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Medical Channel Asia Latest Questions

Hi, I have been wearing glasses my whole life n I want to do laser correction. Some of my friends who did lasik say that it went well but one of my friend experienced v dry eyes even until now ...

  1. This answer was edited.

    Hello! I’m Dr Petrina, Senior Consultant Opthalmologist at Eagle Aesthetics & Surgery. I specialise in Oculofacial Plastic Surgery. Refractive surgery can be broadly catergorised into two ways: 1) Laser procedures that flatten the cornea, and 2) Implantable contact lens (nothing to do with the cRead more

    Hello! I’m Dr Petrina, Senior Consultant Opthalmologist at Eagle Aesthetics & Surgery. I specialise in Oculofacial Plastic Surgery.
    Refractive surgery can be broadly catergorised into two ways: 1) Laser procedures that flatten the cornea, and 2) Implantable contact lens (nothing to do with the cornea). Here is an overview of LASIK procedures & implantable contact lens.
    For laser procedures that work on the cornea, these include PRK / EPILASIK, FEMTOLASIK, SMILE. Because these procedures work on the cornea, dry eyes is a by-product and side effect. Some patients do better after the first month but some patients may need constant lubricant eyedrops even after some time. Prior to refractive surgery like LASIK, we will screen our patients for dry eyes.

    • PRK or EPILASIK removes the outer surface of the cornea with either a blade or alchohol. An excimer laser is then applied to flatten the cornea. The outer surface of the cornea then heals in 1 week.
    • FEMTOLASIK is whereby a femtosecond laser creates a flap, thereafter the excimer laser is applied to flatten the cornea. The flap is then respoitioned.
    • SMILE is whereby a femtosecond laser makes a small wound at the side of the cornea, the laser also fashions a pocket of tissue such that the surgeon can remove that pocket of cornea tissue to bring about a “flattening” of the cornea.

    On the other hand, implantable contact lens (ICL) procedure has no lasering of the cornea and thus no problems with dry eyes. It is highly recommended for patients with high degrees of shortsightedness (like yourself) as we preserve as much cornea as we can.
    If you have any concerns about your options for shortsightedness, feel free to reach out for more information. Happy to help answer any more questions!
    Dr Petrina Tan
    Senior Consultant Opthalmologist
    Eagle Aesthetics & Surgery, Eagle Eye Centre
    Instagram: @drpetrina_eyedoc

    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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Hi!!! I have acl surgery scheduled in 2weeks and I’m start to prep myself (mentally and logistically) since it’ll be one of my friends helping me recover (not living with family) I’m putting together a list of things I may need after ...

  1. This answer was edited.

    Hi Yong Quan, As a knee surgeon, I’ve seen my fair share of post-op patients. A few things I would recommend adding to your care package for post-op: Hot/Cold pack – Keeping the area iced will help with pain and swelling at the start. You can rotate icing 20 minutes on/off. You can use the pack forRead more

    Hi Yong Quan, As a knee surgeon, I’ve seen my fair share of post-op patients. A few things I would recommend adding to your care package for post-op:

    • Hot/Cold pack – Keeping the area iced will help with pain and swelling at the start. You can rotate icing 20 minutes on/off. You can use the pack for warm compress down the road
    • Shower stool/chair – You may not feel strong enough to stand initially and the shower can be slippery so this can be helpful
    • Extra pillows and Ortho Wedge – This can help to keep you in a stable position in bed, and propping your knee up helps with the swelling too
    • Stool softener – The pain meds and inactivity after surgery can cause constipation, so stay regular with a stool softener and enough fibre in your diet, you wouldn’t want to strain

    Remember to follow post-op instructions from your surgeon and physical therapist, especially rehab exercises, to enhance your healing journey. Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Feel free to reach out to me if any other questions come up, and all the best for your upcoming surgery.

    Dr Sean Leo
    Orthopaedic Knee Surgeon
    Orthokinetics Singapore

    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

I realised that my penis is not normal. is a quite curved and a bit painful. I found out 2 yrs ago. i got ask my GP but he say its normal that penis is not straight, but I think ...

