Understanding Kidney Aging: What You Need to Know
The kidneys are showing signs of aging? Hello, I had a health check-up at Changhua Show Chwan Hospital yesterday, and during the abdominal ultrasound, it was found that my kidneys show some signs of aging. What should I do about this?
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
"During a health check-up, an abdominal ultrasound revealed slight aging of the kidneys." The physician likely observed increased echogenicity in the images and recommended blood tests to assess kidney function and urinalysis for further clarification.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Aging: What You Need to Know
Understanding Renal Pelvic Dilation: Causes, Concerns, and Management
Pelvic dilation Dear Doctor, I undergo an abdominal ultrasound examination every year, and the results have always been normal. However, this time, a different physician performed the ultrasound and noted some mild hydronephrosis in my kidneys. Is hydronephrosis considered a dise...
Dr. Sun Yizhen Reply:
Hello, you're welcome! Mild hydronephrosis can sometimes be a normal variation, meaning that the person's collecting system and kidneys may appear relatively larger. However, if the dilation persists and progresses to hydronephrosis, it would be considered abnormal. It ...[Read More] Understanding Renal Pelvic Dilation: Causes, Concerns, and Management
Unexplained Swelling in Legs: Causes and When to Seek Help
Unexplained edema? Hello, doctor: My mother is currently 51 years old and has a history of hypertension. She has been taking medication regularly to control her blood pressure. However, for the past two weeks, she has been experiencing swelling in both legs, and when pressed, the...
Dr. Yang Zhongwei Reply:
Hello! The main causes of bilateral leg edema include the following: 1. Renal origin: This includes nephrotic syndrome and chronic kidney failure. Urinalysis should be performed to check for proteinuria, and blood tests to assess kidney function are necessary. 2. Hepatic origin: ...[Read More] Unexplained Swelling in Legs: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Persistent Left-Sided Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Chronic low back pain Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing lower back pain for two months now. The pain is particularly noticeable on the left side, but it is not unbearable and does not worsen significantly with sitting or lying down. However, there have been two instances whe...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Common examinations for low back pain in nephrology: 1. Urinalysis: This can initially determine whether the low back pain is caused by a disease. The presence of red blood cells in the urine may indicate kidney or ureteral stones, and in rare cases, tumors; the presence of white...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Left-Sided Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Health Issues: What Do Bloodshot Eyes and Pain Indicate?
Could you please tell me which part of the body is experiencing issues? (Asking on behalf of a friend) Hello, Dr. Hsiao! I have a friend who works 12-hour night shifts. Recently, I've noticed some slight redness in her eyes, and they appear a bit yellowish. She occasionally ...
Dr. Xiao Jingqin Reply:
The sclera on the inner side of the eyeball contains a rich network of blood vessels. People often mistakenly assume that a slight yellowing, especially when the blood vessels are congested or there is some subcutaneous bleeding, indicates jaundice caused by liver disease. Howeve...[Read More] Understanding Health Issues: What Do Bloodshot Eyes and Pain Indicate?
Understanding Kidney Displacement: Potential Risks and Complications
About the kidneys? I recently experienced a sensation of something in my left kidney. After undergoing a urethrogram, it was found that only my right kidney is slightly displaced. What potential complications could arise from this? During a previous examination, the doctor mentio...
Dr. Yao Quan Reply:
Dear Ms. Lin, Hello! According to your letter, your intravenous pyelography revealed that your right kidney is descended, but your symptoms are occurring on the left side (where you often feel something in the left kidney area). You did not mention whether there are any symptoms...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Displacement: Potential Risks and Complications
Understanding Frequent Urination: When to See a Urologist or Nephrologist
Frequent urination Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been going to the bathroom every 40-60 minutes. Sometimes I experience pain in my left lower back. I drink very little water, but after urinating, I still feel the urge to urinate, yet I cannot. Generally, the volume of urine is n...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Either urology or nephrology is acceptable. 2. Generally, a urinalysis is required first to check for inflammation or stones. 3. Additionally, a renal ultrasound examination can be arranged.[Read More] Understanding Frequent Urination: When to See a Urologist or Nephrologist
Understanding Edema: Which Specialist to Consult and Testing Tips
Symptoms of edema? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you... 1. Recently, I went for a health check-up at the hospital, and the doctor mentioned that I have edema. I researched some information online and learned that there are many causes of edema. Before confirming the cause of...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. The causes of edema involve organs such as the kidneys, heart, and liver, so a nephrology evaluation should be considered first. 2. If a urine test is required, it is advisable to avoid the menstrual period.[Read More] Understanding Edema: Which Specialist to Consult and Testing Tips
Understanding Foamy Urine: Is It a Sign of Kidney Issues?
The presence of many bubbles in urine during urination may indicate a potential issue with the kidneys? When urinating, if you notice a lot of bubbles in the urine and feel something hard on the left side of your abdomen, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Thes...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello, men who are afraid of injury: Foamy urine may indicate proteinuria, but it can also be normal. A simple urinalysis can determine this. If there is suspicion of an abdominal mass, you should consult a physician for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Foamy Urine: Is It a Sign of Kidney Issues?
Is Weight Loss a Key Indicator of Diabetes Symptoms?
Symptoms of diabetes? Hello doctor, is weight loss an important indicator of diabetes? My friend noticed that I have increased thirst, excessive eating, and frequent urination (especially noticeable). One day, I recorded that I go to the bathroom every class (about once an hour),...
