Could These Symptoms Indicate Diabetes? Expert Insights on Testing
Is it possible that this could be diabetes? Hello Dr. Lee! Recently, I have been experiencing the following conditions: 1. Frequent urination (I often wake up in the middle of the night to urinate, about 1-2 times per night). 2. Weight loss from 63.5 kg to 60.5 kg (over about one...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello, regarding your inquiries: 1. The measurements of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) before and after meals are the same. 2. According to your routine health check data from June, there are no signs of diabetes. If you are still concerned, you can have your fasting blood glucose a...[Read More] Could These Symptoms Indicate Diabetes? Expert Insights on Testing
Understanding Discomfort from Skipping Meals: Causes and Solutions
Discomfort caused by excessive hunger? Hello Doctor: I have experienced 2 to 3 episodes of extreme hunger leading to discomfort over the past year (for example, only having breakfast, skipping lunch, and eating dinner). The symptoms I experience include intense hunger, trembling ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Xiao Kai: Based on your description, your symptoms of discomfort seem to be more like those caused by "hypoglycemia." I recommend the following: 1. Limit your intake of sugary beverages. 2. Maintain regular and balanced meals. 3. Consult an endocrinologist.[Read More] Understanding Discomfort from Skipping Meals: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Elevated Blood Sugar: Is 104 mg/dl a Warning Sign?
Regarding elevated blood sugar levels? Hello doctor, I would like to ask if a fasting blood glucose test result of 104 mg/dL indicates that I am in a prediabetic state? Or could my recent consumption of ice cream and sweets during the summer have affected this value?
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello Ms. Lin: According to the definition, a fasting blood glucose level of 104 mg/dL is considered "prediabetes." However, a single test result is not sufficient for a diagnosis. It is recommended that you reduce your intake of sugary foods and follow up in three mont...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Blood Sugar: Is 104 mg/dl a Warning Sign?
Struggling to Lose Weight: Why Diet and Exercise Aren't Working
No matter how I eat and exercise, I still can't lose weight? I am currently 171 cm tall and weigh 90 kg, and I have been obese for nearly six years. My weight has been gradually increasing. My diet is normal, and I rarely snack. I have consistently engaged in both aerobic an...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello Aya, Coincidentally, I have also been working on weight loss recently, and I would like to share my experience for your reference. There is an abundance of knowledge regarding weight loss that cannot be detailed here, so I recommend consulting an endocrinologist and a nut...[Read More] Struggling to Lose Weight: Why Diet and Exercise Aren't Working
Why Switching to Brown Rice May Cause Hunger and Weakness Symptoms
After switching to brown rice, I feel hungry quickly and often experience cold sweats from hunger? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my situation. I usually have white rice as the main staple for dinner, but I recently switched to a mixture of brown rice and white rice. Sin...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Based on your description, it does indeed sound like symptoms of hypoglycemia. This may be related to abnormal insulin secretion or dietary factors. I recommend that you visit a hospital and consult with a specialist in Metabolism (Endocrinology), as it would be more appro...[Read More] Why Switching to Brown Rice May Cause Hunger and Weakness Symptoms
Managing High HbA1c Levels: Tips for Diabetes Prevention and Care
Health check values Hello doctor, there is a family history of diabetes in my household, and I have had consistently high HbA1c levels for the past three months, with values of 6.0, 5.8, and 5.8. My fasting blood sugar levels are 90 and 116, but I forgot the third measurement. Ad...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Based on your test results, you are currently in the "prediabetes" stage, and there is a significant risk of progressing to diabetes. It is recommended that you consult an endocrinologist to guide you in weight management and other lifestyle changes to prevent th...[Read More] Managing High HbA1c Levels: Tips for Diabetes Prevention and Care
Is a Blood Sugar Level of 114 mg/dL a Sign of Early Diabetes?
