Understanding Autoimmune Conditions: Dry Eye Syndrome and Vascular Concerns
Autoimmune disease Sjögren's syndrome Hello Doctor: My mother is 72 years old and has hepatitis C, Sjögren's syndrome, and severe dry eye syndrome, all of which are being treated. As she has aged, her blood pressure has been elevated, and she is currently taking antihyp...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Ms. Lee, thank you for your inquiry. Here are the answers to your questions: 1. Both Sjögren's syndrome and hepatitis C can potentially cause microvascular bleeding as a side effect if not continuously treated, which may appear as small petechiae. To determine if thi...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Conditions: Dry Eye Syndrome and Vascular Concerns
Can Prediabetes Be Reversed with High Blood Pressure? Expert Insights
Prediabetes and Hypertension Hello, doctor. I have high blood pressure and have recently been diagnosed with elevated blood sugar levels. Is there a chance for prediabetes to be reversed? Additionally, due to my high blood pressure, am I able to engage in weight training?
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
1. If blood sugar levels are elevated, it is important to determine how high they are. Diabetes is a chronic condition that, once diagnosed, can only be managed but not cured. 2. It is unclear how well your blood pressure is being controlled, and I do not know your blood pressu...[Read More] Can Prediabetes Be Reversed with High Blood Pressure? Expert Insights
Should You Seek Further Evaluation for Persistent High Blood Pressure?
Is it necessary to go to a major hospital for further examination? Hello Doctor: My father (approximately 57 years old) is currently undergoing hypertension monitoring at a clinic and is taking antihypertensive medication. However, his daily blood pressure readings at home are st...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to measure your blood pressure regularly 3-4 times a day. Before each measurement, make sure to rest for at least 15 minutes to obtain more accurate readings. If you are measuring your blood pressure only once a day or even less, and it exceeds 140 mmHg, ...[Read More] Should You Seek Further Evaluation for Persistent High Blood Pressure?
Understanding Adrenal Tumors: When to Seek Treatment
Adrenal gland A year ago, an adrenal tumor measuring 3 centimeters was unexpectedly discovered during an examination. I switched to a urologist who conducted blood tests and 24-hour and 12-hour urine tests. The lab results indicated elevated cortisol levels. The doctor mentioned ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, generally speaking, there is concern about pheochromocytoma, which can secrete norepinephrine and cause high blood pressure. If your blood pressure is normal, the likelihood of this condition is indeed low. As for cortisol levels, they can fluctuate due to daily activities...[Read More] Understanding Adrenal Tumors: When to Seek Treatment
Assessing Kidney Function: Is Your Plasma Renin Activity Elevated?
Is the plasma renin activity elevated in renal function? Hello, doctor. I recently had a health check-up, and my lab results show a serum creatinine level of 1.3 mg/dL, a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 62.3 mL/min, a urine albumin test result of 30 mg/L, a urine specific gra...
Dr. Ke Taiyuan Reply:
Your kidney function index, creatinine level of 1.3, is approximately at the upper limit of the normal range (which may vary slightly between different medical institutions). A glomerular filtration rate (GFR) less than 60 sustained for more than three months indicates chronic ki...[Read More] Assessing Kidney Function: Is Your Plasma Renin Activity Elevated?
Managing My Father's Health Crisis: Seeking Medical Advice for Hypertension
Dad is experiencing health issues? About five years ago, my father fainted while playing mahjong after having a little bit of alcohol. We immediately called an ambulance, and when he was given an oxygen mask, his consciousness stabilized. The small hospital we went to later told ...
