Understanding Clinical Definitions of High-Fat Diets and Nut Consumption
Nutritional Counseling In clinical terms, a high-fat diet is typically defined as one that consists of more than 35% of total daily calories coming from fat. If you consume approximately 15 crushed nuts while maintaining a generally low-fat diet, it may not necessarily classify a...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. A high-fat diet generally refers to a diet with a higher proportion of fats, but there is no absolute definition. 2. What you described is merely a one-time excessive intake of fats, whereas a high-fat diet refers to a long-term dietary pattern. Therefore, it is usually...[Read More] Understanding Clinical Definitions of High-Fat Diets and Nut Consumption
Managing Vitamin B Supplementation in Patients with Kidney Disease
Regarding the issue of taking vitamin B? Hello doctor, I have diabetes and a kidney disease known as Fanconi syndrome. I have regular follow-up appointments, and my kidney function is currently about half of that of a normal person. Previously, I visited a neurologist due to pain...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello, Xiao You: "I heard the attending physician in nephrology say that my condition does not allow my body to absorb vitamins." I'm not very clear on what "unable to absorb" means. Generally, vitamins are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, and...[Read More] Managing Vitamin B Supplementation in Patients with Kidney Disease
Persistent Skin Rashes: Allergies or Immune System Issues?
Environmental stimuli and mosquito bites causing a rash that has not improved over time? Hello, I would like to ask about my friend who is 27 years old. In July, he worked in a central kitchen, which is a humid and hot environment, handling food while wearing gloves. After just s...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. My answer is as follows: Q: I would like to ask if this is considered an immune system issue? Because he only develops new red rashes on his right arm where he was bitten by mosquitoes initially, and it's not without reason that the rash...[Read More] Persistent Skin Rashes: Allergies or Immune System Issues?
Understanding Your Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
Medical issues? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing persistent dull pain in my lower right abdomen for two weeks, which is why I consulted a gastroenterologist this week. I have undergone eight blood tests, a fecal occult blood test, and an abdominal X-ray, and I am currently ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, your previous abdominal pain was indeed evaluated by a gastroenterologist. However, the subsequent dizziness and shortness of breath may not necessarily be related to the abdominal pain. It might be necessary to check for issues in other systems. I recommend scheduling an ...[Read More] Understanding Your Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Low Potassium Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help
Symptoms of hypokalemia? Recently, I had a blood test that showed my potassium level was only 3, and I have been experiencing some muscle weakness. I noticed in the report that I have been eating foods high in potassium, but my symptoms have not improved significantly. I would li...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the most common causes of low potassium levels are diarrhea or an imbalanced diet. Typically, it takes about 1-2 weeks of dietary potassium supplementation to see gradual increases. It is recommended to consume high-potassium foods for 1-2 weeks before retesting. If potass...[Read More] Understanding Low Potassium Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help
Do Nutritional Supplements Strain Kidney Function? A Closer Look
Kidney problems Doctor, will consuming "Quaker Complete Nutritional - Double Protein Formula Original Flavor Sugar-Free" cause kidney burden? Ingredients: Deionized water, maltodextrin, calcium caseinate, canola oil, sodium caseinate, sunflower oil, indigestible maltode...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Mr. S: May I first ask you what the definition of "causing kidney burden" is? Do you think eating two bowls of Ichiran ramen "will cause kidney burden"? What about eating a 40-ounce steak? I believe that for the general population or individuals with kid...[Read More] Do Nutritional Supplements Strain Kidney Function? A Closer Look
Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Key Questions and Dietary Guidance
Sjögren's Syndrome Index Hello Dr. Tseng! I have been diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome, and I have some questions to ask: 1. Is an ANA (antinuclear antibody) titer of 1:80 (+) and Cyto-C, SSA at 280 (+) considered severe? 2. What does Cyto-C refer to? 3. Is it possible...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, online friend. 1. ANA and SSA are only for diagnostic reference; their values are not necessarily related to the severity of the condition. 2. I'm not sure what Cyto-C is. 3. The SSA index can fluctuate, and it can certainly decrease. 4. If you experience dry mouth or...[Read More] Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Key Questions and Dietary Guidance
Exploring the Link Between Low Albumin in Lupus and Pregnancy Outcomes
The correlation between low albumin levels in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and pregnancy/abortion, along with proteinuria and the calculation method? Dear Dr. Gao, Thank you for your prompt response to my inquiry regarding #186219. I have another question related to lupus...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1) In 2017, starting from June, my proteinuria fluctuated between negative and positive, eventually showing ++ and +++. However, at that time, my albumin level was still at 4.2. There was a year when I did not undergo uri...[Read More] Exploring the Link Between Low Albumin in Lupus and Pregnancy Outcomes
Understanding Steroid Side Effects and Sock Indentations: A Patient's Inquiry
Onset of steroid side effects / Sock indentation marks Hello, Doctor. I have lupus erythematosus and have been undergoing treatment since 2012. Initially, I was taking three steroid pills, but three years ago, the dosage increased to five pills. Over the past six months, my weigh...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. How long does it take for steroid side effects to appear? Is my body change possibly related to medication use, or is it simply due to dietary or lifestyle changes? --> Side effects from steroids can begin to manif...[Read More] Understanding Steroid Side Effects and Sock Indentations: A Patient's Inquiry
Managing High Uric Acid and Liver Function: Best Specialist Options
What is the best way to manage high uric acid levels and elevated liver function tests? Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to address my concerns. I have recently received blood test results showing the following: height 165 cm, weight 70 kg. 1. Uric acid level: 8.9 mg/dL. 2....
