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mca helf
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Medical Channel Asia Latest Questions

Im 30yo female I used to be on birth control for about ages 15-25 to regulate my hormones and for acne. Not sure which brands i took. At 25yo i switched to the depot injection because i wanted more long ...

  1. It's great that you're exploring different birth control options, especially given your concerns and experiences. Here's a breakdown of the options you mentioned: Implanon (Nexplanon) Hormone Implant: How It Works: It's a small rod implanted under the skin of your arm that releases a hormone calledRead more

    It’s great that you’re exploring different birth control options, especially given your concerns and experiences. Here’s a breakdown of the options you mentioned:

    1. Implanon (Nexplanon) Hormone Implant:
      • How It Works: It’s a small rod implanted under the skin of your arm that releases a hormone called etonogestrel over three years.
      • Effectiveness: Very effective with a less than 1% failure rate.
      • Side Effects: Some women experience irregular periods, mood swings, or changes in appetite. Given your history with the Depo injection, it’s important to discuss this option with your doctor, as hormonal implants can also affect mood.
    2. Mirena IUD (Hormonal IUD):
      • How It Works: It releases levonorgestrel, a hormone that thickens cervical mucus and thins the uterine lining, preventing pregnancy for up to five years.
      • Effectiveness: Also very effective with less than a 1% failure rate.
      • Side Effects: It may reduce or even stop periods over time, which can be beneficial for some women. Mood swings can occur, but they are generally less common than with systemic hormonal birth control like the pill or injection. It could be a safer option for you compared to Depo, but a consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial.
    3. Copper IUD (Non-Hormonal IUD):
      • How It Works: It creates a toxic environment for sperm, preventing fertilization. It can last for up to 10 years.
      • Effectiveness: Highly effective with a less than 1% failure rate.
      • Side Effects: Yes, periods can become heavier and more painful, especially in the first few months. However, since it’s hormone-free, it won’t affect your mood, which might be a significant benefit given your history.

    Considerations:

    • Mood Concerns: Given your history with severe mood swings and suicidal ideations from hormonal birth control, it’s critical to discuss any new options with a healthcare provider, particularly a gynecologist or a women’s health specialist. They can help tailor the best solution for you.
    • Accessibility in Singapore: All three options are available in Singapore, but you’ll need to consult with your doctor to get a prescription and have the device inserted.
    • Latex Allergy: Given your husband’s latex allergy, non-latex condoms (like those made of polyurethane or polyisoprene) are also an option for added protection.

    It’s good to gather information, but the next step should be to consult with a gynecologist to find the safest and most effective option tailored to your needs.

    https://www.helf.co/en

    All responses provided by HELF are generated by its AI architecture. The information shared is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon for medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical concerns, diagnosis or treatment.

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Hi doctors, I’m a 24 year old female and for the past few weeks I’ve been noticing that I seem to be going to the toilet to poop much more frequently than usual. My appetite is same same. I feel ...

  1. Frequent bowel movements can sometimes be a sign of an underlying issue, but it's also possible that it's a temporary change in your body's rhythm. Since your appetite and diet haven't changed significantly, it might be worth considering other factors. Here are some potential causes to think about:Read more

    Frequent bowel movements can sometimes be a sign of an underlying issue, but it’s also possible that it’s a temporary change in your body’s rhythm. Since your appetite and diet haven’t changed significantly, it might be worth considering other factors.

    Here are some potential causes to think about:

    1. Stress or Anxiety: Both can affect your digestive system and lead to more frequent bowel movements.
    2. Caffeine Intake: Coffee is a known stimulant for the digestive system, which can increase bowel movements. If you’ve increased your caffeine intake or are particularly sensitive to it, this could be a factor.
    3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS can cause changes in bowel habits, including increased frequency. Other symptoms may include bloating, cramping, or discomfort.
    4. Dietary Factors: Even if your diet hasn’t changed much, certain foods might affect your digestion more at certain times. High-fiber foods, artificial sweeteners, or certain fruits can increase bowel movements.
    5. Infections or Gastrointestinal Conditions: Infections or conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can also cause increased frequency, though these are often accompanied by other symptoms like pain, weight loss, or blood in the stool.
    6. Hydration Levels: While 2L of water is generally a healthy amount, changes in your water intake or your body’s response to hydration might influence your bowel habits.

    Given that this change has been persistent for a few weeks and is starting to concern you, it might be a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider. They can take a detailed history, conduct a physical exam, and possibly run tests to rule out any underlying conditions.