  1. Thank you for your question. It's understandable to be concerned if your penis curves more than you think is normal and it causes pain. Here's some information that might be helpful: Slight Curvature is Common: Many penises have a slight curve, up, down, or to the side. This is usually nothing to woRead more

    Thank you for your question.

    It’s understandable to be concerned if your penis curves more than you think is normal and it causes pain. Here’s some information that might be helpful:

    Slight Curvature is Common: Many penises have a slight curve, up, down, or to the side. This is usually nothing to worry about.

    Painful Curvature Could Indicate Peyronie’s Disease: A condition called Peyronie’s disease can cause scar tissue to form in the penis, leading to a more pronounced curve and pain during erections. This could be what you’re experiencing. Peyronie’s Disease is a condition where the penis becomes curved, making erections painful or difficult. This can cause significant emotional and psychological distress for those affected. Although Peyronie’s Disease can affect any man, research suggests that it is more common in men of Asian descent. It is estimated that approximately 5% of men in Asia have Peyronie’s Disease.

    Talking to a Doctor is Important: Since you have pain and a significant curve, it’s best to see a doctor again, especially a urologist (a specialist in the urinary tract and male reproductive system). They can do a physical exam and discuss your concerns.

    Treatment options for Peyronie’s Disease depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, doctors may suggest a wait-and-see approach, as the condition may improve on its own. In more severe cases, however, treatment may include medication to reduce the pain, injections of medication into the penis to reduce curvature or surgery to remove the plaque and reconstruct the penis.

    Here are some resources you might find helpful:

    Remember, this information from Medical Channel Asia is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consulting a doctor is crucial to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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Eunice Lee
Eunice Lee

I noticed my urine is light pink colour and there is small blood stain in my urine. Should I go and see doctor?

  1. This answer was edited.

    Thank you for asking the question. For a more in-depth look at blood in the urine, please find this article helpful: There's Blood in My Urine! What Do I Do? Having blood in your urine, even if it's just a light pink tinge, can be concerning. It's important to understand that while it can be causedRead more

    Thank you for asking the question. For a more in-depth look at blood in the urine, please find this article helpful: There’s Blood in My Urine! What Do I Do?

    Having blood in your urine, even if it’s just a light pink tinge, can be concerning. It’s important to understand that while it can be caused by harmless things, it could also indicate a more serious underlying condition. Here’s what you should do:

    • See a doctor as soon as possible: They can perform tests to determine the cause of the blood and recommend the appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention are key for some conditions.

    In the meantime, here are some possible explanations for light pink urine:

    • Urinary tract infection (UTI): This is a common cause and often accompanied by burning or pain during urination.
    • Kidney stones: These can irritate the urinary tract and cause bleeding.
    • Strenuous exercise: Very intense workouts can sometimes cause microscopic blood in the urine.
    • Certain medications: Blood thinners or some antibiotics can cause pink urine.
    • Other, less common causes: These include bladder inflammation, enlarged prostate (in men), or certain cancers.

    Remember, this information from Medical Channel Asia is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consulting a doctor is crucial to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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I have a ringing sound in the ear. My doctor does not think it is serious. Is it a sign of a health problem?

  1. Thank you, Gerald, for sharing your experience with tinnitus, commonly known as ringing in the ear. Tinnitus is quite common and typically isn't a sign of a serious health issue. However, if it worsens or becomes chronic (lasting more than three months), it can significantly impact your mood and sleRead more

    Thank you, Gerald, for sharing your experience with tinnitus, commonly known as ringing in the ear.

    Tinnitus is quite common and typically isn’t a sign of a serious health issue. However, if it worsens or becomes chronic (lasting more than three months), it can significantly impact your mood and sleep.

    If your tinnitus persists or interferes with your daily life and sleep, it’s crucial to have it evaluated by an ENT specialist. Tinnitus can stem from various causes, including:

    • Exposure to loud noise
    • Age-related hearing loss
    • Ear injuries or infections
    • Medication side effects
    • Tumors like acoustic neuroma

    An ENT specialist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to pinpoint the exact cause of your tinnitus and rule out any serious conditions. This evaluation may include a physical examination, hearing tests, and imaging scans.

