Can Steroids Cause Permanent Immune Imbalance and Pituitary Damage?
Can steroids cause permanent immune system imbalance and damage to the pituitary gland? Hello, due to the doctor's suspicion of asthma exacerbation, I was prescribed a potent corticosteroid, Methylprednisolone, to be taken 4 times a day at 16 mg. However, due to time constra...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Dear Yan Yan, Thank you for your message. The side effects of steroids primarily affect normal hormone function and immune response. The hormones influenced by steroids are typically secreted more in the morning and less in the evening, so it is best to take steroids in alignmen...[Read More] Can Steroids Cause Permanent Immune Imbalance and Pituitary Damage?
Understanding Herpetic Pharyngitis and Prolonged Fever: When to Seek Help
Herpetic pharyngitis with high fever? Hello, doctor. I started experiencing a high fever (39-40 degrees Celsius) from last Thursday, which lasted for three days, and then I developed herpetic pharyngitis. Therefore, the doctor diagnosed it as enterovirus. After three days of sore...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Herpetic pharyngitis presents with painful ulcers in specific areas of the oral cavity, accompanied by fever, sore throat, loss of appetite, general malaise, and respiratory infection symptoms. Hand-foot-mouth disease also manifests with oral ulcers, rashes on the palms and soles...[Read More] Understanding Herpetic Pharyngitis and Prolonged Fever: When to Seek Help
Understanding Allegra: Addressing Fatigue and Allergic Asthma Treatment
Allergy medications Hello, Doctor Gao. I have been using Allegra (60 mg) for allergic asthma for a long time, currently taking 0.5 tablets every night. I have been on this medication for over a year. During this time, I have noticed that I am always tired, waking up feeling like ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Allegra is indeed a new generation antihistamine, and a dosage of 60mg is quite low. Taking half a tablet would likely result in a very small chance of drowsiness as a side effect. However, individual responses can vary, and there are some unkno...[Read More] Understanding Allegra: Addressing Fatigue and Allergic Asthma Treatment
Is Right Side Back Pain Related to Stomach Issues? A Doctor's Insight
Is the pain on the right side of the waist related to stomach pain? Hello Doctor: I experience stomach pain almost every month, primarily in the middle of my abdomen and on the right side of my lower back, with the pain alternating between these areas. The pain usually starts aro...
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
You should see a doctor; it's advisable to consult a gastroenterologist first. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Is Right Side Back Pain Related to Stomach Issues? A Doctor's Insight
Understanding Excessive Urination: Causes and Concerns Explained
Regarding issues related to urine output? I often feel that I have a large urine output, with a daily intake of at least 1500 to 2500 cc and a drinking volume of about 2000 cc. I went to a urologist for a urinalysis, and aside from a urine specific gravity of 1.003, everything el...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. According to your description of "at least 1500 to 2500 cc per day" and "not urinating much if drinking little or no water," both are normal phenomena. 2. The human body has a self-regulating mechanism; more fluid intake leads to more urination, while less...[Read More] Understanding Excessive Urination: Causes and Concerns Explained
Does Gallbladder Removal Increase Type 2 Diabetes Risk?
Several questions regarding diabetes? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about the high-risk groups for diabetes. I am a gallstone patient and have had my gallbladder removed. Does the absence of a gallbladder increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes? In my family history, ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Having a family history of type 2 diabetes indeed increases the likelihood of developing the condition. This apparent familial clustering of incidence may be attributed to genetic factors, as well as shared dietary and lifestyle habits shaped by cohabitation. The progression o...[Read More] Does Gallbladder Removal Increase Type 2 Diabetes Risk?
Can You Test Your Own Lead Levels? Understanding Symptoms and Home Testing
Dr. Hsiao, is it possible to test for lead levels on my own? Frequent urination at night with bubbles can be concerning.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
The assessment of nocturia requires a comprehensive medical history and physical examination, and may even necessitate laboratory tests, urodynamic studies, or imaging examinations. The differential diagnosis must consider many factors, including overactive bladder, heart failure...[Read More] Can You Test Your Own Lead Levels? Understanding Symptoms and Home Testing
Understanding the Connection Between Hypertension and Meniere's Disease
Hypertension disease Hello, I would like to ask if there is a connection between hypertension and Meniere's disease? Recently, my father went to the emergency room with a blood pressure spike of 200, experiencing severe headaches and occasional dizziness, especially in hot w...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello, Xiaoxin: Your father's blood pressure has reached 200 mmHg, along with severe headaches, dizziness, and symptoms of cardiac hypertrophy. This should not be taken lightly; he must seek medical attention regularly, and the physician will arrange for examinations and pre...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Hypertension and Meniere's Disease
Understanding Dizziness and Blurred Vision: Anemia Symptoms Explained
Sudden dizziness, blurred vision, and anemia? This condition has been present for about three to four months. Sometimes I experience sudden dizziness, and occasionally I feel nauseous. The dizziness feels similar to that of anemia, and at times, when I feel dizzy and uncomfortabl...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello Jun, if you are experiencing symptoms such as dizziness and nausea, I recommend that you go to the hospital for a blood test to further assess your health condition for an accurate evaluation. Thank you for your message.[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Blurred Vision: Anemia Symptoms Explained
Understanding Allergy Desensitization Therapy and Its Long-Term Effects
Regarding desensitization therapy? Hello, doctor. When I was about five years old, I developed allergic asthma after a prolonged cough from a cold. By the time I was in first grade, a physician at a provincial hospital provided me with desensitization therapy, which I remember la...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Let me address your questions one by one. 1. Asthma can indeed recur, although the symptoms are generally milder during relapses. After undergoing desensitization therapy, there is a possibility of recurrence, but this typically occurs after a...[Read More] Understanding Allergy Desensitization Therapy and Its Long-Term Effects
Understanding Anemia: Is Pale Eyelids a Sign of Blood Issues?