Dr. Chen Shunfu Reply:
Individuals with hypertension and obesity are at high risk for cardiovascular diseases. It is recommended that you bring your father to the hospital's cardiology department for a thorough examination.[Read More] Managing My Father's Health Crisis: Seeking Medical Advice for Hypertension
Managing High Blood Pressure: Tips for Relief and Better Health
Hypertension issues Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask a question that has been bothering me. Whenever my blood pressure spikes to 130-140, I experience headaches at night. As soon as I close my eyes, it feels like I'm on a roller coaster. For the past two years, my head CT,...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Based on your symptoms, I would recommend that you regularly measure your blood pressure at home in the morning and evening. Additionally, it is advisable to record your response to the antihypertensive medication and inform your physician during your follow-up visit, as t...[Read More] Managing High Blood Pressure: Tips for Relief and Better Health
Understanding IgA Nephropathy: Key Questions and Concerns for Patients
Regarding IgA nephropathy? Hello Doctor, I recently went to see a physician due to proteinuria and hematuria. After several examinations, the doctor suspects I have IgA nephropathy. Since the test results are not yet available, I would like to ask a few questions in case I am dia...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Below are the responses to your questions. 1. IgA nephropathy can be well controlled with medication, but regular follow-up appointments are still necessary. Appropriate treatment can indeed reduce the risk of renal function deterioration leading to dialysis. 2. It is re...[Read More] Understanding IgA Nephropathy: Key Questions and Concerns for Patients
Managing Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide for Overweight Individuals
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) Hello, doctor. I am obese and have sleep apnea and high blood pressure. Currently, I am taking half of a 5 mg blood pressure medication, which has been controlling my condition for a while. My morning and evening blood pressure readings are quite stabl...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
As your physician mentioned: diet and exercise management. Additionally, it is advisable to consult a nutritionist or a diabetes educator for more information on this matter. Thank you for your message.[Read More] Managing Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide for Overweight Individuals
Understanding Kidney Issues: Blood Sugar, Proteinuria, and Hypertension Concerns
Kidney problems Doctor, I have a blood sugar level of 113, urine protein, creatinine level of 1.35, and a glomerular filtration rate of 56.7. Is this considered serious, and is there a possibility of recovery? Additionally, I have high blood pressure of 198/86. What should I be a...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Based on the information you provided, your kidney function is classified as stage 3 chronic kidney disease, and your blood pressure is significantly elevated. Additionally, it is unclear whether you have other chronic health issues. It is recommended that you visit a neph...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: Blood Sugar, Proteinuria, and Hypertension Concerns
Understanding Blood Pressure Variations: Morning vs. Evening Readings
Significant differences in blood pressure between morning and evening? Due to diarrhea, I lost 6 kilograms (currently 163 cm, 61 kg). I suddenly stopped taking Concor (while on the medication, my blood pressure was 132/85). After discontinuing, my morning blood pressure readings ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: If you experience a weight loss of 6 kilograms in a short period due to diarrhea, along with lower blood pressure than usual, and your blood pressure remains stable even after stopping antihypertensive medication, there may be concerns about inadequate fluid volume. It is ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Variations: Morning vs. Evening Readings
Can Diabetic Patients Safely Run and Participate in Races?
Can diabetic patients run and participate in road races? Hello Dr. Lin, I am very grateful for your response to my previous question (#136924 regarding diabetes medication). I would like to ask if it is suitable for diabetes patients to run and participate in road races as part o...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Exercise can enhance the body's sensitivity to insulin, not only preventing blood sugar levels from rising but also promoting the entry of glucose into cells, thereby lowering blood sugar concentrations and strengthening the body's regulation of blood glucose. Th...[Read More] Can Diabetic Patients Safely Run and Participate in Races?
Impact of Blood Pressure Medications on Creatinine Levels: A Case Study
Creatinine and antihypertensive medications? Hello Doctor, last year during my health check-up, my creatinine level was 1.3, total cholesterol was 200, and my systolic blood pressure was between 140 and 150. I have been monitoring these results for a year, and they have remained ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, certain types of antihypertensive medications can indeed cause an increase in serum creatinine levels. However, the Norvasc you previously took at a normal dosage does not impair kidney function, so the rise in serum creatinine should be attributed to o...[Read More] Impact of Blood Pressure Medications on Creatinine Levels: A Case Study
Understanding Trace Protein in Urine: Should You Worry?
Both urine protein tests showed +/-? Hello Dr. Lin, I underwent a health check on April 18, and the report indicated trace hematuria and trace proteinuria, with increased lung markings; all other results were normal. Today, I conducted another test, and the abnormal or borderline...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: This urine test report does indicate the presence of trace proteinuria. Generally, if proteinuria is initially detected, it is recommended to conduct two to three follow-up tests, preferably using the first urine sample collected in the morning. Additionally, women should ...[Read More] Understanding Trace Protein in Urine: Should You Worry?
