Understanding Hypothyroidism: Should You Take Medication or Seek Further Testing?
Hypothyroidism issues? Hello Doctor, I am currently undergoing infertility treatment, so I need to check if there are any issues with my thyroid. Hospital A tested and found that I have hypothyroidism, with a TSH level of 7.026 (the standard range is 0.35-5.5). They prescribed EL...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Xiao Gua: 1. Personally, I am unsure how to answer your question. 2. I can only tell you that, according to general medical principles, hypothyroidism is characterized by decreased levels of T3 (triiodothyronine), decreased levels of T4 (thyroxine), and increased lev...[Read More] Understanding Hypothyroidism: Should You Take Medication or Seek Further Testing?
Understanding Elevated IGF-1 Levels: Concerns and Follow-Up Recommendations
Questions related to IGF-1 levels? Hello Doctor: I previously visited the endocrinology department due to weight loss and fatigue. The doctor ordered a blood test, and only one result, IGF-1, was above the standard range (exact value unknown). The doctor is concerned about a pote...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Chelle: 1. In medical terms, the hypothalamus in the brain secretes releasing hormones that stimulate the pituitary gland to secrete growth hormone. Growth hormone not only acts directly on target organs but also stimulates the liver and other tissues to secrete insuli...[Read More] Understanding Elevated IGF-1 Levels: Concerns and Follow-Up Recommendations
Understanding Sacroiliitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management Options
Sacroiliitis Hello Dr. Tseng, I have been experiencing symptoms for about three to four years now. I have loved playing basketball since elementary school, and I still do. I had grade II vesicoureteral reflux around the fourth grade, so I thought my lower back pain was due to spo...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
There are many reasons for back pain. A CT scan shows sacroiliitis and elevated inflammatory markers, so it is recommended to consult a rheumatologist for differential diagnosis. The physician should provide further recommendations. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Sacroiliitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management Options
Seeking Medical Help for Unexplained Weight Gain at 40
Abnormal weight gain Hello: I am 40 years old, 170 cm tall, and currently eat one meal a day while walking 10,000 steps. My lifestyle is regular. I have gained 12 kg in the past six months, and my endocrine blood tests have shown no issues. How should I seek medical assistance?
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Aqi: 1. Factors contributing to weight gain include diet, patterns of physical activity, and differences in energy metabolism; very few cases are due to single-gene mutations or specific genetic disorders. 2. Familial obesity may be influenced not only by genetic facto...[Read More] Seeking Medical Help for Unexplained Weight Gain at 40
Understanding Abnormal Urine and Blood Test Results: A Guide for Patients
Blood test issues Hello, Dr. Gao. During a urine test at an external laboratory, my kidney function test showed an abnormal urine protein-to-creatinine ratio of 30-300 (normal value is <30). In a blood test, one of the serum immunology tests, ANA (antinuclear antibody), showed...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. An ANA test result of 1:80 (+) is within the normal range. You only need to have the test results evaluated by a physician. The physician will determine whether further action is necessary based on any related symptoms you may have. The Allergy,...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urine and Blood Test Results: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Unexplained Body Sensations: Which Specialist to Consult?
Health issues. Which department should I consult? Hello Dr. Hong, I would like to consult about some unusual symptoms I'm experiencing and which specialty I should see to determine what illness I might have. My symptoms include experiencing internal pulsations after a night...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, there are two possible causes for the palpitations. First, there may be a temporary episode of tachycardia. Since you mentioned that you have previously undergone an exercise electrocardiogram that showed tachycardia, I recommend a 24-hour Holter...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Body Sensations: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis and Uric Acid Levels in Blood Tests
Rheumatoid arthritis and uric acid? Hello! I would like to ask if the rheumatoid factor test report includes uric acid levels. I checked my report yesterday, and there was no rheumatoid factor, but the inflammatory markers were elevated. I am concerned that even without rheumatoi...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The rheumatoid factor and uric acid levels are two different tests. Therefore, if your physician did not include these two tests in the examination items, you may not receive results for either the rheumatoid factor or uric acid levels. It would...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis and Uric Acid Levels in Blood Tests
Preventing Chickenpox and Shingles in Uncertain Seniors: A Guide
A 70-year-old individual who is uncertain about having had chickenpox should consider the following steps to prevent chickenpox and shingles: 1. **Consult a Healthcare Provider**: Schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional to discuss vaccination options and assess th...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, I. <Regarding uncertainty about having had chickenpox and steps to prevent chickenpox and shingles> A: If you are unsure whether you have had chickenpox, you can visit a medical facility that offers antibody testing for chickenpox and shingles. Most people ma...[Read More] Preventing Chickenpox and Shingles in Uncertain Seniors: A Guide
Understanding HbA1c Testing: Impact of Blood Donation and Accuracy Concerns
Glycated Hemoglobin Test (HbA1c Test) Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing intermittent itching around the skin near my ankles. I found online that this could be a symptom of peripheral neuropathy related to diabetes. Two years ago, my company's health check repo...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Xiao Lu: 1. The diagnosis of diabetes has consensus standards in medicine: According to the diagnostic criteria from the American Diabetes Association, a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥126 mg/dL after at least 8 hours of fasting, b. 2-hour plasma glucose level ≥200 mg/d...[Read More] Understanding HbA1c Testing: Impact of Blood Donation and Accuracy Concerns
Do You Really Need Medication for Sjögren's Syndrome?
Do patients with Sjögren's syndrome always need to take medication? I have been experiencing dry eyes for 15 years, long-term hair loss for the past 10 years, and have developed vitiligo in the last 6 years, with my hair turning white quickly. I have thyroiditis that only re...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome can vary in severity, which will determine whether the physician prescribes medication. In addition to your subjective experience of symptoms, regular blood test results should also be evaluated. Some pat...[Read More] Do You Really Need Medication for Sjögren's Syndrome?
