Differentiating Plummer's Disease from Thyroiditis: A Patient's Guide
Plummer's disease and thyroiditis? How can I differentiate between thyroiditis and Plummer's disease? I discovered I had thyroid enlargement during a health check-up. In late May, I visited a doctor who tested my FT4 levels and said they were normal. An ultrasound indic...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Thyroid nodules associated with hyperthyroidism (Plummer's disease) can generally be treated with radioactive iodine or surgery. If the patient is unwilling to accept these options, medication treatment is also a viable alternative.[Read More] Differentiating Plummer's Disease from Thyroiditis: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Elevated TSH Levels: Causes, Treatment, and Precautions
Elevated TSH levels? Hello Doctor: My T3 and T4 levels are normal, but my TSH level is elevated. Does this indicate hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, and how should it be treated? What precautions should I take? Thank you.
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
There is a tendency towards hypothyroidism, and treatment is not currently necessary. It is advised to avoid high-iodine foods (such as nori and kelp) and to monitor thyroid function at regular intervals.[Read More] Understanding Elevated TSH Levels: Causes, Treatment, and Precautions
Understanding Palpitations and Dizziness: Should You See a Doctor?
Palpitations, dizziness? Experiencing dizziness, palpitations, a feeling of shortness of breath that requires deep breathing, and slight weakness or trembling in the hands every afternoon may indicate a thyroid issue. It is advisable to consult a doctor for an evaluation and nece...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Thyroid function tests can be conducted to determine if there are any thyroid function issues. Based on the description of the symptoms, the possibility of hyperthyroidism exists, but it is not very high.[Read More] Understanding Palpitations and Dizziness: Should You See a Doctor?
Understanding Postpartum Hair Loss: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help
Long-term hair loss? I would like to ask, ever since I became pregnant and now that my child is almost two years old, I have been experiencing significant hair loss. What could be the cause of this hair loss? Does it require treatment? Are there medications available for it? I wa...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
There are many causes of hair loss, most of which do not have a clear medical reason. If significant thinning has occurred and baldness is developing, it may be advisable to consult a dermatologist.[Read More] Understanding Postpartum Hair Loss: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Strong Urine Odor: Is It a Sign of Diabetes?
Urological issues Hello Dr. Yang, after I urinate in my girlfriend's bathroom, she always thinks my urine has a strong odor. She suspects that I might have diabetes, which could be causing the strong smell. Is this true?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Diabetes does not present with such symptoms. If you are concerned, you can check your blood sugar levels to rule out diabetes.[Read More] Understanding Strong Urine Odor: Is It a Sign of Diabetes?
Understanding Thyroid Dysfunction and Tumors: Key Differences Explained
Thyroid dysfunction and thyroid tumors? Hello, doctor! I would like to ask if there is a difference between thyroid antibodies and thyroid tumors. A family member of mine had surgery due to a thyroid tumor, and I noticed that thyroid issues can cause hair loss. Additionally, duri...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can be associated with hair loss; however, most cases will present with other symptoms. The thyroid gland does not always exhibit noticeable enlargement. If you do not have other signs suggestive of thyroid disease, it may be advisable to f...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Dysfunction and Tumors: Key Differences Explained
Can a 15-Year-Old Still Grow Taller? Insights for Parents
Can a 15-year-old still grow taller? Hello Dr. Yang, I would like to ask you about my son who is currently 14 years and 7 months old. He has mild cerebral palsy affecting his motor neurons, which prevents him from running and jumping like other children. He has a slight tendency ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If you have hypothyroidism, you should prioritize treatment for this issue. Hospitals with a metabolism department should be able to handle it.[Read More] Can a 15-Year-Old Still Grow Taller? Insights for Parents
Understanding Unusual Lumps Under the Armpit: Causes and Treatment
Abnormal phenomena in the axillary region..? My wife is currently 32 years old. Recently, she has noticed a lump or lymph node-like swelling under the skin, with slight tenderness on both sides. The pain disappeared after one day, and the swelling on the left side resolved after ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Swollen axillary lymph nodes may be due to infection, tumors, or other less common causes. If there are painful axillary lymph nodes, it is advisable to consult an infectious disease specialist first.[Read More] Understanding Unusual Lumps Under the Armpit: Causes and Treatment
Understanding Cortisol Treatment: Lifelong Use, Side Effects, and Risks
Cortisol Hello Dr. Yang: I underwent adrenal tumor resection in July 2004 and only had a follow-up examination in February 2006. On February 26, 2006, my cortisol level was approximately 14.1 and ACTH was about 44.6 (I don't remember the exact decimal values) (I was not on m...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Adrenal insufficiency after adrenal tumor surgery can potentially recover. Taking supplemental corticosteroids will not lead to excessive side effects from steroids. If corticosteroids are not supplemented, the deficiency will become more apparent during times of physical stress,...[Read More] Understanding Cortisol Treatment: Lifelong Use, Side Effects, and Risks
Managing Chronic Thyroiditis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Lifestyle Impact
Chronic thyroiditis Hello: I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism two years ago, and after treatment, I was found to have chronic thyroiditis with hypothyroidism in February of this year. After treatment, my TSH level has decreased to 7, but I still experience symptoms such as edem...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
It is not uncommon for hyperthyroidism to transition to hypothyroidism after a period of time. Theoretically, treating hypothyroidism should not be difficult, and normal thyroid function can be restored in a short period. Generally, daily activities are not affected.[Read More] Managing Chronic Thyroiditis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Lifestyle Impact
