Understanding Low Glomerular Filtration Rate: What You Need to Know
Low glomerular filtration rate (GFR) Hello doctor, I am currently 26 years old and below are my data (the abnormal ones related to kidney function tests). Last year, my blood pressure was 137/80, cholesterol was 208 (standard upper limit is 200), white blood cells were 4.7 (norma...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on the data you provided, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) has decreased from 94.58 to 80.89, which raises concerns about changes in kidney function. Currently, the GFR we use is derived from studies conducted by international scholars, and there are also researchers in...[Read More] Understanding Low Glomerular Filtration Rate: What You Need to Know
Understanding Kidney Health: Common Concerns and Diagnostic Tests Explained
How are kidney blood and urine tests conducted, and are there any issues to be aware of? In mid-October, I had blood tests, urine tests, and X-rays done at the nephrology department. The reports came back normal. 1. However, I notice that my urine has bubbles that disappear in ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Based on the report you provided, it can only be roughly determined that there is no proteinuria, and it is not possible to fully confirm whether kidney function is normal (as there are no blood test results for creatinine and glomerular filtration rate provided). 2. Most cas...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Health: Common Concerns and Diagnostic Tests Explained
Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
The issue of bloating? Hello Dr. Lin: I have been suffering from bloating for a long time. I was born with only one kidney, which is functioning normally. The bloating usually lasts for 3-4 days, but it is accompanied by the issue of urinary incontinence, which affects my sleep. ...
Dr. Lin Peifeng Reply:
Hello, have you been to the hospital for an examination? I recommend that you go to the hospital for a detailed check-up to determine the correct cause of your condition.[Read More] Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Understanding Lupus: Hereditary Risks and Health Check Recommendations
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) I’m sorry to hear about your mother’s passing due to lupus. Lupus, specifically systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), can have a genetic component, which means there may be an increased risk of developing the condition if a family member has it. I...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, internet user: In systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), only a small number of cases exhibit hereditary patterns, so there is no need to worry. The clinical symptoms of lupus can be quite diverse. Possible symptoms include: fever, fatigue, joint pain or arthritis, facial ras...[Read More] Understanding Lupus: Hereditary Risks and Health Check Recommendations
Understanding Frequent Urination and Gas: Kidney Health Concerns
Incontinence with gas leakage? Dear Dr. Chen: I currently have only one kidney, and I often experience bloating, which leads to frequent urination and urinary incontinence. I have to use overnight sanitary pads before bed to sleep peacefully. Sometimes, I also experience proteinu...
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
Please visit the nephrology outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Frequent Urination and Gas: Kidney Health Concerns
Understanding Kidney Health: GFR at 84.1 with No Proteinuria Concerns
The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is measured at 84.1, and the urinalysis shows no proteinuria? Hello Dr. Wu: This year's health check report shows a creatinine level of 1.0, and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is approximately 84.1. I have a history of ch...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on your inquiry, your creatinine level is 1.0, and your estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is 84.1. Given your age, this indicates a slight decrease in kidney function (normal eGFR > 90). However, you are currently being treated for benign prostatic hyperplasia,...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Health: GFR at 84.1 with No Proteinuria Concerns
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
Understanding Proteinuria: Kidney Health and Hydration Concerns
Urinary protein and some issues? Hello Doctor, I have been drinking insufficient water for a long time, and my urine output is low. A few years ago, I tested positive for protein in my urine. During that time, I increased my water intake, and the protein disappeared, but I still ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Regarding proteinuria, it should not be assessed by visual inspection (such as the presence of bubbles in the urine, darker urine color, or occasional cloudiness). If there are any concerns, it is advisable to consult a nephrologist for a detailed examination to confirm the di...[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria: Kidney Health and Hydration Concerns
Understanding Kidney Imaging: When to Repeat and What It Means
Renal imaging I would like to ask the doctor, a few years ago I had a urinalysis that showed trace hematuria (1+), and the doctor performed an intravenous pyelogram (IVP) which came back normal. If I have another urinalysis now that still shows trace hematuria (1+), should I unde...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. It is recommended to consult a nephrologist or urologist for a renal ultrasound for monitoring. If any issues arise, further examinations such as an Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) or a CT scan can be considered. 2. To determine if there is proteinuria, a urinalysis is sufficient...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Imaging: When to Repeat and What It Means
Managing Joint Pain in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Issues related to systemic lupus erythematosus? Hello, doctor. I was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus in early April this year. I have already started taking medication, but I am currently away and do not have the English name of the medication with me, so I cannot pro...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
