Understanding Sleep Issues: Concerns for Your Aging Parent's Health
Sleep issues Hello Dr. Hong, I am inquiring on behalf of my mother, who is currently 58 years old and works a regular job from Monday to Friday. I am quite worried that she is overexerting herself. While she doesn't seem to have issues at work, during her off hours, she ofte...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, it seems that your mother may have sleep apnea, likely of mild to moderate severity. It is recommended to wait until the pandemic situation stabilizes before scheduling a sleep study at a major hospital's sleep clinic to identify the underlying cau...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Issues: Concerns for Your Aging Parent's Health
Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Chest tightness or pain? I am a high school student. On the afternoon of August 9th, I moved some heavy objects, after which I started experiencing severe pressure and pain in my left shoulder and chest. I immediately stopped all activities, and then I began to have some difficul...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems you may have a shoulder muscle strain. It is recommended to rest the injured area, apply some heat, and consider using topical anti-inflammatory ointments or patches, or taking anti-inflammatory medications such as acetaminophen. If the ...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Orange-Red Toilet Water: Causes and Concerns
The toilet water is orange-red? Hello Doctor, I occasionally notice that the toilet water is slightly orange-red after having a bowel movement (the stool itself is not discolored). However, the orange-red color doesn't seem to resemble blood. I would like to ask if this is r...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the orange color could be due to bleeding or food coloring. It may not be possible to determine the exact cause solely based on description and observation; it is best to conduct another fecal occult blood test to confirm whether there is bleeding. As for colorectal cancer...[Read More] Understanding Orange-Red Toilet Water: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Symptoms After Toenail Injury: Fever, Dizziness, and More
After injuring the toenail, a series of symptoms began, primarily persistent low-grade fever and dizziness? Hello, Doctor. At the beginning of last month, while on a business trip and staying at a hotel, I accidentally injured my right big toe by pinching it in the door. There wa...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! Generally, a nail injury is unlikely to cause a systemic infection (unless the local wound condition is very poor). Your initial symptoms resemble those of a systemic inflammatory response or infection, but typical infections do not usually last for a month. It would be ad...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms After Toenail Injury: Fever, Dizziness, and More
Understanding Fast Heart Rate: When to Seek Further Metabolic Testing
Tachycardia Hello doctor, I was previously informed that I have a fast heartbeat (for 2-3 years). Recently, I visited a cardiologist, and the test results were normal. The doctor also checked my thyroid and said the values were normal (TSH - 3.120, Free T4 - 1.36, T3 was not test...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If thyroid function is normal, there is no need to visit the endocrinology department for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Fast Heart Rate: When to Seek Further Metabolic Testing
Understanding Vaccine Side Effects: A Case Study on Moderna
Vaccine side effects On July 8, I received the first dose of the Moderna vaccine. On the third day, I experienced some drowsiness but had no other discomfort. However, on August 3, after taking a shower and combing my hair, I suddenly found it difficult to raise both arms, my hea...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, after taking a shower, vasodilation combined with raising both arms can lead to a decrease in the blood return to the heart, causing an increase in heart rate. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and should not be directly related to the vaccine. As for the soreness ...[Read More] Understanding Vaccine Side Effects: A Case Study on Moderna
Post-Vaccine Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention After Moderna Shot
After receiving the vaccine Hello, doctor. I recently received my second dose of the Moderna vaccine, and it's been five days. I've been experiencing pain in my arm when making larger movements (like shaking, running, or jumping), but it doesn't hurt much when I&#x...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, these are indeed possible phenomena after vaccination. It is not necessarily required to seek medical attention immediately unless the symptoms become more pronounced or if you experience fever, chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or other co...[Read More] Post-Vaccine Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention After Moderna Shot
Understanding Systemic Heat: Symptoms and Causes in Asthma Patients
Generalized heat sensation? The patient is a young girl with asthma and a history of frequent bronchitis. Her normal body temperature typically ranges from 36 to 36.7 degrees Celsius, not exceeding 37 degrees. However, since early last year, her temperature has been between 37.2 ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, the most likely cause seems to be related to your menstrual cycle. I recommend observing whether you experience this reaction during each menstrual period. If so, you may consider consulting a gynecologist. Another possibility is that recent significa...[Read More] Understanding Systemic Heat: Symptoms and Causes in Asthma Patients
High Platelet Count: Vaccine Considerations and Health Risks
Considerations of Elevated Platelet Count and Vaccination Hello, I have my health check-up every year, and my platelet count has been consistently 50-100 above the recommended range for over 5 years. Currently, there is a reminder regarding thrombocytopenia before vaccination to ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, having elevated platelet levels does not affect the administration of vaccines as long as you do not have any acute illnesses. You can proceed with vaccination. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] High Platelet Count: Vaccine Considerations and Health Risks
Understanding Post-Vaccine Reactions: When to Seek Medical Advice
Post-vaccination issues? Hello Dr. Hong, on July 29th at around 1:40 PM, I received the second dose of the Moderna vaccine. On July 30th at 12:30 AM, my ear temperature was 37.2°C; at 2:20 AM, it was 37.9°C; at 4:30 AM, it was 38.6°C (I took one dose of pain reliever). From 5:00 ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, starting from July 29 at 1:40 PM, experiencing fever, fatigue, and pain within 48 hours is normal. It is advisable to drink plenty of water and rest. If the pain is severe or if the fever is very uncomfortable, you can take a dose of acetaminophen. Symptoms should improve ...[Read More] Understanding Post-Vaccine Reactions: When to Seek Medical Advice
Post-Vaccine Concerns: Is Chest Pain a Sign of Myocarditis?
