Concerns About Possible Animal Bites and Rabies Risk: What to Do?
Infection issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about an incident that happened last Tuesday. While I was riding my motorcycle at a speed of about 30 km/h, I suddenly felt a sharp pain near my right knee. At that moment, I didn't notice anything hitting me, and I don...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Currently, urban areas, including Chiayi City, are not considered rabies-endemic regions, and there have been fewer cases of rabies reported in mountainous areas recently, so the risk is indeed very low. Moreover, without any obvious bite wounds, the likelihood of contracting rab...[Read More] Concerns About Possible Animal Bites and Rabies Risk: What to Do?
Chronic Headaches: Seeking Relief and Solutions for Persistent Pain
Persistent headache I have been experiencing headaches for over a week, from the moment I wake up until I go to sleep, and the pain is increasing throughout the day. The pain is mostly concentrated in the left temple, radiating to my eyes and the back of my head. A few years ago,...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Evelyn: 1. Your condition may be classified as a tension-type headache, although there could be other causes as well. Common scenarios include migraines, cluster headaches, ophthalmic disorders, colds, and headaches induced by medications or foods. A physical examinatio...[Read More] Chronic Headaches: Seeking Relief and Solutions for Persistent Pain
Severe Headaches and Anemia: Understanding Your Symptoms
Headache and anemia? Recently, I've been experiencing sudden headaches at night along with anemia for about three days. The headaches are so intense that it feels like my head is about to explode. It seems to be affecting my eyes as well, as my eyeballs feel a bit painful. I...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Linda: 1. There are many causes of headaches, including migraines, tension-type headaches, cluster headaches, headaches related to head trauma, vascular headaches, non-vascular intracranial headaches, headaches caused by medications or foods, headaches related to non-he...[Read More] Severe Headaches and Anemia: Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Headaches and Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
Headache in the upper right side of the head before and after bowel movements, discomfort in the inner posterior area of the right thigh, and pain in the sole of the right foot? Hello doctor, I work long hours on the computer, am unmarried, and my blood pressure is around 80-90/5...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you follow up with a neurologist.[Read More] Understanding Headaches and Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Concerns for Women
The abdomen feels bloated, and there is discomfort when pressure is applied? Recently, I have noticed a sudden increase in the size of my lower abdomen. As a naturally slim woman, my abdomen used to be completely flat, but now it appears more protruded than before. When I have a ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Lulu: 1. There are many causes of abdominal discomfort, which are often difficult to diagnose. However, symptoms that physicians tend to pay more attention to include fever and chills, nausea and vomiting, belching and bloating, dry mouth, diarrhea, hematemesis, melena, we...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Concerns for Women
Understanding Blood Sugar Management: Key Indicators and Medication Options
Blood sugar issues Dear Dr. Hsiao, I have been concerned about my blood sugar levels since my health check in 2004, when my fasting blood glucose was 100. I only started medication in 2015, but my weight has decreased from my usual 38 kg to the current 34 kg. For the past ten ye...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. For a 65-year-old diabetic patient, a fasting blood glucose level of 155 mg/dL, a postprandial blood glucose level of 169 mg/dL two hours after eating, and a hemoglobin A1c level of 6.6% indicate relatively good control. Each of these values carries individual significance, an...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Management: Key Indicators and Medication Options
Understanding Low Hemoglobin: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Low hemoglobin levels? Hello doctor, I would like to ask if my health check report shows only low hemoglobin and a fast heart rate, while everything else is normal, does that indicate anemia? I have been experiencing frequent dizziness and severe headaches when I get up in the mo...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you consult with a "Hematology" (Hematology-Oncology) specialist to determine if further examination and treatment are necessary.[Read More] Understanding Low Hemoglobin: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Exploring Endocrine Issues Behind Chronic Fatigue and Sleepiness
Is it related to endocrinology? Hello, Doctor. The patient has been experiencing long-term fatigue, excessive daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating. After being diagnosed with sleep apnea and undergoing surgery, the sleep oxygen levels have improved significantly. Fati...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, online user: The endocrine system has many functions, and its glands are located from the pituitary gland to various parts of the body. If you need further examination, it is recommended to visit an endocrinology specialty clinic for a resolution. Thank you for your questi...[Read More] Exploring Endocrine Issues Behind Chronic Fatigue and Sleepiness
Understanding Low Blood Pressure: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions
Blood pressure issues? I consulted with my family doctor previously, and during a blood pressure check, I was told that I have low blood pressure. Recently, due to academic stress, I have been experiencing dizziness, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing. I also have severe h...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. It is recommended that you see a cardiologist for a personal evaluation to determine if there are any cardiovascular issues. If no cardiovascular problems are found, regular exercise can improve cardiopulmonary function, which may help with your concerns. 2. SYS refers ...[Read More] Understanding Low Blood Pressure: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions
Which Medical Specialty Should I See for My Symptoms?
Which department should I see for my condition? Hello Dr. Tseng: I have been experiencing frequent episodes of overheating, which I am already very sensitive to. When it gets severe, I have intense headaches and excessive sweating. I have also been dealing with anxiety for two ye...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, user: I recommend that you consult a neurologist for autonomic nervous system testing and thyroid endocrine system evaluation. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should I See for My Symptoms?
