Understanding Salagen for Sjögren's Syndrome: Effects and Side Effects
Is there any side effect of taking Salagen for Sjögren's syndrome as introduced by the physician? My mother has severe dry eye syndrome and experienced difficulty swallowing six months ago. After a physician's diagnosis, she was found to have Sjögren's syndrome and...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Salagen has been shown to improve symptoms in patients with Sjögren's syndrome, including increased secretion of tears and saliva. Side effects may include sweating, flushing, diarrhea, and palpitations. It is advisable to adjust the dosage based on individual toleran...[Read More] Understanding Salagen for Sjögren's Syndrome: Effects and Side Effects
Frequent Urination Without Sweating: Is It a Medical Concern?
Diarrhea If I don't sweat, I keep running to the bathroom. Is this a medical issue? I drink about 2300 cc of water every morning. Does this have an effect?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
1. Your performance does not show any signs of illness. 2. It should have no impact.[Read More] Frequent Urination Without Sweating: Is It a Medical Concern?
Thyroid Health During Pregnancy: Risks and Precautions for Mothers
Thyroid gland Doctor, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism around 1980. I didn't have surgery and took medication for almost a year, after which I recovered. I also had regular follow-ups for several years, and everything was fine. I heard from my doctor that those with hype...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Thyroid function should be monitored during pregnancy, and routine newborn screening typically includes thyroid testing.[Read More] Thyroid Health During Pregnancy: Risks and Precautions for Mothers
Severe Pain Under Right Arm: Possible Causes and Solutions
I am experiencing severe pain in my right forearm? I have been experiencing severe pain in the area of my right arm extending to my chest for the past month. The pain worsens when I exert force, and I also have difficulty turning over while sleeping. What could be the issue? Than...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
It is likely to be neuromuscular pain; however, other causes cannot be ruled out. If the symptoms persist, medical attention should be sought.[Read More] Severe Pain Under Right Arm: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding the Risks of Unchecked Thyroid Enlargement Without Symptoms
Goiter I have no discomfort in my body, and my thyroid function has been checked and found to be normal. If there is a structural issue causing my neck to appear enlarged, what could be the consequences of not having it examined?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
If there is a suspicion of thyroid enlargement upon palpation, especially with the presence of nodules, a thyroid ultrasound is necessary. However, if the neck appears enlarged but there is no suspicion of thyroid enlargement upon palpation, it is generally not required to perfor...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Unchecked Thyroid Enlargement Without Symptoms
How to Improve Acidic Body Conditions: Tips and Treatment Options
How to improve an acidic body condition? Hello Dr. Yang: Regarding the title question, how can I improve my acidic body condition? Are there any methods like "injections or medications" available? I cannot frequently consume acidic foods due to my diet, so I would like ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
In Western medicine, the concept of an "acidic body" is not considered a legitimate diagnosis. Humans require only small amounts of vitamins, and a normal diet typically does not necessitate vitamin supplementation. Excessive vitamin supplementation does not provide ben...[Read More] How to Improve Acidic Body Conditions: Tips and Treatment Options
Understanding Neck Swelling: When to Seek Further Thyroid Evaluation
Neck swelling I previously visited a doctor for a cold, and during the examination, the doctor noticed that my neck was slightly enlarged. They recommended that I undergo a thyroid examination. After having blood tests, it was found that my thyroid function was normal. However, t...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Patients with thyroid enlargement may not necessarily have abnormal thyroid function. A thyroid ultrasound can determine if there are structural issues, and this examination is covered by health insurance.[Read More] Understanding Neck Swelling: When to Seek Further Thyroid Evaluation
Why People with Phenylketonuria Should Avoid Aspartame
Individuals with phenylketonuria should avoid consuming aspartame? Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid consuming aspartame because it contains phenylalanine, an amino acid that they cannot metabolize properly. Accumulation of phenylalanine in the body can lead to ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Aspartame is a polymer of amino acids, one of which is phenylalanine. Phenylketonuria is a metabolic disorder caused by the inability to properly metabolize phenylalanine, so consuming aspartame may exacerbate this condition.[Read More] Why People with Phenylketonuria Should Avoid Aspartame
Weight Loss Services: Body Fat Measurement and Blood Pressure Checks
Is there a weight loss option available? Hello Dr. Yang: I would like to ask if there are any weight loss programs available here? Do they include services for measuring body fat and blood pressure? Thank you.