Understanding Kidney Health: Long-Term Effects of Medications and Monitoring
Kidney problems Hello, I would like to ask about my health history. When I was young, I had poor health and took a lot of medications, including both Western and traditional Chinese medicines, as well as some unknown herbal powders intermittently until I was around 18 years old. ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on your inquiry, it seems you are concerned about the potential kidney damage caused by aristolochic acid. If you took unknown herbal powders during childhood but had a normal kidney function test during your last routine blood check as an adult, there is likely no cause fo...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Health: Long-Term Effects of Medications and Monitoring
Fast Heart Rate with Low Blood Pressure: Should You Be Concerned?
Low blood pressure but rapid heartbeat? Hello, I have undergone several examinations and have found that my heart rate is quite fast, around 110 beats per minute. If I walk up stairs or briskly walk (to the point of mild shortness of breath), my heart rate can spike to about 160 ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, everyone's blood pressure and heart rate can vary, and the so-called normal values are for reference. It is recommended that you measure your blood pressure and heart rate 2-3 times a day, preferably after resting for 20 minutes. If all readings are normal and you hav...[Read More] Fast Heart Rate with Low Blood Pressure: Should You Be Concerned?
Common Questions from Families of New Dialysis Patients
Questions from family members of novice kidney patients? Dear Dr. Wu, I hope this message finds you well. My elderly family member has recently entered the dialysis stage due to chronic kidney failure, and as a novice caregiver, I have some questions I would like to ask you. 1....
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Determine an appropriate target dry weight: approximately 1-2 weeks, unless the patient has a history of pulmonary edema or generalized edema, in which case additional time may be needed. 2. If the dry weight has been achieved but blood pressure remains elevated, antihypertens...[Read More] Common Questions from Families of New Dialysis Patients
Home Blood Pressure Monitoring for Dialysis Patients: Key Considerations
Home Blood Pressure Monitoring for Dialysis Patients Hello, Dr. Ke. My grandfather is a dialysis patient with uremia and needs long-term dialysis. He lacks patience and does not have a regular habit of measuring and recording his blood pressure at home. Recently, we have consider...
Dr. Ke Taiyuan Reply:
Dialysis patients may experience significant fluctuations in blood pressure due to reduced urine output and dehydration during the dialysis process. It is generally recommended to purchase a blood pressure monitor and measure blood pressure regularly each day. During dialysis, nu...[Read More] Home Blood Pressure Monitoring for Dialysis Patients: Key Considerations
Understanding Aldosterone Testing for Hypertension: Is Hospitalization Necessary?
Hypertension and aldosterone issues? Hello Doctor: I have been dealing with high blood pressure and have visited both nephrology and endocrinology departments. Blood tests conducted at both places, approximately a month apart, showed normal aldosterone levels, around 4. The endoc...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Anonymous: 1. The nephrologists or endocrinologists you encounter are very competent; please cooperate as soon as possible. 2. Hypertension is generally classified into primary hypertension and secondary hypertension. The former primarily occurs in middle-aged and eld...[Read More] Understanding Aldosterone Testing for Hypertension: Is Hospitalization Necessary?
Managing Blood Pressure and Edema in a 76-Year-Old Patient
Blood pressure, edema, uric acid? Hello Dr. Wu: My mother is 76 years old and has been taking Adalat 30 mg for many years. Recently, she has experienced edema in her lower extremities. We switched her to one Zanidip (Lercanidipine) 10 mg at bedtime and one Fluitran (Furosemide) 2...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Hsiao-Fen: 1. Your mother is taking Adalat® (30mg; generic name Nifedipine), which is a calcium channel blocker. Long-term use can lead to sodium and fluid retention, resulting in edema. It is recommended to switch to Zanidip® (10mg; generic name Lercanidipine) and Flu...[Read More] Managing Blood Pressure and Edema in a 76-Year-Old Patient