Understanding Kidney Function Tests: Creatinine, BUN, and GFR Explained
Renal function tests: creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), glomerular filtration rate (GFR)? I have chronic kidney disease stage 3. About 10 days ago, I had a blood test (fasting) with the following results: creatinine 2.0, BUN 31, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) 40. Today...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
According to your inquiry, stage 3 chronic kidney disease is defined as a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) between 30 and 59 ml/min/1.73m². The two test results you provided, 40 and 51 ml/min/1.73m², do show a difference, even though both fall within stage 3. Due to the lack of b...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function Tests: Creatinine, BUN, and GFR Explained
Pentoxifylline for Reducing Creatinine Levels: Efficacy and Duration
Kidney problems Dear Doctor: Is Forflow (Pentoxifylline 400mg) effective in reducing creatinine levels? How long can it be taken continuously?
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
Based on your inquiry, although no background information was provided, Pentoxifylline 400mg can be used in patients with chronic kidney disease. The effects may vary from person to person, and if there are comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia, these co...[Read More] Pentoxifylline for Reducing Creatinine Levels: Efficacy and Duration
Understanding Persistent Hematuria: Should You Be Concerned?
Long-term hematuria? I have been experiencing hematuria for five consecutive years, with urine tests showing +1 to +2 results. I have undergone microscopic examinations three times, which also revealed 6-9 red blood cells. Both urine and blood tests have consistently returned nor...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
There are many causes of hematuria, ranging from stones, glomerulonephritis to tumors. If there are no other abnormalities (such as proteinuria, renal function impairment, or abnormal ultrasound findings), please continue with regular follow-ups. Thank you for your inquiry. The N...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Hematuria: Should You Be Concerned?
Why Do Urine Bubbles Persist Without Proteinuria? Understanding Kidney Health
The presence of bubbles in urine that do not dissipate after flushing may indicate the presence of protein in the urine, even if there is no proteinuria. This can occur due to various factors, such as the concentration of urine, the presence of certain substances, or even the phy...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
Everyone will have proteinuria; it is just a matter of whether it exceeds the standard. Based on the data you provided, TOTAL Protein (urine) is 5.6 and creatinine (urine) is 70.36. We can calculate the proteinuria as approximately (5.6/70.36)*1000 = 79 mg/g, which is less than 1...[Read More] Why Do Urine Bubbles Persist Without Proteinuria? Understanding Kidney Health
Understanding High Cholesterol in Underweight Individuals: A 22-Year-Old's Case
Very thin with high cholesterol? Hello doctor, I am 22 years old, 176 cm tall, and weigh 49 kg, which is quite thin. However, my total cholesterol is 201, which exceeds the standard. Due to my work schedule, I often have irregular sleeping patterns and eat convenience store food....
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
In response to your inquiry regarding oral isotretinoin, it is important to note that a small percentage of patients may experience an increase in blood lipids. It is advisable to monitor lipid levels after discontinuing the medication; if levels decrease, this may indicate a rel...[Read More] Understanding High Cholesterol in Underweight Individuals: A 22-Year-Old's Case
Understanding Symptoms When Creatinine Levels Reach 12 mg/dL
When creatinine levels reach 12, the body may exhibit symptoms such as severe fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and decreased urine output. Additionally, patients may experience swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes due to fluid retention. It is crucial t...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
First, confirm whether the test values are accurate, and then distinguish between acute and chronic conditions. If it is chronic, it typically falls under stage 5 chronic kidney disease, which is often associated with symptoms of uremia (fatigue, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, los...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms When Creatinine Levels Reach 12 mg/dL
Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis: Protein and Leukocytes Explained
The health examination report shows issues with urinary protein and urinary white blood cells? Hello, currently my urine protein is protein*15(+/-)(mg/dL) and leukocyte*70(1+)(cell/uL), while all other urine tests are within normal ranges. Only the two items above are highlighted...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