    In the meantime, you might want to monitor any other symptoms, such as changes in the consistency of your stool, any abdominal pain, or changes in weight, and share these with your doctor.

    https://www.helf.co/en

    All responses provided by HELF are generated by its AI architecture. The information shared is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon for medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical concerns, diagnosis or treatment.

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Anonymous
Anonymous

I just believe I have Peyronie’s disease as a guy and would like to figure out how to cure it

  1. If you believe you might have Peyronie's disease, here's what you can do to move forward: 1. Consult a Healthcare Provider Specialist Visit: Make an appointment with a urologist. This specialist can diagnose Peyronie’s disease by assessing the curvature, firmness, or pain in the penis during erectioRead more

    If you believe you might have Peyronie’s disease, here’s what you can do to move forward:

    1. Consult a Healthcare Provider

    • Specialist Visit: Make an appointment with a urologist. This specialist can diagnose Peyronie’s disease by assessing the curvature, firmness, or pain in the penis during erections.
    • Physical Exam and Imaging: The doctor may conduct a physical exam or use imaging techniques like ultrasound to evaluate the extent of the scar tissue and curvature.

    2. Understand Your Treatment Options

    • Observation: For mild cases, doctors sometimes recommend monitoring the condition for a few months to see if it stabilizes or improves.
    • Medication:
      • Oral Medications: Some oral treatments may help in reducing the plaque formation, though their effectiveness can vary.
      • Injections: Medications like collagenase (Xiaflex) can be injected into the scar tissue to help break it down and reduce curvature.
    • Shockwave Therapy: This non-invasive treatment uses sound waves to potentially reduce pain and plaque size, though more research is needed on its effectiveness.
    • Surgical Options:
      • Plication Surgery: Shortening the side of the penis opposite the curve.
      • Grafting: Removing or incising the plaque and using a graft to straighten the penis.
      • Penile Implants: These are often considered when Peyronie’s disease is associated with severe erectile dysfunction.

    3. Explore Lifestyle Changes

    • Healthy Living: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress, as these can improve your overall health and potentially impact the disease progression.

    4. Seek Psychological Support

    • Peyronie’s disease can be emotionally challenging, affecting self-esteem and relationships. Consider counseling or support groups if you feel stressed or anxious about your condition.

    5. Follow Up Regularly

    • Monitoring: Keep regular follow-up appointments to monitor the progression of the condition and adjust treatment as needed.

    If you haven’t already, the most important step is to get a professional diagnosis so that you can receive the most effective treatment for your situation.

    https://www.helf.co/en

    All responses provided by HELF are generated by its AI architecture. The information shared is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon for medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical concerns, diagnosis or treatment.

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Angelica Taron
Angelica Taron

Doc, pwede Po ba mangyari na Ang ECG ko is Hindi Po normal Ang heart beat pero nag take Ako Ng 2d echo, tapos Ang result ponsa 2d echo is normal Po lahat.

  1. Oo, pwede po mangyari na ang ECG (electrocardiogram) ay hindi normal, pero ang resulta ng 2D echo (echocardiogram) ay normal. Ang ECG at 2D echo ay nagmomonitor ng iba't ibang aspeto ng puso. ECG: Sinusuri nito ang electrical activity ng puso. Maaaring magpakita ng irregularities tulad ng arrhythmiaRead more

    Oo, pwede po mangyari na ang ECG (electrocardiogram) ay hindi normal, pero ang resulta ng 2D echo (echocardiogram) ay normal. Ang ECG at 2D echo ay nagmomonitor ng iba’t ibang aspeto ng puso.

    1. ECG: Sinusuri nito ang electrical activity ng puso. Maaaring magpakita ng irregularities tulad ng arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) o iba pang electrical disturbances kahit na ang pisikal na estruktura ng puso ay normal.
    2. 2D Echo: Ito ay isang ultrasound na ginagamit upang makita ang estruktura ng puso at ang pagdaloy ng dugo. Maaaring magpakita ito ng mga isyu sa heart valves, heart chambers, at iba pang structural abnormalities.

    Kaya kahit na may abnormal na resulta ang ECG, kung ang 2D echo ay normal, maaaring may mga aspeto ng electrical activity na hindi naapekto ang estruktura ng puso. Gayunpaman, mahalaga na ipagpatuloy ang konsultasyon sa inyong cardiologist para sa mas detalyadong pagsusuri at tamang pangangalaga.

    https://www.helf.co/en

    All responses provided by HELF are generated by its AI architecture. The information shared is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon for medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical concerns, diagnosis or treatment.

