Managing Membranous Nephropathy: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips
Membranous nephropathy Before treatment for membranous nephropathy, proteinuria was between 1-2 grams, and albumin was above 1000. After treatment, proteinuria decreased to below 0.5 grams (minimum 0.17), and albumin fluctuated between 300-500 (minimum 100). With continued treatm...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Hong, Hello. Membranous nephropathy is an important glomerular disease that can lead to end-stage renal disease, especially in cases with severe proteinuria reaching nephrotic syndrome. In a ten-year follow-up, 30-40% of patients with this condition progress to renal failur...[Read More] Managing Membranous Nephropathy: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips
Managing Constipation in Diabetic Patients: Tips and Alternatives
Diabetes and Constipation The doctor would like to ask you, my dad has been experiencing constipation for many days and cannot find a way to relieve it. He has issues with high blood pressure and elevated blood sugar. My dad says that the constipation problem started after taking...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. If your father's constipation issue is indeed caused by the blood sugar-lowering medication, please have him inform the prescribing physician so that the doctor is aware. The physician may change the medication or prescribe a stool softener. 2. Hypertension can be ...[Read More] Managing Constipation in Diabetic Patients: Tips and Alternatives
Does Gallbladder Removal Increase Type 2 Diabetes Risk?
Several questions regarding diabetes? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about the high-risk groups for diabetes. I am a gallstone patient and have had my gallbladder removed. Does the absence of a gallbladder increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes? In my family history, ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Having a family history of type 2 diabetes indeed increases the likelihood of developing the condition. This apparent familial clustering of incidence may be attributed to genetic factors, as well as shared dietary and lifestyle habits shaped by cohabitation. The progression o...[Read More] Does Gallbladder Removal Increase Type 2 Diabetes Risk?
Is Raw Onion Safe for Those with Low Blood Pressure?
Dietary Issues Excuse me, I would like to ask a question. If someone has low blood pressure, is it not suitable for them to eat raw onions since onions can lower blood pressure? Could this potentially cause their blood pressure to drop even further? I am a bit confused, so I woul...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello Petty: Onions are indeed not suitable for individuals with low blood pressure. However, low blood pressure can be classified as primary (of unknown origin) or secondary (caused by other diseases). It is advisable to seek medical evaluation to determine if there are any seco...[Read More] Is Raw Onion Safe for Those with Low Blood Pressure?
Understanding the Connection Between Hypertension and Meniere's Disease
Hypertension disease Hello, I would like to ask if there is a connection between hypertension and Meniere's disease? Recently, my father went to the emergency room with a blood pressure spike of 200, experiencing severe headaches and occasional dizziness, especially in hot w...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello, Xiaoxin: Your father's blood pressure has reached 200 mmHg, along with severe headaches, dizziness, and symptoms of cardiac hypertrophy. This should not be taken lightly; he must seek medical attention regularly, and the physician will arrange for examinations and pre...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Hypertension and Meniere's Disease
Understanding Moon Facies: Possible Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
What diseases can cause an unusually round and swollen face (similar to a full moon face)? I am a 22-year-old male, and recently while organizing old photos, I noticed that my face appears disproportionately swollen compared to my BMI. I am 175 cm tall and weigh 80 kg. I collecte...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Mr. Kobayashi: 1. Regarding kidney diseases, blood tests and urinalysis can be used for screening, and sometimes additional imaging studies such as ultrasound may be performed to assist in diagnosis and treatment. If, as you mentioned, you only have kidney stones (and ele...[Read More] Understanding Moon Facies: Possible Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
Understanding Membranous Glomerulonephritis: Treatment, Prognosis, and Emotional Impact
Glomerulonephritis The biopsy report indicates membranous glomerulonephritis. Prior to the biopsy, the proteinuria was 1.25 grams, which increased to 2 grams after the biopsy. Following one month of steroid treatment, the proteinuria decreased to 1.3 grams. Due to significant sid...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Membranous nephropathy is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults, with the majority of cases being of unknown origin, while a minority are associated with medications or infections (such as hepatitis B). Treatment and prognosis can be categorized into three types: ...[Read More] Understanding Membranous Glomerulonephritis: Treatment, Prognosis, and Emotional Impact
How to Lower Creatinine and Improve GFR: Expert Insights
Kidney function issues? Dr. Wang, how can I lower my creatinine level of 1.1 and improve my glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 82.5? Thank you.
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Mr. Chen: Hello, in general, individuals without proteinuria have a normal serum creatinine level of 0.4-1.2 mg/dL, and a glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >80 ml/min is considered normal. Tips for protecting kidney function: ● Four "no's" and one "none&quo...[Read More] How to Lower Creatinine and Improve GFR: Expert Insights
Understanding Nighttime Blood Pressure Fluctuations in Hypertensive Patients
The mother's blood pressure often rises in the evening? Hello Doctor, my 63-year-old mother has been diagnosed with hypertension for many years and takes antihypertensive medication daily. She is currently on a long-acting combination antihypertensive medication (one tablet ...
Dr. Zhang Guoji Reply:
We apologize! Dr. Chang Kuo-chi has left the practice and is unable to respond to your inquiries.[Read More] Understanding Nighttime Blood Pressure Fluctuations in Hypertensive Patients
Can Hypertension and Diabetes Medications Be Taken Together?
About medications? My father is taking medication for high blood pressure, and he has recently been diagnosed with high blood sugar. I would like to ask the doctor if it is safe to take medications for high blood pressure and high blood sugar together. Should they be taken separa...
Dr. Zhang Guoji Reply:
Although most medications for hypertension and hyperglycemia can be taken together, there are many different types of blood pressure and blood sugar medications. Only the prescribing physician knows exactly what medications your father is taking, so you should consult the origina...[Read More] Can Hypertension and Diabetes Medications Be Taken Together?
