Kidney Stones vs. Kidney Cancer: Understanding Your Diagnosis and Concerns
Kidney stones or kidney cancer? Dear Dr. Wu, Hello! I have some questions that I would like your help with. 1. Since my sophomore year, I have consistently had protein in my urine during health check-ups, which has caused me a lot of concern. Almost every test I have done show...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. The examination of proteinuria can be categorized into coarse and fine assessments, and there are physiological proteinuria and pathological proteinuria. It is recommended that you consult a nephrologist for a detailed examination to clarify the issue. 2. Kidney stones are d...[Read More] Kidney Stones vs. Kidney Cancer: Understanding Your Diagnosis and Concerns
Managing Diabetes: Key Questions on Blood Sugar and Diet
Revisiting Diabetes Mellitus? Hello Dr. Hsiao, First of all, thank you for your response last time. Yesterday, I visited the cardiology department to review my blood test results. My fasting blood glucose was 96 mg/dL and my HbA1c was 5.5% (three months ago, my fasting blood glu...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Question 1: Should I still strictly control my intake of starches and sugars? Answer: Strictly controlling the intake of starches and sugars can indeed lower blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels, thereby improving conditions such as diabetes or glucose intolerance. In f...[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Key Questions on Blood Sugar and Diet
Understanding Hunger-Induced Dizziness and Sleepiness: Blood Sugar Issues?
Feeling hungry, dizzy, and experiencing mood swings, followed by sleepiness after eating, could indicate several issues. These symptoms may suggest fluctuations in blood sugar levels, possibly related to conditions such as hypoglycemia or insulin resistance. It could also be rela...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. According to the conclusions and recommendations of the American Diabetes Association in 2010, a fasting plasma glucose level between 100 and 125 mg/dl is classified as impaired fasting glucose, indicating an increased risk of diabetes. Therefore, if your blood glucose level i...[Read More] Understanding Hunger-Induced Dizziness and Sleepiness: Blood Sugar Issues?
Does Gallbladder Removal Increase Type 2 Diabetes Risk?
Several questions regarding diabetes? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about the high-risk groups for diabetes. I am a gallstone patient and have had my gallbladder removed. Does the absence of a gallbladder increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes? In my family history, ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Having a family history of type 2 diabetes indeed increases the likelihood of developing the condition. This apparent familial clustering of incidence may be attributed to genetic factors, as well as shared dietary and lifestyle habits shaped by cohabitation. The progression o...[Read More] Does Gallbladder Removal Increase Type 2 Diabetes Risk?
Can You Test Your Own Lead Levels? Understanding Symptoms and Home Testing
Dr. Hsiao, is it possible to test for lead levels on my own? Frequent urination at night with bubbles can be concerning.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
The assessment of nocturia requires a comprehensive medical history and physical examination, and may even necessitate laboratory tests, urodynamic studies, or imaging examinations. The differential diagnosis must consider many factors, including overactive bladder, heart failure...[Read More] Can You Test Your Own Lead Levels? Understanding Symptoms and Home Testing
Understanding Edema: Causes and Concerns for Kidney Patients
Edema of the legs? Hello Dr. Wu: I have chronic glomerulonephritis with proteinuria and hypertension, and I undergo blood tests every three months. My kidney function is within normal limits, although my creatinine level occasionally exceeds 1.4 slightly. The cardiologist suggest...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. If pressing on the foot causes a dent that lasts about 3-5 seconds (sometimes several minutes) before recovering, does this count as edema? Answer: Yes, this is considered edema. 2. Kidney function is within normal limits, but sometimes creatinine is slightly above 1.4. Answ...[Read More] Understanding Edema: Causes and Concerns for Kidney Patients
Understanding Moon Facies: Possible Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
What diseases can cause an unusually round and swollen face (similar to a full moon face)? I am a 22-year-old male, and recently while organizing old photos, I noticed that my face appears disproportionately swollen compared to my BMI. I am 175 cm tall and weigh 80 kg. I collecte...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Mr. Kobayashi: 1. Regarding kidney diseases, blood tests and urinalysis can be used for screening, and sometimes additional imaging studies such as ultrasound may be performed to assist in diagnosis and treatment. If, as you mentioned, you only have kidney stones (and ele...[Read More] Understanding Moon Facies: Possible Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
