Understanding Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Medication Effects and Specialist Care
Autoimmune diseases Hello, Doctor. I have autoimmune thyroiditis and have been taking Methimazole and Levothyroxine for over a year. I also have a history of hyperthyroidism, but I have not taken medication for over 15 years. My thyroid-related indices have been regularly monitor...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Here is my response: 1. There should be no correlation between the use of Dexamethasone, Bilastine, and thyroid dysfunction. 2. If there have been recent abnormalities in thyroid function but no symptoms are present, you may consider asking your...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Medication Effects and Specialist Care
Can Zinc Deficiency Cause Atrophic Glossitis and Oral Candidiasis?
The issue of zinc? I have been experiencing intermittent pain in my tongue and have consulted both an otolaryngologist and an oral surgeon, but they could not determine the cause. The pain has been fluctuating, and recently the affected area has started to resemble the image at t...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, zinc deficiency can indeed cause the symptoms you described. However, it is still uncertain whether your symptoms are truly due to zinc deficiency. It may be advisable to go to a larger hospital to test your blood zinc levels for confirmation. In Taiwan, the likelihood of ...[Read More] Can Zinc Deficiency Cause Atrophic Glossitis and Oral Candidiasis?
Understanding Atypia in Thyroid Nodules: Inflammation and Concerns
Thyroid nodule inflammation Hello Doctor: I recently had an ultrasound that revealed a 1.2 cm nodule. After a biopsy, the report indicated atypia. When I heard this, my mind went blank. The doctor mentioned that the ultrasound suggested the nodule appeared to be inflamed with ble...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: The interpretation of thyroid nodule biopsy results needs to be combined with ultrasound imaging findings, medical history, family history, physical examination, blood reports, etc., for a comprehensive assessment. Based on your letter, it is difficult to provide an answer...[Read More] Understanding Atypia in Thyroid Nodules: Inflammation and Concerns
Understanding Low Heart Rate: Implications and When to Seek Cardiology Care
Bradycardia Hello, doctor. In my health check report, there is an electrocardiogram (ECG) finding suggestive of myocardial ischemia, and my hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration are low. My smartwatch has a heart rate monitoring function, and a normal resting h...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding bradycardia, it should be assessed in conjunction with your symptoms. If you have no discomfort, there may not be a need to address it. A low hemoglobin level and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration indicate anemia, and the specific hemoglobin level should ...[Read More] Understanding Low Heart Rate: Implications and When to Seek Cardiology Care
Understanding Moles and Melanoma: When to Seek Dermatological Advice
Mole, Melanoma Hello Dr. Hong, First of all, I would like to thank you for your attentive care and for answering patients' questions. I really appreciate it! I have a question: due to a family history of melanoma, I recently noticed a mole on my scrotum while showering. It...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the image you provided, it appears to be a common melanocytic nevus. The main thing to do is to monitor whether it continues to grow or if you experience any discomfort. If there are no changes, you can continue to observe it without the need for laser treatment. ...[Read More] Understanding Moles and Melanoma: When to Seek Dermatological Advice
Understanding Eye Symptoms After Late Nights: What You Need to Know
Questions about issues after staying up late? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you two questions. The first one is that when I looked in the mirror while showering this morning, I noticed some red streaks and a slight yellow tint around the edges of my eyes. I'm concerned ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your photo, your sclera primarily shows blood vessels and is not indicative of jaundice, although it appears slightly cloudy. However, this is not jaundice. Considering the situation you described, it is likely a physiological change caused by staying up late. The...[Read More] Understanding Eye Symptoms After Late Nights: What You Need to Know
Understanding Recurring Red Spots on Ankles: Possible Causes and Insights
Red spots on the feet? Hello Doctor: I have multiple sclerosis (MS), and for the past two months, I have been experiencing red spots on the inner sides of my ankles. They are not painful or itchy, but they recur and tend to spread upward. Sometimes, red spots also appear on the d...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. The small red spots on your skin may also be due to ruptured blood vessels or vasculitis. A dermatologist should provide you with their preliminary suspected diagnosis. As for the ANA of 160 and RF of 32.8, these are just initial screening indic...[Read More] Understanding Recurring Red Spots on Ankles: Possible Causes and Insights
