Managing Diabetes: Weight Loss, Diet, and Cholesterol Control
Diabetes, Weight, and Diet Last October, I was diagnosed with diabetes and started medication—Metformin. At the end of November, I began intermittent fasting (16:8) to lose weight, eating only lunch and dinner. During my follow-up appointment in February, my weight decreased from...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Avoid consuming items that contain refined sugars, such as candies, sodas, cakes, etc. Instead, try to choose less sweet fruits, such as firm guavas and large tomatoes. You should also discuss with your physician how many calories you can reasonably consume each day based ...[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Weight Loss, Diet, and Cholesterol Control
Understanding Elevated RF Levels: Implications for Autoimmune Disorders
Rheumatoid factor (RF) is elevated in rheumatoid arthritis? Hello Doctor, I have had an allergic constitution since childhood and have been receiving treatment in the rheumatology and immunology department for long-term issues related to my nose and urticaria. During my last visi...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If the test results mentioned above are all the examinations you have undergone, I believe there are additional tests that can be arranged. If you are very concerned and unsure about whether to take quinine, I suggest you consult another rheumat...[Read More] Understanding Elevated RF Levels: Implications for Autoimmune Disorders
Understanding Your HIV Test Results: What Does a 0.184 Value Mean?
HIV testing issues Hello doctor, I went to the hospital for a blood test to check for HIV using the ELISA method due to some issues (definitely not related to casual encounters or needle exposure). My test result was 0.184. I would like to know if this indicates a possible infect...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
The methods for HIV testing are as follows: (I) Preliminary Screening Tests 1. Prior to screening, health education should be provided, including: reasons for screening, assessment of infection risk, explanation of transmission routes, clarification of confidentiality regarding ...[Read More] Understanding Your HIV Test Results: What Does a 0.184 Value Mean?
Should Stable Type 2 Diabetes Patients Continue Visiting Medical Centers?
Do patients with stable type 2 diabetes still need to continue follow-up visits at a medical center? Hello Doctor, I apologize for the interruption! I would like to ask you a question. I have been living with type 2 diabetes for over seven years. After discovering this issue duri...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If blood sugar levels can be consistently controlled, it is recommended that you transfer to a primary care medical facility for management. It is best to choose a facility that has a physician specializing in metabolic disorders or one that is part of a diabetes collaborative ca...[Read More] Should Stable Type 2 Diabetes Patients Continue Visiting Medical Centers?
Understanding Anal Itching: Is It a Sign of Infection or Hemorrhoids?
Anal itching Last week, I accidentally ate several slices of undercooked refrigerated pork while having hot pot with my child. I later observed that neither my child nor I experienced diarrhea or abdominal pain. However, for the past two to three days, I have felt a slight itchin...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: The chance of contracting parasites in Taiwan is quite low! Most parasites die at low temperatures in the freezer, so the risk of infection is primarily associated with consuming fresh raw meat. If the pork slices have been frozen, the risk is actually very low. Additional...[Read More] Understanding Anal Itching: Is It a Sign of Infection or Hemorrhoids?
Managing High Fasting Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels: A Guide
Health check-up shows elevated fasting blood glucose levels? Hello Doctor, I had a health check-up in 2021 with a fasting blood glucose level of 100 mg/dL and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol of 139 mg/dL. On January 15, 2022, my fasting blood glucose was 112 mg/dL and t...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to avoid foods and beverages that contain alcohol. Fruits and carbohydrate-rich foods, such as desserts, can also lead to issues with blood sugar and blood lipids. It is advised to have a controlled diet for breakfast, and to exercise regularly and consis...[Read More] Managing High Fasting Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels: A Guide
Understanding Kidney Issues: Rising Urine Protein Despite Improved Creatinine Levels
Kidney problems On 03/19/2011, creatinine was 1.18, urine protein was 5, urine creatinine was 53.12, and urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (uPCR) was 94.12. On 10/09/2010, creatinine was 1.26, urine protein was 17, urine creatinine was 108.7, and uPCR was 156.11. On 11/03/200...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
According to your inquiry, although the serum creatinine levels show little variation (ranging between 60-70), the urinary protein levels are gradually increasing. In addition to pharmacological management of hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia, the prevention and treatmen...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: Rising Urine Protein Despite Improved Creatinine Levels
Understanding ANA Test Results: What Do They Mean for Your Health?
