Understanding Calf Cramps: Causes and Connection to Liver or Kidney Health
Calf cramps Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you some questions regarding muscle cramps. I often experience cramps in my calves, particularly in my right calf. This issue had not occurred for some time, but recently, I have been experiencing cramps again. I came across an artic...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question... 1. A cramp generally refers to an involuntary muscle contraction that lasts for several seconds to minutes and can cause severe pain, most commonly occurring in the calf or lower limbs. 2. The causes include excessive exercise, poor posture,...[Read More] Understanding Calf Cramps: Causes and Connection to Liver or Kidney Health
Could I Have Diabetes? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Do I have diabetes? Hello Doctor: Sometimes I forget to flush the toilet after urinating, and after a few hours, I find that the toilet is crawling with ants. Occasionally, I also notice ants crawling on me while I sleep (even after showering). I went to the hospital for blood te...
Dr. Shi Guangzhong Reply:
Dear Yu-Feng: 1. The presence of ants in the toilet does not necessarily indicate diabetes, especially considering your fasting blood glucose level is 101 mg/dL. According to standard criteria, your current situation does not classify as diabetes. Further testing of your postpra...[Read More] Could I Have Diabetes? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Acid Reflux: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Gastroesophageal reflux? Hello Dr. Lee: I have been feeling discomfort in my throat recently, and it hurts a lot when I eat. Today, after undergoing an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at National Taiwan University, the doctor informed me that I have excessive stomach acid. Becau...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Why does excessive stomach acid occur, and why do some people experience it? This remains largely unresolved and can often be attributed to "autonomic nervous system dysfunction." Currently, many medical conditions do not have clear answers. What you refer to as "a...[Read More] Understanding Acid Reflux: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Pain and Surgery
Health Consultation 1. I have been experiencing stomach pain since I gave birth, which has lasted for 4 years. I have had an endoscopy done once a year, but the report has not come out yet. What could be the cause of this? I have also done a stool test that showed trace blood, an...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
The results of an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy can typically be discussed directly with the performing physician, without the need to wait for a report. The presence of occult blood in the stool indicates that there may be bleeding somewhere in the gastrointestinal tract or t...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Pain and Surgery
Understanding Liver Spots: Causes, Treatments, and Recovery Time
Lentigines Hello, doctor: I have melasma and consulted a dermatologist. The doctor mentioned it is due to hormonal imbalance. Should I see an endocrinologist? Can melasma be treated? If so, how can it be treated? What is the duration of the treatment?
Dr. Yu Xianneng Reply:
Liver spots, commonly referred to in folk terminology, may encompass various conditions; they could simply be a skin manifestation. Blood tests conducted in an outpatient setting can help determine if they are indicative of an underlying disease or not.[Read More] Understanding Liver Spots: Causes, Treatments, and Recovery Time
Understanding the Dangers of a Compromised Immune System
Autoimmune system (Forwarded from the Director's mailbox) Hello: The body's autoimmune system being compromised can lead to various conditions, such as the development of vitiligo on the skin. What are the potential drawbacks of having a weakened autoimmune system? Than...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello: Abnormalities in the immune system can lead to dysfunction in every system of the body, such as an increased susceptibility to infections resulting in sepsis, as well as liver and kidney dysfunction, skin erythema, leukoderma, blisters, and itching, among other symptoms. S...[Read More] Understanding the Dangers of a Compromised Immune System
Understanding Your Concerns: HIV Symptoms and Misconceptions
I have been feeling very troubled? Hello, doctor. This has been a concern for me for 8 years: In fifth grade, I saw a campaign about HIV prevention and control. After some time, I got sick, and the doctor said it was a cold, but I was worried it might be symptoms of HIV infection...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing Reply:
Hello: The early symptoms of HIV are difficult to distinguish from other viral infections. It is recommended that you undergo anonymous testing after the window period to determine if you are infected. You can go to one of the ten designated hospitals that offer anonymous testing...[Read More] Understanding Your Concerns: HIV Symptoms and Misconceptions
Understanding Tongue Abnormalities: What Your Symptoms Might Mean
Abnormalities of the tongue I hadn't paid much attention to the appearance of my tongue before, but today when I looked in the mirror, I suddenly noticed a small circle on the left side of my tongue. The outer edge has some white material, and there is no pain or taste. The ...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing Reply:
Hello: Please seek dental care for accurate treatment and diagnosis, as this description cannot lead to a direct diagnosis. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Shu-Hsing, Department of Infectious Diseases, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Tongue Abnormalities: What Your Symptoms Might Mean
Understanding Skin Bumps: Are They Linked to Liver Health?
I'm sorry, but I need more context to provide an accurate translation. Could you please provide additional information or clarify your request? Hello Dr. Zhao, I have recently developed some bumps on my forehead, and there's just a small one on my right cheek. I read i...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
The liver is a detoxifying organ, so poor liver function can lead to the circulation of toxic substances in the bloodstream. The skin contains many tiny blood vessels, and when harmful substances circulate in the blood, they can cause various changes in the skin, such as roughnes...[Read More] Understanding Skin Bumps: Are They Linked to Liver Health?
Do I Have Diabetes Symptoms? Understanding Urine Bubbles and Health Concerns
Do I have symptoms of diabetes? Dear Doctor: I am a sophomore in college, and for the past three to four years, I have noticed that my urine often has bubbles, sometimes covering a large area in the toilet, and occasionally it is completely bubbly. This usually happens more in th...
