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Medical Channel Asia Latest Questions

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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husband-sleep-throwaway
husband-sleep-throwaway

I’m worried about my husband’s sleep schedule & how it’s impacting our relationship and family life. Any advice is apreciated. We have been married for 15 years and have two young children (3M, 5F), with another on the way (6m pregnant). ...

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

    It sounds like you're facing a difficult situation with your husband's sleep habits, especially with the demands of parenting, pregnancy, and managing your own rest. His early wake-ups, energy drinks, and evening screen time are likely affecting his sleep quality, even if he falls asleep quickly. ThRead more

    It sounds like you’re facing a difficult situation with your husband’s sleep habits, especially with the demands of parenting, pregnancy, and managing your own rest. His early wake-ups, energy drinks, and evening screen time are likely affecting his sleep quality, even if he falls asleep quickly. These habits can lead to poor rest and persistent tiredness, which may also be worsened by his loud snoring—possibly a sign of sleep apnea. His sleep issues are clearly impacting your relationship and family life, leaving you with little couple time and a heavy load with the kids’ routines.

    To approach this, have an open and caring conversation, explaining how his habits are affecting both of you. Suggest he visit a doctor to check for possible sleep disorders, like sleep apnea, and gently encourage reducing energy drinks and screens before bed to improve his rest. It’s important to find a way to reconnect as a couple, even briefly, before he goes to sleep. Also, consider solutions for his snoring, such as nasal strips or a sleep study, and prioritize your own sleep as much as possible during this stressful time.

    This approach can help both of you feel better, reconnect, and find more balance in your relationship and family life.

    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 been experiencing chest pains lately, and I’m curious about what could be causing them. They seem to come and go, sometimes accompanied by shortness of breath or discomfort in my arms. Could this be a sign of something serious, ...

  1. It could be angina. Angina is defined as chest pain precipitated by effort and relieved by rest or the medication nitroglycerine. There can be some subtle symptoms, like fatigability and shortness of breath. It occurs when part of your heart muscle does not get enough oxygen-rich blood. You should hRead more

    It could be angina. Angina is defined as chest pain precipitated by effort and relieved by rest or the medication nitroglycerine. There can be some subtle symptoms, like fatigability and shortness of breath. It occurs when part of your heart muscle does not get enough oxygen-rich blood. You should have a check with your doctor. They will do an ECG and check your medical history to confirm if it is coronary artery disease.

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I’m interested in learning about the various types of birth control pills available. I’ve heard there are different formulations with different hormone combinations and delivery methods. Can you explain the differences between them and how they work?

  1. Most pill control pills are combination pills. They contain one oestrogen and one progesterone. They are all different in micrograms of hormones. They are all 99% efficient at preventing pregnancy. It just depends on which one works best for each individual.

    Most pill control pills are combination pills. They contain one oestrogen and one progesterone. They are all different in micrograms of hormones. They are all 99% efficient at preventing pregnancy. It just depends on which one works best for each individual.

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Hi, I’m Syafiqah. I work as a safety officer at a factory (see picture attached). Lately our foreign staff was diagnosed with TB and is not under treatment and quarantined. My question is: 1) What are the symptoms of TB?

  1. This answer was edited.

    I understand you're concerned about a coworker who has TB. Here's information on tuberculosis (TB) symptoms: https://medicalchannelasia.com/understanding-tuberculosis-prevention-strategies-in-light-of-singapores-recent-outbreak/ Symptoms of Active TB: A cough that lasts longer than 3 weeks (may cougRead more

    I understand you’re concerned about a coworker who has TB. Here’s information on tuberculosis (TB) symptoms:

    https://medicalchannelasia.com/understanding-tuberculosis-prevention-strategies-in-light-of-singapores-recent-outbreak/

    Symptoms of Active TB:

    • A cough that lasts longer than 3 weeks (may cough up mucus or blood)
    • Chest pain or pain with coughing or breathing
    • Fever
    • Chills
    • Night sweats
    • Weight loss
    • Loss of appetite
    • Feeling tired or exhausted
    • Not feeling well in general

    Important to Note:

    https://medicalchannelasia.com/world-tuberculosis-day-2023/

    • People with latent TB infection (inactive TB) don’t have symptoms and can’t spread TB to others.

    If your coworker has some of these symptoms, it’s crucial they see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing the spread of TB.

    Here’s what you can do:

    • Encourage your coworker to seek medical attention.
    • Maintain good ventilation in your workplace. This helps reduce the risk of airborne transmission.
    • Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands frequently and avoid sharing personal items.

     

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

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

    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.

    See less

I’m 55 this year and my friends keep telling me to go for a PSA test to check for prostate cancer… But I read online that high PSA doesn’t always mean cancer, and low PSA also doesn’t mean confirm safe. ...

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

    The decision to undergo prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing for prostate cancer screening is indeed a nuanced one, particularly at your age of 55. It’s commendable that you are seeking to understand the implications of the test before making a decision. Understanding PSA Testing 1. PSA Overview:Read more

    The decision to undergo prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing for prostate cancer screening is indeed a nuanced one, particularly at your age of 55. It’s commendable that you are seeking to understand the implications of the test before making a decision.

    Understanding PSA Testing

    1. PSA Overview: PSA is a protein produced by both normal and malignant prostate cells. Elevated levels can indicate prostate cancer, but they can also arise from benign conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostatitis. Conversely, some men with prostate cancer may have normal PSA levels.

    2. Limitations of PSA Testing:
    False Positives: A high PSA level does not definitively indicate cancer. Many men with elevated PSA levels do not have prostate cancer, leading to unnecessary anxiety and further invasive testing.
    False Negatives: Conversely, some men with prostate cancer may have normal PSA levels, which can lead to a false sense of security.
    Overdiagnosis and Overtreatment: Many prostate cancers are indolent and may not require immediate treatment. Screening can lead to the diagnosis of cancers that would not have caused harm during a man’s lifetime, resulting in overtreatment and associated complications.

    Recommendations for Screening

    Given your age and the complexities surrounding PSA testing, here are some considerations to guide your decision:

    1. Risk Factors: Assess your personal risk factors. If you have a family history of prostate cancer (especially in first-degree relatives), or if you are of African descent, your risk is higher, and discussing screening with your healthcare provider may be more urgent.

    2. Shared Decision-Making: Engage in a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider. This conversation should cover:
    – Your personal and family medical history.
    – The potential benefits and harms of screening.
    – Your preferences regarding knowing your cancer status and the implications of treatment options.

    3. Age and Life Expectancy: At 55, you are at an age where many guidelines suggest beginning discussions about screening. However, consider your overall health and life expectancy. If you have significant comorbidities, the potential benefits of screening may be outweighed by the risks.

    4. Informed Consent: If you choose to proceed with the PSA test, ensure you understand what the results may mean and the next steps should the results be abnormal. This includes understanding the possibility of further testing, such as a biopsy, and the implications of a cancer diagnosis.

    Conclusion

    Ultimately, the decision to undergo PSA testing should be personalized, taking into account your individual risk factors, preferences, and the potential implications of the results. It is essential to have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider, who can help you navigate this decision based on your specific circumstances. If you decide to proceed with the test, remember that it is just one piece of the puzzle in understanding your prostate health.

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