Understanding Abnormal TSH Levels: Effects and Improvement Strategies
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) Abnormal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels (4.703) can indicate potential thyroid dysfunction. Elevated TSH levels may suggest hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland is underactive, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and de...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
A slightly elevated TSH generally indicates a tendency toward hypothyroidism, but it has not yet reached the level of true hypothyroidism, and it is unlikely to cause clinical symptoms. It is advisable to follow up in 3 to 6 months to see if it progresses to true hypothyroidism. ...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal TSH Levels: Effects and Improvement Strategies
Can People with Hyperthyroidism Consume Iodine-Rich Foods?
Hyperthyroidism I would like to ask if a person with hyperthyroidism (currently in a cured state) should avoid all iodine-containing foods in their daily diet. Does consuming only trace amounts (for example, a few micrograms) have any impact?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Foods high in iodine may exacerbate hyperthyroidism, but it is generally impractical to completely avoid iodine in everyday foods. It is advisable to minimize intake, as a few micrograms are not considered a significant amount.[Read More] Can People with Hyperthyroidism Consume Iodine-Rich Foods?
Caring for Rheumatoid Arthritis: Daily Tips for Better Management
Care for Rheumatoid Arthritis Dear Doctor, My friend has rheumatoid arthritis and has been receiving treatment and medication at the hospital for some time. They would like to better understand the information regarding daily care. What should they pay attention to in their dail...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, internet user: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease, and it is recommended to seek care from a rheumatologist. In addition to necessary medications, diet, exercise, and support from family and friends are very important. A Mediterranean diet rich in fresh...[Read More] Caring for Rheumatoid Arthritis: Daily Tips for Better Management
Can Niacin-Bound Chromium Help Control Blood Sugar in Type 2 Diabetes?
About Niacin-Bound Chromium? Dear Dr. Hsiao, My father is a patient with type 2 diabetes, and his recent postprandial blood glucose level was 180. His doctor has prescribed medication, which he is currently taking regularly. I would like to supplement his treatment with some die...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question. 1. Chromium is believed to improve carbohydrate metabolism by reducing insulin resistance. Physiological evidence suggests that insulin receptors are influenced by Apochromomodulin, leading to changes in insulin resistance. Apochromomodulin is...[Read More] Can Niacin-Bound Chromium Help Control Blood Sugar in Type 2 Diabetes?
Understanding Thyroid Issues: Weight Gain and Management Tips
I would like to inquire about thyroid issues? I was diagnosed with thyroid issues this year. Initially, I had hyperthyroidism, which was controlled with medication, but now it has turned into hypothyroidism. When I had hyperthyroidism, I lost a lot of weight, but now that it has ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Weight gain after treatment for hyperthyroidism is common and typically stabilizes at a certain point. Controlling lifestyle and diet can help reduce the extent of weight gain. The timing of medication related to hyperthyroidism has little impact on this.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Issues: Weight Gain and Management Tips
Fast Heart Rate and Cold Extremities: What Could Be the Cause?
What disease is characterized by a rapid heartbeat and cold extremities? Hello doctor, my father had surgery for hyperthyroidism several decades ago. He does not smoke or drink, and his blood pressure is considered normal, but his cholesterol levels are slightly elevated. His BMI...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
After thyroid hyperactivity surgery, there is a possibility of recurrence or developing hypothyroidism. The symptoms you described do not clearly align with manifestations of thyroid dysfunction; however, it is advisable to undergo an examination. You may consider consulting with...[Read More] Fast Heart Rate and Cold Extremities: What Could Be the Cause?
Managing Kidney Health: Understanding Diet and Function in Patients
Kidney disease management Hello Dr. Yang, I have a smaller left kidney (congenital, not due to atrophy) and during winter, I experience high blood pressure, increased urination, and nocturia. After visiting the hospital for follow-up examinations, my kidney function has remaine...