The diagnostic criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) include: 1. The presence of a fixed erythematous rash on the cheeks, known as a malar rash or butterfly rash; it typically does not involve the nasolabial folds. 2. The appearance of discoid lupus erythematosus lesion...[Read More] Managing Joint Pain in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Understanding Fluctuating Hematuria and Proteinuria in Young Adults
Hello, why is it that urine tests sometimes detect hematuria and proteinuria, and at other times do not? I am currently an 18-year-old male with intermittent proteinuria, which has been monitored for three years. My nephrologist has advised to continue monitoring. In early Februa...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. There are many causes of occult blood, and orchitis can be one of them; further follow-up may be needed. 2. As for the multiple inflammatory conditions (otitis media, orchitis, and paronychia), they are likely not related. If inflammation occurs frequently in the future, it i...[Read More] Understanding Fluctuating Hematuria and Proteinuria in Young Adults
Understanding Stage 1 Chronic Kidney Disease: Symptoms and Concerns
Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 1 Hello, doctor... I have had mild proteinuria since high school. During a company health check, the urine test showed proteinuria intermittently (+/-). About six years ago, I underwent a 24-hour urine test, and the results were within the normal rang...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 1 is defined as a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 90 mL/min/1.73 m² or higher, accompanied by proteinuria, hematuria, or abnormal kidney morphology. Based on your description of "24-hour urine test results within normal range," this d...[Read More] Understanding Stage 1 Chronic Kidney Disease: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Glomerular Filtration Rate: What You Need to Know
Regarding the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) value? Hello, Dr. Hsiao. I have been experiencing fasting blood glucose levels between 102 and 112 for a long time. This time, I underwent tests, and my fasting blood glucose was 108, postprandial was 119, HbA1c was 5.6%, blood urea ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
According to a study published in The Lancet in 2008, it is estimated that 11.93% of adults in Taiwan have chronic kidney disease (CKD). The stages of severity are as follows: 1. Stage 1: Kidney damage with normal or increased GFR, GFR ≥ 90 ml/min/1.73 m². 2. Stage 2: Kidney dama...[Read More] Understanding Glomerular Filtration Rate: What You Need to Know
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 Blood Sugar Fluctuations in Diabetes Management
About diabetes? Hello Director Hsiao, Over two months ago, I had a blood test at the hospital, and my fasting blood glucose was 130 mg/dL, with a hemoglobin A1c of 6.4%. The doctor did not prescribe medication and advised dietary control instead. I purchased a blood glucose mete...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, a fasting blood glucose level of 126 mg/dL corresponds to a glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of approximately 6.5%. Therefore, the test results from two months ago should be reliable. 2. In the classification of diabetes, type 2 diabetes accounts for about 92-95%...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Fluctuations in Diabetes Management
Understanding Chronic Glomerulonephritis: Risks and Management
Chronic glomerulonephritis Hello Director Wu: I have hypertension and dyslipidemia (controlled with medication), as well as proteinuria. Since last year, my creatinine levels have fluctuated, sometimes above 1.2 and sometimes above 1.3. My most recent creatinine level was 1.33, w...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on your question, "Creatinine is 1.33 with a glomerular filtration rate of 62.1 ml/min/1.73 m²," it can be simply stated that at your age, the glomerular filtration rate should be greater than 90 ml/min/1.73 m². Additionally, you mentioned having hypertension, dys...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Glomerulonephritis: Risks and Management
Managing Membranous Nephropathy: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips
Membranous nephropathy Before treatment for membranous nephropathy, proteinuria was between 1-2 grams, and albumin was above 1000. After treatment, proteinuria decreased to below 0.5 grams (minimum 0.17), and albumin fluctuated between 300-500 (minimum 100). With continued treatm...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Hong, Hello. Membranous nephropathy is an important glomerular disease that can lead to end-stage renal disease, especially in cases with severe proteinuria reaching nephrotic syndrome. In a ten-year follow-up, 30-40% of patients with this condition progress to renal failur...[Read More] Managing Membranous Nephropathy: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips
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 Foamy Urine: When to See a Doctor for Kidney Health
The issue of foamy urine? Hello: What symptoms are associated with foamy urine that would require seeing a doctor for kidney examination? Thank you.
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
First, let’s define what you refer to as "bubbly urine." When observing bubbly urine with the naked eye, it is important to further investigate for proteinuria, as proteinuria can cause bubbly urine. However, bubbly urine does not necessarily indicate proteinuria; it ma...[Read More] Understanding Foamy Urine: When to See a Doctor for Kidney Health
Understanding Kidney Issues: Proteinuria and Rising Creatinine Levels
Regarding kidney disease issues? Three months ago, blood tests showed a creatinine level of 1.0 mg/dL and a BUN of 7.2 mg/dL. Three days ago, blood tests indicated that the creatinine level has risen to 1.1 mg/dL, and a urinalysis revealed proteinuria at 10 mg. In recent months, ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Three months ago, blood tests showed a creatinine level of 1.0, which corresponds to an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 98 ml/min/1.73m². Three days ago, the creatinine level increased to 1.1, resulting in an eGFR of 88 ml/min/1.73m². Although this appears to be a ...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: Proteinuria and Rising Creatinine Levels