Common Health Issues: Dizziness, Cholesterol, and Home Blood Sugar Testing

Q: Common Health Issues: Dizziness, Cholesterol, and Home Blood Sugar Testing

Hello： <br>1. <br>Creatinine is typically a concern when elevated, as high levels indicate declining kidney function, while low levels are often due to lower body weight or muscle mass. <br>The TC/HDL ratio reflects whether there is sufficient good cholesterol (HDL), which has a

Dizziness, low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, abnormal white blood cell count, home blood glucose monitoring, painless hematuria?

1.
[Adult Health Check, Results Indicated in Red, What Does It Mean?]
Examination Date: 10/19/2022
Test Code: 09015C Creatinine - Blood
Test Result: 0.6 mg/dL
Test Code: 09043C High-Density Lipoprotein - Cholesterol TC/HDL
Test Result: 3
2.
[Emergency Visit for Dizziness, Results Indicated in Red, What Does It Mean?]
Examination Date: 10/04/2022
Test Code: 08013C White Blood Cell Differential Count EOSIN
Test Result: 0.3% / Reference Range [0.5][7.5]
Test Code: 08013C White Blood Cell Differential Count LYMPH
Test Result: 19.0% / Reference Range [20.7][49.2]
Test Code: 08013C White Blood Cell Differential Count NEUT
Test Result: 76.7% / Reference Range [41.8][70.8]
3.
[How to Properly Monitor Blood Sugar at Home?]
I want to know if I have diabetes and how to correctly monitor it, including the duration and timing.

4.
[Bone Island Detected in the Sixth Rib]
X-ray findings indicate this; what does it mean? Neither orthopedic nor thoracic specialists could provide an explanation.

5.
[Is This Heart Disease?]
I have been evaluated by a cardiologist for mitral valve prolapse and arrhythmia (previous myocardial infarction).
I have not received treatment, but this month I started climbing stairs, and the difference is significant.
I experience increased shortness of breath, fatigue, edema, and oliguria, with my weight suddenly increasing by 3 kg.
What is the underlying issue: bladder, kidney, lung, or heart?
6.
[Painless Hematuria for 10 Years]
I have calcifications seen on bladder X-ray; which specialty should I consult? What disease could this indicate? I have seen a nephrologist, but it has only been for monitoring.
Recently, a doctor mentioned this should be addressed by a urologist.
I kindly ask for a thorough and patient response from the physician.

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/05

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello:
1.
Creatinine is typically a concern when elevated, as high levels indicate declining kidney function, while low levels are often due to lower body weight or muscle mass.
The TC/HDL ratio reflects whether there is sufficient good cholesterol (HDL), which has a protective effect against cardiovascular disease; therefore, a lower TC/HDL ratio is generally better.
2.
Eosinophils (EOSIN) refer to eosinophilic white blood cells, and elevated levels are usually concerning as they may be associated with allergic conditions, while low levels typically have little significance.
Lymphocytes (LYMPH) indicate lymphocyte counts, and low levels may raise concerns about potential bacterial infections.
Neutrophils (NEUT) refer to neutrophilic white blood cells, and elevated levels may also indicate a possible bacterial infection.
3.
The diagnosis of diabetes typically involves not only self-monitoring of blood glucose but also a blood test for glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) to assess average blood glucose levels over the past three months.
If you are testing your blood glucose at home, it is recommended to check fasting blood glucose in the morning; a level of 126 mg/dL or higher raises concerns for diabetes.
Additionally, testing blood glucose two hours after a meal, with a level of 200 mg/dL or higher, is also concerning for diabetes.
Lastly, a random blood glucose level of 200 mg/dL or higher should also prompt concerns about diabetes.
4.
A bone island refers to abnormal bone growth and calcification, which is usually benign.
If there are no symptoms, follow-up X-rays can be performed to monitor for any changes.
5.
If you have a history of mitral valve prolapse, arrhythmias, and myocardial infarction, it may significantly impact heart function.
Severe cases can progress to heart failure.
Symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, edema, and oliguria when climbing stairs are typical signs of heart failure, and it is advisable to seek medical attention from a cardiologist as soon as possible.
6.
If you have hematuria and calcifications noted on a bladder X-ray, it may be necessary to consider bladder stones.
It is generally recommended to consult a urologist for follow-up or to consider further evaluation and management.

Reply Date: 2023/04/05

More Info

Understanding common health issues such as dizziness, cholesterol levels, and home blood sugar testing is crucial for maintaining overall health. Let’s break down your questions and concerns systematically.

1. Cholesterol and Kidney Function Tests:
- Your test results show a creatinine level of 0.6 mg/dL, which is generally considered within the normal range for kidney function. Normal creatinine levels typically range from 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL, depending on various factors including age, gender, and muscle mass. A level of 0.6 mg/dL suggests that your kidneys are functioning well.

- The TC/HDL ratio of 3 indicates a favorable cholesterol profile. A lower ratio is better, as it suggests a higher level of good cholesterol (HDL) relative to total cholesterol. This is beneficial for cardiovascular health.

2. Dizziness and Blood Test Results:
- The blood test results from your emergency visit show eosinophils at 0.3%, which is below the normal range (0.5-7.5%). Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions and fighting parasites. A low eosinophil count is generally not a cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms.

- Your lymphocyte count is at 19.0%, which is also lower than the normal range (20.7-49.2%). Lymphocytes are crucial for immune response. A low count may indicate a variety of conditions, including stress, infections, or other underlying health issues. The neutrophil count at 76.7% is elevated, which could suggest an ongoing infection or inflammation.

3. Home Blood Sugar Testing:
- To accurately monitor your blood sugar at home, you should use a glucometer. It’s best to test your blood sugar in the morning before eating (fasting) and two hours after meals. This will give you a comprehensive view of your blood sugar levels throughout the day.

- Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your glucometer, including how to prepare your finger for testing and how to interpret the results. Regular monitoring can help you identify patterns and manage your blood sugar effectively.

4. Bone Island Detected on X-ray:
- A bone island, or enostosis, is a benign (non-cancerous) growth of bone that is often found incidentally on X-rays. It typically does not require treatment unless it causes pain or other symptoms. If your doctors are unsure, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from an orthopedic specialist.

5. Heart Health Concerns:
- Given your history of heart issues, including mitral valve prolapse and arrhythmia, along with recent symptoms of increased shortness of breath, fatigue, and sudden weight gain, it’s essential to consult a cardiologist. These symptoms could indicate heart failure or other cardiovascular problems. The sudden weight gain and edema (swelling) could be related to fluid retention, which is often a sign of heart issues.

6. Painless Hematuria and Calcium Deposits:
- Painless hematuria (blood in urine) persisting for ten years warrants thorough investigation. Since you’ve already seen a nephrologist, it’s advisable to consult a urologist, as they specialize in urinary tract issues. The calcium deposits could indicate a variety of conditions, including kidney stones or other urinary tract abnormalities.

In summary, it’s essential to follow up with your healthcare providers regarding your test results and symptoms. Regular check-ups, a healthy diet, and lifestyle modifications can significantly impact your overall health. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Your health is paramount, and proactive management is key to preventing complications.

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