Managing Symptoms After Thyroid Surgery and Radioactive Iodine Treatment
Symptoms after thyroid surgery and radiation therapy? Hello, Dr. Yang. My mother, who is 56 years old, underwent a total thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine treatment due to malignant thyroid cancer. The doctor has prescribed thyroid hormone medication for her, and she has been ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Thyroid hormone supplementation for one month is expected not to cause any issues related to hypothyroidism. After some time, further monitoring of thyroid function will be necessary. Currently, there are no special dietary restrictions.[Read More] Managing Symptoms After Thyroid Surgery and Radioactive Iodine Treatment
Understanding Chest Discomfort After Testing Positive for Influenza A
Influenza A Hello Doctor: I previously tested positive for COVID-19 at the hospital. I am currently taking antiviral medication. However, I am experiencing significant chest tightness. I do not have a fever, and the hospital doctor mentioned that my symptoms are mild. My chest ti...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello, A-Jie: Most individuals infected with the H1N1 influenza virus experience mild symptoms and typically recover within a week without the need for special treatment, allowing most people to rest at home. However, there are a small number of cases where the condition can rapi...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort After Testing Positive for Influenza A
Managing Worsening Symptoms After Hyperthyroidism Treatment
Symptoms worsened after treatment for hyperthyroidism? Hello: I initially sought medical attention due to left eye protrusion and a pulse/blood pressure of 100/150. After more than a year of medication, my T4 levels decreased from the thirties to around five (Propranolol 10mg, ER...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Although the etiology of exophthalmos is related to hyperthyroidism, controlling hyperthyroidism does not necessarily lead to equivalent control of exophthalmos. If the exophthalmos becomes more pronounced, it may be advisable to consult an ophthalmologist.[Read More] Managing Worsening Symptoms After Hyperthyroidism Treatment
Can Stress Cause Sudden Blood Sugar Spikes? Understanding Diabetes Risks
Stress Doctor, may I ask if stress can cause blood sugar levels to spike suddenly? My usual fasting blood sugar is around 97 to 106, but I started feeling unwell yesterday, and this morning, after fasting for 8 hours, my blood sugar was 131. Two hours after eating, it was 184. Wh...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: Increased stress can lead to heightened activity of the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in increased secretion of catecholamines such as norepinephrine and epinephrine. This can cause elevated blood sugar levels, increased glycogenolysis in the liver and muscles, hei...[Read More] Can Stress Cause Sudden Blood Sugar Spikes? Understanding Diabetes Risks
Understanding Thyroid Storm: Symptoms, Risks, and When to Seek Help
Suspected thyroid storm issues? Hello, I would like to ask you a medical question. A female friend of mine is currently studying abroad, and she recently fainted on the street. Bystanders reported that she initially showed signs of shock, and then she suddenly regained consciousn...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
It's difficult to diagnose based solely on symptom descriptions. The likelihood of a thyroid storm is not very high. If you need to return to your home country for medical care, it may be beneficial to consult with a physician abroad to better assess the suspected condition.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Storm: Symptoms, Risks, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Blood in Urine: Causes and Concerns for Kidney Health
Hematuria Hello Dr. Yang, I have been feeling like I have a slight fever these past few days, and I noticed that I have visible hematuria. It shouldn't be the new flu, right? My kidneys have not been in good condition; I have had hematuria (not visible) since childhood. Abou...
Dr. Yang Weishun Reply:
To confirm whether it is indeed IgA nephropathy, the most reliable method is to perform a kidney biopsy for diagnosis. IgA nephropathy can indeed present with visible hematuria following respiratory infections, but it is also possible to detect microscopic hematuria during asympt...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Urine: Causes and Concerns for Kidney Health
Concerns About Kidney Health: Understanding Atrophy and Function Tests
Concerned about needing dialysis? I underwent an ultrasound examination in 1999, which revealed left kidney atrophy. I have been having regular health check-ups every two years, and my left kidney measures approximately 6 centimeters. I have also had detailed examinations at a ma...
