Understanding Muscle Strain vs. Rhabdomyolysis: When to Seek Medical Help
Rhabdomyolysis Hello, doctor. On August 14, I strained my neck muscles due to chiropractic treatment. Recently, I came across symptoms and causes of rhabdomyolysis online, so I have some questions for you. My muscle strain has not healed yet. When I initially got injured, I felt ...
Dr. Yao Quan Reply:
Hello, I apologize for the delayed response to your email. Rhabdomyolysis is a condition caused by damage to skeletal muscle, leading to the destruction and dissolution of muscle cells, which release myoglobin and other harmful substances into the bloodstream, affecting the entir...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Strain vs. Rhabdomyolysis: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Restrictive Lung Disease: What You Need to Know
Restrictive lung disease Hello, I recently underwent a health check-up (organized by my company with a hospital conducting the examinations at the workplace), which included a computerized pulmonary function test. The results indicated "restrictive impairment." During t...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
If you usually do not have any specific symptoms, you should consider undergoing a re-evaluation to check if there was an error in the previous examination. Even if restrictive lung function impairment is confirmed, further testing is necessary to determine the underlying cause. ...[Read More] Understanding Restrictive Lung Disease: What You Need to Know
Understanding Elevated Lymphocyte Levels: What It Means for Your Health
Elevated lymphocyte count? Dr. Liao, I apologize for the interruption. During my recent health check-up, one of my lymphocyte counts was slightly higher than the normal range. Could you please advise what this might indicate regarding my health? Thank you for taking the time to r...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. We know that blood consists of blood cells and plasma, with blood cells being divided into red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Among these, white blood cells include granulocytes and lymphocytes. The normal range of white blood cells is approxima...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Lymphocyte Levels: What It Means for Your Health
Understanding Splenomegaly: What It Means for Your Health
What is splenomegaly? I apologize! I would like to ask about my previous health check report, which indicated splenomegaly. I want to understand what this means and which organ might be affected. Thank you! Also, I had a health examination before, and the report showed elevated...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hello, Xiao Qiang: Splenomegaly is one of the abnormalities commonly detected in ultrasound and health check-ups. Common causes of splenomegaly include hereditary anemia and liver diseases. Elevated alkaline phosphatase levels may indicate issues related to the gastrointestinal t...[Read More] Understanding Splenomegaly: What It Means for Your Health
Understanding High Uric Acid and Its Impact on Kidney Health
Uric acid issues? Hello, doctor: Recently, I participated in a health check-up, and the abdominal ultrasound report indicated that there are bilateral renal calcifications (gouty nephropathy) in the kidneys. The examining physician mentioned that this is caused by my elevated uri...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
1. Bilateral renal calcifications may indicate the presence of calcified spots within the kidneys, which cannot be confirmed by other means. This could be one of the manifestations of hyperuricemia or hypercalcemia. If accompanied by hyperuricemia, controlling uric acid levels (t...[Read More] Understanding High Uric Acid and Its Impact on Kidney Health
Understanding Severe Palpitations: Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
Severe palpitations? I apologize! Recently, I often feel a strong heartbeat, and there is a sharp pain in the lower left side of my heart. The back of my head also experiences sharp pain that is truly unbearable. It has been occurring more frequently. In previous health check-ups...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
You need to go to the hospital for an electrocardiogram (ECG) and thyroid function tests.[Read More] Understanding Severe Palpitations: Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
Understanding Persistent Proteinuria: Causes, Risks, and Next Steps
Persistent proteinuria reaching + + +? Hello Dr. Yao, I apologize for bothering you, but I would like to ask for your advice. I have noticed persistent bubbles in my urine for a long time. Since I haven't felt any abnormalities or discomfort, I haven't paid much attent...
Dr. Yao Quan Reply:
Ms. Yang: Hello. Your urine test shows + + protein, and further quantitative urine protein testing is necessary, and possibly a biopsy to determine the cause or pathological type. As you mentioned in your letter, a biopsy must be considered; if a biopsy is not performed, we will ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Proteinuria: Causes, Risks, and Next Steps
Differentiating Plummer's Disease from Thyroiditis: A Patient's Guide
Plummer's disease and thyroiditis? How can I differentiate between thyroiditis and Plummer's disease? I discovered I had thyroid enlargement during a health check-up. In late May, I visited a doctor who tested my FT4 levels and said they were normal. An ultrasound indic...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Thyroid nodules associated with hyperthyroidism (Plummer's disease) can generally be treated with radioactive iodine or surgery. If the patient is unwilling to accept these options, medication treatment is also a viable alternative.[Read More] Differentiating Plummer's Disease from Thyroiditis: A Patient's Guide
Managing High Cholesterol with a Low Body Weight: Dietary Tips
Underweight but with high cholesterol? Hello, Director Hsiao: I recently found out from my health check-up that my cholesterol level is high (237). However, I am 162 cm tall and weigh 46 kg, which is underweight. I usually enjoy snacks and eggs. Could you please advise me on what...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question. 1. Your weight is 46 kg, height is 162 cm, and your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 17.5 kg/m². According to the Department of Health's recommended ideal BMI range of 18.5-23.9, you are indeed underweight. However, being underweight does not nec...[Read More] Managing High Cholesterol with a Low Body Weight: Dietary Tips
Managing Low Insulin Levels: Dietary Tips for Better Health
What dietary considerations should be taken into account for low insulin levels? This year, my health check-up results were mostly normal, but my insulin levels were below the normal range (I don't remember the exact value). My doctor told me that this is not a concern and t...