Understanding Allergies: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis in Children
Allergy Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you a question. My brother has been experiencing allergies since the end of last year, but he doesn't know what caused them. He is unsure if it was something he ate or if he came into contact with certain plants that triggered the a...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
You can visit the rheumatology and immunology outpatient clinic, where certain tests can help identify allergens.[Read More] Understanding Allergies: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis in Children
Understanding Sleep Issues and Sexual Dysfunction in Hyperthyroidism Patients
Is it a problem caused by hyperthyroidism? Hello, Doctor! I have hyperthyroidism and have been undergoing treatment for over six months. My condition is generally well-controlled with daily medication. However, for the past three months, I have been struggling with a particular i...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
After treatment for hyperthyroidism, if thyroid function returns to normal, these symptoms should not occur and are more likely to be attributed to psychological factors.[Read More] Understanding Sleep Issues and Sexual Dysfunction in Hyperthyroidism Patients
Managing Hyperthyroidism: Addressing Hair Loss and Treatment Options
Hyperthyroidism Hello, Doctor. I have been on medication for hyperthyroidism for four months now, taking METHIMAZOLE and PROPRANOLOL 10 mg, one tablet each daily. My next outpatient appointment is in June, but I have experienced significant hair loss in the past week or two, whic...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
If thyroid disease is accompanied by significant hair loss, currently, there are no other specific treatment options aside from managing thyroid function.[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism: Addressing Hair Loss and Treatment Options
Managing High ACTH Levels: Key Questions and Concerns Explained
Elevated ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone) Levels (Part 2) Thank you very much for Dr. Yang's response. I still have a few questions to ask Dr. Yang: 1. Can high ACTH levels be controlled just by medication? 2. If I have been taking medication for over four months withou...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
If the initial diagnosis is adrenal insufficiency, then the rise in ACTH should be a result of a feedback mechanism. If the elevated ACTH is due to a tumor causing excessive secretion, it would initially present with signs of adrenal hyperfunction. I am not aware of whether long-...[Read More] Managing High ACTH Levels: Key Questions and Concerns Explained
Understanding High ACTH Levels: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Elevated ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone My son has high ACTH levels, consistently between 400 and 500. He has undergone examinations at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, including an MRI, which came back normal. However, after taking medication for four months, his levels have not...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Addison's disease is a disorder of the adrenal glands that leads to adrenal insufficiency. Adrenal insufficiency causes an increase in adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands. When adrenal func...[Read More] Understanding High ACTH Levels: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Managing Thyroid-Related Eye Issues After Surgery: What You Need to Know
Thyroid eye disease? Hello: In 1997, I underwent surgery for hyperthyroidism at a women's and children's hospital in Kaohsiung. Prior to that, I had been on medication for a year to manage the condition. I have been undergoing follow-up checks every six months. In Febru...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Thyroid-related eye disease is not necessarily directly related to the status of hyperthyroidism. Mild eye changes do not require specific treatment, while more severe cases may consider corticosteroids or even radiation therapy. The impact of diet is minimal, but it is advisable...[Read More] Managing Thyroid-Related Eye Issues After Surgery: What You Need to Know
Height Concerns for a 16-Year-Old: Can Growth Hormones Help?
I am currently a high school freshman, and I have urgent concerns about my height? Hello, I would like to ask some questions regarding height. I am a 16-year-old male, and my height is only 154 cm, with poor growth conditions. Recently, I went to Chang Gung Memorial Hospital for ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
If bone age assessment indicates that significant height growth is no longer expected, there are currently no proven effective methods to increase height.[Read More] Height Concerns for a 16-Year-Old: Can Growth Hormones Help?
Understanding Dark Circles: Which Specialist Should You Consult?
Dark circles I have been troubled by dark circles under my eyes for a long time, and going to bed early doesn't help. Is it due to poor metabolism or something else? I've heard that nasal allergies can cause dark circles, but I don't have any nasal allergies. There...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Dark circles are not a sign of a specific disease; if there are no other symptoms, it is not necessarily required to see a doctor.[Read More] Understanding Dark Circles: Which Specialist Should You Consult?
Understanding Osteoporosis at 22: Causes and Treatment Options
Osteoporosis at the age of 22? Hello doctor... I was diagnosed with osteoporosis at the age of 18. Recently, I went to the hospital for a check-up, and the orthopedic doctor said my osteoporosis has progressed from stage two to stage three. Although I don't like to exercise,...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
Some endocrine issues can lead to osteoporosis. Given your symptoms, hyperthyroidism should be considered, and you may want to consult with an endocrinologist.[Read More] Understanding Osteoporosis at 22: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Elevated Potassium Levels: Causes, Risks, and Management
Hyperkalemia Hello Dr. Yang, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and went for an examination on January 12, 2006. The results showed TSH < 0.01, Free T4 > 6.00, K: 4.6. Consequently, the doctor prescribed METHIMAZOLE 2 tablets three times a day, PROPRANOLOL 10 mg 1 tablet ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
In males with hyperthyroidism, some individuals may experience hypokalemia. Other thyroid conditions have little relation to potassium levels. A potassium level of 5.5 is approximately at the upper limit of normal, and with normal renal function, it may not be significant. It can...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Potassium Levels: Causes, Risks, and Management