    Once the cause is identified, your ENT doctor can recommend the most suitable treatment plan, which may include:

    • Sound therapy to mask the tinnitus
    • Medications to manage related conditions or underlying infections
    • Hearing aids if there’s associated hearing loss
    • Lifestyle changes such as stress reduction and avoiding loud noises

    I would encourage you to schedule an appointment with an ENT specialist for a thorough assessment and to discuss the next steps for managing your tinnitus. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

    Dr Valerie Tay
    Senior Consultant Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Surgeon
    https://www.aspire-ent.sg/
    https://www.instagram.com/drvalerietay/

    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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diggydoo
diggydoo

I have a mole on my leg that is growing for the past 5 years. It’s round and black and used to be flat but now a bit raised. Still uniform in shape and colour so it’s not skin cancer ...

  1. Thank you for your question! This article helps explain more about your symptoms: https://medicalchannelasia.com/moles-when-should-i-be-worried/ Moles in general are common skin growths that develop when melanocytes, pigment-producing cells in your skin, cluster together. These clusters cause the daRead more

    Thank you for your question!

    This article helps explain more about your symptoms:

    https://medicalchannelasia.com/moles-when-should-i-be-worried/

    Moles in general are common skin growths that develop when melanocytes, pigment-producing cells in your skin, cluster together. These clusters cause the darkening of the skin and can appear anywhere on your body, including the scalp, genitals, and inside your mouth.

    Most moles are harmless and typically appear during childhood and adolescence. You can have anywhere from 10 to 40 moles by adulthood, and they may change in color, size, and texture over time. Some moles may even fade away completely.

    Here are some characteristics of moles:

    • Color: Moles can vary in color from light brown to black, pink, red, tan, or even blue.
    • Size: Most moles are smaller than a pencil eraser (about 6 millimeters or ¼ inch in diameter).
    • Shape: Moles can be round, oval, or irregular in shape.
    • Texture: Moles can be flat, smooth, raised, or wrinkled. They may also have coarse hairs growing out of them.

    While most moles are benign (noncancerous), some can be cancerous. Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, can develop from a mole. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of melanoma.

    Here are some tips for monitoring your moles:

    • The ABCDE rule: This rule can help you identify moles that may be cancerous.
      • Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other half.
      • Border: The border of the mole is irregular, notched, or blurred.
      • Color: The mole has more than one color, or the color changes within the mole.
      • Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimeters (¼ inch) in diameter.
      • Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.
    • Perform regular skin self-exams: Look for any new moles or changes in existing moles. Pay particular attention to moles in areas you don’t normally see, such as your back or scalp.
    • See a doctor: If you notice any changes in a mole, see a doctor or dermatologist for a professional evaluation.

    If you’re experiencing any skin issues, it is best to consult a Dermatologist doctor to determine the cause and receive proper treatment. This information from Medical Channel Asia is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consulting a doctor is important to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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I have had terrible headache for the past 3 weeks. Its on and off. Very painful and sometimes its pulsating. I check my blood pressure all seems to be normal. Should i go for an appointment to scan my head? ...

  1. Really? My mother also been complaining of headache. Last time take Panadol ok but now not enough. She going to see pain specialist in 2 weeks. Maybe u try.

    Really? My mother also been complaining of headache. Last time take Panadol ok but now not enough. She going to see pain specialist in 2 weeks. Maybe u try.

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I’m a 15 year old girl and I regularly sleep 8 hours or more. However, I feel very tired during the day and I wake up feeling very groggy and unrested. My sister (who sleeps in the same room as ...

  1. The following answer is provided by HELF AI (www.HELF.co), a next-gen AI backend built to power the health & wellness industry.

    Feeling tired despite getting 8 hours of sleep and waking up groggy could indicate that your sleep quality, rather than the quantity, might be the issue. Snoring or loud breathing could be signs of a sleep-related problem, such as sleep apnea or other breathing disturbances. Here are some possibilitRead more

    Feeling tired despite getting 8 hours of sleep and waking up groggy could indicate that your sleep quality, rather than the quantity, might be the issue. Snoring or loud breathing could be signs of a sleep-related problem, such as sleep apnea or other breathing disturbances. Here are some possibilities:

    1. Sleep Apnea:

    • What It Is: Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing temporarily stops and starts during sleep. This can lead to fragmented sleep, even if you’re in bed for 8 hours.
    • Symptoms: Snoring, loud breathing, daytime fatigue, and waking up feeling unrested are common signs.
    • Next Steps: If you suspect sleep apnea, it’s important to talk to a doctor. They may recommend a sleep study to monitor your breathing patterns during the night.

