Can Acetazolamide Be Safely Taken with Heart and Cholesterol Medications?
Medication-related issues? Hello, doctor. This New Year's Day, I plan to take my two elderly family members to Wuling to enjoy the scenery. We intend to prepare Acetazolamide for them to prevent symptoms of altitude sickness. Currently, I know that my mother is taking medica...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
A single dose of Dantrolene has little impact on the cardiovascular system. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can Acetazolamide Be Safely Taken with Heart and Cholesterol Medications?
Understanding SSA Antibodies: Implications for Pregnancy and Lupus Risk
Detection of SSA antibodies? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask about experiencing unexplained pain and swelling in 1-2 joints of my fingers and toes this year, which disappears after a few days, only to reappear in other areas with tenderness upon pressure. I visited the rheumat...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The presence of SSA antibodies is not related to the ability to conceive; however, there is still a possibility that Sjögren's syndrome may evolve into lupus erythematosus in the future, although the likelihood is unclear. Therefore, when ...[Read More] Understanding SSA Antibodies: Implications for Pregnancy and Lupus Risk
Understanding Causes of Lower Limb Edema: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
What are the possible causes of lower extremity edema? Hello Doctor: My father has been experiencing lower limb edema (with pitting), abdominal bloating, loss of appetite, subjective fatigue (increased sleep duration), along with pain in the skin of both legs and ankle joint pain...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If the albumin level in the blood is too low, it may also cause lower extremity edema. It is recommended to check the albumin level data, as low levels can lead to lower limb swelling. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Causes of Lower Limb Edema: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Does Chronic Inflammation from Ankylosing Spondylitis Raise LDL and Heart Disease Risk?
Does chronic inflammation from ankylosing spondylitis lead to elevated LDL (low-density lipoprotein) levels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease? 1. I am 55 years old and a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. About 4 to 5 years ago, I was effectively managing my condit...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. I am 55 years old and a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. About 4 to 5 years ago, I was effectively managing my condition with Salazopyrin and Celebrex, which normalized my pain and inflammatory markers, so I stopp...[Read More] Does Chronic Inflammation from Ankylosing Spondylitis Raise LDL and Heart Disease Risk?
Managing Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Drops During Dialysis: A Patient's Guide
When blood pressure drops during dialysis and heart rate also decreases, how should it be managed? Hello, Doctor Wu: I have been a dialysis patient for over a year and have hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. I also have coronary artery disease and mild arrhythmia. Last y...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
For heart-related issues, please consult a cardiologist. In cases of hypotension during dialysis, the on-site nephrologist should provide immediate feedback. Each situation is different, so please respond according to the circumstances at that time. Common management strategies i...[Read More] Managing Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Drops During Dialysis: A Patient's Guide
Understanding High Cholesterol: When to See a Specialist
High cholesterol Total cholesterol 235, triglycerides 128, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) 40, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) 169.4, has hypertension, and occasionally experiences a strong heartbeat. Which specialty should I consult, and what kind of issue is this?
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: You can first see a cardiologist. There is an issue with high cholesterol. You also have a sensation of a strong heartbeat, so it would be advisable to consult a cardiologist to check for any abnormalities.[Read More] Understanding High Cholesterol: When to See a Specialist
High Cholesterol and Heart Murmurs: Which Specialist to See First?
High cholesterol levels in the heart, heart murmurs? Hello, doctor. My mother recently had a blood test arranged by the rheumatology and immunology department, followed by a scheduled echocardiogram and CT scan (which has not yet been completed). After the echocardiogram, it was ...
Dr. Cai Mingsong Reply:
If possible, you may consult your original physician to review the report earlier. You can also consider an outpatient consultation with a cardiologist to evaluate whether treatment or further testing is necessary. If you experience any discomfort, please return to the hospital f...[Read More] High Cholesterol and Heart Murmurs: Which Specialist to See First?
Frequent Styes: Understanding Causes and Seeking Medical Advice
Frequent occurrence of styes? Hello Doctor: Since last year, I have been preparing for the national exam, and starting in May of this year, I have been experiencing frequent styes, approximately once a month. Recently, just last week, I had a stye on my left eye, and today I have...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Since the symptoms are mostly non-specific, it is difficult to pinpoint where the issue lies. If you are very concerned, you may consider undergoing a comprehensive health check-up. If the results are normal but you continue to experience recurr...[Read More] Frequent Styes: Understanding Causes and Seeking Medical Advice
Understanding Low Sodium Levels: Causes and Connections to Heart Rate
Causes of Hyponatremia Hello Doctor, my 87-year-old grandmother has a long history of hypertension (she is on diuretics) and bradycardia. Over the past two months, she has been undergoing chemotherapy and radiation for cervical cancer. In her weekly blood tests, we have observed ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Grandma's condition requires a comprehensive and thorough evaluation. It is advisable to consult her attending physician during the routine follow-up visit. If Grandma experiences symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, nausea, headache, or drowsiness, she should seek medical at...[Read More] Understanding Low Sodium Levels: Causes and Connections to Heart Rate
Managing Autoimmune Disorders: Medication Concerns and Heart Health
Medication issues I would like to ask about my situation. After abnormal ANA antibody results from a blood test, I underwent several examinations. Initially, I tested positive for Sjögren's syndrome antibodies, and recently, due to severe Raynaud's phenomenon, I also te...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe that Puda tablets are quite safe medications. Although there is a very small chance of cardiac side effects, they should not affect heart rhythm. If it is just early contractions, I think it is not a concern. However, if there are ind...[Read More] Managing Autoimmune Disorders: Medication Concerns and Heart Health
Understanding the Transition from Hyperthyroidism to Hypothyroidism
Hyperthyroidism to hypothyroidism? Hello Doctor, in April I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism with T4: 5.1 and TSH: <0.005. After medication, my levels dropped to low in late May. The doctor advised me to stop the medication for three to five days and then continue with a red...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to visit the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism at a major hospital for diagnosis and treatment. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding the Transition from Hyperthyroidism to Hypothyroidism
Does Taking Ezetimibe Cause Weight Loss in Heart Patients?
