Managing Antibiotic Treatment for Elderly Patients with Multiple Health Issues
Antibiotics Hello Dr. Tsai: My grandfather had a lot of bacteria in his sputum and urine cultures during his hospitalization. He was treated with third-generation antibiotics and also received steroids. Within a week of discharge, he developed a fever again. Is it effective to us...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
The physician must assess the clinical symptoms and, in conjunction with the results of bacterial cultures, determine which antibiotic to use based on the clinical presentation and the culture results.[Read More] Managing Antibiotic Treatment for Elderly Patients with Multiple Health Issues
Managing Hyperthyroidism: Should You Stop Inderal When Trying to Conceive?
Thyroid gland Hyperthyroidism is being treated with Inderal three times a day, and the heart rate is approximately 110-125 beats per minute. If you are considering pregnancy, should you stop the medication? If you stop the medication and experience an increased heart rate, are th...
Dr. Lü Jing Reply:
Hello: It is best to first control hyperthyroidism to normal levels, ideally with a lower dosage of medication. Using Propylthiouracil is preferable. If the heart rate is still too high, taking Inderal is possible for pregnancy, but it is advisable to discontinue the medication d...[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism: Should You Stop Inderal When Trying to Conceive?
Understanding the Connection Between Stomach Issues and Breathing Difficulties
Heavy feeling in the stomach and difficulty breathing? I recently wrote to you about my issues with stomach pain and bloating. I visited Mackay Memorial Hospital, where the doctor prescribed me medication for bloating and gastric relief, but it hasn't been very effective. My...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
First, consult a general internist or gastroenterologist to arrange for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to check for gastroesophageal reflux disease and Helicobacter pylori infection. Additionally, see a general internist or family medicine specialist to arrange for a chest X...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Stomach Issues and Breathing Difficulties
Unexplained Swelling in Legs: Causes and When to Seek Help
Unexplained edema? Hello, doctor: My mother is currently 51 years old and has a history of hypertension. She has been taking medication regularly to control her blood pressure. However, for the past two weeks, she has been experiencing swelling in both legs, and when pressed, the...
Dr. Yang Zhongwei Reply:
Hello! The main causes of bilateral leg edema include the following: 1. Renal origin: This includes nephrotic syndrome and chronic kidney failure. Urinalysis should be performed to check for proteinuria, and blood tests to assess kidney function are necessary. 2. Hepatic origin: ...[Read More] Unexplained Swelling in Legs: Causes and When to Seek Help
Is Drinking Red Wine Before Bed Safe for Seniors with Health Issues?
Is drinking a little red wine before bed harmful? Dear Doctor: My mother is 60 years old and has been having difficulty sleeping for the past two years. When necessary, she takes sleeping pills to help her sleep. Recently, she has been drinking a small glass of red wine (about 20...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, insomnia combined with arrhythmia is not well managed by using alcohol as a sleep aid. It is recommended to consult both a cardiologist and a psychiatrist, as a physician can adjust medications and treatments more safely. Thank you![Read More] Is Drinking Red Wine Before Bed Safe for Seniors with Health Issues?
Understanding Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy: Safety, Risks, and Suitability
Nuclear Medicine Myocardial Perfusion Imaging Dr. Zhong: Hello! May I ask about the purpose of a nuclear medicine myocardial perfusion scan? Will there be any discomfort or side effects? Is it suitable for individuals who are physically weak? What precautions should be taken? Are...
