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Medical Channel Asia Latest Questions

Gul Afshan
Gul Afshan

My RBC count is 5.11 in my CP blood test report.  what is this and why its mark as red. is it dangerous sign. ?

  1. Hello, this is something a lot of people ask when reviewing their blood test results. Firstly, let me explain what RBC count is. Your RBC count refers to the number of red blood cells in a given volume of blood, typically in one microliter (µL). These cells are responsible for carrying oxygen througRead more

    Hello, this is something a lot of people ask when reviewing their blood test results.

    Firstly, let me explain what RBC count is. Your RBC count refers to the number of red blood cells in a given volume of blood, typically in one microliter (µL). These cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body, so they’re quite essential for your overall health.

    For context, the normal range is usually around 4.7-6.1 million cells/µL for adult men, and about 4.2 -5.4 million cells/µL for adult women. Your result of 5.11 falls within this range.

    However, different labs may use slightly different reference ranges. So even if your result is considered normal, it might still be flagged in red if it sits near the upper or lower end of that lab’s cut-off. It doesn’t always mean something is wrong, but it may be highlighted for closer review.

    A higher RBC count can sometimes be linked to things like dehydration, smoking or certain lung conditions. A lower count may point toward anaemia, which can result from iron or vitamin deficiencies, chronic illness, or blood loss.

    That said, we usually don’t make conclusions based on one number alone. To get a clearer picture, it’s important to look at it together with other values in your blood test, such as haemoglobin, haematocrit, and MCV, as well as your overall health and any symptoms you might have.

    So, if you’re unsure or just want peace of mind, I’d recommend going through the full report with your doctor.

    Regards,

    Dr Say

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Yacob
Yacob

Hi, I recently went for a check-up and the doctor said my blood pressure a bit high. He asked me to monitor and might need to start medication soon. But to be honest, I’m quite scared to start, heard once ...

  1. It’s a very common concern—many patients feel the same way when they hear they may need to start blood pressure medication. And just to reassure you, we don’t keep people on medication for no reason. Blood pressure medication isn’t something you take forever by default. It’s prescribed to manage a cRead more

    It’s a very common concern—many patients feel the same way when they hear they may need to start blood pressure medication. And just to reassure you, we don’t keep people on medication for no reason.

    Blood pressure medication isn’t something you take forever by default. It’s prescribed to manage a condition. If the root cause of your high blood pressure is addressed—like through diet, weight management, or regular exercise—there is a chance the medication can be reduced or even stopped. But this needs to be done properly. Stopping too early, before things are well controlled, can increase the risk of stroke, heart disease, or kidney problems.

    There are many types of blood pressure medications, and they’re not all the same. If you’re experiencing side effects, it’s important to bring it up—there are often alternatives that can be better suited.

    Home monitoring is also very helpful, especially when first starting medication or adjusting doses. Some people experience white coat hypertension, where blood pressure readings are higher in the clinic than at home—so home readings give a more accurate picture.

    Also, just because your BP reading looks fine for a day doesn’t mean the issue has resolved. The medication could be what’s keeping it controlled. Skipping or stopping it on your own could cause your blood pressure to spike unexpectedly.

    And it’s totally understandable to be concerned about long-term effects on the kidneys or liver. That’s why regular follow-ups are important—your healthcare provider will know which blood tests to run and what to keep an eye on based on the medication you’re on.

    If you have concerns, do bring them up at your next visit. It’s always worth having that conversation so expectations can be properly managed.

    Regards,
    Dr Say.

    Reference:
    Clinical Practice Guidelines – Management of Hypertension, 5th Edition (2018), Ministry of Health Malaysia.

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Hi there, I am having an issue with my skin. I have eczema and sometimes it gets worse when I am feeling stressed or when the weather gets too humid. How can I mitigate this? Thank you.

