How to Test for Tick-Borne Disease: A Guide for Patients
How to submit samples for Chagas disease testing? How should suspected cases of tick-borne encephalitis be sent for testing, and which institutions can perform tests for tick-borne encephalitis? Since there have been no reported human infection cases, the information available is...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the aforementioned condition, it seems that the diagnosis may not be accurate, and the patient is becoming increasingly weak. The following recommendations are suggested: 1. If there has been a tick bite => It is advisable to visit a larger hospital to ...[Read More] How to Test for Tick-Borne Disease: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Elevated Postprandial Blood Sugar: Insights and Solutions
Glycated hemoglobin is normal, fasting blood glucose is normal, but postprandial blood glucose is elevated? I undergo a comprehensive health check-up every two years, and my previous blood sugar levels have always been normal. During my recent check-up last month, my fasting bloo...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, netizen: Blood glucose levels are a crucial indicator for diagnosing diabetes. In healthy individuals, fasting blood glucose levels after an 8-hour fast should be below 100 mg/dL, and blood glucose levels two hours after a meal should be below 140 mg/dL. If fasting blood g...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Postprandial Blood Sugar: Insights and Solutions
Understanding Glomerular Filtration Rate: What You Need to Know
Regarding the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) value? Hello, Dr. Hsiao. I have been experiencing fasting blood glucose levels between 102 and 112 for a long time. This time, I underwent tests, and my fasting blood glucose was 108, postprandial was 119, HbA1c was 5.6%, blood urea ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
According to a study published in The Lancet in 2008, it is estimated that 11.93% of adults in Taiwan have chronic kidney disease (CKD). The stages of severity are as follows: 1. Stage 1: Kidney damage with normal or increased GFR, GFR ≥ 90 ml/min/1.73 m². 2. Stage 2: Kidney dama...[Read More] Understanding Glomerular Filtration Rate: What You Need to Know
Understanding Kidney Sand: Risks, Prevention, and Follow-Up Care
Renal ultrasound shows the presence of calculi (stones)? Hello doctor, during a health check-up, an ultrasound was performed, and it was noted that my kidneys appear to have some sand. The doctor mentioned that drinking water, exercising, and going to bed early can help metaboliz...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Hello, most patients with kidney stones are asymptomatic unless the stones drop from the kidneys into the ureters, causing a blockage of urine flow. Common symptoms include flank pain, sweating, severe pain leading to dizziness, nausea, vomiting, restlessness, abdominal discomfor...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Sand: Risks, Prevention, and Follow-Up Care
Can Emotional Stress Trigger Autoimmune Diseases Like Lupus?
Autoimmune system diseases Hello, doctor. Can a person develop autoimmune diseases solely due to emotional stress, such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus? Or is emotion merely a trigger? If someone does not have the genetic predisposition, emotional stress a...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Dear netizens, the occurrence of a disease is rarely due to a single factor; emotional stress or genetics can be potential triggers. By following recommended screenings, adopting the correct medical concepts, and maintaining good lifestyle habits such as proper diet and exercise,...[Read More] Can Emotional Stress Trigger Autoimmune Diseases Like Lupus?
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 Blood Sugar Fluctuations in Diabetes Management
About diabetes? Hello Director Hsiao, Over two months ago, I had a blood test at the hospital, and my fasting blood glucose was 130 mg/dL, with a hemoglobin A1c of 6.4%. The doctor did not prescribe medication and advised dietary control instead. I purchased a blood glucose mete...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, a fasting blood glucose level of 126 mg/dL corresponds to a glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of approximately 6.5%. Therefore, the test results from two months ago should be reliable. 2. In the classification of diabetes, type 2 diabetes accounts for about 92-95%...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Fluctuations in Diabetes Management
Understanding Hunger-Induced Dizziness and Sleepiness: Blood Sugar Issues?
Feeling hungry, dizzy, and experiencing mood swings, followed by sleepiness after eating, could indicate several issues. These symptoms may suggest fluctuations in blood sugar levels, possibly related to conditions such as hypoglycemia or insulin resistance. It could also be rela...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. According to the conclusions and recommendations of the American Diabetes Association in 2010, a fasting plasma glucose level between 100 and 125 mg/dl is classified as impaired fasting glucose, indicating an increased risk of diabetes. Therefore, if your blood glucose level i...[Read More] Understanding Hunger-Induced Dizziness and Sleepiness: Blood Sugar Issues?
Understanding HbA1c Results: Do You Have Diabetes?
Revisiting the second question - Dr. Hsiang-Yung Hsiao? Hello, Doctor! I recently had my hemoglobin A1c tested, and the result was 6.5% (I did not test fasting and postprandial blood glucose). I would like to ask if I have officially been diagnosed with diabetes. My previous hemo...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
It is advisable to discuss your concerns with your physician; an HbA1c of 6.5% is already close to diabetes. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to dietary control and avoid excessive intake; regular exercise is also important.[Read More] Understanding HbA1c Results: Do You Have Diabetes?
