Understanding the Right Specialists for Bacteremia and Spinal Abscess
For bacteremia and spinal abscess, you should consult an infectious disease specialist and a neurosurgeon? Hello, my father is 60 years old. He was previously hospitalized due to poorly controlled diabetes and was found to have Salmonella in his bloodstream, for which he received...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, Regarding chromium niacin at levels up to 600μg, the side effects of excessive intake are as follows: 1. Skin flushing and itching. 2. Elevated serum uric acid levels. 3. Impaired glucose tolerance. 4. Liver damage. Regarding the presence of Salmonella in the ...[Read More] Understanding the Right Specialists for Bacteremia and Spinal Abscess
Is a Blood Sugar Level of 114 mg/dL a Sign of Early Diabetes?
Blood sugar issues? Hello doctor, I started fasting at 8:00 PM and had blood and urine tests at 10:00 AM the next day. The report showed a blood glucose level of 114 mg/dL. Does this mean I am in the early stages of diabetes? Thank you!
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Based on the values from your report, you can be classified as having "prediabetes" (not early-stage diabetes). If you could also test for "glycated hemoglobin" (also known as HbA1c) and postprandial blood glucose levels two hours after eating, it would...[Read More] Is a Blood Sugar Level of 114 mg/dL a Sign of Early Diabetes?
Could My Symptoms Indicate Diabetes? Understanding Blood Sugar Levels and Weight Loss
Could this indicate the possibility of diabetes? Hello, Doctor. In mid-May of this year, I had a blood test that showed a hemoglobin A1c of 5.0 and a fasting blood glucose level of 86. From the end of May until today, my height and weight changed from 160 cm/55 kg to 160 cm/52 kg...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. NN: 1. Zoloft® (Sertraline) is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) because it specifically inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, exhibiting a selectivity for serotonin transporters that is 300 to 3000 times greater compared to norepinephrine tran...[Read More] Could My Symptoms Indicate Diabetes? Understanding Blood Sugar Levels and Weight Loss
Understanding Creatinine Levels and Kidney Function Concerns
Creatinine and Kidney Function Related Issues Hello, Doctor. I apologize for the lengthy description of my issue. Here are the results from my blood and urine tests conducted at the clinic two weeks ago: Fasting blood glucose: 100 mg/dL (reference range: 70-100) Blood urea ni...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on your description, your creatinine level is 1.34 mg/dL (reference range 0.7-1.5), and your glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is 66.9 (reference value > 60). Given your age, your GFR is slightly low, and the most common risk factors affecting kidney function are hyperten...[Read More] Understanding Creatinine Levels and Kidney Function Concerns
Understanding Proteinuria and Elevated Blood Sugar: A Guide for Patients
Urinary protein and blood glucose? A few days ago, my father went to the clinic for a blood test, and the results are as follows: Urine protein 1+, fasting blood glucose 125 mg/dL (after fasting for just over 7 hours), total cholesterol 127 mg/dL, triglycerides 229 mg/dL, HDL 39....
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, In response to your father's concerns, here are my replies: First, regarding the protein in urine, the clinic report indicates a preliminary positive result. It is recommended to visit a larger hospital for a quantitative urine protein test, and possibly a 24-hour ...[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria and Elevated Blood Sugar: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis: Key Blood Test Criteria Explained
Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus Hello, Dr. Hsiao. I would like to ask about a recent blood test where the fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels were 140 mg/dL and 7.3%, respectively. I saw Dr. Hsiao's response regarding the diabetes diagnostic criteria published by the Ameri...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Kiwi: 1. In clinical medicine, diagnostic standards or treatment guidelines often serve as references when research is uncertain or controversial. In practice, clinicians must make diagnoses or interventions based on the patient's own complaints, symptoms, or chan...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis: Key Blood Test Criteria Explained
Is Abnormal Blood Sugar with Normal HbA1c a Sign of Diabetes?
