Understanding Glomerular Pressure Relief Therapy for Kidney Health
I would like to ask questions related to the kidneys? Dear Dr. Yang, My father has been suffering from long-term diabetes, and he recently visited Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital. The doctor informed us that if his kidney function continues to deteriorate, he will soon need ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
The renal glomerular decompression therapy you mentioned likely refers to certain antihypertensive medications that can reduce glomerular pressure, which is beneficial for diabetic nephropathy. This approach is currently widely used; however, it may only slow the progression of t...[Read More] Understanding Glomerular Pressure Relief Therapy for Kidney Health
Understanding Neck Swelling: When to Seek Medical Advice
Swelling of the neck? I have noticed that the right side of my neck is swollen more than the left side over the past couple of days, and I want to see a doctor but I'm not sure which specialty to consult. Today, I also noticed that the left side is slightly swollen as well, ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
It seems to be a thyroid issue; you can consult an endocrinologist. Both diabetes and thyroid diseases have a familial tendency, but there is not a significant correlation between diabetes and thyroid disorders.[Read More] Understanding Neck Swelling: When to Seek Medical Advice
Where to Find Thyroid Ultrasound Biopsy in Emergency Rooms?
Thyroid gland Could you please let me know which hospital's emergency department offers thyroid ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy? Please respond as soon as possible! Thank you.
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Thyroid ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy is not considered part of emergency services; typically, this examination would not be provided in a hospital emergency department.[Read More] Where to Find Thyroid Ultrasound Biopsy in Emergency Rooms?
Understanding Thyroid-Related Exophthalmos: Can It Affect One Eye?
Exophthalmos caused by thyroid dysfunction? I heard that hyperthyroidism can cause bulging eyes, but is it possible for only one eye to bulge? If the bulging eyes are caused by thyroid issues, is there a chance that they can return to their original appearance after treatment?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Thyroid eye disease caused by hyperthyroidism primarily affects both eyes, although it can occasionally occur in just one eye. When the hyperthyroidism is effectively treated, the condition of the eyes does not necessarily improve.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid-Related Exophthalmos: Can It Affect One Eye?
Understanding Potassium-Deficient Muscle Disorders in Hyperthyroidism
Hypokalemic myopathy caused by hyperthyroidism? Hello Doctor. I had a question on October 14, 2006, which you kindly answered, helping my mother and me feel less anxious about her condition. For the past four months, my mother has been consistently taking her medications (Methima...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
It is quite common in clinical practice for patients to exhibit a tendency towards hypothyroidism while on the same dosage of medication. Management may involve temporarily discontinuing the medication or reducing the dosage, but it is essential to monitor thyroid function to adj...[Read More] Understanding Potassium-Deficient Muscle Disorders in Hyperthyroidism
Can I Manage Hyperthyroidism Without Medication?
Is it possible to avoid taking medication? Hello doctor, I have a history of hyperthyroidism. I took medication for about two years, and it improved slightly, so I stopped the medication. However, recently I've been under a lot of work stress and staying up late every day, w...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
It is quite common for hyperthyroidism to relapse after discontinuation of medication, and there is no direct correlation with high work-related stress. If a relapse is confirmed, it is advisable to seek medical attention. There are several treatment options to consider, and life...[Read More] Can I Manage Hyperthyroidism Without Medication?
Improving Metabolism: Tips for Managing Weight and Blood Sugar Levels
Metabolism Hello: Three years ago, my weight was 92 kg, but it has now dropped to 63 kg. In July of this year, I went to a testing facility for an examination, and the report indicated high blood sugar and high urine protein. The technician only mentioned that my "metabolism...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
High blood sugar indicates diabetes. If there is significant weight loss, blood sugar levels are likely very high, and immediate medical attention is required. You should consult a metabolic specialist.[Read More] Improving Metabolism: Tips for Managing Weight and Blood Sugar Levels
Understanding the Risks and Management of Benign Thyroid Tumors
Follow-up on benign thyroid tumors? Hello Doctor: I have a benign thyroid nodule on the right side of my neck (approximately 1.5 cm; it feels round to the touch) that has been monitored at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital for five years. I undergo fine needle aspiration (FNA) ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
If the follow-up has been for 5 years and the biopsy results have consistently been benign, the likelihood of malignancy is low. A higher number of cells in the biopsy does not necessarily indicate an increased chance of malignancy; other factors must also be considered. Currentl...[Read More] Understanding the Risks and Management of Benign Thyroid Tumors
Does Eating Pears Before Blood Sugar Tests Affect Results?
Will eating honey pears the day before a blood sugar test affect the results? I am currently 163 cm tall and weigh 63 kg, which I consider to be overweight. In the one to two weeks leading up to my company's health check, I usually eat two honey pears (a type of Asian pear) ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
1. Fasting for 8 hours meets the standard. 2. You have abnormal fasting blood glucose, but it has not yet reached the diabetes threshold (fasting blood glucose greater than 126 mg/dL). However, your risk of developing diabetes in the future is higher than that of the general popu...[Read More] Does Eating Pears Before Blood Sugar Tests Affect Results?
Is a Blood Sugar Level of 120 a Sign of Diabetes Risk?
A blood glucose level of 120 mg/dL indicates that you may be at risk for developing diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, a fasting blood glucose level of 100 to 125 mg/dL is classified as prediabetes, which increases the likelihood of progressing to type 2 di...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: A fasting blood sugar level of 120 is slightly elevated, but it does not yet meet the diagnostic criteria for diabetes. However, since both of your parents have diabetes, your risk of developing diabetes in the future is significant. This is not closely related to drinking...[Read More] Is a Blood Sugar Level of 120 a Sign of Diabetes Risk?
Managing Allergic Reactions After Thyroid Antibody Treatment: What to Do?
