Diet, Internal Medicine FAQ

Managing High Triglycerides: Best Medications and Foods to Consider

Elevated triglycerides? What medications and foods are recommended for managing elevated triglyceride levels?

Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
If blood lipid levels are elevated, dietary control should be prioritized before considering medication. This is because medications may have side effects, and self-medicating is not recommended. It is best to have blood tests conducted at a hospital and receive treatment prescri...

Understanding Thyroid Disorders: From Hypothyroidism to Hyperthyroidism Management

Thyroid issues At the age of 25, I experienced palpitations and noticed swelling in the appearance of my thyroid, so I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and took herbal medicine for about six months. During this period, blood tests indicated hypothyroidism. La...

Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: The most common cause of hypothyroidism is autoimmune reactions, which require supplementation with thyroid hormones. However, excessive supplementation can lead to hyperthyroidism. Based on your condition, it seems that hyperthyroidism persists even after stopping thyroid...

Should You Seek Medical Attention for Hypothyroidism Symptoms?

Should I seek medical attention for hypothyroidism? Hello, doctor. I am currently seeking treatment for mental health issues. Aside from psychological problems, I do not have any major physical illnesses. The psychiatrist mentioned that hypothyroidism might affect emotional issue...

Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: Your symptoms suggest that you should consider the possibility of hypothyroidism, and it is advisable to see a specialist in metabolic disorders.

Understanding Abdominal Pain After Constipation: When to Seek Medical Help

Abdomen Hello Doctor, I haven't had a bowel movement for a long time, so last Thursday night I took one of my grandfather's medications, which I believe was Dulcolax 5mg, a yellow enteric-coated tablet. Around 10:30 PM, I started experiencing diarrhea, and the next da...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. Dulcolax promotes gastrointestinal motility, so a small number of patients who are more sensitive to the medication may experience abdominal pain or diarrhea. This side effect can improve simply by discontinuing the medication. 2. There ar...

Managing Anemia and Cholesterol: Do I Need to Take My Medications?

Please help me with my medication concerns! Thank you? Hello Doctor: I am a housewife and I rarely exercise! I often feel dizzy. Last July and August, I went to a public hospital for an examination, and the doctor prescribed me an iron supplement for anemia, which is Cyanocobalam...

Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello Tina: Your cholesterol and uric acid levels are slightly elevated. You can manage this through dietary control and may not necessarily need medication.

Understanding Weight Gain and Hormonal Changes: When to See a Doctor

Gynecology and Endocrinology In recent months, I have experienced a significant weight gain despite increasing my exercise and controlling my diet, but my weight has not decreased. Previously, I rarely had acne on my face, but in the last 2 to 3 months, I have been breaking out e...

Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: There is a possibility of an endocrine disorder, but further evaluation based on the actual situation is needed. You may consider visiting the endocrinology outpatient clinic.

Natural Sugars for Diabetics: Safe Options and Health Considerations

What types of carbohydrates can diabetes patients consume? Hello, Dr. Hsiao. I would like to ask what types of naturally derived sugars diabetic patients can consume. There are many chemically synthesized sugars available on the market, and consuming too much of them may burden t...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello, in response to your questions: 1. The development of sugar substitutes is primarily aimed at satisfying the human craving for sweetness. Common examples include saccharin, fructose, aspartame, sorbitol, and acesulfame K. If the sweetness of sucrose is rated as 1, then sor...

Does Eating Sweet Potatoes Raise Blood Sugar Levels and Risk Diabetes?

Does eating sweet potatoes frequently cause an increase in blood sugar levels? Currently, if your fasting blood sugar is 119, regularly consuming sweet potatoes may lead to increased blood sugar levels, potentially contributing to the development of diabetes.

Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. There are many causes of diabetes, generally classified into Type 1 and Type 2. The former accounts for 5-10% and is primarily due to the destruction of pancreatic β-cells by autoimmune antibodies or other factors; the latter accounts for ...

Understanding Your Blood Pressure Readings: Do You Have Hypertension?

Hypertension Based on the measurements you provided over the past 12 days, your blood pressure readings indicate that you may have hypertension. The systolic (upper) and diastolic (lower) values you recorded show several instances where the systolic pressure is above 140 mmHg and...

Dr. Wang Fangli Reply:
According to the blood pressure values mentioned, there is hypertension. Both internal medicine and family medicine can provide consultation. In daily life, it is important to maintain an ideal weight, follow a diet low in oil and salt, consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, an...

Do I Need a Glucose Tolerance Test with Stable Blood Sugar Levels?

Blood sugar level issues? Hello, Director Hsiao. I have been taking the antihypertensive medication Teromin, and my fasting blood glucose levels have consistently ranged between 90 and 110 (not including 110) during health check-ups over the years. Given this, do I need to underg...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, according to the current concept of "early diagnosis and early prevention" of diabetes, if fasting blood glucose is above 100 mg/dL, it is recommended to perform an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). If the blood glucose level excee...

