Rising BUN and Creatinine Levels: Should You Worry About Kidney Health?
If BUN and creatinine levels are continuously rising (but still within the normal range), does this indicate a problem with the kidneys? Hello Doctor: I had a blood test in November 2017, which showed a BUN of 6 and a creatinine level of 9. In August 2018, I had another blood tes...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
1. BUN and creatinine (CRE) have standard values established by each laboratory. As long as the values are within the normal range (e.g., CRE: 0.7-1.3), the results indicate that they fall within the normal limits. Fluctuations in these values can be significantly influenced by d...[Read More] Rising BUN and Creatinine Levels: Should You Worry About Kidney Health?
Understanding Thyroid Dysfunction: Impact on Weight and Ear Issues
Hyperthyroidism? Hello doctor, I have been taking the third pack of oral contraceptives, alternating between YAZ and NINA. I have had issues with ear congestion for several years, which initially did not affect my daily life. Recently, however, I have been experiencing multiple e...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, here are a few points to clarify: 1. Regarding thyroid issues: I'm not sure if you have symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as sensitivity to cold, weight loss, increased anxiety, or frequent diarrhea. If you do not have these symptoms, an i...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Dysfunction: Impact on Weight and Ear Issues
Understanding HbA1c Levels: Can You Reverse Prediabetes?
The glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level is 6.2? The hospital measured my hemoglobin A1c at 6.2. After three months of dietary control, my hemoglobin A1c was measured at 5.9. No one in my family has diabetes, but I have gained a lot of weight due to taking medication for bipolar dis...
Dr. Chen Shunfu Reply:
Congratulations! Your hemoglobin A1c has decreased from 6.2% to 5.9% after three months of dietary control. Based on your height of 179 cm and weight of 95 kg, your BMI is calculated to be 29.6, which indicates obesity. The medication Depakine (valproate) that you are taking can ...[Read More] Understanding HbA1c Levels: Can You Reverse Prediabetes?
Understanding Diabetes: Is a HbA1c of 7.6 Dangerous and What to Do Next?
Medical Inquiry Hello Dr. Chen, I am 23 years old and overweight. Recently, I had surgery for folliculitis near my groin, and I noticed that my wound healed slowly. The doctor suspected that I might have diabetes, so I had my hemoglobin A1c tested, which came back at 7.6, confi...
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
1. Illness is dangerous; safety is paramount. Do not be afraid of taking medication; the real concern should be poor management of the condition. 2. If diet and exercise cannot adequately control blood sugar levels, medication must be used for management.[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Is a HbA1c of 7.6 Dangerous and What to Do Next?
Could Recent Diarrhea Be a Sign of HIV After Risky Behavior?
Could this type of diarrhea be a symptom of HIV? About a month after engaging in high-risk behavior, I have recently been experiencing frequent loose stools and even diarrhea, although it's not occurring every time. Previously, I would have a bowel movement about once a day,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, diarrhea is not a common early symptom of HIV infection; it usually occurs later in the infection when specific intestinal pathogens may be involved. Based on your description, it seems to be related to food. Additionally, exercise can increase intestinal motility, which i...[Read More] Could Recent Diarrhea Be a Sign of HIV After Risky Behavior?
Understanding IgA Nephropathy: Key Questions and Concerns for Patients
Regarding IgA nephropathy? Hello Doctor, I recently went to see a physician due to proteinuria and hematuria. After several examinations, the doctor suspects I have IgA nephropathy. Since the test results are not yet available, I would like to ask a few questions in case I am dia...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Below are the responses to your questions. 1. IgA nephropathy can be well controlled with medication, but regular follow-up appointments are still necessary. Appropriate treatment can indeed reduce the risk of renal function deterioration leading to dialysis. 2. It is re...[Read More] Understanding IgA Nephropathy: Key Questions and Concerns for Patients
Effective Strategies for Healthy Weight Gain: Overcoming Being Underweight
Long-term underweight? I am 175 cm tall and weigh 48.2 kg. Can you suggest ways for me to gain weight? I usually exercise, playing badminton, swimming, and doing push-ups. I also do not experience constipation after meals.
