Understanding Symptoms: When to See a Specialist for Your Health Issues
Do I need to get checked? Which department should I visit? Doctor, I have been experiencing the following symptoms recently: 1. There is a black area in the middle of my tongue, approximately 2 cm long and 1 cm wide, which is not a growth but a discoloration compared to a normal ...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
Western medicine generally does not study the tongue's appearance and coating, while Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes that a thick tongue coating is mostly related to gastrointestinal disorders and, to a lesser extent, kidney diseases, which can also lead to halit...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: When to See a Specialist for Your Health Issues
Which Specialist Should You See for Your Child's Hand Symptoms?
Which specialty clinic should I visit? Dear Dr. Tseng, My daughter’s right ring finger suddenly became red, swollen, and numb about half a month ago. After about two days, all her other fingers also became red and swollen, and sometimes they would go completely numb, but then it...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello! According to online descriptions, Raynaud's phenomenon should be considered, and it could also be caused by vascular circulation disorders or vasculitis. If symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a rheumatologist. Currently, the most important measures are to ke...[Read More] Which Specialist Should You See for Your Child's Hand Symptoms?
Understanding Mild Rheumatism: What It Means for Your Health
What is referred to as mild rheumatism by physicians? Hello Dr. Tseng, I would like to ask a few questions. My mother experienced swelling in her left ankle last November and has been feeling constant soreness, so she went to the hospital for treatment. She saw an orthopedic spec...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello! 1. Mild rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis are not the same. Rheumatoid arthritis is a specific disease with its own unique symptoms and diagnostic criteria, while rheumatism is a general term for soreness in the muscles, bones, joints, and ligaments. 2. According to the ...[Read More] Understanding Mild Rheumatism: What It Means for Your Health
Understanding Excessive Sweating: When to Seek Medical Advice
Questions about excessive sweating? Hello, Director Yang: I have a question to ask you. I sweat excessively all over my body, not just from my hands. I regularly play tennis and basketball, and my friends often suggest that I see a doctor due to how much I sweat. Even when I clim...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
It is more likely related to constitution; however, some endocrine disorders (such as thyroid or pituitary gland diseases) can also cause excessive sweating. It may be advisable to consult a specialist in metabolic disorders.[Read More] Understanding Excessive Sweating: When to Seek Medical Advice
Chronic Back Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Relief
Chronic back pain Hello, I would like to describe my symptoms and kindly ask for your assistance. Thank you! 1. I have been experiencing chronic back pain for at least a year. During severe episodes, I am unable to lie down for long periods, and sleeping for more than seven hour...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello! An ANA titer of 1:320, along with joint redness and swelling, fatigue, and even fever, suggests the need to consider connective tissue diseases, particularly lupus erythematosus. However, based on the information provided by the online user, a definitive diagnosis cannot b...[Read More] Chronic Back Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Relief
Understanding Thyroid Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Stress Management
Is there a problem with the thyroid? I was previously diagnosed with hyperthyroidism at a general clinic, but after taking medication for a while at the China Medical University, my test results returned to normal. Recently, I've been feeling very irritable, and my eyes seem...
Dr. Yu Xianneng Reply:
Please come for a follow-up examination at the outpatient clinic or on Tuesday afternoon at the Metabolism Department.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Stress Management
Understanding Hand Numbness: Causes and Concerns for Patients
excuse me? Hello, doctor. I've been experiencing frequent hand numbness lately. For example, I often wake up at night because my hands are numb, and after riding a motorcycle for about 10 minutes, my hands also start to feel numb. Additionally, I sometimes feel a warm sensat...
Dr. Zhong Yuxun Reply:
Gentleman online user: Please visit the neurology department for consultation! Best wishes for health from Dr. Chung Yu-Hsuan at Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Hand Numbness: Causes and Concerns for Patients
Understanding Your Symptoms: Fatigue, Pain, and Possible Conditions
Could you please provide more context or specify your question? Doctor, I have been feeling very fatigued lately, experiencing body aches, dizziness, and headaches. I have many spots on my body that resemble acne, especially on my hands. Additionally, I have pain in my stomach an...
Dr. Xie Yonghui Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, Based on the symptoms you described, including fatigue, body aches, dizziness, headaches (pain in the stomach and kidney areas), these are generally considered non-specific symptoms in the medical field. Many conditions can present with these symptoms, but it is ...[Read More] Understanding Your Symptoms: Fatigue, Pain, and Possible Conditions
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Weight Loss and Thyroid Concerns
I would like to ask the doctor a question? Dear Dr. Yang, I currently have mitral valve prolapse, but around April and May of this year, I suddenly lost weight and dropped to about 35 kilograms, whereas I was around 37 kilograms before. I am 163 centimeters tall, so there is qui...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include palpitations, tremors, sweating, anxiety, and weight loss. In fact, the symptoms of hyperthyroidism are quite similar to those caused by anxiety. However, the severity of symptoms caused by hyperthyroidism is usually greater than that caused by...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Weight Loss and Thyroid Concerns
Understanding Unexplained Joint Pain and Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Unexplained and non-specific swelling and pain? Hello, Doctor: I have been troubled by a problem for over six years. I often experience unexplained redness, swelling, and pain in the soles of my feet, toes, knees, or joints in my hands, accompanied by a slight fever and fatigue. ...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it seems like you may have arthritis. I recommend scheduling an appointment with a rheumatologist. Best wishes for your health from Dr. Cheng Shu-Hsing at Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Joint Pain and Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Septic Shock: Causes, Symptoms, and Concerns
Sepsis Dear Dr. Cheng, I have some questions regarding my father's recent passing (May 3, 2023) due to septic shock. My father was participating in a self-improvement activity (traveling in Hualien and Taitung) when he developed high fever, cough, vomiting, and fainting whi...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing Reply:
Hello! Septic shock is caused by bacterial infections. Our hospital handles thousands of cases each year, with nearly one-third resulting in death, and the mortality rate is higher among the elderly. Many types of bacteria can cause septic shock, such as Escherichia coli, Klebsie...[Read More] Understanding Septic Shock: Causes, Symptoms, and Concerns
Understanding Occasional Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns
Occasional chest pain? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing strange chest pain intermittently for the past two to three years. During these episodes, I feel a stabbing pain in my chest when I move my body, and it is often accompanied by a sharp pain between my ribs when I push ...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
Hello! Chest pain can be caused by various conditions related to the heart (such as angina, myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, myocarditis, and pericarditis), lungs and associated structures (such as pneumothorax, pneumonia with pleuritis, rib fractures, pulmonary embolism, and ...[Read More] Understanding Occasional Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns
Managing Recurrent Fever: Causes and Solutions for Persistent Symptoms
Recurrent fever I sought medical attention due to a cold and fever (with a temperature of 104°F). I received an injection and took medication, which improved my symptoms. However, after taking the medication, my fever subsides, but after a while, it returns (to 99.9°F). I am unsu...
