Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis Results: What They Mean for Your Health
In the health check report I recently had a health check-up, and there were several abnormal findings in my urine report. I would like the physician to clarify the following: (1) My specific gravity was 1.031, which is elevated, as the reference range is 1.015 to 1.030. (2) The q...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions, three issues were raised: First, the elevated urine specific gravity may be caused by urine concentration; second, the presence of a positive protein reaction could indicate kidney disease or a transient response during a urinary tract infect...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis Results: What They Mean for Your Health
Understanding Bitter Taste in the Mouth: Causes and Solutions
Tongue issues? Recently, I've been experiencing a bitter taste in my mouth and the food I eat also tastes bitter. I'm not sure what the cause is or which medical specialty I should consult. Could you please help me with this? Thank you.
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hello, Yu-Ching. In addition to taste buds and neural conduction, abnormalities in endocrine function and liver function can also cause such issues. It is recommended to consult a family medicine specialist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Bitter Taste in the Mouth: Causes and Solutions
Managing High Cholesterol: Alternatives to Statins Without Liver Impact
Taking lipid-lowering medications can cause liver inflammation? Hello Dr. Ke: I have high triglycerides (360) and cholesterol (255), and I have been taking a lipid-lowering medication, LIPITOR (atorvastatin) 10 mg, one tablet daily for three months. After a follow-up test, my tri...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
If you do not have risk factors for cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension or diabetes, a cholesterol level below 240 is acceptable. If your triglycerides are high but your high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is not below 40, treatment may not be necessary. You can initially man...[Read More] Managing High Cholesterol: Alternatives to Statins Without Liver Impact
Understanding Kidney Function: Key Concerns and Management Strategies
Renal function index Hello Dr. Yang, Due to having urinary tract stones in my youth, I have not noticed for a long time that my left kidney has become swollen. My creatinine level is currently 1.5, and my urine protein level is about 190, for which I am taking medication for co...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the presence of protein in urine and a creatinine level greater than 1.4 are indicators of impaired kidney function, which must be managed under the guidance of a nephrologist regarding medication and dietary treatment. Kidney function may dec...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function: Key Concerns and Management Strategies
Understanding Rough Liver Surface: Implications and Next Steps
Rough surface of the liver? I underwent an ultrasound examination which showed a rough liver surface, but my liver function tests were normal. The doctor ordered additional blood tests to check "if my immune system is attacking my liver," but those results also came bac...
Dr. Chen Jingwen Reply:
1. The ultrasound examination shows a rough liver surface, which may indicate the presence of parenchymal liver disease. However, due to the subjective nature of the operator's assessment, this does not necessarily imply a problem. It is essential to consider other laborator...[Read More] Understanding Rough Liver Surface: Implications and Next Steps
Understanding Leg Indentation: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
It will indent when pressed? Hello, doctor. My mother is 41 years old, weighs 60 kg, and is 165 cm tall. She has a history of chronic gastritis and allergic rhinitis, and she often suffers from migraines. In recent months, she has noticed that when she presses down on her calves,...
Dr. Chen Fuquan Reply:
Dear Mr. Ku, As you mentioned, your aunt has been experiencing noticeable edema in her lower legs and feelings of fatigue over the past few months. I have a few questions regarding her condition: 1. **Liver Issues**: Has your aunt been a carrier of Hepatitis B or C for many yea...[Read More] Understanding Leg Indentation: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Nausea: Is It a Sign of Gastrointestinal Issues?
Often feel nauseous? Doctor, I used to never feel nauseous when eating, and I'm not pregnant. However, in recent months, I've occasionally felt nauseous after eating, and sometimes I even vomit. I'm not sure if it's because I've eaten food that wasn'...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
Persistent nausea or vomiting should prompt consideration of hepatitis, gastrointestinal ulcers, bacterial or parasitic infections in the intestines, food allergies, the use of specific medications, chronic alcoholism, and prior chemotherapy or radiation therapy due to cancer. If...[Read More] Understanding Nausea: Is It a Sign of Gastrointestinal Issues?