Blood sugar issues? Hello doctor, I started fasting at 8:00 PM and had blood and urine tests at 10:00 AM the next day. The report showed a blood glucose level of 114 mg/dL. Does this mean I am in the early stages of diabetes? Thank you!
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Based on the values from your report, you can be classified as having "prediabetes" (not early-stage diabetes). If you could also test for "glycated hemoglobin" (also known as HbA1c) and postprandial blood glucose levels two hours after eating, it would...[Read More] Is a Blood Sugar Level of 114 mg/dL a Sign of Early Diabetes?
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Am I at Risk for Prediabetes?
I'm sorry Hello, doctor. Since both of my parents are diabetic, I pay special attention to my own blood sugar levels. I avoid sweets and sugary drinks, and my diet is relatively light. I also maintain a habit of exercising for over an hour each day. Recently, my fasting bloo...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Based on the values you provided, your blood glucose level is still within the normal range and does not indicate prediabetes. Please continue to maintain dietary control, exercise habits, and blood glucose monitoring. Wishing you health and safety![Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Am I at Risk for Prediabetes?
Effective Strategies for Managing Diabetes: Encouraging Medication and Blood Sugar Monitoring
Diabetic patients are reluctant to take their medication on time and monitor their blood glucose levels? My mother has been diagnosed with hyperglycemia for many years, with fasting blood sugar levels around 140. Recently, her levels have spiked to over 200. As a result, she has ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Based on what you described, your mother's blood sugar levels, which were previously stable, have suddenly become uncontrolled. This situation should not be considered solely within the framework of diabetes; there may be other underlying conditions, such as a urinary...[Read More] Effective Strategies for Managing Diabetes: Encouraging Medication and Blood Sugar Monitoring
Managing Blood Sugar: When to Use Medication for Carbohydrate Intake
Issues with blood sugar medications Doctor, I usually have normal blood sugar levels, with fasting levels between 100 and 110. Typically, after consuming five types of rice, my blood sugar is around 135 two hours later. However, when I eat carbohydrates like white rice, dumplings...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello Mr. Ke: The glycemic index of white rice and white noodles is higher than that of multigrain rice, which causes an increase in your post-meal blood sugar levels when eating out. If you cannot reduce your intake of white rice, then using Glucophage for control may be necessa...[Read More] Managing Blood Sugar: When to Use Medication for Carbohydrate Intake
Chest Pain and Breathing Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention
Chest tightness or pain? Doctor, I have been experiencing chest tightness and difficulty breathing for the past few days, along with headaches and dizziness. Yesterday, I also had unexplained diarrhea and vomiting. A Chinese medicine doctor previously mentioned that I have palpit...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: You are experiencing significant physical discomfort and should seek medical attention at a hospital immediately. In the future, if you encounter similar situations, please go directly to a healthcare provider instead of consulting online to avoid delaying your condition.[Read More] Chest Pain and Breathing Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Facial Edema: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Facial edema Hello, doctor. I am 169 cm tall and weigh 52 kg, which is not considered overweight, but I have facial edema. There is no swelling in my eyelids, limbs, or other areas. My face swells every day, and it feels even more swollen after eating. I wonder if this is related...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It is recommended that you first consult with a "Family Medicine" physician, who can then refer you to the appropriate specialist if necessary, or provide treatment themselves.[Read More] Understanding Facial Edema: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Cholesterol Levels: Total, LDL, HDL, and Ratios Explained
Cholesterol levels vs. ratios? My cholesterol results are as follows: Total cholesterol 270, Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) 190, High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) 80, and the ratio is 3.38 (270/80). Are these numbers severely elevated? I did some research on Google, and some sources ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: There are various standards for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. Currently, in Taiwan, physicians must adhere to the National Health Insurance (NHI) standards. The decision on whether medication is needed is not based solely on laboratory test results; it also depends on t...[Read More] Understanding Cholesterol Levels: Total, LDL, HDL, and Ratios Explained