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
High uric acid and fatty liver can benefit from consulting a nutritionist for education and guidance. Weight loss is essential; if dietary control is insufficient, consider seeking treatment from a metabolic specialist for medication.[Read More] Managing High Uric Acid and Liver Function: Best Specialist Options
Managing High Uric Acid and Liver Function: Best Specialist Options
What is the best way to manage high uric acid levels and elevated liver function tests? Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to address my concerns. I have recently received blood test results showing the following: height 165 cm, weight 70 kg. 1. Uric acid level is 8.9 mg/dL. ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
High uric acid levels and fatty liver can benefit from consultation with a nutritionist for education and guidance. Weight loss is essential; if dietary control is insufficient, consider seeking treatment from a metabolic specialist for medication management.[Read More] Managing High Uric Acid and Liver Function: Best Specialist Options
Managing High Uric Acid and Liver Function: Best Specialist Options
What is the best way to manage elevated uric acid levels and slightly elevated liver function indices? Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to address my concerns. I have recently received blood test results showing the following: height 165 cm, weight 70 kg. 1. Uric acid level...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
High uric acid and fatty liver can benefit from consulting a nutritionist for education and guidance. Weight loss is essential; if dietary control is insufficient, consider seeking medication treatment from a metabolic specialist.[Read More] Managing High Uric Acid and Liver Function: Best Specialist Options
Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Key Questions and Treatment Insights
Sjögren's syndrome Thank you, doctor! I am a patient with Sjögren's syndrome and have some questions to ask: 1. My SSA index is 280 (+), while the normal range should be below 100 (-). Does this mean my level is high? After treatment for a period of time, will my bloo...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. The SSA index is 280 (+), while the normal range should be below 100 (-). Is this considered high? Will it decrease after treatment? --> It is elevated, but the elevation does not correlate with the severity of th...[Read More] Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Key Questions and Treatment Insights
Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Are You at Risk for Diabetes?
Three high issues (referring to high blood pressure, high Hello Doctor: I recently had a basic blood test, and here are the results: eGFR: 80 (Is this low?), ALT: 12 (Does this indicate that my liver is healthy?), Uric Acid: 5.1 (Is this high?), TG (Triglycerides): 63 (I previous...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
A hemoglobin A1c level of 6 indicates prediabetes, and regular monitoring is necessary. Currently, dietary control is recommended. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Are You at Risk for Diabetes?
The Impact of Cetirizine on Kidney and Liver Health: What You Need to Know
Cetirizine and its effects on the kidneys and liver? Hello Doctor, I am a 35-year-old male, weighing 72 kg and 162 cm tall. I have been experiencing redness, swelling, and itching on various parts of my skin, which I believe started after I turned 20. I have consulted many hospit...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is it true that Cetirizine is minimally metabolized by the liver? Could chronic urticaria due to inflammation in the body lead to elevated liver enzymes, and is liver function unrelated to Cetirizine? --> Yes, mos...[Read More] The Impact of Cetirizine on Kidney and Liver Health: What You Need to Know
Understanding Fever and Symptoms in Gastroenteritis: What You Need to Know
Gastroenteritis with fever Hello Doctor, I started experiencing diarrhea around July 23 after consuming expired milk. I visited a doctor on July 25 and was diagnosed with gastroenteritis. After finishing the medication, I thought I had recovered, so on the following Friday (Jul...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: It is difficult to determine the cause of the fever based on the above description. Some individuals with gastroenteritis may indeed have a prolonged fever, but it is generally uncommon for a fever to last more than a week. If you are still experiencing a fever, it is advi...[Read More] Understanding Fever and Symptoms in Gastroenteritis: What You Need to Know
Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Causes, Treatment, and Concerns
Iron deficiency anemia Hello, doctor! I have a question. I have iron deficiency anemia, and my hemoglobin was initially only 8. The doctor recommended intravenous iron therapy, and after more than a year of treatment, my levels are approaching normal. However, my ferritin remains...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, women tend to lose a significant amount of iron due to menstruation. When combined with irregular daily routines, imbalanced diets, high stress, and lack of exercise, it can lead to long-term iron deficiency. It is advisable to first test for occult blood in the stool. If ...[Read More] Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Causes, Treatment, and Concerns
Understanding Long COVID: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
COVID-19 Hello, doctor. I recently tested positive for COVID-19, and after completing my isolation, I've noticed that I experience more shortness of breath and difficulty breathing during exercise compared to before. I would like to ask if I might be experiencing long COVID ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding long COVID, we primarily assess it based on clinical symptoms. According to your description, it does seem to be caused by long COVID. There are no specific treatment medications recommended for this condition. It is advisable to maintain a regular routine, get p...[Read More] Understanding Long COVID: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Understanding Your Urine Test Results: Key Insights for Diabetics
Examination Report Doctor, my urine screening report shows a microalbumin level of 30.4 and a urine creatinine level of 270.8. I have diabetes with a hemoglobin A1c of 10.1. Should I be concerned about this? Should I exercise more and control my diet? Thank you.
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Currently, there is no microalbuminuria; however, it is still important to manage blood sugar levels effectively, aiming to keep the hemoglobin A1c below seven to reduce the risk of complications in the future.[Read More] Understanding Your Urine Test Results: Key Insights for Diabetics
Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: When to See a Nephrologist
Creatinine levels exceed the standard? Hello Doctor: In my blood test report, my creatinine level is 1.21 and my glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is 71.7. Should I urgently see a nephrologist? What advice would you give me? My triglycerides are 160, total cholesterol is 210, high...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
For chronic kidney disease, a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) greater than 60, combined with proteinuria, hematuria, or renal parenchymal damage (such as stones, edema, or cysts), is required for a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease. Based on the report you provided, while your...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: When to See a Nephrologist