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
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 Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide for Patients
Postprandial blood glucose is lower than preprandial blood glucose? Dear Doctor, three months ago my fasting blood glucose was 128 mg/dL. Three months later, my fasting blood glucose is 131 mg/dL, my postprandial blood glucose is 111 mg/dL, and my hemoglobin A1c is 7.0%. Shouldn&...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Generally, postprandial blood glucose levels are higher than preprandial levels; however, this can vary based on dietary content and individual factors such as insulin sensitivity and the secretion levels of insulin and glucagon. A hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level below 7% is accepta...[Read More] Understanding Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide for 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 Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Next Steps and Dietary Tips
Fasting blood glucose levels are elevated during health check-up? Hello Dr. Lee, I had a health check-up last month and my fasting blood sugar was 101, as the standard value is 100. What further tests should I undergo? Also, what dietary precautions should I take since my grandfa...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: A single pre-meal blood glucose level can be influenced by many factors, such as the duration of fasting, among others. Since you only had one pre-meal blood glucose reading of 101, there is no need to be overly concerned at this time. I recommend that you focus on dietary...[Read More] Managing Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Next Steps and Dietary Tips
Can Type 1 Diabetics Safely Use Oral Contraceptives?
Can individuals with type 1 diabetes take oral contraceptives? I am a type 1 diabetes patient, and since I am going on a trip soon and am concerned about my menstrual period, I visited a gynecologist to obtain medication to delay my period. The doctor prescribed me Priliane, whic...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello, regarding medications for menstrual regulation that may contain hormones, they can affect blood sugar levels and are generally not recommended. However, it is still advised that you consult with a physician for a personal evaluation and judgment. Thank you for your inquiry...[Read More] Can Type 1 Diabetics Safely Use Oral Contraceptives?
Understanding Black Blisters on Heels: Diabetes and Vascular Issues
There is a black lump in the blister on the heel? My father has undergone coronary angioplasty and has poorly controlled diabetes, with pre-meal blood sugar levels ranging from 250 to 350. Currently, he is taking insulin injections in the morning and evening. Two days ago, he dev...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello, diabetes patients are prone to vascular sclerosis and obstruction, and taking anticoagulants can easily lead to subcutaneous bruising. It is best to return to the original hospital for a consultation, where a physician can conduct a detailed examination to determine if a r...[Read More] Understanding Black Blisters on Heels: Diabetes and Vascular Issues
Understanding Diabetes: Concerns About Medication and Testing
Re-examination for Diabetes Mellitus Hello Dr. Chang, I would like to ask about diabetes. Two months ago, my father had a blood test at a general clinic, and the doctor informed him that he has diabetes (the blood test report indicated a fasting blood glucose level of 200). He im...
Dr. Zhang Guoji Reply:
1. Patients with diabetes who abruptly stop their medication are at risk of hyperglycemic complications, which can severely lead to hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state. Therefore, do not discontinue or adjust medications without medical advice. 2. HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) testing...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Concerns About Medication and Testing
Comparing Kidney Risks: Oral Diabetes Medications vs. Insulin Injections
Drug side effects Hello, Dr. Chen. Which is more harmful to the kidneys, taking oral hypoglycemic agents or administering insulin?
