Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count: Health Implications and Solutions
What is a white blood cell count? Recently, my white blood cell count (WBC) was 3.9k/cumm during a health check-up, which is reported to be below the normal range (4-9.80). What impact could this have on my health? What symptoms might arise? How can I improve this? Thank you.
Dr. Zeng Fenyu Reply:
There are many causes of leukopenia, such as viral infections and colds, which can temporarily lower white blood cell counts. If your white blood cell count is decreased, it is advisable to consult a hematologist to examine a blood smear and have the hematologist explain the resu...[Read More] Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count: Health Implications and Solutions
Persistent Cough After Cold: Causes and Home Remedies
Persistent cough Hello Dr. Kuo! I visited the doctor a week ago due to a cold, and after taking the prescribed medication, my condition has improved. However, I am still troubled by persistent dry cough. I have a weak constitution and am prone to colds, and I occasionally feel a ...
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Dear Mr. Ted, Regarding your cough, we generally refer to a cough lasting less than three weeks as an acute cough. The causes of acute cough can include viral infections and bacterial infections. A dry cough is often due to post-nasal drip or airway allergies. You should consult...[Read More] Persistent Cough After Cold: Causes and Home Remedies
Understanding Elevated Liver Function Tests: Causes and Concerns
Liver function tests (LFTs) My liver function indices have been quite high for the past year. Last month, my blood test showed a level of 85. The doctor mentioned it could be due to alcohol abuse or excessive fatigue, but I have not experienced either of these issues. I am unsure...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
What you referred to as "liver function index" should correctly be termed "hepatitis index," which generally refers to ALT (GPT) and AST (GOT) levels, indicating the current activity of hepatitis. Strictly speaking, they do not represent "liver function&q...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Function Tests: Causes and Concerns
Causes of Thyroid Enlargement: Conditions, Treatment, and Prevention
Causes of thyroid enlargement? I would like to ask the doctor: What are the causes of thyroid enlargement and what diseases could potentially arise from it? How should it be treated and prevented?
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Hello Mr. Hardaway: Thyroid enlargement is quite common and often has unknown causes. It can be due to viral infections, hyperthyroidism, benign or malignant tumors, among others. You need to consult a physician for thyroid hormone testing, and if necessary, a biopsy may be requi...[Read More] Causes of Thyroid Enlargement: Conditions, Treatment, and Prevention
Understanding Indigestion: Causes and Solutions for Post-Meal Discomfort
Dyspepsia!! After every meal, I do some light exercise, but I always experience belching that usually lasts for about two hours. I'm not sure if this is due to poor digestion or another condition. Could you please advise on how to address this issue? Thank you!
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hiccups are generally believed to be caused by stimulation of the phrenic nerve. Common causes include viral infections, overeating, gastrointestinal motility disorders, or structural abnormalities. Other factors, such as digestive tumors, may also contribute. It is generally adv...[Read More] Understanding Indigestion: Causes and Solutions for Post-Meal Discomfort
Understanding Pain Near the Upper Left Breast: Causes and Concerns
I have a sharp pain in the upper left area near my breast? Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing sharp pain in the upper left area near the inframammary fold. The pain comes and goes quickly. What could be the reason for this? Is it a warning sign or is it normal?
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Based on the location of the pain you described, which is in the upper left abdomen near the rib cage, the most likely causes, ranked by probability, are as follows: 1. Intercostal nerve inflammation or muscle strain, which may be due to previous sports injuries, poor posture, or...[Read More] Understanding Pain Near the Upper Left Breast: Causes and Concerns