    2. Sleep Hygiene:

    • Routine: Maintaining a consistent sleep routine, with a regular bedtime and wake-up time, helps improve sleep quality.
    • Environment: Ensure your sleep environment is comfortable and quiet. If your room is noisy or too bright, this could also affect your rest.

    3. Other Factors:

    • Diet and Exercise: Eating well and exercising can improve your energy levels. However, heavy meals or intense exercise too close to bedtime can interfere with sleep.
    • Stress or Anxiety: Emotional stress can lead to restless sleep. If you’re dealing with stress, relaxation techniques before bed, like reading or deep breathing exercises, might help.

    4. Medical Consultation:

    • Since you’re feeling consistently tired and your sister has noticed loud breathing or snoring, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare provider. They can help determine if there’s an underlying issue, like a sleep disorder, and guide you toward improving your sleep quality.

    If this fatigue is affecting your daily life or school performance, seeking advice sooner rather than later is a good idea.

    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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I’ve recently been diagnosed with lung cancer, despite never having smoked a day in my life. I’m puzzled by how this could have happened and curious about the possible causes of lung cancer in non-smokers. Could there be other factors ...

  1. There are still a few risk factors that can cause cancer in a non-smoker. Number 1, second-hand smoke. Chronic exposure to second-hand smoke can cause cancer. Even if you don’t smoke, but your surrounding family members or friends smoke, second-hand smoke can cause cancer. Second is chronic chemicalRead more

    There are still a few risk factors that can cause cancer in a non-smoker. Number 1, second-hand smoke. Chronic exposure to second-hand smoke can cause cancer. Even if you don’t smoke, but your surrounding family members or friends smoke, second-hand smoke can cause cancer. Second is chronic chemical exposure, such as radon or asbestos. If you work in a factory that produces radon or asbestos, there is an increased risk of having lung cancer. Third, medical history. If you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pulmonary fibrosis, a long-standing of infection will cause inflammation of the lung. It will subsequently lead to lung cancer. The fourth factor is genetically linked. Certain non-smoker lung cancers have this gene EGFR and ALK, which is specifically found in non-smokers. This can mutate and cause lung cancer.
    There are ways to screen for lung cancer. We normally do a low-dose CT scan every year to screen for lung cancer. Please contact your healthcare professional for this screening.

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I’ve noticed that a family member is showing signs of depression, and I’m concerned about how to best support them. They seem withdrawn, disinterested in activities they used to enjoy, and have been expressing feelings of sadness and hopelessness. I’m ...

  1. Here are some options for Singapore!   National Care Hotline: 1800-202-6868 (8am-12am daily, from 1 Sep 2020)  Mental Well-being- Fei Yue’s Online Counselling Service- Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline (6389-2222)- Samaritans of Singapore (1800-221-4444)- Silver Ribbon SingapoRead more

    Here are some options for Singapore!
     

    National Care Hotline: 1800-202-6868 
    (8am-12am daily, from 1 Sep 2020)
     Mental Well-being
    – Fei Yue’s Online Counselling Service
    – Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline (6389-2222)
    – Samaritans of Singapore (1800-221-4444)
    – Silver Ribbon Singapore (6385-3714)
     Marital and parenting issues
    – Community Psychology Hub’s Online Counselling platform
     Violence or abuse
    – Big Love Child Protection Specialist Centre (6445-0400)
    – HEART @ Fei Yue Child Protection Specialist Centre (6819-9170)
    – PAVE Integrated Services for Individual and Family Protection (6555-0390)
    – Project StART (6476-1482)
    – TRANS SAFE Centre (6449-9088)
     Counselling
    – TOUCHline (Counselling) – 1800 377 2252
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