Understanding Skin Bumps: Are They Linked to Liver Health?
I'm sorry, but I need more context to provide an accurate translation. Could you please provide additional information or clarify your request? Hello Dr. Zhao, I have recently developed some bumps on my forehead, and there's just a small one on my right cheek. I read i...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
The liver is a detoxifying organ, so poor liver function can lead to the circulation of toxic substances in the bloodstream. The skin contains many tiny blood vessels, and when harmful substances circulate in the blood, they can cause various changes in the skin, such as roughnes...[Read More] Understanding Skin Bumps: Are They Linked to Liver Health?
Overcoming Chronic Fatigue and Chest Discomfort: A Guide to Relief
Generalized fatigue and chest tightness? I have been feeling fatigued and weak for three months, and walking is exhausting (my weight is normal). I exercise 4-5 times a month and experience chest tightness along with occasional tinnitus. Drinking coffee to boost my energy results...
Dr. Lin Benpei Reply:
1. You need to adjust your lifestyle rhythm and relieve mental stress; engaging in aerobic exercise can be beneficial. 2. If there is improvement, it should be maintained consistently. 3. If there is no improvement, further treatment in relevant specialties should be pursued.[Read More] Overcoming Chronic Fatigue and Chest Discomfort: A Guide to Relief
Effective Treatment and Prevention Strategies for Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C If it is known that one has hepatitis C, how should it be treated and what measures can be taken to prevent it from progressing to chronic hepatitis?
Dr. Chen Jingwen Reply:
Infection with hepatitis C can lead to chronic hepatitis in about half of the cases. These individuals have a risk of developing cirrhosis or liver cancer after several years. Therefore, once diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C, it is essential to monitor liver function (GOT, GPT)...[Read More] Effective Treatment and Prevention Strategies for Hepatitis C
Understanding Abnormal Liver Function: Hepatitis B Treatment Options and Concerns
Abnormal liver function Hello Dr. Chen, I have some questions regarding my hepatitis issue. Recently, I had a liver function test (GOT and GPT) at a local hospital, and the doctor found that my liver function is poor, with my levels being quite high, around 270. I am a carrier of...
Dr. Chen Jingwen Reply:
1. There are specific criteria for antiviral treatment of chronic hepatitis B; please consult the Department of Hepatology at our hospital, Dr. Huang Mao-Sen, Dr. Chang Yu-Ting, or Dr. Liang Chia-Te. 2. Chronic hepatitis B does not pose an immediate life-threatening risk; it is i...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Liver Function: Hepatitis B Treatment Options and Concerns
Frequent Urination and Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Frequent urination, abdominal pain? Hello Doctor: In the past one to two years, I have noticeably experienced an increase in the frequency of urination. Whenever I consume any liquid food or beverages, I need to use the restroom two to four times within one to two hours. Addition...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the phenomenon of frequent urination mentioned in your message should first consider the possibility of a urinary tract infection. It is advisable to visit a nephrology clinic for examination to confirm the diagnosis. Regarding the issue of lo...[Read More] Frequent Urination and Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: Treatment and Risks Explained
Hemangioma of the liver Hello, my uncle (43 years old) had a health check-up and was found to have three hemangiomas on his liver. The doctors in China said they would only treat him if the tumors grow to five centimeters. I would like to ask if this condition is a type of liver ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hemangiomas on ultrasound (sonography) typically present with high echogenicity in 80% of cases. However, if the patient has a history of hepatitis B or C, the presence of a liver tumor should not be assumed to be a benign hemangioma, as this could lead to a misjudgment of the co...[Read More] Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: Treatment and Risks Explained
Understanding Body Symptoms: Discomfort Under the Rib and Beer Belly Solutions
Physical symptoms Hello! I would like to ask about some symptoms I'm experiencing. Please help me, doctor... I feel discomfort just below the left rib cage when I eat a little more or sit for a long time. It feels like something is being compressed or like something is swell...