Understanding High Uric Acid: Gout, Genetics, and Long-Term Treatment
Uric acid and metabolism issues? Hello Dr. Hsiao, Question 1: Around the age of 20, I was diagnosed with high uric acid levels, approximately double the normal range, which led to gout (in my toe). The doctor mentioned it might be hereditary, but my family members do not exhibit...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Question 1: The definition of hyperuricemia is a serum uric acid concentration greater than 7.0 mg/dL in men and greater than 6.0 mg/dL in women. Uric acid is a risk factor for the development of gout; however, the relationship between hyperuricemia and acute gout remains unclear...[Read More] Understanding High Uric Acid: Gout, Genetics, and Long-Term Treatment
Understanding Blood Sugar Monitoring: Accuracy and Common Concerns
About diabetes? First of all, I would like to thank Dr. Lee for the previous response. I do have hyperlipidemia and hypertension, which I am currently managing with medication. My average blood pressure is (systolic) 110-120 and (diastolic) 65-75. In my last inquiry, my fasting b...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: The blood glucose levels obtained from a standard blood draw are typically about 15% higher than those measured by a glucose meter, which may raise some questions for you. Since you are at high risk for diabetes, it is recommended that you continue to manage your diet and ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Monitoring: Accuracy and Common Concerns
Understanding the Link Between Cholesterol Levels and Obesity
Is there a correlation between cholesterol and obesity? Hello doctor, I am an overweight college student. Recently, the health check-up results from my school showed that my overall health status seems fine, except for being overweight and having a high BMI. However, I am curious...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Obesity does not necessarily mean high cholesterol; there is some correlation, but it is not absolute.[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Cholesterol Levels and Obesity
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Cold Sweats: Causes and Solutions
Abdominal pain with cold sweats? Hello, I previously asked about small intestine and paralytic ileus issues. Thank you for your detailed response. Following up on my last question, I still have abdominal pain in the left lower quadrant. I had abdominal surgery (total hysterectomy...
Dr. Xiao Jingqin Reply:
When the intestines undergo severe spasms, symptoms such as cold sweats, generalized weakness, and pallor may occur due to the body's parasympathetic nervous system reflex. The small mass you can feel in your lower left abdomen may be a portion of the intestine that is in sp...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Cold Sweats: Causes and Solutions
Effective Strategies for Healthy Weight Gain and Muscle Building
Methods for Gaining Weight Doctor, I am 170 cm tall and weigh 55 kg. I want to gain weight and build muscle, but I find it difficult to put on weight. Do you have any recommendations for gaining weight?
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 19.0, which falls within the standard weight range and is not considered underweight. Additionally, you are in a young age group, where metabolic rates are high and activity levels are significant, making slow weight gain a common phenomenon. ...[Read More] Effective Strategies for Healthy Weight Gain and Muscle Building
Understanding Methylprednisolone: Effects on Liver Enzymes and Potassium Levels
Regarding steroids? Currently, due to vasculitis, I have been using methylprednisolone for three weeks. The initial dosage was an injection twice a day (30 mg each time), administered for three consecutive days, then reduced to half the dosage for another three days, followed by ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello: Long-term use of steroids can lead to obesity and fatty liver, which may result in a mild increase in GOT (AST) and GPT (ALT) levels. However, it is essential to rule out the possibility of hepatitis B and C. Additionally, this may cause mild hypokalemia and an increase in...[Read More] Understanding Methylprednisolone: Effects on Liver Enzymes and Potassium Levels
Understanding Metabolic Syndrome: Causes, Risks, and Weight Loss Benefits
What is metabolic syndrome? What is metabolic syndrome? Is it caused by a disease or is it a result of metabolic abnormalities? Is obesity related to this condition? Can weight loss improve it? Thank you!
