Understanding Fasting vs. Postprandial Blood Sugar Levels: A Patient's Concern
Is it considered preprandial blood glucose or postprandial blood glucose? I have a history of hypertension and take my medication every morning before meals. My blood pressure is currently well-controlled. I am 158 cm tall, weigh 55 kg, and am 44 years old. On the evening of Augu...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: I had milk tea around 3-4 PM. I tested my blood sugar at 6 PM, which is considered postprandial blood sugar (2 hours after eating), not fasting blood sugar.[Read More] Understanding Fasting vs. Postprandial Blood Sugar Levels: A Patient's Concern
Managing Excessive Sweating and Heat Sensation in Diabetes Patients
Chest heat or chest discomfort? Hello doctor, I have type 2 diabetes, and about three years ago, I started experiencing night sweats while covered with a blanket during winter (mostly concentrated in the chest and back). In recent months, I have been able to clearly feel a wave o...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, since the symptoms you described are non-specific, it is recommended to consult a family medicine physician first.[Read More] Managing Excessive Sweating and Heat Sensation in Diabetes Patients
Symptoms of High Testosterone in Men: Hair Loss and More
Regarding elevated androgen levels in males? I would like to ask what symptoms are associated with elevated androgen levels? Recently, I discovered an issue with male pattern baldness in dermatology, and I'm a bit concerned that it might be caused by high androgen levels lea...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: High levels of male hormones in men can lead to excessive and dense body hair, as well as a robust beard. Your symptoms may be related.[Read More] Symptoms of High Testosterone in Men: Hair Loss and More
Understanding Low Hemoglobin and Cholesterol Levels in Health Reports
The health check report has red text? Based on your health check report, your hemoglobin (Hb) level is 11.2 g/dL, hematocrit (Ht) is 35.4%, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is 62 mg/dL, all of which are below the standard values. You should pay attention to the follo...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Please transfer to the hematology department. A low-density lipoprotein (LDL) level of 62 is still within an acceptable range for most individuals.[Read More] Understanding Low Hemoglobin and Cholesterol Levels in Health Reports
Understanding Postprandial Blood Sugar Fluctuations and Fatigue Symptoms
Previously measured elevated postprandial blood glucose levels using a glucometer? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a few questions. Last August, during a hot weather, I had a sweet smoothie, and shortly after, I experienced dizziness and fatigue, feeling sleepy. This fatig...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, there are many conditions that could cause the situation you described. Regarding blood sugar levels, since they can sometimes be elevated, it is advisable to consult a physician for an evaluation and to have a blood test to check your hemoglobin A1c levels.[Read More] Understanding Postprandial Blood Sugar Fluctuations and Fatigue Symptoms
Can Switching to Insulin Help Manage Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels?
If the effect of using metformin after meals is not satisfactory, can insulin therapy be considered? Hello, Doctor. Thank you very much for your response. I have had diabetes for 2 years, with an initial HbA1c of 6.6 and a fasting blood glucose of 142. I have been using Metformin...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. There are many factors that contribute to postprandial hyperglycemia, and there are various ways to manage it. Insulin is one of the methods. I am not aware of the specific regulations regarding insulin under the health insurance system. 2. Your physician will likely co...[Read More] Can Switching to Insulin Help Manage Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels?
Understanding Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Recovery Challenges
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy recovery issues? Hello Doctor, my father (59 years old) has been experiencing numbness in his legs since October of last year. By January, his condition deteriorated rapidly from being able to walk to having difficulty walking within just a few week...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
1. Seeking a second opinion, if necessary, is not a waste of time. 2. Some conditions can be cured, while others can only be managed. However, not treating them is not an option, and improvement may take time. 3. If leg swelling cannot be adequately controlled through diet al...[Read More] Understanding Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Recovery Challenges
Thyroid Index and Hair Loss: Understanding the Connection
Thyroid levels and hair loss issues? Hello, doctor. I previously consulted a dermatologist regarding my hair loss issue and had blood tests done, which showed no abnormalities. The dermatologist thought my hair loss condition was not severe. Later, during a health check-up, I vis...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It is recommended to have a blood test to check thyroid function. If hypothyroidism is present, it is more likely to cause hair loss.[Read More] Thyroid Index and Hair Loss: Understanding the Connection
Should You Adjust Your Diet for Slightly Elevated Fasting Glucose?
Pre-meal elevated glucose levels issue? I would like to ask the doctor, during a recent blood test, my fasting glucose level was 96. Although it is still within the normal range of 70-100, should I make adjustments to my diet based on this value, or do glucose levels vary with ea...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: The blood sugar levels measured before meals may not always be the same. There can be fluctuations, but as long as they are within the normal range, they can be considered normal values. It is recommended to adjust your diet to avoid abnormalities.[Read More] Should You Adjust Your Diet for Slightly Elevated Fasting Glucose?
