Understanding Right Flank Pain: When to Consult a Nephrologist
It is unclear whether this phenomenon is related to renal pathology? Hello, I have been experiencing a dull ache and discomfort in my right lower back every morning upon waking up for the past week. I do not have any urgency to urinate or any other urinary symptoms. I'm unsu...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear You-Hsin, Hello. The causes of low back pain (also known as lumbago) are approximately 97% due to mechanical factors, including muscle strains, sprains, and spinal issues. Among these, over 70% are due to lumbar sprains, 4% are due to herniated discs, and 1% are due to non-...[Read More] Understanding Right Flank Pain: When to Consult a Nephrologist
Understanding Proteinuria in Teenagers: Causes and Concerns
Dear Doctor, why do I easily have proteinuria? Hello, I am a 17-year-old male. I have been experiencing proteinuria (+~++) for about a year. During this time, I have visited three major hospitals for diagnosis. I have undergone blood tests to assess kidney function and a 24-hour ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello, I am a nephrologist who relies on "tests (blood and urine tests, X-rays)" and "machines (dialysis machines)" to make a living... This is purely a joke (any resemblance is coincidental), but it does highlight the concerns of nephrologists and patients wi...[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria in Teenagers: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Inflammatory Back Pain: Is It Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask about my HLA-B27 test result, which came back negative, but X-rays show inflammation in my sacroiliac joints, approximately at a grade two level on both sides. Does this mean I have ankylosing spondylitis? Although I don&#...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, online user: Inflammation of the bilateral sacroiliac joints, combined with morning lower back pain, raises the suspicion of ankylosing spondylitis. However, it is still recommended to consult a rheumatologist for further differential diagnosis. Most patients experience li...[Read More] Understanding Inflammatory Back Pain: Is It Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding Right Flank Discomfort: Kidney or Gastrointestinal Issues?
Right posterior flank? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing a dull, pressure-like sensation in the right side of my lower back, sometimes in the right flank. It feels uncomfortable when sitting down, but it’s not painful. This has been going on for over a week. I fee...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Recently, I have been experiencing a feeling of heaviness and pressure in the right side of my lower back, sometimes in the right flank, especially when sitting down. There is no pain, and these symptoms have persisted for over a week. I feel more comfortable when standing. Gener...[Read More] Understanding Right Flank Discomfort: Kidney or Gastrointestinal Issues?
Understanding Kidney Cysts: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Renal cysts I have a 1.3 cm cyst on my right kidney as shown by an ultrasound. The doctor said it is due to my constitution and advised me to return for a consultation when I experience kidney pain. However, I have been experiencing brief sharp pains under my right rib cage for t...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Ms. Huihui: Hello, the kidneys are located on either side of the spine in the lower back. Generally, the symptoms of renal cysts depend on their size (>4 cm) and location. If you have any concerns, I recommend that you follow up with an outpatient examination. Wishing you...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Cysts: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Urethritis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Kidney Concerns
Urethritis and lower back pain? Hello Doctor: Since last week, I have been experiencing painful urination and frequent urination, so I saw a doctor last Wednesday. The doctor prescribed me two medications: BAKTER (CHEMIX) and PYRIDIUM (UROPYRIN) to take twice a day for five days,...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Lele, Symptoms of kidney inflammation include pain, anemia, muscle weakness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. The use of medications like BAKTER may have side effects that vary from person to person, potentially causing crystallization and resulting in lower...[Read More] Understanding Urethritis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Kidney Concerns
Understanding Fluctuations in White Blood Cell Counts: Causes and Concerns
Blood test Hello, doctor. I recently had blood tests done on January 23 and January 26, with white blood cell counts of 6200 and 8800, respectively. My white blood cell count has typically been around 6000. Why is there such a significant difference in the results over just two t...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, it is possible for the total white blood cell count to fluctuate within a few days. This is because some white blood cells adhere to the blood vessel walls, and when the body experiences stress, a mild cold, or pain, these adhered white blood cells can detach and return to...[Read More] Understanding Fluctuations in White Blood Cell Counts: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Your Health: Morning Urine Bubbles and Other Symptoms
Health Consultation In the morning, my urine is foamy, and it is usually yellow and cloudy. I frequently feel the urge to urinate, have lower back pain, and feel fatigued.
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Aron, In the early stages of kidney disease, there are often no obvious symptoms. However, if you experience the following symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly, especially for individuals with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, heart disease, or diabetes. R...[Read More] Understanding Your Health: Morning Urine Bubbles and Other Symptoms
Understanding Sacroiliitis: X-Ray Findings and Clinical Implications
Regarding X-ray issues in sacroiliitis? Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing chronic lower back pain and suspect it may be ankylosing spondylitis. Recently, I underwent a re-evaluation during my military service. I previously had a negative serum test at National Taiwan Univer...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Dear Mr. Lu, Thank you for your message. The diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis primarily relies on clinical symptoms and imaging studies, while serological tests serve as supplementary references. Therefore, if the symptoms are consistent and imaging shows abnormalities, we ma...[Read More] Understanding Sacroiliitis: X-Ray Findings and Clinical Implications
Understanding Mild Hydronephrosis: Should You Be Concerned?
Hydronephrosis issue I am 32 years old and have been experiencing lower back pain due to prolonged sitting. Concerned that it might be a kidney issue, I visited a urologist. However, the doctor indicated that the location and symptoms of my pain are more consistent with a musculo...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Jenny: Hello, if other kidney function tests (blood and urine tests) are normal, it is recommended to follow up with a kidney ultrasound every six months to a year. If there is persistent severe hydronephrosis, further examinations such as pyelography and computed tomography...[Read More] Understanding Mild Hydronephrosis: Should You Be Concerned?
