Managing High Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure: Daily Tips for Better Health
What should I do in daily life if my blood sugar is elevated? Hello Doctor: My father recently underwent a health check-up and his blood sugar level was found to be elevated at 119 mg/dL. Additionally, his blood pressure readings showed a systolic pressure of 175 mmHg and a diast...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. QQ: In this situation, elevated blood pressure may simply be due to anxiety. You can bring your home blood pressure monitor to the hospital to compare it with the hospital's machine, which will help determine if there is an issue with your monitor. If the readings...[Read More] Managing High Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure: Daily Tips for Better Health
Managing Cholesterol Levels: Insights for Patients with Hyperthyroidism
About cholesterol? Hello, doctor. I am currently undergoing treatment for hyperthyroidism and am in the medication reduction phase. My physical condition has mostly returned to normal. However, due to the medication, I have gained about two to three kilograms compared to before t...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, In your letter, you mentioned the issue of elevated total cholesterol and triglycerides. The normal total cholesterol level is below 200 mg/dL, and triglycerides should be below 150 mg/dL. While your levels are indeed elevated, it is important to also consider high-densi...[Read More] Managing Cholesterol Levels: Insights for Patients with Hyperthyroidism
Understanding Mild Proteinuria: Causes and Health Implications
Mild proteinuria Hello doctor, I usually consume high-protein drinks, and recently when I went to the hospital for a urine test, the doctor mentioned that I have mild proteinuria. Will this cause any health issues? Thank you.
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Student Chen, The glomeruli in the human body function like a sieve. Under normal circumstances, most proteins do not pass through when blood flows through them. However, factors such as exercise and stress can cause some proteins to leak through, and consuming excessive am...[Read More] Understanding Mild Proteinuria: Causes and Health Implications
Understanding Low Blood Pressure Readings and High Cholesterol Levels
Unable to measure blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels? Yesterday, I went to donate blood, but they couldn't measure my blood pressure twice. I've had similar situations once or twice before. The nurse said it was due to low blood pressure, but when I measure ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Wu, Regarding your inquiry about the inability to measure blood pressure, there are several external factors or issues with the equipment that can contribute to this problem. For instance, a small-sized subject using an inappropriate cuff, wearing clothing that is too t...[Read More] Understanding Low Blood Pressure Readings and High Cholesterol Levels
Managing Diabetes and Diet: Tips for Seniors with Health Concerns
Diabetic pain issues? 1. For a 70-year-old diabetic patient with mild stroke symptoms (due to age and medication-related vascular blockage), elevated uric acid levels, and compromised kidney function, dietary management is crucial. It is recommended to follow a balanced diet that...
Dr. Lai Hexian Reply:
Hello, dietary and health issues vary from person to person, so it is advisable for you to seek further medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital.[Read More] Managing Diabetes and Diet: Tips for Seniors with Health Concerns
Understanding Unexplained Abdominal Pain in Diabetic Patients
Abnormal cutting pain from the skin to the muscle? Hello Doctor, I am consulting on behalf of my mother who is 65 years old and has diabetes and hypertension. For the past few months, she has been suffering from what she describes as cutting pain, which feels somewhat like being ...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen, Regarding your mother's condition, it is indeed most likely explained by diabetic neuropathy. The most important treatment approach is to maintain good blood sugar control. Additionally, for medical consultation, you may consider endocrinology, neurology, or ...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Abdominal Pain in Diabetic Patients
Understanding Diabetes Risk: Genetics, Lifestyle, and Family Health
Diabetic constitution? Hello: My girlfriend's mother gave birth to her around the age of 31 and was diagnosed with diabetes around the age of 34. She had gestational diabetes during her pregnancy with her younger brother, who is now about 20 years old and has been confirmed ...
Dr. Lai Hexian Reply:
Hello, first I will address your questions regarding the first, second, and fourth issues. For most diabetes patients, diabetes can be considered a disease caused by a combination of genetic factors and environmental influences, particularly in the case of type 2 diabetes. Theref...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Risk: Genetics, Lifestyle, and Family Health
Impact of Male Medication on Fetal Health During Pregnancy
The relationship between male medication use and fetal conception? The individual has been diagnosed with chronic Hepatitis B for three months and has been continuously taking Baraclude (entecavir) 0.5 mg due to viral infection. They also have diabetes and have been administering...
Dr. Lai Hexian Reply:
Hello: If diabetes patients can maintain stable control, the process and outcomes of their offspring will be similar to those of the general population (as there is a certain rate of congenital anomalies in the general population). Regarding the use of Belaric, data from Micromed...[Read More] Impact of Male Medication on Fetal Health During Pregnancy
Unusual Behaviors in My Father: Signs of Possible Health Issues?
Some strange behaviors of my dad? Hello, my father is 53 years old and has a long history of smoking and drinking. Recently, he has been exhibiting some strange behaviors, and I am concerned that there may be some changes in his health. He has developed an uncontrollable craving ...
Dr. Lai Junlong Reply:
Response: The public should seek medical attention promptly to investigate the symptoms mentioned regarding their father. Alcohol overdose could potentially lead to neurological disorders, or there may be an underlying condition such as diabetes. It is recommended to first consul...[Read More] Unusual Behaviors in My Father: Signs of Possible Health Issues?
Which Specialist Should You Consult for Eye and Jaw Pain?
Which specialty should I see? Hello, my mother has been experiencing intermittent swelling and pain in her lower eyelids since last year. Before these eyelid issues occur, she often feels pain near the lower jaw area, just below the ears, accompanied by headaches. Taking anti-inf...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Connie, Regarding your daughter's symptoms, it seems challenging to attribute them to a single disease. There are several noteworthy possibilities: 1. Headache: Common chronic headaches include migraines and tension-type headaches. The former tends to significantl...[Read More] Which Specialist Should You Consult for Eye and Jaw Pain?
