Does High Protein Intake Affect Urine Protein Tests?
Issues with consuming high-protein powder? Hello, doctor. I usually have a fitness routine and after working out, I consume high-protein supplements, about 100 grams of protein per day (I weigh 61 kg). I have a health check-up coming up and I would like to know if this will affec...
Dr. Yang Zhongwei Reply:
Hello: The average protein requirement is about 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. For a person weighing 60 kilograms, this amounts to approximately 70 grams of protein per day. In Taiwan, a normal three-meal diet typically provides sufficient protein. During exercise...[Read More] Does High Protein Intake Affect Urine Protein Tests?
Understanding Neck Swelling and High Uric Acid Levels: A Guide
I am experiencing some health issues? I recently experienced an unusual swelling in my neck, but it subsided after a few days. From the time I noticed it until it disappeared, it was approximately five days, although I'm not entirely sure of the exact duration since I am som...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
The term "goiter" generally refers to an enlargement of the thyroid gland. For issues related to high uric acid, you may consult a specialist in metabolic disorders. Additionally, if there are abnormalities in liver function, it is advisable to see a gastroenterologist ...[Read More] Understanding Neck Swelling and High Uric Acid Levels: A Guide
Understanding Kidney Aging: What You Need to Know
The kidneys are showing signs of aging? Hello, I had a health check-up at Changhua Show Chwan Hospital yesterday, and during the abdominal ultrasound, it was found that my kidneys show some signs of aging. What should I do about this?
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
"During a health check-up, an abdominal ultrasound revealed slight aging of the kidneys." The physician likely observed increased echogenicity in the images and recommended blood tests to assess kidney function and urinalysis for further clarification.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Aging: What You Need to Know
Should You See a Doctor for Abnormal Carbon-13 Test Results?
Should I go to the clinic for abnormal carbon-13 testing? Our company recently conducted health check-ups, and the results of the carbon-13 test were abnormal (along with elevated cholesterol and creatine kinase levels)! I researched a lot online and found that an abnormal carbon...
Dr. Sun Yizhen Reply:
Hello: You may consider undergoing an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy for further evaluation to determine if eradication therapy is necessary.[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for Abnormal Carbon-13 Test Results?
Managing High Albumin and Liver Enzymes: Dietary Tips for Better Health
Biochemical test issues? Hello doctor, I have undergone a health check-up. In the biochemical tests over the past 2-3 years, my albumin level was 5.8, which is slightly high, and my GOT was 40 and GPT was 59, both of which are elevated. I would like to know what I should pay atte...
Dr. Yao Quan Reply:
It is best to first determine whether there is chronic viral hepatitis or fatty liver to identify the cause of elevated liver enzymes, and then treat accordingly. If it is viral hepatitis, dietary changes may have limited benefits, but if it is fatty liver, one should avoid high-...[Read More] Managing High Albumin and Liver Enzymes: Dietary Tips for Better Health
Understanding Nighttime Stomach Pain: Causes and Solutions
Regarding the recent issue of experiencing abdominal pain before bedtime? I would like to ask the doctor about my father. Recently, he has been experiencing a sharp pain in his stomach while sleeping. He used to take antacids regularly, but he has reduced that habit. Additionally...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to address your question and provide the following advice: The combination of stomach pain and a burning sensation in the chest may indicate a gastrointestinal condition associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ...[Read More] Understanding Nighttime Stomach Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Impact of Illness and Sleep on Results
Elevated blood sugar levels? I previously had a health check-up where my fasting blood sugar was 100, and I was advised to undergo a glucose tolerance test. The results showed a fasting blood sugar of 105 (which the doctor said is normal) and a postprandial blood sugar of 136 (wi...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello, I would like to respond as follows: 1. A fasting plasma glucose level between 100-125 mg/dL is referred to as impaired fasting glucose; a two-hour plasma glucose level between 140-199 mg/dL during an oral glucose tolerance test is referred to as impaired glucose toleranc...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Impact of Illness and Sleep on Results
Should You Check Post-Meal Blood Sugar If Fasting Levels Are Normal?
If the fasting blood glucose levels are normal, is it necessary to also measure postprandial blood glucose? Dr. Chen: Hello! I would like to ask you a few questions. 1. During my company's health check-up, my fasting blood glucose was 83 mg/dL, but I heard that fasting blo...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
1. Fasting blood glucose is 83, no diabetes, regular check-ups are sufficient. 2. Cholesterol-lowering medication should only be taken if necessary; it's best to consult your attending physician directly.[Read More] Should You Check Post-Meal Blood Sugar If Fasting Levels Are Normal?
Understanding BUN and CREA: Interpreting Kidney Function Test Results
BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) & CREA (Creatinine) Hello, doctor. On December 21st of last year, a private hospital in Kaohsiung came to our company to conduct health check-ups, which cost a total of 4,000 NTD. A few days later, the report came out, showing my BUN at 30 mg/dL and ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Each hospital has different standard values; it is unclear whether the first private hospital informed you of its normal values. 2. If the re-examination at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital shows normal results, then there should be no issue. 3. If you are still concerned...[Read More] Understanding BUN and CREA: Interpreting Kidney Function Test Results
Understanding Sudden Dizziness and Balance Loss: Possible Causes
Sometimes I suddenly feel dizzy and lose my balance? Doctor, I have normal values in my health check-up, but sometimes I suddenly feel dizzy and lose my balance. What could be the reasons for this phenomenon? Thank you!
