Understanding Blood Sugar Control in Diabetes Management
Blood sugar issues? Hello Dr. Lin: My father was diagnosed with diabetes in August. He takes insulin before breakfast (18 units) and before dinner (12 units), and he also takes 0.5 tablets of Metformin (HCl) after breakfast and dinner. Currently, his fasting blood glucose levels ...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: The difference between pre-meal and post-meal blood glucose levels should ideally not exceed 60 mg/dL. However, there are other indicators that can be used for assessment, such as glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose levels, postprandial blood glucose levels,...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Control in Diabetes Management
Should You Take Medication for High LDL Cholesterol Levels?
Elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)? The total cholesterol is 245 mg/dL, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is 150 mg/dL (exceeding the standard value of 130 mg/dL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is 78 mg/dL. Given that triglycerides are 9...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: According to the regulations for medication coverage under the National Health Insurance, it is necessary to consider whether the patient has cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or risk factors. The definition of cardiovascular disease includes: (1) coronary atherosclerosis ...[Read More] Should You Take Medication for High LDL Cholesterol Levels?
Which Specialist to See for Thyroid Disease: Rheumatology or Metabolism?
Thyroid diseases are typically managed by an endocrinologist? Hello, doctor. Recently, I visited the rheumatology department, and the blood test results showed abnormalities in thyroid peroxidase antibodies, thyroglobulin antibodies, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) immunoassay,...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Thyroid issues can be addressed by an endocrinologist. However, from your message, it is unclear what the underlying cause is. You mentioned seeing an immunologist, but it is also unclear why thyroid function tests were performed. Therefore, it may be difficult to determin...[Read More] Which Specialist to See for Thyroid Disease: Rheumatology or Metabolism?
Dietary Restrictions for Iodine Radiation Therapy in Thyroid Cancer
Dietary Issues Related to Radioactive Iodine Therapy Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my mother-in-law's thyroid cancer treatment, which requires radioactive iodine therapy. Before the treatment, there are dietary restrictions, such as avoiding salty condiments like ...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: To be precise, a low-iodine diet is required. Mirin or grape vinegar can be consumed as long as they are low in iodine.[Read More] Dietary Restrictions for Iodine Radiation Therapy in Thyroid Cancer
Understanding Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Levels: Your Health Questions Answered
Inquire about blood lipid and blood glucose issues? Hello: I have a lipid issue and have been taking traditional Chinese medicine and Lipitor for about six months. My last blood test results on February 21 showed: LDL: 185, HDL: 60, total cholesterol: 249, triglycerides: 67, bloo...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Your blood glucose is currently within the fasting range of 70-100 mg/dL, and your hemoglobin A1c is between 4-6%. Whether there are issues with your blood vessels can be determined based on your symptoms or through examinations. Generally, these conditions require long-te...[Read More] Understanding Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Levels: Your Health Questions Answered
Managing Diabetes: Weight Loss, Diet, and Cholesterol Control
Diabetes, Weight, and Diet Last October, I was diagnosed with diabetes and started medication—Metformin. At the end of November, I began intermittent fasting (16:8) to lose weight, eating only lunch and dinner. During my follow-up appointment in February, my weight decreased from...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Avoid consuming items that contain refined sugars, such as candies, sodas, cakes, etc. Instead, try to choose less sweet fruits, such as firm guavas and large tomatoes. You should also discuss with your physician how many calories you can reasonably consume each day based ...[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Weight Loss, Diet, and Cholesterol Control
Managing High Fasting Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels: A Guide
Health check-up shows elevated fasting blood glucose levels? Hello Doctor, I had a health check-up in 2021 with a fasting blood glucose level of 100 mg/dL and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol of 139 mg/dL. On January 15, 2022, my fasting blood glucose was 112 mg/dL and t...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It is recommended to avoid foods and beverages that contain alcohol. Fruits and carbohydrate-rich foods, such as desserts, can also lead to issues with blood sugar and blood lipids. It is advised to have a controlled diet for breakfast, and to exercise regularly and consis...[Read More] Managing High Fasting Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels: A Guide
Can You Safely Combine Aldactin and Jardiance for Diabetes?
Medication issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if it is safe to take Aldactone and Jardiance together. Do these two medications harm the kidneys? Is Aldactone suitable for people with diabetes?
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. When there are no contraindications, they can be used simultaneously. 2. When used correctly, they are unlikely to harm the kidneys. 3. Diabetic patients can use Aldactone if necessary.[Read More] Can You Safely Combine Aldactin and Jardiance for Diabetes?
