Understanding Doctor's Decisions on Medication Adjustments for Lipid Levels
I would like to understand issues related to medication prescribed by doctors? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my condition. I have been taking lipid-lowering medication for some time, and my last blood test results were as follows: the dosage is 10 mg taken every two day...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: The decision regarding medication treatment is made by the physician based on a comprehensive assessment of the patient's condition and health insurance regulations.[Read More] Understanding Doctor's Decisions on Medication Adjustments for Lipid Levels
Understanding Cholesterol: Debunking Myths for Diabetics
Cholesterol issues Hello Dr. Hsiao: I have diabetes, and my total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides are all elevated. Both my doctor and diabetes health literature suggest that I should not consume too many high-cholesterol foods. However, I came across an article o...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Essentially, there are many articles online with a diverse theoretical foundation; although they have their sources and basis, I prefer not to comment on them personally. 2. According to current research reports, the sources of cholesterol indeed include dietary intake and e...[Read More] Understanding Cholesterol: Debunking Myths for Diabetics
Impact of Diet and Liver Function on Cholesterol Levels: Key Insights
High cholesterol and liver enzymes? Hello, Doctor. I apologize for the interruption, but I would like to ask a question. I had an all-you-can-eat barbecue a few days before my health check, where I consumed seafood and organ meats. Additionally, I had a lot of seafood about ten d...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, it is possible that you have fatty liver disease. I recommend visiting a gastroenterologist for differential diagnosis of liver function abnormalities. Thanks.[Read More] Impact of Diet and Liver Function on Cholesterol Levels: Key Insights
Managing Hunger and Diabetes: Understanding Blood Sugar Control and Weight Loss
Annoying hunger pangs Hello Doctor, in November 2014, during my health check-up, the doctor diagnosed me with diabetes (fasting blood sugar of 136 after 8 hours, HbA1c of 6.9). The doctor did not prescribe any medication but advised me to buy a blood glucose monitor for self-moni...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. Your blood sugar is under control, but this does not mean that diabetes has been cured. 2. Regarding hunger, it is initially recommended to consume foods that are filling yet low in calories. For detailed advice, it is suggested that you consult a nutritionist at a hosp...[Read More] Managing Hunger and Diabetes: Understanding Blood Sugar Control and Weight Loss
Understanding Diabetes Risk: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
What is the likelihood of developing diabetes? Hello Doctor, Happy New Year! I would like to ask about my fasting blood test results after 12 hours: Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) 78.5, Hemoglobin 24.6, High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) 10.58, Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Your fasting blood test report shows an average red blood cell volume of 78.5, hemoglobin of 24.6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein of 10.58, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) of 7.7, GOT (AST) of 86, GPT (ALT) of 172, alkaline phosphatase of 110, total iron binding capacity of 5...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Risk: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
Understanding Low Glomerular Filtration Rate: What You Need to Know
Low glomerular filtration rate (GFR) Hello doctor, I am currently 26 years old and below are my data (the abnormal ones related to kidney function tests). Last year, my blood pressure was 137/80, cholesterol was 208 (standard upper limit is 200), white blood cells were 4.7 (norma...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on the data you provided, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) has decreased from 94.58 to 80.89, which raises concerns about changes in kidney function. Currently, the GFR we use is derived from studies conducted by international scholars, and there are also researchers in...[Read More] Understanding Low Glomerular Filtration Rate: What You Need to Know
Managing Blood Sugar Levels: Essential Checks and Monitoring for Pre-Diabetes
Regarding blood glucose levels? Hello Doctor, I am 24 years old and 173 cm tall. My weight has dropped from 60 kg to 55 kg in three months, and there is a family history of diabetes (my father and grandmother are both diagnosed patients). Last week, I had my blood sugar tested, w...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. Follow-up every 1.3 to 6 months; if there are any abnormal symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. If time permits, check HbA1c before and after meals, ideally twice. 2. It is not necessary to check every time; the physician will determine the need based on the pa...[Read More] Managing Blood Sugar Levels: Essential Checks and Monitoring for Pre-Diabetes
Is 2000cc of Daily Water Intake Safe for a Single Kidney?
Unilateral kidney issues? Hello doctor, I was born with only one kidney, which functions normally. I would like to ask, for someone with only one kidney, is drinking 2000cc of water per day a burden on the kidney? Thank you.
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
If you only have one kidney, it has to bear the workload of two kidneys, so it's important to take good care of it. This includes staying well-hydrated (such as drinking at least 1500cc to 2000cc of water per day), monitoring and controlling the three highs (hypertension, hi...[Read More] Is 2000cc of Daily Water Intake Safe for a Single Kidney?