Understanding Heart Palpitations: When to Seek Further Testing
Cardiac issues? Hello, doctor. In March, I experienced daily palpitations and went to the emergency room at two different hospitals. I underwent blood tests, a CT scan, and an electrocardiogram, all of which showed no abnormalities. Later, I was referred to a psychiatrist who dia...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If you are concerned about heart problems, you should first consult a cardiologist. If it is confirmed that there are no heart issues, then you can return to the psychiatrist for follow-up. Additionally, consider the possibility of hyperthyroidism.[Read More] Understanding Heart Palpitations: When to Seek Further Testing
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Diabetes, Insulin, and Digestion Effects
Blood sugar issues? I would like to ask the doctor, in diabetes patients, high blood sugar occurs due to loss or insufficient insulin function. If they do not take medication or inject insulin, will they experience hypoglycemia? Additionally, if their gastrointestinal function is...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. Abnormal eating habits or other medical conditions can also lead to hypoglycemia. 2. The composition of the diet and the ability to digest and absorb nutrients can affect blood glucose levels.[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Diabetes, Insulin, and Digestion Effects
Understanding Diabetes: Key Questions on Blood Sugar Levels and Genetics
Regarding diabetes and the genetic aspects of diabetes? Director Li, I have a few questions: 1. My bedtime blood sugar levels are between 90 and 100. Is this considered low? In the morning, my levels are around 110 to 120. What should I be aware of? 2. Why do my post-meal blo...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1.a. There is no hypoglycemia. b. Please manage your diet and weight, and engage in regular exercise. 2. It may be an issue with the technique; you can consult a diabetes educator for the correct method. 3. I am unaware of your treatment plan, so I cannot answer; please di...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Key Questions on Blood Sugar Levels and Genetics
Managing Diabetes: Tips for Blood Sugar Control and Digestive Health
Diabetes issues Hello Doctor, last month I went to the hospital due to blurred vision and was diagnosed with diabetes (blood sugar over 300). The doctor prescribed Metformin HCl 500 mg, to take half a tablet before breakfast and dinner, and to monitor my blood sugar two hours aft...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. Your blood sugar shows "improvement"; however, to determine if it has reached the control target, we still need to refer to your hemoglobin A1c levels. 2. A postprandial blood sugar of 110 is not considered high. It is possible for blood sugar levels to decrea...[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Tips for Blood Sugar Control and Digestive Health
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Mediterranean anemia (also known as thalassemia) Red blood cells (RBC) 5.84 (reference range 3.70–5.50) Hemoglobin (Hb) 10.9 (reference range 11.3–16.0) Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) 59.4 (reference range 80.0–100.0) The above data was obtained two years ago when I was in high sc...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. Your anemia is classified as microcytic anemia, and the possible causes include "thalassemia" (formerly known as Mediterranean anemia) or iron deficiency anemia, or both. It cannot be concluded that you definitely have "thalassemia" just because yo...[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Rectal bleeding I have recently been experiencing abdominal pain upon waking up in the morning, which makes me urgently need to have a bowel movement. I usually consume alcohol, and I'm unsure if this is related. Tonight, after having a bowel movement, I noticed mucus-like b...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Bright red blood indicates lower gastrointestinal bleeding, which may be caused by hemorrhoids or other issues related to the colon or rectum. It is necessary to consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Blood Pressure Fluctuations: Concerns and Solutions
Blood pressure issues Hello Doctor: I am 170 cm tall and weigh 53 kg. My parents do not have hypertension, I rarely drink alcohol, and I quit smoking six months ago. I tend to get anxious and have annual health check-ups, where my blood pressure has always been normal (<120/&l...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. Blood pressure can vary due to internal factors such as physical activity and emotions, as well as external factors like temperature; this is a normal phenomenon. 2. Most people tend to have higher blood pressure readings in the hospital compared to at home, which is re...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Fluctuations: Concerns and Solutions