Understanding Chest Tightness in Hyperthyroidism and Heart Valve Issues
Chest tightness issue? Hello, doctor. I am a patient with hyperthyroidism, and my only symptom is a slightly elevated heart rate. I also have a problem with mitral valve insufficiency. Currently, I am controlling my hyperthyroidism with medication, taking two tablets of methimazo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, there could indeed be many causes for your breathing difficulties. It may be necessary to check your blood oxygen levels; if they are abnormal, you should be cautious about potential lung or heart issues. However, since you have already undergone...[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness in Hyperthyroidism and Heart Valve Issues
Understanding COVID-19 PCR Results and Managing Symptoms at Home
Positive Rapid Test for COVID-19 (Continuation 2) Hello Dr. Hong, I am a patient who tested positive for COVID-19 through a rapid test and PCR a few days ago. Since my diagnosis on June 14, I have experienced some changes in my health. Yesterday, June 19, I retested for PCR, and ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The value you mentioned should refer to the CT value of the PCR test. A higher CT value indicates a lower viral load, and values above 30 suggest that there is almost no transmissibility. Therefore, based on your values, it seems you are gradually recovering. 2. If ...[Read More] Understanding COVID-19 PCR Results and Managing Symptoms at Home
Understanding Ear Cleaning Risks: When to Seek Medical Attention
Issues related to ear cleaning? Hello, doctor. Earlier today, my ear was itchy, so I used a thin cotton swab to clean it. While my mom was talking to me, I accidentally pushed it a bit deeper and felt like I might have touched the inner wall of my ear. When I took it out, I saw s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, there are no specific symptoms, and since your hearing is not impaired, it is likely that your eardrum has not been damaged. If you are still concerned and would like to have an examination, you can visit an otolaryngology clinic, as they have th...[Read More] Understanding Ear Cleaning Risks: When to Seek Medical Attention
Impact of Nighttime Sports Drinks on Kidney Health and Diabetes Risk
Kidney problems, diabetes? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask you a few questions. For the past two years, I have been drinking half a bottle (about 300cc) of sports drinks, such as Fun or Pocari Sweat, every night before bed. Recently, I have been feeling unwell frequently. 1....
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: 1. There is no research confirming whether drinking sugary beverages at night or during the day makes a difference, but consuming them before bedtime may lead to weight gain more easily, and being overweight increases the risk of diabetes. 2. It is unlikely, but if there i...[Read More] Impact of Nighttime Sports Drinks on Kidney Health and Diabetes Risk
Persistent Fever for Four Weeks: Unraveling the Mystery of Undiagnosed Infection
Fever has persisted for nearly four weeks, and no definitive source of infection has been identified? In the first week, there was a persistent elevated body temperature at night, with an ear temperature above 37.5°C. In the second week, after four to five days, the body temperat...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms and test results you described, the most likely diagnosis is infectious mononucleosis caused by CMV infection. To confirm the diagnosis, a measurement of the viral load of CMV in the blood can be performed. Generally, the condition tends to resolve on...[Read More] Persistent Fever for Four Weeks: Unraveling the Mystery of Undiagnosed Infection
Understanding Pain from Submandibular Lymphadenitis: Duration and Relief
Severe pain in the submandibular lymph nodes? Hello, I have been experiencing pain only in the area below my ear, and it has gotten so severe that I was awakened by the pain the night after it started, making it difficult to sleep. The day before, I visited a clinic, and they dia...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Lymphangitis often takes nearly a week to show significant improvement! Additionally, be cautious about the possibility of a bacterial infection or mumps, among other conditions. Medication can help alleviate pain, but it may not provide immediate relief. It is recommended...[Read More] Understanding Pain from Submandibular Lymphadenitis: Duration and Relief
Understanding Candida Infections: Persistent Anal Itching Solutions
