Understanding Low Neutrophil Levels: Causes and Implications
Blood Test Report - Neutrophils Hello Dr. Hong, I received your response yesterday and would like to ask about other blood values being normal, but with a decreasing neutrophil count. What could typically cause this issue? Does it need to be addressed? In previous health checks, ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, neutrophils are related to the body's resistance to bacterial infections. Common causes of neutrophil reduction include medications, viral infections, and decreased immunity, among others. However, it can also be a normal physiological variation. Therefore, it is esse...[Read More] Understanding Low Neutrophil Levels: Causes and Implications
Understanding Steroid Usage: Timing, Dosage, and Long-Term Effects
Steroid Administration Timing and Dosage Instructions Hello, Doctor. I have systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and I am currently 31 years old. I was diagnosed with SLE and began treatment about 9 years ago. Currently, I take the following medications daily: 200 mg of Plaquenil (...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Regarding steroids, some physicians recommend taking three pills in the morning and two in the afternoon. However, sometimes when I am busier or wake up later, I take three pills within 30 minutes to 1 hour after a me...[Read More] Understanding Steroid Usage: Timing, Dosage, and Long-Term Effects
Understanding Eyelid Twitching: Causes, Concerns, and Remedies
The right eyelid feels a bit tight? Hello, Doctor. I visited an ophthalmologist because I felt a sudden tight twitch in my right eyelid last night. However, the doctor said my eyes are normal, and there is no issue with excessive eye strain, although they do appear a bit dry. He ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the cause of your eyelid twitching is likely due to fatigue, resulting in neuromuscular spasms rather than a neurological disorder. It is recommended to give your eyes more rest, avoid staying up late, and manage stress, which should help improve...[Read More] Understanding Eyelid Twitching: Causes, Concerns, and Remedies
Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Concerns
Fasting blood glucose is higher than postprandial blood glucose? Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing elevated fasting blood glucose levels during my annual company health check-ups, typically ranging from 97 to 102 mg/dL. My postprandial blood glucose levels are around 92 to ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Your fasting blood glucose level is elevated, which can generally be classified as Impaired Fasting Glucose (IFG). It is recommended to choose a diet with a low Glycemic Index (GI) to help improve your elevated fasting blood glucose levels. Additionally, you may want to co...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Oral Candidiasis: Risks and Precautions During Pregnancy
Oral candidiasis Hello, doctor. I noticed some mold spots in the sink while rinsing my mouth tonight. If some of it splashed into my mouth and I only spit it out, then rinsed my mouth after a few minutes, is there a risk of developing a Candida infection? I read online that adult...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, there are many molds in the environment, including the presence of Candida. Most molds coexist peacefully with humans and do not cause infections. For example, Candida infections typically occur when the body's immune system is compromised, such as in cases of diabete...[Read More] Understanding Oral Candidiasis: Risks and Precautions During Pregnancy
Understanding Decreased Red and White Blood Cell Counts: What You Need to Know
Decreased red and white blood cell counts? Hello, I recently reviewed my previous health check-up reports from high school and college, which were three years apart. My red blood cell count decreased from 4.17 to 3.97, and my white blood cell count also decreased from 6.9 to 5.5....
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your blood test report, both the changes in white blood cells and red blood cells are within normal ranges, so there is no need to worry about anemia. It is important to also consider the hemoglobin (Hb) levels to assess this condition. To improve your overall hea...[Read More] Understanding Decreased Red and White Blood Cell Counts: What You Need to Know
Understanding Unexplained Symptoms: Which Specialist Should You See?
My mother is 52 years old and has various health issues. Which specialty should she see? Symptoms: I often smell irritating odors (such as sewage, chili pepper, and a cool scent) and sometimes cough due to these irritating smells. Occasionally, it feels like I am being burned by ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If there are abnormal skin sensations, one can consult a neurologist. If there are abnormalities in the sense of smell, one can see an otolaryngologist.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Symptoms: Which Specialist Should You See?
Can Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Trigger Folliculitis and Eczema?
Does Hashimoto's thyroiditis trigger folliculitis? Hello, doctor. I have a question regarding the topic. I have always had poor skin condition, which is dry and prone to itching. Before my thyroid issues were diagnosed, I was already prone to eczema, and I have been on thyro...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Hyperthyroidism may be associated with dermatitis, and antithyroid medications themselves can also induce dermatitis.[Read More] Can Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Trigger Folliculitis and Eczema?
Understanding Moles: When to Worry About Skin Changes
Issues related to moles? Hello Dr. Hong, thank you very much for your continued patience in answering my questions. I have a mole on the side of my nose that has been with me since childhood. It is dark, slightly raised, and measures only 0.3 mm. Recently, I became aware of repor...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. If there has been no change, the likelihood of it becoming malignant is low. 2. Yes, it can change due to skin stretching. Based on your picture, although the edges are slightly irregular, the outline is clear, and it should just be an ordinary mole. I recommend that...[Read More] Understanding Moles: When to Worry About Skin Changes
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Eye Symptoms and Immune System Links
Clinical symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis? Hello, Doctor. I started experiencing dryness and pain in my left eye last year. Last month, I suddenly developed scleral inflammation in my right eye. After seeking medical attention, my condition is currently stable. Recently, I underw...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, dry eyes and scleritis can be manifestations of rheumatic diseases affecting the eyes. If the rheumatoid factor is positive, it is recommended to consult a rheumatologist for differential diagnosis, as rheumatic diseases do not always present initially with joint symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Eye Symptoms and Immune System Links
Concerns About STDs After Potential Exposure: What You Need to Know
Concerned about sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? Hello, Doctor: About four months ago, I met a male friend online and during our encounter, he inserted his finger into my anus while he masturbated and ejaculated (he was wearing a condom; I asked him afterward, and he said ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, acne is usually caused by hot and humid weather leading to folliculitis, which should not be related to sexually transmitted infections. However, the process you described may indeed indicate unsafe sexual behavior. It would be advisable to consi...[Read More] Concerns About STDs After Potential Exposure: What You Need to Know
Understanding Throat Discomfort: Causes of Mucus, Blood, and Inflammation
Throat or nasal area? Hello Doctor, when I woke up this morning and brushed my teeth, I initially felt something like phlegm on my tongue, but it wasn't thick; it felt more like saliva because my throat felt a bit clogged. There was a slight yellowish tint, and after using m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if the blood is coming from the lungs, it is usually a shade of iron-gray or rust color. Based on your description, if it is primarily bright red or dark red, it is more likely not originating from the lungs but rather from the mouth or throat. This could be due to issues ...[Read More] Understanding Throat Discomfort: Causes of Mucus, Blood, and Inflammation
Post-Vaccine Medication: Can I Take Ibuprofen for Fever?
