Can Eating Fruits and Vegetables Offset Cholesterol from Seafood?
Can cholesterol be offset? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask: Recently, I have been enjoying seafood, such as shrimp, clams, oysters, and fish heads, almost every other day. If I eat more fruits and vegetables, which are cholesterol-free foods, will that counteract the cholester...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Currently, it has not been proven that consuming more fruits and vegetables can offset the increase in cholesterol caused by high-cholesterol foods. High-cholesterol foods and high-purine foods have some overlap, such as organ meats and seafood.[Read More] Can Eating Fruits and Vegetables Offset Cholesterol from Seafood?
Understanding Proteinuria: Should You See a Nephrologist?
Urinary protein Hello Doctor, during this year's employee health check, I found (+) urine protein and (+/-) occult blood. I have had similar test results in the past, but after several rechecks, they disappeared. However, I occasionally test positive again, and sometimes my ...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the presence of proteinuria can be classified into functional proteinuria and pathological proteinuria. Functional proteinuria may occur due to urinary tract infections, fever, infections, or during a woman's menstrual period, and it typi...[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria: Should You See a Nephrologist?
Understanding Kidney Issues and Nighttime Leg Cramps in Elderly Patients
Please ask your question? Hello, Dr. Yang... I have a question I would like to ask you... My mother has kidney issues; her left kidney has completely lost function, and the right kidney currently has a tube inserted in the lumbar area to allow urine to drain. She has kidney stone...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, your mother's condition is quite complex. The issue of right kidney stones and the need for catheter drainage should be explained by a urologist based on her specific situation. The neurological sensations and symptoms of congestion cause...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues and Nighttime Leg Cramps in Elderly Patients
Understanding Abnormal Amorphous Phosphate in Urine: Causes and Implications
I would like to inquire about the abnormalities related to "amorphous phosphate." In March 2005, a health check was conducted, and the urine test showed an abnormal result of "amorphous phosphate (+)." I would like to ask: 1. What is amorphous phosphate? 2. Wh...
Dr. Chen Jingwen Reply:
Hello Jenny, amorphous phosphates refer to phosphates, including calcium phosphate. Under normal circumstances, phosphates are produced from food metabolism and combine with calcium and other elements, then are excreted through the kidneys in urine. This is a normal metabolic pro...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Amorphous Phosphate in Urine: Causes and Implications
Understanding Severe Gastrointestinal Issues After Medication Overdose
Severe gastrointestinal issues? I attempted suicide a month ago due to relationship issues, taking over sixty pills at once, including cold medicine, Abbott 15mg weight loss pills, and detox beauty pills. The day before this incident, I also took twelve sleeping pills. That night...
Dr. Cai Zonglong Reply:
Hello, I think your issue is quite complex. It may be necessary to consult a hematologist to check for any bleeding tendencies. Additionally, you should see an obstetrician-gynecologist to examine for any organ abnormalities. The black vomit you experienced a month ago likely ind...[Read More] Understanding Severe Gastrointestinal Issues After Medication Overdose
Understanding Elevated Alkaline Phosphatase Levels: What You Need to Know
Elevated alkaline phosphatase levels? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask you a question regarding my recent urine and blood test results. The liver function tests showed the following: - Total Protein: 7.5 g/dL (Reference range: 6.0-8.2 g/dL) - Albumin: 4.43 g/dL (Reference ...
Dr. Chen Jingwen Reply:
Hello, elevated alkaline phosphatase levels can have many causes, such as acute hepatitis, liver tumors, hemolytic anemia, bone disorders, and bile duct obstruction. Therefore, it is recommended to seek further evaluation at an internal medicine outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Alkaline Phosphatase Levels: What You Need to Know
Understanding Urine Specific Gravity: Normal Ranges and Implications
My body The normal range for urine specific gravity is typically between 1.005 and 1.030. A specific gravity of 1.005 is considered to be at the lower end of the normal range.
