Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Are You at Risk for Diabetes?
Fasting blood glucose level Dear Doctor: I measured my fasting blood glucose levels at the end of September, early October, and yesterday, with values of 120, 103, and 129, respectively, all after fasting for 8 hours. Additionally, I had my hemoglobin A1c tested yesterday, which ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. Based on your blood glucose levels, you are currently classified as "prediabetic." It is recommended that you control your diet, engage in regular exercise, and maintain a healthy weight. 2. Blood glucose levels can fluctuate at any time, and the situations yo...[Read More] Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Are You at Risk for Diabetes?
Is a Blood Pressure of 124/77 Considered Normal? Understanding Dizziness Symptoms
Is the blood pressure normal? Doctor, is a blood pressure reading of 124/77 normal? Also, I feel very dizzy in the morning, and I feel dizzy when walking and even when bending down to change clothes. Could there be a problem?
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Your blood pressure is not considered high. There are many causes for dizziness, such as anemia, inner ear imbalance, or blood pressure that is too high or too low, among others. It is recommended that you first consult a family medicine or neurology specialist, who will h...[Read More] Is a Blood Pressure of 124/77 Considered Normal? Understanding Dizziness Symptoms
Does a Cold Affect Blood Sugar Levels? Understanding the Impact of Medications
Cold and Blood Sugar Levels Dear Doctor, 1. Does a cold cause an increase in blood sugar levels? (131) 2. Can cold medications cause an increase in blood sugar levels? Ingredients: Panadol, Amoxicillin, Incidal, Medecoush, Muslo. Thank you!
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Blood glucose levels fluctuate and are not fixed. It is recommended that you check your blood glucose levels after your cold symptoms have resolved.[Read More] Does a Cold Affect Blood Sugar Levels? Understanding the Impact of Medications
Understanding Chest Pain: Could It Be Related to Gas?
Chest pain? The presence of sharp pain near the chest that sometimes resolves after passing gas could be related to several factors. One possibility is that it may be associated with gastrointestinal issues, such as gas buildup or bloating, which can cause referred pain in the ch...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Please seek medical attention and have a physician examine you in person.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Could It Be Related to Gas?
Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Is 95 mg/dL Too High at 33?
Regarding fasting blood glucose (8 hours) Hello Dr. Lee, I am 33 years old, and recently (on September 26) my fasting blood glucose (8 hours) was measured at 95 mg/dL. I would like to ask you: 1. Given my age and fasting blood glucose level (95 mg/dL), is this considered elev...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello Ah-Hsiang: Your blood sugar level is currently within the normal range. Please continue regular monitoring and observation, maintain a healthy lifestyle, pay attention to your diet, control your weight, and engage in regular exercise. Thank you for your inquiry. Wishing you...[Read More] Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Is 95 mg/dL Too High at 33?
How to Alleviate Abdominal Pain After Eating Fried Chicken and Beer
Mild abdominal pain? Hello: After eating fried chicken and drinking beer last night, I've been experiencing a dull stomach ache today. What should I do to resolve this? Are there any soothing methods? Thank you.
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: There are many causes of abdominal pain, and it is not possible to make a diagnosis or treatment based solely on your description. It is recommended that you consult a gastroenterologist. If the abdominal pain persists or worsens, you must go to the emergency room without ...[Read More] How to Alleviate Abdominal Pain After Eating Fried Chicken and Beer
Can I Take Circulin with Aspirin and Diabetes Medications?
Currently taking medication for diabetes, hypertension, Coenzyme Q10, and Aspirin. Is it safe to take Circulin? I have been managing my hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia for many years with Glucomet (Metformin) and Vytorin (Ezetimibe/Simvastatin), and my blood press...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Dear Mr. Yao: Since you are already taking Aspirin, it is not recommended for you to use Clopidogrel to avoid increasing the risk of side effects. Aspirin has been proven to reduce the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases, while Clopidogrel has not been confirmed to do so. It is...[Read More] Can I Take Circulin with Aspirin and Diabetes Medications?
Understanding Subtle Secondary Sexual Characteristics and Voice Changes
Underdeveloped secondary sexual characteristics? Hello, doctor. I am 23 years old, and my Adam's apple is not very prominent. My voice is flat and very hoarse. Are there any methods to make my voice deeper? (For example, vocal cord minimally invasive surgery.) Additionally, ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It is recommended that you consult an endocrinologist for an evaluation by a specialist before proceeding with any further treatment. Please do not undertake any medical procedures without proper assessment! Wishing you good health![Read More] Understanding Subtle Secondary Sexual Characteristics and Voice Changes
Understanding Long-Term Low Blood Pressure: Key Considerations
If blood pressure is consistently low, what should one pay attention to? In the past, my blood pressure readings (for example, when measured at a cold clinic) have been on the lower side. My most recent health check report showed a systolic pressure of 86, diastolic pressure of 5...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Cocoa: Some young women may have lower blood pressure. If the readings are consistently similar and there are no symptoms, there is generally no need for concern. However, here are a few reminders: 1. Measure your blood pressure daily to determine the typical range. 2. Che...[Read More] Understanding Long-Term Low Blood Pressure: Key Considerations
Essential Health Checkup Items for Post-Heart Surgery Patients
Health checkup items Hello Dr. Li, my father-in-law underwent two balloon angioplasty procedures for his heart 5 or 6 years ago, and last year he had his gallbladder removed due to gallstones. If he wants to have a physical examination this year, what tests would be suitable for ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello Ms. Cheng: The patient has a history of heart disease and gallbladder surgery. It is recommended that the patient follow up with the cardiology and hepatobiliary gastroenterology outpatient clinics at the original treating hospital. The physician will arrange necessary tail...[Read More] Essential Health Checkup Items for Post-Heart Surgery Patients
Does Sitting Too Long or Eating Fried Foods Cause Blood in Stool?
