Understanding the Diagnostic Process for Arthritis: Key Considerations and Timeline
What should be noted and considered during the diagnostic process? How long does the diagnostic process typically take? Is it possible that it could be another non-autoimmune disease? Hello, Doctor Gao. I have been experiencing symptoms of arthritis for the past three weeks, incl...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe you can undergo an anti-CCP test, which you can discuss with your physician, as it relates to prognosis and future changes in your condition. If these tests return normal results, although you still experience joint pain, the severity...[Read More] Understanding the Diagnostic Process for Arthritis: Key Considerations and Timeline
Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns
Chronic urticaria Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if chronic urticaria can only be managed with medication. I have been taking antihistamines for over two months, and during that time, I felt fine without itching, although sometimes my skin would be a bit red. A few years ago,...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The result of the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is acceptable; although it is marked as positive, the value is still within an acceptable range according to rheumatology standards, so there is no need to worry too much. Regarding chronic urti...[Read More] Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns
Effective Strategies for Managing Abdominal Obesity: A Guide
How to manage obesity? I want to lose weight, especially abdominal fat. How does your department handle this? What is the difference between seeing a metabolic specialist and a family medicine physician?
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: The metabolic department focuses on obesity issues primarily related to endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism, among others. The management approach includes correcting endocrine abnormalities, dietary control, and exercise management. I'm not very clear on the ...[Read More] Effective Strategies for Managing Abdominal Obesity: A Guide
Understanding Pituitary Gland Abnormalities: MRI Insights and Implications
Pituitary gland Hello Doctor: Previously, an endocrinologist discovered that I have an endocrine disorder and suspected an issue with my pituitary gland. Therefore, I underwent an MRI, and the report is as follows: MRI for Sella with and without contrast medium images: Findings: ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
The report indicates that everything is normal.[Read More] Understanding Pituitary Gland Abnormalities: MRI Insights and Implications
How to Diagnose My Health Issues: Weight Gain and Urinary Concerns
How can I get a diagnosis? Hello Doctor, I have had a question for a long time. My weight suddenly increased by over 20 kilograms in the past few years. During my health check last year, the report showed that my blood sugar was normal, but my urine glucose was ++. At that time, ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Gigi: According to medical principles, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder that can lead to irregular menstruation, obesity, masculinization, and even infertility. It is often associated with diabetes or insulin resistance-related glucose intoleranc...[Read More] How to Diagnose My Health Issues: Weight Gain and Urinary Concerns
Understanding Sudden Weight Gain: Causes and Concerns
Short-term rapid weight gain issues? Hello Doctor: This week, I suddenly noticed that my weight has increased significantly in just a few days (from 55 kg to 63 kg). My diet has remained the same as before, but my records indicate an increase in body fat percentage, a drastic dec...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. JMF: 1. If there is an increase from 55 kg to 63 kg within a week, that amounts to an approximate daily increase of 1 kg; and various extensive examinations have shown no issues. Such a rate of weight gain is extremely rare in medicine and even contradicts common sense....[Read More] Understanding Sudden Weight Gain: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Hormonal Imbalance: Excess Hair Growth and Irregular Periods
Is it an endocrine disorder? Hello, doctor. Since I started developing in the sixth grade, I've noticed an increase in body hair, particularly on my chest, which is quite noticeable and not just fine hair. There are also two very thick hairs, about 5 to 6 centimeters long, s...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Sofia: 1. There are many causes of hirsutism in women; the more common ones include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and idiopathic hirsutism. Less common causes may include medications (such as Danazol), congenital adrenal hyperplasia, ovarian tumors, adrenal tumors, ...[Read More] Understanding Hormonal Imbalance: Excess Hair Growth and Irregular Periods
Foods to Avoid with Hormonal Imbalance: A Comprehensive Guide
Endocrine disorder Hello, doctor. I would like to ask what other foods should be avoided in addition to fried foods and chocolate for endocrine disorders?
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Anonymous: 1. The endocrine system primarily includes the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Each of these axes has its own stimulation and feedback mechanisms. Additionally, the pa...[Read More] Foods to Avoid with Hormonal Imbalance: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms and Diagnosis Explained
Mediterranean anemia (also known as thalassemia) Hello doctor, I have thalassemia and often experience dizziness. I thought it was due to moderate thalassemia. I recently had a routine blood test, and the results came back quickly. The doctor said my blood is normal, with a hemog...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Wei, Thalassemia, or Mediterranean anemia, is classified into α-thalassemia (determined by four α genes on chromosome 16) and β-thalassemia (determined by two β genes on chromosome 11), both of which are inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. Problems arise only wh...[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms and Diagnosis Explained
Understanding Fatigue: Causes and Solutions for Persistent Weakness
Generalized weakness? Hello, Dr. Hsiao! I am 19 years old and have a normal sleep schedule of about 8 hours. I wake up feeling well-rested, but after a while, I start to feel fatigued again. Taking a nap in the afternoon helps somewhat, but I still feel tired shortly after. Recen...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Anonymous: 1. Fatigue is something that almost everyone experiences at some point in their lives, and most diseases can cause fatigue. Typically, fatigue is temporary, self-limiting, and the primary cause can often be identified. Based on the nature of the causes, fati...[Read More] Understanding Fatigue: Causes and Solutions for Persistent Weakness
Understanding Rising Eosinophil Levels: Causes and Concerns
Eosinophils have been increasing year by year? Dr. Liao, I apologize for the interruption. I would like to ask about my health check report from two years ago, which showed an eosinophil count of 7 (greater than 5), and last year it increased to 10. What could be the possible rea...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, 1. Regarding the increase in eosinophils, the possible causes are as follows: A: (1) Parasitic infections (2) Allergies (3) Skin diseases (4) Toxicity (5) Rheumatic autoimmune diseases (6) Endocrine disorders (7) Tumors If you have further questions, plea...[Read More] Understanding Rising Eosinophil Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Sour Smell in Diarrhea: Causes and Concerns
Diarrhea with a sour odor? Hello Doctor: I was diagnosed with gastroenteritis this past Monday, and today is Saturday. I have noticed that I am still experiencing diarrhea, and the stool has a sour and foul odor. Is this normal? If not, what could be causing the sour smell?
