Understanding Hypokalemia: Do You Need Ongoing Medical Follow-Up?
Hypokalemia issues? I previously went to the emergency room due to symptoms of hypokalemia, as I was feeling dizzy to the point of fainting. It was later confirmed that I had hypokalemia, and during my observation in the emergency department, my potassium level was replenished to...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question. 1. Symptoms of hypokalemia can be quite mild, but if serum potassium levels fall below 3 mEq/L, emergency symptoms such as muscle weakness, paralysis, hypotension, cramps, rhabdomyolysis, and respiratory failure may occur. 2. The causes genera...[Read More] Understanding Hypokalemia: Do You Need Ongoing Medical Follow-Up?
Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Hyperthyroidism Hello Dr. Yang: I discovered symptoms of hyperthyroidism nearly six months ago. I have reduced my medication from two pills a day to one and a half pills a day, and my thyroid hormone levels have returned to normal a month ago. However, I have two questions for yo...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: 1. If the dosage is not reduced, it may lead to hypothyroidism. 2. The likelihood of significant hyperthyroidism has been low for a long time.[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Can Hyperthyroidism Be Prevented? Key Insights for Patients
Is hyperthyroidism preventable? Hello Dr. Yang: Thank you for your previous response. (I had a blood test for thyroid function: T3 and T4 are normal, but TSH is low at 0.01.) I am clinically diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, and it is possible that it may recur in the future. I wou...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: Consuming foods high in iodine (such as seaweed and kelp) can be a potential trigger factor and should be avoided. Other factors are related to the disease itself, and currently, there are no specific methods to address this.[Read More] Can Hyperthyroidism Be Prevented? Key Insights for Patients
Understanding Low TSH Levels: Implications and Treatment Options
Low TSH levels? Hello Dr. Yang, About five years ago, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and after three months of medication, I developed hypothyroidism. I promptly reduced my medication dosage and continued taking the medication for another three months, after which my docto...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: Normal T3 and T4 levels with a decrease in TSH indicate clinical hyperthyroidism. There is a possibility that hyperthyroidism may recur after some time, so monitoring is necessary. Currently, medication treatment may not be required.[Read More] Understanding Low TSH Levels: Implications and Treatment Options
Understanding Behçet's Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
What is Behçet's disease? My mother is currently 48 years old, but she often feels unwell due to some stress. Eight years ago, she developed a stress-related ulcer and gastrointestinal bleeding. Two to three years ago, she was diagnosed with degenerative arthritis and has be...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: There are several types of hyperthyroidism, with the most common being an autoimmune reaction disease. Graves' disease is also an autoimmune disorder, and there may be some correlation between the two.[Read More] Understanding Behçet's Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Thyroid Eye Disease vs. Myasthenia Gravis: Understanding Eyelid Drooping
Hyperthyroidism can cause left eyelid ptosis and diplopia? In May of this year, I experienced difficulty focusing my eyes. After an examination at Veterans General Hospital, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. Following treatment, my hyperthyroidism showed significant improveme...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: Hyperthyroidism may be associated with myasthenia gravis, and if the diagnostic criteria for myasthenia gravis are met, a diagnosis of myasthenia gravis can be made. Hyperthyroidism is less likely to cause ptosis.[Read More] Thyroid Eye Disease vs. Myasthenia Gravis: Understanding Eyelid Drooping
Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Impact
Questions about hyperthyroidism? I have been aware of my thyroid abnormality for 11 years, characterized by a goiter. Eleven years ago, my thyroid tests were normal, and I was advised to have regular follow-ups. However, in recent years, my neck has become increasingly swollen, a...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: In this situation, medication typically needs to be used long-term, and it may even be required for a lifetime. The treatment effect on thyroid enlargement may not be very effective. Surgery is hoped to provide a permanent solution. Additionally, you may discuss the possib...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Impact
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
Dietary Recommendations for Managing Hyperthyroidism in Elderly Patients
80-year-old patient with hyperthyroidism? Hello, my father is an 80-year-old patient with hyperthyroidism. Do you have any dietary recommendations for elderly patients like him? I only know that he should avoid foods high in iodine, such as kelp, seaweed, and seafood, but I'...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello Vicky: The principle for managing hyperthyroidism is to reduce iodine intake. Foods that are highest in iodine include seaweed and kelp, so it is best to minimize their consumption. Other various foods also contain some iodine, but if restrictions are too strict, it can sev...[Read More] Dietary Recommendations for Managing Hyperthyroidism in Elderly Patients
Feeling of a Foreign Body When Swallowing: Causes and Solutions
Feeling of a foreign body sensation when swallowing saliva? Hello Dr. Zhong, I started having gastroscopies about three years ago, and the results showed chronic gastritis and esophagitis. The doctor mentioned that my esophagitis was due to excessive gastric acid reflux. After ...
Dr. Zhong Weisheng Reply:
Kelly: Hello, regarding the sensation of a foreign body when swallowing saliva, it is recommended to consult an "Otolaryngologist" to examine the nasopharynx and oropharynx for any abnormalities. If there are no issues, you may then see a Gastroenterologist for an esoph...[Read More] Feeling of a Foreign Body When Swallowing: Causes and Solutions
Managing Diet for Hypertension and Diabetes: Can You Eat Sweet Potatoes and Corn?
The patient has experienced significant weight loss over the past six months, but despite eating a lot, they do not feel full? Patients with hypertension and diabetes who are currently on medication should pay attention to the following dietary considerations: 1. **Limit Sodium ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. There are many reasons for weight loss, with common causes including diabetes, hyperthyroidism, cancer, and other diseases. Among these, cancer predominantly involves gastrointestinal disorders. 2. The dietary management for hypertensi...[Read More] Managing Diet for Hypertension and Diabetes: Can You Eat Sweet Potatoes and Corn?
