Understanding Tulip 20mg: Safety, Efficacy, and Alternatives for Cholesterol Management
Regarding Tofacitinib Extended-Release Tablets A 72-year-old female, 158 cm tall and weighing 53 kg, currently has low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol at 134.5 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol at 55.1 mg/dL, and triglycerides at 59.2 mg/dL. She has no other...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
It is correct that medications should be used carefully, and they are generally considered safe. Whether to discontinue medication and address subsequent issues will depend on the patient's condition moving forward, which should be discussed with your physician. The primary ...[Read More] Understanding Tulip 20mg: Safety, Efficacy, and Alternatives for Cholesterol Management
Understanding Your Health Check Report: Kidney and Liver Concerns Explained
Medical Examination Report Today I received my health check report, which indicates that I have vasculitis. My blood test shows a white blood cell count of 10.4, with the rest being normal. My liver and gallbladder function tests show GGT at 104 and triglycerides at 205, with the...
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
Please make an appointment for an outpatient consultation.[Read More] Understanding Your Health Check Report: Kidney and Liver Concerns Explained
Understanding Proteinuria: What Your Health Check Results Mean
Health check-up: Proteinuria I have vasculitis and mild arrhythmia, and I am taking immunosuppressive medication, anti-inflammatory drugs, and anti-arrhythmic medication. I recently had a check-up, but I couldn't understand the report as the doctor was in a hurry and told me...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
If there are concerns about liver function, please consult a gastroenterologist. Urine protein is 1+, and it is recommended to visit a nephrologist for further testing. Wishing you good health and safety.[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria: What Your Health Check Results Mean
Managing High Cholesterol: Should You Choose Medication or Lifestyle Changes?
High cholesterol I have had high cholesterol issues since childhood. After taking lipid-lowering medication for about a year, my cholesterol levels returned to normal. My doctor believes I can try stopping the medication. Since stopping, I have been exercising regularly and follo...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Fei: 1. According to the regulations of our national health insurance, patients with cardiovascular diseases or diabetes whose total cholesterol level exceeds 160 mg/dL or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) exceeds 100 mg/dL may be eligible for pharmacological ...[Read More] Managing High Cholesterol: Should You Choose Medication or Lifestyle Changes?
Managing High Uric Acid and Cholesterol Levels: Dietary Tips and Concerns
Health check shows elevated uric acid and cholesterol levels? Hello Doctor: I recently had a health check, and my uric acid level is 7.1, which is above the normal range. Isn't the normal value for women supposed to be less than 6.6? I currently do not have any symptoms of g...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Kiki: 1. Elevated uric acid levels primarily refer to high concentrations of uric acid in the blood. When uric acid precipitates in joint tissues (such as the big toe joint, the back of the foot, or finger joints), it can trigger an inflammatory response, leading to go...[Read More] Managing High Uric Acid and Cholesterol Levels: Dietary Tips and Concerns
Managing High Uric Acid and Cholesterol Levels: Dietary Tips and Concerns
Health check shows elevated uric acid and cholesterol levels? Hello Doctor: I recently had a health check-up, and my uric acid level is 7.1, which is above the normal range. Isn't the normal value for women supposed to be less than 6.6? I currently do not have any symptoms o...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. KiKi: 1. Elevated uric acid levels primarily refer to high concentrations of uric acid in the blood. If uric acid precipitates in joint tissues (such as the big toe joint, the back of the foot, or finger joints), it can trigger an inflammatory response, leading to gout....[Read More] Managing High Uric Acid and Cholesterol Levels: Dietary Tips and Concerns
Understanding the Discrepancy Between Blood Glucose Meter and Lab Results
Questions about blood glucose meters? Hello Doctor: Recently, a family member noticed that urination attracted ants, so they went to the clinic for a blood test. On the same day, after the nurse drew blood, she used the venous blood to measure fasting blood glucose with a Roche A...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Wang Su-Chen: 1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association, a. a fasting plasma glucose level of ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for more than 8 hours, b. a 2-hour plasma glucose level of ≥200 mg/dL during an oral glucose tolera...[Read More] Understanding the Discrepancy Between Blood Glucose Meter and Lab Results
Understanding Creatinine Levels and Kidney Function Concerns
Creatinine and Kidney Function Related Issues Hello, Doctor. I apologize for the lengthy description of my issue. Here are the results from my blood and urine tests conducted at the clinic two weeks ago: Fasting blood glucose: 100 mg/dL (reference range: 70-100) Blood urea ni...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on your description, your creatinine level is 1.34 mg/dL (reference range 0.7-1.5), and your glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is 66.9 (reference value > 60). Given your age, your GFR is slightly low, and the most common risk factors affecting kidney function are hyperten...[Read More] Understanding Creatinine Levels and Kidney Function Concerns
Understanding Proteinuria and Elevated Blood Sugar: A Guide for Patients
Urinary protein and blood glucose? A few days ago, my father went to the clinic for a blood test, and the results are as follows: Urine protein 1+, fasting blood glucose 125 mg/dL (after fasting for just over 7 hours), total cholesterol 127 mg/dL, triglycerides 229 mg/dL, HDL 39....
