Understanding White Particles in Urine: Is It Normal?
Urine with suspended particles? Hello Doctor, I am 155 cm tall and currently weigh 57 kg. During my recent urine tests, I noticed that my urine has a whitish sediment. Is this normal? Also, is my uric acid level high? Here are the results from my most recent urine test: Blood Ure...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Hello, based on the information you provided, most of the results appear to be normal. However, some aspects of the urinalysis (such as the microscopic examination) were not listed, making it difficult to assess. If you continue to notice any suspended particles, you should consu...[Read More] Understanding White Particles in Urine: Is It Normal?
Is a Creatinine Level of 0.8 mg/dL Considered Normal?
Creatinine 0.8 Is my creatinine level of 0.8 considered normal?
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. If your age-adjusted glomerular filtration rate is 82 ml/min/1.73 m² (calculated using the MDRD formula), it is slightly below 90 ml/min/1.73 m²; however, this alone should not be used to conclude that there is a problem (as this formula was developed from studies conducted ab...[Read More] Is a Creatinine Level of 0.8 mg/dL Considered Normal?
Understanding Diabetes: Symptoms, Testing, and Risk Factors Explained
Diabetes concerns? Hello Dr. Lee: In the past month, I have noticed persistent bubbles in my urine and have experienced increased urinary frequency, especially 2 to 3 hours after consuming sugary drinks, along with nocturia. I am concerned about kidney disease or diabetes. Last w...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you consult an endocrinologist for further examination to determine your current condition. As for the causes of diabetes, there are many factors beyond diet, including genetic factors, lifestyle, lack of exercise, and more. The endocrinologist will ...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Symptoms, Testing, and Risk Factors Explained
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 Oil Layer on Urine: Causes and Health Implications
The urine has a layer of oil? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a sensation I have when urinating, where there seems to be a layer of floating oil, but I don't feel any discomfort. In previous examinations, they said everything was fine, but it has been several years, ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you undergo a routine urinalysis (avoiding the menstrual period) to determine if there are any abnormalities.[Read More] Understanding Oil Layer on Urine: Causes and Health Implications
Understanding Renal Vascular Calcification: Causes and Implications
Renal vascular calcification Doctor, I previously underwent a health check-up at the hospital where I had an abdominal X-ray and a kidney ultrasound. The kidney ultrasound results were normal, but the abdominal X-ray indicated vascular calcification in the kidneys. Could you plea...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on the information provided, we are unable to address your medical condition. We recommend that you consult a nephrologist for blood tests to check your "creatinine" levels and a urinalysis to clarify the issue. Thank you for your inquiry. The Nephrology Departmen...[Read More] Understanding Renal Vascular Calcification: Causes and Implications
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain Below the Navel: Possible Causes
Just below the navel? Hello doctor, sometimes I experience pulling pain just below my navel (about four fingerbreadths down) when I exert myself, especially noticeable and painful when using the restroom. In everyday positions, if I stretch my abdominal muscles, it also hurts. Ta...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Common causes of lower abdominal pain: 1. Gastrointestinal system: acute gastroenteritis, appendicitis, bowel obstruction, diverticulitis, intestinal perforation, constipation, etc. 2. Urinary system: renal colic, urinary tract infection, acute urinary retention, etc. 3. Reproduc...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain Below the Navel: Possible Causes
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 Kidney Pain and Unpleasant Urine Odor: Symptoms Explained
I feel like there is a problem with my kidneys? Hello doctor, recently I have been experiencing occasional sharp pain in my left lower back, approximately where the kidney is located, and my urine has a foul odor. What could these symptoms indicate?
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Regarding the pain you mentioned in the left lower back, which is approximately where the kidney is located, along with the occasional sharp pain and foul-smelling urine, it is possible that you may be experiencing kidney inflammation, stones, or other issues. It is advisable to ...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Pain and Unpleasant Urine Odor: Symptoms Explained
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
Understanding Rhabdomyolysis: Symptoms, Risks, and When to Seek Help
Rhabdomyolysis Hello Dr. Wu, I would like to ask the following question. As an avid runner, I suspect that I might have rhabdomyolysis. I researched related symptoms online and my reasons for suspicion are as follows: Recently, I have been running and walking approximately 30 kil...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Hello, RC: 1. "Because of hematuria, I visited the urology department at Mackay Memorial Hospital last week, and I have completed a urinalysis (which showed a positive reaction for blood)..." Here, "positive reaction for blood" refers to either the presence ...[Read More] Understanding Rhabdomyolysis: Symptoms, Risks, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Microscopic Hematuria, Glucose, and Protein in Urine
Microscopic hematuria, glucose, and protein in the urine? Dr. Lee: Hello! I had a pre-employment physical examination on May 20, and on May 29, the report indicated that I had microscopic hematuria at 3+. I went for another urinalysis on May 31, and today, June 6, I received the ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello Yu-Yan: If your tests were not conducted during your menstrual period, based on the report results, there is indeed a need to suspect the possibility of kidney disease (urinary tract disorders) and diabetes. However, further examinations are necessary; the diagnosis of diab...[Read More] Understanding Microscopic Hematuria, Glucose, and Protein in Urine
Understanding Excessive Urination: Causes and Concerns Explained
Regarding issues related to urine output? I often feel that I have a large urine output, with a daily intake of at least 1500 to 2500 cc and a drinking volume of about 2000 cc. I went to a urologist for a urinalysis, and aside from a urine specific gravity of 1.003, everything el...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. According to your description of "at least 1500 to 2500 cc per day" and "not urinating much if drinking little or no water," both are normal phenomena. 2. The human body has a self-regulating mechanism; more fluid intake leads to more urination, while less...[Read More] Understanding Excessive Urination: Causes and Concerns Explained
Understanding Urine Test Results: RBC, WBC, and Epithelial Cells Explained
Urine (red blood cells, white blood cells, epithelial cells) related issues? Hello Director Hsiao, my mother is 64 years old. Recently, she underwent blood and urine health examinations. Among the urine test results, three items were noted: red blood cells (RBC) were 0-1, white b...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Urinalysis specimen collection is typically performed by the patient, who collects urine in a test tube. After centrifugation, the laboratory technician extracts the sediment and examines it under high power field (HPF, approximately 400X) microscopy. Red blood cells (RBC) 0-1:...[Read More] Understanding Urine Test Results: RBC, WBC, and Epithelial Cells Explained
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 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
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 Proteinuria in Teenagers: Causes and Concerns
Dear Doctor, why do I easily have proteinuria? Hello, I am a 17-year-old male. I have been experiencing proteinuria (+~++) for about a year. During this time, I have visited three major hospitals for diagnosis. I have undergone blood tests to assess kidney function and a 24-hour ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello, I am a nephrologist who relies on "tests (blood and urine tests, X-rays)" and "machines (dialysis machines)" to make a living... This is purely a joke (any resemblance is coincidental), but it does highlight the concerns of nephrologists and patients wi...[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria in Teenagers: Causes and Concerns
Monitoring RA: The Role of Anti-CCP and RF in Disease Management
Monitoring of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) condition? Hello, Doctor Gao. When I was diagnosed with RA, in addition to multiple joints being inflamed and painful, my test results showed anti-CCP (>3+, strongly positive), RF (-), and ESR (+). After the diagnosis, the hospital infor...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. In principle, for rheumatoid arthritis, blood tests are typically done every three months, unless there is a change in medication and there are concerns about potential side effects, in which case blood tests may be scheduled every two weeks to...[Read More] Monitoring RA: The Role of Anti-CCP and RF in Disease Management