Managing High Cholesterol: When to See a Doctor and Lifestyle Tips
Recent health check revealed slightly elevated cholesterol levels? Recently, a health check revealed slightly elevated cholesterol levels. My height is 164 cm and weight is 44 kg. Total cholesterol is 238 mg/dL, triglycerides are 42 mg/dL, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is 69.9 m...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It is recommended to see a physician. Whether treatment is necessary depends on the physician's assessment of any risk factors you may have, such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and other risk factors. Additionally, it is im...[Read More] Managing High Cholesterol: When to See a Doctor and Lifestyle Tips
Is High HDL Cholesterol Really Safe? Understanding Your Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol issues Recently, blood tests showed triglycerides at 67 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol at 133 mg/dL, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol at 150 mg/dL, and total cholesterol at 273 mg/dL. The ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol is 2.1...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Some studies have shown that excessively high levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol may be detrimental to health. Elevated HDL cholesterol levels can actually increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, other research has found that having to...[Read More] Is High HDL Cholesterol Really Safe? Understanding Your Cholesterol Levels
Do Thyroid Nodules Affect Pregnancy? Understanding the Impact
Thyroid nodule Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire if thyroid nodules can affect pregnancy. Thank you.
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Thyroid nodules that do not cause functional abnormalities, do not exert pressure, and are not malignant tumors generally do not affect pregnancy.[Read More] Do Thyroid Nodules Affect Pregnancy? Understanding the Impact
Managing Hypothyroidism: Weight Loss and Long-Term Health Strategies
Hypothyroidism Hello, my girlfriend has been diagnosed with hypothyroidism after gaining significant weight, which prompted her to seek medical attention. The doctor advised that she does not need medication. I would like to know if the weight gain is indeed caused by the thyroid...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: There are many causes of hypothyroidism. For obesity caused by hypothyroidism, it is advisable to first normalize thyroid hormone levels. Then, based on the underlying cause, treatment can be initiated to see if it is possible to prevent further hypothyroidism.[Read More] Managing Hypothyroidism: Weight Loss and Long-Term Health Strategies
Effective Strategies for Managing Abdominal Obesity: A Guide
How to manage obesity? I want to lose weight, especially abdominal fat. How does your department handle this? What is the difference between seeing a metabolic specialist and a family medicine physician?
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: The metabolic department focuses on obesity issues primarily related to endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism, among others. The management approach includes correcting endocrine abnormalities, dietary control, and exercise management. I'm not very clear on the ...[Read More] Effective Strategies for Managing Abdominal Obesity: A Guide
Understanding Hypothyroidism During Pregnancy: Key Hormone Levels Explained
Hypothyroidism If one side of the thyroid has been removed and you are taking 50 mcg of Levothyroxine (Enthexin) daily, currently at six weeks of pregnancy, and after increasing the dosage to two tablets, your blood test results show T3: 84 (64-152), T4: 0.94 (0.7-1.48), and TSH:...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: T3: 84 (64-152) T4: 0.94 (0.7-1.48) TSH: 23.3 (0.35-4.94) This indicates hypothyroidism. It is recommended to return to the original clinic for evaluation by a physician to determine if any adjustments are necessary.[Read More] Understanding Hypothyroidism During Pregnancy: Key Hormone Levels Explained
Managing Hypothyroidism: Weight Loss and Long-Term Health Strategies
Hypothyroidism Hello, my girlfriend has been diagnosed with hypothyroidism after noticing significant weight gain, which prompted her to seek medical attention. The doctor mentioned that medication is not necessary. I would like to ask if the weight gain is indeed caused by the t...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: There are many causes of hypothyroidism. For obesity caused by hypothyroidism, it is advisable to first normalize thyroid hormone levels. Then, based on the underlying cause, treatment can be implemented to see if it is possible to prevent further hypothyroidism.[Read More] Managing Hypothyroidism: Weight Loss and Long-Term Health Strategies
Managing Hypothyroidism: Weight Loss and Long-Term Health Strategies
Hypothyroidism Hello, my girlfriend has been diagnosed with hypothyroidism after gaining significant weight, which prompted her to seek medical attention. The doctor advised that she does not need medication. I would like to know if the weight gain is indeed caused by the thyroid...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: There are many causes of hypothyroidism. For obesity caused by hypothyroidism, it is advisable to first normalize thyroid hormone levels. Then, treatment can be based on the underlying cause to see if it can be resolved.[Read More] Managing Hypothyroidism: Weight Loss and Long-Term Health Strategies
Managing High Cholesterol: Tips for Balancing HDL and LDL Levels
High total cholesterol Hello, Doctor. During my health check-up, I found that my total cholesterol is above the normal range. I have noticed a trend of increasing total cholesterol in the past few years: total cholesterol (161→186→194→227), triglycerides (60→58→82→79). This time,...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. Currently, there are no primary methods for treating elevated high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol; however, if HDL cholesterol levels are already high, it is advised not to supplement with related health products. 2. If HDL cholesterol is elevated, do not supplem...[Read More] Managing High Cholesterol: Tips for Balancing HDL and LDL Levels
Understanding Hormonal Imbalance: When to See a Specialist
Endocrine disorder Hello, Doctor: I visited the obstetrics and gynecology department in April and was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Due to not having my period for several months, the doctor prescribed Norethindrone 5.705 mg to be taken twice daily for 14 days....
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: You can first consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist. Inform them of your condition completely, and then ask if you need to see any other specialists.[Read More] Understanding Hormonal Imbalance: When to See a Specialist
Prolonged Menstruation, Leg Cramps, and Itchy Feet: What to Do?
Prolonged menstruation, itchy legs, and muscle cramps? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing my menstrual cycle for 12 days without stopping. Additionally, I have been waking up four to five times during the night due to frequent calf cramps, and my feet are extremely itchy, whi...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: For menstrual issues, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist. For calf cramps and itchy soles, you can see a neurologist.[Read More] Prolonged Menstruation, Leg Cramps, and Itchy Feet: What to Do?