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, In response to your father's concerns, here are my replies: First, regarding the protein in urine, the clinic report indicates a preliminary positive result. It is recommended to visit a larger hospital for a quantitative urine protein test, and possibly a 24-hour ...[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria and Elevated Blood Sugar: A Guide for Patients
Managing Acid Reflux: Symptoms, Treatment, and Diabetes Concerns
Excess stomach acid Hello, doctor. I previously underwent an endoscopy which showed that my gastrointestinal tract is generally fine, but I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). I have been taking Pantoprazole for a month, but I occasionally experience acid reflux, a burni...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Ellis: 1. Nexium® (generic name: Esomeprazole) is indicated for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Possible side effects include abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, nausea, dry mouth, headache, drowsiness, allergic reactions, fever, and others. Genera...[Read More] Managing Acid Reflux: Symptoms, Treatment, and Diabetes Concerns
Managing Diabetes: Weight Loss, Cholesterol Levels, and Health Concerns
Regarding issues related to diabetes..? Hello, Director. I would like to ask about my health situation. I was diagnosed with diabetes on April 27. My blood test results on that date showed: fasting blood glucose 204 mg/dL, postprandial blood glucose 250 mg/dL, HbA1c 8.3%, total c...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Ah-Chiang: 1. Your original weight was 108 kg, height 180 cm, resulting in a body mass index (BMI) of 33.3 kg/m², which classifies you as obese. Due to insulin resistance, you are at an increased risk for type 2 diabetes. Non-pharmacological treatments for weight loss i...[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Weight Loss, Cholesterol Levels, and Health Concerns
Understanding Upper Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
Regarding sharp pain in the right upper abdomen? Hello, Dr. Hsiao. I have been experiencing a sudden feeling of hunger shortly after meals, which feels somewhat like an empty stomach sensation without the typical stomach growling. If I eat too quickly, I might even feel hungry ha...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Shi: 1. Regarding your upper right abdominal pain, I believe it may be what is commonly referred to as side stitch, as mentioned in my response on June 27, 2016. Therefore, I recommend that you consult a coach to learn proper breathing techniques while running to avoid ...[Read More] Understanding Upper Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Doctor's Decisions on Medication Adjustments for Lipid Levels
I would like to understand issues related to medication prescribed by doctors? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my condition. I have been taking lipid-lowering medication for some time, and my last blood test results were as follows: the dosage is 10 mg taken every two day...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: The decision regarding medication treatment is made by the physician based on a comprehensive assessment of the patient's condition and health insurance regulations.[Read More] Understanding Doctor's Decisions on Medication Adjustments for Lipid Levels
Understanding Cholesterol: Debunking Myths for Diabetics
Cholesterol issues Hello Dr. Hsiao: I have diabetes, and my total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides are all elevated. Both my doctor and diabetes health literature suggest that I should not consume too many high-cholesterol foods. However, I came across an article o...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Essentially, there are many articles online with a diverse theoretical foundation; although they have their sources and basis, I prefer not to comment on them personally. 2. According to current research reports, the sources of cholesterol indeed include dietary intake and e...[Read More] Understanding Cholesterol: Debunking Myths for Diabetics
Managing Hunger and Diabetes: Understanding Blood Sugar Control and Weight Loss
Annoying hunger pangs Hello Doctor, in November 2014, during my health check-up, the doctor diagnosed me with diabetes (fasting blood sugar of 136 after 8 hours, HbA1c of 6.9). The doctor did not prescribe any medication but advised me to buy a blood glucose monitor for self-moni...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. Your blood sugar is under control, but this does not mean that diabetes has been cured. 2. Regarding hunger, it is initially recommended to consume foods that are filling yet low in calories. For detailed advice, it is suggested that you consult a nutritionist at a hosp...[Read More] Managing Hunger and Diabetes: Understanding Blood Sugar Control and Weight Loss
How to Effectively Manage Blood Sugar Levels: Tips and Insights
How to control blood sugar levels? Hello Dr. Hsiao, On July 9, 2015, I had a blood test that showed a blood sugar level of 124. Additionally, my triglycerides and LDL cholesterol were elevated. At that time, my weight was 91 kg, and I currently weigh 84 kg. I measure my fasting ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. On July 9, 2015, your fasting blood glucose level was found to be 124 mg/dL; your lipid levels and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol were elevated. At that time, your weight was 91 kg, and it is now 84 kg. Currently, your average fasting blood glucose levels after 8 ho...[Read More] How to Effectively Manage Blood Sugar Levels: Tips and Insights
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 Low Triglycerides: Health Impacts and Solutions
Low triglycerides? During our recent health check-up, it was pointed out that our triglyceride levels are low. Could you please explain what effects low triglyceride levels may have on the body? Additionally, how can we address this issue to bring the levels back to normal? Thank...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Gloria: Low triglyceride levels may be caused by dietary restrictions or malnutrition. Are you currently on a diet for weight loss? It is advisable to consult a physician for treatment if there are any concerns.[Read More] Understanding Low Triglycerides: Health Impacts and Solutions
Understanding Biochemical Reports: Managing Diabetes and Kidney Health
Family's biochemical report Hello Dr. Wu, I consulted with you in February this year, and today I am attaching more biochemical report data for your explanation. My father is 60 years old today and has been suffering from diabetes and kidney stones for a long time. He was or...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
My father is 60 years old today and has long been troubled by diabetes and kidney stones. He has been seeing a family medicine doctor, but for some reason, his case has been referred to a nephrologist. I have attached the examination reports from February of this year to the pres...[Read More] Understanding Biochemical Reports: Managing Diabetes and Kidney Health
Understanding Abnormal Kidney Function: What You Need to Know
Is there any abnormality in kidney function? Hello, Doctor. Last July, I had a urinalysis that showed hematuria and proteinuria, both positive. In August, I went to another hospital for another urine test, and again, there were reactions for hematuria and proteinuria. After blood...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. First, let's discuss the risk factors for kidney disease: the three highs (hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia) and proteinuria. Based on the data you provided: Blood Pressure??? Blood Glucose (GLU AC) 89 mg/dL: OK; Lipid Profile Cholesterol 224 mg/dL: borderl...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Kidney Function: What You Need to Know