Dr. Yang Zhongwei Reply:
Hello: 1. A person only needs one normal kidney to manage bodily functions, so in your case, even though only the right kidney is functioning normally, your blood test results for kidney function and urinalysis are normal. 2. The presence of foam in the urine without proteinuria ...[Read More] Concerns About Kidney Health: Understanding Atrophy and Function Tests
Managing Essential Hypertension: Medication, Diet, and Lifestyle Tips
Essential hypertension Hello Dr. Yang, My boyfriend recently went to the emergency room due to high blood pressure exceeding 170. He has a hereditary form of essential hypertension. Does this mean he will need to take medication for life? He was diagnosed early on, and his usual...
Dr. Yang Zhongwei Reply:
Hello: 1. The target blood pressure for patients with hypertension is below 140/90 mmHg, while for patients with diabetes or chronic kidney disease, the target blood pressure is more stringent: below 130/80 mmHg. 2. Non-pharmacological management of hypertension includes: (1) ach...[Read More] Managing Essential Hypertension: Medication, Diet, and Lifestyle Tips
Dietary Considerations for Patients on Anticoagulants and Hypertension Medications
Anticoagulant medications and hypertension? My father is taking anticoagulant medication and antihypertensive medication. Although I didn't accompany him, I would like to know what dietary considerations he should be aware of while taking these two types of medications, such...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Taking warfarin will inhibit blood coagulation. If surgery or tooth extraction is necessary, the medication should be discontinued one week prior. In terms of diet, a generally healthy and balanced diet is sufficient.[Read More] Dietary Considerations for Patients on Anticoagulants and Hypertension Medications
Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms Beyond a Swollen Neck
Hyperthyroidism I previously often sought medical attention for gastrointestinal issues, but later my doctor suspected it might be related to endocrine or metabolic problems. Aside from my gastrointestinal issues, I occasionally experience insomnia, anxiety, hand tremors, elevate...
Dr. Lü Jing Reply:
Hello: Some individuals with hyperthyroidism may not have a noticeable goiter. It is recommended to have a blood test to check thyroid function. Additionally, your symptoms may also be related to anxiety, adrenal pheochromocytoma, or excessive caffeine intake; however, the likeli...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms Beyond a Swollen Neck
Long-Term Medication Use: Risks and Kidney Health Protection Tips
The effects of long-term medication use on the body? Hello: I have heard that long-term medication use may lead to dialysis. May I ask: 1. Is it true that long-term medication use can potentially lead to dialysis? 2. Besides dialysis, what other issues can long-term medication us...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Hello: Drug metabolism occurs through the liver and kidneys, which eliminate waste from the body. Why is long-term medication necessary? What types of medications are involved? The degree of impact varies. The misuse of antibiotics, pain relievers, and unverified traditional Chin...[Read More] Long-Term Medication Use: Risks and Kidney Health Protection Tips
Persistent Headache for 3 Days: Causes and Solutions
Headache for 3 days? Dear Doctor, I have been experiencing severe headaches every morning upon waking up, which has persisted for three days (from the moment I open my eyes until I go to bed at night). This issue has started to affect my work. I suspect that my blood pressure ha...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Dear Rickey, Headaches are classified into two main categories: primary headaches and secondary headaches. Primary headaches mainly include 1. migraines, 2. tension-type headaches, and 3. cluster headaches. Secondary headaches include: head trauma, brain infections, cerebrovascu...[Read More] Persistent Headache for 3 Days: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Chronic Neck Stiffness: Causes and Solutions
Frequent neck stiffness? Frequent neck stiffness and habitual head shaking can be caused by several factors, including muscle tension, poor posture, stress, or underlying medical conditions such as cervical spondylosis or myofascial pain syndrome. To address these issues, conside...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Stiffness in the neck may be caused by spinal issues, muscle problems, or even high blood pressure. Please pay attention to whether your blood pressure is elevated, if your pillow is unsuitable, or if you are using the computer excessively. It is recommended to consult with a reh...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Neck Stiffness: Causes and Solutions
Managing Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: Key Considerations
How to manage polycystic kidney disease? Dear Director Wu, My father is 70 years old. Two years ago, he experienced sudden hypertension and dizziness. After blood tests, he was found to have hematuria, with a creatinine level of 1.3 and a GFR (CG) of 56, indicating stage 3 chron...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. The left-sided cyst is compressing the kidney; consider referring to urology for "percutaneous renal cyst aspiration and sclerotherapy." If there is a recurrence, consider "laparoscopic cyst decortication" for management. 2. Consider treating with "Nor...[Read More] Managing Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: Key Considerations
Unexplained Swelling in Legs: Causes and When to Seek Help
Unexplained edema? Hello, doctor: My mother is currently 51 years old and has a history of hypertension. She has been taking medication regularly to control her blood pressure. However, for the past two weeks, she has been experiencing swelling in both legs, and when pressed, the...