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, acute diarrhea lasts for 14 days or less and is usually caused by infections, most of which can resolve on their own. Persistent diarrhea lasts more than 14 days, while chronic diarrhea lasts more than 30 days. 2. Acute diarrhea includes: a. Diarrhea caused by pat...[Read More] Understanding Sour Smell in Diarrhea: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Male Pear-Shaped Bodies: Causes and Solutions
male pear-shaped body Hello Dr. Tsai: As the title suggests, my upper body is slim, like my father; but my lower body is plump, like my mother (though my hands also resemble my mother's). I am currently a senior in high school, standing at 160 cm and weighing close to 60 kg....
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Body shape is partially influenced by genetics, and consuming two to three cups of soy milk per week should not significantly affect estrogen levels. In males, elevated estrogen levels combined with reduced testosterone may lead to gynecomastia. Certain genetic disorders may resu...[Read More] Understanding Male Pear-Shaped Bodies: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Uneven Facial Hair Growth: Possible Medical Concerns
The beard is longer on one side? Hello Dr. Tsai: For the past six months, I have encountered a situation where the hair on the left side of my upper lip and the hair inside my left nostril have stopped growing, while the right side and my chin are normal. Could you please advise ...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Hair develops from hair follicles, and in humans, hair undergoes changes influenced by puberty hormones, transitioning from fine vellus hair to coarser terminal hair. Issues with hair growth or distribution may arise from problems with the hair itself or endocrine disorders, and ...[Read More] Understanding Uneven Facial Hair Growth: Possible Medical Concerns
Understanding White Lesions on the Tongue: Causes and Concerns
Tongue The white objects on both sides at the back of the tongue, each measuring 1x2.5 cm and having some thickness that does not resolve, could be indicative of several conditions. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. Possible causes ma...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello, here is the response to your question: There are many different manifestations of tongue diseases. In addition to diseases of the oral mucosa and the tongue itself, systemic diseases (such as anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, tumors, endocrine disorders, amyloidosis, etc.) can...[Read More] Understanding White Lesions on the Tongue: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Growth Patterns and Endocrine Factors in Late Adolescence
About Endocrinology Hello Doctor: I am currently still growing taller at the age of 17. I have been growing since I was young and have not stopped. I have had my period for over three years now, so why am I still growing? I was 177 cm at 16 years old, and now I am 180 cm, and jus...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Height is related to genetics, and if a child experiences rapid growth in height, it is advisable to consult a metabolic specialist at a major hospital.[Read More] Understanding Growth Patterns and Endocrine Factors in Late Adolescence
Unexplained Weight Loss in Middle-Aged Women: Causes and Concerns
Unexplained weight loss? My mother is 50 years old this year and is a homemaker. She has a balanced diet without significant deviations in the quantity and variety of food. She frequently takes pain relievers or receives pain injections. Over the past month, her weight has decrea...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello, in response to your question: 1. Weight loss is a symptom rather than a disease, and there is no definitive definition. Generally, unintentional weight loss is considered to be a decrease of more than 5% of body weight (or 4.5 kg) within six months, without any specific i...[Read More] Unexplained Weight Loss in Middle-Aged Women: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Elevated MCV: Should You See a Doctor?
Regarding red blood cell volume? Hello: My recent health check report shows that my MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) is 100 (highlighted in red), while the normal range is 79-99 fL. Should I seek medical attention for this?
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions, 1. Generally, the overall assessment of a health check report will provide recommendations based on a comprehensive evaluation of the report's contents. Please follow the suggestions of the examining physician. 2. An elevated MCV (Mean C...[Read More] Understanding Elevated MCV: Should You See a Doctor?
Understanding Growth Disorders: Is It Pituitary Dwarfism?
Regarding height? Hello Dr. Yang, I would like to ask about a male who is under 150 cm tall and has not developed any secondary sexual characteristics or experienced voice changes, resembling a child. Does this condition qualify as pituitary dwarfism? Can he apply for a disabilit...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
You can schedule an appointment at the metabolism clinic to check for any endocrine disorders, as there could be several possible causes.[Read More] Understanding Growth Disorders: Is It Pituitary Dwarfism?
Can Men Under 150 cm Height Apply for Disability Card?
Regarding height? Dear Dr. Yang, I would like to inquire about a male individual who is under 150 cm tall and received a Class D rating during military service physical examination. He has not developed any secondary sexual characteristics and has not experienced voice changes,...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
You can schedule an appointment at the metabolism clinic to check for endocrine disorders, as there could be several possible causes.[Read More] Can Men Under 150 cm Height Apply for Disability Card?