Growth and development, Internal Medicine FAQ

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Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Can Infection Occur During Childhood?

Questions related to hepatitis B carriers? I recently learned that my husband is a carrier of hepatitis B after his health check-up. I would like to understand if, apart from vertical transmission at birth, it is possible for someone to become a carrier through infection during t...


Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: The transmission routes of hepatitis B primarily involve the entry of blood or bodily fluids infected with the hepatitis B virus into the human body through the skin or mucous membranes, particularly into the bloodstream. Hepatitis B can also be transmitted from mother to ...

[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Can Infection Occur During Childhood?


Why Am I Not Growing Taller? Understanding Growth Patterns in Teens

I feel like I'm not growing taller? Hello doctor, I am 13 years old. Ever since I experienced a growth spurt of about 10 centimeters when I was 11, I have been growing less and less. I usually go to bed at 9:30, but sometimes I stay up past 10. I regularly exercise, drink mi...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding height, it is likely influenced by genetics. I suggest you first consider your parents' heights. You can calculate the average height by adding your father's height and mother's height, then dividing by two, and adding about 10 centimeters; this co...

[Read More] Why Am I Not Growing Taller? Understanding Growth Patterns in Teens


Understanding Temporary Swelling and Pain in Fingers and Toes

Swelling, pain, and itching in the fingers and toes? Hello doctor, recently I have been experiencing intermittent swelling, pain, and itching in my fingers and toes, which occurs in various locations. Sometimes there is slight swelling, but usually, the symptoms subside or improv...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your symptoms, it may be related to growth and development or trauma. However, it is important to monitor for any accompanying symptoms, such as joint pain or skin rashes. If these related phenomena persist, it is advisable to consult a family medicine specialist....

[Read More] Understanding Temporary Swelling and Pain in Fingers and Toes


Why Can't I Grow a Beard? Understanding Facial Hair Growth Issues

Unable to grow facial hair? The entire body is almost hairless except for a few sparse hairs, which stop growing once they reach a certain length. One could say there is virtually no facial hair, and the chin is completely smooth. I have tried trimming with scissors, but there ha...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the length of facial hair varies from person to person, and not everyone has long facial hair, which is not necessarily abnormal. It is important to observe other characteristics, including the presence of secondary sexual characteristics such as an Adam's apple, whet...

[Read More] Why Can't I Grow a Beard? Understanding Facial Hair Growth Issues


Understanding Weight Loss: Thyroid vs. Gastrointestinal Issues

Gastrointestinal issues / Thyroid problems Recently, I have noticed a slight trend of weight loss. Last September, I weighed 60 kg, and by last Tuesday, I was around 58 kg, and this morning, I weighed 57 kg. Although my eating habits have changed (I no longer eat late-night snack...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your symptom description, it does not appear to be typical hyperthyroidism symptoms. As for the weight change, a fluctuation of one kilogram is not significant and may not indicate actual weight loss. The increased hunger you are experiencing is likely due to bein...

[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss: Thyroid vs. Gastrointestinal Issues


Understanding Endocrine Issues: Impact on Growth and Development

Endocrine issues? Dear Doctor, I developed an Adam's apple in the second semester of fifth grade, and during sixth grade, I started to grow pubic and underarm hair. I began masturbating in the second semester of fourth grade, and I'm unsure if this has contributed to th...


Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Precocious puberty can affect height, but it seems you have not reached that level yet. A height of 163 cm in the first year of junior high school is still considered acceptable.

[Read More] Understanding Endocrine Issues: Impact on Growth and Development


Is It Safe for Teens to Use Weight Loss Supplements? Expert Advice

Weight loss I am 15 years old and want to lose weight. I've always wanted to take weight loss pills, but I'm afraid they might affect my growth and development. However, someone recommended Herbalife to me, saying it is a natural product that can be consumed by all age ...


Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello, A-Rong: At the age of 15, which is still a developmental stage, weight loss should ideally be conducted under the guidance of a physician and a nutritionist to avoid improper dieting that could affect growth and health. Herbalife is a meal replacement approved by the Depar...

[Read More] Is It Safe for Teens to Use Weight Loss Supplements? Expert Advice


Signs of Growth Delay: When to Seek Endocrine Evaluation for Your Child

If a child grows less than four centimeters per year from birth to puberty, it is likely a sign of slow growth? "From birth to puberty, if a child grows less than four centimeters per year, it may indicate signs of slow growth. Therefore, if parents notice this phenomenon in...


Dr. Zeng Fenyu Reply:
Hello, we are very pleased to receive your inquiry. Regarding your question, individual growth and development can vary significantly from person to person. We recommend that you consult with an endocrinologist for a detailed evaluation.

[Read More] Signs of Growth Delay: When to Seek Endocrine Evaluation for Your Child


Can Emotional Stress Impact Growth and Development?

If someone has long-term emotional concerns, can it affect their growth and development? I feel like it's not my exercise level or lack of nutrition; it seems like my mental state is affecting my endocrine system. Is this possible, and how can I address it?


Dr. Zeng Fenyu Reply:
It is recommended that you visit the metabolism and endocrinology clinic for an examination. If necessary, you may also consult the psychiatry clinic to alleviate psychological stress.

[Read More] Can Emotional Stress Impact Growth and Development?