Understanding Left Lower Back Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Hello doctor, I am experiencing pain in my left lower back? Hello, Doctor Hsiao. Recently, I have been actively trying to lose weight and visited a traditional Chinese medicine clinic where I was prescribed herbal medicine for weight loss, reducing excessive heat in the body, and...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
There are many factors related to the content you mentioned. If you are already committed to a weight loss program at a traditional Chinese medicine clinic, please follow the advice and treatment of your TCM practitioner. If you suspect there may be an underlying medical issue an...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Back Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Acute Kidney Failure: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Kidney problems Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been drinking a lot of water, but the amount I urinate is very little. I usually exercise a lot and sweat a lot, but lately, my sweat has had a very sour smell, somewhat like ammonia. Additionally, I have been experiencing a dull pa...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Regarding acute renal failure (acute renal failure, also known as acute kidney injury): It is essential to understand the functions of the kidneys in the body. The kidneys primarily eliminate toxins produced from protein metabolism (commonly referred to as uremia) and regulate...[Read More] Understanding Acute Kidney Failure: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Understanding Right Groin Discomfort: Seeking the Right Medical Advice
Right groin? Since last summer, I've been experiencing discomfort on the right side of my body, starting with pain that is hard to describe. The uncomfortable area is located to the right of my right testicle, in the perineum, and the upper right side of my anus (initially, ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
First, let's clarify a few points that may not seem related to nephrology (I am a nephrologist). 1. Where exactly do you feel discomfort? Is it in the scrotum, inner thigh, perineum, or near the anus? A physician examining you in person would have a better understanding of...[Read More] Understanding Right Groin Discomfort: Seeking the Right Medical Advice
Understanding Right Side Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Pain in the right lower back? Hello Doctor: I often experience a dull pain in my lower back, and occasionally on the left side as well. The pain comes and goes. Which specialty should I consult or what kind of examination should I undergo? Thank you!
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, online user: The causes of pain in the right lower back can be related to visceral issues such as the kidneys, ureters, or retroperitoneal problems. Additionally, differential diagnoses should include spinal, neurological, muscular, and fascial conditions. It is advisable ...[Read More] Understanding Right Side Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Could I Have Ankylosing Spondylitis? Understanding Symptoms and Self-Diagnosis
Is it possible to have ankylosing spondylitis? Hello doctor, recently I have experienced occasional heel pain after sitting for long periods (about over an hour). I previously consulted a neurologist, and X-rays revealed osteophyte formation at the L4 and L5 vertebrae, resulting ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, ankylosing spondylitis often presents with chronic back pain, especially when the pain lasts for more than three months. This should be taken seriously. If the symptoms are only short-term, there is no need for excessive concern; however, if the symptoms recur or become pe...[Read More] Could I Have Ankylosing Spondylitis? Understanding Symptoms and Self-Diagnosis
Which Specialist to Consult for a Hard Lump on the Lower Back?
Which specialty should I consult for a hard lump protruding on the right side of the lower back? Hello doctor, I have a small hard lump on the right posterior side of my lower back. The skin over it appears normal and it is not painful. The lump does not seem to extend deep enoug...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
It is recommended to schedule an appointment with a general surgeon for an initial assessment before deciding on the next steps for treatment.[Read More] Which Specialist to Consult for a Hard Lump on the Lower Back?
Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult After Abnormal Health Check Results?
Which medical specialty should you consult after a health check-up? Last October, my health check revealed the following abnormalities: My age is comparable to that of an elementary school student taking an exam, and I am concerned about the abnormal results. My serum globulin le...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, user: You have many questions. Iritis is related to rheumatology and immunology, while the other issues may be related to gastroenterology and cardiology. Please provide your health check report for the doctor’s reference. Start by consulting a rheumatologist or an immunol...[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult After Abnormal Health Check Results?
Understanding Numbness and Tingling During a Cold: Causes and Concerns
Cold with numbness in hands and feet? Hello Doctor: On October 1st (Friday), I visited an ophthalmologist due to discomfort in my eyes. The doctor diagnosed me with inflammation of the trigeminal nerve in the eye, which was considered a minor issue, and prescribed eye drops. Afte...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello: 1. After taking medication for sinusitis (AMBROXOL, CIMETIDINE, PARAN) and drinking coffee, I experienced mild numbness in my hands and feet, a sore throat, and upon waking up on Saturday morning, I started sneezing, had a fever, dizziness, and cold symptoms. I went to s...[Read More] Understanding Numbness and Tingling During a Cold: Causes and Concerns
Is Your Kidney at Risk? What to Watch for After a Back Injury
Kidney injury? Hello doctor, I accidentally got hit on the lower back by a heavy book. Initially, it was very painful, but after about three hours, the pain has decreased significantly. Do I need to go to the hospital for an examination to check if my kidneys are damaged? What si...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Dear Sir: The kidneys are located in the posterior part of the body and are protected by layers of muscle. Given your situation, it is unlikely that the kidneys have been injured. If you experience further pain, consider seeking medical attention (such as arranging for an ultraso...[Read More] Is Your Kidney at Risk? What to Watch for After a Back Injury
Seeking Medical Advice on Sacroiliac Joint Inflammation from X-ray
I would like to inquire about the condition of sacroiliac joint inflammation? I have attached my X-ray of the pelvis and would like to ask the doctor if there is evidence of sacroiliitis. I was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis approximately six years ago, with a positive HLA...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, based on the X-ray images you provided, it appears to show grade II sacroiliitis (I use "appears" because sometimes the transmitted images are not very clear). The diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis requires two key conditions: 1. Bilateral sacroiliitis of grade...[Read More] Seeking Medical Advice on Sacroiliac Joint Inflammation from X-ray