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Aryank
Aryank

What do swollen lymph nodes feel like, are they noticeable and tender and painful to touch? I have noticed some small bumps on neck but they feel more like spot bumps and aren’t painful or sensitive.

  1. This answer was edited.

    Swollen lymph nodes, also known as lymphadenopathy, can vary in size, texture, and tenderness depending on the underlying cause. Here’s a detailed overview of what swollen lymph nodes feel like and what you might consider doing: Characteristics of Swollen Lymph Nodes Size and Shape: Swollen lymph noRead more

    Swollen lymph nodes, also known as lymphadenopathy, can vary in size, texture, and tenderness depending on the underlying cause. Here’s a detailed overview of what swollen lymph nodes feel like and what you might consider doing:
    Characteristics of Swollen Lymph Nodes

    1. Size and Shape: Swollen lymph nodes can range from small (a few millimeters) to large (several centimeters). They may feel like firm, round, or oval lumps under the skin. In some cases, they can be described as “rubbery” or “hard.”
    2. Location: Common areas for swollen lymph nodes include the neck, armpits, and groin. In your case, since you mentioned noticing bumps on your neck, these could potentially be lymph nodes.
    3. Tenderness and Pain: Swollen lymph nodes can be tender or painful to touch, especially if they are inflamed due to an infection. However, not all swollen lymph nodes are painful. If the bumps you feel are not tender or sensitive, they may not be inflamed, which could suggest a different underlying issue.
    4. Associated Symptoms: Swollen lymph nodes are often accompanied by other symptoms, depending on the cause. For example, if they are swollen due to an infection, you might experience fever, fatigue, or localized symptoms like a sore throat or cough. If there are no other symptoms, it may be less concerning.

    What You Can Do

    1. Monitor the Bumps: Keep an eye on the bumps. Note any changes in size, tenderness, or the appearance of new symptoms. If they remain stable and are not associated with other concerning symptoms, they may not require immediate action.
    2. Consult a Healthcare Professional: It is advisable to see a doctor if:
      • The bumps persist for more than a couple of weeks.
      • They increase in size or number.
      • You develop additional symptoms such as fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue.
      • You have any concerns about the nature of the bumps.
    3. Medical Evaluation: During your visit, the doctor will likely perform a physical examination and may ask about your medical history and any associated symptoms. Depending on their findings, they might recommend tests such as blood tests, imaging studies (like ultrasound), or a biopsy to determine the cause of the swollen lymph nodes.
    4. Self-Care: While waiting for your appointment, you can manage any discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if needed. Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet can also support your immune system.

    Conclusion
    Swollen lymph nodes can be a normal response to infection or inflammation, but they can also indicate more serious conditions. Since you mentioned that the bumps are not painful or sensitive, they may not be a cause for immediate concern, but it is always best to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation to rule out any underlying issues.

    https://www.helf.co/en

    All responses provided by HELF are generated by its AI architecture. The information shared is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon for medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical concerns, diagnosis or treatment.

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Anonymous
Anonymous

Hi I was exposed to blood of a patient with HIV who wasn’t taking medication at hospital via needlestick injury. Day 14 post exposure I developed a fever and sore throat which hasn’t gone away it is day 18 now. ...

  1. Unfortunately you need a formal assessment. It may be nothing or a throat infection. It is unusual for HIV seroconversion to occur at 2 weeks, and we never say never. Remember too that the 4th generation testing is better from day 21 onwards. You could have a false negative at your current day 14. FRead more

    Unfortunately you need a formal assessment.

    It may be nothing or a throat infection.

    It is unusual for HIV seroconversion to occur at 2 weeks, and we never say never.

    Remember too that the 4th generation testing is better from day 21 onwards. You could have a false negative at your current day 14. For diagnosis at day 14, you may have to do a HIV proviral testing. This test is different from the regular HIV viral load PCR testing and maybe hard to find in your home country.

    Let us know how you come along. We are here to support you.

    Dr Leong Hoe Nam
    Senior Consultant Infectious Diseases Physician
    Rophi Clinic Singapore
    Website: https://www.rophiclinic.com.sg/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rophiclinic
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RophiClinicYT
    Email: enquiry@rophiclinic.com.sg

    The information provided on this forum is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical concerns, diagnosis or treatment.

