Managing Hypothyroidism: When to Seek Medical Attention and Dietary Guidelines
Hypothyroidism I have hypothyroidism and secretly stopped taking my medication for a year. A few days ago, I visited an endocrinologist, and my thyroid levels were within the normal range. The doctor said that since I am not taking medication, I should at least return for a follo...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, bradycardia, weight gain, cold and swollen extremities, rough and dry skin, brittle nails, numbness in fingers, absence of sweating, hoarseness, snoring, hair loss, anemia, heavy menstrual bleeding, and loss of libido, among o...[Read More] Managing Hypothyroidism: When to Seek Medical Attention and Dietary Guidelines
Post-Cold Symptoms: Managing Stomach Pain and Dizziness
After recovering from a cold, I developed stomach pain and dizziness? Hello, doctor. Last week I had a severe cold combined with bronchitis. The cold symptoms have improved, but over the past few days, I've started experiencing stomach pain and dizziness. It's been 10 d...
Dr. Lin Shunfa Reply:
TO: Yikun, please consult a gastroenterologist to determine if there are any gastrointestinal diseases or related issues with medications.[Read More] Post-Cold Symptoms: Managing Stomach Pain and Dizziness
Could These Symptoms Indicate Type 1 Diabetes at 24?
Is it Type 1 Diabetes? Hello Doctor: I am currently 24 years old, 156 cm tall, and six months ago my fasting blood glucose was measured at 79 mg/dL, with a blood pressure of 94/57 mmHg. My weight has historically ranged between 40 to 44 kg, and I experience polyphagia, polyuria (...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin, the diagnosis of diabetes requires not only the classic symptoms of polyphagia, polydipsia, and polyuria but also the evaluation of fasting blood glucose or hemoglobin A1c levels. Your fasting blood glucose is only 79 mg/dL, which should not indicate diabetes. Addi...[Read More] Could These Symptoms Indicate Type 1 Diabetes at 24?
Understanding Sudden Hypoglycemia: Causes and Concerns for Patients
Why does sudden hypoglycemia feel very uncomfortable? Hello, doctor. Today at 8:30 AM, I had breakfast consisting of sweet potatoes and whole grain bread, along with green tea. At 12:30 PM, I started experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia: cold sweats, trembling, weakness, rapid h...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Hello: Based on the information you provided, it is not possible to determine whether your symptoms are caused by hypoglycemia. In addition to low blood sugar, there are many other conditions that can present with similar symptoms. Typically, undiagnosed and untreated diabetes pr...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Hypoglycemia: Causes and Concerns for Patients
Does Cold Weather Affect Fasting and Postprandial Blood Sugar Levels?
Blood Sugar and Temperature Hello, doctor. Does the fasting blood sugar and postprandial blood sugar of a normal person increase slightly due to colder weather? (Assuming all other factors remain unchanged, purely due to temperature changes.) Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Yes, it is commonly observed in clinical practice that patients have higher blood glucose levels in winter compared to summer, and the fluctuations in blood pressure are even more pronounced.[Read More] Does Cold Weather Affect Fasting and Postprandial Blood Sugar Levels?
Chest Pain Between Breasts: Coughing or Something More Serious?
Sharp pain between the breasts? Hello Doctor: Recently, I visited a small clinic due to a cold and have been experiencing severe coughing with phlegm (chunky). Additionally, after dinner today, I felt a sharp pain between my chest (at the end of the bone in the middle). Is this d...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Based on your symptoms, it is recommended that you visit a hospital to see a pulmonologist, and you may need a chest X-ray examination.[Read More] Chest Pain Between Breasts: Coughing or Something More Serious?
Understanding Discrepancies Between Ear and Axillary Temperatures
Ear temperature indicates fever, while axillary temperature is normal? Hello, Dr. Tseng. I have issues with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and asthma. A couple of months ago, I might have contracted a cold, which led to an acute asthma attack, productive cough, and a high fever of 39 ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, users: A temperature difference of 0.8-1 degree Celsius between ear temperature and axillary temperature could indicate issues related to autoimmune disorders or infections that may cause fever. Please seek medical attention for diagnosis and treatment. Thank you for your ...[Read More] Understanding Discrepancies Between Ear and Axillary Temperatures
Managing Hyperthyroidism: Pregnancy Risks and Treatment Options Explained
Hyperthyroidism issues? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my condition. I have had hyperthyroidism for over a decade, and although my levels were very high in the past, they have been stable and normal for the past two years. My most recent lab results show T3 at 153.35, T4...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Your question involves issues related to endocrinology and obstetrics; it is advisable to discuss this with your attending physician. 1. There are many causes of hyperthyroidism, with Graves' disease being the most common, likely due to an autoimmune response. Once well-co...[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism: Pregnancy Risks and Treatment Options Explained
Understanding Upper Back Pain After a Cold: Causes and Solutions
I have a severe pain in the upper left back due to a cold? I caught a cold yesterday, and when I woke up from my nap at noon, I noticed that my upper back hurts a lot. What could be the cause? When I turn my head to the right and look up, it doesn't hurt, but when I turn my ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Since you mentioned that deep breathing also causes pain, to rule out any issues with the lungs and pleura, I recommend that you consult a pulmonologist for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Upper Back Pain After a Cold: Causes and Solutions
Understanding the Side Effects of Rabies Vaccines in Humans
What are the side effects of rabies vaccine in humans? Hello, doctor. I apologize for following up on my previous question. I went to the hospital to receive the first dose of the rabies vaccine after being bitten by a stray cat on my ankle. However, my family believes it is unne...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the situation of receiving the first dose of rabies vaccine after being bitten by a wild cat on the ankle, while family members believe it is unnecessary and oppose vaccination because it is not an endemic area (Changhua Township), and that I am just s...[Read More] Understanding the Side Effects of Rabies Vaccines in Humans
Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Alternatives to Painkillers
Ankylosing spondylitis About five years ago, I was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, but I did not experience significant pain at that time, and my inflammatory markers were normal. I was only prescribed pain relievers. However, in the past two years, whenever I catch a cold...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis often fluctuate, so it is essential to have regular follow-up examinations to manage the condition. In addition to pain relievers, there are other medications and methods available for pain management, so it is advisable to seek medical e...[Read More] Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Alternatives to Painkillers
Understanding Yellowing of Hands and Fingers: When to See a Doctor
Regarding yellowing of the palms, with a single finger turning particularly yellow and experiencing numbness when exposed to cold? Hello Doctor, I am concerned about my mother's health condition, but I am unsure which medical specialty is appropriate for her symptoms. I apol...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. If there are no liver or gallbladder issues and you frequently consume foods rich in carotenoids, such as papaya and carrots, then carotenoids may be the reason for the yellowing of your hands. 2. Cold weather can cause finger numbness, which may be related to blood cir...[Read More] Understanding Yellowing of Hands and Fingers: When to See a Doctor
Does a Cold Affect Blood Sugar Levels? Understanding the Impact of Medications
Cold and Blood Sugar Levels Dear Doctor, 1. Does a cold cause an increase in blood sugar levels? (131) 2. Can cold medications cause an increase in blood sugar levels? Ingredients: Panadol, Amoxicillin, Incidal, Medecoush, Muslo. Thank you!
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Blood glucose levels fluctuate and are not fixed. It is recommended that you check your blood glucose levels after your cold symptoms have resolved.[Read More] Does a Cold Affect Blood Sugar Levels? Understanding the Impact of Medications
Understanding Autoimmune Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Polyarthritis 1. I have an ASLO index of 247 (or 274?). Is this caused by genetics or an infection? My family has a history of almost all hereditary diseases, including lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, kidney stones, kidney disease, stroke,...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Ms. Yang, I hope this message finds you well. Your questions are somewhat complex, and since I haven't actually seen you, many of my thoughts are merely speculation. It is best for you to discuss these matters with a physician who has examined you in person. Here are m...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Severe Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers for Ongoing Discomfort
Severe abdominal pain? Hello, I would like to ask about my mother's abdominal pain that has lasted for over a month. She has visited multiple hospitals and undergone various tests, including X-rays, gynecological exams, CT scans, blood tests, gastroscopy, colonoscopy, and ev...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
In general, abdominal pain lasting more than several weeks or months (3-6 months) is referred to as chronic abdominal pain or recurrent abdominal pain. There are many potential causes, with common conditions including: 1. Gastrointestinal diseases: peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal...[Read More] Severe Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers for Ongoing Discomfort
Understanding Long-Term Low Blood Pressure: Key Considerations
If blood pressure is consistently low, what should one pay attention to? In the past, my blood pressure readings (for example, when measured at a cold clinic) have been on the lower side. My most recent health check report showed a systolic pressure of 86, diastolic pressure of 5...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello, Cocoa: Some young women may have lower blood pressure. If the readings are consistently similar and there are no symptoms, there is generally no need for concern. However, here are a few reminders: 1. Measure your blood pressure daily to determine the typical range. 2. Che...[Read More] Understanding Long-Term Low Blood Pressure: Key Considerations
Assessing HIV Infection Risks After Sexual Encounter: What You Need to Know
Risk of HIV Infection On July 4th of this year, I had sexual relations with a sex worker in Thailand. The encounter involved unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse. During oral sex, she briefly held my glans, seemingly after I released pre-ejaculate fluid, and the...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the relationship between unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse with subsequent symptoms of low-grade fever and headache: A: 1. For unprotected oral sex, it is important to check if the partner has any oral diseases or bleeding. ...[Read More] Assessing HIV Infection Risks After Sexual Encounter: What You Need to Know
Understanding the Risks of Discontinuing Antithyroid Medication
Medication discontinuation issues? Hello Doctor: I would like to inquire about the side effects of long-term discontinuation of Anastrozole. Since I have had a total thyroidectomy, what are the potential consequences of stopping Anastrozole without medical supervision? Thank you!
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Huang, 1. After a total thyroidectomy, the body can no longer produce thyroid hormones necessary for maintaining normal metabolic functions, which can lead to hypothyroidism. This condition affects various systems, including cardiovascular, hematologic, digestive, integ...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Discontinuing Antithyroid Medication
Should You Consult an Immunologist for Chronic Allergies and Symptoms?
Allergy medications Hello, doctor. I have a history of severe nasal allergies, but now my symptoms have shifted to being sensitive to cold and easily catching colds (such as being uncomfortable with direct air conditioning). I have poor temperature regulation and am prone to heat...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, the medications for nasal congestion and runny nose/sneezing can differ, and commonly used medications, such as antihistamines, are categorized into traditional and newer generations. Therefore, it may be beneficial to consult an allergist or immunologist for tailored medi...[Read More] Should You Consult an Immunologist for Chronic Allergies and Symptoms?
Is Not Catching a Cold for Two Years a Cause for Concern?
Cold issues Hello, doctor. I haven't had a cold for a year and I haven't had a fever for over two years. Is this good or bad?
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
That's great! It's best not to get sick![Read More] Is Not Catching a Cold for Two Years a Cause for Concern?