Understanding Chest Tightness: Causes and When to Seek Help
Chest tightness? Previously, I experienced a sensation of pressure on a certain part of my chest while lying on my side, which made me feel very uncomfortable and affected my sleep. Recently, after being startled, I have had trouble sleeping through the night, and this time the s...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
The cause of chest pain during times of stress is often due to muscle tension. However, if there are underlying conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidemia, or a history of smoking, it is essential to rule out myocardial ischemia or angina. Therefore, under...[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding How Steroids Work in the Body: A Comprehensive Guide
What are steroids? Could you explain the mechanism of how steroids work in the body?
Dr. Xie Weiming Reply:
Hello Mr. Zeng: Steroids, commonly known as American magic pills, are very effective medications but can lead to side effects if used improperly. Their primary function is to suppress the immune response in the body, including the actions of neutrophils, cytokines, and immunoglob...[Read More] Understanding How Steroids Work in the Body: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding Acne: Is Hormonal Imbalance the Root Cause?
Endocrine disorders and acne? I have been dealing with acne for almost three years now. During this time, I have seen many dermatologists, but the acne keeps coming back. I often hear people say that their acne is due to hormonal imbalances. How can I determine if my acne is caus...
Dr. Wang Zhihui Reply:
Endocrine diseases that can cause acne, aside from Cushing's syndrome due to excessive adrenal corticosteroids, include symptoms such as moon facies, buffalo hump, central obesity, and acne. However, such cases are relatively rare, and skin-related issues are more common. Th...[Read More] Understanding Acne: Is Hormonal Imbalance the Root Cause?
Menopausal Vegetarians and Obesity: Understanding Edema and Hormonal Effects
Obesity in Vegetarian Women During Menopause Occasionally, there is swelling in the feet, and urine output is low. I have previously taken hormone medications.
Dr. Zhong Yuxun Reply:
Hello, Jai: It is common to see lower limb edema in middle-aged women, and there are many potential causes. It is important to first have a physician rule out issues related to the heart, liver, or kidneys. Next, one should check for the presence of lower limb varicosities. In so...[Read More] Menopausal Vegetarians and Obesity: Understanding Edema and Hormonal Effects
Why Do Older Adults Have Thin Limbs and Big Bellies?
Thin limbs with a distended abdomen? Hello Dr. Chen: Is it common for elderly individuals to have thin limbs and a protruding abdomen? My father is 75 years old and has a particularly large belly. Could this be related to his beer consumption? However, he only drinks beer occasio...
Dr. Chen Guifeng Reply:
There are many causes of obesity, and it is recommended to consult an endocrinologist.[Read More] Why Do Older Adults Have Thin Limbs and Big Bellies?
Understanding Nerve Sensations Under the Rib: Causes and Concerns
Overweight? I have been experiencing a tingling sensation under the skin near the lower edge of my left rib cage for about 8 months. Initially, it occurred after eating, but now I can feel it frequently, and it feels uncomfortable, as if that area is being pinched. Two months ago...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello Mr. Qin: Based on the symptoms you described, it is possible that you are experiencing intercostal neuralgia. Additionally, your weight is above the standard for your height (overweight). You may want to consult with an internal medicine or neurology specialist for further ...[Read More] Understanding Nerve Sensations Under the Rib: Causes and Concerns
Herbal Remedies for Weight Management in Prader-Willi Syndrome: Safe Options
Prescription My daughter has Prader-Willi syndrome, which has led to significant obesity. This is a genetic disorder, and she is currently ten years old. I would like to know if there are any traditional Chinese medicines that can aid in weight loss without side effects. Could yo...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello Law Kwai Chi: Based on your description, your daughter's condition (Prader-Willi syndrome) is caused by multiple hormonal metabolic disorders leading to obesity, which may be accompanied by hyperglycemia. Generally, weight loss medications or traditional Chinese herbal...[Read More] Herbal Remedies for Weight Management in Prader-Willi Syndrome: Safe Options
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Is 99 mg/dL a Cause for Concern?
Blood glucose During my health check-up, my fasting blood glucose level was 99 mg/dL, whereas it used to be around 87 mg/dL. The normal range is 65-110 mg/dL. Does this mean I am at a higher risk of developing diabetes? Is there a way to lower my blood sugar levels? Is this relat...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Reply to Aaron: A fasting blood sugar level of 99 is still within the safe normal range. At the age of 23, your chances of developing diabetes are low. The risk of diabetes is related to family history, obesity, and lifestyle habits. Engaging in regular exercise, reducing fat int...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Is 99 mg/dL a Cause for Concern?
Understanding Chronic Fatigue: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Always feeling fatigued? Hello Dr. Kuo, I have been feeling fatigued for the past few years, and it has severely affected my daily work and life. I feel drowsy and lack energy every day. Today, I went to the hospital in Taoyuan for a blood test, and the results showed that I have...