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, excessive weight is usually caused by multiple factors, especially body composition and appetite, which play a significant role. It is recommended that if you have time, you can calculate the approximate calories you consume in a day. Many foods have their calorie content ...[Read More] Effective Strategies for Healthy Weight Gain: Overcoming Being Underweight
Managing Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide for Overweight Individuals
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) Hello, doctor. I am obese and have sleep apnea and high blood pressure. Currently, I am taking half of a 5 mg blood pressure medication, which has been controlling my condition for a while. My morning and evening blood pressure readings are quite stabl...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
As your physician mentioned: diet and exercise management. Additionally, it is advisable to consult a nutritionist or a diabetes educator for more information on this matter. Thank you for your message.[Read More] Managing Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide for Overweight Individuals
Understanding Intermittent Numbness and Weakness in Feet: Causes and Solutions
Intermittent numbness in both feet? Hello Doctor: I am 24 years old and have been working for some time. I have hyperthyroidism, which I have been treating for six months. I have been going to the hospital for follow-ups, and my condition is currently stable and normal. However, ...
Dr. Chen Shunfu Reply:
Based on the brief medical history you provided, it is recommended that hyperthyroidism be managed according to medical advice and that regular follow-ups are conducted. You should first rule out the possibility of having Thyrotoxic Periodic Paralysis (TPP). Statistics indicate t...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Numbness and Weakness in Feet: Causes and Solutions
Post-Thyroid Surgery: Understanding Recent Health Issues and Symptoms
6.7 years post-thyroidectomy, experiencing some recent health issues? I previously had hyperthyroidism and underwent surgery six to seven years ago. I have been taking Antithyroid medication regularly, and recently I have been taking two 50 mg tablets a day. However, I have been ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, I'm not sure if you have been continuously monitoring your thyroid function. If you are on medication, you should be regularly tracking it. If your thyroid function is normal, based on your described symptoms, the most likely cause is a strain. I wonder if you have re...[Read More] Post-Thyroid Surgery: Understanding Recent Health Issues and Symptoms
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling in the Groin: Causes and Concerns
Lymphatic issues Hello, Doctor. I have noticed that I have two or three swollen areas in my left and right groin that have persisted for about six months. They are all less than 1 cm, do not hurt when pressed, and are movable. However, I often feel a dull ache in the area where m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, there are many causes of lymphadenopathy. Given your age, it is more likely due to an injury or infection in the leg. We need to confirm if you have experienced any fever, weight loss, or other discomfort. If the swelling persists, you may consider undergoing a lymph node ...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling in the Groin: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Blood Pressure Variations: Morning vs. Evening Readings
Significant differences in blood pressure between morning and evening? Due to diarrhea, I lost 6 kilograms (currently 163 cm, 61 kg). I suddenly stopped taking Concor (while on the medication, my blood pressure was 132/85). After discontinuing, my morning blood pressure readings ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: If you experience a weight loss of 6 kilograms in a short period due to diarrhea, along with lower blood pressure than usual, and your blood pressure remains stable even after stopping antihypertensive medication, there may be concerns about inadequate fluid volume. It is ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Variations: Morning vs. Evening Readings
Can Diabetic Patients Safely Run and Participate in Races?
Can diabetic patients run and participate in road races? Hello Dr. Lin, I am very grateful for your response to my previous question (#136924 regarding diabetes medication). I would like to ask if it is suitable for diabetes patients to run and participate in road races as part o...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Exercise can enhance the body's sensitivity to insulin, not only preventing blood sugar levels from rising but also promoting the entry of glucose into cells, thereby lowering blood sugar concentrations and strengthening the body's regulation of blood glucose. Th...[Read More] Can Diabetic Patients Safely Run and Participate in Races?
How Often Should You Get Tested for Diabetes Risk?