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) issues? Hello Doctor, my blood test report shows an ANA antibody titer of 1:80 with Pattern 1: homogeneous and Pattern 2: fine speckled. In a second test at a different hospital, the ANA was 40 (-). The doctor said there are no antibodies, and the anti-...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. The first test showed an ANA titer of 1:80, but the second test showed none at all. Does this mean there is a higher chance of being negative and healthy? --> I believe the antibody levels may be low, which can le...[Read More] Understanding ANA Test Results: What Do They Mean for Your Health?
Understanding Infection Risks from Injections: Subcutaneous vs. Intramuscular
Infection issues? When receiving an injection, if I did not pay attention to whether the needle was new, and considering that I am not in Taiwan where the equipment is reusable, the injection was administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly. 1. What is the risk of infection for...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infection. B. B...[Read More] Understanding Infection Risks from Injections: Subcutaneous vs. Intramuscular
Understanding Low Positive ANA Results: Concerns and Implications
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer 1:80 inquiry? Hello, Director. I apologize for bothering you, but I would like to ask you a few questions. In October of last year, I had a blood test at Taichung Veterans General Hospital that revealed an ANA titer of 1:80 (the hospital considers...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. Is it possible that the abnormal ANA antibodies in October are caused by thyroid antibodies? --> Yes, it is possible. Since ANA is a comprehensive screening antibody, when weakly positive or positive, it should be...[Read More] Understanding Low Positive ANA Results: Concerns and Implications
Understanding STD Risks from Kissing and Oral Contact in Massage Settings
Half-service establishments, French kissing, and wet kissing? Hello, doctor. Recently, I visited a massage parlor where I engaged in several minutes of French kissing, wet kissing, mutual nipple licking, fondling, finger stimulation, and manual stimulation with massage oil, but I...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to data provided by the Centers for Disease Control, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infectio...[Read More] Understanding STD Risks from Kissing and Oral Contact in Massage Settings
Understanding Hypothyroidism: Key Questions and Management Strategies
Hypothyroidism Hello, here are some test results: Anti-TPO Ab: 428 (8/26), 242.7 (9/17); TSH: 0.01, Free T4: 0.63, Free T3: 1.6 (9/16); TSH: 8.611, Free T4: 0.67, T3: 0.51 (10/7); TSH: 4.881, Free T4: 0.75 (11/4); TSH: 1.317, Free T4: 1.12 (12/2); TSH: 0.791, Free T4: 1.05 (2/12)...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Thyroid function should be maintained within the normal range, which may vary slightly among different medical institutions. A positive TPO antibody indicates the possibility of Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Currently, cholesterol levels are slightly elevated and dietary control ...[Read More] Understanding Hypothyroidism: Key Questions and Management Strategies
Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis: Medication, Exercise, and Inflammation Concerns
Medication usage and exercise? Hello Doctor: I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. 1) I have been taking Secukinumab for six months, and it has been effective in controlling my condition. However, recently, despite unchanged medication, my pain and inflammation levels have ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, online friend. 1) Autoimmune diseases have a characteristic of fluctuating symptoms, which may not always be related to medication issues. 2) Vaccines can activate autoimmune diseases or trigger immune abnormalities in approximately 5%-10% of cases. 3) The impact of food i...[Read More] Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis: Medication, Exercise, and Inflammation Concerns
How to Improve Fasting Blood Sugar After Gestational Diabetes
How to improve fasting blood glucose levels after gestational diabetes? Hello Doctor: During my pregnancy, I strictly controlled my diet due to gestational diabetes, and my blood sugar levels remained within the normal range. After giving birth, I continued to manage my diet, but...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin: It is recommended to continue dietary control and find time to exercise more to manage blood sugar levels. The likelihood of developing high blood sugar in the future due to gestational diabetes is slightly higher than average. Therefore, it is advised to maintain ...[Read More] How to Improve Fasting Blood Sugar After Gestational Diabetes
