Understanding Chest Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
Thoracic issues Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been feeling a tightness in my chest at times, as if something is pressing down. What could be the possible causes of this? Thank you for your response.
Dr. Chen Junwei Reply:
Hello: The symptoms of chest tightness and pain can have different possible causes depending on the presence of other related conditions (such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, etc.) or risk factors (such as advanced age, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, etc.). Com...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
How to Differentiate Between Stomach, Heart, Liver, and Lung Discomfort?
Hello doctor, I would like to inquire about issues related to the chest and abdominal cavity..? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask how to determine whether my discomfort is related to my stomach, heart, liver, or lungs? Are there any specific differences in the discomfort associa...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, discomfort in the xiphoid process area is generally not related to heart, lung, or gastrointestinal diseases. Most cases improve with rest and heat application. It is recommended to follow up with a thoracic specialist for further examination and...[Read More] How to Differentiate Between Stomach, Heart, Liver, and Lung Discomfort?
Fast Heart Rate and Cold Extremities: What Could Be the Cause?
What disease is characterized by a rapid heartbeat and cold extremities? Hello doctor, my father had surgery for hyperthyroidism several decades ago. He does not smoke or drink, and his blood pressure is considered normal, but his cholesterol levels are slightly elevated. His BMI...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
After thyroid hyperactivity surgery, there is a possibility of recurrence or developing hypothyroidism. The symptoms you described do not clearly align with manifestations of thyroid dysfunction; however, it is advisable to undergo an examination. You may consider consulting with...[Read More] Fast Heart Rate and Cold Extremities: What Could Be the Cause?
Understanding Sudden Fainting: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Fainting or syncope? Hello, I would like to ask if sudden fainting with loss of consciousness and vomiting (at the age of 53) could be caused by heatstroke? There are no significant discomfort symptoms, and there is no family history of hereditary heart disease or hypertension. I...
Dr. Wang Fangli Reply:
Heat stroke is less likely to cause vomiting; you may consider consulting a neurologist for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Fainting: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Effective Treatments for Leg Edema Caused by Prolonged Standing
Regarding foot edema? If your mother is experiencing calf edema due to prolonged standing at work, it is important to address the issue appropriately. She should consider consulting a specialist in vascular medicine or a phlebologist, as they focus on conditions related to veins,...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, edema is the swelling of soft tissues due to an abnormal increase in interstitial fluid. Common diagnoses include localized venous obstruction, lymphedema, as well as systemic conditions such as heart failure, nephrotic syndrome, hypoalbuminem...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Leg Edema Caused by Prolonged Standing
Stroke Complicated by Pneumonia and Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Recovery Chances
Stroke complicated by pneumonia and gastrointestinal bleeding? Hello, Doctor: My uncle had a stroke three weeks ago, complicated by pneumonia, and three days ago he experienced gastrointestinal bleeding and fell into a coma (with a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 7). I would like to ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, after a patient experiences a stroke, in addition to the immediate life-threatening conditions of either hemorrhagic stroke (due to vessel rupture) or ischemic stroke (due to vessel occlusion), other existing conditions such as heart disease, ...[Read More] Stroke Complicated by Pneumonia and Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Recovery Chances
Understanding Red Spots on the Lower Leg: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Erythema on the lower leg? During middle school, I developed small red spots near the outer side of my ankle and close to the hip area, about the size of a fingernail. Initially, they were slightly tender, and over time, the color deepened and became more pronounced, resembling s...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Dear user: Based on your description, it is not possible to determine whether it is lupus erythematosus or erythema nodosum. More information is needed to diagnose these conditions. I recommend that you consult a dermatologist or a rheumatologist. Please do not ignore this issue....[Read More] Understanding Red Spots on the Lower Leg: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Arrhythmia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Arrhythmia Hello Doctor: I have a condition of arrhythmia, and recently my heart rate has been slower at times. Could this be related to stress? What are the symptoms and treatments for arrhythmia? Thank you.
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
There are many types of arrhythmias, and not all of them require treatment! It is recommended that you consult a family medicine or cardiology physician for an evaluation to determine if treatment is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Managing Hyperthyroidism: Medication Choices and Surgical Considerations
Methimazole and New Mazole are both medications used to treat hyperthyroidism. Methimazole is a thionamide that inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones, while New Mazole is a newer formulation that may have similar effects. It is important Dear Dr. Yang, I hope this message f...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
The cited option is a choice; however, the use of iodine preparations before surgery is not widely adopted in Taiwan, and generally, the original antithyroid medications continue to be used.[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism: Medication Choices and Surgical Considerations
Understanding Arrhythmia: When to Seek Medical Attention for Heart Issues
Arrhythmia Hello Doctor: I am currently a university student majoring in design, with a height of about 170 cm and a weight of approximately 63-65 kg. I often stay up late and exercise at least once a week (playing softball and basketball). I do not smoke or drink alcohol, but I ...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello, Xiao Hei: Incomplete right bundle branch block and sinus bradycardia generally do not require treatment unless there are significant symptoms, such as chest discomfort, chest pain, or shortness of breath. It is advisable to visit a cardiologist at the hospital.[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmia: When to Seek Medical Attention for Heart Issues
Can Stress Cause Sudden Blood Sugar Spikes? Understanding Diabetes Risks
Stress Doctor, may I ask if stress can cause blood sugar levels to spike suddenly? My usual fasting blood sugar is around 97 to 106, but I started feeling unwell yesterday, and this morning, after fasting for 8 hours, my blood sugar was 131. Two hours after eating, it was 184. Wh...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: Increased stress can lead to heightened activity of the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in increased secretion of catecholamines such as norepinephrine and epinephrine. This can cause elevated blood sugar levels, increased glycogenolysis in the liver and muscles, hei...[Read More] Can Stress Cause Sudden Blood Sugar Spikes? Understanding Diabetes Risks
Can Leukemia Patients Receive Flu and Pneumonia Vaccines Together?
excuse me? Can leukemia patients receive the seasonal influenza vaccine and the pneumococcal vaccine? If so, should they be administered separately? Do the injection sites need to be different?