Questions related to diabetes testing? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask how often the general public should get tested for the risk of diabetes. If I am a diabetes patient, how often should I go to the hospital for check-ups? Is it the same as a routine health check-up, once a ...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Generally, assessments should be based on individual circumstances such as age, weight, family history, medication history, symptoms, and the presence of other diseases. This is also true for diabetes patients, who should be evaluated according to their specific conditions. It is...[Read More] How Often Should You Get Tested for Diabetes Risk?
Impact of Cevimeline and Hydroxychloroquine on Pregnancy Outcomes
Took CEVIMELINE and HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE SULFATE? Hello Doctor, I have Sjögren's syndrome, and I was unaware that I was pregnant. My current weight is 65 kg. During this time, I have been taking Cevimeline and Hydroxychloroquine sulfate. For the first three weeks of pregnancy,...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Although hydroxychloroquine and cevimeline are classified as Category C medications during pregnancy, the likelihood of these drugs causing adverse effects on the fetus is quite low. Additionally, for some rheumatology patients with severe cond...[Read More] Impact of Cevimeline and Hydroxychloroquine on Pregnancy Outcomes
Understanding Low C-Peptide Levels: Implications for Diabetes and Weight Management
Low C-Peptide Dear Dr. Lin, Thank you for your prompt response. I apologize for needing to ask a few more questions: 1) Is there a difference in fasting C-Peptide levels between 8 hours and 12 hours? 2) Is a low C-Peptide level associated with a lower likelihood of regaining ...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
1. C-peptide: It is generally recommended to have blood drawn after fasting for about 8 hours, but prolonged fasting is not advised as it may affect the test results. 2. Generally, C-peptide is not commonly used to assess the likelihood of weight regain. 3. Based on your current ...[Read More] Understanding Low C-Peptide Levels: Implications for Diabetes and Weight Management
Understanding Low C-Peptide Levels: Is It Type 1 Diabetes?
Low C-Peptide Hello Dr. Lin, My current fasting blood glucose is 90 mg/dL and 2-hour postprandial is 80 mg/dL, which seems normal. However, my HbA1c is 6.2%, and my peptide insulin level is only 0.6. About a year and a half ago, I experienced a sudden and significant weight loss...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
1. Based on the information you provided, your likelihood of having type 1 diabetes is low. 2. Avoiding all-you-can-eat restaurants, enhancing dietary control, and increasing physical activity should help improve your blood sugar levels. 3. Improving your lifestyle, being mindful...[Read More] Understanding Low C-Peptide Levels: Is It Type 1 Diabetes?
Struggling with Weight Loss: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Solutions
Weight loss and related issues? Hello, (1) I was diagnosed with Mediterranean anemia during a health check-up, but my doctor said it is not severe and does not require treatment. My BMI is 27, which classifies me as overweight. I do not have a specific plan for weight loss and ...
Dr. Ke Taiyuan Reply:
1. The fundamentals of weight loss are still dietary control and regular exercise. Dietary principles include low calories, high protein (meat, fish, beans, eggs, dairy), high fiber, low salt, low oil, and low sugar. Reduce calorie intake outside of main meals, and if you feel hu...[Read More] Struggling with Weight Loss: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Solutions
Common Questions from Families of New Dialysis Patients
Questions from family members of novice kidney patients? Dear Dr. Wu, I hope this message finds you well. My elderly family member has recently entered the dialysis stage due to chronic kidney failure, and as a novice caregiver, I have some questions I would like to ask you. 1....
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Determine an appropriate target dry weight: approximately 1-2 weeks, unless the patient has a history of pulmonary edema or generalized edema, in which case additional time may be needed. 2. If the dry weight has been achieved but blood pressure remains elevated, antihypertens...[Read More] Common Questions from Families of New Dialysis Patients
Managing Blood Sugar Levels: Concerns and Solutions for Anxiety-Driven Results
How to improve blood sugar levels? Last Friday, I suddenly experienced itching all over my body, and I was worried it might be diabetes. I felt very low and anxious for three consecutive days—Friday, Saturday, and Sunday—resulting in insufficient sleep. On Monday, I went to the h...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Cc: 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 toleranc...[Read More] Managing Blood Sugar Levels: Concerns and Solutions for Anxiety-Driven Results