  1. Dr Paul Yow
    Best Answer
    Dr Paul Yow https://eagleeyeaesthetics.com.sg/doctors/dr-paul-yow/

    Hi, I’m Dr. Paul Yow – Director of Aesthetic Medicine at Eagle Aesthetics and Surgery and I hope the following answer will be useful to you! You have correctly identified that stress and weather/environmental changes can trigger eczema flares in persons with sensitive skin or difficult to manage eczRead more

    Hi, I’m Dr. Paul Yow – Director of Aesthetic Medicine at Eagle Aesthetics and Surgery and I hope the following answer will be useful to you!

    You have correctly identified that stress and weather/environmental changes can trigger eczema flares in persons with sensitive skin or difficult to manage eczema. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to mitigate the flares and soothe the skin faster.

    1. Moisturizing is key to maintaining a healthy skin barrier and reducing the number of flares you do experience. Even if the skin looks to be ok, I would still advocate the regular use of moisturisers to keep your skin healthy. 
      With regards to which type – as there are many brands out there, I would advise for a moisturizer that is adequate for your lifestyle and one that does not irritate your skin. For example – you can consider a thicker moisturiser for the night especially if you sleep in an airconditioned room. The main takeaway would be to find a moisturiser that you will apply frequently and just keep reapplying it.
    2. Seek treatment early.
      In the case of a bad flare, it is always good to see a doctor early to review the condition and see if medical treatment such as topical steroids to control the flare or anti-histamines to control the itch are required. Delaying a review can often lead to a prolongation of the flare and may contribute to other side effects such as excoriations and infections from scratching at the eczema sites.
    3. Avoid triggers.
      If there are certain instances or products you know will cause a flare – do your best to avoid them to reduce the chance of a flare occurring.

    If you have any concerns about your options, feel free to reach out for more information. Happy to help answer any more questions!

    Dr. Paul Yow
    Director of Aesthetic Medicine
    Eagle Aesthetics & Surgery
    Instagram: Dr. Paul Yow

    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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nazifah.ahmad
nazifah.ahmad

My father had stroke 4 months ago and we bring him for rehab 2 times a week. Got some improvement after that, he can walk with a cane and move his hand a bit. But now like stuck already, not ...

  1. Dr. Nor Azira Ismail
    Dr. Nor Azira Ismail Consultant Rehabilitation Medicine Physician, IHT Rehab

    Hi there. Good to know your father is recovering from his stroke. The first 6 months following stroke is the ‘golden time’ for neurological recovery. However we do still see improvements beyond 6 months. Twice per week rehabilitation may not be adequate for your father. I would advise a more comprehRead more

    Hi there. Good to know your father is recovering from his stroke. The first 6 months following stroke is the ‘golden time’ for neurological recovery. However we do still see improvements beyond 6 months. Twice per week rehabilitation may not be adequate for your father. I would advise a more comprehensive stroke rehabilitation program comprising of physiotherapy for physical strengthening, occupational therapy for hand function training and also retraining for activities of daily living and rehabilitation specialist assessment to assess if he is developing complications like spasticity and spasm.

    Dr. Nor Azira Ismail
    Consultant Rehabilitation Medicine Physician
    IHT Rehab (https://www.ihtrehab.com/)
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nor-azira-ismail-a4a5493a

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Anonymous
Anonymous

Hi. My 9 y/o has developed this rough / bumpy patch on his shoulder. Would this be a matter of concern?

  1. Dr. Joyce Lim (Joyce Lim Skin & Laser Clinic)
    Dr. Joyce Lim (Joyce Lim Skin & Laser Clinic) Dr. Lim is a dermatologist who treats skin, hair and nail problems in both adults and children. Besides medical dermatology, Dr. Lim has the expertise to treat aesthetic skin problems as well as perform laser and skin surgery. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Lim conducts teaching sessions for dermatologists and aesthetic doctors.

