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Medical Channel Asia Latest Questions

Anonymous
Anonymous
Asked: February 3, 2025

Hi, so I woke up with a UTI today and it’s really annoying but I don’t have time to go to the doctor today :(( Will UTI go away on it’s own? Can I just wait awhile and be okay?

  1. Dr Say Wei Xian (General Practitioner)
    Dr Say Wei Xian (General Practitioner) Registered Doctor under the Malaysia Medical Council

    I know dealing with a UTI can be really uncomfortable, especially when you’re busy, but it’s important to start treatment as soon as possible. The bacteria multiply quickly and even waiting a few hours can make things feel much worse. You might notice symptoms like burning sensation when you pee, feRead more

    I know dealing with a UTI can be really uncomfortable, especially when you’re busy, but it’s important to start treatment as soon as possible. The bacteria multiply quickly and even waiting a few hours can make things feel much worse. You might notice symptoms like burning sensation when you pee, feeling like you need to go all the time (even if hardly anything comes out), or that your bladder doesn’t feel completely empty after you go. Worsening of these symptoms usually means that the infection is spreading and becoming more severe.

    While some mild infections might clear up on their own, there’s no guarantee, and waiting too long can let the infection spread to your kidneys. That can lead to more serious problems like fever, chills, and a deep, aching pain in your lower back, which can be much harder to treat and make you feel really unwell. Hence, it’s best to start treatment as soon as possible.

    Personally, I really recommend that you see a doctor as soon as possible so you can get started on antibiotics. In the meantime, drink plenty of water to help flush out the bacteria. If you’re feeling uncomfortable, taking some ibuprofen or paracetamol can help ease the pain. You might also find Phenazopyridine (e.g., Pyridium, Azo, Uristat) helpful. These are over-the-counter medication that can relieve the burning sensation when you urinate. Just keep in mind that they only help with symptoms and doesn’t actually treat the infection, so antibiotics are still necessary.

    If you start feeling worse, develop fever, chills, or pain in your back, or if your symptoms don’t improve within a day, I really urge you see your general practitioner straight away. I know it’s frustrating to have to deal with this when you’re busy, but the sooner you start antibiotics, the quicker you’ll feel better and avoid complications.

    Dr Say

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Thinesh
Thinesh
Asked: April 20, 2025

I keep having gout attacks but I already very careful with my diet, no alcohol, no red meat, no seafood. What other things can cause it?? And can I keep taking the gout medicine when I have attacks, worried it ...

  1. HELF AI
    HELF AI
    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 frustrating to feel like you're doing everything right and still experience gout attacks. Besides your diet, there are several factors that might be contributing to frequent flare-ups. Stress, dehydration, and certain medications like diuretics and aspirin can sometimes elevate uric acid levelsRead more

    It’s frustrating to feel like you’re doing everything right and still experience gout attacks. Besides your diet, there are several factors that might be contributing to frequent flare-ups. Stress, dehydration, and certain medications like diuretics and aspirin can sometimes elevate uric acid levels. Ensure you’re drinking plenty of water daily to help your body flush out this excess uric acid.

    Regarding medication, it’s understandable to be concerned about its potential impact on your liver or kidneys. Many gout medications are safe for long-term use, but it’s crucial that they are managed properly. Always follow your physician’s guidance regarding medication during a gout attack. If you have any worries about the medication you’re on, or if you think it might be affecting your liver or kidney function, it would be a good idea to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can monitor your organ health through regular check-ups and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

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grandwalker
grandwalker
Asked: June 19, 2024

36 year old male here, im thin with no known underlying medical conditions.2 days ago, I felt pain in my right calf. It feels aching and heavy, and deeper inside than a usual muscle ache. Only ache and no swelling ...

  1. Dr Tang Tjun Yip (The Vascular & Endovascular Clinic)
    Best Answer
    Dr Tang Tjun Yip (The Vascular & Endovascular Clinic)

    Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins of your body, such as those in your legs or arms. Left untreated, the clot could dislodge and travel to your lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism - a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Some key warningRead more

    Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins of your body, such as those in your legs or arms. Left untreated, the clot could dislodge and travel to your lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism – a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.

