Does Hyperthyroidism Increase Your Risk of Severe Colds?
Is it easy for individuals with thyroid antibodies to become ill? Doctor, I would like to ask, I have hyperthyroidism and am currently undergoing treatment, but I get colds very easily, and each time they are quite severe. Is this related to my hyperthyroidism? I couldn't fi...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Hyperthyroidism generally does not cause immune system issues; however, medications for hyperthyroidism may lead to leukopenia as a side effect (which varies depending on individual constitution). This is more likely to occur during the initial phase of treatment. Please consult ...[Read More] Does Hyperthyroidism Increase Your Risk of Severe Colds?
Does Chest X-Ray Radiation Affect the Thyroid? Prevention Tips
Thyroid issues Does the radiation from a chest X-ray affect the thyroid gland? Are there ways to avoid it?
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Hyperthyroidism is mostly related to stimulation by autoantibodies, but it may also be associated with iodine ions, medications, or other causes. Currently, there is no clear evidence that radiation causes hyperthyroidism. Technicians who are frequently exposed to high doses of r...[Read More] Does Chest X-Ray Radiation Affect the Thyroid? Prevention Tips
Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis Standards and Insurance Implications
Diabetes Diagnosis Criteria Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my situation. Recently, when I applied for insurance, I was denied coverage because I truthfully disclosed that I had a HbA1c level as high as 9.0. However, since then, I have maintained my HbA1c between 6.0 and...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
In general, diabetes is diagnosed with a fasting blood glucose level of 126 mg/dL or higher, a hemoglobin A1c level of 6.5% or higher, or a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test result of 200 mg/dL or higher. Early-stage diabetes can achieve good blood glucose control through dietar...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis Standards and Insurance Implications
Can Dental X-Rays Trigger Hyperthyroidism in Patients with Thyroid Issues?
Will dental X-rays induce hyperthyroidism? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask if the X-rays taken at a general dental clinic can induce hyperthyroidism. I had an ultrasound that showed some enlargement of my thyroid, and my TSH receptor antibodies fluctuate. However, my TSH and fr...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Hyperthyroidism is mostly related to stimulation by autoantibodies, but it may also be associated with iodine, medications, or other factors. Currently, there is no clear evidence that radiation causes hyperthyroidism.[Read More] Can Dental X-Rays Trigger Hyperthyroidism in Patients with Thyroid Issues?
Understanding Weight Loss and Appetite Issues in Diabetic Patients
Diabetes-related issues? The doctor would like to ask, my dad has diabetes and is on medication for control. Recently, he has been losing weight and says he has no appetite; he can't eat the food on the table. Is this related to the medication or could it be a sign of anothe...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Some oral medications for diabetes may cause side effects such as abdominal bloating and may also lead to slight weight loss. If the weight loss is significant, it is important to consider whether high blood sugar levels are causing dehydration; however, other conditions may also...[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss and Appetite Issues in Diabetic Patients
Understanding Diabetes Risk: Home Testing vs. Professional Evaluation
Concerns about diabetes? I have a family history of diabetes; my father and grandmother have it, while my mother's side only has my grandmother. When I was a freshman in college, I had a health check-up, and my fasting blood glucose level was 105 mg/dL, with no glucose in my...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Fasting blood glucose levels between 100 and 126 mg/dL indicate impaired fasting glucose, while levels above 126 mg/dL are diagnostic for diabetes. Blood test results are generally more accurate. Capillary blood glucose readings can also be referenced. Individuals with impaired f...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Risk: Home Testing vs. Professional Evaluation
Chest Pain After Cold Medicine: When to See a Doctor?
After taking cold medicine, eating food causes a feeling of tightness (pain) in the chest? Hello, I visited the doctor for the first time and after taking the medication, my cold didn't improve, so I went to a second doctor. After taking the first packet of medication, I sta...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
If medication is taken without sufficient water or with too little water, the drug may remain in the esophagus, potentially causing localized ulcers and discomfort. If pain occurs while eating, it is important to consider issues related to the throat or esophagus, and a visit to ...[Read More] Chest Pain After Cold Medicine: When to See a Doctor?
