Understanding Tongue Pain: The Role of B12 Deficiency and Parasites
Tongue pain and issues related to vitamin B12 deficiency and parasitic infections (long text)? Hello Doctor, I mainly want to ask about parasites and gastrointestinal issues. Here are my personal details: At the age of 12, I contracted pneumonia and took antibiotics for a month ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
1. Theoretically, eosinophil levels may rise during a parasitic infection; however, this is not absolute, as many individuals with parasitic infections may have normal test results. 2. Indeed, when testing stool for ova, unless the parasite is shedding eggs at the time of testi...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Pain: The Role of B12 Deficiency and Parasites
Understanding Urine Ketones and Bilirubin: Diabetes or Hyperthyroidism?
Urine ketones 3+ Hello Doctor, during my health check in November last year, my urine ketones were (+/-), urine bilirubin was (-), T4 levels were normal, and TSH was slightly low. In late February this year, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. In early April, during my health c...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
An increase in urine ketones may be caused by fasting or starvation. If it persists, you can consult a metabolic specialist. An increase in urine bilirubin can be evaluated by a hepatobiliary specialist for further investigation and monitoring.[Read More] Understanding Urine Ketones and Bilirubin: Diabetes or Hyperthyroidism?
Understanding Kidney Function Tests: What Your eGFR Results Mean
Kidney function tests Hello, doctor. During my health check-up last May, tests for urine protein, urine glucose, urine blood, kidney ultrasound, blood sugar, and blood pressure showed no abnormalities. My blood urea nitrogen was 12.0 mg/dL, creatinine was 0.79 mg/dL, and uric aci...
Dr. Su Zhehong Reply:
Currently, the test results are normal, and there is no need to limit protein and potassium intake. Focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For health supplements, use well-known and certified brands.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function Tests: What Your eGFR Results Mean
Understanding Autoimmune Disorders in Children: Symptoms and Testing
Autoimmunity Hello Doctor, in October 2019, my son (7 years old) was infected with influenza type B. Later, he developed some red spots on his hands, and when we went to the hospital for a blood test, the emergency doctor said everything was normal, with a platelet count of 180,0...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. It is indeed possible for children to develop skin rashes and abnormal blood test results due to viral infections, and if these symptoms resolve quickly or the test results return to normal, there is usually no need for concern. However, blood t...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Disorders in Children: Symptoms and Testing
Normal Thyroid Levels but Still Experiencing Hair Loss: Possible Causes and Solutions
Thyroid indices are normal, yet hair loss persists? Hello, doctor. Last year, I experienced sudden and abnormal hair loss and was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. I have been managing the symptoms with medication, and my lab results have been normal during follow-up visits. Howeve...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
There are many factors that contribute to hair loss. Depending on your situation, you may want to consider thyroid medications and conditions unrelated to the thyroid. Certain thyroid medications may potentially lead to hair loss. As for conditions outside of the thyroid, there a...[Read More] Normal Thyroid Levels but Still Experiencing Hair Loss: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Throat Symptoms
Temperature issues Hello Doctor, I started experiencing a sore throat on December 20th of last year and sought treatment. After finishing the first course of medication, my symptoms changed to a scratchy throat and coughing. I continued to return for follow-up visits and received...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, your body temperature is indeed slightly elevated, especially if it frequently exceeds 37.5°C. It is important to pay attention to this; if there are no specific symptoms of infection, it may be necessary to consider atypical infections or other factors such as rheumatolog...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Throat Symptoms
Managing Hair Loss During Hyperthyroidism Treatment: Causes and Solutions
Hyperthyroidism issues? I have hyperthyroidism and have been on medication for about six months. My blood test results are currently normal. I take 2 tablets of Inderal and half a tablet of Carbizo daily, but my hair continues to fall out. I would like to ask the doctor if these ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Typically, hair loss will improve after the thyroid antibodies return to normal. If hair loss persists, please consult a dermatologist.[Read More] Managing Hair Loss During Hyperthyroidism Treatment: Causes and Solutions
Understanding the Significance of 1:80 Antinuclear Antibody Test Results
1:80X(-) Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are a type of autoantibody that target substances within the nucleus of cells. The values obtained from the indirect immunofluorescence assay indicate the presence and concentration of these antibodies in the blood. A positive ANA test can su...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The antinuclear antibody (ANA) test starts with a dilution of 1:80. If the result is negative at this initial dilution, it will be reported as negative (-), indicating a normal result. If there is a positive reaction at 1:80, further dilutions ...[Read More] Understanding the Significance of 1:80 Antinuclear Antibody Test Results
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Should You See an Endocrinologist?
Abnormal blood test results? The most recent blood test report from my check-up shows a fasting blood glucose level of 101, which is slightly above the normal range, but the hemoglobin A1c level is 5.3, which seems to be normal. Should I see an endocrinologist for adjustment or f...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Fasting blood glucose levels exceeding 100 require regular follow-up visits. It is also important to consider that some individuals may have inaccurate hemoglobin A1c results due to anemia.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Should You See an Endocrinologist?
Understanding Blood Test Results After Organic Solvent Poisoning
Blood tests after organic solvent poisoning? Recently, I experienced poisoning due to organic solvents and felt unwell the next day, so I went to the hospital for an examination. Blood and urine samples were taken, and the report showed several abnormal values highlighted in red:...
