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 Breakfast: Timing and Healthy Snacking Between Meals
Health Consultation Hello, Doctor: I have a few related questions to ask. 1. How long after waking up without eating can it be considered that one has skipped breakfast? 2. The Department of Health advocates for regular meal times; does this also imply that one should not eat any...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. How long after waking up without eating can it be considered skipping breakfast? According to the normal human biological clock, humans work and are active during the day and rest and sleep at night. Therefore, three meals a day are generally needed, typically breakfast, lunch...[Read More] Understanding Breakfast: Timing and Healthy Snacking Between Meals
Understanding Low Triglycerides: Health Impacts and Solutions
Low triglycerides? During our recent health check-up, it was pointed out that our triglyceride levels are low. Could you please explain what effects low triglyceride levels may have on the body? Additionally, how can we address this issue to bring the levels back to normal? Thank...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Gloria: Low triglyceride levels may be caused by dietary restrictions or malnutrition. Are you currently on a diet for weight loss? It is advisable to consult a physician for treatment if there are any concerns.[Read More] Understanding Low Triglycerides: Health Impacts and Solutions
Essential Foods to Avoid for Diabetes Management
Diabetes contraindications Hello, Dr. Liao. Besides avoiding sugar and reducing oil intake, what other foods should people with diabetes avoid?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello Mr. W: For patients with diabetes, it is recommended to follow a balanced diet, with low oil and sugar intake, and an emphasis on consuming more vegetables and fruits along with regular exercise. Nutritionists suggest that any food can be consumed, but portion control is im...[Read More] Essential Foods to Avoid for Diabetes Management
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 Kidney Health: The Impact of Protein and Nutrition on Urinary Issues
Kidneys and Urinary Protein Hello Doctor: During a recent health check-up, my report indicated that both my blood pressure and urine protein levels were too high (the doctor mentioned it could indicate glomerulonephritis). I also noticed that my urine is foamy almost every time I...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Based on your statement that "both blood pressure and urine protein are too high," it is possible that you have "glomerulonephritis." General recommendations include: a. controlling blood pressure (<130/80 mmHg) b. following a "low" protein die...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Health: The Impact of Protein and Nutrition on Urinary Issues
Understanding the Causes of Diabetes-Related Deaths: Insights from Dr. Liao
Diabetes mellitus Hello Dr. Liao, could you please explain the causes of death related to diabetes?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello Mr. Tang: If diabetes is not well controlled, it can lead to the following complications: (1) cardiovascular disease (2) eye disorders (3) kidney disease (4) neuropathy. These are the potential impacts of poor blood sugar control. The primary goal of diabetes management is ...[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Diabetes-Related Deaths: Insights from Dr. Liao
Understanding Hypertension Management: Questions About Diagnosis and Treatment
Hypertension screening I started experiencing daily blood pressure readings around 140/98 and symptoms of dizziness and headaches at the end of February, so I went to see a cardiologist. The doctor prescribed antihypertensive medication before waiting for the test results. A week...
Dr. Zhang Guoji Reply:
1. If you have concerns about the original physician's management, you should discuss it with the physician during the outpatient visit to understand their perspective and resolve your issues, as each physician may have different thoughts and approaches. Asking other physici...[Read More] Understanding Hypertension Management: Questions About Diagnosis and Treatment
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Dairy and Supplements Explained
Gastrointestinal ~ 2 questions Doctor, I have a couple of questions: 1. Whenever I consume dairy products, I always experience abdominal discomfort and need to use the restroom afterward. This happens every time! 2. Additionally, regardless of which dietary supplement I take, I e...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Lactose intolerance or milk allergy can both cause symptoms such as bloating or abdominal discomfort. It is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation. With the wide variety of dietary supplements available, it can be difficult to determine which ones are ap...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Dairy and Supplements Explained
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 Chronic Thyroiditis: Impact on Fertility and Pregnancy
Chronic thyroiditis Hello, doctor. Last May, I had a blood test that revealed my thyroid antibody level (TA) was 800, while other indices (TSH, T3, T4, MA) were normal. After taking quinine for a year, my TA level decreased to 470, but the other indices remain normal. My husband ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Dear Ms. Hsueh, I apologize for the delayed response as I have just returned to the country. Elevated thyroid antibodies with normal thyroid function (paying attention to TSH and Free T4) and the absence of symptoms should not pose a risk for miscarriage. I recommend seeking a ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Thyroiditis: Impact on Fertility and Pregnancy