Dr. Zhong Weisheng Reply:
In patients suspected of having coronary artery ischemic heart disease but without typical angina symptoms, non-invasive tests are conducted for screening prior to coronary angiography. These tests include exercise electrocardiography, echocardiography, and nuclear medicine myoca...[Read More] Understanding Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy: Safety, Risks, and Suitability
Understanding Heart Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Attention
What happened? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask you something. I have previously experienced symptoms of palpitations and chest tightness, and even chest pain during exercise. Last Saturday, when I went hiking with relatives, after just a short distance, I felt like my heart wa...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Palpitation refers to the sensation of an irregular heartbeat, rapid heart rate, occasional heart stoppage, or an irregular heartbeat experienced by the patient. Common causes include heart diseases, mental health disorders, physiological responses, medication reactions, or ot...[Read More] Understanding Heart Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Attention
Managing Chronic Kidney Issues and Associated Symptoms: A Guide
Physical weakness Hello doctor, since last week I've been experiencing a dull pain on the right side of my lower back. Due to my history of kidney disease, I've been particularly attentive to my urination, and there haven't been any abnormalities. However, in the p...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Xueqing, Hello. The symptoms of acute pyelonephritis include fever, flank pain, frequent urination, and a burning sensation during urination, and these symptoms may vary from person to person. An ultrasound has revealed the presence of kidney stones; what is the size of the...[Read More] Managing Chronic Kidney Issues and Associated Symptoms: A Guide
Effective Weight Loss Strategies for Obese Diabetic Patients
How can obese patients with diabetes lose weight? I am very concerned about the complications of diabetes, particularly the risk of diabetic retinopathy leading to blindness, which often causes significant psychological stress. Here are my personal details: Age: 23, Height: 175 c...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
It is generally recommended to aim for a weight loss of 0.5 to 1 kilogram per week. Trying to burn 1500 calories through 2 hours of exercise may be quite challenging. There are some issues regarding your metabolic energy calculations; consuming 2300 calories per day is slightly h...[Read More] Effective Weight Loss Strategies for Obese Diabetic Patients
Managing Hyperthyroidism: Understanding Symptoms and Medication Adjustments
Hyperthyroidism Hello Doctor, I have been taking two anti-thyroid medications in the morning and evening, along with one medication to control my heart rate for about two months. On April 12, I had a blood test, and the results (which I will review on May 10) showed free T4 = 0.9...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: Sometimes, thyroid function tests may return to normal, but there are still some symptoms of palpitations. In this case, you can resume taking the medication that initially controlled the sympathetic nervous system. Adjustments to thyroid medication should primarily be bas...[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism: Understanding Symptoms and Medication Adjustments
Managing Heart Medications: Concerns About Deanxit and Arrhythmia
Cardiac medication issues? Hello Dr. Tsai, I have congenital heart disease (valvular insufficiency) and recently discovered an issue with arrhythmia during my check-up. The doctor previously prescribed me Fludiazepam and Propranolol, but aside from side effects like drowsiness ...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Generally, prescribing anxiolytics can alleviate palpitations and stress, which may help resolve issues related to arrhythmia. If you experience side effects such as drowsiness or dizziness, the dosage of Deanxit can be reduced to half. If there is no improvement, please consult ...[Read More] Managing Heart Medications: Concerns About Deanxit and Arrhythmia
Understanding Recurring Headaches: Causes and When to Seek Help
Headache Hello Dr. Chen, Around the evening of February 12th, I suddenly experienced dizziness and headaches. I took some acetaminophen on my own, and I felt much better the next day. However, on February 15th or 16th, similar symptoms reappeared, and I took acetaminophen again,...
Dr. Chen Changxun Reply:
To my friend DRAGON: Headaches have become bothersome in your daily life over the past two days. Various diseases can induce headaches, with upper respiratory infections, fever, and diarrhea being frequent causes. However, if the symptoms persist for more than a month, you should...[Read More] Understanding Recurring Headaches: Causes and When to Seek Help
Persistent Pulsation in the Back of the Head: Causes and Solutions
Pulsating sensation in the back of the head? For the past two to three weeks, I have been feeling my heartbeat and a pulsing sensation in the back of my head while sleeping. I have consulted a cardiologist who mentioned that I have a slight mitral valve prolapse and that I do not...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, "headache" generally refers to pain in the areas above the eyes and ears, as well as the occipital region and the back of the neck. Headaches can be classified into primary headaches and secondary headaches. The former includes migra...[Read More] Persistent Pulsation in the Back of the Head: Causes and Solutions
Managing Hyperthyroidism and Vitiligo: Key Questions and Concerns
Hyperthyroidism with vitiligo? Hello, I have been undergoing treatment for hyperthyroidism for about three months now. Currently, my medication regimen includes: two tablets of antithyroid medication in the morning and evening, and one tablet of a heart rate control medication in...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: Vitiligo and hyperthyroidism are often associated with autoimmune reactions, but vitiligo is not caused by hyperthyroidism, and it is not expected that vitiligo will resolve after the treatment of hyperthyroidism. Interferon treatment for hepatitis C can sometimes lead to ...[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism and Vitiligo: Key Questions and Concerns
Is Ear Discoloration a Sign of Underlying Health Issues?