Post-Vaccination Issues - 2 Thank you, Dr. Hong, for your previous response. I forgot to mention other aspects while feeling unwell. On July 29 at 13:40, I received the second dose of the Moderna vaccine. On July 30 at 17:00, while going out to buy dinner, I experienced some ches...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on the symptoms and timeline you described, it is likely not myocarditis. I recommend getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated. You should seek medical attention only if the symptoms persist for more than 48 hours or if you start feeling increasingly unwell. Thank you fo...[Read More] Post-Vaccine Concerns: Is Chest Pain a Sign of Myocarditis?
Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Occasionally experiencing chest pain? In the past few months, I have been experiencing sudden chest pain that lasts for a second or two. The location of the pain varies; sometimes it is on the left side of my chest, and other times on the right side. I can clearly identify where ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the pain that changes with posture or massage is more likely to be musculoskeletal pain, typically associated with inflammation of the sternum, ribs, or vertebrae. I'm not sure if you've recently experienced poor posture, lifted heavy o...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Post-AZ Vaccine: Mild Thigh Pain and Blood Circulation Concerns
Mild intermittent pain in the front of the left thigh three to four days after receiving the AZ vaccine? Hello, I received the AZ vaccine 3-4 days ago, and since last night, I've been experiencing intermittent pain in the front of my left thigh. The pain does not persist con...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your timeline and symptoms, it is likely that the foot pain is not caused by a thrombus related to the AZ vaccine. However, if the discomfort persists, you may consider consulting an orthopedic or neurology specialist to identify the underlying cause. Thank you fo...[Read More] Post-AZ Vaccine: Mild Thigh Pain and Blood Circulation Concerns
Managing Hyperthyroidism Medications: Concerns About Side Effects and Alternatives
Side effects of hyperthyroidism medications? I have Graves' disease and have been taking PTU for 14 years. In March of this year, I was diagnosed with P-ANCA vasculitis. I stopped taking PTU due to concerns about its side effects. I have previously taken methimazole and carb...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Vasculitis caused by methimazole is less common than that caused by PTU. If radioactive iodine treatment is not acceptable, the only option is to try using methimazole in combination with antihistamines.[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism Medications: Concerns About Side Effects and Alternatives
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Vaccine Considerations for Patients
Mediterranean anemia Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about an internal medicine issue. Six years ago, during my pregnancy, I underwent prenatal check-ups, and the report values were as follows: average red blood cell count 75.7 (reference value 79-99) and hemoglobin 11.9 (refer...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your blood test report, it is possible that you have either thalassemia or iron deficiency anemia. To determine which type it is, further blood tests are necessary. Regarding vaccines, it does not affect the choice of vaccine brand. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Vaccine Considerations for Patients
Understanding Tonsil Inflammation: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Questions about tonsil issues again? Thank you, Dr. Hong, for your previous response. I later visited an otolaryngologist, but the doctor said they didn't see any stones in the area I mentioned. The white appearance is likely due to inflammation, possibly from an injury I ca...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Inflamed tissue appears white due to relatively fewer blood vessels. 2. Due to inflammation, consuming irritating substances can indeed cause discomfort. 3. Typically, recovery takes about 5 to 7 days, but it depends on each individual's immune response. 4. With ...[Read More] Understanding Tonsil Inflammation: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Understanding Tonsil Issues: When to Seek ENT Help and Infection Risks
Tonsil issues, may I ask? Hello, Doctor Hong. Previously, I visited an ENT specialist because I had tonsil stones. The doctor used a tool to press on it and later seemed to suction it out. After lunch today, while brushing my teeth, I noticed a white spot near my tonsils that loo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, tonsil stones, as your doctor described, do not necessarily require any special treatment if there is no discomfort or inflammation. Regarding hepatitis B, it is primarily transmitted through vertical transmission and blood. The risk of infection from bleeding in the mouth...[Read More] Understanding Tonsil Issues: When to Seek ENT Help and Infection Risks
Post-Accident Health Concerns: Vaccine Eligibility and Recovery Insights
Post-accident condition and vaccine issues? I would like to ask about the injuries I sustained from a car accident two years ago, which resulted in liver and spleen lacerations. I did not undergo invasive treatment, but I fractured five ribs and my sternum. Occasionally, I still ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the process of healing at the fracture site and the wound around the knee may lead to fibrosis, which could result in the pulling sensation or pain you mentioned. Theoretically, this should gradually diminish. However, if the pain increases, it is advisable to consult your...[Read More] Post-Accident Health Concerns: Vaccine Eligibility and Recovery Insights
Do Steroids Affect Blood Test Results in Rheumatology Patients?
I would like to inquire if steroids can affect the results of blood tests in immunology and rheumatology? Hello Doctor: In recent months, the joints in my fingers have started to swell and hurt gradually, making it difficult to bend or extend them, and I cannot apply force. The b...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The administration of steroids may only affect certain laboratory results, including white blood cell counts, but it should have minimal impact on the indicators for rheumatic diseases or allergic conditions. I believe your symptoms include bot...[Read More] Do Steroids Affect Blood Test Results in Rheumatology Patients?
Yawning and Jaw Dislocation: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Yawning and Muscle Issues Hello, doctor. I just yawned and was about to sleep, and I'm worried that I might have dislocated my jaw. Although I didn't hear any cracking sound and when I looked in the mirror, my mouth can close properly and isn't misaligned. There&#x...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is normal for a person's face to have slight asymmetry on both sides. As for whether there is a dislocation, you can determine this by checking if it affects the occlusal function, meaning if the mouth can close properly. If there is no issue with closing the mouth...[Read More] Yawning and Jaw Dislocation: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns