Impact of Medications on Blood Sugar Levels: A Patient's Inquiry
Issues related to steroids and blood sugar? Hello, doctor. Six months ago, I measured my fasting blood sugar at a testing center, and the value was 110. Since then, I have been controlling my diet, and my recent readings have been around 83-107. However, I have not yet measured m...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The oral medication you are using does not affect blood sugar levels, and while the topical eczema cream, eye ointment, and eye drops contain steroids, topical steroids generally do not significantly impact blood sugar. Additionally, issues related to inflammation and i...[Read More] Impact of Medications on Blood Sugar Levels: A Patient's Inquiry
Understanding Fasting Insulin Levels: What Do They Mean for Your Health?
Fasting insulin Hello Doctor, thank you for taking the time to respond to my questions! I previously went to the hospital (Metabolism Department) to check for any diabetes-related issues. At that time, my diet remained unchanged, my exercise was moderate, and my stress levels wer...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding the aforementioned report, the opinion of the endocrinologist is similar, and there is no diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is characterized by a lifelong deficiency in insulin production from the pancreas, which is different from insulin resistance, which is more common...[Read More] Understanding Fasting Insulin Levels: What Do They Mean for Your Health?
Understanding Left Armpit Bone Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Pain in the left axilla upon palpation of the bone? In the past week, I have been working 12-hour shifts every day. I have started to experience symptoms such as soreness in my left armpit when pressing on the bone, a bit of shortness of breath, and a rapid heartbeat for several ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you first visit a pulmonology clinic.[Read More] Understanding Left Armpit Bone Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Managing Menopausal Symptoms: Night Sweats, Heart Palpitations, and Insomnia
Menopausal palpitations and insomnia? Hello, I am 53 years old. In 2021, I had a uterine fibroid about 10 cm in size, which was surgically removed along with my uterus, while my ovaries were preserved. Over the past year, I have started experiencing episodes of waking up at night...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello: For menopausal syndrome, please consult a gynecologist to check for hormone reduction. Medication treatment may lead to some improvement.[Read More] Managing Menopausal Symptoms: Night Sweats, Heart Palpitations, and Insomnia
Understanding Mercury Exposure Risks from Broken Fluorescent Bulbs
Addressing Concerns about Fluorescent Light Tubes Hello doctor, recently while changing a fluorescent light bulb, I accidentally dropped and broke it. I immediately used a broom to sweep up the shards. However, when I mentioned this to friends and family, they said that there is ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. JAM: 1. To my knowledge, both fluorescent lamps and compact fluorescent bulbs contain mercury to enhance their functionality. When a fluorescent lamp or compact fluorescent bulb breaks, it does indeed release mercury vapor; however, the amount of mercury is lower compa...[Read More] Understanding Mercury Exposure Risks from Broken Fluorescent Bulbs
Should You Rely on Medication for Diabetes Management?
Diabetes medication issues? Hello, doctor. At the end of May and the beginning of June, my blood sugar was checked at 127, and my hemoglobin A1c was 7.2. The doctor said I have diabetes and prescribed medication for me. A friend mentioned that my levels are not too high and that ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Since you have just been diagnosed with diabetes, I would recommend that you manage your blood sugar through a combination of medication, diet, and exercise. Although your fasting blood sugar in the morning is only slightly elevated, your postprandial blood sugar may be hi...[Read More] Should You Rely on Medication for Diabetes Management?
Understanding Thumb Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Pain upon pressing the fingertip? Hello, recently I have been using my thumb more frequently, and I experience sharp pain when I press down on the tip of the first phalanx of my thumb (causing the tip of the nail to turn white). What could this symptom indicate, and if I need to ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The tenderness in your thumb may be related to issues with the nail, skin, tendons, ligaments, or other soft tissues, and it is less likely to be carpal tunnel syndrome. It is recommended that you visit a family medicine or orthopedic specialist for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Thumb Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
How Soon After COVID-19 Can You Safely Resume Exercise?
How long after recovering from COVID-19 is it advisable to resume exercise? Hello Dr. Lin, I tested positive on June 28, and as of today, June 30, my symptoms have not fully resolved. After my follow-up visit, the doctor provided supportive treatment. Currently, I have intermitte...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Diabetes, unless it involves short-term fluctuations in blood sugar levels, typically causes organ damage through chronic and long-term changes. Additionally, the management of diabetes is not solely reliant on medication; dietary modifications and exercise are also cru...[Read More] How Soon After COVID-19 Can You Safely Resume Exercise?
Understanding Underarm Itching During Coughing or Cold Symptoms
Itchy throat, cough, or during a cold, there is itching in the subcutaneous layer of the armpit? Hello Doctor: This issue has been bothering me for a long time. Whenever I have a scratchy throat, cough, or cold, the skin underneath my right armpit becomes itchy. Each time I ask a...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it may be lymphadenopathy or an infection triggering an allergic reaction. It is recommended that you visit a dermatologist when this occurs.[Read More] Understanding Underarm Itching During Coughing or Cold Symptoms
Morning Hoarseness After Tonsillitis: Is It Normal?
Waking up with a hoarse voice after tonsillitis? Hello Doctor, two Fridays ago, I experienced pain when swallowing saliva and went to a clinic where I was diagnosed with tonsillitis. I took antibiotics for three days, and after finishing the course, the pain subsided. However, si...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your hoarseness in the morning is more likely caused by tonsillitis accompanied by laryngitis. If the hoarseness were due to cancer, it would typically be persistent and may be accompanied by pain, bleeding, difficulty swallowing, neck lumps, and other discomforts. However...[Read More] Morning Hoarseness After Tonsillitis: Is It Normal?
Effective Cleaning Tips for Makeup Users and Their Belongings
Cosmetic cleansing Hello doctor, I would like to ask if a person who wears makeup touches or uses items belonging to someone who does not wear makeup, is general cleaning sufficient? For example, using soap for body parts and alcohol wipes for items, as I am concerned about the p...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Areas of the body contaminated with cosmetics can be cleaned with soap. 2. For items contaminated with cosmetics, you can first use alcohol wipes to clean the area, but if the cleaning effect is not satisfactory, consider using makeup remover products and dish soap to t...[Read More] Effective Cleaning Tips for Makeup Users and Their Belongings
Feeling Sleepy After Meals: Understanding Your Symptoms and Causes
Feeling sleepy after a meal? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing symptoms for several days now. After finishing my meals, I often feel sleepy, have difficulty concentrating, and want to lie down. I also experience chest tightness and sweaty palms, although I don't necess...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, the situation described is difficult to explain with a single disease. First, it is important to rule out any sleep disorders. It is recommended to maintain a regular schedule, going to bed early and waking up early, as well as engaging in regular exercise. Please note tha...[Read More] Feeling Sleepy After Meals: Understanding Your Symptoms and Causes
Understanding Ankle Roughness, Swelling, and Darkening: When to Seek Help
Rough, swollen, and darkened ankles? Recently (about 1-2 weeks ago), I noticed that the skin on my left ankle feels quite rough, accompanied by edema (there are noticeable indentations when pressed). The swollen area is also darker than other parts of the ankle. I have already vi...
Dr. Li Zhenggang Reply:
Hello Mr. X: There are many causes of edema, and based on what you have described, your nephrology examination is normal! You can seek care at the same hospital or at a nearby family medicine or internal medicine facility to review your medical history and symptoms in detail, and...[Read More] Understanding Ankle Roughness, Swelling, and Darkening: When to Seek Help
Accidentally Ingested Compressed Facial Towels: What to Do?
Accidental ingestion of compressed facial towels? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about an adult who accidentally ingested a compressed facial towel. Currently, there are no symptoms. How long should they be monitored? Will it be expelled through bowel movements? How long witho...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Zhang: 1. I do not have knowledge regarding the ingredients, physical and chemical properties, and other additives of the [compressed facial towels]; therefore, I am unable to answer your questions. Additionally, I lack experience in handling such situations. 2. Plea...[Read More] Accidentally Ingested Compressed Facial Towels: What to Do?
Which Specialist Should You See for Breathing and Menstrual Issues?
Which specialty should I consult first for these symptoms? Experiencing shortness of breath and fatigue after minimal exertion, such as walking from the first to the second floor, is concerning. You may notice an increased heart rate and louder heartbeat during these episodes. Ad...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your symptoms of shortness of breath, dizziness, and rapid heartbeat, along with the mention of prolonged menstrual periods, may indicate that increased menstrual flow could be causing anemia, which in turn leads to your discomfort. It is recommended that you first consult...[Read More] Which Specialist Should You See for Breathing and Menstrual Issues?
Understanding OGTT Results: High Fasting Blood Sugar and Discrepancies Explained
OGTT blood test report Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing elevated fasting blood glucose levels for some time, with readings ranging from 95 to 126, mostly between 95 and 105. Therefore, I visited the Metabolism Department for fasting and OGTT (Oral Glucose Tolerance Test) w...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Cherry: 1. Clinically, to diagnose diabetes mellitus, physicians often have fasting patients consume a glucose solution containing 75 grams of glucose. If two tests show postprandial plasma glucose levels ≥200 mg/dL, a diagnosis of diabetes can be made. 2. According to...[Read More] Understanding OGTT Results: High Fasting Blood Sugar and Discrepancies Explained
Understanding Your INR Value: What Does an INR of 0.97 Mean?
INR index: 0.97 Hello, I recently had a blood test at the hospital and checked the results using an app. I found that my INR (International Normalized Ratio) value is 0.97. What does this mean? Thank you!
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, this ratio is used clinically to assess coagulation function. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Your INR Value: What Does an INR of 0.97 Mean?
Effective Medications for Relieving COVID-19 Symptoms
Medications for alleviating COVID-19 symptoms? Hello, I visited the clinic for a COVID-19 diagnosis, and the clinic prescribed several medications to alleviate symptoms, which have been successful. Currently, I am only experiencing excessive phlegm. I would like to know if taking...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen, please take the medication as prescribed for treatment. The medication is commonly used for cough suppression or allergic itching. It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment for the physician to evaluate your condition. Thank you.[Read More] Effective Medications for Relieving COVID-19 Symptoms
Understanding Blood Test Results: Do They Indicate Inflammation or Issues?
Blood test report Hello, doctor. Could you please tell me if the following data indicates inflammation or other issues in the body? Here are the test results: =============================================== White Blood Cell Count: 6.36 (Reference Range: 4.0–11.0) Red Blood Cell C...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Your blood test report shows elevated neutrophil levels and decreased lymphocyte levels. Generally, this raises concerns about potential infections; however, the values are only slightly outside the normal range, and your overall white blood cell count is normal, so it ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Do They Indicate Inflammation or Issues?
Understanding Right Back Pain and Neck Clicking: Causes and Connections
Right back pain and neck cracking sounds? 1. When bending down, I can feel a pain in a muscle on the right side of my back. If I hunch over and bend down, my entire back hurts. 2. When I tilt my head while looking down, I can hear a cracking sound in my neck, and I can feel the b...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your back pain may be related to issues with the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your back. Additionally, the popping sound in your neck could indicate a problem with the cervical spine, and the two may be related. It is advisable to consult a rehabilitation specialist.[Read More] Understanding Right Back Pain and Neck Clicking: Causes and Connections