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
The Metabolism Department of Hsinchu Municipal Hospital offers weight loss services, and typically measures body fat and blood pressure during consultations.[Read More] Weight Loss Services: Body Fat Measurement and Blood Pressure Checks
Can Thyroid Enlargement Cause Nausea? Understanding Symptoms and Treatments
Can the thyroid gland cause nausea? Hello, I would like to ask if an enlarged thyroid can cause a feeling of nausea? I often feel nauseous after meals to the point where I wish I could remove it to feel better, and touching the area of the thyroid makes me uncomfortable, or even ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Thyroid enlargement can sometimes cause patients to feel a sensation of neck pressure. Generally, medication is effective. If there are significant compressive symptoms (such as tracheal compression), surgery may be recommended for the patient.[Read More] Can Thyroid Enlargement Cause Nausea? Understanding Symptoms and Treatments
Post-Thyroid Cancer Surgery: Essential Care and Lifestyle Tips
Thyroid malignancy Hello Doctor: I underwent a thyroid malignancy resection on February 12th, and it is now the end of February. I will return for a follow-up appointment around March 20th. I would like to ask: (1) What precautions should I take after the surgery? For example, re...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
After surgery for thyroid cancer, radioactive iodine treatment is often considered. In addition to limiting iodine intake from food as much as possible before radioactive iodine scans or treatments, there are generally no restrictions on food intake at other times. If a total thy...[Read More] Post-Thyroid Cancer Surgery: Essential Care and Lifestyle Tips
Understanding the Symptoms of Hypothyroidism: A Comprehensive Guide
Hypothyroidism Hello, doctor: What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Mild hypothyroidism may not present any noticeable symptoms, while more severe hypothyroidism can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, edema, and constipation.[Read More] Understanding the Symptoms of Hypothyroidism: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Thyroid Function Issues: Seeking Answers After Normal Test Results
Thyroid dysfunction issues? Hello: Previously, I had a cold and visited a small clinic where the doctor suspected I might have a thyroid issue. I then went to a larger hospital for testing, but when the blood test results came back, the doctor said everything was normal. However,...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Thyroid diseases have a hereditary tendency. When you visit a clinic, the physician may suspect a thyroid issue, which could indicate thyroid enlargement. Individuals with an enlarged thyroid may have normal thyroid function tests. If you experience symptoms such as palpitations,...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Function Issues: Seeking Answers After Normal Test Results
Can Hyperthyroidism Trigger Anxiety Symptoms? Understanding the Connection
Anxiety I would like to ask the doctor: Currently, my hyperthyroidism is generally under control, but I would like to know if hyperthyroidism can more easily trigger anxiety disorders? I often feel anxious, pessimistic, and I frequently experience unexplained anger and irritabili...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Hyperthyroidism can trigger anxiety disorders. Some individuals use antithyroid medications to normalize thyroid function, but certain symptoms may not completely disappear, possibly due to a pre-existing tendency.[Read More] Can Hyperthyroidism Trigger Anxiety Symptoms? Understanding the Connection
Understanding Excessive Sweating: When to Seek Medical Advice
Questions about excessive sweating? Hello, Director Yang: I have a question to ask you. I sweat excessively all over my body, not just from my hands. I regularly play tennis and basketball, and my friends often suggest that I see a doctor due to how much I sweat. Even when I clim...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
It is more likely related to constitution; however, some endocrine disorders (such as thyroid or pituitary gland diseases) can also cause excessive sweating. It may be advisable to consult a specialist in metabolic disorders.[Read More] Understanding Excessive Sweating: When to Seek Medical Advice
Daily Beverage Consumption and Its Impact on Diabetes Risk
Diabetes mellitus? Dear Doctor, may I ask: If I drink at least one type of commercially available beverage every day, will it increase my risk of developing diabetes? (I still drink water regularly.) Thank you for your response!
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Research conducted abroad has found that individuals with a higher sugar intake in their diet have an increased risk of developing diabetes. Therefore, what you mentioned may have a slight impact, but the effect is likely to be not very significant.[Read More] Daily Beverage Consumption and Its Impact on Diabetes Risk
Understanding the Risks of Hyperhidrosis Surgery: A Call for Patient Satisfaction Surveys
Severe complications of palmar hyperhidrosis should undergo a postoperative satisfaction survey (as per the Department of Health's correspondence)? Currently, the methods for treating palmar hyperhidrosis, such as cauterizing or cutting the second or third sympathetic nerve ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. A second or third thoracic sympathetic nerve ablation surgery will not cause anhidrosis of the head, unless the first thoracic sympathetic nerve is affected during the procedure, which could lead to such a complication. 2. Compensatory hyperhidrosis occurs in about ...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Hyperhidrosis Surgery: A Call for Patient Satisfaction Surveys
Managing Moon Face: Strategies for Post-Thyroid Surgery Recovery
Moon facies due to edema? Several years ago, I suffered from thyroid dysfunction and underwent a period of medication treatment, initially with traditional Chinese medicine and later seeking help from Western medicine (approximately six years). However, I did not see significant ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
After treatment for hyperthyroidism, there is a tendency to gain weight, which typically stabilizes after a period of time. If there is facial swelling, it is important to consider whether there is a problem with postoperative hypothyroidism.[Read More] Managing Moon Face: Strategies for Post-Thyroid Surgery Recovery
Supporting a Young Friend with Type 1 Diabetes: Essential Care Tips
A 20-year-old patient with diabetes!? Hello Doctor: I am truly at a loss and would like to seek your advice. I have a female friend who has informed me that she has a hereditary form of diabetes, diagnosed as Type 1 diabetes. She must inject insulin daily to maintain her blood su...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
1. If there are abnormalities in foot sensation, the risk of foot ulcers increases. It is important to regularly inspect the feet. If there are sensory abnormalities or a history of foot ulcers, custom footwear may be considered. 2. For young women with reasonably controlled bl...[Read More] Supporting a Young Friend with Type 1 Diabetes: Essential Care Tips
Understanding Thyroid Enlargement: Causes, Treatment Options, and Dietary Impact
Goiter Hello Dr. Yang: I have a problem with thyroid enlargement. Could you please explain why this issue occurs? Is it caused by an abnormal diet? If so, would surgical treatment be necessary, or can it be managed with medication?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Thyroid enlargement can be tumor-related, associated with environmental thyroid stimulants, or linked to iodine deficiency in certain regions. Treatment is less common, and in most cases, a clear cause cannot be identified. The treatment approach for thyroid enlargement depends o...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Enlargement: Causes, Treatment Options, and Dietary Impact