Ear discoloration Hello doctor, I am asking a question on behalf of my father. He mentioned that the color of his ears has changed to a tar-like color, and he is unsure if this indicates a problem with any organs in his body. He is 52 years old and has been smoking for over 30 ye...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Your father's condition appears to be related to pigmentation issues. It is difficult to assess the full extent of the problem based solely on the information provided. It is recommended to consult a dermatologist for evaluation and examination. The attending physician at Ta...[Read More] Is Ear Discoloration a Sign of Underlying Health Issues?
Understanding Hand Tremors and Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Help
I would like to ask..? Dear Dr. Yang, I would like to ask about my symptoms: my hands tremble, I experience palpitations, and my heart rate is faster than normal. Initially, I thought I had hyperthyroidism, but my blood test results came back negative. However, I still have sym...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: If the symptoms are not very pronounced, it may not be necessary to see a physician. If it seems more like a neuropsychiatric issue and the symptoms cause significant distress, it is advisable to consult a psychiatrist first.[Read More] Understanding Hand Tremors and Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Complications from Diabetes: A Case Study on Peritoneal Dialysis
Diabetes leads to subsequent complications? I would like to inquire about the complications arising from diabetes. My mother was hospitalized on Lunar New Year's Eve due to symptoms of drowsiness, which led us to the emergency room. Blood tests and cultures revealed she had ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello, In response to your question, long-term diabetes can lead to chronic complications, including nephropathy, heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, retinopathy, neuropathy, circulatory system disorders, and periodontal disease. Almost every part of the body that is nouris...[Read More] Understanding Complications from Diabetes: A Case Study on Peritoneal Dialysis
Managing Excessive Thirst in Diabetes: Tips and Alternatives
How to quench thirst? Hello Dr. Kuo, I have had diabetes for 4 years and regularly see my doctor and take medication. My blood sugar levels are 150 before meals and 200 two hours after meals, with a hemoglobin A1c of 7.5. However, I experience constant thirst every day and canno...
Dr. Guo Qinghui Reply:
There are many reasons for thirst, such as diabetes, neuropathy, diabetes insipidus, and the side effects of medications, among others. You should discuss your concerns with your physician and undergo further examination.[Read More] Managing Excessive Thirst in Diabetes: Tips and Alternatives
Understanding Heart Discomfort: When to Seek Cardiac Care
Cardiac discomfort Hello, doctor; this issue has been bothering me for a long time, but it has become particularly severe recently. I often experience chest tightness, and my pulse is irregular—sometimes it is suddenly very fast, then it can be very slow or weak. I have generaliz...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
If you see a cardiologist and they order a cardiac ultrasound, and the results are normal, it is likely that emotional stress is a significant contributing factor.[Read More] Understanding Heart Discomfort: When to Seek Cardiac Care
Understanding Your Blood Pressure Readings: Do You Have Hypertension?
Hypertension Based on the measurements you provided over the past 12 days, your blood pressure readings indicate that you may have hypertension. The systolic (upper) and diastolic (lower) values you recorded show several instances where the systolic pressure is above 140 mmHg and...
Dr. Wang Fangli Reply:
According to the blood pressure values mentioned, there is hypertension. Both internal medicine and family medicine can provide consultation. In daily life, it is important to maintain an ideal weight, follow a diet low in oil and salt, consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, an...[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Pressure Readings: Do You Have Hypertension?