Managing Hyperthyroidism and Vitiligo: Key Questions and Concerns
Hyperthyroidism with vitiligo? Hello, I have been undergoing treatment for hyperthyroidism for about three months now. Currently, my medication regimen includes: two tablets of antithyroid medication in the morning and evening, and one tablet of a heart rate control medication in...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: Vitiligo and hyperthyroidism are often associated with autoimmune reactions, but vitiligo is not caused by hyperthyroidism, and it is not expected that vitiligo will resolve after the treatment of hyperthyroidism. Interferon treatment for hepatitis C can sometimes lead to ...[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism and Vitiligo: Key Questions and Concerns
Understanding BUN and CREA: Interpreting Kidney Function Test Results
BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) & CREA (Creatinine) Hello, doctor. On December 21st of last year, a private hospital in Kaohsiung came to our company to conduct health check-ups, which cost a total of 4,000 NTD. A few days later, the report came out, showing my BUN at 30 mg/dL and ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Each hospital has different standard values; it is unclear whether the first private hospital informed you of its normal values. 2. If the re-examination at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital shows normal results, then there should be no issue. 3. If you are still concerned...[Read More] Understanding BUN and CREA: Interpreting Kidney Function Test Results
Understanding Hand Tremors and Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Help
I would like to ask..? Dear Dr. Yang, I would like to ask about my symptoms: my hands tremble, I experience palpitations, and my heart rate is faster than normal. Initially, I thought I had hyperthyroidism, but my blood test results came back negative. However, I still have sym...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: If the symptoms are not very pronounced, it may not be necessary to see a physician. If it seems more like a neuropsychiatric issue and the symptoms cause significant distress, it is advisable to consult a psychiatrist first.[Read More] Understanding Hand Tremors and Palpitations: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Favism: Blood Tests and Military Exemption Criteria
Regarding the issue of Favism? Hello, doctor! I would like to ask if testing for G6PD deficiency can be done with a regular blood test? Additionally, I have heard that patients with G6PD deficiency may be exempt from military service. According to the current "Standards for ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: Favism is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme G6PD. Diagnosis can be made by testing the activity of G6PD through a blood sample. Most individuals with this condition are asymptomatic, and hemolytic anemia occurs only after the ingestion of certain medications or foods.[Read More] Understanding Favism: Blood Tests and Military Exemption Criteria
Understanding Your Medical Test Results: A Guide to Key Indicators
Laboratory Report Dr. Yang, could you please help me interpret my report? CK: 135 U/L TSH: 0.294 uIU/L HS-CRP: 0.58 mg/L CORTISOL: 9.00 µg/dL WBC: 5.1 x 1000/cmm HEMOGLOBIN: 11.6 g/dL PLATELET: 292 x 1000/cmm ESR: 12 mm/hr RF: <20.0 IU/mL Thank you, thank ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: A slightly low TSH usually indicates a tendency toward hyperthyroidism, but it does not necessarily mean true hyperthyroidism and may not produce symptoms. However, it requires monitoring.[Read More] Understanding Your Medical Test Results: A Guide to Key Indicators
Understanding Low TSH Levels: Implications and Treatment Options
Low TSH levels? Hello Dr. Yang, About five years ago, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and after three months of medication, I developed hypothyroidism. I promptly reduced my medication dosage and continued taking the medication for another three months, after which my docto...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: Normal T3 and T4 levels with a decrease in TSH indicate clinical hyperthyroidism. There is a possibility that hyperthyroidism may recur after some time, so monitoring is necessary. Currently, medication treatment may not be required.[Read More] Understanding Low TSH Levels: Implications and Treatment Options
Understanding Military Physical Exams: Liver Function Concerns and Costs
Regarding military service medical examinations? The examination report indicates that the reason for the undefined posture is due to elevated liver function indices, which are twice the normal level, leading to a diagnosis of cirrhosis or hepatitis. Due to certain factors, I do ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, according to the "Military Conscription Physical Examination Manual," for conscripts with cirrhosis or hepatitis, in addition to a physical examination, liver function tests (ALT or SGPT) must be conducted, and if necessary, a biopsy...[Read More] Understanding Military Physical Exams: Liver Function Concerns and Costs
Understanding Blood Test Results: Cholesterol, Gout, and Follow-Up Care
Blood draw issues? Hello, on May 19th, I had a health check-up, and the blood test report showed some concerning results: total cholesterol 125, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) 39, urine pH 7, and a positive reaction for occult blood. Does this indicate a risk for cardiovascular d...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. The essence of a health check-up is to screen for specific diseases or issues through certain tests or examinations, and if necessary, to conduct further evaluations or diagnoses. 2. Your total cholesterol level is 125 mg/dL, and your high...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Cholesterol, Gout, and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Adrenal Tumors: Symptoms, Treatment, and Family Risks
Adrenal adenoma issues? Hello Doctor: Last week, I went back to the neurology department to review my report, which indicated that my adrenal hormone levels are elevated. The doctor mentioned that this could likely be the reason for my hypertension at a young age. I have been tak...