Dr. Yang Zhongwei Reply:
Hello! The main causes of bilateral leg edema include the following: 1. Renal origin: This includes nephrotic syndrome and chronic kidney failure. Urinalysis should be performed to check for proteinuria, and blood tests to assess kidney function are necessary. 2. Hepatic origin: ...[Read More] Unexplained Swelling in Legs: Causes and When to Seek Help
Do You Still Need Medication for Diabetes and Hypertension?
Is medication necessary? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask if it is necessary to continue taking medication for diabetes and hypertension when the measured blood glucose and blood pressure values before taking the medication are within normal ranges (fasting blood glucose 88, be...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello Mingming: Because you are on medication, your blood sugar is well controlled. If you abruptly stop the medication, your blood sugar and blood pressure will inevitably rise. You can discuss with your physician to adjust the dosage. Amaryl can increase insulin secretion, whil...[Read More] Do You Still Need Medication for Diabetes and Hypertension?
Managing Mildly Elevated Low Blood Pressure: Links to Obesity and Fatty Liver
Mildly elevated low blood pressure? 1. How to manage slightly elevated low blood pressure? 2. Is it related to obesity and fatty liver?
Dr. Zhong Weisheng Reply:
The low blood pressure you mentioned likely refers to elevated diastolic pressure, which is also a form of hypertension. According to the JNC VII (the seventh report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure), the c...[Read More] Managing Mildly Elevated Low Blood Pressure: Links to Obesity and Fatty Liver
Should You Check Post-Meal Blood Sugar If Fasting Levels Are Normal?
If the fasting blood glucose levels are normal, is it necessary to also measure postprandial blood glucose? Dr. Chen: Hello! I would like to ask you a few questions. 1. During my company's health check-up, my fasting blood glucose was 83 mg/dL, but I heard that fasting blo...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
1. Fasting blood glucose is 83, no diabetes, regular check-ups are sufficient. 2. Cholesterol-lowering medication should only be taken if necessary; it's best to consult your attending physician directly.[Read More] Should You Check Post-Meal Blood Sugar If Fasting Levels Are Normal?
Managing Heart Medications: Concerns About Deanxit and Arrhythmia
Cardiac medication issues? Hello Dr. Tsai, I have congenital heart disease (valvular insufficiency) and recently discovered an issue with arrhythmia during my check-up. The doctor previously prescribed me Fludiazepam and Propranolol, but aside from side effects like drowsiness ...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Generally, prescribing anxiolytics can alleviate palpitations and stress, which may help resolve issues related to arrhythmia. If you experience side effects such as drowsiness or dizziness, the dosage of Deanxit can be reduced to half. If there is no improvement, please consult ...[Read More] Managing Heart Medications: Concerns About Deanxit and Arrhythmia
Understanding Recurring Headaches: Causes and When to Seek Help
Headache Hello Dr. Chen, Around the evening of February 12th, I suddenly experienced dizziness and headaches. I took some acetaminophen on my own, and I felt much better the next day. However, on February 15th or 16th, similar symptoms reappeared, and I took acetaminophen again,...
Dr. Chen Changxun Reply:
To my friend DRAGON: Headaches have become bothersome in your daily life over the past two days. Various diseases can induce headaches, with upper respiratory infections, fever, and diarrhea being frequent causes. However, if the symptoms persist for more than a month, you should...[Read More] Understanding Recurring Headaches: Causes and When to Seek Help