Abnormal blood glucose levels with consistently normal glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) may not necessarily indicate diabetes. It is important to consider other factors and conduct further testing to determine the underlying cause of the abnormal blood glucose levels? Hello Doctor, fo...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Huang: 1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. A fasting plasma glucose level of ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for more than 8 hours; b. A 2-hour plasma glucose level of ≥200 mg/dL during an oral glucose tolerance tes...[Read More] Is Abnormal Blood Sugar with Normal HbA1c a Sign of Diabetes?
Is Your Blood Sugar Test Accurate? Understanding Post-Meal Readings
Same-day follow-up appointment? Hello, doctor. Continuing from my previous question, that night I felt anxious and restless. After having dinner, about two hours later, I went to one of the clinics to self-pay for a blood glucose test. The nurse cleaned my finger with alcohol and...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Cheng: 1. Blood consists of approximately 55% blood cells and 45% plasma. During circulation, some plasma can seep into the interstitial spaces, mixing with the secretions of tissue cells to form interstitial fluid. Therefore, the concern you have regarding the dilution...[Read More] Is Your Blood Sugar Test Accurate? Understanding Post-Meal Readings
Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Variations: What You Need to Know
Fasting blood glucose Hello doctor, I have a habit of regularly checking my blood sugar. This morning, I went to the clinic and had my blood sugar tested, and the result was 124. About three months ago, at the same clinic, it was in the 90s. Then, about 10 minutes later, I went t...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Cheng, 1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. A fasting plasma glucose level of ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for at least 8 hours, b. A 2-hour plasma glucose level of ≥200 mg/dL during an oral glucose tolerance test...[Read More] Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Variations: What You Need to Know
Am I Diabetic? Understanding Symptoms and Blood Sugar Levels
Do I have diabetes? I have been experiencing frequent dry mouth and thirst lately, constantly drinking water and urinating, yet I still feel thirsty. I have had similar episodes before, and one morning my fasting blood sugar was as high as 124. I'm not sure if it was related...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Allen: 1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. A fasting plasma glucose level of ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for at least 8 hours. b. A 2-hour plasma glucose level of ≥200 mg/dL during an oral glucose tolera...[Read More] Am I Diabetic? Understanding Symptoms and Blood Sugar Levels
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Am I at Risk for Prediabetes?
I'm sorry Hello, doctor. Since both of my parents are diabetic, I pay special attention to my own blood sugar levels. I avoid sweets and sugary drinks, and my diet is relatively light. I also maintain a habit of exercising for over an hour each day. Recently, my fasting bloo...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Based on the values you provided, your blood glucose level is still within the normal range and does not indicate prediabetes. Please continue to maintain dietary control, exercise habits, and blood glucose monitoring. Wishing you health and safety![Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Am I at Risk for Prediabetes?
Effective Strategies for Managing Diabetes: Encouraging Medication and Blood Sugar Monitoring
Diabetic patients are reluctant to take their medication on time and monitor their blood glucose levels? My mother has been diagnosed with hyperglycemia for many years, with fasting blood sugar levels around 140. Recently, her levels have spiked to over 200. As a result, she has ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Based on what you described, your mother's blood sugar levels, which were previously stable, have suddenly become uncontrolled. This situation should not be considered solely within the framework of diabetes; there may be other underlying conditions, such as a urinary...[Read More] Effective Strategies for Managing Diabetes: Encouraging Medication and Blood Sugar Monitoring
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Anxiety's Impact on Health
Blood sugar issues? Hello Doctor: I have anxiety issues, and according to my psychiatrist, I have what is known as panic disorder, which often causes chest pain, hyperventilation, and difficulty breathing. Yesterday, I experienced sudden, unbearable chest pain and felt like I cou...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding your anxiety issue, based on your description, it seems to be "hyperventilation syndrome," which refers to excessive breathing that leads to the removal of carbon dioxide, causing numbness in the hands and feet. You can try breathing into a paper bag to...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Anxiety's Impact on Health
Could Your Thirst and Weight Loss Indicate Diabetes?