Will taking (Eito tablets) lead to weight loss? Hello doctor, my father is 81 years old and is a heart failure patient. He has a stent implanted in his heart. The doctor hopes to lower his cholesterol, so he prescribed 40 mg of Lipitor (atorvastatin) once daily. This summer, an a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. This issue is more related to cardiology, so I recommend consulting a cardiologist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.[Read More] Does Taking Ezetimibe Cause Weight Loss in Heart Patients?
Is an EF of 65% Normal After a Heart Ultrasound at Age 23?
Echocardiogram I am 23 years old and had an echocardiogram last week. I would like to ask if an ejection fraction (EF) of 65% is considered normal?
Dr. Yu Liying Reply:
Hello, Xiao Yao. EF in echocardiography refers to ejection fraction, which describes the function of the left ventricle, although it can occasionally refer to the right ventricle as well. While this number appears to be within the normal range, I must remind you that echocardiogr...[Read More] Is an EF of 65% Normal After a Heart Ultrasound at Age 23?
Managing SSA Antibody Positive Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Pregnancy with positive SSA antibodies? Hello doctor, I have a positive SSA result of 160, which has remained around this level for the past three years with no significant symptoms. I have been regularly following up with the immunology department in Taoyuan. Later, when I found...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe you don't need to worry too much at this stage. The likelihood of neonatal arrhythmias in pregnant women who are SSA positive is relatively low, but it is indeed something to monitor. Quinine is a medication and does have potenti...[Read More] Managing SSA Antibody Positive Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Abnormal abdominal pain Hello, doctor. I am 29 years old and I have ankylosing spondylitis and chronic anemia (with an average hemoglobin level of about 20). I'm not sure if this is related to the events I've experienced. The first incident occurred when I was around 20...
Dr. Zheng Weijun Reply:
Hello, thank you for your detailed description. First, regarding your mention that "the average hemoglobin does not exceed 20," this value is within the normal range; the normal hemoglobin level for women is 12–16 g/dL, so your current hemoglobin level may not be abnorm...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Managing Severe Tuberculosis: Treatment Strategies and Patient Care
After a critical stage of pulmonary tuberculosis, treatment directions and recommendations include the following: 1. **Continuation of Antitubercular Therapy**: Ensure adherence to a full course of antitubercular medications, typically including isoniazid, rifamp Hello Doctor, ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the considerations for the above issues will vary based on the individual patient's condition. It is recommended to have a detailed discussion with your mother's current attending physician, as this type of online consultation cannot address such individual and c...[Read More] Managing Severe Tuberculosis: Treatment Strategies and Patient Care
Do Other Viruses Affect HIV Test Results? Insights on RT-PCR and Rapid Tests
Will it affect the test results? Hello doctor, I would like to ask if the presence of other viruses in the body, such as COVID-19, monkeypox, dengue fever, and other diseases, can affect the results of RT-PCR or other rapid tests for HIV?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
If you receive a positive result for HIV, don't panic! Let's discuss the concept of "false positives" in statistics. Imagine a scenario where you are not part of a high-risk group for HIV and have no specific sexual orientation, but you accidentally get expose...[Read More] Do Other Viruses Affect HIV Test Results? Insights on RT-PCR and Rapid Tests
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Lower abdominal pain? I have been experiencing a dull ache and some bloating in my lower abdomen since last night. I vomited once around noon, which provided some temporary relief, but the discomfort returned shortly after. Is it normal to feel a heartbeat around my navel area?
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
There are many causes of abdominal pain, and it requires a specialist for differential diagnosis. If the situation is urgent, please go to the emergency room; otherwise, you can visit a gastroenterology outpatient clinic. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Could Thyroid Issues Be Behind Your Ongoing Health Problems?
Is it possible to have a thyroid problem? Hello, doctor. I am a recent college graduate, and I have been troubled by various issues since middle school, such as anxiety, insomnia, tremors, rapid heartbeat, frequent muscle cramps, and occasional swelling of my eyes. Additionally, ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
It is recommended that you first consult with a family medicine specialist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Could Thyroid Issues Be Behind Your Ongoing Health Problems?
Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need Medical Attention?
Eating undercooked pork in barbecue? When eating barbecue, I thought it was beef and consumed it medium-rare, only to later discover it was pork! Doctor, I have two questions: 1. Is it necessary to see an infectious disease specialist for this situation? 2. Is the prevalence of t...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the information from the Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan, a member of the indigenous community in Hualien County, Peng Zhao-xi, frequently consumed raw wild boar meat. Over a month ago, he developed a hard lump on the inner side of his left thigh. After exam...[Read More] Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need Medical Attention?