Is it possible to experience allergic reactions after taking thyroid antagonists? Hello Doctor: My mother recently discovered that she has thyroiditis. Following the doctor's instructions, she has avoided seafood and has been taking her medication on time, which has shown so...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If you experience an allergic reaction while taking thyroid medication, you may consider using antihistamines initially. If the allergy issue persists and cannot be resolved, the medication should be discontinued, and alternative treatments for hyperthyroidism should be co...[Read More] Managing Allergic Reactions After Thyroid Antibody Treatment: What to Do?
Understanding Hyperthyroidism in Teenagers: A Parent's Guide
Regarding my daughter's hyperthyroidism! Hello, Doctor: My daughter had a slight swelling in her neck during a school health check, which raised concerns about hyperthyroidism. After a thorough examination at the hospital, it was concluded that there is indeed an enlargement...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If there is only mild enlargement of the thyroid gland and thyroid function is normal, then it is sufficient to just monitor the condition without the need for treatment.[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism in Teenagers: A Parent's Guide
Understanding Uric Acid Levels: Do They Indicate Gout?
Uric acid Hello, I would like to ask about my previous foot pain. I went to see a doctor and the test results showed that my uric acid level is slightly higher than normal. Does this mean I have gout? Should I get another test done? Is gout a condition that can be completely cure...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If the uric acid level is high along with typical symptoms of a gout attack, a diagnosis of gout can generally be made. However, if only the uric acid level is elevated without typical attacks, it cannot be diagnosed as gout. Most gout treatments are effective, and after a...[Read More] Understanding Uric Acid Levels: Do They Indicate Gout?
Managing Muscle Weakness from Hyperthyroidism-Induced Hypokalemia
Hypokalemic myopathy caused by hyperthyroidism? Hello: My mother suddenly became unable to stand last month and even had to rely completely on a wheelchair for mobility. After diagnosis, the doctor said it was a potassium-deficient myopathy caused by hyperthyroidism. Her initiall...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Patients with hyperthyroidism who undergo pharmacological treatment show a rapid decrease in T3 and T4 levels, while the recovery of TSH levels is slower. The difference between TSH levels of 0 and 0.008 should take into account the sensitivity of the assay, which may not be clin...[Read More] Managing Muscle Weakness from Hyperthyroidism-Induced Hypokalemia
Understanding Hypothyroidism: Should You Supplement Iodine or Avoid It?
excuse me? Hypothyroidism is indeed often caused by iodine deficiency. I have been under the care of a physician at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital for the past five years, and the doctor has advised me to consume more seaweed and nori. The doctor also prescribed Thyroxine sodium fo...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: In Taiwan, hypothyroidism is rarely caused by iodine deficiency; rather, excessive iodine intake can lead to thyroid dysfunction. The medication you are taking is thyroid hormone, which directly supplements the deficiency in thyroid function. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Hypothyroidism: Should You Supplement Iodine or Avoid It?
Understanding High Uric Acid Levels: Health Impacts and Dietary Solutions
Hyperuricemia The blood test results indicate a total cholesterol level of 201, triglycerides at 69, blood urea nitrogen at 11.4, creatinine at 0.9, and uric acid at 7.5. Elevated uric acid levels can lead to health issues such as gout, which is characterized by painful joint inf...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hyperuricemia can lead to gout, but the likelihood of a gout attack due to mild elevations in uric acid is low. Avoiding high-purine foods can help lower uric acid levels in the blood. High-purine foods include organ meats, seafood, legumes, and meat gravies.[Read More] Understanding High Uric Acid Levels: Health Impacts and Dietary Solutions
Managing Hypothyroidism: Medication, Side Effects, and Dietary Tips
Hypothyroidism As a patient with hypothyroidism, do I have to rely solely on medication (Thyroxine sodium) for management? Are there any long-term side effects of taking this medication? What dietary considerations should I be aware of? Thank you, Dr. Yang!
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Hypothyroidism can be a permanent condition, requiring lifelong medication. If the dosage is appropriate, there should be minimal side effects. In principle, it is advisable to avoid high-iodine foods (such as kelp and nori), as they may exacerbate hypothyroidism.[Read More] Managing Hypothyroidism: Medication, Side Effects, and Dietary Tips
Excessive Sweating: Causes and Solutions for Uncontrollable Perspiration
I sweat easily? I often sweat excessively, even after just ten minutes of work. I only do not sweat in two situations: 1. when the temperature is 24 degrees Celsius, and 2. when I am resting. Is there any way to address this issue?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
If there are no accompanying symptoms, it does not indicate a disease manifestation; it can only be attributed to individual constitution factors, and there may be no specific treatment required.[Read More] Excessive Sweating: Causes and Solutions for Uncontrollable Perspiration
Excessive Sweating Without Odor: Should He See a Doctor?
Excessive sweating without odor? Hello! I'm not sure if this question should be directed to a metabolic specialist, but I appreciate your help! My boyfriend is 24 years old, and he recently told me that while working with marble, he starts sweating profusely at the slightest...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
The symptoms you described are not clear indicators of a specific disease; if only the mentioned symptoms are present, there is no need to seek medical attention.[Read More] Excessive Sweating Without Odor: Should He See a Doctor?
Understanding Thyroid Nodules: Causes, Monitoring, and Management Tips
Thyroid enlargement Hello, I recently went to the hospital for a thyroid examination. The doctor told me that my blood tests were normal and the biopsy results were also normal. However, I am still unsure about the cause, as the doctor mentioned it might be an autoimmune issue. H...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
There are many possible causes of thyroid enlargement, with autoimmune issues being a common reason. In many cases, the cause of thyroid enlargement cannot be identified. General recommendations include avoiding high-iodine foods, monitoring for symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, a...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Nodules: Causes, Monitoring, and Management Tips