Dr. Yang Zhongwei Reply:
Hello: 1. Frequent urination (is it the frequency or the volume?) and nocturia are not necessarily indicative of kidney problems; it is advisable to consult a urologist to examine the bladder. 2. There is currently insufficient evidence to determine the effectiveness of a low-pro...[Read More] Managing Kidney Health: Understanding Diet and Function in Patients
Managing Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide for Seniors with Medication Changes
High blood sugar? Hello, my grandfather is 83 years old and has recently experienced a significant decrease in appetite due to tuberculosis medication, almost not eating breakfast. His fasting blood sugar levels are often around 40-50, which is very low. As a result, he was advis...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, various anti-tuberculosis medications can cause side effects such as hepatotoxicity, gastrointestinal reactions, nausea, vomiting, peripheral neuropathy, visual changes, hearing impairment, and hyperuricemia, among others. While not every pati...[Read More] Managing Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide for Seniors with Medication Changes
Managing High Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetes: Tips and Insights
High blood sugar? Hello Dr. Lee, I would like to ask how to handle high blood sugar levels? My mother has been a diabetic for about 15 years. She was previously controlled with oral medications, but for the past three years, she has started using insulin injections, which have no...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello Amin, Your question can be summarized as "how to effectively manage diabetes." In addition to the patient and their family, a team consisting of physicians, dietitians, and diabetes educators should be involved in managing diabetes. Currently, health bureaus in v...[Read More] Managing High Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetes: Tips and Insights
Struggling with Weight Loss: Seeking Solutions for Metabolism Issues
Questions about weight loss? Hello, Dr. Yang! Current situation: I am 170 cm tall and weigh 65 kg, which is overweight. I have a small appetite and try to take a walk after every meal! However, I still keep gaining weight. I have tried exercising before, and indeed, I lost weight...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
With a height of 170 cm and a weight of 65 kg, you may not be completely satisfied, but you are still within the standard range and cannot be considered overweight. There is no need to seek medical attention for weight issues, and it is not recommended to pursue any special treat...[Read More] Struggling with Weight Loss: Seeking Solutions for Metabolism Issues
Managing Symptoms After Thyroid Surgery and Radioactive Iodine Treatment
Symptoms after thyroid surgery and radiation therapy? Hello, Dr. Yang. My mother, who is 56 years old, underwent a total thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine treatment due to malignant thyroid cancer. The doctor has prescribed thyroid hormone medication for her, and she has been ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Thyroid hormone supplementation for one month is expected not to cause any issues related to hypothyroidism. After some time, further monitoring of thyroid function will be necessary. Currently, there are no special dietary restrictions.[Read More] Managing Symptoms After Thyroid Surgery and Radioactive Iodine Treatment
Post-Surgery Bloating: Managing Gas and Digestive Issues
Abdominal bloating I am currently five months post-operative from a uterine surgery, and recently I have been experiencing significant abdominal bloating. I have been passing gas frequently and feel the urge to use the restroom, but I can only pass gas. For several days, when I d...
Dr. Sun Yizhen Reply:
Hello: Regarding your question, it is recommended to follow up with your attending physician.[Read More] Post-Surgery Bloating: Managing Gas and Digestive Issues
Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Key Questions and Concerns
Is it hyperthyroidism? Hello Dr. Yang, I have been concerned about potential thyroid issues, so I underwent testing. A month ago, I had my first test, and recently I followed up to check my thyroid levels. At the end of October (10.26), my results were as follows: Serum TSH Level...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
If TSH is low and free T4 is normal, it can be classified as subclinical hyperthyroidism, indicating a tendency towards hyperthyroidism. There is no immediate need for urgent testing or treatment, and clinical manifestations are unlikely. This condition is not a contraindication ...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Key Questions and Concerns
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Key Questions and Insights
Check blood glucose levels? Hello Doctor: I usually have a light diet, but last night I had a gathering with friends and ate significantly more than usual, about 2-3 hours later than normal. This morning, my first blood sugar test showed a level of 125, and I’ve heard that 126 in...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Normal fasting blood glucose levels are below 100 mg/dL. Your current condition indicates poor fasting blood glucose control, which does not yet qualify as a diagnosis of diabetes; however, it significantly increases the risk of developing diabetes in the future. Any weight loss ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Key Questions and Insights
Understanding Diabetes Risk: The Impact of Sugar on Your Health
Diabetes-related knowledge Hello, Doctor: My daily diet mainly consists of legumes and whole grains, and I tend to follow a vegetarian diet, but I really enjoy desserts. When I cook or make tea and cocoa, I tend to add a lot of granulated sugar. However, I engage in moderate phys...