Dr. Su Zhehong Reply:
Excessive exposure to organic solvents may lead to liver damage, but this blood test report shows that the levels of AST and ALT have not increased more than twofold. It is recommended to first consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation to rule out other causes of liver ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results After Organic Solvent Poisoning
Understanding Low TSH Levels: Should You Be Concerned?
Low TSH levels? Hello, doctor! A few years ago, I had a cold and visited a traditional Chinese medicine clinic. After taking my pulse, the practitioner suggested that I might have hyperthyroidism. I then went to a large hospital to see an endocrinologist, and my blood test result...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
You can retest in three months. If both TSH levels are low, it may indicate thyroid autoimmunity. Additionally, you can test for TSH receptor antibodies; if abnormal, it may suggest Graves' disease.[Read More] Understanding Low TSH Levels: Should You Be Concerned?
Understanding Your Thyroid Test Results: What Do They Mean?
Thyroid Test Report I had a thyroid blood test two days ago, and the results are as follows: Serum T3: 195.9 (70-170), Serum T4: 11.17 (4.9-12.0), TSH: 3.447 (0.34-5.60). This is the first time I have encountered such a situation. Compared to previous results, all three values ha...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Currently, there are no significant abnormalities in thyroid function, and treatment is not necessary at this time. Follow-up in three months is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Your Thyroid Test Results: What Do They Mean?
Does Inderal Affect Rheumatology and Immunology Test Results?
Testing issues Hello, doctor. I visited the rheumatology and immunology department yesterday due to some issues. The physician arranged for blood tests related to rheumatology and the immune system, but I forgot to inform the doctor that I took "Inderal" (propranolol) t...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Taking this medication will not affect the test results, so there is no need to worry. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about you.[Read More] Does Inderal Affect Rheumatology and Immunology Test Results?
Understanding the Difference Between Anti HIV and Anti-HIV Test Results
Consultation on Anti-HIV Testing Items Hello Dr. Hong, I have been regularly undergoing HIV antibody testing at certified laboratories during this period. I received reports from two different testing facilities, both of which indicated negative results. However, the first facili...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, both of these expressions have the same meaning. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding the Difference Between Anti HIV and Anti-HIV Test Results
Understanding STD Testing: Key Questions and Concerns Explained
Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing Issues (Continued) Hello Doctor, I have some follow-up questions regarding the STI testing 164238... 1. For infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HPV, if there are no symptoms, can they still be detected in tests? (I read in the literatu...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Gonorrhea is primarily diagnosed based on symptoms and culture of secretions, while condyloma acuminatum (genital warts) is mainly diagnosed by appearance. If there are no symptoms, it can be difficult to make a diagnosis. Chlamydia relies on symptoms and laboratory t...[Read More] Understanding STD Testing: Key Questions and Concerns Explained
Understanding Skin Rashes and Health Concerns in Young Adults
Please ask your question? Hello, I previously visited a urologist because I am still a virgin and have no experience with sexual activities. The doctor mentioned that the most likely cause of my issue was bathing in hot springs, as I go twice a month, or it could be due to poor h...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the situation you described, it is likely that you are experiencing folliculitis. As for sexually transmitted infections, if you have not engaged in sexual activity, it is almost impossible for you to contract an STI, so there is no need to worry. Thank you for yo...[Read More] Understanding Skin Rashes and Health Concerns in Young Adults
Fasting vs. Non-Fasting Blood Tests: What You Need to Know
Blood test? Hello, doctor. I am going to the hospital soon for blood tests to check for diseases (such as hepatitis, HIV, syphilis, etc.). Although the hospital said that fasting is not necessary for the blood draw, I would like to know if it is okay to fast before the blood test...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, fasting or not will not affect the test results. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Fasting vs. Non-Fasting Blood Tests: What You Need to Know
Understanding STD Transmission: When to Seek Further Testing
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) transmission follow-up questions? Hello, doctor. Regarding the STD transmission inquiry 163850, I apologize if I have offended you; I just want to confirm your opinion. Since you used the term "temporarily," I am still quite concer...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Yes, because in medicine and disease, there are no absolute certainties. It can only be said that based on current medical advice, there is no need for further testing and no cause for concern. However, if any symptoms or discomfort arise in the future, it would be advisable to u...[Read More] Understanding STD Transmission: When to Seek Further Testing
Understanding Your Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Levels: Key Insights
Issues with blood lipids and blood glucose? Hello Dr. Lin, I have a few questions regarding my blood sugar and lipid levels. Below are my test results from two health check-ups spaced seven months apart: - Total Cholesterol (TCH): 235 mg/dL, 256 mg/dL (Reference value: <200)...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
1. According to your Glu AC and HbA1C, they are currently within the standard range. 2. Whether you need to take lipid-lowering medication depends on other risk factors, such as a family history of cerebrovascular disease or cardiovascular disease, among others. 3. It is currentl...[Read More] Understanding Your Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Levels: Key Insights
Do Topical Medications Affect STD Test Results?
Testing issues Hello doctor, I would like to ask if using topical medications (such as acne treatments, depigmenting agents, corticosteroid creams, antibiotic ointments, etc.), eye drops, will affect the test results for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B/C? Thank you.
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, these topical medications will not affect the test results. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Do Topical Medications Affect STD Test Results?