Dr. Chen Changxun Reply:
Recurrent fever requires careful attention to its severity, duration, and frequency. If someone experiences recurrent fever for several months, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Various causes such as infections, autoimmune diseases, hematological disorders, and tumors c...[Read More] Managing Recurrent Fever: Causes and Solutions for Persistent Symptoms
Understanding Pulmonary Infiltration: Differences from Pulmonary Edema
Pulmonary infiltration What is pulmonary infiltration and how does it differ from pulmonary edema?
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
Hello! Pulmonary infiltration is a term used in the interpretation of chest X-rays. When we identify abnormalities in a chest X-ray, we describe them accordingly. If the changes are typical, such as calcification, fibrosis, cavitation, or consolidation, we can immediately apply t...[Read More] Understanding Pulmonary Infiltration: Differences from Pulmonary Edema
Can Diabetes Cause Nose and Hand Damage Without Treatment?
Can diabetes cause the nose to decay? I've heard that diabetic feet can become ulcerated. If someone has diabetes and doesn't see a doctor, will their hands also become ulcerated? Will their nose also become ulcerated, and will they definitely go blind?
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions: 1. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder primarily caused by defects in the secretion of insulin from the pancreatic β-cells, leading to an insufficient amount of insulin or inadequate action of insulin, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels....[Read More] Can Diabetes Cause Nose and Hand Damage Without Treatment?
Understanding Essential Hypertension: Symptoms, Management, and Recovery Potential
Hypertension I have essential hypertension, and my blood pressure is usually around 155/85 without medication. I discovered my hypertension about a year and a half ago after my military service. My lifestyle is quite irregular; I often stay up until 3 or 4 AM and smoke, as I have...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
1. In addition to medication management, hypertension requires regular exercise, smoking cessation, and a reduction in dietary fats and high-sodium foods. Increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables and maintaining a normal lifestyle are essential for keeping blood pressure wi...[Read More] Understanding Essential Hypertension: Symptoms, Management, and Recovery Potential
Morning Swelling: Possible Causes and Kidney Function Concerns
Upon waking up in the morning, I noticed that my entire body was swollen? My mother-in-law is fifty years old and has a family history of diabetes. She is currently taking medication to manage her condition. Over the past year, she has experienced swelling in her hands, feet, and...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question: (1) There are many causes of edema, generally classified as follows: 1. Increased venous pressure: including congestive heart failure, valvular heart disease, pericardial disease, renal disorders, endocrine diseases, vascular disorders, etc. 2...[Read More] Morning Swelling: Possible Causes and Kidney Function Concerns
Understanding Coccydynia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Coccydynia (tailbone pain) Hello, two years ago I experienced wrist pain and consulted a doctor, suspecting rheumatoid arthritis (I live in Australia). I intermittently took medication and stopped, and one day it suddenly got better. Recently, I have been waking up in the morning...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Isolated wrist pain cannot be diagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is important to observe for symptoms such as swelling, pain, and heat in the joints (arthritis), particularly if multiple joints are involved symmetrically in both hands. If morning stiffness in the hand joi...[Read More] Understanding Coccydynia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Vasculitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Vasculitis Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing issues with redness, swelling, and heat in my knees for the past two years. Sometimes it affects my feet, toes, and heels, and occasionally my fingers, mostly around the joints. Typically, the symptoms resolve on their own within...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Vasculitis refers to the inflammation of blood vessels, leading to damage and resulting in tissue hypoxia, with no definitive cause of onset. Diagnostic evaluations may include medical history, X-rays, blood tests, biopsies, and angiography. Blood tests typically include complete...[Read More] Understanding Vasculitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Can Asthma Patients with Hypoxia Qualify for Disability Certification?
Hypoxia in patients with asthma? As an asthma patient, a friend suggested that I see a pulmonologist and ask for a certification to apply for a disability handbook. In addition to my asthma, I also have issues with hypoxia and symptoms of mitral valve deficiency and regurgitation...
Dr. Xie Weiming Reply:
Hello, Ms. Jan: Whether asthma qualifies for a disability certificate depends on its severity. The disability certificate has detailed regulations and classifications, and it is necessary to conduct pulmonary function tests and blood oxygen measurements to determine eligibility. ...[Read More] Can Asthma Patients with Hypoxia Qualify for Disability Certification?