Understanding Chin and Nose Acne: Is It Really Hormonal Imbalance?
Acne on the chin and on both sides of the nose is often attributed to "hormonal imbalance." I have been seeing doctors for nearly ten years for my acne problem, which fluctuates and is quite frustrating. I used to seek treatment from dermatologists, but my acne has neve...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: The likelihood of endocrine disorders causing this is low. However, if there are accompanying symptoms such as irregular menstruation, masculinization, or abnormal obesity, it would be more reasonable to consider the possibility of an endocrine issue.[Read More] Understanding Chin and Nose Acne: Is It Really Hormonal Imbalance?
Understanding Congenital Hypothyroidism in Newborns: Next Steps for Parents
Congenital Hypothyroidism During the newborn health check at birth, it was indicated that there is congenital hypothyroidism with a level of 14. The hospital did not inform whether further detailed examinations are necessary. Based on your expertise, could you provide recommendat...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It is advisable to consider blood tests for further examination, and if necessary, thyroid hormone replacement therapy may be required.[Read More] Understanding Congenital Hypothyroidism in Newborns: Next Steps for Parents
Thyroid Eye Disease vs. Myasthenia Gravis: Understanding Eyelid Drooping
Hyperthyroidism can cause left eyelid ptosis and diplopia? In May of this year, I experienced difficulty focusing my eyes. After an examination at Veterans General Hospital, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. Following treatment, my hyperthyroidism showed significant improveme...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Hyperthyroidism may be associated with myasthenia gravis, and if the diagnostic criteria for myasthenia gravis are met, a diagnosis of myasthenia gravis can be made. Hyperthyroidism is less likely to cause ptosis.[Read More] Thyroid Eye Disease vs. Myasthenia Gravis: Understanding Eyelid Drooping
Understanding Your Dizziness: Is It Related to Liver Health?
Is there a problem with the liver? I've been feeling dizzy for the past few days, with my blood pressure often around 86. However, when I went to the hospital, it was measured at 109, which the doctor said is normal. The doctor also suggested checking if I have a cold, exami...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Dizziness is a nonspecific symptom that many individuals do not have any correlation with underlying diseases. Generally, it is not significantly related to blood pressure, blood sugar, liver function, or thyroid function.[Read More] Understanding Your Dizziness: Is It Related to Liver Health?
Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Impact
Questions about hyperthyroidism? I have been aware of my thyroid abnormality for 11 years, characterized by a goiter. Eleven years ago, my thyroid tests were normal, and I was advised to have regular follow-ups. However, in recent years, my neck has become increasingly swollen, a...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: In this situation, medication typically needs to be used long-term, and it may even be required for a lifetime. The treatment effect on thyroid enlargement may not be very effective. Surgery is hoped to provide a permanent solution. Additionally, you may discuss the possib...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Impact
Understanding Thyroid Enlargement: Concerns and Next Steps for Patients
Goiter Hello Dr. Yang: I consulted with Dr. Dong Jin-jia at Taoyuan General Hospital's Internal Medicine Department. The examination revealed that I have an enlarged thyroid gland. I have been taking a medication called Antithyroid for 9 months. For the first 6 months, the s...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. Thyroid enlargement needs to be differentiated as either diffuse goiter (where the entire thyroid gland is enlarged) or thyroid nodules (which may consist of one or more nodules), so the ultrasound results will determine which type it is. 2. Some thyroid enlargements ca...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Enlargement: Concerns and Next Steps for Patients
Managing Lymphedema After Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered
Lymphedema Dear Doctor: My mother is 70 years old. Six years ago, she underwent surgery for stage II breast cancer, during which 8 lymph nodes were removed, and she received 12 sessions of chemotherapy. Her recovery has been good overall, but she occasionally experiences upper li...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. Please avoid consuming too much salt, as the weather can have unclear effects. 2. If you experience redness, swelling, heat, or pain, seek medical attention immediately, preferably from the original surgeon. Additionally, regular follow-ups are important. 3. Antibiotics...[Read More] Managing Lymphedema After Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Hormonal Imbalances: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Endocrine issues Dr. Yang, I have abnormal hormone secretion with low estradiol (E2) and elevated prolactin levels. My obstetrician-gynecologist believes that treatment is not necessary, but mentioned that this is caused by poor pituitary function. Should I see an endocrinologist...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: There are many reasons for elevated prolactin levels, one of which is a pituitary tumor. The higher the prolactin level, the greater the likelihood of a pituitary tumor. If there is a significant increase in prolactin, further evaluation should be considered.[Read More] Understanding Hormonal Imbalances: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Electrolyte Imbalance Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help
Electrolytes Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance can vary depending on which electrolytes are affected and the severity of the imbalance. Common symptoms include: 1. Muscle cramps or spasms 2. Weakness or fatigue 3. Nausea or vomiting 4. Confusion or changes in mental status 5. Ir...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Bai Bai: Electrolyte imbalance covers a wide range of issues, and it is unlikely for young individuals to experience symptoms related to this. It is recommended to seek medical attention based on the primary symptoms presented.[Read More] Understanding Electrolyte Imbalance Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help
Managing Thyroid and Heart Medications: What You Need to Know
Thyroid medication and cardiac medication (hypothyroidism)? After my mother visited the doctor, she was prescribed two medications: one is a thyroid hormone replacement, Eltroxin 0.1 mg (white round tablet), and the other is a cardiovascular medication, Concor 5 (yellow heart-sha...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello, sister: Patients with hypothyroidism who experience palpitations and tremors after using Eltroxin should consider dosage issues. Many individuals require lifelong use of Eltroxin. After treatment for hypothyroidism, patients can undergo surgery for other medical conditions...[Read More] Managing Thyroid and Heart Medications: What You Need to Know
Understanding Foamy Urine: Is It a Sign of Kidney Issues?