If the physical examination shows urine protein at protein*15(+/-)(mg/dL), it cannot be definitively determined that there is proteinuria. It is recommended to consult a nephrologist for further evaluation to clarify the condition. Regarding leukocyte esterase at leukocyte*70(1+)...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis: Protein and Leukocytes Explained
Understanding Arrhythmias in Dialysis Patients: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Dialysis-related arrhythmias Hello Doctor: I am a dialysis patient (for over four years now), and during the dialysis process, I often experience episodes of arrhythmia. Occasionally, sitting up helps alleviate the symptoms. I have undergone multiple 24-hour Holter monitor tests,...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
Based on your description, the cardiologist's preliminary assessment suggests that the palpitations are likely not of a dangerous nature. However, we understand that they have impacted your quality of life and caused distress. It may be beneficial for you to discuss with you...[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmias in Dialysis Patients: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Causes and Concerns
Creatinine levels are slightly elevated? Doctor: Due to having high blood pressure, I have been undergoing routine check-ups for over a decade. My creatinine levels were consistently between 1.04 and 1.08, but this month it suddenly increased to 1.23. I recently changed jobs and ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
Based on your description, the change in creatinine (CRE) levels may indeed be related to your use of anti-inflammatory pain medications, combined with excessive sweating. If you are not adequately hydrating, this could also impact kidney function. It is recommended to discontinu...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Persistent Right Lower Abdominal Pain in Seniors: Causes and Specialist Recommendations
Right lower abdominal pain? My grandmother was born in 1934 and is currently 76 years old. She has been experiencing chronic pain in her lower right abdomen. Recently, she was hospitalized due to a gastric ulcer and underwent both colonoscopy and gastroscopy. The results showed a...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
There are many potential causes for right lower abdominal pain, ranging from the gastrointestinal system to the urinary and reproductive systems. It is advisable to consult your original gastroenterologist for appropriate examinations or referrals (to urology or obstetrics and gy...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Right Lower Abdominal Pain in Seniors: Causes and Specialist Recommendations
Managing Long-Term Low Potassium: Symptoms and Next Steps
Chronic hypokalemia Hello Doctor 👋 # I have been experiencing low potassium, proteinuria, mild anemia, and diarrhea for over a year! My body often feels unwell with symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, numbness in my hands, nausea, palpitations, diarrhea, high blood pressure, and...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
Based on your inquiry, chronic hypokalemia primarily falls under the domain of nephrology, and it is advisable to consult a nephrologist for better coordination in managing your condition. Thank you for your question; the Nephrology Department at Changhua Hospital is here to supp...[Read More] Managing Long-Term Low Potassium: Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat and Kidney Health: Do You Need Dialysis?
Sought medical attention due to rapid heartbeat? Due to experiencing a rapid heartbeat and occasional lower back pain, a series of tests were conducted. Initially, it was thought to be a heart issue, but later it was found that the blood CR(B) level is 1.04, uric acid is 7.8, cho...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
Based on the data you provided, a serum creatinine level of 1.04 corresponds to an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) greater than 60, which falls within the normal range, and there is no need to worry about dialysis. As for your elevated uric acid and cholesterol levels...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat and Kidney Health: Do You Need Dialysis?
Understanding Urination Issues: When to See a Doctor?
Urinary problems I would like to ask if it is necessary to see a doctor or to pay for an abdominal X-ray or ultrasound? Blood and urine tests have all come back normal, but I feel that there is a significant difference between the amount of water I drink and the amount I urinate....
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
According to the data you provided, a serum creatinine level of 0.9 corresponds to an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) greater than 60, which falls within the normal range. Regarding your input/output from 9/18 to 9/21, with an intake of 8700 cc and an output of 3750 c...[Read More] Understanding Urination Issues: When to See a Doctor?