Understanding Dryness Above the Neck: Causes and Solutions
Feeling dehydrated above the neck? Hello Dr. Tsai: Recently (in the past 1-2 months), I have been experiencing dryness in both eyes, but I have seen an ophthalmologist who said there were no abnormalities. I also have been getting acne around the left side of my mouth, and it app...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Please check for any diabetes, thyroid issues, or dry eye syndrome.[Read More] Understanding Dryness Above the Neck: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Numbness and Redness in Fingers: A Guide for Farmers
Numbness and redness in the fingers? Hello Doctor: My father is a farmer and frequently comes into contact with pesticides and other chemicals, and he often drinks excessively. Recently, he has noticed that the fingers on his right hand are red but not painful. He believes it is ...
Dr. Lai Hexian Reply:
Hello: For all medical conditions with unclear symptoms, I would recommend that you first consult a family medicine specialist. After all, family medicine physicians have a broader training background and can provide a more comprehensive evaluation. As for the relationship with d...[Read More] Understanding Numbness and Redness in Fingers: A Guide for Farmers
Understanding Wound Healing: Allergies and Treatment Options
Wound management Hello Doctor: The wound is not healing and despite returning to the clinic where the doctor changed the medication, the new treatment is not as effective as the original ointment. The new medication does not seem to remove the necrotic tissue, and there are also ...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Lanling, Regarding the reasons why your wound may not be healing, the more common causes include: 1. Infection 2. Localized poor circulation 3. Underlying health issues, such as malnutrition or diabetes. It is advisable to visit a hospital to consult with a physician, o...[Read More] Understanding Wound Healing: Allergies and Treatment Options
Understanding High Triglycerides: How to Lower Your Levels Effectively
Blood draw A blood test shows that your triglyceride level is 175 mg/dL. Is this high? How can I lower it? Thank you.
Dr. Chen Mengkan Reply:
Hello: According to the current standards announced by the National Health Bureau for metabolic syndrome, a triglyceride level greater than 150 mg/dL indicates hyperlipidemia. If the level exceeds 500 mg/dL, immediate pharmacological intervention is required to prevent acute panc...[Read More] Understanding High Triglycerides: How to Lower Your Levels Effectively
Understanding Skin Issues or Other Causes After Intimacy: A Guide
I am not sure if it is a skin issue or something else? After engaging in sexual activity with my boyfriend, his genital area sometimes becomes red and swollen. I consulted an endocrinologist who suggested it might be an issue related to pH balance. However, now there is a more co...
Dr. Chen Yingzhen Reply:
Dear Jessick, It's great to see your concern for your boyfriend's health. However, since this is someone else's issue, if there has been no improvement over a long period, it is advisable to seek medical attention. I would like to provide some information based on...[Read More] Understanding Skin Issues or Other Causes After Intimacy: A Guide
Is It Healthy to Delay Breakfast for Two Hours After Waking Up?
Breakfast eating time Hello, doctor. I have a question that I'm unsure where to place, so I'm asking here. I would like to know if it is acceptable to eat breakfast two hours after waking up when the body is in a normal state? (For example, waking up at 6 AM and having ...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Mr. Li, Hello. In the absence of specific medical conditions such as diabetes or peptic ulcers, having breakfast a little later is generally not an issue. If you do not experience any discomfort, I do not oppose this practice. However, if eating breakfast too late leads to ...[Read More] Is It Healthy to Delay Breakfast for Two Hours After Waking Up?
Essential Tips for Using Protein Supplements to Build Muscle
High-protein supplements Dear Doctor, what should one be aware of when consuming high-protein supplements available on the market for muscle gain?
Dr. Lai Junlong Reply:
Hello: In response to your question. These types of supplements are mostly used by athletes, and high-protein foods can easily increase the burden on the kidneys. Individuals with chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes should select these supplements under the guida...[Read More] Essential Tips for Using Protein Supplements to Build Muscle
Understanding Complications in Diabetes: Addressing Symptoms and Concerns
Diabetes mellitus Hello Dr. Tsai: My father is a diabetic patient. Two weeks ago, he underwent amputation of both big toes due to poor healing of a wound on his right big toe, following the doctor's advice. Over the past two weeks, he has experienced intermittent fever and p...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Diabetic patients often experience poor peripheral circulation, which makes wounds difficult to heal and can lead to recurrent infections, necessitating amputation. Sometimes, even after surgery, wounds remain susceptible to bacterial infections. If the patient also has ot...[Read More] Understanding Complications in Diabetes: Addressing Symptoms and Concerns
Why Am I Always Hungry? Understanding Unexplained Increased Appetite
Recently, I have been feeling very hungry and can't seem to feel full. Is there a problem? Recently, I've been feeling very hungry all the time. I just finished eating, and then I'm hungry again shortly after. I can eat a lot in a day, and my stomach feels empty co...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: If you experience weight gain in a short period due to overeating, the first step is to rule out whether it is caused by emotional disturbances such as excessive excitement or sadness leading to binge eating. Additionally, it is important to exclude the possibility of incr...[Read More] Why Am I Always Hungry? Understanding Unexplained Increased Appetite
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Why Am I Experiencing Low Readings?
I have self-monitoring of blood glucose? I apologize for the confusion earlier. I have not taken medication for 1-2 years. When I feel unwell, I self-monitor my blood sugar, which is about 60 mg/dL under normal circumstances. If I haven't eaten, the body's mechanisms sh...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Typically, when our sugar levels are low, we first burn fat to generate heat and glucose. Patients with Type 1 diabetes experience issues with glucose metabolism due to either insufficient insulin secretion or abnormal insulin function, leading to irregular blood sugar lev...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Why Am I Experiencing Low Readings?