    Thanks for sharing the image of the skin problem in question. It is difficult to give specific advice without a proper skin examination. It looks like a benign skin rash on an area of pigmented skin. It is better to consult a dermatologist in person to have a proper examination and decide on the diaRead more

    Thanks for sharing the image of the skin problem in question. It is difficult to give specific advice without a proper skin examination. It looks like a benign skin rash on an area of pigmented skin. It is better to consult a dermatologist in person to have a proper examination and decide on the diagnosis and treatment 

    Dr Joyce Lim
    Consultant Dermatologist
    Joyce Lim Skin & Laser Clinic
    http://www.joycelim.com

    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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laser123
laser123

Hi, I’m interested to know more about fractional lasers. I’ve heard that it’s good for sagging skin and acne scars, was wondering if it would also help to shrink my pores? What are some of the benefits of going for ...

  1. Dr Paul Yow
    Dr Paul Yow https://eagleeyeaesthetics.com.sg/doctors/dr-paul-yow/

    Hi, I’m Dr. Paul Yow – Director of Aesthetic Medicine at Eagle Aesthetics and Surgery and I hope the following answer will be useful to you! You’re absolutely right – fractional lasers do help stimulate collagen production and can be an effective method to rejuvenate the skin and target texture concRead more

    Hi, I’m Dr. Paul Yow – Director of Aesthetic Medicine at Eagle Aesthetics and Surgery and I hope the following answer will be useful to you!
    You’re absolutely right – fractional lasers do help stimulate collagen production and can be an effective method to rejuvenate the skin and target texture concerns of scarring and pores as well as fine lines.

    There can be some overlap between PICO and fractional lasers but generally speaking with fractional lasers, we are referring to a class of lasers such as the Carbon Dioxide laser or Halo Laser that causes microscopic columns of damage to the skin to trigger a wound healing response to improve the skin. With PICO lasers, we are referencing a class of lasers based on their speed / rate of fire, i.e. they fire a laser beam at ultrashort picosecond pulses, and when people refer to them, they are traditionally referring to PICO lasers to help even out skin tone and treat hyperpigmentation.
    However, as laser technology advances – you will find many new PICO lasers have settings or handpieces to operate as both a fractional as well as toning (anti-pigmentation) device and this can be changed based on what your doctor is planning in that session for you.

    If you have any concerns, feel free to reach out for more information. Happy to help answer any more questions!

    Dr. Paul Yow
    Director of Aesthetic Medicine
    Eagle Aesthetics & Surgery
    Instagram: Dr. Paul Yow

    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.

    See less
Anonymous
Anonymous

Hi, I’ve been having headaches every single day normally around three of them. They start of kind of sharp and go into a more pressure type of headache with random sharp pains. I’ve also been having a really hard time ...

  1. 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 sorry to hear that you're experiencing these troubling symptoms. It's important to take them seriously, as they could indicate a range of underlying issues that may require medical attention. Let's break down your symptoms and consider potential causes, as well as the importance of seeking furthRead more

    I’m sorry to hear that you’re experiencing these troubling symptoms. It’s important to take them seriously, as they could indicate a range of underlying issues that may require medical attention. Let’s break down your symptoms and consider potential causes, as well as the importance of seeking further evaluation.

    Symptoms Overview

    1. Headaches:
      You describe having daily headaches that start sharp and transition into a pressure-like sensation. This pattern could suggest a tension-type headache or a migraine, but the sharp pains and pressure could also indicate other issues, such as increased intracranial pressure or a neurological condition.
    2. Cognitive Difficulties:
      Difficulty focusing, reading, and spelling can be concerning, especially if these issues are new and represent a change from your previous abilities. This could be related to the headaches, or it might indicate cognitive impairment due to other factors.
    3. Weakness and Coordination Issues:
      The sudden weakness in your right leg and difficulty walking, along with stumbling and tripping, could suggest neurological involvement. This might be due to a number of conditions, including but not limited to multiple sclerosis, a transient ischemic attack (TIA), or other neurological disorders.
    4. Visual Disturbances:
      The perception of seeing everything covered in dots, which can be described as visual snow or floaters, may indicate a visual processing issue or could be related to migraines.
    5. Memory Problems:
      Difficulty recalling symptoms and having poor memory can be associated with cognitive dysfunction, which might be linked to the headaches or other neurological issues.
    6. Fatigue and Breathing Issues:
      Extreme tiredness and trouble breathing are significant symptoms that should be evaluated, especially if they are worsening.