Vaccine administration? Hello Dr. Hong, I would like to ask about the medication I received after getting vaccinated this morning. The clinic gave me three yellow tablets of Paracetamol, and I have already taken one. However, I suddenly remembered that a few days ago, another doc...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, Paracetamol, commonly known as acetaminophen, has a slightly weaker analgesic effect. However, due to its lower side effects, it can be used first for fever or pain. Ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has a stronger analgesic and antipyretic effect,...[Read More] Post-Vaccine Medication: Can I Take Ibuprofen for Fever?
Understanding Vaccine Side Effects: Is Your Discomfort Normal After AZ Shot?
Vaccine side effects Hello Doctor, this morning my family took me to get the AZ vaccine, and there happened to be some leftover doses. After noon, I suddenly felt very cold and then developed a fever. I took a pill and slept until around 5 PM, waking up sweating. My body temperat...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, a low-grade fever and back pain are very common side effects of the AZ vaccine, so there is no need to worry unless the fever or pain becomes unbearable. In that case, you may consider taking acetaminophen. The vitamin supplements will not have any impact, so you can conti...[Read More] Understanding Vaccine Side Effects: Is Your Discomfort Normal After AZ Shot?
Post-Vaccine Concerns: Understanding Blood Clots and Skin Changes
Post-vaccination issues? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about something. I just received my vaccine around 8 PM, and when I got home, I saw the information they sent back regarding possible symptoms, which mentioned blood clots. I happened to notice two dark spots on my calf, ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the photos you provided, it appears to be a mole. The blood clots associated with the AZ vaccine refer to thrombosis within blood vessels, which commonly presents with symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and chest pain, rather than skin lesions like black spots...[Read More] Post-Vaccine Concerns: Understanding Blood Clots and Skin Changes
Understanding Your Rheumatology Blood Test Results: What Do They Mean?
Results of rheumatologic and immunological blood tests? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing muscle soreness in my shoulders, neck, and arms for three months, along with pain in my index finger. Orthopedic rehabilitation has not shown significant improvement. I had blood tests ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, this test value can only indicate a possible presence of lupus erythematosus; however, a diagnosis requires clinical symptoms combined with other values to calculate an overall score for confirmation. Based on your description, the symptoms do not seem to align closely, so...[Read More] Understanding Your Rheumatology Blood Test Results: What Do They Mean?
Understanding Fatty Liver: Is My Elevated GPT Level a Concern?
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that? Doctor, I apologize for bothering you again. Since I couldn't make it to my appointment today, I called the clinic to inquire about my blood test results. My B.C. liver and fetal protein levels are normal, so is my GPT of 52 (&l...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your condition, it appears to be caused by fatty liver disease, likely with mild inflammation. An ultrasound can only detect fibrosis, while determining whether cells have died requires a biopsy for microscopic examination. However, the presence of fibrosis can su...[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver: Is My Elevated GPT Level a Concern?
Concerns About Virus Exposure Before Vaccination: What You Need to Know
Please ask your question? I apologize for bothering you, Doctor. I went to the ENT specialist this morning because I had an itchy ear and a runny nose. After the examination, I mentioned that I would be getting vaccinated this week, and the doctor prescribed me some antipyretics....
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if you and those around you are all wearing masks and you have not had direct contact, your risk of infection should be very low. It is recommended to drink plenty of water and get ample rest without excessive anxiety. You only need to get tested if you develop cold sympto...[Read More] Concerns About Virus Exposure Before Vaccination: What You Need to Know
Concerns About COVID-19 Transmission After a Medical Visit
Transmission of COVID-19 Hello, I had dinner around 5:30 PM after class, and it seems that I got a fishbone stuck in my throat from eating tilapia. My family took me to an ENT clinic, and after the examination, the doctor said he couldn't see anything, suggesting that I migh...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, after a COVID-19 infection, there is typically an incubation period of about 2 to 7 days, so it is unlikely for symptoms to appear that quickly. In the clinic, if everyone is wearing masks and there is no direct contact, the risk of transmission should be very low. It is r...[Read More] Concerns About COVID-19 Transmission After a Medical Visit
Understanding Excessive Body Hair in Young Women: When to Seek Endocrine Help
Endocrine? Hello doctor, I am a 20-year-old woman with no significant medical history, but I have noticed that I seem to have an abnormal amount of body hair. The hair on my arms is almost 2 centimeters long, and some of the hair on my legs is coarse and even curly, resembling ma...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: It is advisable for you to consult a professional physician. Don't be afraid to see a doctor.[Read More] Understanding Excessive Body Hair in Young Women: When to Seek Endocrine Help