Managing Postprandial Blood Sugar: Can Metformin Restore Normal Levels?
Medications for treating postprandial hyperglycemia? Hello, doctor. I heard that Metformin can be used to treat abnormal postprandial blood sugar levels. Can this medication really help the body return to normal? Once normal levels are achieved, can I stop taking it, or will I ne...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association, a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for more than 8 hours, b. 2-hour plasma glucose level ≥200 mg/dL during an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), c. HbA1c ≥6.5% (m...[Read More] Managing Postprandial Blood Sugar: Can Metformin Restore Normal Levels?
Understanding Diabetes Risk: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
What is the likelihood of developing diabetes? Hello Doctor, Happy New Year! I would like to ask about my fasting blood test results after 12 hours: Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) 78.5, Hemoglobin 24.6, High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) 10.58, Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. Your fasting blood test report shows an average red blood cell volume of 78.5, hemoglobin of 24.6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein of 10.58, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) of 7.7, GOT (AST) of 86, GPT (ALT) of 172, alkaline phosphatase of 110, total iron binding capacity of 5...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Risk: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
How Eating Fruits Affects Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels
Timing for Blood Sugar Measurement Hello doctor, I would like to measure my mother's postprandial blood sugar. After she ate dinner, she had two pieces of cantaloupe half an hour later (she started eating at 18:20 and measured her blood sugar at 20:20, which was 181; however...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. Measuring blood glucose levels two hours after a meal is certainly influenced by all the food consumed during those two hours. However, it seems that there are no clinical guidelines specifying whether or not one can eat fruit after a meal before measuring blood glucose levels...[Read More] How Eating Fruits Affects Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels
Understanding Upper Chest Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Chest tightness in the upper part? This morning, shortly after arriving at the office, I suddenly felt a tightness in the upper part of my chest, accompanied by a slight numbness. After taking a deep breath and relaxing for about 10 minutes, it improved significantly. Since this ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
Your weight is 110 kilograms, and your height is 185 centimeters. Your body mass index (BMI) is 32.1 kg/m². According to the standards published by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, this falls into the category of obesity (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m²). Additionally, if your waist circumfere...[Read More] Understanding Upper Chest Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Thiamazole: Is It an Anticoagulant Due to Its Side Effects?
Medication issues Hello, doctor: I would like to inquire about the medication Propylthiouracil for thyroid issues. It has side effects such as thrombocytopenia or impaired coagulation function. Does this mean it is considered an anticoagulant? I'm a bit unclear if they are t...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. Procil® (PTU, Propylthiouracil 50mg/Tab) concentrates in the thyroid gland after administration, inhibiting the iodination of tyrosine and the coupling of iodinated tyrosine, as well as blocking the conversion of T4 (thyroxine) to T3 (triiodothyronine). The main side effects i...[Read More] Understanding Thiamazole: Is It an Anticoagulant Due to Its Side Effects?
Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Follow-Up
Elevated blood sugar levels in health checkup? The fasting blood glucose level from the health check was measured at 107 mg/dL, and the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is normal. I recently consumed more sweets than usual over the past two weeks. Could this have an impact, or is it u...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. Generally, a normal fasting plasma glucose level is less than 100 mg/dL. If it falls between 100 mg/dL and 126 mg/dL, it can be considered as prediabetes or impaired fasting glucose. Of course, if the postprandial blood glucose is greater than or equal to 126 mg/dL, diabetes s...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Follow-Up
Managing Diabetes: Medication and the Role of B Vitamins
Diabetes medications and B vitamins? Hello Doctor, my father is 57 years old and has been diagnosed with diabetes for over two years. He is currently taking the following three medications: 1. Glucophage 500mg (twice daily, one tablet with breakfast and one with dinner) 2. Glybur...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
The medications your father is taking are as follows: a. Galvus® (Vidagliptin, typically 50 mg). b. Glimet® (containing Glimepiride 2 mg/Metformin 500 mg). c. Lipitor® (available in Atorvastatin 10, 20, and 40 mg dosages). His hemoglobin A1c is 7.6%. 1. I believe the medication...[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Medication and the Role of B Vitamins
Understanding Recurring Knee Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Knee edema keeps recurring? Hello Doctor: I previously fell and injured my left foot, but I'm not sure if this is the reason for the persistent swelling and inflammation in my knee. The first time it swelled, it was so severe that I couldn't walk or bend it at all. I we...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. Knee pain is a common site for sports injuries, degenerative arthritis, inflammatory arthritis, and infectious arthritis. From a clinical anatomical perspective, the joint structures to consider are the medial tibiofemoral, lateral tibiofemoral, and patellofemoral compartments...[Read More] Understanding Recurring Knee Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Glucose Intolerance: Causes, Effects, and Management Strategies
Impaired glucose tolerance 1. If eating a bowl of white rice results in a blood sugar level of around 169 two hours after the meal, while consuming steamed vegetables and wonton soup leads to a blood sugar level of 131 two hours later, does this indicate impaired glucose toleranc...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. Generally, normal postprandial blood glucose levels are less than 140 mg/dL. If the levels are between 140 mg/dL and 200 mg/dL, it is referred to as impaired glucose tolerance. Of course, if postprandial blood glucose is greater than or equal to 200 mg/dL, diabetes mellitus sh...[Read More] Understanding Glucose Intolerance: Causes, Effects, and Management Strategies
Managing Hyperthyroidism: Pregnancy Risks and Treatment Options Explained
Hyperthyroidism issues? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my condition. I have had hyperthyroidism for over a decade, and although my levels were very high in the past, they have been stable and normal for the past two years. My most recent lab results show T3 at 153.35, T4...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
Your question involves issues related to endocrinology and obstetrics; it is advisable to discuss this with your attending physician. 1. There are many causes of hyperthyroidism, with Graves' disease being the most common, likely due to an autoimmune response. Once well-co...[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism: Pregnancy Risks and Treatment Options Explained
Managing Chest Pain After Choking: Symptoms and Solutions
Chest pain Chest pain: I choked on a grain of rice while eating, and now I feel discomfort in my chest rather than my throat. There is a sharp tearing sensation when I cough, and I experience stabbing pain in my chest when lying flat. How should I handle this? Thank you.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
You mentioned experiencing chest pain and a tearing cough after choking on a grain of rice, with an unknown cause. It is recommended that you visit a pulmonology clinic for evaluation; if necessary, some related tests may be required. If you develop a high fever, please go direct...[Read More] Managing Chest Pain After Choking: Symptoms and Solutions
Post-Thyroid Surgery Care: Understanding Follow-Up for Stage II Cancer
Post-operative care considerations after stage II thyroid surgery? I went to the hospital for an examination due to swelling in my neck. Initially, the biopsy report indicated that the thyroid nodule was benign, but since it was 3.5 cm, I was scheduled for a total left thyroidect...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. The surgeon diagnosed a 3.5 cm thyroid nodule, and despite the fine needle aspiration cytology indicating a benign tumor, he decided to perform a left lobectomy due to the tumor's size or other imaging evidence. The pathological report confirmed it was a follicular thyroi...[Read More] Post-Thyroid Surgery Care: Understanding Follow-Up for Stage II Cancer
Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination and Blood Transfusion Risks