Understanding Blood Abnormalities: Treatment Options and Guidance
Blood disorders Dear Doctor, regarding the following lab results, there are multiple abnormalities in the blood. How should they be treated? Thank you! WBC (White Blood Cell Count): 8590 /μL RBC (Red Blood Cell Count): 5.32 x 10^6 /μL Hgb (Hemoglobin): 10.5 g/dL Hct (Hemat...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, please refer to the Hematology department. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Blood Abnormalities: Treatment Options and Guidance
How to Improve Fasting Blood Sugar After Gestational Diabetes
How to improve fasting blood glucose levels after gestational diabetes? Hello Doctor: During my pregnancy, I strictly controlled my diet due to gestational diabetes, and my blood sugar levels remained within the normal range. After giving birth, I continued to manage my diet, but...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Ms. Lin: It is recommended to continue dietary control and find time to exercise more to manage blood sugar levels. The likelihood of developing high blood sugar in the future due to gestational diabetes is slightly higher than average. Therefore, it is advised to maintain ...[Read More] How to Improve Fasting Blood Sugar After Gestational Diabetes
Understanding High Cholesterol: The Role of HDL and Health Risks
High cholesterol Hello, my mother is currently 61 years old and recently had a health check-up with the following results: height 167 cm, weight 51 kg, BMI 18.3, blood pressure 138/81, pulse 75, blood glucose 102 (slightly elevated), triglycerides 51, cholesterol 322 (severely el...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: High total cholesterol can be partly attributed to high-density lipoprotein (HDL), while low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is a significant factor contributing to cardiovascular disease. Whether or not to take medication depends on health insurance regulations, which consider ...[Read More] Understanding High Cholesterol: The Role of HDL and Health Risks
Managing Excess Male Hormones: Can Endocrinology Help with Facial Hair?
Excessive male hormones Having excessive body hair at the age of 17, along with a significant amount of facial hair and possibly sunken cheeks (which may be influenced by masturbation), can severely affect one's appearance. If you consult an endocrinologist, is it possible t...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, you can visit an endocrinologist to check for any abnormalities.[Read More] Managing Excess Male Hormones: Can Endocrinology Help with Facial Hair?
Understanding Cushing's Syndrome: Symptoms and Diagnosis Insights
Cushing's syndrome endocrine disorder Hello, doctor. For the past month, I have not had my period. My face appears round, and I have what seems to be "buffalo hump" at my collarbone. My mood has become depressed and irritable. My hands have become dry and even crac...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It is recommended to visit a hospital for evaluation and examination by a physician. A diagnosis can only be made after a thorough consultation and examination; one should not rely solely on personal subjective feelings to make a diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Cushing's Syndrome: Symptoms and Diagnosis Insights
Concerns About Diabetes: Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Advice
Suspected diabetes mellitus? Hello Doctor: I recently discovered that I have a problem with excessive drinking, but I don't urinate often. I also feel sleepy after eating. A few weeks ago, I had blood tests and a urinalysis to check my blood sugar, but only the fasting blood...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It is advisable to consult a physician again and provide them with detailed information about your condition.[Read More] Concerns About Diabetes: Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Excessive Body Hair in Young Women: When to Seek Endocrine Help
Endocrine? Hello doctor, I am a 20-year-old woman with no significant medical history, but I have noticed that I seem to have an abnormal amount of body hair. The hair on my arms is almost 2 centimeters long, and some of the hair on my legs is coarse and even curly, resembling ma...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It is advisable for you to consult a professional physician. Don't be afraid to see a doctor.[Read More] Understanding Excessive Body Hair in Young Women: When to Seek Endocrine Help
Can Growth Hormone Therapy Help Increase Height in Young Adults?
Can physicians use growth hormone for treatment? At 21 years old and 148 cm tall, there are limited options for increasing height, as most individuals reach their maximum height by the end of puberty. However, here are some potential approaches: 1. **Consult an Endocrinologist**...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Based on your situation, it may be necessary to consult a specialist to determine if you are a suitable candidate for growth hormone therapy.[Read More] Can Growth Hormone Therapy Help Increase Height in Young Adults?
Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Thyroid issues Hello Doctor, I received the AZ vaccine on August 5th, and about 10 days later, I experienced rapid heartbeat, chest tightness, and some shortness of breath until I sought medical attention on August 19th. My thyroid blood test results were as follows, while other ...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Question 1: The distinction between mild and severe is quite subjective. Based on your values: FT4: 1.86 (reference range 0.59-1.43), it is not significantly above the upper limit. Question 2: Please follow your attending physician's advice; if the doctor has not inst...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
COVID Vaccine and Medication: Can You Take Blood Thinners and Antihistamines?
Vaccine medication consultation Hello, if the timing of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine coincides with my menstrual cycle, can I continue taking Tranexamic Acid as usual within three days after the vaccination (I experience heavy menstrual bleeding and take three tablets a day)? A...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: This issue is not within the scope of metabolic medicine; please refer it to the relevant department. Thank you.[Read More] COVID Vaccine and Medication: Can You Take Blood Thinners and Antihistamines?
Is Essential Thrombocythemia a Rare Disease? Understanding Its Classification and Vaccine Eligibility
Is essential (hemorrhagic) thrombocythemia a rare disease? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing issues with elevated platelet counts since the end of 2015, and I am currently undergoing regular check-ups. I would like to ask: 1. Is the disease classification noted on the Nation...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Lin! This is a blood issue, and it is recommended to consult a hematologist for examination![Read More] Is Essential Thrombocythemia a Rare Disease? Understanding Its Classification and Vaccine Eligibility
Should Patients with Congenital Hypothyroidism Get the AZ Vaccine?
It is recommended to administer vaccines for individuals with congenital hypothyroidism? Hello, doctor. I have congenital hypothyroidism and have been on medication for control. My blood tests have consistently shown normal results. Aside from gastritis and slightly elevated body...
Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, online user: For patients with well-controlled hypothyroidism, if there are no contraindications or precautions regarding the administration of the AZ vaccine, it is recommended that they receive the vaccine.[Read More] Should Patients with Congenital Hypothyroidism Get the AZ Vaccine?