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello, the normal range for urine specific gravity is 1.005 to 1.030. When you drink a lot of water, the urine output increases, and the specific gravity will decrease. Director of the Health Education Department, Hualien Hospital, Chen Ching-Pin.[Read More] Understanding Urine Specific Gravity: Normal Ranges and Implications
Understanding Hypokalemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
What is hypokalemia? What is hypokalemia?
Dr. Shi Guangzhong Reply:
Dear Sir, I apologize for the delayed response due to a recent computer malfunction. Potassium is the most important cation within human cells, directly influencing muscle contraction and nerve conduction functions. Its concentration in plasma is regulated by renal excretion. ...[Read More] Understanding Hypokalemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Understanding Urinary Issues and Chest Pain: A Guide for Patients
Anuria and chest pain? Hello, Doctor: The patient is a 40-year-old woman who is thin and has a history of smoking and alcohol consumption. She experiences difficulty urinating and has been prescribed diuretics three times a day, which have not been very helpful. She frequently ex...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello: Difficulty in urination, rather than low urine output or renal dysfunction, should not be treated with diuretics. It is important to rule out urinary tract infections, urinary dysfunction, or obstruction. Other medication side effects should also be considered. It is recom...[Read More] Understanding Urinary Issues and Chest Pain: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Right Side Discomfort: When to See a Specialist
Discomfort on the right side? Dr. Tsai: After consulting you about the pressure sensation in my right upper abdomen (what could be the cause of discomfort in the right upper abdomen on 12/28), I have noticed that the discomfort has spread to my right flank, lower back, and right ...
Dr. Cai Zonglong Reply:
Hello, based on your symptoms and examination, it is unlikely that there is a problem with your liver. However, it would be more accurate to perform a blood test to check liver function. Additionally, your symptoms may be caused by your daily work or lifestyle habits, which may n...[Read More] Understanding Right Side Discomfort: When to See a Specialist
Understanding Hydronephrosis: Dietary Impact and Management Tips
Hydronephrosis Grandma has not been feeling well recently, and after examination, she was diagnosed with hydronephrosis and the presence of kidney stones. Is there a significant correlation with diet? She has dementia and diabetes mellitus, so she usually pays special attention t...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question... The cause of your grandmother's hydronephrosis is likely due to kidney stones, and it is essential to contact a urologist as soon as possible to check for ureteral obstruction and manage the stones. A diabetic diet does not cause kidney...[Read More] Understanding Hydronephrosis: Dietary Impact and Management Tips
Is Excess Protein Intake During Development Harmful? Understanding Foamy Urine
Protein Is excessive protein intake during the developmental stage harmful to the body if it causes foamy urine?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: Consuming a higher amount of protein does not lead to proteinuria, and the presence of foam in urine does not indicate proteinuria.[Read More] Is Excess Protein Intake During Development Harmful? Understanding Foamy Urine
Understanding Kidney Function Tests: Interpreting Abnormal Results
Kidney function tests I recently received my health check report. Kidney examination: BUN=13 is normal, but creatinine=2.4 indicates an abnormal condition. Gallbladder examination: total bilirubin (T-bil)=1.6 is abnormal, while direct bilirubin (d-bil)=0.3 is normal. Urinalysis: ...
Dr. Cai Zonglong Reply:
Hello, a creatinine level of 2.4 indicates abnormal kidney function. There are many causes for kidney dysfunction, but your normal urine test results help rule out glomerulonephritis and interstitial nephritis. The remaining differential diagnoses primarily include: 1. Residual r...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function Tests: Interpreting Abnormal Results
Understanding Hyponatremia: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks for Seniors
Hyponatremia Hyponatremia, or low sodium levels in the blood, can be caused by various factors, including excessive fluid intake, certain medications (such as diuretics), hormonal imbalances (like adrenal insufficiency), and underlying medical conditions (such as heart failure, l...