Assessing HIV Infection Risks After Sexual Encounter: What You Need to Know
Risk of HIV Infection On July 4th of this year, I had sexual relations with a sex worker in Thailand. The encounter involved unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse. During oral sex, she briefly held my glans, seemingly after I released pre-ejaculate fluid, and the...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the relationship between unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse with subsequent symptoms of low-grade fever and headache: A: 1. For unprotected oral sex, it is important to check if the partner has any oral diseases or bleeding. ...[Read More] Assessing HIV Infection Risks After Sexual Encounter: What You Need to Know
Understanding Hypertension: Symptoms and Health Risks Explained
Hypertension issues Hello, Dr. Lee! Recently, I have been experiencing chest tightness, nausea, pain at the back of my temples (with a feeling of tightness), and bloating. I visited the clinic today, and my blood pressure was 179/87. Am I considered part of the hypertensive popul...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Some of your symptoms may indeed be caused by hypertension, such as headaches. However, the connection between bloating and hypertension is relatively minor. Here is a basic concept for your reference: the diagnosis of hypertension should be based on multiple measurements ...[Read More] Understanding Hypertension: Symptoms and Health Risks Explained
Should You Seek Medical Attention for Chronic Low Cholesterol?
Long-term low cholesterol levels? Is it necessary to seek medical attention for long-term low cholesterol levels? Since middle school through college, my cholesterol has continuously decreased with age, and my total cholesterol is now only 88. I have poor physical strength, easil...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, internet user: A certain level of cholesterol must be present in the body to maintain normal structure and function. Individuals with trauma, surgery, cancer, or infections, as well as those with liver, gallbladder, or gastrointestinal diseases, may have a reduced ability ...[Read More] Should You Seek Medical Attention for Chronic Low Cholesterol?
Coughing and Bending: Why Do I Experience Temple Pain?
Coughing and bending down can cause headaches near the temples? Coughing and bending down causes pain near the temples, but there is no pain when not coughing or bending down. What could be the reason?
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If you are experiencing persistent headaches, it is recommended to visit a hospital's neurology department to identify the underlying cause. Thank you for your message![Read More] Coughing and Bending: Why Do I Experience Temple Pain?
Understanding the Connection Between Hypertension and Meniere's Disease
Hypertension disease Hello, I would like to ask if there is a connection between hypertension and Meniere's disease? Recently, my father went to the emergency room with a blood pressure spike of 200, experiencing severe headaches and occasional dizziness, especially in hot w...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello, Xiaoxin: Your father's blood pressure has reached 200 mmHg, along with severe headaches, dizziness, and symptoms of cardiac hypertrophy. This should not be taken lightly; he must seek medical attention regularly, and the physician will arrange for examinations and pre...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Hypertension and Meniere's Disease
Can Cryptococcus Infections Be Treated Before Symptoms Appear?
Cryptococcal infection... should treatment wait until symptoms develop? Hello Dr. Liao, I would like to ask... If a person is infected with Cryptococcus, must we wait for the disease to manifest before treatment can begin? If there are no symptoms, does it mean that the Cryptococ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. First, refer to an article from Han Ming Hospital titled "Cryptococcal Pneumonia: A Concern for Immunocompromised Individuals." A. Unlike typical pneumonia, which presents with symptoms such as fever, cough, and sputum production, patients with crypto...[Read More] Can Cryptococcus Infections Be Treated Before Symptoms Appear?
Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Kidney Health Concerns Explained
This morning, I went for a fasting blood draw, and after receiving the report, I found that my creatinine level is slightly elevated? Hello Doctor, I submitted a question on October 12 (you replied on October 14). This morning, I went to the lab on an empty stomach to have blood ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello: Creatinine: 1.24, GFR 81.64, which is not far from the normal value of 90. This could be due to fluctuations in test results or may indicate a mild issue. It is recommended to have regular blood tests for monitoring (every six months or annually). Additionally, regarding y...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Kidney Health Concerns Explained
Can You Get Rabies from a Cat Bite? Understanding the Risks
Can you get rabies? A family member was bitten by a stray cat in July while living in Taichung City. Recently, she has been experiencing coughing and nasal congestion. Could this be considered a precursor to rabies? How likely is it to contract the disease at this stage? I am ext...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello Larry: The incubation period for rabies can vary from 1 to 3 months, occasionally being shorter than 7 days, and can last up to 7 years. Initial symptoms include fever, sore throat, chills, malaise, loss of appetite, vomiting, difficulty breathing, coughing, weakness, anxie...[Read More] Can You Get Rabies from a Cat Bite? Understanding the Risks
Understanding Inflammatory Back Pain: Is It Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask about my HLA-B27 test result, which came back negative, but X-rays show inflammation in my sacroiliac joints, approximately at a grade two level on both sides. Does this mean I have ankylosing spondylitis? Although I don...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, online user: Inflammation of the bilateral sacroiliac joints, combined with morning lower back pain, raises the suspicion of ankylosing spondylitis. However, it is still recommended to consult a rheumatologist for further differential diagnosis. Most patients experience li...[Read More] Understanding Inflammatory Back Pain: Is It Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding the Cancer Risks and Benefits of Baked Foods and Coffee
Food-related Hello Dr. Hsiao, I often come across many articles stating that baked foods can cause cancer. However, baked items like coffee are commonly consumed by humans, and there are numerous studies suggesting that coffee has anti-cancer properties and is beneficial in many ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. According to the current medical literature, the consumption of coffee is neither recommended nor discouraged. There are reports indicating that drinking coffee may reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, alcoholic liver cirrhosis, gout, and diab...[Read More] Understanding the Cancer Risks and Benefits of Baked Foods and Coffee