Dr. Shi Guangzhong Reply:
There are many reasons for abnormal weight loss. In addition to diabetes, conditions such as hyperthyroidism and malignant tumors should also be considered. You are 18 years old, and your body mass index (BMI) is 26.8 kg/m², which classifies you as overweight but not yet obese (B...[Read More] Is Weight Loss a Key Indicator of Diabetes Symptoms?
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
Finding the Right Specialist for Complex Abdominal Symptoms
Finding the right physician for treatment? My mother is currently 73 years old and has diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension, which she manages with regular doctor visits and medication. This year, she has experienced discomfort in two areas of her body. The first issue is th...
Dr. Xiao Jingqin Reply:
The patient's primary pain is located in the lower abdomen, and it worsens with walking. They also experience loss of appetite and a tendency to feel bloated, which may not necessarily indicate a gastric issue. If we narrow down the problem to the lower abdomen, potentially ...[Read More] Finding the Right Specialist for Complex Abdominal Symptoms
Understanding Left-Sided Lower Back Pain: Possible Kidney Issues?
Lower back pain? I have pain on the left side of my lower back extending at a 45-degree angle to my spine. I feel soreness in certain positions, but the right side is fine. Recently, I noticed some swelling. Four months ago, I had a record of high protein in my urine. I would lik...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Hello: To determine if there is kidney disease, a urinalysis can provide the necessary information. The cause of low back pain is often related to poor posture, resulting in neuromuscular pain. Correcting posture and the use of analgesics can lead to improvement. Another cause is...[Read More] Understanding Left-Sided Lower Back Pain: Possible Kidney Issues?
Understanding Blood in Urine: Causes, Concerns, and Next Steps
Hematuria Hello, I previously experienced hematuria (visible blood in urine) and consulted a doctor. After a urinalysis, the doctor diagnosed me with a urinary tract infection and prescribed antibiotics. A month and a half later, I underwent another urinalysis, which showed no in...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question regarding hematuria, the most common causes are urinary tract infections or urinary stones. The first occurrence of gross hematuria is likely due to hemorrhagic cystitis. After the infection symptoms resolve, the presence of 5-10 red blood cell...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Urine: Causes, Concerns, and Next Steps
Understanding Medication Side Effects: When to See a Specialist
Some reactions after medication use? Hello, doctor: Due to insomnia, I have been taking the sleeping pills prescribed by you every night before bed. However, recently I have been experiencing frequent pain in the left kidney area upon waking up in the morning, along with numbness...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. A renal ultrasound can be arranged. 2. A urinalysis can be arranged. General kidney area pain should first rule out issues such as infection or stones before considering other conditions.[Read More] Understanding Medication Side Effects: When to See a Specialist
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Bloating and Cramping in Young Adults
Left lower abdominal bloating and cramping? Dear Dr. Hsiao, My 22-year-old daughter has been experiencing bloating and cramping pain in her lower left abdomen for the past two weeks. She has noticed a decrease in her bowel movements and feels as though she cannot fully relieve h...
Dr. Xiao Jingqin Reply:
Left lower abdominal pain should be considered based on the involved organs, including the colon, urinary system, and gynecological organs such as the ovaries or uterus. Currently, a urinalysis has been performed, and a gynecological ultrasound has generally ruled out issues rela...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Bloating and Cramping in Young Adults
Seeking Help for My Mother's Severe Kidney and Back Pain
I am here to help, as I cannot bear to see my mother in so much pain? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask you, in the past week, my mother has been experiencing severe pain in her kidneys and both sides of her lower back. The pain is so intense that she can't sit or stand comf...
Dr. Yao Quan Reply:
Ms. Li: Hello! Generally speaking, for patients with lower back pain, if kidney issues are ruled out after examination, we usually consider skeletal or muscular disorders. Therefore, further tests such as X-rays of the spine may be conducted. Regarding your mother’s condition, yo...[Read More] Seeking Help for My Mother's Severe Kidney and Back Pain
Understanding Vasculitis: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Vasculitis Hello Dr. Tseng, I previously had 2 to 3 instances where reddish-brown spots appeared on my hands and feet. I visited a dermatologist, who diagnosed me with vasculitis. They conducted blood tests and a urinalysis, and the results indicated that my immune system activit...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on your description, the likelihood of vasculitis is quite high, and further examination is recommended. 2. There should be no correlation with sexual activity or peeling skin. Sincerely, Dr. Tseng Kuo-Sen, Internal Medicine.[Read More] Understanding Vasculitis: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Strong Urine Odor: Causes and Concerns
Strong urine odor? My urine has a very strong odor, with an indescribable unusual scent, somewhat resembling a hint of fishiness. However, I have not experienced this before; it has only been occurring for the past year or so. My lifestyle and dietary habits have not changed, eve...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hello FIFI: Urine naturally has a scent, but if there is an "abnormal" odor related to food, medications, or endocrine issues, please visit a nephrology clinic for a urinalysis.[Read More] Understanding Strong Urine Odor: Causes and Concerns
Could My Symptoms Indicate Diabetes? Understanding Causes and Treatments
Is it diabetes? Hello Doctor: Since November, I have been experiencing hematuria. X-rays and ultrasounds showed no stones and were normal. Urinalysis results indicated the presence of white blood cells and red blood cells. The doctor mentioned it might be urethritis. Additionally...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the diagnostic criteria for diabetes are generally as follows: 1. A fasting plasma glucose level of greater than or equal to 126 mg/dL after fasting for at least 8 hours. 2. The presence of clinical symptoms of diabetes such as polyuria, polyd...[Read More] Could My Symptoms Indicate Diabetes? Understanding Causes and Treatments