Managing Post-Dialysis Nausea and Dizziness: When to Seek Further Help
Frequent vomiting after dialysis? My boyfriend has been on dialysis for over a year now. Recently, he often feels dizzy after dialysis or the next day, and he frequently experiences vomiting. Sometimes he vomits right after eating, and other times he rushes to the bathroom to vom...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Regarding dizziness and frequent vomiting after dialysis or the following day, we can discuss it in two parts: 1. First, consider the quality of dialysis. Is the dialysis adequate? Is there excessive weight gain between sessions? Is there poor blood pressure control? These factor...[Read More] Managing Post-Dialysis Nausea and Dizziness: When to Seek Further Help
Managing Cellulitis: A 11-Day Hospital Journey and Ongoing Challenges
Cellulitis, hospitalized for 11 days, currently still unable to achieve complete control? On October 11, the patient experienced foot pain and sought medical attention at a general orthopedic clinic. The doctor prescribed anti-inflammatory and pain relief medication for three day...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, 1. I have a general understanding of your (or your family member's) condition; it may be necrotizing fasciitis or severe soft tissue inflammation. This is inherently a serious and challenging condition to manage. 2. First, it is important to assess whether...[Read More] Managing Cellulitis: A 11-Day Hospital Journey and Ongoing Challenges
Understanding Proteinuria in Teenagers: Causes and Concerns
Dear Doctor, why do I easily have proteinuria? Hello, I am a 17-year-old male. I have been experiencing proteinuria (+~++) for about a year. During this time, I have visited three major hospitals for diagnosis. I have undergone blood tests to assess kidney function and a 24-hour ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello, I am a nephrologist who relies on "tests (blood and urine tests, X-rays)" and "machines (dialysis machines)" to make a living... This is purely a joke (any resemblance is coincidental), but it does highlight the concerns of nephrologists and patients wi...[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria in Teenagers: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Foamy Urine After Meals: Is It a Kidney Concern?
Foamy urine is more noticeable after meals? Hello, I previously had a record of urine protein ++ during a health check. This year, I visited a nephrologist who examined my urine and stated that there was no protein present, and my blood protein levels were also not lower than nor...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
There are many substances that can cause an increase in bubbles in urine, commonly referred to as foamy urine, among which protein is more closely related to body health. Therefore, physicians only need to determine if you have proteinuria for diagnosis. Normal individuals may oc...[Read More] Understanding Foamy Urine After Meals: Is It a Kidney Concern?
Managing Diabetes in Elderly Patients After Pneumonia: Seeking Guidance
I would like to inquire about diabetes issues in elderly patients after illness? Hello, my grandmother is 85 years old and has a history of diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. She was hospitalized for pneumonia at Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital on March 19. On April 3...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello, your grandmother is advanced in age and has experienced multiple organ failure. It is best to go to a treatment hospital for an evaluation of her condition before proceeding with further management and treatment.[Read More] Managing Diabetes in Elderly Patients After Pneumonia: Seeking Guidance
Understanding Diabetes: Kidney Atrophy and Uremia Symptoms Explained
Diabetes concerns? Hello, Dr. Lee. 1. Why does diabetes cause renal atrophy and uremia? 2. What are the symptoms of uremia?
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: In response to your two questions: 1. Metabolic factors and hemodynamic changes are the primary causes affecting diabetic nephropathy. The effects of hyperglycemia alter the feedback control of the glomeruli and renal tubules, leading to abnormal glucose metabolic path...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Kidney Atrophy and Uremia Symptoms Explained
Understanding Diabetic Neuropathy: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management
Diabetic neuropathy? Dear Li, Question 1: Recently, my grandmother has experienced a loss of sensation in the tips of her fingers, particularly in her index, middle, and ring fingers, which has become more severe. In addition to the numbness in her fingers, she also experiences ...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Diabetic neuropathy commonly presents with numbness, tingling, or a sensation of wearing gloves in the extremities. If a diabetes educator is available at the hospital, a monofilament test can be performed initially. For further evaluation, a referral to a neurologist may be nece...[Read More] Understanding Diabetic Neuropathy: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management
Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Rapid heartbeat? Hello, doctor. My usual blood pressure is 90 over 60, but recently it has dropped a bit to 80 over 55. When I exercise, I feel dizzy, and my face and hands turn pale. I often experience headaches at the top of my head. Recently, one night, my right leg started tw...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello, Xiao Li: Your blood pressure is low, and you are experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, pale complexion, and leg cramps. It is advisable to go to the hospital for a thorough examination and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Understanding Low Morning Urine Output and Swelling: Causes and Concerns
Decreased urine output upon waking? Hello doctor, I would like to ask, if I sleep for a longer duration of 8 to 9 hours, sometimes I wake up with very little urine, and my face is puffy and my hands feel tight. The swelling goes down after about 1 to 2 hours. Could this be relate...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Dear Mary: 1. Based on your description, it is possible that during prolonged sleep, urine formation naturally becomes concentrated (which is why you do not frequently need to use the restroom), leading to a perception of oliguria. This is not indicative of urinary reflux and ty...[Read More] Understanding Low Morning Urine Output and Swelling: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Biochemical Reports: Managing Diabetes and Kidney Health
Family's biochemical report Hello Dr. Wu, I consulted with you in February this year, and today I am attaching more biochemical report data for your explanation. My father is 60 years old today and has been suffering from diabetes and kidney stones for a long time. He was or...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
My father is 60 years old today and has long been troubled by diabetes and kidney stones. He has been seeing a family medicine doctor, but for some reason, his case has been referred to a nephrologist. I have attached the examination reports from February of this year to the pres...[Read More] Understanding Biochemical Reports: Managing Diabetes and Kidney Health