Understanding Shin Bone Indentation: Causes and Concerns
Tibial compression issues? Hello Dr. Chang, I have noticed that when I press on my shins, they indent and do not immediately bounce back. I remember that the tibia is mostly skin over bone, but recently I have observed that it looks different than before. When I touched it and pr...
Dr. Zhang Shixin Reply:
Hello Nick: Based on your description, this condition may be lower extremity edema. If the symptoms persist without improvement, it is recommended to visit a nephrology clinic for evaluation. Thank you for your inquiry![Read More] Understanding Shin Bone Indentation: Causes and Concerns
Is Syphilis Invisible? Understanding Symptoms and Recurrences
Is syphilis invisible? Last February, I suddenly woke up with a fever, a type of fever I had never experienced before. A few days later, I discovered a half-spherical mass the size of a ping pong ball on my cervix. Initially, I thought I had cancer. After a month, the ulcerous sm...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
A. Your description is quite vivid; however, the Treponema pallidum is not that miraculous. It can be cured with a course of penicillin. B. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the modes of transmission are as follows: 1. Close contact during sexual ...[Read More] Is Syphilis Invisible? Understanding Symptoms and Recurrences
Understanding Causes of Lower Limb Edema: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
What are the possible causes of lower extremity edema? Hello Doctor: My father has been experiencing lower limb edema (with pitting), abdominal bloating, loss of appetite, subjective fatigue (increased sleep duration), along with pain in the skin of both legs and ankle joint pain...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If the albumin level in the blood is too low, it may also cause lower extremity edema. It is recommended to check the albumin level data, as low levels can lead to lower limb swelling. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Causes of Lower Limb Edema: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Essential Health Tips for Dialysis Patients: Supplements and Care Guidance
Which department should I consult for diseases related to dialysis patients regarding dietary supplements? 1. Is it appropriate for dialysis patients to supplement with free lutein and sphingolipids? My mother is currently 67 years old. Last week, she was discharged from National...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
It is recommended that you take your elder to the outpatient clinic of the Department of Nephrology at National Taiwan University to discuss your concerns and any issues encountered with the original attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Essential Health Tips for Dialysis Patients: Supplements and Care Guidance
Understanding Anesthesia Allergies: Risks and Alternatives for Patients
Anesthesia Allergy Consultation About three years ago, I had to undergo surgery for testicular torsion. At that time, I received general anesthesia administered through an IV. I’m not sure if it was during or after the surgery, but the doctor mentioned that I developed pulmonary ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. If I developed acute pulmonary edema after surgery, is it likely due to an allergy to anesthesia, or could there be other possibilities? --> The likelihood is very low. It may be necessary to confirm whether it wa...[Read More] Understanding Anesthesia Allergies: Risks and Alternatives for Patients
Managing Edema: Concerns About Diuretics and Rising Uric Acid Levels
Discontinuation of diuretics can lead to edema? Hello, Doctor. About a month ago, I visited a clinic due to lower limb edema, and the doctor prescribed Rasitol 40 mg, one tablet daily. After taking it, the diuretic effect was quite good, and the edema improved. However, once I st...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
There are many causes of edema. Please visit the relevant specialty clinic to identify the underlying cause. Self-medicating with diuretics will not address the root issue. There are various types of diuretics; for example, thiazide diuretics can lead to elevated uric acid levels...[Read More] Managing Edema: Concerns About Diuretics and Rising Uric Acid Levels
Managing Ascites: Navigating Kidney and Liver Issues in Advanced Disease
It is unclear whether the ascites is caused by kidney issues or liver problems. How can this be addressed? I have hepatitis B, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Targeted therapy was interrupted due to side effects, and the hospital suddenly informed us that I am now in the late stage ...
Dr. Yan Qitai Reply:
Considering your condition, it is recommended to continue follow-up visits and treatment with the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department as well as the Nephrology Department. The physician will provide appropriate medical advice based on your condition during each visit. Depa...[Read More] Managing Ascites: Navigating Kidney and Liver Issues in Advanced Disease
Low C3 Levels and Edema: Exploring Potential Causes and Next Steps
Edema examination shows low C3 levels? Stage I thyroid cancer, right thyroidectomy medication: OncoTect 50mg/day. Received one dose of the AZ vaccine, experienced adverse effects after a full meal, and has not been diagnosed since May due to lower limb edema. Consulted at the Int...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. There are no specific issues with immune function, and a decrease in C3 does not have particular significance. It is recommended to continue monitoring with the Metabolism Department. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Chang...[Read More] Low C3 Levels and Edema: Exploring Potential Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Eye Puffiness: Is It Related to Thyroid Issues?
Eye swelling Hello, doctor. I was recently diagnosed with a thyroid issue, accompanied by swelling around my eyes, and I sometimes feel that my vision is a bit blurry. Is this related to my thyroid condition? If so, will the swelling and blurry vision symptoms disappear once my t...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Hypothyroidism can potentially cause edema, which may improve with treatment. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Eye Puffiness: Is It Related to Thyroid Issues?
Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Inquiry about Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello, Doctor. Over the past two to three years, I have frequently experienced skin allergies (rashes). When I am back in my hometown (Miaoli), my condition improves significantly during my vacation, but it immediately relapses when I return to ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. For someone like me who experiences long-term allergies that recur, could it be due to environmental factors, stress, or irregular lifestyle? What should I pay attention to or how can I improve? --> All three fact...[Read More] Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Understanding Cellulitis: Managing Pain and Mobility Issues
Unable to walk after contracting cellulitis? Three days ago, I was diagnosed with an infection in my left leg. I have been taking my medication regularly, but I have been experiencing fever almost continuously after taking the medication. Additionally, standing up causes unbearab...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, if you are still experiencing a fever three days after starting antibiotics, it usually indicates that the cellulitis has not been adequately controlled. It is advisable to return for a follow-up or consult an infectious disease specialist for evaluation. If the fever has ...[Read More] Understanding Cellulitis: Managing Pain and Mobility Issues
When Is Blood Dialysis Necessary? Understanding Kidney Function and Treatment
At what stage of a patient's condition is dialysis necessary? Hello Doctor, my grandmother was recently admitted to the emergency room due to pulmonary edema. After evaluation, the doctor determined that she needed urgent hemodialysis for rescue and then to monitor her recov...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Regarding the extent of renal failure that necessitates dialysis treatment, it is primarily when kidney function declines to stage 5 chronic kidney disease, accompanied by symptoms of uremia or fluid overload. Of course, the decision also depends on the clinical judgment o...[Read More] When Is Blood Dialysis Necessary? Understanding Kidney Function and Treatment
Understanding Steroid Dosage and Side Effects in Myositis Treatment
Steroid dosage usage Hello Dr. Gao, my mother is 68 years old. She was diagnosed with COVID-19 in May of this year. During the infection, she did not experience any severe symptoms. However, one month after testing negative, she developed unexplained muscle pain in both legs, whi...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Steroids can be taken on an alternating schedule, which is a method we use to gradually taper the dosage when there isn't a lower dose formulation available for adjustment. Steroids may cause edema and can also affect sleep, so it is advis...[Read More] Understanding Steroid Dosage and Side Effects in Myositis Treatment
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
Understanding Atypical Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis in Young Adults
I am not sure if it is truly ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, my son is currently 19 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital for over two years. Initially, he only experienced pain in the sacroiliac joint in his buttocks, ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The symptoms described by the user, such as experiencing pain in the lower back when leaning backward (but not when bending forward), are not typical of ankylosing spondylitis. There is no morning stiffness, no increased pain upon waking, and no relief after daytime activities, w...[Read More] Understanding Atypical Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis in Young Adults
Understanding Post-Treatment Reactions to Syphilis: What to Expect
Reactions after syphilis treatment? Hello, Doctor Liao. I went for an anonymous rapid syphilis test on August 13, and on August 18, I was informed that the result was positive for syphilis. On August 19, I made an appointment at the Infectious Disease Department of Pingtung Hospi...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Transmission Methods: 1. Close contact during sexual intercourse and other sexual activities is the primary route of transmission. Direct contact of wounds with secretions, bodily fluids, and other excretions (such as semen, blood, and vaginal secretions) from skin or mucosal les...[Read More] Understanding Post-Treatment Reactions to Syphilis: What to Expect
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
Understanding Kidney Function Tests: Interpreting Your Results
Kidney function tests Hello Dr. Wu, I had a general health check-up at a clinic in early May, and the report is as follows: - Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): 14.0 (normal range: 7-25) - Creatinine: 0.63 (normal range: 0.6-1.2) - Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): 115 (greater than 6...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
According to your inquiry, both reports indicate normal kidney function (as the glomerular filtration rate is greater than 60, and all urine tests are normal), which does not qualify as chronic kidney disease. For chronic kidney disease to be diagnosed, the glomerular filtration ...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function Tests: Interpreting Your Results
Do All Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Experience Morning Stiffness?
Do all patients with ankylosing spondylitis experience morning stiffness? Hello Doctor: I would like to confirm something with you regarding a question I asked yesterday (<a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/182368">#182368</a>, details below). I am attaching...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Morning stiffness is not related to the condition of the L4-5 vertebrae. Morning stiffness is associated with inflammation of the joints, tendons, and ligaments. The reason some individuals experience morning stiffne...[Read More] Do All Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Experience Morning Stiffness?
Understanding Muscle Indentation Above the Tibia: Kidney Health Insights
Depression upon palpation of the muscles above the tibia in the lower leg? Hello Dr. Wu, I apologize for bothering you, but I would like to ask you a question. Recently, I suddenly noticed that when I press on the muscles around my tibia in both calves, they indent and do not bou...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
According to your inquiry, the report you provided shows that urine protein levels are at 568 mg/g, which exceeds the normal value (<150 mg/g). This may require a discussion with a nephrologist regarding treatment options and adherence to a low-protein diet. Regarding the inde...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Indentation Above the Tibia: Kidney Health Insights