Understanding Constipation: Stress, Bloating, and Solutions for Teens

Constipation I am currently a ninth-grade student, and I have not been having regular bowel movements every day. Could stress be causing this? I also experience bloating, which prevents me from gaining weight. What can I do to improve this situation?

Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Jie, Hello! Generally speaking, the Department of Health's recommendations for a balanced diet include adequate fluid intake (about 8 cups or approximately 2000 cc per day), sufficient vegetables (around 3-6 servings), and a moderate amount of fruits (about 2 servings)...

Managing Diabetes and Pneumonia: Essential Tips for Caregivers

Diabetes with pneumonia? Dear Dr. Wang, My father has diabetes, and although he measures his blood sugar daily, he enjoys drinking alcohol. Last week, he suddenly developed acute pneumonia, which made him refrain from drinking. However, due to his diabetes and pneumonia, he is h...

Dr. Wang Fangli Reply:
Hello Gina: For diabetic patients, consuming alcohol can lead to poor blood sugar control and increase the risk of infections such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections. When a diabetic patient develops acute pneumonia, it is important to supplement with high-protein foods, su...

Excessive Sweating in Elderly: Causes and Dietary Solutions

I don't know why I'm experiencing excessive sweating? Hello Doctor: My grandmother is 80 years old this year, and recently she has been sweating a lot for no apparent reason, and it lasts for a long time. However, she does not feel uncomfortable. Could this be due to he...

Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: The likelihood of excessive sweating in an 80-year-old woman due to hormonal deficiency is low. If there are no other discomforts, there is no need for special treatment. If other symptoms arise, further medical evaluation may be necessary.

Over-the-Counter Medications for Digestive Discomfort: What to Know

If you frequently experience stomach discomfort, are there any medications you can take? Hello, doctor. I often experience gastrointestinal issues, such as stomach discomfort and diarrhea. I would like to ask if there are any medications approved by the Department of Health that ...

Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Although you did not mention or describe more about the symptoms you are experiencing, assuming your diet is still okay, I suspect you may be suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). You can first consult a gastroenterologist for an initial evaluation. If there are no signi...

Do Diabetes Medications Need to Be Taken for Life? Insights and Alternatives

Regarding blood sugar and blood sugar medications? Dear Doctor, I would like to ask if my current blood sugar levels are high (around 140 mg/dL before meals and over 300 mg/dL after meals), and the doctor has already prescribed medication to lower my blood sugar. Is it true tha...

Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello KAREN: I apologize for the delayed response due to my annual leave. We need to first confirm whether you have diabetes; if so, treatment will be necessary. Medication is part of the treatment, but dietary control, exercise, and lifestyle modifications are also essential com...

Diabetes and Hypertension: Dietary Tips for Busy Eaters

Diabetes - Dietary Consultation for Diners Out As someone who frequently eats out and has high blood pressure, how can I manage my diet?

Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the crisis of eating out lies in the issues of high sugar, high fat, and high salt content. Therefore, dietary recommendations emphasize the importance of consuming ample fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and nuts; while avoiding foo...

Can I Drink Diet Coke While Trying to Lose Weight? Expert Insights

I would like to consult a physician regarding weight loss issues? Hello, doctor. I recently visited an internist who advised me to lose weight. I would like to ask if it's okay to drink Coca-Cola Light, which is a low-calorie beverage. Does it really have no calories? I'...

Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: If you want to lose weight, it's best to avoid any caloric beverages, as the calories in drinks are usually labeled.

Understanding High Uric Acid Levels: Causes, Treatments, and Lifestyle Tips

Regarding the issue of high uric acid levels? I would like to consult a doctor. I have a condition of elevated uric acid levels, with values between 11 and 12. Is the normal value 7? I discovered this issue three years ago when I suddenly experienced severe lower back pain and wa...

Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Hello, Ayou: The uric acid level should be maintained below 7.0 mg/dL. The most common sites affected by gout are the joints, particularly the interphalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joints (especially the big toe). During an acute attack, colchicine is typically administered alo...

Understanding Triglycerides: The Impact of Sashimi and Lifestyle Choices

Sashimi and triglycerides Dear Dr. Chen, Two weeks ago, I measured my triglyceride level at 280, with both liver enzyme levels around 45, and my vascular stiffness index at 6. I usually eat out, often stay up late, and smoke (about a pack a day), but I exercise at least three ti...

Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello Ruiheng: A balanced diet is very important, and it is best to quit smoking. This is Dr. Chen Qingbin from the Internal Medicine Department of Hualien Hospital. Although you exercise three times a week, staying up late is detrimental to your liver, smoking is harmful to your...

Managing Lymphedema After Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered

Lymphedema Dear Doctor: My mother is 70 years old. Six years ago, she underwent surgery for stage II breast cancer, during which 8 lymph nodes were removed, and she received 12 sessions of chemotherapy. Her recovery has been good overall, but she occasionally experiences upper li...

Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: 1. Please avoid consuming too much salt, as the weather can have unclear effects. 2. If you experience redness, swelling, heat, or pain, seek medical attention immediately, preferably from the original surgeon. Additionally, regular follow-ups are important. 3. Antibiotics...

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