Understanding Nipple Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Nipple pain? Dear Dr. Tsai, Hello, recently I have been experiencing pain when touching my nipples, and I am unsure of the underlying condition. Which specialty should I consult? Thank you!
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
There are differences between males and females; females may need to consider their menstrual cycle, while males should check for conditions such as gynecomastia. It is recommended to consult a general surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Nipple Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide for Patients
Postprandial blood glucose is lower than preprandial blood glucose? Dear Doctor, three months ago my fasting blood glucose was 128 mg/dL. Three months later, my fasting blood glucose is 131 mg/dL, my postprandial blood glucose is 111 mg/dL, and my hemoglobin A1c is 7.0%. Shouldn&...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Generally, postprandial blood glucose levels are higher than preprandial levels; however, this can vary based on dietary content and individual factors such as insulin sensitivity and the secretion levels of insulin and glucagon. A hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level below 7% is accepta...[Read More] Understanding Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide for Patients
Effective Treatments for Numb Toes in Elderly Patients with Diabetes
Toe numbness The patient is 83 years old and has been experiencing numbness in the toes for the past year or two. They have tried soaking in hot water and electrotherapy, but the results have been unsatisfactory. The patient has a history of hypertension and diabetes. What treatm...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
After several years of diabetes, some patients may develop neuropathy, which is related to the control of blood glucose levels. A common form of polyneuropathy is the sensation of numbness in the extremities, gradually extending towards the body. Currently, there is no cure for n...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Numb Toes in Elderly Patients with Diabetes
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms and Specialist Consultation
Mediterranean anemia (also known as thalassemia) Hello doctor, a few years ago I had surgery at the hospital and was diagnosed with Mediterranean anemia. The hospital said my hemoglobin level was seven, but I didn't feel dizzy at that time. However, in the past few days, I&#...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
There are different types of Mediterranean anemia, varying in severity. If hemoglobin levels are low at around 7 and symptoms are present, blood transfusion may be considered, and it is advisable to consult a hematologist.[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms and Specialist Consultation
Understanding Neurological Imbalance: Symptoms and Next Steps
Regarding neuro imbalance? Hello Doctor: My father is 62 years old and has a history of diabetes for about 6 years, which has been well controlled. This morning (October 14), he suddenly experienced dizziness, blurred vision (only in the left eye, with double vision), nausea, and...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Sudden onset of dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, and cold sweats may indicate hypoglycemia. If possible, checking fingertip blood glucose levels can provide confirmation; if immediate testing is not feasible, consuming sugar cubes or juice can be helpful. If there is uncontroll...[Read More] Understanding Neurological Imbalance: Symptoms and Next Steps
Thyroid Nodules: Surgical Options and Family History Considerations
Thyroid nodule Recently, a thyroid ultrasound revealed a 0.6 cm nodule on the right side and an unclear 0.8 cm shadow on the left side. Due to a family history of papillary thyroid carcinoma, if a fine needle aspiration biopsy is performed, regardless of the results, 1. Given the...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Generally, thyroid nodules larger than 1 centimeter are considered for fine needle aspiration biopsy. If the nodule is smaller than 1 centimeter but shows multiple microcalcifications on ultrasound, a biopsy may also be considered. If the pathology results from the biopsy indicat...[Read More] Thyroid Nodules: Surgical Options and Family History Considerations
Understanding Male Pear-Shaped Bodies: Causes and Solutions
male pear-shaped body Hello Dr. Tsai: As the title suggests, my upper body is slim, like my father; but my lower body is plump, like my mother (though my hands also resemble my mother's). I am currently a senior in high school, standing at 160 cm and weighing close to 60 kg....
