Managing Hypothyroidism: When to Seek Medical Attention and Dietary Guidelines
Hypothyroidism I have hypothyroidism and secretly stopped taking my medication for a year. A few days ago, I visited an endocrinologist, and my thyroid levels were within the normal range. The doctor said that since I am not taking medication, I should at least return for a follo...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, bradycardia, weight gain, cold and swollen extremities, rough and dry skin, brittle nails, numbness in fingers, absence of sweating, hoarseness, snoring, hair loss, anemia, heavy menstrual bleeding, and loss of libido, among o...[Read More] Managing Hypothyroidism: When to Seek Medical Attention and Dietary Guidelines
Understanding the Rise in Glycated Hemoglobin: Concerns and Management
Elevated glycosylated hemoglobin? Hello Doctor, my HbA1c was 5.11 on December 19 and 5.6 on January 27. Is this an increase too fast? There is a family history of diabetes, so I have been exercising daily and controlling my diet since December, but my HbA1c has still increased. A...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Your elevated hemoglobin A1c indicates that your average blood sugar levels have increased recently, which may be related to increased appetite during the winter and decreased physical activity. It is recommended that you manage your diet and weight, maintain moderate exer...[Read More] Understanding the Rise in Glycated Hemoglobin: Concerns and Management
Could These Symptoms Indicate Type 1 Diabetes at 24?
Is it Type 1 Diabetes? Hello Doctor: I am currently 24 years old, 156 cm tall, and six months ago my fasting blood glucose was measured at 79 mg/dL, with a blood pressure of 94/57 mmHg. My weight has historically ranged between 40 to 44 kg, and I experience polyphagia, polyuria (...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin, the diagnosis of diabetes requires not only the classic symptoms of polyphagia, polydipsia, and polyuria but also the evaluation of fasting blood glucose or hemoglobin A1c levels. Your fasting blood glucose is only 79 mg/dL, which should not indicate diabetes. Addi...[Read More] Could These Symptoms Indicate Type 1 Diabetes at 24?
Dealing with Severe Constipation: Seeking Solutions Beyond Medications
Severe constipation Last year, I drank laxative tea daily for weight loss and then switched to aloe vera capsules, which I eventually stopped using. However, now I cannot have regular bowel movements without relying on traditional Chinese medicine or probiotic powder to stimulate...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. It is recommended to develop a habit of using the restroom at a fixed time each day (preferably during a more relaxed period) and avoid reading newspapers or using your phone while on the toilet. 2. You can massage your abdomen, focusing on the area around the navel,...[Read More] Dealing with Severe Constipation: Seeking Solutions Beyond Medications
Understanding OGTT Results: Can Normal Glycation Indicate Diabetes?
OGTT test and glycation? Hello doctor, if the glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is normal at 5.1%, but the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) exceeds 200 mg/dL, would that be classified as diabetes? Is this a possibility? Thank you.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dL after fasting for at least 8 hours, b. Plasma glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dL during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), c. HbA1c ≥ 6.5% (thi...[Read More] Understanding OGTT Results: Can Normal Glycation Indicate Diabetes?
Managing Postprandial Blood Sugar: Can Metformin Restore Normal Levels?
Medications for treating postprandial hyperglycemia? Hello, doctor. I heard that Metformin can be used to treat abnormal postprandial blood sugar levels. Can this medication really help the body return to normal? Once normal levels are achieved, can I stop taking it, or will I ne...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association, a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for more than 8 hours, b. 2-hour plasma glucose level ≥200 mg/dL during an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), c. HbA1c ≥6.5% (m...[Read More] Managing Postprandial Blood Sugar: Can Metformin Restore Normal Levels?