Understanding Thumb Joint Bumps: Symptoms and Possible Causes
Thumb joint Hello Doctor: I have a small hard bump on the right side of the joint of my left thumb (near the nail), which becomes more noticeable when I bend my finger. It hurts when I press on it firmly. Is this what is referred to as gout? I have a tall and slim physique, and I...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Dear Miss Lin, I hope this message finds you well. The protrusion at the distal interphalangeal joint may be an early sign of joint degeneration or a ganglion cyst of the finger joint, and it is unlikely to be gout. Regardless of the cause, it should not lead to significant func...[Read More] Understanding Thumb Joint Bumps: Symptoms and Possible Causes
Managing Membranous Nephropathy: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips
Membranous nephropathy Before treatment for membranous nephropathy, proteinuria was between 1-2 grams, and albumin was above 1000. After treatment, proteinuria decreased to below 0.5 grams (minimum 0.17), and albumin fluctuated between 300-500 (minimum 100). With continued treatm...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Hong, Hello. Membranous nephropathy is an important glomerular disease that can lead to end-stage renal disease, especially in cases with severe proteinuria reaching nephrotic syndrome. In a ten-year follow-up, 30-40% of patients with this condition progress to renal failur...[Read More] Managing Membranous Nephropathy: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips
Understanding Unexplained Weight Loss: A Case Study in Mental Health and Lifestyle
Weight loss Hello Doctor: Since April of this year, I have been working full-time collecting scrap metal. I am a person with a mental disability, and finding a job is not easy; therefore, I resorted to recycling. Initially, it was just a hobby, and I would only collect occasional...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, the most common causes of weight loss include diabetes, hyperthyroidism, chronic illnesses, cancer, and others; it also encompasses physical exertion, depression, anorexia, and so on. Since you have already been evaluated by a physician who ruled out the possibility...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Weight Loss: A Case Study in Mental Health and Lifestyle
Managing Constipation in Diabetic Patients: Tips and Alternatives
Diabetes and Constipation The doctor would like to ask you, my dad has been experiencing constipation for many days and cannot find a way to relieve it. He has issues with high blood pressure and elevated blood sugar. My dad says that the constipation problem started after taking...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. If your father's constipation issue is indeed caused by the blood sugar-lowering medication, please have him inform the prescribing physician so that the doctor is aware. The physician may change the medication or prescribe a stool softener. 2. Hypertension can be ...[Read More] Managing Constipation in Diabetic Patients: Tips and Alternatives
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 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 Reiter's Syndrome: Prognosis, Treatment, and Dietary Considerations
Regarding Reiter's syndrome (reactive arthritis) I was recently diagnosed with Wright's syndrome, and looking back, I realize that I have had symptoms for over six months. I am currently taking antibiotics, immunomodulatory drugs, and pain medications. I would like to a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The prognosis for this condition is quite good. If inflammation and joint pain improve with ongoing treatment, it is possible to gradually reduce or even discontinue medication, which can be discussed with your physician. There are no specific ...[Read More] Understanding Reiter's Syndrome: Prognosis, Treatment, and Dietary Considerations
Understanding Edema: Causes and Concerns for Kidney Patients
Edema of the legs? Hello Dr. Wu: I have chronic glomerulonephritis with proteinuria and hypertension, and I undergo blood tests every three months. My kidney function is within normal limits, although my creatinine level occasionally exceeds 1.4 slightly. The cardiologist suggest...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. If pressing on the foot causes a dent that lasts about 3-5 seconds (sometimes several minutes) before recovering, does this count as edema? Answer: Yes, this is considered edema. 2. Kidney function is within normal limits, but sometimes creatinine is slightly above 1.4. Answ...[Read More] Understanding Edema: Causes and Concerns for Kidney Patients
Understanding the Connection Between Hypertension and Meniere's Disease
Hypertension disease Hello, I would like to ask if there is a connection between hypertension and Meniere's disease? Recently, my father went to the emergency room with a blood pressure spike of 200, experiencing severe headaches and occasional dizziness, especially in hot w...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello, Xiaoxin: Your father's blood pressure has reached 200 mmHg, along with severe headaches, dizziness, and symptoms of cardiac hypertrophy. This should not be taken lightly; he must seek medical attention regularly, and the physician will arrange for examinations and pre...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Hypertension and Meniere's Disease
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
Understanding RA: The Role of Immunomodulators and Anti-Inflammatory Diets
Regarding the inflammatory issues related to rheumatoid arthritis (RA)? Hello, Doctor Gao. I have recently been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and have researched a lot of information online. I have some questions I would like to ask you: 1. Regarding the medications ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The term "immunomodulatory drugs" refers to medications that regulate immune function. Although these drugs may not completely cure the underlying condition, they can be considered to have some curative effects. They help modulate the...[Read More] Understanding RA: The Role of Immunomodulators and Anti-Inflammatory Diets