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Body shape is partially influenced by genetics, and consuming two to three cups of soy milk per week should not significantly affect estrogen levels. In males, elevated estrogen levels combined with reduced testosterone may lead to gynecomastia. Certain genetic disorders may resu...[Read More] Understanding Male Pear-Shaped Bodies: Causes and Solutions
Managing Numbness and Redness in Toes for Seniors with Diabetes
The toes are red and numb? I am 83 years old and have hypertension and diabetes. I take medication every day. Since last year, I have been experiencing numbness in the toes of both feet, along with a reddish appearance. I have tried soaking them in warm water, but there has been ...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Diabetes complications include neuropathy, which can affect sensory nerves, motor nerves, and even autonomic nerves. If there is redness and warmth in the feet, infection (such as cellulitis) must be ruled out before suspecting neuropathy. Numbness and pain are associated with se...[Read More] Managing Numbness and Redness in Toes for Seniors with Diabetes
Understanding Parathyroid Hormone Levels: What You Need to Know
Parathyroid gland Hello Doctor: My mother is 65 years old and recently had a health check-up. The results showed that her parathyroid hormone level is 120, which is above the standard value. She does not have any noticeable symptoms. I would like to ask: 1. Is this significantly ...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Each hospital may have slightly different standard values. If parathyroid hormone levels are elevated, further evaluation of blood calcium levels or an ultrasound may be necessary. In cases of parathyroid adenoma accompanied by hypercalcemia or osteoporosis, surgical intervention...[Read More] Understanding Parathyroid Hormone Levels: What You Need to Know
Understanding Impaired Glucose Tolerance: Symptoms and Management
Impaired glucose tolerance Doctor, I seem to have impaired glucose tolerance. My fasting blood sugar is around 80, which is normal, but my postprandial blood sugar sometimes reaches 130, 140, 150, and even up to 166 after two hours. Could this be a sign of impaired glucose tolera...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
The standard procedure is the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), where a solution containing 75 grams of glucose is consumed. If the blood glucose level is between 140 and 199 mg/dL two hours after drinking, it is classified as impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Regardless of whe...[Read More] Understanding Impaired Glucose Tolerance: Symptoms and Management
Understanding Diabetic Neuropathy: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management
Diabetic neuropathy? Dear Li, Question 1: Recently, my grandmother has experienced a loss of sensation in the tips of her fingers, particularly in her index, middle, and ring fingers, which has become more severe. In addition to the numbness in her fingers, she also experiences ...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Diabetic neuropathy commonly presents with numbness, tingling, or a sensation of wearing gloves in the extremities. If a diabetes educator is available at the hospital, a monofilament test can be performed initially. For further evaluation, a referral to a neurologist may be nece...[Read More] Understanding Diabetic Neuropathy: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management
Understanding Uneven Facial Hair Growth: Possible Medical Concerns
The beard is longer on one side? Hello Dr. Tsai: For the past six months, I have encountered a situation where the hair on the left side of my upper lip and the hair inside my left nostril have stopped growing, while the right side and my chin are normal. Could you please advise ...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Hair develops from hair follicles, and in humans, hair undergoes changes influenced by puberty hormones, transitioning from fine vellus hair to coarser terminal hair. Issues with hair growth or distribution may arise from problems with the hair itself or endocrine disorders, and ...[Read More] Understanding Uneven Facial Hair Growth: Possible Medical Concerns
Understanding Low Red Blood Cell Count and Its Implications for Health
Regarding issues with red blood cells? Hello, doctor. Since I was young, during every blood test for health check-ups, the doctors have always reminded me that my red blood cell volume is low and my hemoglobin levels are also low. I still remember a doctor from Changhua Christian...
Dr. Cai Zonglin reply Internal Medicine
Low hemoglobin (Hb) levels may result in symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, palpitations, and pallor. Low hemoglobin does not necessarily correlate with low hematocrit, as it depends on the type of anemia. Further evaluation may be required, including tests for serum iron level...[Read More] Understanding Low Red Blood Cell Count and Its Implications for Health