Prolonged sitting or consuming fried foods can lead to the presence of blood in the stool? Hello Doctor, I have a habit of observing my stool when I go to the bathroom. However, after using the restroom last night, I noticed a drop of blood on my stool. I wiped my anus with toile...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Ding Te: Based on the symptoms you described, it may be caused by "internal hemorrhoids." I recommend that you consult a colorectal surgeon to confirm the diagnosis and receive treatment. Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you good health![Read More] Does Sitting Too Long or Eating Fried Foods Cause Blood in Stool?
Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count: When to Seek Medical Advice
Leukocytosis Hello Doctor, I am 22 years old and graduated from university about three weeks ago. Due to employment requirements, I underwent a labor health examination, and my white blood cell count was elevated at 12,770. I remember that during my high school and university ent...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Xiao Wei: The normal range for white blood cells is approximately 5,000 to 10,000 per microliter. Of course, there are some individuals who may have slightly higher or lower counts. In addition to reviewing the results of consecutive tests, it is also important to examine ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count: When to Seek Medical Advice
Consulting a Doctor: Is My Blood Sugar Testing Schedule Appropriate?
I would like to ask the doctor if there are any issues with the following examination methods? Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask if there are any issues with my following testing methods? Testing method: For example, on August 1st, I had a fasting blood glucose test, and then I ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Your first day's examination was a standard check-up, and the purpose of the second day's examination is to understand the impact of your usual diet on postprandial blood glucose levels, which is perfectly reasonable. Thank you for your question![Read More] Consulting a Doctor: Is My Blood Sugar Testing Schedule Appropriate?
Can Diabetes Cause Foreskin Cracking and Skin Breaks?
Can diabetes cause skin breakdown of the foreskin? My friend is currently 24 years old and has diabetes, but he occasionally experiences cracking and skin breakdown in the area of the foreskin. Is this normal? (Sexually transmitted infections and other conditions have been ruled ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Your friend may have diabetes complicated by balanitis. It is recommended that your friend control their blood sugar levels and consult a urologist. Thank you for your inquiry![Read More] Can Diabetes Cause Foreskin Cracking and Skin Breaks?
Do I Need Hormone Testing for Gynecomastia? Which Specialist to See?
Gynecomastia Do I need to get hormone testing first? If so, which department should I visit at the hospital?
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Jeff: Hello. I recommend that you schedule an appointment with the "Endocrinology and Metabolism Department" (some hospitals may refer to it as "Metabolism Department" or "Endocrine Department"). Endocrinologists specialize in managing endocrine and ...[Read More] Do I Need Hormone Testing for Gynecomastia? Which Specialist to See?
Struggling with Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Difficulty in passing stool? I noticed blood in my stool a few days ago, but it hasn't happened since. However, I still feel the urge to have a bowel movement, yet I can't seem to pass anything. When I do, it's watery. I'm not sure if this is related to my rec...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Blood in the stool is not related to the food you have recently eaten. It may be caused by colorectal disease or hemorrhoids. Please do not attempt to manage it on your own. It is recommended to consult a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist to avoid delaying your co...[Read More] Struggling with Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Managing Kidney Health: Dietary Tips and Donation Concerns
Facing the brink of dialysis? After the blood test, the following levels were elevated: creatinine 4.31, potassium 5.0, and phosphorus 5.5. I have high blood pressure. I have the following three questions: 1. How can I improve these levels through diet? 2. If I face the need fo...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Your creatinine level is 4.31, which indicates that you may be entering or approaching stage five of chronic kidney disease. I must remind you to seek treatment from a nephrologist and to follow the guidance of the healthcare team. Do not trust any alternative remedies, as...[Read More] Managing Kidney Health: Dietary Tips and Donation Concerns
Understanding Hypertension: Symptoms and Health Risks Explained
Hypertension issues Hello, Dr. Lee! Recently, I have been experiencing chest tightness, nausea, pain at the back of my temples (with a feeling of tightness), and bloating. I visited the clinic today, and my blood pressure was 179/87. Am I considered part of the hypertensive popul...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Some of your symptoms may indeed be caused by hypertension, such as headaches. However, the connection between bloating and hypertension is relatively minor. Here is a basic concept for your reference: the diagnosis of hypertension should be based on multiple measurements ...[Read More] Understanding Hypertension: Symptoms and Health Risks Explained
Understanding Glycated Hemoglobin: Key Questions for Your Doctor
Questions related to glycated hemoglobin? (Revised, seeking Dr. Lee's opinion, thank you.) Hello Dr. Lee! I initially consulted another physician, but there are several questions I need to ask my primary physician. Unfortunately, I am currently unable to make an appointment....
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Dear Pikachu, Please forgive my frankness, and I hope I do not offend you! You have two major issues: one is "obsession," and the other is "losing sight of the main issue." Allow me to explain. "Obsession" refers to your fixation on numbers; please ...[Read More] Understanding Glycated Hemoglobin: Key Questions for Your Doctor
Do I Need to Disclose Past Genital Warts in My Medical History?
Hello, Doctor? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if I need to include a history of having had genital warts (condyloma) in my medical history, even though I have been treated and have not had a recurrence. Can I choose not to write it down? Genital warts are usually located arou...
Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. The medical term for warts is "condylomata acuminata," which is a recurrent disease associated with cancer. Failing to inform your physician may lead to misdiagnosis, and if you have standard commercial health insurance, the insurance company may deny claims b...[Read More] Do I Need to Disclose Past Genital Warts in My Medical History?