Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis Standards and Insurance Implications
Diabetes Diagnosis Criteria Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my situation. Recently, when I applied for insurance, I was denied coverage because I truthfully disclosed that I had a HbA1c level as high as 9.0. However, since then, I have maintained my HbA1c between 6.0 and...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
In general, diabetes is diagnosed with a fasting blood glucose level of 126 mg/dL or higher, a hemoglobin A1c level of 6.5% or higher, or a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test result of 200 mg/dL or higher. Early-stage diabetes can achieve good blood glucose control through dietar...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis Standards and Insurance Implications
Understanding Weight Loss and Appetite Issues in Diabetic Patients
Diabetes-related issues? The doctor would like to ask, my dad has diabetes and is on medication for control. Recently, he has been losing weight and says he has no appetite; he can't eat the food on the table. Is this related to the medication or could it be a sign of anothe...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Some oral medications for diabetes may cause side effects such as abdominal bloating and may also lead to slight weight loss. If the weight loss is significant, it is important to consider whether high blood sugar levels are causing dehydration; however, other conditions may also...[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss and Appetite Issues in Diabetic Patients
Understanding Diabetes Risk: Home Testing vs. Professional Evaluation
Concerns about diabetes? I have a family history of diabetes; my father and grandmother have it, while my mother's side only has my grandmother. When I was a freshman in college, I had a health check-up, and my fasting blood glucose level was 105 mg/dL, with no glucose in my...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Fasting blood glucose levels between 100 and 126 mg/dL indicate impaired fasting glucose, while levels above 126 mg/dL are diagnostic for diabetes. Blood test results are generally more accurate. Capillary blood glucose readings can also be referenced. Individuals with impaired f...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Risk: Home Testing vs. Professional Evaluation
Effective Treatments for Numb Toes in Elderly Patients with Diabetes
Toe numbness The patient is 83 years old and has been experiencing numbness in the toes for the past year or two. They have tried soaking in hot water and electrotherapy, but the results have been unsatisfactory. The patient has a history of hypertension and diabetes. What treatm...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
After several years of diabetes, some patients may develop neuropathy, which is related to the control of blood glucose levels. A common form of polyneuropathy is the sensation of numbness in the extremities, gradually extending towards the body. Currently, there is no cure for n...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Numb Toes in Elderly Patients with Diabetes
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?
Understanding Cellulitis: A Patient's 21-Day Struggle with Infection
Cellulitis, hospitalized for 11 days... on the 21st day... still suffering? Dear Dr. Liao, The patient does not have liver disease or diabetes and has sinusitis. The bacteria causing the infection and the substances they have been exposed to cannot be determined. The patient is ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. If the knee is still swollen and round, rehabilitation exercises can be performed at the bedside or on a chair to improve circulation and reduce edema. 2. The goal is to keep the C-reactive protein (CRP) level below 1. Sometimes it may take a bit longer to gra...[Read More] Understanding Cellulitis: A Patient's 21-Day Struggle with Infection
Managing Cellulitis: A 11-Day Hospital Journey and Ongoing Challenges
Cellulitis, hospitalized for 11 days, currently still unable to achieve complete control? On October 11, the patient experienced foot pain and sought medical attention at a general orthopedic clinic. The doctor prescribed anti-inflammatory and pain relief medication for three day...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, 1. I have a general understanding of your (or your family member's) condition; it may be necrotizing fasciitis or severe soft tissue inflammation. This is inherently a serious and challenging condition to manage. 2. First, it is important to assess whether...[Read More] Managing Cellulitis: A 11-Day Hospital Journey and Ongoing Challenges
Understanding Neurological Imbalance: Symptoms and Next Steps
Regarding neuro imbalance? Hello Doctor: My father is 62 years old and has a history of diabetes for about 6 years, which has been well controlled. This morning (October 14), he suddenly experienced dizziness, blurred vision (only in the left eye, with double vision), nausea, and...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Sudden onset of dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, and cold sweats may indicate hypoglycemia. If possible, checking fingertip blood glucose levels can provide confirmation; if immediate testing is not feasible, consuming sugar cubes or juice can be helpful. If there is uncontroll...[Read More] Understanding Neurological Imbalance: Symptoms and Next Steps
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
Managing Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease: Treatment and Dietary Concerns
Kidney disease issues? Dr. Chen: Hello, I have a question. My father is 82 years old and has been diagnosed with stage 3 chronic kidney disease (moderate). The doctor hasn't prescribed much medication for him, only some uric acid-lowering drugs. Is this treatment appropriate...
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
1. The key focus in managing stage 3 chronic kidney disease is to monitor renal function and effectively control the patient's hypertension, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. 2. There are no medical research reports confirming that herbal decoctions can treat kidney ...[Read More] Managing Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease: Treatment and Dietary Concerns
Dehydration and Heat Illness: When to Seek Medical Attention
After feeling unwell due to hot weather? Hello doctor, I would like to ask: A week ago, I drank too much beer one night, and the next day I vomited while on a boat. The weather was hot, and I didn't drink much water. After some activity in the afternoon, I vomited again. I t...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, hot weather combined with a lack of hydration and electrolyte replenishment can indeed lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat stroke. The symptoms you described cannot completely rule out these conditions....[Read More] Dehydration and Heat Illness: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Risks of Dialysis: Can Patients Face Life-Threatening Issues?
Dialysis-related issues (forwarded from the Director's mailbox) Is it possible for dialysis patients to experience life-threatening situations during the dialysis process? I saw news from mainland China where someone died during dialysis, and the doctors there mentioned that...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Ms. Weng: Hello, regarding your inquiry, it should be related to the patient's pre-existing conditions. If you have the opportunity to accompany your father to dialysis, you will notice that each individual's situation is different and cannot be compared. If your father...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Dialysis: Can Patients Face Life-Threatening Issues?
Managing Numbness and Redness in Toes for Seniors with Diabetes
The toes are red and numb? I am 83 years old and have hypertension and diabetes. I take medication every day. Since last year, I have been experiencing numbness in the toes of both feet, along with a reddish appearance. I have tried soaking them in warm water, but there has been ...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Diabetes complications include neuropathy, which can affect sensory nerves, motor nerves, and even autonomic nerves. If there is redness and warmth in the feet, infection (such as cellulitis) must be ruled out before suspecting neuropathy. Numbness and pain are associated with se...[Read More] Managing Numbness and Redness in Toes for Seniors with Diabetes
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
Exploring Insulin Options and Potential Side Effects for Diabetes Management
Diabetes issues Hello Dr. Lee, 1. I have asked my physician about my current use of NovoMix 30 insulin, and they mentioned that there is no better or purer medication available. Do you know of any better options? 2. What are the potential side effects of using insulin, such a...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Mr. Chen: Hello! Regarding your concerns about the use of insulin, I recommend discussing them in person with your attending physician for a more suitable conversation. Wishing you good health![Read More] Exploring Insulin Options and Potential Side Effects for Diabetes Management
Understanding the Cancer Risks and Benefits of Baked Foods and Coffee
Food-related Hello Dr. Hsiao, I often come across many articles stating that baked foods can cause cancer. However, baked items like coffee are commonly consumed by humans, and there are numerous studies suggesting that coffee has anti-cancer properties and is beneficial in many ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. According to the current medical literature, the consumption of coffee is neither recommended nor discouraged. There are reports indicating that drinking coffee may reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, alcoholic liver cirrhosis, gout, and diab...[Read More] Understanding the Cancer Risks and Benefits of Baked Foods and Coffee