Dr. Chen Jingwen Reply:
1. Based on your description, the bloating in the upper left abdomen seems to be related to a gastric issue, and if it occurs more frequently, you should undergo an endoscopy. 2. Long-term alcohol consumption leading to subcutaneous fat accumulation in the abdomen is the cause of...[Read More] Understanding Body Symptoms: Discomfort Under the Rib and Beer Belly Solutions
Understanding Kidney Health: Key Lab Values for Patients with Kidney Transplants
Please assist the director and colleagues. Thank you! (Forwarded from the director's mailbox) Hello Director and colleagues, I would like to inquire about my mother's condition as she is a kidney transplant patient and needs to frequently visit the Chang Gung Urology ...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, your mother is undergoing kidney transplantation due to uremia and requires regular outpatient follow-up and treatment. Regarding the biochemical tests mentioned in your correspondence, here is an explanation: 1. GLU: Glucose 2. BUN: Blood Ure...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Health: Key Lab Values for Patients with Kidney Transplants
Understanding Leg Indentation: Signs of Kidney Issues and Other Causes
The calf sinks when pressure is applied? Hello doctor, I have been feeling fatigued lately, and when I press down on my calves, they seem to indent as if it could be a sign of kidney disease. Are there other possible causes for this? Could you please provide some examples and sug...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the document mentions that there is a pitting edema in the lower extremities, which is a manifestation of edema. There are many causes for lower extremity edema, including (1) kidney diseases - such as proteinuria or nephrotic syndrome. (2) He...[Read More] Understanding Leg Indentation: Signs of Kidney Issues and Other Causes
Understanding Excessive Urine Bubbles: Causes and Concerns
There are many bubbles in the urine? Hello Dr. Yang, I would like to ask you a question. I have noticed that there are a lot of bubbles in the toilet when I urinate, and the same thing happens at night. Last month, I had a blood test, and my albumin level was slightly low (38)....
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question: Kidney disease can lead to proteinuria, which is clinically observed as increased foamy urine. If the condition is severe, it can result in low albumin levels, along with elevated cholesterol and edema, which can be diagnosed as nephrotic synd...[Read More] Understanding Excessive Urine Bubbles: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Tuberculosis Treatment: Insights from Dr. Ko in Taiwan
Taiwan e-Hospital - Internal Medicine / Dr. Ke Dear Dr. Ke Cheng-Chang, I apologize for reaching out via email; I should have visited you in person, but my work schedule during the day makes it inconvenient. I hope you can understand. My father is Mr. Wang Jin-Can, and I believe...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
1. Tuberculosis medications may cause nausea, liver function abnormalities, and skin allergies, so liver function monitoring is necessary. If any discomfort occurs, the medication must be stopped immediately or switched to another drug. 2. If there is severe itching, the medicati...[Read More] Understanding Tuberculosis Treatment: Insights from Dr. Ko in Taiwan
Chronic Fatigue and Digestive Issues: Seeking Medical Guidance
Still feeling fatigued..? I would like to ask: I have the following conditions: 1. I feel very tired every day, even though I sleep for 8 hours, I still feel exhausted. 2. I have chronic bad breath and dry mouth (very little saliva production). 3. My bowel movements are irregular...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello, due to the presence of various non-specific symptoms, the likelihood of having a specific medical condition that explains all the symptoms is not very high. You have also undergone some tests that did not reveal any issues. It may be necessary to consult a physician again ...[Read More] Chronic Fatigue and Digestive Issues: Seeking Medical Guidance
Exploring Possible Causes Beyond Anemia: A Patient's Inquiry
The user continues to ask? Dr. Wang Fangli: Thank you very much for your reply. Regarding the tests and symptoms you mentioned, I have undergone some examinations at various hospitals. Initially, other doctors suspected anemia, but after ruling that out, they proceeded with tests...
Dr. Wang Fangli Reply:
Hello Mr. Lin: I think you may need to undergo some additional biochemical tests such as blood glucose, liver function, kidney function, cholesterol, and triglycerides. If these tests are normal, we should consider physiological responses caused by psychological stress. Internal ...[Read More] Exploring Possible Causes Beyond Anemia: A Patient's Inquiry