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Patients with leukemia can receive both the seasonal influenza vaccine and the pneumococcal vaccine simultaneously. The pneumococcal vaccine should be administered according to vaccination guidelines: high-risk groups include individuals aged 65 and older, patients with heart dis...[Read More] Can Leukemia Patients Receive Flu and Pneumonia Vaccines Together?
Could Nerve Issues Be Causing My Chest Pain and Breathing Problems?
Could it be caused by a neurological issue? If I say that I have pain on the left side of my chest, the pain doesn't last for a specific duration, but it can last for 5 to 10 minutes. Sometimes it occurs after I cry, and after a while, I calm down. However, I notice that my ...
Dr. Zhong Weisheng Reply:
Based on your description, it would be better to refer you for a detailed examination by a pulmonologist. Of course, if the patient is female, do not overlook the importance of a breast health check as well. Dr. Chung Wei-Sheng.[Read More] Could Nerve Issues Be Causing My Chest Pain and Breathing Problems?
Understanding Hyperthyroidism and Its Impact on Pregnancy Plans
If you are planning to conceive, is a TSH level of 0.03 in hyperthyroidism considered too low? Hello Dr. Yang, I have been dealing with hyperthyroidism for about two years. I have undergone ultrasound examinations, which showed no abnormalities. I have blood tests and receive hyp...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
A TSH level of 0.03 with other thyroid functions being normal indicates a potential clinical hyperthyroidism, which may suggest that it is still necessary to take antithyroid medications. Taking antithyroid medications is not absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy, although ...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism and Its Impact on Pregnancy Plans
Understanding Unexplained Body Discomfort: Symptoms and Concerns
I feel very unwell all over? Hello, I'm sorry to disturb you. I've been experiencing ongoing health issues for the past few months. My weight has dropped dramatically, losing 20 kilograms from October last year to April this year, without any changes in my diet or exerc...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Weight loss and increased heart rate are most commonly associated with hyperthyroidism, which can be confirmed or ruled out through blood tests.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Body Discomfort: Symptoms and Concerns
Unexplained Weakness and Dizziness: Seeking Answers for Mysterious Symptoms
Strange symptoms I experience sudden onset of generalized weakness, hunger, dizziness, and increased heart rate (sometimes accompanied by sweating). I visited Hsu Chuan Hospital, but they couldn't determine the cause. It's not hypoglycemia (my fasting blood sugar is sti...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Fasting blood glucose levels that are not low do not necessarily indicate that blood glucose levels are not low when symptoms are present. Blood glucose should be tested when there are clear symptoms for diagnosis. The paroxysmal hypokalemic paralysis you mentioned does not compl...[Read More] Unexplained Weakness and Dizziness: Seeking Answers for Mysterious Symptoms
How to Lower Your Cholesterol Levels: Tips for a Healthier Heart
Cholesterol is particularly high? A few days ago, my health check report came back, and my cholesterol level is particularly high at 238. The other values, such as uric acid, creatinine, and liver function tests, are all normal. What can I do to lower this level?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Cholesterol levels should ideally be kept below 200 mg/dL. Initially, dietary modifications can be implemented to manage this. It is advisable to reduce the intake of egg yolks, meats, seafood, animal fats, fatty meats, and whole milk. After 3 to 6 months, a follow-up should be c...[Read More] How to Lower Your Cholesterol Levels: Tips for a Healthier Heart
Could This Be a Heart Issue? Understanding Unusual Chest Pain Symptoms
Could this be a heart problem? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a question. Yesterday, while I was sleeping, I woke up halfway through the night feeling somewhat unwell. I then started to burp continuously and felt my intestines moving, along with passing gas. However, there wa...
Dr. Sun Yizhen Reply:
Hello: For issues related to this matter, I recommend that you schedule an appointment with a cardiology clinic. Thank you![Read More] Could This Be a Heart Issue? Understanding Unusual Chest Pain Symptoms
Understanding Rapid Breathing: Causes and Concerns in Adults
Shortness of breath? My father had a cold a week ago and saw a doctor, but since then his breathing has been very loud and his respiratory rate has increased significantly. He often feels fatigued and goes to bed early every night. Whether asleep or awake, his breathing sounds ra...
Dr. Chen Junwei Reply:
Hello: There is no sensation of difficulty in breathing, but the breathing sounds wheezy, which may indicate bronchial wheezing. Chronic bronchitis, mild pulmonary edema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) could present with such symptoms. However, nasal congestion, ...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Breathing: Causes and Concerns in Adults
Understanding Sudden Weakness, Dizziness, and Rapid Heartbeat Symptoms
Generalized weakness, dizziness, and increased heart rate? Hello, doctor! Sometimes I experience sudden weakness throughout my body, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, occasional night sweats, and sudden hunger. Initially, I thought it was due to low blood sugar. However, the most sever...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: Postprandial hypoglycemia is a possible condition that can occur. First, it is important to test and determine if hypoglycemia can be detected during episodes. It may be necessary to have a glucose meter or go to a laboratory for immediate blood glucose testing. There is a...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Weakness, Dizziness, and Rapid Heartbeat Symptoms