Understanding High ANA Levels: Implications for Fertility and Immune Health
Unexplained elevated immune issues? Hello, doctor. I am planning for pregnancy and underwent preconception screening, which revealed an ANA of 160+. I do not have any related symptoms (except for occasional knee pain, which the doctor said is not related to immunity). I later had...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Elevated levels of ANA and RF are not significantly related to difficulties in conception. It is recommended to first examine structural issues, including both male and female reproductive systems and sperm count. If no abnormalities are found,...[Read More] Understanding High ANA Levels: Implications for Fertility and Immune Health
Monitoring Acute Kidney Injury: When to Seek Specialist Care
Observation period for acute kidney injury? Hello Dr. Wu, My mother has been hospitalized for two months due to a bacterial infection. Initially, her kidney function was not very good, but prior to this hospitalization, her kidney function was normal. After more than a month, h...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on your inquiry, you only mentioned a bacterial infection that required hospitalization for two months, without mentioning whether you have any underlying conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipidemia. If you do have these conditions, they should be managed fir...[Read More] Monitoring Acute Kidney Injury: When to Seek Specialist Care
Understanding Biologics for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Key Questions Answered
Biologics Hello, doctor. My son is 18.7 years old and is a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I would like to ask some questions regarding biologic agents: To save the doctor's time, I would like to define the following conditions as "Condition A" (the prescripti...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. There are many inquiries, so I can only provide brief responses as follows: 1) If you apply for public funding to receive biologic therapy and it is approved, after a period of treatment, if the inflammatory markers normalize and there is no...[Read More] Understanding Biologics for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Key Questions Answered
Managing Proteinuria in Diabetic Kidney Disease: When to Start Low-Protein Diet?
Proteinuria and Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) Hello, doctor. I have been diagnosed with diabetes for about ten years and have consistently had microalbuminuria. My eGFR has been around 105 ± 10 for several years. I had a UACR > 300 tested before surgery at National Taiwan Univ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
According to your inquiry regarding the classification of UACR: UACR < 30 mg/g is considered normal range; UACR 30-300 mg/g is classified as microalbuminuria; and UACR > 300 mg/g is classified as macroalbuminuria. Since you only mentioned "UACR results < 300," ...[Read More] Managing Proteinuria in Diabetic Kidney Disease: When to Start Low-Protein Diet?
Understanding Creatinine Levels: Concerns About Kidney Health
Confusion Regarding Blood Test Report for Serum Creatinine Hello Doctor, I am 37 years old, weigh 75 kg, and am 167 cm tall. I have symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and Barrett's esophagus, for which I have been taking proton pump inhibitors (such as Pantoprazole)...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. According to your inquiry, first, it is important to understand the definition of chronic kidney disease (CKD). It can be classified as stage 1 or stage 2 when the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is greater than 60 mL/min/1.73 m² and there are abnormalities in urine or imagin...[Read More] Understanding Creatinine Levels: Concerns About Kidney Health
Evaluating the Efficacy and Risks of Biologics for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Biologics (additional inquiries) The questions below, starting with an asterisk, were previously asked to Dr. Tseng, and I appreciate Dr. Tseng's response on January 25: "It is effective, and I recommend continuing the medication and adjusting the dosage after some time...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, the medical guidelines suggest a sequence of medications for treatment, taking into account their side effects and benefits. The principle is to use anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications as the first line of treatment. The consideration of biologics should be discuss...[Read More] Evaluating the Efficacy and Risks of Biologics for Ankylosing Spondylitis