Understanding Cushing's Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Cushing's syndrome? How is it treated? Two years ago, symptoms of Cushing's syndrome appeared (buffalo hump, purple striae on the abdomen, moon facies, and purple striae on both sides of the waist). I consulted a hospital and underwent a blood test, which returned norma...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Cushing's syndrome is typically confirmed through blood tests before proceeding to imaging studies. Sometimes, blood tests may yield false-negative results (indicating no issue when there is one), especially if the symptoms are similar to other conditions. In such cases, fur...[Read More] Understanding Cushing's Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Thyroid Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Unsure if it is a thyroid issue? Hello, Dr. Yang! I am a nursing student. About three months ago, I started working as a telemarketer, and I might have talked too much. I began to feel a sore throat and kept touching my neck, and suddenly I felt that the right side of my neck see...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
It is advisable to consult a physician for a more definitive diagnosis, which will provide greater peace of mind. Thyroid enlargement may be nodular or diffuse. Nodular thyroid enlargement is less likely to present functional issues and is primarily associated with concerns about...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Binge Eating Disorder: Treatment Options and Insurance Coverage
Psychogenic Binge Eating Disorder Hello Dr. Yang: I have been experiencing binge eating due to an excessive focus on weight loss, which I believe is related to psychological factors, possibly indicative of binge eating disorder. Which specialty should I consult? Is there insuranc...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Psychiatric consultation is covered by health insurance.[Read More] Understanding Binge Eating Disorder: Treatment Options and Insurance Coverage
Is There a Link Between Hyperhidrosis and Endocrine Disorders?
Is there a relationship between hyperhidrosis and the endocrine system? Hello, I have a problem with generalized hyperhidrosis. I previously consulted with Dr. Ding from the neurosurgery department, and according to his response, I am indeed an irritable person with elevated bloo...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Excessive sweating, nervousness, and eating a lot without gaining weight may indicate hyperthyroidism. Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism include palpitations, tremors, and increased bowel movements. If these symptoms are present, thyroid function tests should be considered.[Read More] Is There a Link Between Hyperhidrosis and Endocrine Disorders?
Managing Hashimoto's Thyroiditis During and After Pregnancy
Hashimoto's thyroiditis induced by pregnancy? Hello Dr. Yang, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism during my pregnancy in 2002, and I have been monitoring it every six months since then. I am continuously taking thyroid hormone replacement. I would like to ask a few questions...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
1. During pregnancy, the dosage of thyroid hormones often needs to be increased. If normal thyroid function can be maintained, there should be no significant impact on the fetus. 2. Hypothyroidism is often permanent; however, some cases may improve on their own. The efficacy of...[Read More] Managing Hashimoto's Thyroiditis During and After Pregnancy
Understanding Subacute Thyroiditis: Causes, Effects, and Concerns
Thyroiditis Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I experienced pain when swallowing saliva near my throat (on the left side of my neck). I visited an ENT specialist, and the doctor diagnosed me with subacute thyroiditis. However, I do not seem to have the symptoms he mentioned (nervousn...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
<ol><li>The etiology of subacute thyroiditis is not yet fully understood, but it is generally believed to be related to viral infections or autoimmune responses.</li><li>Due to the destruction of the thyroid gland, thyroid hormones are released, which may ...[Read More] Understanding Subacute Thyroiditis: Causes, Effects, and Concerns
Understanding Thyroid Inheritance and Its Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Thyroid inheritance Hello, I would like to ask if thyroid conditions are hereditary, and is the probability one hundred percent? I have recently noticed a slight bulge on both sides of my neck; does this indicate that I am beginning to show symptoms? My grandmother and mother bot...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Thyroid diseases have a genetic predisposition, although the probability is not one hundred percent. It is best for a physician to determine whether there is a thyroid enlargement. During pregnancy, the thyroid may sometimes become slightly enlarged, but this is usually not very ...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Inheritance and Its Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Optimal Timing for Endocrine Testing: Progesterone and Male Hormones
Endocrine examination To check endocrine levels, specifically progesterone and male hormones, what is the appropriate timing? (For example, how long after menstruation?)
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
In females, testosterone levels are generally low and do not exhibit a cyclical pattern, while progesterone does have a cyclical nature. The timing of testing depends on the purpose of the evaluation.[Read More] Optimal Timing for Endocrine Testing: Progesterone and Male Hormones
Understanding Calf Muscle Pain: Causes and Relief Strategies
Regarding calf soreness? Hello Dr. Yang, I often feel soreness in my calf muscles while sleeping at night. My daily routine mostly consists of being a regular office worker during the day and studying at night. I am experiencing muscle soreness; could you please suggest some meth...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Leg soreness is a common symptom and usually does not indicate a specific disease. To check for edema, you can press with your fingers; if the subcutaneous tissue indents and does not quickly return to its original shape, it indicates the presence of edema.[Read More] Understanding Calf Muscle Pain: Causes and Relief Strategies
Understanding Sleep Patterns: Why Do I Feel Better After Less Sleep?
Regarding sleep? I would like to ask, I have been in a state of staying up late for a long time. Whenever I go to bed early, I feel very tired the next day and really want to sleep. However, if I only sleep for a few hours, I feel great the next day, not at all like someone who o...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
This is likely related to one's constitution and does not imply any disease.[Read More] Understanding Sleep Patterns: Why Do I Feel Better After Less Sleep?