Dr. Xie Yonghui Reply:
Hyponatremia (1) Definition: A state of low osmolarity, with serum sodium concentration below 135 mmol/L. (2) Clinical Manifestations: In normal individuals, serum sodium levels are approximately 135-145 mmol/L. If hyponatremia is chronic or the decline in sodium levels is grad...[Read More] Understanding Hyponatremia: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks for Seniors
Is It Kidney or Liver Issues? Understanding Your Symptoms and Solutions
Is it a kidney issue or a liver issue? Frequent late nights and poor daytime work performance, along with yellow urine and occasional feelings of bladder weakness, as well as recent hair loss, may indicate several underlying issues. These symptoms could be related to dehydration,...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
These symptoms are non-specific and are mostly not caused by liver or kidney issues. Dietary treatment is unlikely to provide significant benefits. If symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult an internal medicine specialist.[Read More] Is It Kidney or Liver Issues? Understanding Your Symptoms and Solutions
Understanding A-Alpha Globulin Nephritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Type A globulin glomerulonephritis Hello Doctor, I have had microscopic hematuria for a year. Last year, I underwent examinations in the nephrology department, including blood tests, urine tests, and imaging X-rays. Aside from 4+ occult blood, I sometimes had proteinuria and some...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question... Persistent microscopic hematuria and occasional proteinuria are indicative of glomerulonephritis. Generally, type A alpha globulin nephritis is more common. An IgA level of 380 is elevated, which further supports the high likelihood of type ...[Read More] Understanding A-Alpha Globulin Nephritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Can Alkaline Ionized Water Help with High Uric Acid and Hepatitis B?
Alkaline ionized water I have high uric acid levels. I've heard that drinking alkaline ionized water can help improve this condition. However, I also have hepatitis B and I'm not sure if it's safe for me to drink it.
Dr. Xie Yonghui Reply:
You have a condition of hyperuricemia, which can lead to gout in severe cases. In addition to medication, treatment for gout should include dietary modifications (a low-purine diet) and adequate hydration. It is generally recommended to drink at least 2000cc of water daily to aid...[Read More] Can Alkaline Ionized Water Help with High Uric Acid and Hepatitis B?
Simple Self-Tests for Diabetes: Understanding Symptoms and Risks
Diabetes mellitus I would like to ask if there are any simpler methods to test for diabetes at home, aside from going to the hospital for a check-up. I noticed that I have been resistant to sweet foods recently, and even after several hours without drinking water, I still need to...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
If a mother has diabetes, the likelihood of her children developing diabetes increases, and this risk is further heightened if there is obesity. However, it is still possible to develop diabetes even without obesity. Mild diabetes may not present any symptoms, and it cannot be di...[Read More] Simple Self-Tests for Diabetes: Understanding Symptoms and Risks
Understanding Back Pain: Is It Related to Kidney Issues?
Could you please provide more details about the issue of back pain? Hello Doctor, 1. Last night before going to bed, I felt a slight soreness in my right upper back. In the past, I would usually wake up feeling sore, but this time I was suddenly awakened by the pain in my back ...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question... Based on the symptoms and examination results you described, the back pain may not be related to kidney disease. It is necessary to seek further evaluation from a rehabilitation or orthopedic specialist to determine if the pain is caused by ...[Read More] Understanding Back Pain: Is It Related to Kidney Issues?
Understanding Hand and Foot Swelling in Adolescents: Causes and Treatments
Swelling of the fingers and toes? Hello Dr. Yang: My child is currently 14 years old and experienced swelling in the hands and feet (fingers and toes) around the age of 9, which was accompanied by pain. I forgot what the doctor said at that time. It occurred occasionally, but for...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question... The possible causes of edema in the hands and feet, aside from kidney disease leading to proteinuria, include heart disease, liver disease, and metabolic disorders (such as hypothyroidism, etc.). It is recommended to visit a nephrologist for...[Read More] Understanding Hand and Foot Swelling in Adolescents: Causes and Treatments