Dr. Wang Fangli Reply:
Hello Paul, the most common cause is inner ear imbalance (Meniere's disease). If accompanied by palpitations and chest tightness, it may indicate cardiac dysfunction leading to cerebral ischemia, and further cardiac evaluation is necessary. 97.03.04 Wang Fangli[Read More] Understanding Sudden Dizziness and Balance Loss: Possible Causes
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...[Read More] Do I Need a Glucose Tolerance Test with Stable Blood Sugar Levels?
Understanding Chest Pain and Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Help
Chest tightness and chest pain? Hello Dr. Lee, last July, after exercising one morning, I drank a lot of ice water because it was very hot. A day later, I started to feel pain and tightness in my chest, as if something was stuck in my throat, and I also experienced difficulty bre...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Based on your symptoms, it is possible that there is an issue with the esophagus, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) leading to esophagitis. I recommend that you first consult a family physician or directly see a gastroenterologist. If necessary, an upper gastrointest...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Help
Should I Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine If My HBsAg is Negative?
Should I get the hepatitis B vaccine? Hello, doctor: Today I received my health check-up report, and my Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test result is negative. What does this mean? Does it mean I should get vaccinated?
Dr. Xiao Jingqin Reply:
HBsAg negative for hepatitis B surface antigen indicates that the individual is not a carrier of hepatitis B. Regarding the administration of the hepatitis B vaccine, it is recommended to test for Anti-HBs (hepatitis B surface antibodies). If the result is negative, vaccination c...[Read More] Should I Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine If My HBsAg is Negative?
Understanding Right Atrial Enlargement and Sinus Tachycardia in Teens
Questions regarding health check-up reports? Hello Doctor: My sister just started her first year of high school this year, and recently the school arranged for a health check-up. The report indicated that my sister has right atrial enlargement and sinus tachycardia. I would like ...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Right atrial enlargement and sinus tachycardia in your sister should be considered normal, especially if she has a slender, flat upper body. During examinations, right atrial enlargement is often observed, and it is common for both adolescent males and females to experience a fas...[Read More] Understanding Right Atrial Enlargement and Sinus Tachycardia in Teens
Understanding Edema: Which Specialist to Consult and Testing Tips
Symptoms of edema? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you... 1. Recently, I went for a health check-up at the hospital, and the doctor mentioned that I have edema. I researched some information online and learned that there are many causes of edema. Before confirming the cause of...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. The causes of edema involve organs such as the kidneys, heart, and liver, so a nephrology evaluation should be considered first. 2. If a urine test is required, it is advisable to avoid the menstrual period.[Read More] Understanding Edema: Which Specialist to Consult and Testing Tips
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...[Read More] Understanding Triglycerides: The Impact of Sashimi and Lifestyle Choices
Understanding Blood Test Results: Cholesterol, Gout, and Follow-Up Care
Blood draw issues? Hello, on May 19th, I had a health check-up, and the blood test report showed some concerning results: total cholesterol 125, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) 39, urine pH 7, and a positive reaction for occult blood. Does this indicate a risk for cardiovascular d...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. The essence of a health check-up is to screen for specific diseases or issues through certain tests or examinations, and if necessary, to conduct further evaluations or diagnoses. 2. Your total cholesterol level is 125 mg/dL, and your high...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Cholesterol, Gout, and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Recurrent Fever: Causes and Concerns in Adults
High fever Hello Doctor: Two years ago, on October 10th, while I was walking with a friend after visiting a night market, I started to feel pain in the back of my head, which then radiated to my back. Generally, I experience pain in the back of my head when I am very tired, but i...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello Nancy: 1. The fever and headache on October 10, 2005, may indicate a viral infection, possibly even symptoms of a central nervous system infection. After treatment (such as intravenous fluids and medication), the white blood cell count quickly rose from over 1000 to 4000,...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Fever: Causes and Concerns in Adults
Understanding Hematuria: Kidney Health Concerns and Solutions
Hematuria Hello. My husband recently had a health check-up and found issues with hematuria and proteinuria. Could this indicate a problem with his kidneys? Is this situation considered serious? Could it lead to kidney deficiency? Is there a way to improve this condition?
Dr. Yao Quan Reply:
Hello, the source of hematuria can originate from any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. As for the proteins found in proteinuria, they must originate from the kidneys. Therefore, if hematuria is accompanied by proteinuria, it typical...[Read More] Understanding Hematuria: Kidney Health Concerns and Solutions
Understanding High Triglycerides: Causes and Health Implications
Triglycerides Hello Dr. Wang, I would like to ask you about my recent health check-up report. It shows that my triglyceride level is 226, which indicates that it is elevated (the normal range is 30-200 mg/dL). I am concerned if there might be an issue with my body. Could you pl...
Dr. Wang Fangli Reply:
Hello, Xiao Fen: Triglycerides are the same as neutral fats. The primary source of triglycerides is carbohydrates. Therefore, if you have eaten a large meal or have been overeating, consuming sweets, being overweight, or not exercising in the days leading up to a blood test, it i...[Read More] Understanding High Triglycerides: Causes and Health Implications