About Anemia Hello, doctor. Five years ago, I had a physical examination, and my blood test results showed no anemia. However, recently I noticed that the inside of my lower eyelids looks pale and lacks color, although my lips and nails are quite pink. I haven't experienced ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, Xiao Bu: Pale lower eyelids do not necessarily indicate anemia. It is recommended to visit a hospital or laboratory for a hemoglobin test. If anemia is confirmed, further investigation into the underlying cause of the anemia should be conducted. Remember! Do not take iron ...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Is Pale Eyelids a Sign of Blood Issues?
Understanding and Managing Polyarticular Pain: When to Seek Help
Polyarticular pain Hello, doctor: I would like to ask... I suddenly have pain in both shoulder joints, pain in the right thumb joint, and pain in both knees. There are no visible abnormalities, no deformities, and no redness or swelling. The pain is so severe that I cannot walk, ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Ms. Chang, thank you for your message. Although traditional arthritis can present with redness, swelling, heat, and pain, sometimes these symptoms may not be detectable by self-examination, and it is necessary to have a physician assess the condition. If you have already co...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Polyarticular Pain: When to Seek Help
What Tests to Request from an Endocrinologist for Your Health Concerns?
What tests can I request when seeing an endocrinologist? 1. I haven't had my period for the last two consecutive months. I consulted a gynecologist who said that I should not be in menopause yet. 2. In the past, I had a health check-up at National Taiwan University Hospital,...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: The symptoms mentioned in the text belong to different medical specialties. If you are consulting an endocrinologist, the necessary tests based on your complaints and health check reports will be determined according to your individual condition and the physician's ex...[Read More] What Tests to Request from an Endocrinologist for Your Health Concerns?
Concerns About a Lymph Node Near My Neck: Should I Worry?
The "suspected lymph node" that I accidentally touched? Hello, Doctor: Here's the situation. The day before yesterday, while I was showering, I accidentally felt an unusual lump below my left ear, near the lower neck area. After looking it up online, I think it mig...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, if what you described is movable, soft in texture, and small, the chances of it being problematic or even malignant are low. Throughout a person's life, they will inevitably encounter lymph nodes; they can come and go. As long as there are minor infections in the body...[Read More] Concerns About a Lymph Node Near My Neck: Should I Worry?
Understanding Sudden Petechiae on the Arm: Causes and Concerns
Subcutaneous hemorrhage with red spots on the arm? Hello, doctor. This morning, I suddenly noticed petechiae on my left forearm and hand, resembling small pinpricks. There are no similar spots on other parts of my body. I have previously had my platelet count tested several times...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, A-Zhe. If there are only small petechiae in a localized area and the platelet count is normal, with no other symptoms present, I believe the likelihood of it being caused by external factors is higher. In principle, sometimes even carrying a heavy backpack can lead to smal...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Petechiae on the Arm: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Symptoms: Seeking Medical Advice for Unexplained Health Issues
Inquire about the etiology? Hello Dr. Chen, I have a friend who is experiencing some health issues. She has never received proper treatment throughout her life and, due to a lack of time and financial resources, she is seeking help online in hopes of finding some assistance! Her ...
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
Your friend has many symptoms and requires a detailed health examination. I cannot determine the potential disease based solely on a brief two-line description; a personal examination of the patient is necessary for diagnosis. Your friend can visit an otolaryngologist, pulmonolog...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Seeking Medical Advice for Unexplained Health Issues
Understanding Fluctuations in White Blood Cell Counts: Causes and Concerns
Blood test Hello, doctor. I recently had blood tests done on January 23 and January 26, with white blood cell counts of 6200 and 8800, respectively. My white blood cell count has typically been around 6000. Why is there such a significant difference in the results over just two t...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, it is possible for the total white blood cell count to fluctuate within a few days. This is because some white blood cells adhere to the blood vessel walls, and when the body experiences stress, a mild cold, or pain, these adhered white blood cells can detach and return to...[Read More] Understanding Fluctuations in White Blood Cell Counts: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Joint Pain: Insights on Juvenile Spondyloarthritis
Joint pain issues Hello, doctor. I just learned about this website today and looked into the content regarding juvenile ankylosing spondylitis. I feel that some aspects resonate with my experience, and I hope you can provide me with some guidance. When I was in the third year o...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, based on your description, if you are experiencing joint pain along with swelling in the affected joint, it indicates the presence of a rheumatic disease. Sciatica or bone spurs would not typically cause joint swelling and pain. I recommend that you visit a nearby rheumato...[Read More] Understanding Joint Pain: Insights on Juvenile Spondyloarthritis
Understanding Diabetes: Kidney Atrophy and Uremia Symptoms Explained
Diabetes concerns? Hello, Dr. Lee. 1. Why does diabetes cause renal atrophy and uremia? 2. What are the symptoms of uremia?
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: In response to your two questions: 1. Metabolic factors and hemodynamic changes are the primary causes affecting diabetic nephropathy. The effects of hyperglycemia alter the feedback control of the glomeruli and renal tubules, leading to abnormal glucose metabolic path...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Kidney Atrophy and Uremia Symptoms Explained
Understanding Breakfast: Timing and Healthy Snacking Between Meals
Health Consultation Hello, Doctor: I have a few related questions to ask. 1. How long after waking up without eating can it be considered that one has skipped breakfast? 2. The Department of Health advocates for regular meal times; does this also imply that one should not eat any...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. How long after waking up without eating can it be considered skipping breakfast? According to the normal human biological clock, humans work and are active during the day and rest and sleep at night. Therefore, three meals a day are generally needed, typically breakfast, lunch...[Read More] Understanding Breakfast: Timing and Healthy Snacking Between Meals