Doc Suppor with Dr. Ken Jeong: Answering Your Burning Medical Questions

Summary

Join Dr. Ken Jeong as he answers various medical questions from Twitter users in this Q&A session. From the differences between stomach flu and hangovers to the potential hazards of taking too much vitamin C, Dr. Jeong imparts his expertise on a range of subjects. He also offers advice on the dangers of removing skin tags at home, the significance of the knee reflex test, and the importance of seeking medical attention for chronic leg pain or spasms. Read on for a comprehensive rundown of some of the most common medical questions that people may have.

Stomach flu or hangover: How do I know the difference?
Can too much vitamin C be harmful to our health?
Is it alright to remove a skin tag on our own?
What’s the importance of the knee reflex test?
How can we check our pulse?
Can we survive with only one kidney?
Why do I always get leg cramps or spasms?
What are the three parts of the brainstem?
Can we drink alcohol while taking erythromycin?
How can we treat sinus headaches and pressure?
Why is my eye twitching?
Is drinking too much water bad for our kidneys?

Stomach flu or hangover: How do I know the difference?

The terms stomach flu and hangover can be used interchangeably without proper knowledge, and it is essential to discern their differences. Dr. Jeong recommended that one should always think before tweeting as there are established doctors on the internet, like Dr. Jeong and his friend Louis. If one were to question whether they have stomach flu or hangover, Dr. Jeong would ask about their drinking and eating habits. For example, drinking too much alcohol can lead to dehydration, while stomach flu causes diarrhea and vomiting. It is always best to seek medical attention and avoid self-diagnosis.

Can too much vitamin C be harmful to our health?

Frequent viewers of medical shows may recall scenes where the characters ponder whether to take a particular supplement. Dr. Jeong noted that taking too many vitamins could lead to hypervitaminosis. For example, taking excessive amounts of vitamin C can cause symptoms such as gastrointestinal issues. Instead, Dr. Jeong suggests that a daily intake of 100% of the recommended amount is sufficient.

Is it alright to remove a skin tag on our own?

A skin tag or skin polyp is a lesion that can be found anywhere on the body, and removing it at home is not recommended. Dr. Jeong strongly advised against ripping it off as it could lead to more significant problems. Professionals can numb the area and clip it off or freeze it with liquid nitrogen, which does not cause any pain. He urged the person who inquired to have a qualified professional deal with the issue.

What’s the importance of the knee reflex test?

Some individuals may question whether the knee reflex test is useful, but Dr. Jeong asserts that it is not a prop and that it is vital. The knee is connected to the leg bone by a tendon called the tibia, and the knee reflex test can check the reflexes of this area. The test checks the nervous system and can check for low levels of thyroid in the body, which could lead to symptoms like hyporeflexia. Therefore, the knee reflex test is essential and not to be mocked.

How can we check our pulse?

Dr. Jeong had a hilarious response to this question, stating that checking one’s pulse is as simple as checking it on the neck or the wrist. He said that even a baby could tell someone how to check their pulse.

Can we survive with only one kidney?

Dr. Jeong stated that we could survive with a single kidney as many individuals willingly donate kidneys to those who need them due to kidney failure. As long as the remaining kidney is functioning normally, we can get by.

Why do I always get leg cramps or spasms?

Leg pain or spasms could be caused by a myriad of issues and could be neurological or endocrinological in nature. Instead of listing issues that may be the root cause, Dr. Jeong recommends seeking medical attention from a physician to determine the cause of the cramps or spasms.

What are the three parts of the brainstem?

The brainstem is composed of three parts, namely the medulla, pons, and midbrain. The medulla controls breathing, the pons links the cerebellum to the cerebrum, and the midbrain is responsible for rudimentary vision and hearing.

Can we drink alcohol while taking erythromycin?

Erythromycin can cause stomach upset as it is metabolized in the liver, and Dr. Jeong advises against drinking any alcoholic substances while taking the medication. He generally discourages drinking alcohol while taking antibiotics since they are metabolized in the liver, and too much alcohol could be toxic to the liver.

How can we treat sinus headaches and pressure?

If a person has experienced sinus headaches and pressure for several weeks, Dr. Jeong suggests considering antibiotics to treat the issue. It would be best to seek medical help from a general practitioner or an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor.

Why is my eye twitching?

Twitching in the eye could be due to inadequate sleep or excessive caffeine intake, and Dr. Jeong advises getting more rest and avoiding excess caffeine.

Is drinking too much water bad for our kidneys?

Dr. Jeong cautioned that drinking too much water is not healthy since it could lead to hyponatremia. He recommended getting a sodium level check from a general practice doctor to avoid any issues with increased water intake.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Jeong has shared his expertise and answered some of the most common medical questions that people may have. From stomach flu versus hangovers, kidney health, and the importance of seeking medical attention, it is essential to note that self-diagnosing and treating is not advisable. Dr. Jeong encourages all Twitter users to seek medical attention and the appropriate help they may need.