Dr. Zhong Weisheng Reply:
Hello QQ: First, to answer your personal questions, 1. There are many causes of hypertension. Of course, in younger individuals, the occurrence of hypertension is significantly related to adrenal tumors. However, a definitive diagnosis must be made through various examinations (s...[Read More] Understanding Adrenal Tumors: Symptoms, Treatment, and Family Risks
Understanding Chronic Fatigue: When to Seek Medical Advice
Fatigue Hello doctor, I have been feeling very fatigued lately. I exercise regularly every week, but I still feel tired every time I wake up. I also get easily fatigued after walking a short distance, and I tire quickly during exercise, unlike before when I felt more energetic. W...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Fatigue is a common clinical symptom, and if it persists for an extended period, it may warrant further investigation. However, in such cases, most individuals typically have normal test results.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Fatigue: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Potassium-Deficient Muscle Disorders in Hyperthyroidism
Hypokalemic myopathy caused by hyperthyroidism? Hello Doctor. I had a question on October 14, 2006, which you kindly answered, helping my mother and me feel less anxious about her condition. For the past four months, my mother has been consistently taking her medications (Methima...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
It is quite common in clinical practice for patients to exhibit a tendency towards hypothyroidism while on the same dosage of medication. Management may involve temporarily discontinuing the medication or reducing the dosage, but it is essential to monitor thyroid function to adj...[Read More] Understanding Potassium-Deficient Muscle Disorders in Hyperthyroidism
Understanding Low Platelet Count: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns
A low platelet count, confirmed by bone marrow examination, indicates a viral infection? Hello Doctor: On December 27, 2006, I visited a dermatologist due to purple spots and some bruising on my body. The doctor suggested that I go to the hospital for a blood test, suspecting tha...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, 1. Regarding the low platelet count and accompanying purpura and bruising observed on December 27, 1995, common causes include liver dysfunction (cirrhosis), kidney dysfunction (dialysis), infections (viral infections, such as upper respiratory infections), hematol...[Read More] Understanding Low Platelet Count: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns
Understanding Oil Passage During Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns
Passing oil during flatulence or bowel movements? Hello Doctor: I sometimes experience oily discharge during gas or bowel movements, approximately once every month or two. I have undergone tests for stool and blood at the hospital, and the results were normal. The doctor only adv...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Passing oil during bowel movements can be related to several factors, including the use of weight loss medications and severe chronic pancreatitis, which is rare in Taiwan. Since your stool and blood test results are normal, it is likely related to your diet. If this condition pe...[Read More] Understanding Oil Passage During Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Chickenpox Antibodies: What Your Test Results Mean for Pregnancy
Varicella antibodies I had a varicella antibody test: CHICKEN POX IgG, with a result of 1175. The normal reference value is (-)<200 mIU/ml. The lab technician said I have antibodies, but I want to confirm whether I truly have antibodies because I am planning to get pregnant.