Dr. Shi Guangzhong Reply:
A low insulin level indicates that your insulin sensitivity is good, and generally, individuals with this condition are less likely to develop diabetes. However, diagnosing diabetes still requires blood glucose testing; insulin concentration alone cannot be used for diagnosis. Fo...[Read More] Managing Low Insulin Levels: Dietary Tips for Better Health
Understanding Pulmonary Edema: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks
Pulmonary edema Hello Doctor: I have a question to ask. A relative of mine recently passed away abroad. The day before his death, he experienced chest tightness and pain, but it subsided after about ten minutes. The next morning, he felt pain again, but in the afternoon, he passe...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Xiao Jun: Hello, first of all, I would like to clarify that "pulmonary edema" and "hemothorax" are not the same! "Pulmonary edema" in medical terms refers to the abnormal accumulation of fluid within the lung parenchyma, while "hemothorax" ...[Read More] Understanding Pulmonary Edema: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks
Is Low Uric Acid a Concern? Understanding Risks During Pregnancy
Is having low uric acid a problem? Hello, our organization recently provided health check-ups for employees, and the result for the uric acid test was 1.9 mg/dL. I understand that high uric acid levels can pose risks such as gout, but are there issues with low levels as well? I a...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Pregnant women: Uric acid is primarily produced from the metabolism of purine-rich foods (such as legumes, organ meats, and seafood). Low uric acid levels may indicate insufficient intake of purine-rich foods, rapid renal metabolism, or imbalanced nutrient intake. Therefore, it i...[Read More] Is Low Uric Acid a Concern? Understanding Risks During Pregnancy
Am I Dying? Understanding Unexplained Symptoms and Seeking Help
Am I going to die soon? Doctor, my symptoms are quite strange... 1. When I walk, I feel unsteady... I can't tell if it's my head or my body that's shaking... 2. It feels like something is jumping in my chest, which is very uncomfortable. 3. My chest has been hurtin...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
For those who are unsure of what to do: Based on your description of the condition, it seems to involve a wide range of issues. However, I recommend starting with a visit to a cardiologist, followed by a consultation with a psychiatrist, so that your symptoms and physical manifes...[Read More] Am I Dying? Understanding Unexplained Symptoms and Seeking Help
Understanding Unexplained Symptoms: Seeking Answers for Mysterious Health Issues
Unexplained symptoms Hello Dr. Liao, I would like to consult you about a personal issue that has been troubling me for a long time. This peculiar phenomenon has been present since middle school, and I have not pursued further examination to verify it. During this period, I have...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, 1. Regarding the intermittent, systemic discomfort and sensation of vibrations you mentioned, it is likely related to a mental or psychological condition. Our psychiatric specialists are highly experienced, and I recommend that you visit our outpatient clinic for...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Symptoms: Seeking Answers for Mysterious Health Issues
Understanding Chronic Dry Heaving: When to Seek Medical Help
Prolonged episodes of dry heaving? Hello! I am a 16-year-old high school student, 165 cm tall and weighing 72 kg. For the past 6 to 8 months, I have been experiencing headaches and nausea with dry heaving (approximately 3 to 5 times a week). My daily routine is relatively normal,...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hello, Miss Meow: Long-term symptoms of headaches, nausea, and dry heaving can have various causes, including gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disorders, anorexia, and neurological problems. Therefore, please consult a family medicine clinic first.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Dry Heaving: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Low Neutrophils and High Eosinophils: What It Means for Your Health
Low neutrophil count and high eosinophil count? Hello, I recently had a health check-up and the results showed a white blood cell count of 5.52 (normal), neutrophils at 43.50% (normal range: 45.0-75.0%, slightly low), and eosinophils at 6.00% (normal range: >5.0%, slightly hig...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hello, Xiao Liang: The white blood cell count is 552/cumm with slightly low neutrophils and a slight increase in eosinophils. There is a possibility of a viral infection, so please follow up with the hematology or infectious disease department.[Read More] Understanding Low Neutrophils and High Eosinophils: What It Means for Your Health
Understanding High Cholesterol: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
High cholesterol Height 157 cm, weight 50 kg. In recent years, I have undergone three health check-ups. The first one was two years ago, where my cholesterol level was 257. Last September, I had another check-up due to feeling unwell, and my cholesterol was 255. I suspect that th...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
If cholesterol levels remain above 240 mg/dL despite dietary control, medication therapy should be considered.[Read More] Understanding High Cholesterol: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Essential Health Checks for High Blood Sugar: What Tests to Consider
Health check-up If my father has never had a health check-up but has experienced high blood sugar levels, what tests should he undergo?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
You can arrange for a blood glucose test at the hospital outpatient department, and the National Health Insurance Administration's adult health check also includes a blood glucose testing item.[Read More] Essential Health Checks for High Blood Sugar: What Tests to Consider
Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Causes and Solutions for Young Women
Elevated creatinine levels in the kidneys? I went for a health check-up. I'm a 24-year-old woman, and my creatinine level is elevated at 2.10. My urea and uric acid levels are normal. I don't have high blood pressure or diabetes. What should I do? Are there any methods ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Recheck to confirm if elevated. 2. If elevated, first check for proteinuria in the urine. 3. If proteinuria is present, collect a 24-hour urine sample. 4. Arrange for a renal ultrasound. 5. If the above findings are confirmed, a kidney biopsy may be necessary.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Causes and Solutions for Young Women
Can a Cold Affect Thyroid Hormone Levels? Understanding T4 Results
Can a cold affect thyroid hormones? Hello Doctor: I am a 27-year-old woman. I had a health check-up on January 12 of this year, and the result showed that my T4 level was 23, which is significantly above the normal range. However, I had a cold at the time of the test. I searched ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
A cold should not have a significant impact on thyroid function. If T4 levels are markedly elevated, it is advisable to recheck TSH levels. If TSH is significantly decreased, it can further confirm the presence of hyperthyroidism.[Read More] Can a Cold Affect Thyroid Hormone Levels? Understanding T4 Results