Dr. Qiu Zhengbin Reply:
Hello: Metabolic syndrome refers to a cluster of metabolic abnormalities that result in elevated blood glucose, blood pressure, triglycerides, and abdominal obesity. It is primarily caused by poor lifestyle habits such as overeating and lack of physical activity, and it is closel...[Read More] Understanding Metabolic Syndrome: Causes, Risks, and Weight Loss Benefits
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Concerns and Next Steps
SGOT: 22, SGPT: 43 On September 21, my health check report indicated that my GOT is 22 and GPT is 43. I do not have Hepatitis B or C. Although my levels are only slightly above the standard values by 3, I am still quite worried. Today, I visited a traditional Chinese medicine doc...
Dr. Xiao Jingqin Reply:
There are many reasons for elevated liver function tests, with common causes including viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis, and drug-induced hepatitis. Based on your levels, it does not appear to be viral hepatitis (acute hepatitis A or E can likely be ruled...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Concerns and Next Steps
Understanding Diabetes: Symptoms, Causes, and Eye Health Concerns
Symptoms of diabetes? Is high cholesterol and high blood sugar a primary cause of diabetes? If I have blurred vision, could it be related to diabetes? Isn't diabetes associated with weight loss? Can overweight individuals also have diabetes? Should I see an ophthalmologist f...
Dr. Qiu Zhengbin Reply:
Hello: The symptoms of diabetes include increased appetite, increased thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss; however, a significant portion of patients may be asymptomatic. Diabetes can lead to retinopathy and increase the incidence of various eye diseases. If you experienc...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Symptoms, Causes, and Eye Health Concerns
Managing High Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure: Daily Health Tips
How to manage elevated blood sugar levels in daily life? Hello Doctor: My father recently underwent a health check-up and his blood sugar level was found to be elevated at 119 mg/dL. Additionally, his blood pressure readings showed a systolic pressure of 175 mmHg and a diastolic ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions: 1. A fasting blood glucose level of 119 mg/dL raises clinical suspicion for potential impaired glucose tolerance. It is advisable to consult your family physician for further evaluation to gain a deeper understanding of your condition. ...[Read More] Managing High Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure: Daily Health Tips
Managing High Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetes: Tips and Insights
High blood sugar? Hello Dr. Lee, I would like to ask how to handle high blood sugar levels? My mother has been a diabetic for about 15 years. She was previously controlled with oral medications, but for the past three years, she has started using insulin injections, which have no...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello Amin, Your question can be summarized as "how to effectively manage diabetes." In addition to the patient and their family, a team consisting of physicians, dietitians, and diabetes educators should be involved in managing diabetes. Currently, health bureaus in v...[Read More] Managing High Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetes: Tips and Insights
Understanding Weakness After Meals: Is It Low Blood Sugar or Something Else?
Weakness in the limbs? Hello Doctor: I experience a feeling of overall weakness a few hours after eating. It happens occasionally, but I don't feel hungry in my stomach. Currently, my solution is to eat something to create a slight feeling of fullness, and about half an hour...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
If there is discomfort in the body that improves after eating, it cannot be ruled out that it is caused by hypoglycemia; however, true hypoglycemic episodes are not very common. If symptoms are pronounced, blood tests to check blood glucose levels should be conducted during sympt...[Read More] Understanding Weakness After Meals: Is It Low Blood Sugar or Something Else?
Preventing Dialysis: Key Causes and Health Tips for Kidney Care
How to prevent dialysis? 1. What are the causes of dialysis? 2. How can one maintain health to avoid the need for dialysis? 3. I have been using a nasal spray containing Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride for over two years. The pharmacist advised me to use it for six days and then ...
Dr. Yang Weishun Reply:
1. The most common chronic diseases include diabetes and hypertension, along with chronic glomerulonephritis, kidney stones, and urinary tract obstruction, among others. 2. It is important to monitor for hypertension or hyperglycemia, as well as the presence of proteinuria. Avo...[Read More] Preventing Dialysis: Key Causes and Health Tips for Kidney Care