Understanding Hypokalemia: Causes and Kidney Health Concerns
Hypokalemia issues? Hello, Doctor. In December, my blood test showed a potassium level of 3.3. I did not have diarrhea or vomiting, nor did I use diuretics. The doctor prescribed Slow-K BID for three weeks, and when I was re-evaluated in early February, my potassium level had dro...
Dr. Lin Shunfa Reply:
Hello Mimi: 1. It seems that you are quite aware of the possible causes of hypokalemia. The main causes can be summarized as follows: a. Gastrointestinal losses, which are the most common. b. Renal losses due to certain complications of diabetes, autoimmune diseases, hi...[Read More] Understanding Hypokalemia: Causes and Kidney Health Concerns
Understanding Darkening of Fingertips: Causes and Concerns
Fingers turning black? Hello Doctor: My father's fingers (both thumbs and the left ring finger) have recently started to turn black from the area where the nail meets the skin, spreading from the inside out. The affected area is not very large and has started to extend upwar...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Dear Ms. Hsu, Your father's finger issue may be due to subungual hematoma, microvascular problems, or other causes. It is recommended that he return to the physician who originally treated his hypertension to inform them of this symptom. After the original physician evaluat...[Read More] Understanding Darkening of Fingertips: Causes and Concerns
Is Alkaline Ionized Water Safe? Debunking Myths and Health Risks
Questions regarding commercially available alkaline ionized water? Hello, doctor. There are many products on the market labeled as "alkaline ionized water" that claim to adjust the body's pH balance. I would like to know if this is true. I previously saw news repor...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry. Here is my response to your question along with some recommendations: It is advisable to boil drinking water before consumption. Regarding hypertension and diabetes, since there is a family history, it is recommended to control weight and f...[Read More] Is Alkaline Ionized Water Safe? Debunking Myths and Health Risks
Can My Mother with Hyperthyroidism and High Blood Pressure Take Fish Oil?
Issues with Fish Oil Consumption My mother has hyperthyroidism (she is currently on medication for control) and high blood pressure. Can she take fish oil supplements?
Dr. Lü Jing Reply:
In general, individuals with hyperthyroidism should limit their intake of iodine-rich foods, so fish should be permissible. However, there are claims that seafood should also be consumed in moderation. If fish oil does not contain iodine, it should be acceptable.[Read More] Can My Mother with Hyperthyroidism and High Blood Pressure Take Fish Oil?
Managing Kidney Health: Understanding Diet and Function in Patients
Kidney disease management Hello Dr. Yang, I have a smaller left kidney (congenital, not due to atrophy) and during winter, I experience high blood pressure, increased urination, and nocturia. After visiting the hospital for follow-up examinations, my kidney function has remaine...
Dr. Yang Zhongwei Reply:
Hello: 1. Frequent urination (is it the frequency or the volume?) and nocturia are not necessarily indicative of kidney problems; it is advisable to consult a urologist to examine the bladder. 2. There is currently insufficient evidence to determine the effectiveness of a low-pro...[Read More] Managing Kidney Health: Understanding Diet and Function in Patients
Managing Essential Hypertension: Medication, Diet, and Lifestyle Tips
Essential hypertension Hello Dr. Yang, My boyfriend recently went to the emergency room due to high blood pressure exceeding 170. He has a hereditary form of essential hypertension. Does this mean he will need to take medication for life? He was diagnosed early on, and his usual...
Dr. Yang Zhongwei Reply:
Hello: 1. The target blood pressure for patients with hypertension is below 140/90 mmHg, while for patients with diabetes or chronic kidney disease, the target blood pressure is more stringent: below 130/80 mmHg. 2. Non-pharmacological management of hypertension includes: (1) ach...[Read More] Managing Essential Hypertension: Medication, Diet, and Lifestyle Tips
Dietary Considerations for Patients on Anticoagulants and Hypertension Medications
Anticoagulant medications and hypertension? My father is taking anticoagulant medication and antihypertensive medication. Although I didn't accompany him, I would like to know what dietary considerations he should be aware of while taking these two types of medications, such...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Taking warfarin will inhibit blood coagulation. If surgery or tooth extraction is necessary, the medication should be discontinued one week prior. In terms of diet, a generally healthy and balanced diet is sufficient.[Read More] Dietary Considerations for Patients on Anticoagulants and Hypertension Medications
Understanding Chronic Neck Stiffness: Causes and Solutions
Frequent neck stiffness? Frequent neck stiffness and habitual head shaking can be caused by several factors, including muscle tension, poor posture, stress, or underlying medical conditions such as cervical spondylosis or myofascial pain syndrome. To address these issues, conside...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Stiffness in the neck may be caused by spinal issues, muscle problems, or even high blood pressure. Please pay attention to whether your blood pressure is elevated, if your pillow is unsuitable, or if you are using the computer excessively. It is recommended to consult with a reh...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Neck Stiffness: Causes and Solutions
Managing Mildly Elevated Low Blood Pressure: Links to Obesity and Fatty Liver
Mildly elevated low blood pressure? 1. How to manage slightly elevated low blood pressure? 2. Is it related to obesity and fatty liver?
