Understanding Morning Fasting Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetes Management
Fasting blood glucose levels upon waking are higher than blood glucose levels before bedtime? Hello Dr. Lin: I was diagnosed with diabetes in early April, at which time my blood sugar was 226, and my HbA1c was 8. Over the past month, I have been actively managing my diet and exer...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Many factors can affect blood glucose levels, such as dietary content, the degree of digestion and absorption, the type of antidiabetic medication, physical condition, and level of physical activity. Generally, physicians will consider all this information to determine whe...[Read More] Understanding Morning Fasting Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetes Management
Understanding Thyroid Disorders: Managing Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
Thyroid issues? The patient has been receiving treatment for hyperthyroidism (without exophthalmos) for many years and is taking medication for both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Recently, he has experienced increased shortness of breath. The original physician believes thi...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Some physicians may allow patients with thyroid autoimmunity to take both antithyroid medications and thyroid hormone replacement therapy simultaneously. This approach varies from person to person. If respiratory symptoms are present but cardiology evaluations show no significant...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Disorders: Managing Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
Efficacy of Ketotifen for Chronic Urticaria and Angioedema Treatment
Ketotifen in the treatment of chronic urticaria and angioedema? The phrase "complete curation in 16 patients" in the context of the article refers to "complete cure" for those 16 patients, indicating that they achieved a full resolution of their chronic urtica...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. The article you are looking for is quite old (from 1984), and the evidence is outdated. Additionally, the original text is in Spanish, with only the abstract available in English, so my understanding is limited to the abstract's explanation...[Read More] Efficacy of Ketotifen for Chronic Urticaria and Angioedema Treatment
Managing Allergic Rhinitis and Cognitive Issues: A Guide
Frequent medical visits? I have a history of allergic rhinitis, and sometimes I feel discomfort in my head, as if my thinking is affected when I use my brain, impacting my ability to process external information. I have undergone a CT scan, carotid ultrasound, and EEG in the neur...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If you have already undergone a series of brain or cerebrovascular imaging examinations, it is recommended that your rhinitis be managed and monitored by an otolaryngologist. In addition to medication, you may ask the otolaryngologist to regular...[Read More] Managing Allergic Rhinitis and Cognitive Issues: A Guide
Managing Fluctuating Creatinine Levels: Causes and Solutions
What should be done if creatinine levels fluctuate and increase over a short period? In January 2020, the urea nitrogen level was 0.88, in July 2020 it was 1.22, in January 2021 it was 1.14, in February 2021 it was 0.98, and in April 2021 it was 1.26. There was foamy urine, but t...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on the data you provided, the calculated e-GFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) values are 95, 66, 70, 84, and 63, which indeed show some variation. Recommendations are as follows: 1. If there is no proteinuria, a low-protein diet is not necessary at this time, but a ...[Read More] Managing Fluctuating Creatinine Levels: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Heart Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Advice
Cardiac issues Hello, doctor. A few days ago, I experienced symptoms of chest tightness. After searching online, I found that palpitations can be felt as a noticeable heartbeat. However, for several years, I have been able to feel my heartbeat almost all the time when I am still ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Hello: The sensation of feeling one's heartbeat is referred to as palpitations. There are many situations that can cause palpitations, commonly including life stress, tobacco and alcohol use, and even changes in temperature. Certain medical conditions are also associated wit...[Read More] Understanding Heart Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Advice
Managing Unstable Blood Pressure: When to Consider Medication
Unstable blood pressure? Hello, doctor. Three months ago, my blood pressure suddenly spiked to 200/105 at midnight, but I didn't feel unwell. I went to the emergency room, and basic tests like an ECG and X-ray were done, which showed no issues. I was prescribed medication, a...
Dr. Su Zhehong Reply:
It is recommended to consult a cardiologist for further evaluation and to check for potential causes of secondary hypertension.[Read More] Managing Unstable Blood Pressure: When to Consider Medication
Managing Recurring Health Issues: Insights for Chronic Conditions
What should I do? I often feel unwell and have been diagnosed with acute tonsillitis twice in the past two weeks. Prior to this, I was diagnosed with acute respiratory infection, sinusitis, bronchitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and so on. In previous inquiries, some sugges...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is indeed most likely that you have an allergic constitution. Many people in Taiwan have this type of constitution, and with the recent severe air pollution, many individuals are experiencing similar symptoms to yours. I recommend that you eng...[Read More] Managing Recurring Health Issues: Insights for Chronic Conditions
Managing Blood Pressure Medications: Safe Combinations and Timing
Blood pressure, drug interactions? Dear Doctor, I would like to ask some questions regarding medication usage. I have already started taking antihypertensive medication (Suhuo 5/40 mg) and I am also taking "Xunli Ning" concurrently. However, I am unsure about the order...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, it is recommended to take chronic disease medications at least 30-60 minutes apart from dietary supplements for optimal results. The order of intake does not significantly affect the outcome, but due to the common issue of patients forgetting to take th...[Read More] Managing Blood Pressure Medications: Safe Combinations and Timing
Understanding Infection Risks After Anal Intercourse: What You Need to Know
Regarding infection risk? Hello doctor, a few days ago I had anal intercourse with a friend. During the act, my glans penetrated their anus without a condom (only the glans entered, nothing else). After that, we did not continue with any sexual activity. I'm a bit worried ab...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, any unsafe sexual behavior carries a risk of infection. It is recommended to undergo relevant screenings at the hospital afterward. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Infection Risks After Anal Intercourse: What You Need to Know
Managing Diabetes in HIV Patients: Expert Advice and Insights
Simultaneous diagnosis of HIV and diabetes? Hello Dr. Chen, due to my infection condition, I have hesitated to seek treatment from specialties outside of infectious diseases. However, my hemoglobin A1c has consistently been above 8.5. I am currently taking three different antidia...