    Some key warning signs of DVT include aching pain, swelling, tenderness in tue calf. Pain with walking or movement of the affected area is also common. However, the absence of some characteristic symptoms does not rule out DVT, as some patients may only report mild ache or heaviness in the leg. At the same time, while most leg pains are not due to DVT, it is important to get any concerning symptoms properly evaluated expediently, especially if they persist for days and does not improve in severity. The easiest thing is to put it down to a muscle strain. Risk factors for developing a DVT in the leg include trauma, dehydration, immobility, recent air travel especially long haul and a family history of clotting problems.

    I would not recommend taking aspirin on your own without seeing a vascular specialist first, as that could potentially worsen bleeding risks especially if you have pre-existing conditions such as a stomach ulcer. The best thing to do is schedule an appointment with a vascular surgeon to have your leg examined. We can perform a tailored physical exam and history taking to assess the likelihood of a DVT, and initiate further tests like a Duplex ultrasound scan and blood test marker to diagnose or rule out a DVT. Early detection and treatment are important for preventing longer term complications such as post thrombotic syndrome where the leg can feel particularly heavy when standing or walking for a long time and is associated with skin problems such as ulceration. The earlier you diagnose a DVT, the quicker you can be started on blood thinners and the more likely you can make a full recovery by dissolving all the clot. You can expect an ultrasound scan to be performed on the same day you are seen and and you will be informed whether you have a DVT or not.

    Do make an appointment promptly for an evaluation. If your symptoms significantly worsen or you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain or palpitations, you should seek immediate medical attention. Let me know if you have any other questions.

    Dr Tang Tjun Yip
    Senior Vascular and General Surgeon
    The Vascular & Endovascular Clinic
    https://vascularclinic.sg/
    https://www.facebook.com/theveclinic/
    https://www.instagram.com/theveclinic/

    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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Amber Lam
Amber Lam
Asked: July 1, 2024

My dad just had a gallbladder surgery and he’s recuperating fine. Just wondering if there is anything specific I should be looking out for him or supporting him in recovery. Heard he can’t eat oily food? Can he still ...

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

    I'm glad to hear your dad's surgery went well. Here are some general guidelines for post-gallbladder surgery recovery: Dietary Adjustments: Avoid fatty and oily foods: Since the gallbladder helps digest fats, without it, the liver will still produce bile, but in smaller, continuous amounts. To helpRead more

    I’m glad to hear your dad’s surgery went well. Here are some general guidelines for post-gallbladder surgery recovery:

    1. Dietary Adjustments:
      • Avoid fatty and oily foods: Since the gallbladder helps digest fats, without it, the liver will still produce bile, but in smaller, continuous amounts. To help with digestion, it’s best to avoid greasy, fried, and high-fat foods for a while. Gradually reintroduce fats to see how his body tolerates them.
      • Small, frequent meals: This can be easier on the digestive system than large meals.
      • Fiber-rich foods: Help prevent constipation, but increase fiber intake gradually to avoid bloating.
      • Alcohol: It’s best to avoid alcohol in the early recovery period. Later, moderate consumption may be allowed, but it’s important to consult with the surgeon or doctor about when it’s safe.
    2. Monitoring for Complications:
      • Digestive issues: It’s common to have some digestive changes, like diarrhea, after the surgery, but these usually improve over time.
      • Infection signs: Watch for signs of infection like fever, increased pain, redness, or swelling at the incision site.
      • Bowel movements: Ensure normal bowel function returns. Severe constipation or diarrhea should be reported to the doctor.
    3. Activity Levels:
      • Rest: Encourage him to rest and gradually resume normal activities.
      • Avoid heavy lifting: For at least a few weeks, he should avoid lifting anything heavy or doing strenuous activities.
    4. Follow-up Appointments: Make sure he attends all scheduled follow-ups with his surgeon.

    It’s great that he’s recuperating well. Encourage him to follow his doctor’s specific advice, as they can provide the most personalized guidance for his recovery.

    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
Asked: July 11, 2024

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

    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.