Managing Hematuria While Waiting for Ureteroscopy: What You Need to Know
Questions about hematuria during the waiting period for surgery? Hello Doctor, I have been diagnosed with kidney stones. The stones are approximately 1.5-2 centimeters in size, and I am currently waiting for a ureteroscopy for lithotripsy. However, during this waiting period, I h...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
Kidney stones can cause symptoms such as hematuria, but this does not necessarily indicate the volume of bleeding (which is usually minimal). Since a surgery date has already been scheduled, it is best to wait for the procedure to be completed. Thank you for your inquiry. The Nep...[Read More] Managing Hematuria While Waiting for Ureteroscopy: What You Need to Know
Understanding Sudden Increase in Creatinine Levels: Causes and Concerns
Short-term rapid increase in creatinine levels? Hello Dr. Wu, On August 28, 2021, I went to the hospital for a blood test. On that day, I checked the report online and found that my creatinine level had risen to 1.28. The creatinine levels from the previous four months were 1.0...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
Regarding the definition of chronic kidney disease (CKD), you mentioned that the five data points you provided indicated the presence of urinary protein, which alerted you to your kidney function. The four measurements of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were 75, 83, 75, and 79 m...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Increase in Creatinine Levels: Causes and Concerns
Managing Chronic Illness in Hot Environments: Risks and Tips
Chronic diseases in hot environments? Hello, I have renal tubular dysfunction (currently around stage 3 chronic kidney disease) and diabetes. Due to my job, I need to spend about half an hour outdoors in the sun or in hot environments every noon for business. After finishing my w...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
Regarding the care of diabetes combined with chronic kidney disease, please pay attention to the control of the "three highs" (high blood sugar, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol) to prevent the worsening of the condition. If you need to work in a hot environmen...[Read More] Managing Chronic Illness in Hot Environments: Risks and Tips
Understanding Urine and Blood Test Results: Are They Normal?
I would like to inquire about the urine and blood test report? Hello Doctor, I have recently noticed small bubbles floating in my urine. I had urine and blood tests done this month, with results showing a creatinine level of 0.9, a glomerular filtration rate of 96.6, a uric acid ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
According to the data you provided, the blood tests (creatinine and uric acid) are normal, and the urine microalbumin level is 0.6 mg/dL. Although there is no comparison with urine creatinine, it is evident that this value is normal. Despite the presence of bubbles observed visua...[Read More] Understanding Urine and Blood Test Results: Are They Normal?
Understanding Drug Reactions: When to Seek Medical Attention
Drug reactions Hello Dr. Wu, last night at 9:30 PM, I took one tablet of Pei Nian (a light orange round tablet) because my face was a bit allergic. After taking it, I felt very drowsy one hour later and slept for 8 hours. Upon waking up, I felt dizzy and unsteady while walking. A...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
Pyrilamine is an antihistamine, and one of its most common side effects is drowsiness. The duration of this drowsiness can vary from person to person; some individuals may experience it for an entire day. Therefore, it is not advisable to engage in activities that require mental ...[Read More] Understanding Drug Reactions: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Heart Discomfort During Dialysis: Causes and Solutions
Discomfort in the heart during dialysis? Dear Dr. Wu, I have a family member, a 30-year-old female, who has been undergoing dialysis treatment for nearly two years. Recently, she experienced a sudden myocardial infarction and underwent cardiac catheterization and coronary artery...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
Based on your inquiry, the hemoglobin measurement is approximately 21-25, which is low. After blood transfusion, you may discuss with your physician whether erythropoietin (EPO) or iron supplements are adequate or if there are other bleeding issues (such as gastrointestinal bleed...[Read More] Understanding Heart Discomfort During Dialysis: Causes and Solutions
Dietary Recommendations for Managing Elevated Creatinine and Low Kidney Function After Liver Transplant
Diet for Liver Disease (Elevated Creatinine + Low Glomerular Filtration Rate) After liver transplantation, I have been attending regular follow-up appointments. Each time, my lab results show low red blood cell count (2.4), low hemoglobin (11), elevated creatinine (1.3), and low ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine
According to your description, a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 43 is indeed low; however, we should not focus on a single data point but rather on the trend. It is important to determine whether 43 is lower than previous values or if it remains stable within a range (for ex...[Read More] Dietary Recommendations for Managing Elevated Creatinine and Low Kidney Function After Liver Transplant