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. First, ask yourself or your family members if you have ever had chickenpox. If you have had it, there is no need to worry about transmitting it to the newborn during the perinatal period. If you have not had it, it indicates that you have recently received the ...[Read More] Understanding Chickenpox Antibodies: What Your Test Results Mean for Pregnancy
Understanding Uric Acid Levels: Do They Indicate Gout?
Uric acid Hello, I would like to ask about my previous foot pain. I went to see a doctor and the test results showed that my uric acid level is slightly higher than normal. Does this mean I have gout? Should I get another test done? Is gout a condition that can be completely cure...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: If the uric acid level is high along with typical symptoms of a gout attack, a diagnosis of gout can generally be made. However, if only the uric acid level is elevated without typical attacks, it cannot be diagnosed as gout. Most gout treatments are effective, and after a...[Read More] Understanding Uric Acid Levels: Do They Indicate Gout?
Understanding Elevated BUN Levels and Foamy Urine: Kidney Health Insights
Elevated BUN levels and foamy urine during a health check-up..? Hello Dr. Wu, I have some questions I would like to ask you! Recently, I have noticed bubbles in my urine, and there are quite a few. In September of this year, I underwent a simple blood test and urinalysis. The te...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
First of all, thank you for your question. Based on your inquiry, I will explain in three parts: 1. The blood test indices (serum urea nitrogen and creatinine) typically begin with an assessment of the creatinine level, which has a normal range of approximately 0.7-1.3 mg/dL (t...[Read More] Understanding Elevated BUN Levels and Foamy Urine: Kidney Health Insights
Am I Diabetic? Understanding Your Blood Sugar Test Results
Could you please let me know if my condition is diabetes? Hello Doctor: I just had a blood test, and the results show that my blood sugar level two hours after eating is 129 mg/dL, which exceeds 120. Should I be concerned about having diabetes? Thank you.
Dr. Shi Guangzhong Reply:
Dear A-Zhi: The diagnostic criteria for diabetes are as follows: fasting blood glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL, 2 hours postprandial blood glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL, and random blood glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL. Therefore, based on your test result of 129 mg/dL, it does not indicate diabetes. However, a s...[Read More] Am I Diabetic? Understanding Your Blood Sugar Test Results
Understanding High Uric Acid Levels: Health Impacts and Dietary Solutions
Hyperuricemia The blood test results indicate a total cholesterol level of 201, triglycerides at 69, blood urea nitrogen at 11.4, creatinine at 0.9, and uric acid at 7.5. Elevated uric acid levels can lead to health issues such as gout, which is characterized by painful joint inf...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hyperuricemia can lead to gout, but the likelihood of a gout attack due to mild elevations in uric acid is low. Avoiding high-purine foods can help lower uric acid levels in the blood. High-purine foods include organ meats, seafood, legumes, and meat gravies.[Read More] Understanding High Uric Acid Levels: Health Impacts and Dietary Solutions
Understanding Elevated Creatinine and Positive Leukocytes in Urine Tests
A serum creatinine level of 1.4 and a positive leukocyte test in urine may indicate potential kidney dysfunction and the presence of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or inflammation. The elevated creatinine suggests impaired kidney function, while the positive leukocytes in urine ...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the report mentions a mildly positive urine leukocyte count and a creatinine level of 1.4. Given your height and weight, a creatinine level of 1.4 is slightly elevated compared to normal values. The creatinine level is related to the amount of...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine and Positive Leukocytes in Urine Tests
Understanding Kidney Function and Health Risks: A Patient's Guide
Kidney Disease Consultation I previously underwent a health check at a laboratory, and my test results showed cholesterol: 230 mg/dL, creatinine: 1.7 mg/dL, uric acid: 8.5 mg/dL, potassium: 2.9 mmol/L, and urine protein: ++. I would like to ask the doctor how much kidney function...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the tests listed in your inquiry can diagnose chronic kidney disease, hyperlipidemia, hyperuricemia, hypokalemia, and hypertension. Kidney disease is related to hypertension, and additionally, diet, medications, systemic diseases, and autoimmu...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function and Health Risks: A Patient's Guide