Understanding Thyroid-Related Exophthalmos: Can It Affect One Eye?
Exophthalmos caused by thyroid dysfunction? I heard that hyperthyroidism can cause bulging eyes, but is it possible for only one eye to bulge? If the bulging eyes are caused by thyroid issues, is there a chance that they can return to their original appearance after treatment?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Thyroid eye disease caused by hyperthyroidism primarily affects both eyes, although it can occasionally occur in just one eye. When the hyperthyroidism is effectively treated, the condition of the eyes does not necessarily improve.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid-Related Exophthalmos: Can It Affect One Eye?
Understanding Potassium-Deficient Muscle Disorders in Hyperthyroidism
Hypokalemic myopathy caused by hyperthyroidism? Hello Doctor. I had a question on October 14, 2006, which you kindly answered, helping my mother and me feel less anxious about her condition. For the past four months, my mother has been consistently taking her medications (Methima...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
It is quite common in clinical practice for patients to exhibit a tendency towards hypothyroidism while on the same dosage of medication. Management may involve temporarily discontinuing the medication or reducing the dosage, but it is essential to monitor thyroid function to adj...[Read More] Understanding Potassium-Deficient Muscle Disorders in Hyperthyroidism
Can I Manage Hyperthyroidism Without Medication?
Is it possible to avoid taking medication? Hello doctor, I have a history of hyperthyroidism. I took medication for about two years, and it improved slightly, so I stopped the medication. However, recently I've been under a lot of work stress and staying up late every day, w...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
It is quite common for hyperthyroidism to relapse after discontinuation of medication, and there is no direct correlation with high work-related stress. If a relapse is confirmed, it is advisable to seek medical attention. There are several treatment options to consider, and life...[Read More] Can I Manage Hyperthyroidism Without Medication?
Is Weight Loss a Key Indicator of Diabetes Symptoms?
Symptoms of diabetes? Hello doctor, is weight loss an important indicator of diabetes? My friend noticed that I have increased thirst, excessive eating, and frequent urination (especially noticeable). One day, I recorded that I go to the bathroom every class (about once an hour),...
Dr. Shi Guangzhong Reply:
There are many reasons for abnormal weight loss. In addition to diabetes, conditions such as hyperthyroidism and malignant tumors should also be considered. You are 18 years old, and your body mass index (BMI) is 26.8 kg/m², which classifies you as overweight but not yet obese (B...[Read More] Is Weight Loss a Key Indicator of Diabetes Symptoms?
Managing Allergic Reactions After Thyroid Antibody Treatment: What to Do?
Is it possible to experience allergic reactions after taking thyroid antagonists? Hello Doctor: My mother recently discovered that she has thyroiditis. Following the doctor's instructions, she has avoided seafood and has been taking her medication on time, which has shown so...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: If you experience an allergic reaction while taking thyroid medication, you may consider using antihistamines initially. If the allergy issue persists and cannot be resolved, the medication should be discontinued, and alternative treatments for hyperthyroidism should be co...[Read More] Managing Allergic Reactions After Thyroid Antibody Treatment: What to Do?
Understanding Hyperthyroidism in Teenagers: A Parent's Guide
Regarding my daughter's hyperthyroidism! Hello, Doctor: My daughter had a slight swelling in her neck during a school health check, which raised concerns about hyperthyroidism. After a thorough examination at the hospital, it was concluded that there is indeed an enlargement...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: If there is only mild enlargement of the thyroid gland and thyroid function is normal, then it is sufficient to just monitor the condition without the need for treatment.[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism in Teenagers: A Parent's Guide
Managing Muscle Weakness from Hyperthyroidism-Induced Hypokalemia
Hypokalemic myopathy caused by hyperthyroidism? Hello: My mother suddenly became unable to stand last month and even had to rely completely on a wheelchair for mobility. After diagnosis, the doctor said it was a potassium-deficient myopathy caused by hyperthyroidism. Her initiall...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Patients with hyperthyroidism who undergo pharmacological treatment show a rapid decrease in T3 and T4 levels, while the recovery of TSH levels is slower. The difference between TSH levels of 0 and 0.008 should take into account the sensitivity of the assay, which may not be clin...[Read More] Managing Muscle Weakness from Hyperthyroidism-Induced Hypokalemia
Differentiating Plummer's Disease from Thyroiditis: A Patient's Guide
Plummer's disease and thyroiditis? How can I differentiate between thyroiditis and Plummer's disease? I discovered I had thyroid enlargement during a health check-up. In late May, I visited a doctor who tested my FT4 levels and said they were normal. An ultrasound indic...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Thyroid nodules associated with hyperthyroidism (Plummer's disease) can generally be treated with radioactive iodine or surgery. If the patient is unwilling to accept these options, medication treatment is also a viable alternative.[Read More] Differentiating Plummer's Disease from Thyroiditis: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Elevated TSH Levels: Causes, Treatment, and Precautions
Elevated TSH levels? Hello Doctor: My T3 and T4 levels are normal, but my TSH level is elevated. Does this indicate hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, and how should it be treated? What precautions should I take? Thank you.
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
There is a tendency towards hypothyroidism, and treatment is not currently necessary. It is advised to avoid high-iodine foods (such as nori and kelp) and to monitor thyroid function at regular intervals.[Read More] Understanding Elevated TSH Levels: Causes, Treatment, and Precautions