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Hello Mr. Elton: Blood tests should not indicate fatty liver; it is typically diagnosed through ultrasound. High blood lipids usually do not cause fatigue; it is advisable to address lifestyle stressors. The causes of fatty liver include alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Fatigue: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Weight Gain After Overusing Laxatives: Health Risks and Solutions
Taking excessive laxatives has resulted in a weight gain of 20 kg over the past year? Hello Doctor: A year ago, I used an enema for constipation, but it didn't work. Later, I bought laxatives from a pharmacy, which did help me have bowel movements, and I became dependent on ...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
I wonder what kind of laxatives you are taking that allows you to consume more than five a day. Laxatives should not contain steroids. As for the 20 kilograms you gained over the past year, that is indeed a concern. May I ask your height? We can calculate your BMI (Body Mass Inde...[Read More] Weight Gain After Overusing Laxatives: Health Risks and Solutions
Understanding Gout: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints Gout is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to inflammation and pain. It can be triggered by factors such as high purine intake (foun...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Reply SOS: The accumulation of excessive uric acid crystals in the joints causes inflammation and swelling, known as gout. Consuming too many high-purine foods, such as organ meats, seafood, hot pot broth, meats, and alcoholic beverages, leads to the metabolism of these substance...[Read More] Understanding Gout: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options
How Metabolism Affects Weight Loss: Understanding Your Body's Needs
Regarding metabolism..? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask if the efficiency of my metabolism affects the speed of my weight loss? How can I determine if my metabolism is within normal values? Should I get a blood test? If so, do I need to fast before the test? If my metabolic ra...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello, Xiaomei: It is commonly understood that metabolic rate is an important factor influencing body weight; however, many studies have found that obese individuals do not necessarily have a slower metabolic rate. Therefore, measuring metabolic rate is not particularly meaningfu...[Read More] How Metabolism Affects Weight Loss: Understanding Your Body's Needs
Understanding Unexplained Foot Edema: Causes and Treatment Options
Foot edema I have undergone a full-body health check at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and have consulted with specialists in cardiology, nephrology, and metabolism, but no underlying cause has been identified. Some doctors have mentioned that it is idiopathic edema, which cannot b...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
1. Edema of unknown origin; consume low-sodium foods. 2. Elevate your legs while sleeping. 3. If symptoms persist, please follow up at the internal medicine outpatient clinic. For obesity, increase metabolic function: exercise more and reduce intake of high-calorie foods. If ...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Foot Edema: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Health Implications and Pregnancy Concerns
Hepatitis B carrier Three years ago, I was diagnosed with hepatitis B through a blood test, and in September of the 89th year, I had a blood test for the E antigen, which indicated that I do not have hepatitis B. However, in June of the 89th year, I underwent a premarital health ...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
As a carrier of hepatitis B, the severity of your liver disease needs to be assessed through tests such as GOT, GPT, and ultrasound examinations. There are various methods for weight loss, and obesity is primarily related to genetics, with a smaller portion influenced by dietary ...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Health Implications and Pregnancy Concerns
Understanding Gallbladder Polyps and Fatty Liver: Health Implications and Dietary Tips
Polyp in the gallbladder Recently, during a health check-up, an abdominal ultrasound revealed (1) a polyp in the gallbladder and (2) fatty liver. Are these issues a concern for health, and do they require further treatment? How should I adjust my daily diet accordingly?
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
1. For gallbladder polyps, it is recommended to follow up in the outpatient clinic every three to six months if the size does not exceed 1 centimeter; if it exceeds 1 centimeter, surgical resection is advised due to the potential for malignancy. 2. The causes of fatty liver inclu...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Polyps and Fatty Liver: Health Implications and Dietary Tips
Understanding Obesity-Related Diseases: Key Conditions and Their Impacts
Diseases related to obesity? Hello Dr. Tseng: I would like to inquire about diseases related to obesity: 1) Hypertension 2) Hypercholesterolemia 3) Hyperglycemia 4) Hyperinsulinemia 5) Type 2 Diabetes. Please provide their Chinese names and a brief profile for each. Additionally,...
Dr. Zeng Fenyu Reply:
1) Hypertension 2) Hypercholesterolemia 3) Hyperglycemia 4) Hyperinsulinemia 5) Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus It is recommended that you obtain relevant educational pamphlets or health manuals from a hospital or health department clinic.[Read More] Understanding Obesity-Related Diseases: Key Conditions and Their Impacts
Understanding Abdominal Distension and Early Satiety: Key Insights
Abdominal distension and early satiety? Hello, Dr. Hong; since July, my waist circumference has increased (in the lower abdomen), and I am concerned about conditions like chocolate cysts... After a gynecological examination, it was determined that there are no gynecological disea...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
In addition to abdominal cavity pathologies, the reasons for an increase in waist circumference should also consider gastrointestinal dysfunction. If there are recurrent abdominal pains and a fear of undergoing gastroscopy, it is recommended to perform an upper gastrointestinal s...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Distension and Early Satiety: Key Insights
Dietary Tips for Managing Fatty Liver Disease: Causes and Precautions
Fatty liver disease What dietary considerations should be taken into account for someone diagnosed with fatty liver disease? How is fatty liver disease formed?
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
Fatty liver, in simple terms, means that the liver is "oily." This indicates that there is an accumulation of fat within liver cells. In Taiwan, approximately one-third of adults have fatty liver. Common causes of fatty liver include obesity, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, e...[Read More] Dietary Tips for Managing Fatty Liver Disease: Causes and Precautions