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Fatimah
Fatimah
Asked: February 19, 2025

My big toe damn pain lah, think it’s ingrown. The side of my right big toe is red, swollen, and throbbing like crazy. Tried soaking in warm salt water but macam no difference leh. Any home remedies that actually work ...

  1. Mr. Benedict Khoo, Principal Podiatrist, Straits Podiatry
    Mr. Benedict Khoo, Principal Podiatrist, Straits Podiatry Principal Podiatrist

    However, if the above steps provide no relief, that generally means that the nail spike is pretty deep, and if the spike continues to be there, things can get worse. Fret not, in this day and age, we no longer need to take out the entire nail just to resolve an ingrown toenail. That is regarded as uRead more

    However, if the above steps provide no relief, that generally means that the nail spike is pretty deep, and if the spike continues to be there, things can get worse. Fret not, in this day and age, we no longer need to take out the entire nail just to resolve an ingrown toenail. That is regarded as unnecessary, and will cause a much bigger wound for you to take care. The current treatment for ingrown toenails are mainly 3 option:

    1. First is known as a “slant back”, which is basically trimming the portion of the nail spike away without cutting too deep towards the root. This is helpful when the spike is not near the nail root at all, or the shape of the nail is largely normal.
    2. The second method is known as a “partial nail avulsion”, which basically removes a small portion of the nail all the way down to the nail root. Think of it like treating a wisdom tooth, you are just remove the tooth that is causing the problem, but the other teeth stay. After the nail is removed, we could also put in a chemical to stop that portion of the nail from growing back, so that will put an end to your suffering permanently. This method is generally recommended for cases where the spike is very close to the nail root, or the edge of the nail curves deeply into the flesh (resulting in recurring ingrown toenail)
    3. The third option is relatively new, known as “nail bracing”. This involves putting a “brace” over the nail plate to try and hold the shape of the nail such that it doesn’t grow into the flesh. This is only useful if the shape of your nail (at the base of the nail) is considered normal and not involuted (or curving into the flesh).

    We hope this gives you a better idea on the management of ingrown toenail, and hope that you received help for your problem.

    Benedict Khoo,
    Principal Podiatrist, Straits Podiatry.
    Website: http://www.straitspodiatry.com/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Straits.Podiatry

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lhansford1182
lhansford1182
Asked: January 11, 2025

Hi, i’ve had a headache for week now, accompanied with dizziness. i’ve taken every medicine i feel like, even pseudoephedrine to relieve congestion, and nothing is helping!!! help!

  1. Dr Say Wei Xian (General Practitioner)
    Dr Say Wei Xian (General Practitioner) Registered Doctor under the Malaysia Medical Council

    I’m sorry to hear you’ve been feeling this way. Experiencing a persistent headache and dizziness for over a week, especially after trying various medications, is not normal and should be properly addressed. I strongly recommend that you see a doctor as soon as possible to undergo a thorough examinatRead more

    I’m sorry to hear you’ve been feeling this way. Experiencing a persistent headache and dizziness for over a week, especially after trying various medications, is not normal and should be properly addressed.

    I strongly recommend that you see a doctor as soon as possible to undergo a thorough examination and receive an accurate diagnosis. While over-the-counter medications like those for tension headaches or sinus congestion might help with common issues, they’re not designed to treat underlying or more complex causes of your symptoms. A doctor will be able to identify the root cause and create a treatment plan tailored specifically to your condition.

    It’s also important to note that taking multiple over-the-counter medications without medical guidance can carry risks. Every medicine has potential side effects, and some can interact with others in ways that may worsen symptoms or lead to other complications. It’s always safer to seek professional advice rather than continuing to self-treat.

    Your symptoms might also be linked to something like high blood pressure (hypertension) or low blood pressure (hypotension), which can both cause headaches and dizziness. A doctor will be able to check your vital signs and carry out further relevant tests to diagnose your condition.

    Please do see a doctor soon. Early intervention can make a big difference, and it’s the best way to ensure you get the right medications and start feeling better.

    Dr. Say
    Medical Officer

    Disclaimer: 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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Angelica Taron
Angelica Taron
Asked: August 7, 2024

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

    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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