Dr. Zhong Weisheng Reply:
The low blood pressure you mentioned likely refers to elevated diastolic pressure, which is also a form of hypertension. According to the JNC VII (the seventh report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure), the c...[Read More] Managing Mildly Elevated Low Blood Pressure: Links to Obesity and Fatty Liver
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...[Read More] Diabetes and Hypertension: Dietary Tips for Busy Eaters
Managing High Blood Pressure: When to Consult a Doctor and Monitoring Tips
Hypertension Hello, 1. My father is 58 years old and has high blood pressure and elevated blood sugar, but he does not have diabetes yet. He is currently on medication, and his blood pressure has been maintained at around 140/70. However, it has recently risen to 180/80, althou...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello CHI: Your father's blood pressure is unstable. It is best to visit his original physician and provide them with the blood pressure log for reference. There is no limit to how many times blood pressure should be measured; ideally, it should be taken 2 to 4 times a day.[Read More] Managing High Blood Pressure: When to Consult a Doctor and Monitoring Tips
Managing Kidney Cysts: Health Tips for a 57-Year-Old Woman
Renal cysts Hello Dr. Wu, I would like to ask you a question. My mother is 57 years old, and there is no history of kidney-related hereditary issues in our family. About two years ago, she underwent a kidney ultrasound, and the doctor informed her that there were small cysts in ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. First, confirm the number of cysts; if there are more than three on each side, consider the possibility of polycystic kidney disease and regular follow-up is necessary. If there is only a single cyst on one side, it is likely a degenerative cyst, and only observation is requir...[Read More] Managing Kidney Cysts: Health Tips for a 57-Year-Old Woman
Understanding Thyroid Antibodies: Symptoms, Exercise, and Health Tips
Question I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism about six months ago. I discovered it when I noticed severe swelling in my legs after standing for too long; pressing on my legs left a significant indentation. My thyroid antibody levels have been steadily increasing from 45 to 52. M...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: Hyperthyroidism may cause patients to feel easily anxious and excited. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism typically show significant improvement within 1 to 2 months after treatment begins, and there should be no specific restrictions in daily life.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Antibodies: Symptoms, Exercise, and Health Tips
How to Lower Your Blood Pressure: Tips for Managing 140 mmHg Systolic
Blood pressure If your systolic blood pressure is 140, here are some ways to improve it: 1. **Dietary Changes**: Adopt a heart-healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reduce sodium intake and limit processed foods. 2. **Regular ...
Dr. Zhong Weisheng Reply:
Dear Xiao Ming: According to the Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC 7) in the United States, hypertension is defined as having two or more resting blood pressure measurements greater than ...[Read More] How to Lower Your Blood Pressure: Tips for Managing 140 mmHg Systolic
Understanding Low Albumin Levels: Causes, Management, and Dietary Tips
Hypoalbuminemia Hello Doctor: My mother recently experienced swelling in her legs. A blood test revealed low albumin levels, with a value of 2.8, while the normal range is 3.8 to 5.4. My mother also has diabetes and is taking medication for high blood pressure. What could be the ...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello, the causes of low albumin levels can be numerous, including malnutrition, liver cirrhosis, and kidney disease. It is best to visit a hospital for a thorough examination and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Low Albumin Levels: Causes, Management, and Dietary Tips
Understanding Severe Palpitations: Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
Severe palpitations? I apologize! Recently, I often feel a strong heartbeat, and there is a sharp pain in the lower left side of my heart. The back of my head also experiences sharp pain that is truly unbearable. It has been occurring more frequently. In previous health check-ups...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
You need to go to the hospital for an electrocardiogram (ECG) and thyroid function tests.[Read More] Understanding Severe Palpitations: Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
Understanding the Benefits of Red Sweet Potato Leaf Soup for Hypertension
Dietary Management of Hypertension Dr. Hollo Tsai: 1. My mother's blood pressure has been close to 200 for many years, approximately ten years, and she is currently 53 years old. 2. She recently started taking antihypertensive medication - Prazosin, but she is afraid to meas...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Dr. Andy Sun's Dietary Therapy for Hypertension to Prevent Stroke Hypertension is a common chronic disease in Taiwan, with early symptoms typically including dizziness, headaches, palpitations, insomnia, anxiety, irritability, and fatigue. The appearance of later symptoms d...[Read More] Understanding the Benefits of Red Sweet Potato Leaf Soup for Hypertension
Understanding High Blood Pressure and Menopause Symptoms in Women
Please consult a doctor? Hello Doctor: My mother is 54 years old and has consistently high blood pressure. She often experiences a sensation of heat throughout her body, tightness in her shoulders, and her cheeks feel tight every evening around 5 or 6 PM. Could this be a symptom ...
Dr. Xie Yonghui Reply:
Dear Mr. Ahong, According to your letter, your mother's blood pressure is very high, and she should be taking antihypertensive medication. There are various types of antihypertensive drugs, some of which can cause side effects such as facial flushing and generalized warmth....[Read More] Understanding High Blood Pressure and Menopause Symptoms in Women
Managing High Blood Pressure and Muscle Tension in Middle-Aged Patients
Inquiry about certain symptoms? Hello Doctor: My mother is nearly 54 years old, has high blood pressure, often experiences tightness in her shoulders, and her cheeks feel tight every afternoon. She also experiences a sensation of heat throughout her body. She has seen several doc...
Dr. Xie Yonghui Reply:
Dear Mr. Ahong, According to your letter, your mother's blood pressure is very high, and she should be taking antihypertensive medications, which come in various types. Some of these medications can cause side effects such as facial flushing and generalized warmth. Therefor...[Read More] Managing High Blood Pressure and Muscle Tension in Middle-Aged Patients
Can Kidney Patients Travel Abroad? Essential Tips for Safe Trips
Can kidney patients travel abroad? The father underwent dialysis for 7 years starting in 1986 and received a kidney transplant in 1994, which has lasted for 13 years. Since November of last year, he has begun to show signs of rejection, with current lab results indicating a BUN o...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Whether or not to travel abroad should be based on the patient's physical condition. Adequate medication preparation is essential before the trip (such as antihypertensive medications for high blood pressure, calcium supplements, potassium-lowering powder, etc.). Strict d...[Read More] Can Kidney Patients Travel Abroad? Essential Tips for Safe Trips