What is the likelihood of developing diabetes? Hello Doctor: I have been drinking a lot of beverages in the past few months because I still feel thirsty even after drinking water. I researched ways to quench my thirst and unexpectedly came across the symptoms of diabetes, which s...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Su: 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 more than 8 hours, b. Plasma glucose level ≥200 mg/dl during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test, c. HbA1c ≥...[Read More] Could Your Thirst and Weight Loss Indicate Diabetes?
Am I Diabetic? Understanding Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels
Could you please tell me if I have diabetes? Hello, last year my tests were normal, but this year I received my health check results showing abnormal blood sugar and lipid levels. Am I diabetic? After fasting for over 12 hours, my weight is 49 kg and my height is 155.7 cm. My cho...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Vivi: 1. Your fasting blood glucose level is 102 mg/dL, your body mass index (BMI) is 20.4 kg/m², and you do not exhibit any obvious symptoms of diabetes. 2. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. A fasting ...[Read More] Am I Diabetic? Understanding Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels
Understanding Blood Sugar Fluctuations: Symptoms and Testing Insights
Blood sugar inquiry? Hello, Doctor: A few days ago, during lunch, I drank a soda and suddenly felt unwell, experiencing neck pain and fatigue. After about half an hour, I still felt uncomfortable, so I consumed an oral rehydration solution (8.44 grams of sucrose and 2.8 grams of ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Ming: 1. According to your information, I agree with your attending physician; in other words, there is no evidence indicating the presence of diabetes. 2. Any blood glucose meter can produce inaccuracies; therefore, it is necessary to have the manufacturer perform cali...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Fluctuations: Symptoms and Testing Insights
Does Skipping Lunch Increase My Risk of Diabetes?
Dietary issues Hello Doctor, since diabetes runs in my family—my uncle and my dad both have diabetes—I believe my chances of developing it are not low. Sometimes, due to my busy schedule, I might skip lunch for 1 or 2 days a week, but I always have a normal breakfast. Does this l...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Zhang: 1. The risk factors for type 2 diabetes include obesity, having a first-degree relative with diabetes, physical inactivity, high-risk ethnic groups (such as African Americans, Asian Americans, Native Americans, and Pacific Islanders), a history of gestational dia...[Read More] Does Skipping Lunch Increase My Risk of Diabetes?
Managing Diabetes and Cholesterol: Key Questions and Insights
Regarding diabetes and cholesterol issues? Hello Dr. Hsiao, Six months ago during my health check-up, my fasting blood glucose was 123 mg/dL and my hemoglobin A1c was 8.3%. The doctor advised me to take medication for control and to focus on weight loss. After four months of ef...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Justin: 1. If weight loss is achieved gradually, and normal weight is maintained with good dietary control and regular exercise, it is possible to discontinue medication. However, this is contingent upon lifestyle changes and maintenance. Rapid weight loss can lead to r...[Read More] Managing Diabetes and Cholesterol: Key Questions and Insights
Understanding Hemoglobin A1c: Can Weight Loss Reverse Type 2 Diabetes?
Glycated hemoglobin Doctor, I would like to ask you about my situation. In September, my hemoglobin A1c was 6.1, and in January of this year, it was 6.5. Am I diabetic? When I went to the hospital to review my report, the doctor advised me to lose weight. Is this to manage my dia...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Anonymous: 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 more than 8 hours, b. Plasma glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dl during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test, c....[Read More] Understanding Hemoglobin A1c: Can Weight Loss Reverse Type 2 Diabetes?
Persistent Swelling in One Leg: What Specialist to Consult?
Swelling won't go down?! Hello Doctor: My father has diabetes and has recently experienced swelling in his foot, which extends beyond the sole to the ankle, but it is only affecting one foot. He has seen a metabolic specialist who found no issues. Which department should he ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Emily: 1. There are many causes of lower extremity edema. Generally speaking, if the edema is bilateral, one should consider heart failure, nephrotic syndrome, hypoalbuminemia, cirrhosis, medication side effects, pregnancy, hypothyroidism, and other potential causes. I...[Read More] Persistent Swelling in One Leg: What Specialist to Consult?