Can Anemia Cause Hair Loss? Understanding the Connection and Solutions
Can anemia cause hair loss????? Hello, I have anemia, which I believe is hereditary since my mother also has it! I have been experiencing hair loss since high school and have tried many methods without success. I wonder if this could be due to anemia, as my mother, sister, and au...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Hair loss can have many causes, including stress, infections, thyroid dysfunction, elevated androgens, medications, and iron deficiency anemia. It is advisable to consult a dermatologist for further evaluation. Dr. Tsai Tsung-Lin, Internal Medicine Physician at National Cheng Kun...[Read More] Can Anemia Cause Hair Loss? Understanding the Connection and Solutions
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
Understanding High Triglycerides: Risks, Testing, and Dietary Advice
Triacylglycerol levels inquiry? Hello Doctor, my mother is 55 years old, 160 cm tall, and weighs 65 kg. Recently, she has experienced a loss of sensation in her feet, and after undergoing tests at a hospital, the doctor informed her that she is at risk of a stroke due to her trig...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello Xiaoyun: It is indeed a rare case for your mother to have triglyceride levels exceeding 5000. I recommend visiting a metabolic clinic for further evaluation before deciding on a treatment plan. Wishing you and your family good health![Read More] Understanding High Triglycerides: Risks, Testing, and Dietary Advice
Impact of Diet on Blood Test Results for Prediabetes
Prediabetes Hello Dr. Lee: Today, the hospital's blood test report shows fasting blood glucose: 117, glycated hemoglobin: 5.8, triglycerides: 193, cholesterol: normal, and uric acid: normal. I consumed a large amount of soda (5 bottles) and ate fried chicken nuggets (4 piece...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Based on what you mentioned, I recommend that you pay attention to the following three points: 1. Correct your dietary habits. 2. You are at high risk for diabetes: as your glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is greater than 5.7; please note that glycated hemoglobin is not affecte...[Read More] Impact of Diet on Blood Test Results for Prediabetes
Dietary Guidelines for Pre-Dialysis Kidney Patients: What to Know
I would like to ask about dietary issues for dialysis patients? I'm sorry to hear about your mother's condition. Here are some dietary adjustments that can help: 1. Yes, you can use reduced-sodium salt when cooking. It's important to limit sodium intake to help ma...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. The most appropriate course of action is to visit a nephrology outpatient clinic (if you regularly see a nephrologist, consult with your usual physician or dietitian) to discuss in detail with the physician or dietitian (including the arrangement of subsequent treatment plans,...[Read More] Dietary Guidelines for Pre-Dialysis Kidney Patients: What to Know
Can Kidney Disease Patients Safely Conceive and Have Children?
Can a patient with kidney disease become pregnant? Can kidney patients become pregnant? My daughter underwent dialysis for three years and has had a kidney transplant for fourteen years now. Her creatinine levels fluctuate, currently maintaining around 3 to 4 mg/dL. Is it possibl...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Ms. Wang, Hello. Women who have successfully undergone kidney transplantation can often regain normal reproductive function, provided that their kidney function is stable, there is no rejection of the transplanted kidney, no proteinuria, no hypertension, and that immunosupp...[Read More] Can Kidney Disease Patients Safely Conceive and Have Children?
Struggling with Severe Constipation: Seeking Solutions and Dietary Tips
Hello, doctor. I am experiencing severe constipation? Three years ago, I experienced autonomic nervous system dysfunction, which led to rapid heartbeat and severe constipation. I relied on laxatives and enemas until the laxatives became ineffective! Even the doctors are unsure of...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Chronic constipation is indeed a very frustrating issue. Based on your age, it is less likely to be caused by a disease and is more likely related to individual constitution. I recommend that you eat fruit on an empty stomach before breakfast every day, such as bananas or apples ...[Read More] Struggling with Severe Constipation: Seeking Solutions and Dietary Tips
Understanding Upper Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Solutions
Abdominal distension? Hello: After having the reunion dinner on the first day of the Lunar New Year, I felt a bloating sensation in the upper abdomen, just below the ribs. However, I don't feel like it's a stomach issue. When I try to tighten my abdomen, it feels like t...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Based on your symptoms, it is evident that you are experiencing what is commonly referred to as dyspepsia. The cause may be simply due to dietary indiscretion leading to gastrointestinal overload, or it could be acute gastritis or even an acute peptic ulcer. In mild cases, taking...[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Solutions