Understanding Hormone Therapy and Cholesterol Testing Costs in Taiwan
Development and Cholesterol Doctor, I feel that my development is not very good, and I don't have obvious secondary sexual characteristics. I want to pursue hormone therapy; will health insurance cover the costs? I'm worried it might be expensive. When I go for a consul...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Regarding your inquiry, whether it concerns hormones or cholesterol, it is recommended to consult with a urologist or an endocrinologist for fasting tests, which should be covered by health insurance. Thank you for your question, and the Nephrology Department at Changhua Hospital...[Read More] Understanding Hormone Therapy and Cholesterol Testing Costs in Taiwan
How to Effectively Manage Blood Sugar Levels: Tips and Insights
How to control blood sugar levels? Hello Dr. Hsiao, On July 9, 2015, I had a blood test that showed a blood sugar level of 124. Additionally, my triglycerides and LDL cholesterol were elevated. At that time, my weight was 91 kg, and I currently weigh 84 kg. I measure my fasting ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. On July 9, 2015, your fasting blood glucose level was found to be 124 mg/dL; your lipid levels and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol were elevated. At that time, your weight was 91 kg, and it is now 84 kg. Currently, your average fasting blood glucose levels after 8 ho...[Read More] How to Effectively Manage Blood Sugar Levels: Tips and Insights
Should You Seek Medical Attention for Chronic Low Cholesterol?
Long-term low cholesterol levels? Is it necessary to seek medical attention for long-term low cholesterol levels? Since middle school through college, my cholesterol has continuously decreased with age, and my total cholesterol is now only 88. I have poor physical strength, easil...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, internet user: A certain level of cholesterol must be present in the body to maintain normal structure and function. Individuals with trauma, surgery, cancer, or infections, as well as those with liver, gallbladder, or gastrointestinal diseases, may have a reduced ability ...[Read More] Should You Seek Medical Attention for Chronic Low Cholesterol?
Understanding Hormone Testing and Health Insurance Coverage in Taiwan
Issues with Health Insurance Coverage for Testing This year, I will turn 20 years old, and my voice has not changed. I am unsure if this is due to a hormone deficiency, and I feel that I am not manly enough. Can I get a hormone test? Is it done through a blood draw? Will the cost...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello, regarding your issue, I suggest you visit a major hospital for an examination, which can generally be covered by health insurance. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Hormone Testing and Health Insurance Coverage in Taiwan
Managing Diabetes: Key Questions on Blood Sugar and Diet
Revisiting Diabetes Mellitus? Hello Dr. Hsiao, First of all, thank you for your response last time. Yesterday, I visited the cardiology department to review my blood test results. My fasting blood glucose was 96 mg/dL and my HbA1c was 5.5% (three months ago, my fasting blood glu...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Question 1: Should I still strictly control my intake of starches and sugars? Answer: Strictly controlling the intake of starches and sugars can indeed lower blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels, thereby improving conditions such as diabetes or glucose intolerance. In f...[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Key Questions on Blood Sugar and Diet
Understanding Thyroid Function in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke
Thyroid-related issues? Hello, Director Hsiao. My mother is 64 years old and experienced a mild stroke in early March 2014. She is currently showing stable and improving recovery. Due to her atrial fibrillation, her attending physician prescribed Dronedarone for treatment, and sh...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Amiodarone is a commonly used medication for the treatment of arrhythmias, and it is quite effective. However, it can affect iodine metabolism, leading to either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism; therefore, regular monitoring of thyroid function is necessary. If such conditio...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Function in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke
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?
Understanding High Cholesterol: Good vs. Bad Levels Explained
High cholesterol Hello, doctor. Since my university health check, my cholesterol levels have consistently been high (>200 mg/dL). However, I rarely eat seafood or organ meats, my diet is mostly light, and I enjoy eating vegetables and fruits. I also maintain regular exercise, ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: Regarding your questions, here are the responses: (1) Persistent hypercholesterolemia should be monitored to determine if there are other underlying causes, such as hypothyroidism. (2) Both hospitals and clinics can perform tests for high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or low-d...[Read More] Understanding High Cholesterol: Good vs. Bad Levels Explained
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 Abnormal Kidney Function: What You Need to Know
Is there any abnormality in kidney function? Hello, Doctor. Last July, I had a urinalysis that showed hematuria and proteinuria, both positive. In August, I went to another hospital for another urine test, and again, there were reactions for hematuria and proteinuria. After blood...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. First, let's discuss the risk factors for kidney disease: the three highs (hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia) and proteinuria. Based on the data you provided: Blood Pressure??? Blood Glucose (GLU AC) 89 mg/dL: OK; Lipid Profile Cholesterol 224 mg/dL: borderl...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Kidney Function: What You Need to Know
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