Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Left lower abdominal pain/bloating/nausea? Hello Dr. Chen: I am a transportation industry worker and would like to ask you about the left lower abdominal pain I started experiencing last Sunday afternoon. I visited the gastroenterology department at National Taiwan University Hos...
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
You should see a doctor; it's advisable to consult a gastroenterologist first. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
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 Gonorrhea: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
About Gonorrhea Hello Doctor, I accidentally encountered a risky situation before, and afterwards I experienced painful urination. The pain during urination has resolved, but I have been experiencing persistent pain in my inner thigh and groin area for two months, and I have not ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, 1. First, let’s introduce gonorrhea based on information from the Centers for Disease Control: (A) Transmission: The primary mode of transmission for gonorrhea is through sexual intercourse. It can also be transmitted if an open wound comes into direct contact wi...[Read More] Understanding Gonorrhea: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
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
Understanding Diabetes Risk: Home Testing vs. Professional Evaluation
Concerns about diabetes? I have a family history of diabetes; my father and grandmother have it, while my mother's side only has my grandmother. When I was a freshman in college, I had a health check-up, and my fasting blood glucose level was 105 mg/dL, with no glucose in my...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Fasting blood glucose levels between 100 and 126 mg/dL indicate impaired fasting glucose, while levels above 126 mg/dL are diagnostic for diabetes. Blood test results are generally more accurate. Capillary blood glucose readings can also be referenced. Individuals with impaired f...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Risk: Home Testing vs. Professional Evaluation
Defining Substantial Renal Pathology in Alternative Military Service Standards
The definition of substantial renal pathology during alternative military service suspension? I apologize for the inquiry, Dr. Wu, regarding the standards for alternative military service suspension. The criteria state "pathological examination of the kidneys shows significa...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Based on the two reports you provided, which indicate "hematuria + proteinuria" in the urine and a serum creatinine level showing "glomerular filtration rate of 82-77 ml/min/1.7 m²," there is indeed a need to suspect the presence of significant renal pathol...[Read More] Defining Substantial Renal Pathology in Alternative Military Service Standards
Understanding Right Flank Pain: When to Consult a Nephrologist
It is unclear whether this phenomenon is related to renal pathology? Hello, I have been experiencing a dull ache and discomfort in my right lower back every morning upon waking up for the past week. I do not have any urgency to urinate or any other urinary symptoms. I'm unsu...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear You-Hsin, Hello. The causes of low back pain (also known as lumbago) are approximately 97% due to mechanical factors, including muscle strains, sprains, and spinal issues. Among these, over 70% are due to lumbar sprains, 4% are due to herniated discs, and 1% are due to non-...[Read More] Understanding Right Flank Pain: When to Consult a Nephrologist
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
How to Lower Creatinine and Improve GFR: Expert Insights
Kidney function issues? Dr. Wang, how can I lower my creatinine level of 1.1 and improve my glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 82.5? Thank you.
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Mr. Chen: Hello, in general, individuals without proteinuria have a normal serum creatinine level of 0.4-1.2 mg/dL, and a glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) >80 ml/min is considered normal. Tips for protecting kidney function: ● Four "no's" and one "none&quo...[Read More] How to Lower Creatinine and Improve GFR: Expert Insights
Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Kidney Health Concerns Explained
This morning, I went for a fasting blood draw, and after receiving the report, I found that my creatinine level is slightly elevated? Hello Doctor, I submitted a question on October 12 (you replied on October 14). This morning, I went to the lab on an empty stomach to have blood ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello: Creatinine: 1.24, GFR 81.64, which is not far from the normal value of 90. This could be due to fluctuations in test results or may indicate a mild issue. It is recommended to have regular blood tests for monitoring (every six months or annually). Additionally, regarding y...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Kidney Health Concerns Explained
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
Understanding Foamy Urine After Meals: Is It a Kidney Concern?
Foamy urine is more noticeable after meals? Hello, I previously had a record of urine protein ++ during a health check. This year, I visited a nephrologist who examined my urine and stated that there was no protein present, and my blood protein levels were also not lower than nor...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
There are many substances that can cause an increase in bubbles in urine, commonly referred to as foamy urine, among which protein is more closely related to body health. Therefore, physicians only need to determine if you have proteinuria for diagnosis. Normal individuals may oc...[Read More] Understanding Foamy Urine After Meals: Is It a Kidney Concern?
Understanding Heavy Metal Toxicity: Detection, Detoxification, and Treatment
Heavy metal concerns? Hello: Due to modern dietary habits, people may ingest heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and mercury. I would like to ask: 1. Does the human body have the ability to excrete heavy metals on its own? 2. What foods or drinks can help accelerate the excretion...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. The human body can excrete heavy metals on its own, but the amount and speed of excretion can vary. Dietary interventions or other methods may not significantly increase the rate of excretion, and the key point in heavy metal poisoning is not the speed of excretion but rather ...[Read More] Understanding Heavy Metal Toxicity: Detection, Detoxification, and Treatment
Antibiotics and Grapefruit Juice: A Risky Combination?
Antibiotics + Grapefruit Juice A few days ago, I had a fever. I took antibiotics in the morning, and three and a half hours later, I drank grapefruit juice. Within a few minutes, I started experiencing abdominal pain and had two episodes of diarrhea. At that time, there were sign...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Q1: A few days ago, I had a fever. After taking antibiotics in the morning, I started experiencing abdominal pain within a few minutes and had two episodes of diarrhea. At this point, there are signs of gastrointestinal inflammation. Additionally, I noticed inflammation at the ur...[Read More] Antibiotics and Grapefruit Juice: A Risky Combination?
Understanding Kidney Issues: Proteinuria and Hematuria Concerns
Kidney problems Hello, Doctor: 1. Is a urine protein level of 180 mg/L considered normal? (The reference value is 150 mg/L.) 2. However, I have a urine occult blood result of 4+. Is this related to excessive masturbation? After drinking more water, the color of my urine became ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Is a urine protein level of 180 mg/L considered normal? (The reference value is 150 mg/gm. Since 180 > 150 mg/gm, it cannot be considered normal. However, this slightly elevated physiological urine protein may occur after intense exercise. It is recommended to retest later....[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: Proteinuria and Hematuria Concerns
Why Is My Urine Colorless After Eating Red Dragon Fruit?
Colorless urine? Hello Dr. Wu, As we all know, consuming red dragon fruit can cause urine to appear more reddish. I experienced this normal phenomenon when I previously ate red dragon fruit. However, recently, after eating red dragon fruit, my urine seems to be nearly colorless...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
The color of urine can indeed vary based on hydration levels and diet. For example, when water intake is low, urine tends to be darker (concentrated), while higher water intake results in lighter urine (diluted). However, this can differ from person to person. Regarding your ques...[Read More] Why Is My Urine Colorless After Eating Red Dragon Fruit?
Dehydration and Heat Illness: When to Seek Medical Attention
After feeling unwell due to hot weather? Hello doctor, I would like to ask: A week ago, I drank too much beer one night, and the next day I vomited while on a boat. The weather was hot, and I didn't drink much water. After some activity in the afternoon, I vomited again. I t...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, hot weather combined with a lack of hydration and electrolyte replenishment can indeed lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat stroke. The symptoms you described cannot completely rule out these conditions....[Read More] Dehydration and Heat Illness: When to Seek Medical Attention