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
Hello: The infectious disease department of the hospital also has internal medicine specialty qualifications. Please inform the infectious disease physician to handle it accordingly.[Read More] Managing Diabetes in HIV Patients: Expert Advice and Insights
Understanding Kidney Injury: Insights on Hematoma, Function, and Recovery
Renal hemorrhagic atrophy? Hello, doctor. I was injured in a car accident at the end of July last year, which affected my left kidney and caused bleeding. The hematoma was approximately 10 cm at that time. I underwent two CT scans in the emergency room (one without contrast and o...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. The current estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is calculated based on serum creatinine levels. When eGFR is above 60, even a slight change in creatinine can lead to differences in eGFR, so regular follow-up is recommended. 2. Hematomas have the potential to decrease ...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Injury: Insights on Hematoma, Function, and Recovery
Managing Thyroid Nodules: When to Pause Medication for Gastrointestinal Issues
Thyroid nodule During a physical examination, a thyroid ultrasound revealed a 1.8 cm nodule on the right side and a 0.4 cm nodule on the left side. A fine needle aspiration biopsy indicated that the nodules are cysts (fluid-filled). The physician has prescribed Eltroxin (levothyr...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
You may consider having a blood test in advance to check for thyroid antibodies. If thyroid antibodies are present, it is advisable to discontinue medication. As for whether the use of thyroid hormone can inhibit the enlargement of thyroid cysts/nodules, this remains uncertain.[Read More] Managing Thyroid Nodules: When to Pause Medication for Gastrointestinal Issues
Why Is My Cold Lasting Over 20 Days? Understanding Prolonged Symptoms
Cold not yet healed? I have had a cold for over 20 days and have seen two or three doctors who all diagnosed it as a cold. I have been taking my medication as prescribed, but I am still not better. An X-ray of my lungs showed no issues. I have a mild cough and a sore throat, and ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that your concern may be a persistent cough. Some individuals do experience bronchitis as a complication after a cold, which can lead to a prolonged cough. Additionally, the recent poor air quality can further trigger coughing. I recomme...[Read More] Why Is My Cold Lasting Over 20 Days? Understanding Prolonged Symptoms
Managing Dust Mite Allergies: Do You Need Ongoing Treatment?
Identify allergens? Regarding dust mites, do I need to continuously see an allergist and regularly obtain medication? Is it considered a chronic condition, and should I get a chronic disease prescription?
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. If your allergen is dust mites, you can decide whether to take medication based on your symptoms. My recommendations are: 1. If the environment can be modified, such as regularly washing and sunning your bedding, it can help alleviate symptoms ...[Read More] Managing Dust Mite Allergies: Do You Need Ongoing Treatment?
Normal Thyroid Levels but Still Experiencing Hair Loss: Possible Causes and Solutions
Thyroid indices are normal, yet hair loss persists? Hello, doctor. Last year, I experienced sudden and abnormal hair loss and was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. I have been managing the symptoms with medication, and my lab results have been normal during follow-up visits. Howeve...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
There are many factors that contribute to hair loss. Depending on your situation, you may want to consider thyroid medications and conditions unrelated to the thyroid. Certain thyroid medications may potentially lead to hair loss. As for conditions outside of the thyroid, there a...[Read More] Normal Thyroid Levels but Still Experiencing Hair Loss: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Testicular Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Abdominal issues? On December 8, I visited a clinic in Tainan due to left testicular pain. The doctor prescribed medication, but after three days of taking it, there was no improvement. On December 12, during a follow-up visit, I asked the doctor if it could be a varicocele. The ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, your abdominal symptoms seem to be more indicative of gastrointestinal motility disorders. It is recommended that you visit a gastroenterology specialist for further evaluation. Additionally, regarding your inquiry about whether surgery for varic...[Read More] Understanding Testicular Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Managing Hair Loss During Hyperthyroidism Treatment: Causes and Solutions
Hyperthyroidism issues? I have hyperthyroidism and have been on medication for about six months. My blood test results are currently normal. I take 2 tablets of Inderal and half a tablet of Carbizo daily, but my hair continues to fall out. I would like to ask the doctor if these ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Typically, hair loss will improve after the thyroid antibodies return to normal. If hair loss persists, please consult a dermatologist.[Read More] Managing Hair Loss During Hyperthyroidism Treatment: Causes and Solutions
Managing Frequent Doctor Visits: Understanding Your Health Concerns
Feeling troubled? I often visit the doctor, sometimes feeling very fatigued. I have mild thalassemia and a waist circumference of 97 cm, with abdominal obesity. My lifestyle is generally normal, but I have issues with nasal allergies. Recently, I visited an immunology specialist ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that your body is prone to minor issues in various organs, mostly related to allergies. The most effective recommendations are regular exercise and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Avoid staying up late and try to reduce stress; ...[Read More] Managing Frequent Doctor Visits: Understanding Your Health Concerns
Managing Chronic Health Issues: Insights for Frequent Medical Visits
Health issues I visit the doctor approximately 50 times a year. Aside from my monthly visits to a psychiatrist, the main reasons for my frequent medical consultations are gastroenteritis and upper respiratory infections, including allergic rhinitis. Recently, I underwent allergy ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that your body may be experiencing minor issues with various organs, mostly related to allergies. I recommend that the most effective approach is to engage in regular exercise, followed by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Avoid s...[Read More] Managing Chronic Health Issues: Insights for Frequent Medical Visits