    Potential Causes

    Given the combination of your symptoms, several potential causes could be considered:

    • Migraine or Tension-Type Headaches: These can cause cognitive symptoms and visual disturbances.
    • Neurological Disorders: Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, transient ischemic attacks, or even more serious conditions like brain tumors or strokes could present with your symptoms.
    • Cervical Spine Issues: Problems in the neck can lead to headaches, weakness, and coordination issues.
    • Metabolic or Endocrine Disorders: Conditions such as thyroid dysfunction or diabetes can cause fatigue, cognitive issues, and weakness.
    • Anxiety or Depression: These can manifest with cognitive difficulties, fatigue, and physical symptoms like headaches.

    Recommendations

    1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given the severity and combination of your symptoms—especially the weakness in your leg, cognitive difficulties, and visual disturbances—it is crucial to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. These symptoms could indicate a serious condition that requires prompt intervention.
    2. Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their duration, and any triggers you notice. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.
    3. Communicate with Your Doctor: When you see your doctor for your breathing issues, make sure to discuss all of your symptoms, even if they seem unrelated. It’s important for your doctor to have a complete picture of your health.
    4. Consider a Neurological Evaluation: Depending on your doctor’s assessment, they may refer you to a neurologist for further evaluation, including imaging studies (like an MRI or CT scan) and possibly other tests to assess your cognitive function and neurological health.
    5. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it’s natural to look for explanations for your symptoms, it’s important to avoid self-diagnosing. Only a healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

    Conclusion

    Your symptoms are concerning and warrant immediate medical evaluation. Please prioritize seeing a healthcare provider who can assess your condition comprehensively. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for many neurological and other health conditions.

    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 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.

    See less
jibran
jibran

my hands and foots are cold most of the time.  what could be the cause and how to prevent.

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

    Experiencing cold hands and feet frequently can be attributed to a variety of factors, ranging from benign physiological responses to more serious underlying medical conditions. Here are some potential causes and preventive measures to consider: Potential Causes 1. Physiological Responses: - VasoconRead more

    Experiencing cold hands and feet frequently can be attributed to a variety of factors, ranging from benign physiological responses to more serious underlying medical conditions. Here are some potential causes and preventive measures to consider:

    Potential Causes

    1. Physiological Responses:
    Vasoconstriction: In response to cold temperatures, blood vessels constrict to preserve core body heat, which can lead to cold extremities.
    Raynaud’s Phenomenon: This condition causes intermittent vasospasm of the small blood vessels in the fingers and toes, leading to episodes of color change (white, blue, red) and coldness, often triggered by cold or stress.

    2. Circulatory Issues:
    Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Reduced blood flow due to narrowed arteries can result in coldness in the extremities, often accompanied by pain or cramping during physical activity.
    Diabetes: Poor circulation and neuropathy associated with diabetes can lead to cold extremities.

    3. Neurological Conditions:
    Peripheral Neuropathy: Damage to peripheral nerves can disrupt normal temperature sensation, leading to feelings of coldness in the hands and feet.

    4. Hormonal Factors:
    Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid can slow metabolism and reduce heat production, resulting in cold extremities.
    Anemia: Low hemoglobin levels can impair oxygen delivery to tissues, leading to coldness.

    5. Lifestyle Factors:
    Smoking: Nicotine causes vasoconstriction, reducing blood flow to the extremities.
    Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can impair circulation.

    Preventive Measures

    1. Dress Appropriately:
    – Wear warm, layered clothing, including thermal socks and gloves, to maintain body heat. Mittens are often warmer than gloves due to reduced surface area exposure.

    2. Improve Circulation:
    – Engage in regular physical activity to promote blood flow. Activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming can enhance circulation.