Understanding Easy Bruising: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Easy bruising? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've noticed that my legs bruise easily, with several bruises appearing. I had a cold a while ago, and since then, my body temperature has been slightly elevated, around 37.3°C. There was one instance when my temperature suddenly rose ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe that based solely on the examination data, there doesn't appear to be any major issues. It may be necessary for a physician to evaluate the patient in person to arrange for more precise testing. I recommend consulting with a hemat...[Read More] Understanding Easy Bruising: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Causes and Concerns
Elevated creatinine levels? Hello, doctor. This year, during my health check-up, my kidney function test showed a creatinine level of 1.5 and a uric acid level of 4.31. Last year, my creatinine level was 1.4 and my uric acid level was 5.3. My BMI has been 22 for both years. I hav...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Hello, regarding your elevated creatinine levels, it is recommended that you see a nephrologist for further examination and follow-up. Since your uric acid levels are normal, the cause of the renal dysfunction may require additional urine tests and blood tests to determine whethe...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Do I Need Diabetes Medication?
Blood sugar issues Hello, Director Hsiao. A week ago, I had a fasting blood test at the hospital to check my blood sugar levels. Today, the outpatient physician informed me that my fasting blood sugar of 70 is a precursor to diabetes and that I need to take medication. This has l...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Gao Xing, 1. The treatment of diabetes primarily involves dietary control, regular exercise, and medication. Unless dietary control and regular exercise can completely manage the progression of diabetes, continuing medication is necessary. Do not discontinue medication ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Do I Need Diabetes Medication?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a problem where I vomit after eating, regardless of whether I am full or not. This has become more severe over the past two years, to the point where I often cannot control it; there have been instances where I s...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. K: 1. Discomfort in the upper abdomen leading to symptoms such as nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and bloating may commonly be associated with conditions including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastritis, peptic ulcers, duodenal ulcers, cholecystitis, pancreat...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
When to Stop Medication for Hyperthyroidism: A Patient's Concern
The issue of when to discontinue medication for hyperthyroidism? Hello, doctor. This April, I experienced a noticeable increase in heart rate along with other uncomfortable symptoms. At the beginning of May, I visited a family medicine clinic where blood tests diagnosed me with h...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to visit the endocrinology department for further examination. If it is subacute thyroiditis, there will be no need for medication once recovery is achieved. Thank you for your message![Read More] When to Stop Medication for Hyperthyroidism: A Patient's Concern
Post-Meal Blood Sugar Lower Than Pre-Meal: A Case Study
Postprandial blood glucose is lower than preprandial blood glucose? Dr. Hsiao, about a month ago (on August 12), I had a blood test that revealed a fasting blood glucose level of 214 mg/dL. At that time, my weight was 87.5 kg and my height was 166 cm. Following the physician'...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Shan: 1. You have diligently changed your diet, increased your exercise, and lost weight, while frequently monitoring your blood glucose levels. As a result, you have lost 7.5 kilograms, and your blood sugar has shown significant improvement. The recommendations from yo...[Read More] Post-Meal Blood Sugar Lower Than Pre-Meal: A Case Study
Understanding Blood in Stool: When to See a Doctor and What Tests to Expect
Rectal bleeding If you often notice blood at the bottom of the toilet after having a bowel movement, with no blood elsewhere, and the blood appears to be mixed with stool but is not very noticeable, and the blood is not bright red while the stool is brown, which type of specialis...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Ryook: 1. Generally speaking, if the blood in the stool appears bright red, it may indicate lower gastrointestinal bleeding; if the color is dark black and shiny like tar, it should be considered as upper gastrointestinal bleeding. 2. Stool that is brown in color can...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: When to See a Doctor and What Tests to Expect
Can Eltroxin Medication Cause Hyperthyroidism After Thyroid Surgery?
After taking ELTROXIN, blood tests indicated that the patient has hyperthyroidism? Hello doctor, I had thyroid nodule surgery 10 years ago, and since then, I have undergone annual ultrasound examinations to monitor for any new nodules. In June of this year, an ultrasound revealed...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Ms. Chang, thank you for your question. I am a rheumatologist, so I can only provide a general response. For a more precise explanation and treatment, please consult an endocrinologist. Eltroxin is a synthetic thyroid hormone, so taking this medication can indeed result in ...[Read More] Can Eltroxin Medication Cause Hyperthyroidism After Thyroid Surgery?
Does Drinking Sugary Beverage Before Fasting Blood Test Affect Results?
Drank a sip of sugary beverage before blood draw? Fasting for 8 hours before a blood draw is typically required for accurate results, especially for tests related to blood glucose levels. Drinking a small amount of sugary beverage at 7 AM before a 9 AM blood draw may affect the r...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Lee: 1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dL after fasting for at least 8 hours. b. Plasma glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dL during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test. c. HbA1c ...[Read More] Does Drinking Sugary Beverage Before Fasting Blood Test Affect Results?
Understanding Acute HIV Infection: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Acute HIV infection phase? Hello Doctor, I started feeling unwell around August 29, experiencing fever and fatigue. On August 30, I had blood tests showing a CRP of 7.490 (all other biochemical parameters were normal), WBC of 12,870, Neutrophils 70.8%, Lymphocytes 19.9%, and Mono...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: According to the Centers for Disease Control website (http://www.cdc.gov.tw), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual ...[Read More] Understanding Acute HIV Infection: Symptoms and Diagnosis