Understanding Thyroid Nodules: Risks, Surgery, and Hormonal Impact
Thyroid nodule Hello, Dr. Yang! I would like to ask you: I have discovered a thyroid nodule near my trachea on the right side of my neck for three years. The size of this nodule remained unchanged for the first two years (1x1 cm), but this year it was found to have suddenly incre...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
1. Generally, a total thyroidectomy of the right lobe is performed. 2. General anesthesia is typically used. 3. There should be no interrelationship. 4. Most patients with thyroid nodules have normal thyroid function.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Nodules: Risks, Surgery, and Hormonal Impact
Is Hair Loss After Giving Birth Normal? Understanding Postpartum Changes
Is it normal to experience hair loss after giving birth? Hello, doctor: I gave birth in April, and for the past month, I have been experiencing significant hair loss. Is this a normal phenomenon? I am losing large clumps of hair, whether I am sleeping, washing my hair, or blow-dr...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
There are many causes of hair loss, but most of them have no obvious reason. However, there are certain identifiable causes. Thyroid disorders and autoimmune diseases are more likely to be involved, and sometimes hair loss can occur after childbirth.[Read More] Is Hair Loss After Giving Birth Normal? Understanding Postpartum Changes
Understanding Excessive Sleepiness: Causes and Solutions for Students
I want to sleep? I am currently a student, and no matter how well I slept the night before, I find myself wanting to sleep during the second class. After concentrating for about 40 minutes, I start yawning and feel drowsy (this happens regardless of the class content, as it occur...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Your symptoms are actually commonly reported by patients in outpatient clinics; however, most people later find that there is no underlying disease. If you experience additional symptoms, you may consider visiting an internal medicine clinic for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Excessive Sleepiness: Causes and Solutions for Students
Understanding Jaw Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
It's getting more painful? First of all, thank you, doctor, for taking the time to answer my questions. On June 24, I cried for a long time, and the next day my mouth was sore and difficult to open. On June 26, I experienced a sore throat (with phlegm) and pain near the join...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
You can first schedule an appointment with an otolaryngologist.[Read More] Understanding Jaw Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Managing Vascular Embolism in Elderly Patients: Alternatives to Surgery
Vascular embolism Hello, I would like to inquire about a 92-year-old elderly person at home who has experienced tissue necrosis in one leg due to vascular embolism. Besides surgical intervention, is hyperbaric oxygen therapy effective? Considering the age factor, if surgery is no...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy may have some effects on tissues at the margins of necrosis, but it is not very helpful for tissues that are already necrotic. Not performing surgery carries the risk of sepsis; if surgery is not conducted, only supportive treatment should be provided. I...[Read More] Managing Vascular Embolism in Elderly Patients: Alternatives to Surgery
Managing Hypertension with Hypothyroidism: Which Specialist to See?
Hypertension with hypothyroidism? Which department should a patient with hypertension and hypothyroidism consult? I often need to see two specialists, and sometimes my thyroid medication needs adjustment, which makes frequent hospital visits quite burdensome. Is it possible to se...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
If hypertension and hypothyroidism are relatively well-controlled, it should be sufficient to follow up with just one specialty, as the half-life of thyroid hormones in the body is approximately one week. Missing a dose should not lead to immediate symptoms. The interactions of t...[Read More] Managing Hypertension with Hypothyroidism: Which Specialist to See?
Understanding Unusual Symptoms: Weakness and Rapid Heartbeat When Hungry
I'm not sure if it's an illness? Hello Dr. Yang: In recent years, I've been experiencing a strange condition where I feel weak in my limbs, my heart races, and I shake when I'm hungry. However, these symptoms resolve within ten minutes after eating. I also fee...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Your symptoms resemble those of hypoglycemia. You should visit the endocrinology department for an evaluation. It is important to confirm whether hypoglycemia is present during the time you are experiencing symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Unusual Symptoms: Weakness and Rapid Heartbeat When Hungry
Understanding Thyroid Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Very painful? I would like to ask about my mother, who has a thyroid condition but has undergone surgery and is now healed. Recently, I experienced palpitations, dizziness, and a rapid heartbeat, which led me to seek medical attention. However, after examinations including an ele...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Thyroid diseases have a genetic component. If your mother has a thyroid condition, your risk of developing a thyroid disease is higher than that of the general population. However, thyroid testing is quite definitive. If your thyroid tests have come back normal, it indicat...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Unresolved Heartache: Coping with the Loss of a Loved One
Unresolvable Heartache Hello, Doctor: My mother passed away several years ago, and the cause of her death remains unclear, which has led to my ongoing regret over her passing. I clearly remember that two days before the Dragon Boat Festival seven years ago, my mother felt unwell ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Your mother had a persistent fever before being hospitalized, which likely indicates an infection. In diabetic patients, infections can often be more severe than in the general population. Based on your description, it is difficult to determine whether the cause of death w...[Read More] Unresolved Heartache: Coping with the Loss of a Loved One
Understanding Dry Mouth: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Dry mouth and dry tongue? Hello Doctor: I have been troubled by dry mouth and dry tongue for a long time, and my father has the same issue. I wonder if it could be hereditary? My symptoms are quite strange; I have to drink a lot of water every day, yet I still feel like my mouth ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: There are many people with such symptoms, and most do not have any underlying disease. One more severe condition is "Sjögren's syndrome," which is an autoimmune disease and can be evaluated by a rheumatologist.[Read More] Understanding Dry Mouth: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options