Hepatitis B vaccine and blood transfusion issues? Having received the hepatitis B vaccine and confirmed the presence of antibodies indicates a strong level of protection against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. However, while vaccination significantly reduces the risk of contra...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. In our country, if the hepatitis B vaccine is administered according to the schedule, it will produce antibodies against the hepatitis B surface antigen, thus providing protection; you are currently in this situation. 2. On the other hand, blood donation centers conduct screen...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination and Blood Transfusion Risks
Choosing the Right Hospital and Doctor for Diabetes Management
Diabetes physician Hello Doctor: When the examination report confirms diabetes, how should I choose a hospital and a physician for consultation? This is really troubling me.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes is a metabolic disease characterized by a defect in the secretion of insulin by the pancreatic beta cells, resulting in either an insufficient amount of insulin or inadequate action of insulin, leading to elevated blood glu...[Read More] Choosing the Right Hospital and Doctor for Diabetes Management
Understanding Post-Spin Bike Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Discomfort after cycling on a stationary bike during fitness training? Hello Dr. Hsiao, on October 23rd (Friday), after finishing my meal, I did a sprint cycling workout for about 3-5 minutes at the fitness center in the basement of my school. After that, I felt unwell, my face t...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. Engaging in any form of exercise must be gradual to allow the body's various systems to make appropriate adjustments and adaptations. Implementing high-intensity physical training abruptly can be quite dangerous from a medical standpoint. On the other hand, aspects such a...[Read More] Understanding Post-Spin Bike Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Blood Test Insights and Next Steps
Mediterranean anemia Hello, based on my blood test report, is it possible that I have Mediterranean anemia? What is the likelihood? Or what additional tests should I undergo? Thank you. RBC: 5.28 (Male: 4.2-6.2; Female: 3.7-5.5) MIL/cumm Hemoglobin: 13.2 (Male: 12.3-18.3; Fem...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. The complete blood count and hemoglobin electrophoresis tests you provided should ideally be ordered by a physician, who should also provide a thorough discussion and explanation of the results. If you have any further questions, please be sure to discuss them with your physic...[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Blood Test Insights and Next Steps
Is Your Back Pain a Sign of Kidney Deficiency? Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help
I'm not sure if it's kidney deficiency? Hello, I would like to ask the doctor about a situation. I previously worked part-time lifting heavy objects, and at that time, my posture was poor. After finishing the lifting on that day, I felt something unusual around my lower...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
"Kidney deficiency" is a term used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, commonly understood as dysfunction of the endocrine system, kidney function, or sexual function. However, from the perspective of evidence-based medicine, if you experience lower back pain due to liftin...[Read More] Is Your Back Pain a Sign of Kidney Deficiency? Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Managing Cellulitis in Diabetic Patients: Effective Strategies and Care
Cellulitis Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my boyfriend's mother, who is 59 years old and a diabetic patient. She was diagnosed with cellulitis on September 27 and has been hospitalized for two weeks. The doctors have indicated that her blood circulation has not im...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. Long-term diabetes patients require a combination of diet, exercise, and medication to prevent macrovascular complications (including stroke, myocardial infarction, and peripheral artery disease) and microvascular complications (including retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropat...[Read More] Managing Cellulitis in Diabetic Patients: Effective Strategies and Care
Does Warfarin Use Affect Fasting Blood Sugar Levels?
Anticoagulant Warfarin & Blood Glucose Levels Dear Doctor, I have been taking 2 mg of warfarin daily for 2 months, but I have noticed that my fasting blood sugar has risen to between 105 and 113, whereas it was around 83 to 89 two months ago. Does taking warfarin for anticoag...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. Coumarin anticoagulants include warfarin and dicumarol (previously known as bishydroxycoumarin), which exert their effects by antagonizing the coenzyme function of vitamin K. This means that several proteins involved in the coagulation cascade (including coagulation factors II...[Read More] Does Warfarin Use Affect Fasting Blood Sugar Levels?
Understanding Diabetic Foot vs. Post-Thrombotic Syndrome: Key Differences
What is diabetic foot? Dear Doctor, I had a deep vein thrombosis in my calf two months ago. A month ago, an ultrasound showed no signs of a clot. However, every day after I wake up, my calf gradually becomes hard and swollen for about two hours. When I lie down for an hour in the...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. Common clinical causes of edema include heart failure, cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, venous obstruction, lymphatic disorders, and medication side effects. Other causes may include hypoalbuminemia, parasitic infections, thyroid diseases, pregnancy, and venous insufficiency, am...[Read More] Understanding Diabetic Foot vs. Post-Thrombotic Syndrome: Key Differences