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I’m 31 female. Been getting reddish stools, no pain though. at first I saw it was near menses period, so I think could have been menses. but menses no more and its still persists. Not pain and also no changes in ...

  1. It is always best to check with your doctor if there are any changes in your bowel habits, especially if symptoms persist. The gastroenterologist can investigate further to see if the change in stool colour is indeed food-related or not. You can consider stopping the food for few days to see if theRead more

    It is always best to check with your doctor if there are any changes in your bowel habits, especially if symptoms persist. The gastroenterologist can investigate further to see if the change in stool colour is indeed food-related or not.

    You can consider stopping the food for few days to see if the red stool colour disappears, and restart again and see if redness recur.

    More serious causes of red stools can include:

    • Hemorrhoids or anal fissures, which can bleed when passing hard stools.
    • Gastrointestinal bleeding from conditions like ulcers, colon polyps or colon cancer.

    If you experience symptoms like abdominal pain, black stools, fatigue, weight loss, get it checked by a gastroenterologist.

    Dr John Hsiang
    Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist
    https://richmondgastro.com.sg/
    FB – Richmond Gastroenterology Centre
    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552438412862&mibextid=ZbWKwL
    https://www.tiktok.com/@gastrodoc_sg

    The information provided on this forum is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical concerns, diagnosis or treatment.

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Anonymous
Anonymous

Hi. I’m about 8-9 weeks pregnant and I’ve been taking folic acid regularly. I also find myself no appetite to eat sometimes so I bought Similac formula for pregnant/lactating mothers for the extra nutrients. I’ve noted that there’s folic acid inside ...

  1. Congratulations on your pregnancy! It's great that you're being proactive about your nutrition during this important time. Let's address your question regarding folic acid intake. Recommended Folic Acid Intake During Pregnancy During pregnancy, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for folic acid isRead more

    Congratulations on your pregnancy! It’s great that you’re being proactive about your nutrition during this important time. Let’s address your question regarding folic acid intake.

    Recommended Folic Acid Intake During Pregnancy

    During pregnancy, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for folic acid is typically 600 micrograms (mcg). This is to support fetal development, particularly in the early stages when the neural tube is forming. If you have specific risk factors (such as a previous pregnancy affected by a neural tube defect), your healthcare provider may recommend a higher dose, often up to 4 mg daily.

    Sources of Folic Acid

    1. Folic Acid Supplements: If you have been prescribed a folic acid supplement, it is important to know the dosage. Common prescriptions are often around 400 mcg – 1 mg daily.
    2. Similac Formula: The Similac formula for pregnant and lactating mothers typically contains additional nutrients, including folic acid. The amount of folic acid in these formulas can vary, but it is generally designed to complement your dietary intake rather than exceed it.

    Potential for Overdose

    Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin, which means that excess amounts are usually excreted in urine rather than stored in the body. However, excessive intake can still lead to potential issues:

    • Upper Limit: The tolerable upper intake level for folic acid from supplements and fortified foods is set at 1,000 mcg (1 mg) for adults. This limit is primarily to prevent masking vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to neurological issues if not addressed.
    • Combining Sources: If you are taking a folic acid supplement (e.g., 400 mcg) and also consuming the Similac formula (which may contain around 200 mcg to 400 mcg of folic acid per serving), you need to calculate your total intake. For example:
      • Folic acid supplement: 400 mcg
        Similac formula (2 servings): 200 mcg x 2 = 400 mcg
        Total intake: 400 mcg + 400 mcg = 800 mcg
      • In this scenario, your total intake would be 800 mcg, which is below the upper limit and generally considered safe.

    Recommendations

    1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Before making any changes to your supplementation or diet, it’s best to discuss your specific situation with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and dietary needs.
    2. Monitor Your Intake: Keep track of how much folic acid you are consuming from all sources (supplements, food, and fortified products) to ensure you stay within safe limits.
    3. Balanced Diet: While supplements are helpful, try to include a variety of folate-rich foods in your diet, such as leafy greens, legumes, nuts, and fortified cereals, to meet your nutritional needs.
    4. Listen to Your Body: If you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about your appetite or nutrition, reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

    In summary, as long as your total folic acid intake remains below the upper limit and is within the recommended range for pregnancy, you should be fine taking both the supplement and the formula. However, always prioritize communication with your healthcare provider for tailored advice.

    https://www.helf.co/en

    All responses provided by HELF are generated by its AI architecture. The information shared is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon for medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical concerns, diagnosis or treatment.

    See less