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
Both of these diabetes medications do not harm the kidneys. Although some oral hypoglycemic agents require dosage adjustments for patients with impaired renal function, the reason for kidney damage is likely due to poor blood sugar control rather than the method of glucose-loweri...[Read More] Comparing Kidney Risks: Oral Diabetes Medications vs. Insulin Injections
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
Managing Diabetes Complications: Infections, Insulin Reactions, and Alcohol Risks
Diabetic complications Hello Dr. Liao, 1. I have diabetes and am undergoing treatment, but I still frequently experience fungal infections. What should I do? 2. I develop allergic reactions with redness and rashes after insulin injections. What should I do? What are the side e...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. For questions related to diabetes, you can visit the metabolic clinic to consult with a physician and a diabetes educator for clarification. 2. Fungal infections may occur in individuals who are obese, female, or have chronic diseases. It is important to manage b...[Read More] Managing Diabetes Complications: Infections, Insulin Reactions, and Alcohol Risks
Understanding Impaired Glucose Tolerance: Symptoms and Management
Impaired glucose tolerance Doctor, I seem to have impaired glucose tolerance. My fasting blood sugar is around 80, which is normal, but my postprandial blood sugar sometimes reaches 130, 140, 150, and even up to 166 after two hours. Could this be a sign of impaired glucose tolera...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
The standard procedure is the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), where a solution containing 75 grams of glucose is consumed. If the blood glucose level is between 140 and 199 mg/dL two hours after drinking, it is classified as impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Regardless of whe...[Read More] Understanding Impaired Glucose Tolerance: Symptoms and Management
Managing Wound Healing Challenges in Diabetic Patients After Surgery
Foot injuries in diabetic patients? Hello Doctor, my mother is 55 years old and has diabetes and hypertension. After an accident in early September, she underwent surgery for injuries to her right knee and calf, which resulted in three wounds. She was discharged after six days, b...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello Xiaowen: Your mother's condition is quite complex. She has issues with diabetes, a wound infection, and nutritional problems, among others. It would be best to discuss with the attending physician before deciding whether a transfer to another hospital is necessary.[Read More] Managing Wound Healing Challenges in Diabetic Patients After Surgery
Understanding Lipitor's Effects on Blood Sugar and Hypertension Management
excuse me? 1. Does taking Lipitor cause an increase in blood sugar levels and glycated hemoglobin? 2. I am a patient with hypertension and my levels have been normal; should I proactively discuss the possibility of changing medications with my doctor? 3. Is this related to menopa...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello SPP: Lipitor is a lipid-lowering medication. The main side effects include muscle pain and liver function abnormalities. If you have any issues while taking the medication, you can consult your physician to discuss whether to switch medications or discontinue use.[Read More] Understanding Lipitor's Effects on Blood Sugar and Hypertension Management
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
Understanding the Causes of Diabetes-Related Deaths: Insights from Dr. Liao
Diabetes mellitus Hello Dr. Liao, could you please explain the causes of death related to diabetes?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello Mr. Tang: If diabetes is not well controlled, it can lead to the following complications: (1) cardiovascular disease (2) eye disorders (3) kidney disease (4) neuropathy. These are the potential impacts of poor blood sugar control. The primary goal of diabetes management is ...[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Diabetes-Related Deaths: Insights from Dr. Liao
Does Not Fasting Affect the Accuracy of Health Checkup Results?
Does undergoing a health check-up without fasting affect the interpretation of test results? Thank you? Hello Director Li, I would like to ask you some questions regarding the health check report. Our company is organizing a health check tour, but the hospital has scheduled the h...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Hello: Some laboratory test results can indeed be influenced by diet. Below, I will list the tests and examinations that are recommended to be fasting for at least eight hours due to dietary effects, for your reference: urine glucose (GLU), pH, total cholesterol (CHOL), triglycer...[Read More] Does Not Fasting Affect the Accuracy of Health Checkup Results?
Understanding Blood Sugar Monitoring: Accuracy and Common Concerns
About diabetes? First of all, I would like to thank Dr. Lee for the previous response. I do have hyperlipidemia and hypertension, which I am currently managing with medication. My average blood pressure is (systolic) 110-120 and (diastolic) 65-75. In my last inquiry, my fasting b...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: The blood glucose levels obtained from a standard blood draw are typically about 15% higher than those measured by a glucose meter, which may raise some questions for you. Since you are at high risk for diabetes, it is recommended that you continue to manage your diet and ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Monitoring: Accuracy and Common Concerns
Understanding STDs and Diabetes: Key Insights on HIV and Type 1 vs Type 2
Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Diabetes Mellitus Hello Dr. Liao, 1. Can oral sex transmit HIV? 2. I am certain that I have diabetes; how can I determine if it is Type 1 or Type 2?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello readers: 1. The risk of HIV transmission through oral sex depends on the health status of both partners. If the oral sex provider is HIV-positive and has other sexually transmitted infections or open sores, and the recipient does not take any precautions, such as using a co...[Read More] Understanding STDs and Diabetes: Key Insights on HIV and Type 1 vs Type 2
Understanding Uremia: Kidney Dialysis, Symptoms, and Life Expectancy
Uremia Hello Doctor: My friend is 56 years old and was diagnosed with uremia due to diabetes at the end of last year. He has been experiencing continuous vomiting and has now started dialysis. Will the vomiting symptoms decrease after starting dialysis? How long can he expect to ...
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
1. If vomiting is caused by uremic symptoms, it should improve after dialysis; if it is not caused by uremia, vomiting will likely persist. 2. Dialysis is not a terminal condition; the duration of life is more closely related to the control of diabetes and its vascular complicati...[Read More] Understanding Uremia: Kidney Dialysis, Symptoms, and Life Expectancy