The presence of many bubbles in urine during urination may indicate a potential issue with the kidneys? When urinating, if you notice a lot of bubbles in the urine and feel something hard on the left side of your abdomen, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Thes...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello, men who are afraid of injury: Foamy urine may indicate proteinuria, but it can also be normal. A simple urinalysis can determine this. If there is suspicion of an abdominal mass, you should consult a physician for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Foamy Urine: Is It a Sign of Kidney Issues?
Understanding Hand Numbness: Causes and Treatment Options
The hands often experience numbness? Doctor, I have been experiencing hand numbness unexpectedly for about five years. It seems to occur more frequently when I am tired. I have cervical spondylosis with bone spurs, and I am currently undergoing rehabilitation at the hospital. Cou...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Ah Shu: Cervical osteophytes can compress nerves, leading to neurological symptoms, including sensations of numbness. Rehabilitation therapy may be beneficial, but in more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.[Read More] Understanding Hand Numbness: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Poor Blood Circulation: Symptoms and Solutions
Poor blood circulation? Hello Doctor: In recent days, whenever I sit (for less than an hour), I quickly experience numbness below my hips, and when I stand up, it feels like my blood flow is very slow. Recently, I've also started to feel tightness on the right side of my nec...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: The symptoms you described are more indicative of neurological issues rather than a specific disease condition. Having menstruation only once every three months is considered abnormal, and there could be many potential causes. It is advisable to consult a gynecologist for ...[Read More] Understanding Poor Blood Circulation: Symptoms and Solutions
Understanding Thyroid Antibodies: Symptoms, Exercise, and Health Tips
Question I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism about six months ago. I discovered it when I noticed severe swelling in my legs after standing for too long; pressing on my legs left a significant indentation. My thyroid antibody levels have been steadily increasing from 45 to 52. M...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Hyperthyroidism may cause patients to feel easily anxious and excited. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism typically show significant improvement within 1 to 2 months after treatment begins, and there should be no specific restrictions in daily life.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Antibodies: Symptoms, Exercise, and Health Tips
Dietary Recommendations for Managing Hyperthyroidism in Elderly Patients
80-year-old patient with hyperthyroidism? Hello, my father is an 80-year-old patient with hyperthyroidism. Do you have any dietary recommendations for elderly patients like him? I only know that he should avoid foods high in iodine, such as kelp, seaweed, and seafood, but I'...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello Vicky: The principle for managing hyperthyroidism is to reduce iodine intake. Foods that are highest in iodine include seaweed and kelp, so it is best to minimize their consumption. Other various foods also contain some iodine, but if restrictions are too strict, it can sev...[Read More] Dietary Recommendations for Managing Hyperthyroidism in Elderly Patients
Confused Patient: Navigating Complex Symptoms and Specialist Referrals
Confused patient Dear Dr. Yang, Since April or May of last year, I have been experiencing follicular lesions on my lower body and thighs. After about 20 days of medication treatment, the condition was controlled. However, I later developed swelling and skin breakdown on my eyeli...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello Kelly: Your issue does not seem to have a relevant underlying cause, and it may be necessary to consult the specialty you are currently seeing.[Read More] Confused Patient: Navigating Complex Symptoms and Specialist Referrals
Understanding Hormonal Changes in Men Over 40: Effects and Solutions
Male hormones 1. After the age of 40, do men experience a decrease in hormone secretion? 2. What are the effects of decreased hormone levels on the body? 3. Some articles mention that hormone replacement therapy may be associated with cancer risks. If one chooses to increase horm...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Unlike women, men do not experience a defined menopause. Testosterone levels in men over 40 do not significantly decline, and only a small portion of older men may experience a decrease in testosterone. Whether hormone replacement therapy is necessary in these cases remain...[Read More] Understanding Hormonal Changes in Men Over 40: Effects and Solutions
Understanding Chronic Fatigue: When to Seek Medical Advice
Fatigue Hello doctor, I have been feeling very fatigued lately. I exercise regularly every week, but I still feel tired every time I wake up. I also get easily fatigued after walking a short distance, and I tire quickly during exercise, unlike before when I felt more energetic. W...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Fatigue is a common clinical symptom, and if it persists for an extended period, it may warrant further investigation. However, in such cases, most individuals typically have normal test results.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Fatigue: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding the Connection Between Bloating and Lymph Node Pain
Lymph nodes Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing frequent bloating in my stomach, to the point where I sometimes can't sleep well. Following that, I feel pain in my lymph nodes and nerves throughout my body. Is there a connection between these symptoms?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Generalized lymphadenopathy is not a common clinical symptom; it is likely neuropathic pain and does not have a direct correlation with gastrointestinal symptoms.[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Bloating and Lymph Node Pain
Understanding Thyroid Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Dietary Advice
Thyroid issues Hello Doctor: My family member previously went to the hospital for a thyroid function test, which showed T3: 136, T4: 8.27, TSH: 13.3. Later, during a follow-up test, the TSH level increased to over 51. I have a few questions: 1. What could have caused this? 2. My ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Normal T3 and T4 levels with a slight increase in TSH are referred to as subclinical hypothyroidism, indicating that the thyroid gland is showing a tendency towards dysfunction. However, due to compensatory mechanisms, thyroid function remains normal. If TSH rises to 51, it is ne...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Dietary Advice