Dr. Shi Guangzhong Reply:
Normal urine contains various nitrogenous waste products and minerals, and its concentration varies depending on individual hydration levels. The first urine in the morning is more likely to have bubbles, so it is normal for urine to appear bubbly. Moreover, since your health che...[Read More] Do I Have Diabetes Symptoms? Understanding Urine Bubbles and Health Concerns
The Impact of Cold Foods on Your Body: Understanding Health Risks
Cold items Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask: the human body prefers a warm environment. If one frequently consumes cold foods and drinks, which organs in the body could be adversely affected? (I know about the stomach.) Also, with summer approaching... Last year, I developed a ...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
Skin conditions related to cold include (1) winter itch (winter eczema), (2) palmoplantar keratoderma (Keratodermia Tylodes Palmaris Progressiva), (3) atopic dermatitis, and (4) cold urticaria. These conditions are often triggered by exposure to cold and dryness, commonly present...[Read More] The Impact of Cold Foods on Your Body: Understanding Health Risks
Navigating Diabetes Complications: A Daughter's Plea for Guidance
I'm sorry, but I need specific content to translate. Please provide the text you would My father, who has always had a strong personality, has been suffering from diabetes for the past three years without letting any of his friends or family know. It wasn't until Decemb...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your inquiry, I am deeply sorry to hear about your father's condition. The complications of diabetes include macrovascular diseases such as heart and cerebrovascular disorders, as well as microvascular diseases like retinopathy, nephropathy, and periphe...[Read More] Navigating Diabetes Complications: A Daughter's Plea for Guidance
Understanding Lymph Node-Related Skin Issues: Causes and Concerns
I would like to ask? I would like to ask... Recently, I have developed several bumps under my armpits, at the top of my inner thighs, and on the outer sides of my calves that resemble acne but are larger, painful, and have pus (all located in areas rich in lymph nodes). A few yea...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
If folliculitis worsens and is accompanied by a bacterial infection, it may lead to the formation of an abscess and could even result in sepsis, so it should not be taken lightly. It is best to promptly visit a hospital for evaluation and treatment by a dermatologist.[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node-Related Skin Issues: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Hematuria During Pregnancy: Causes and Management
Hematuria Dear Dr. Yang, A year ago, when I was pregnant with my first child, I experienced hematuria. After being treated with antibiotics by my physician, the symptoms improved. Three months postpartum, I noticed small blood clots in my urine and went to the hospital for exami...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question. A year ago, you experienced hematuria during pregnancy, which improved after antibiotic treatment, likely due to hemorrhagic cystitis. After delivery, blood clots were found in your urine, and tests including urine cytology, X-ray, and renal u...[Read More] Understanding Hematuria During Pregnancy: Causes and Management
Understanding Unexplained Heat and Rash: Causes and Solutions
The whole body experiences a fever, followed by the appearance of a rash..? I often experience intense thirst almost every day, followed by a feeling of heat throughout my body. I then notice a rash appearing on my wrists, and sometimes my face also becomes red and develops a ras...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. The differential diagnosis for skin rashes requires a detailed physical examination, including an analysis of the rash's surface characteristics, shape, color, size, distribution, and progression. Additionally, it is important to co...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Heat and Rash: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Aspirin Allergies and NSAIDs: What You Need to Know
Could you please provide more details about the allergy issue? Hello Doctor: I once received an injection (STIN) for a fever, which is a type of aspirin medication, and as a result, my eyes swelled up. I would like to know if being allergic to aspirin means I will definitely be a...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello: The reaction you have experienced is a manifestation of an allergic reaction known as angioedema. Allergic reactions can present in various forms, including skin rashes, asthma attacks, anaphylactic shock, fever, and joint pain, among other symptoms. NSAIDs refer to a gene...[Read More] Understanding Aspirin Allergies and NSAIDs: What You Need to Know
Is Chest Hair Growth a Sign of Hormonal Imbalance?
Is excessive hair growth on the chest an endocrine issue? I have developed three to four noticeable dark hairs (at least 3 centimeters long) around my breast areola, and there are also some fine, less noticeable hairs near my navel. This phenomenon has persisted for at least eigh...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
Women’s ovaries and adrenal glands also secrete small amounts of male hormones. In pathological cases, such as tumors, there can be an excessive production of male hormones, leading to symptoms like acne, hirsutism, clitoromegaly, and breast atrophy. Imaging techniques such as ul...[Read More] Is Chest Hair Growth a Sign of Hormonal Imbalance?
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling in Children: Causes and Concerns
Lymph node Yesterday, my third-grade son suddenly discovered a small hard lump above his groin (which is not painful). I was very anxious and immediately took him to see his family doctor. The doctor initially diagnosed it as lymphadenopathy and prescribed anti-inflammatory medic...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
The inflamed area may not be very obvious. For example, when bitten by a mosquito while sleeping at night, one might unknowingly scratch the itch, transferring bacteria from under the fingernails into the bite wound. By morning, the redness and swelling caused by the bite may hav...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling in Children: Causes and Concerns
Should I Get a Full Body Health Checkup for My Symptoms?
Should I undergo a comprehensive health check-up? Dear Dr. Wang, I would like to ask you: since 2002, I have started to develop acne on my face, which I had never experienced before. Gradually, by 2003, my overall health began to decline, and I started experiencing symptoms of a...
Dr. Wang Fangli Reply:
Hello Min Min: It is best to consult with an internal medicine or family medicine physician to determine the necessary tests. Dr. Wang Fangli from internal medicine.[Read More] Should I Get a Full Body Health Checkup for My Symptoms?
Understanding Kidney Pain: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Kidney issues? Hello Dr. Yang: I've been experiencing a dull ache around my right kidney area for the past few days. Is there something wrong with my kidney?
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the causes of the right flank pain that has persisted for several days may include the following: 1. Kidney diseases: Most people would first consider potential kidney issues, including renal or urinary tract stones, acute pyelonephritis, and,...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Pain: Causes and Concerns for Your Health