    3. Manage Stress:
    – Stress management techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises, can help reduce episodes of Raynaud’s phenomenon.

    4. Avoid Smoking:
    – Quitting smoking can improve circulation and reduce vasoconstriction.

    5. Diet and Hydration:
    – Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron and vitamins to support overall health. Staying hydrated can also help maintain good circulation.

    6. Warm Environment:
    – Keep your living and working spaces warm, especially during colder months. Consider using heating pads or warm water soaks for your hands and feet.

    7. Medical Consultation:
    – If symptoms persist or are accompanied by pain, color changes, or ulcers, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. They may perform diagnostic tests to rule out conditions such as PAD, diabetes, or thyroid dysfunction.

    Conclusion

    Cold hands and feet can be a common issue, but understanding the underlying causes is essential for effective management. By implementing preventive measures and seeking medical advice when necessary, you can improve your symptoms and overall quality of life. If you have any specific concerns or if your symptoms worsen, please consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and tailored management plan.

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Anonymous
Anonymous

I did a home sleep test recently and this was the report. I thought I have sleep apnoea as my wife said thre are times when I sound like I am choking during sleep. AHI was normal but there were ...

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

    Based on your description, your home sleep test raises some potential concerns, despite a normal Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI). Here are some considerations and insights tailored to your situation: 1. Oxygen Desaturation Concerns: An oxygen saturation level dropping to 78% is significant. Normally, oxyRead more

    Based on your description, your home sleep test raises some potential concerns, despite a normal Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI). Here are some considerations and insights tailored to your situation:

    1. Oxygen Desaturation Concerns: An oxygen saturation level dropping to 78% is significant. Normally, oxygen saturation during sleep should remain above 90%. A desaturation to 78% can suggest episodes of hypoxemia. This finding warrants further investigation, as recurrent or severe hypoxemia can have adverse effects, including those on cardiovascular and neurocognitive health.

    2. Hypopnea Episodes: The presence of hypopneas, even with a normal AHI, is noteworthy. It’s important to consider which criteria were used to define hypopneas, as some definitions emphasize oxygen desaturation while others focus on EEG arousals. Both can contribute to reduced sleep quality and daytime symptoms like fatigue and sleepiness.

    3. Limitations of Home Sleep Tests: While home sleep tests can be convenient, they often have limitations in detecting certain types of sleep-disordered breathing, particularly those without significant apneas or if events occur primarily in REM sleep or specific positions not well captured at home. Home tests also typically have limited channels compared to a full in-lab polysomnography (PSG), which can provide more comprehensive data.

    4. Respiratory Effort-Related Arousals (RERAs): Consider whether the term RDI (Respiratory Disturbance Index), which includes RERAs, was evaluated. If there were RERAs present, they might explain the discrepancy between your symptoms and a normal AHI.

    5. Clinical Correlation: It’s important to correlate these findings with your clinical symptoms and history. Persistent symptoms, such as the choking sensation your wife observed and any associated daytime sleepiness or fatigue, should be evaluated further.

    Recommendations:

    Follow-Up with a Sleep Specialist: Discuss these findings with a sleep specialist. They might recommend an in-lab polysomnography for a more thorough evaluation, which could include measuring additional parameters like sleep stages and more nuanced respiratory effort assessment.

    Lifestyle and Environmental Modifications: Until further evaluation, consider lifestyle modifications such as weight management, positional therapy (avoiding supine sleep which can exacerbate obstructive events), and avoiding alcohol or sedatives before bed, as these can worsen sleep-disordered breathing.

    Additional Monitoring: In some cases, repeated or more detailed monitoring might be suggested, especially if initial investigations do not clearly explain your symptoms.

    Given the complexity and the potential for significant health implications, a detailed clinical assessment is critical to effectively interpret your sleep study results and guide appropriate treatment.

    Remember, individualized evaluation and management based on a comprehensive review of both clinical data and personal symptoms are key in sleep medicine.

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