Candida parapsilosis Hello, doctor. I have been troubled by this issue for several months. The symptom is "anal itching." I have seen several proctologists who prescribed various topical medications, but the itching persists. Eventually, after consulting all the doctors...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, you have already used topical ointments but are still experiencing significant itching. At this point, you may consider using oral antihistamines for relief. Regarding the diagnosis, theoretically, given your age, it shouldn't be that diffic...[Read More] Understanding Candida Infections: Persistent Anal Itching Solutions
Managing Kidney Health: Concerns About Sports Drinks and Weight Loss
Kidney issues, diabetes, and constitutional problems? Hello Dr. Lee, I would like to ask you: 1. For the past two years, I have been drinking sports drinks mixed with some water from morning till night. I have developed a habit of drinking sports drinks, and drinking plain water ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Drinking plain water may cause nausea; it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist. Long-term consumption of sugary beverages can increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. If there has been a significant recent weight loss, i...[Read More] Managing Kidney Health: Concerns About Sports Drinks and Weight Loss
Understanding Fever Fluctuations and Muscle Pain: Key Insights for Parents
Fever that subsides and then returns? On the morning of June 14, I had a fever with an ear temperature of 38.2 degrees Celsius. After taking an over-the-counter medication, my temperature remained between 37.5 and 38 degrees until around 5 PM on June 14, when it dropped to 36.5 d...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is indeed important to first be cautious about COVID-19, so I recommend doing another PCR test for confirmation. Additionally, you can also perform a PCR test for influenza. Any respiratory infection, including COVID-19, influenza, or other vi...[Read More] Understanding Fever Fluctuations and Muscle Pain: Key Insights for Parents
Can Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis Receive the COVID-19 Vaccine?
Can patients with ankylosing spondylitis receive the COVID-19 vaccine? Hello Dr. Gao: I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I have been treated with a cancer-killing medication for about two years, and my inflammatory markers have now decreased to normal levels. I have stop...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Based on your current medication status, you are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. If you are continuously taking anti-cancer medication, a temporary adjustment to your medication may be necessary. This message is from the Allergy, Immun...[Read More] Can Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis Receive the COVID-19 Vaccine?
Understanding Positive COVID-19 Rapid Test Results: A Patient's Journey
Positive result on COVID-19 rapid test? Hello Dr. Hong, I hope you are well. I am currently in Indonesia and am using online consultation services, so I hope to gain a deeper understanding. I apologize for the lengthy description. Starting on the evening of June 12, I experienc...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the symptoms you described, they do resemble a COVID-19 infection; however, we still need to wait for the PCR test for confirmation. The medications you mentioned are all for relieving cold symptoms. If you have cold symptoms, they can be taken to alleviate discom...[Read More] Understanding Positive COVID-19 Rapid Test Results: A Patient's Journey
Managing COVID-19 Symptoms: Insights on Treatment and Recovery
Positive rapid test for COVID-19 (continued) Hello Dr. Hong, I am the patient who asked a question yesterday. The PCR results just came out... it is positive for SARS-CoV-2 with RdRp gene: 23.25 and SARS-CoV-2 ORF 1ab: 21.26. Today is the second day, and I continue to take "...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Currently, there are indeed several medications available for use, including for mild cases. However, for high-risk patients, such as those over 65 years of age, monoclonal antibodies can be used for patients with declining oxygen levels. For more severe cases, remdesivir can be ...[Read More] Managing COVID-19 Symptoms: Insights on Treatment and Recovery
Persistent Breathing Difficulty and Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Shortness of breath lasting for one week + occasional chest pain? On the night of the 7th, I woke up feeling somewhat short of breath for no apparent reason. I hadn't turned on the air conditioning, and it didn't feel like my usual nasal congestion, but it felt very obs...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that the main issue is subjective discomfort. I recommend measuring your body temperature and blood oxygen levels. If both are normal, you may consider an outpatient consultation. It could be caused by anemia or hyperthyroidism. However,...[Read More] Persistent Breathing Difficulty and Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Help