Dr. Lü Jing Reply:
Although there is no clear evidence that consuming excess sugar directly causes diabetes, a high intake of carbohydrates can lead to weight gain, and rapid spikes in blood sugar levels are detrimental to health. It is advisable to limit refined sugars and instead consume more who...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Risk: The Impact of Sugar on Your Health
Can Stress Cause Sudden Blood Sugar Spikes? Understanding Diabetes Risks
Stress Doctor, may I ask if stress can cause blood sugar levels to spike suddenly? My usual fasting blood sugar is around 97 to 106, but I started feeling unwell yesterday, and this morning, after fasting for 8 hours, my blood sugar was 131. Two hours after eating, it was 184. Wh...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: Increased stress can lead to heightened activity of the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in increased secretion of catecholamines such as norepinephrine and epinephrine. This can cause elevated blood sugar levels, increased glycogenolysis in the liver and muscles, hei...[Read More] Can Stress Cause Sudden Blood Sugar Spikes? Understanding Diabetes Risks
Understanding Cracked Corners of the Mouth: Causes and Dietary Solutions
Cracked corners of the mouth? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask what causes cracks at the corners of the mouth (possibly a deficiency in B vitamins), or which types of vegetables should be included in the diet to prevent this. Thank you.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: "Cracks at the corners of the mouth" are clinically referred to as angular cheilitis, which is characterized by a triangular-shaped redness, swelling, fissuring, and peeling at the corners of the mouth. The causes include infections (such as bacterial or fungal),...[Read More] Understanding Cracked Corners of the Mouth: Causes and Dietary Solutions
Understanding Post-Meal Vomiting: High Protein and Rich Broth Issues
Postprandial vomiting discomfort after high-protein and thick broth consumption? Hello, Dr. Sun! For the past two years, I have experienced severe gastrointestinal discomfort and vomiting 2-3 hours after consuming broth (such as the thick chicken soup from Ji Yuan in Taipei, whic...
Dr. Sun Yizhen Reply:
It is recommended that you see a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Post-Meal Vomiting: High Protein and Rich Broth Issues
Understanding Weakness After Meals: Is It Low Blood Sugar or Something Else?
Weakness in the limbs? Hello Doctor: I experience a feeling of overall weakness a few hours after eating. It happens occasionally, but I don't feel hungry in my stomach. Currently, my solution is to eat something to create a slight feeling of fullness, and about half an hour...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
If there is discomfort in the body that improves after eating, it cannot be ruled out that it is caused by hypoglycemia; however, true hypoglycemic episodes are not very common. If symptoms are pronounced, blood tests to check blood glucose levels should be conducted during sympt...[Read More] Understanding Weakness After Meals: Is It Low Blood Sugar or Something Else?
Managing Diabetes: Food Control vs. Medication for Blood Sugar Levels
Diabetes mellitus I went to the hospital for a blood sugar test and was diagnosed with diabetes. I bought a blood glucose meter and have stopped taking my blood sugar medication, opting to control it with food instead. My postprandial blood sugar levels are maintained between 120...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Since the blood sugar levels are not very high, dietary control combined with exercise can be tried for a period of time. Monitoring the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) will help assess long-term blood sugar control. If the results are not satisfactory, then oral hypoglycemic agents ...[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Food Control vs. Medication for Blood Sugar Levels