Managing Hunger and Diabetes: Understanding Blood Sugar Control and Weight Loss
Annoying hunger pangs Hello Doctor, in November 2014, during my health check-up, the doctor diagnosed me with diabetes (fasting blood sugar of 136 after 8 hours, HbA1c of 6.9). The doctor did not prescribe any medication but advised me to buy a blood glucose monitor for self-moni...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. Your blood sugar is under control, but this does not mean that diabetes has been cured. 2. Regarding hunger, it is initially recommended to consume foods that are filling yet low in calories. For detailed advice, it is suggested that you consult a nutritionist at a hosp...[Read More] Managing Hunger and Diabetes: Understanding Blood Sugar Control and Weight Loss
Understanding Diabetes Risk: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
What is the likelihood of developing diabetes? Hello Doctor, Happy New Year! I would like to ask about my fasting blood test results after 12 hours: Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) 78.5, Hemoglobin 24.6, High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) 10.58, Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Your fasting blood test report shows an average red blood cell volume of 78.5, hemoglobin of 24.6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein of 10.58, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) of 7.7, GOT (AST) of 86, GPT (ALT) of 172, alkaline phosphatase of 110, total iron binding capacity of 5...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Risk: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
Understanding Upper Chest Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Chest tightness in the upper part? This morning, shortly after arriving at the office, I suddenly felt a tightness in the upper part of my chest, accompanied by a slight numbness. After taking a deep breath and relaxing for about 10 minutes, it improved significantly. Since this ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Your weight is 110 kilograms, and your height is 185 centimeters. Your body mass index (BMI) is 32.1 kg/m². According to the standards published by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, this falls into the category of obesity (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m²). Additionally, if your waist circumfere...[Read More] Understanding Upper Chest Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels and Their Impact on Sexual Health
Blood sugar issues Doctor, I had a blood sugar test at the end of August, and my fasting level was around 80 mg/dL. I have been worried about various issues related to sexual function this past year and have sought medical attention for it. I read online that diabetes can affect ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: A fasting blood glucose level of 80 is within the normal range. If there are concerns, you may consider additional testing for postprandial blood glucose at 2 hours and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). For issues related to sexual function, it is recommended to consult a urolo...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels and Their Impact on Sexual Health
Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Follow-Up
Elevated blood sugar levels in health checkup? The fasting blood glucose level from the health check was measured at 107 mg/dL, and the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is normal. I recently consumed more sweets than usual over the past two weeks. Could this have an impact, or is it u...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, a normal fasting plasma glucose level is less than 100 mg/dL. If it falls between 100 mg/dL and 126 mg/dL, it can be considered as prediabetes or impaired fasting glucose. Of course, if the postprandial blood glucose is greater than or equal to 126 mg/dL, diabetes s...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Follow-Up
Understanding Glucose Intolerance: Causes, Effects, and Management Strategies
Impaired glucose tolerance 1. If eating a bowl of white rice results in a blood sugar level of around 169 two hours after the meal, while consuming steamed vegetables and wonton soup leads to a blood sugar level of 131 two hours later, does this indicate impaired glucose toleranc...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, normal postprandial blood glucose levels are less than 140 mg/dL. If the levels are between 140 mg/dL and 200 mg/dL, it is referred to as impaired glucose tolerance. Of course, if postprandial blood glucose is greater than or equal to 200 mg/dL, diabetes mellitus sh...[Read More] Understanding Glucose Intolerance: Causes, Effects, and Management Strategies
Managing Blood Sugar Levels: Essential Checks and Monitoring for Pre-Diabetes
Regarding blood glucose levels? Hello Doctor, I am 24 years old and 173 cm tall. My weight has dropped from 60 kg to 55 kg in three months, and there is a family history of diabetes (my father and grandmother are both diagnosed patients). Last week, I had my blood sugar tested, w...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. Follow-up every 1.3 to 6 months; if there are any abnormal symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. If time permits, check HbA1c before and after meals, ideally twice. 2. It is not necessary to check every time; the physician will determine the need based on the pa...[Read More] Managing Blood Sugar Levels: Essential Checks and Monitoring for Pre-Diabetes
Understanding Reduced Saliva Production: Causes and Solutions
Hello, doctor. I have a question regarding decreased saliva production? Four years ago, I noticed a decrease in saliva production, which has led to difficulties swallowing. I often need to drink liquids while eating. I went to the rheumatology and immunology department for blood ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, there are many reasons for dry mouth. Currently, there are medications available to alleviate the symptoms, as well as toothpaste, oral gels, and mouthwashes that can help. It is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Reduced Saliva Production: Causes and Solutions
Managing Uric Acid Levels: Dietary Tips and Follow-Up Care
Kidney function tests A month ago, I had a health check-up and my uric acid level was within the normal range (2.5-6.5 mg/dL), specifically at 6.1 mg/dL, which is close to the upper limit and has made me a bit concerned. What dietary aspects should I pay attention to? Do I need t...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, the uric acid level of 6.1 is still within the normal range, so there is no need to worry. Just make sure to drink plenty of water, eat more vegetables and fruits, reduce meat and organ meats, avoid alcohol, and incorporate exercise to manage your weight along with regular...[Read More] Managing Uric Acid Levels: Dietary Tips and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Post-Spin Bike Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Discomfort after cycling on a stationary bike during fitness training? Hello Dr. Hsiao, on October 23rd (Friday), after finishing my meal, I did a sprint cycling workout for about 3-5 minutes at the fitness center in the basement of my school. After that, I felt unwell, my face t...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Engaging in any form of exercise must be gradual to allow the body's various systems to make appropriate adjustments and adaptations. Implementing high-intensity physical training abruptly can be quite dangerous from a medical standpoint. On the other hand, aspects such a...[Read More] Understanding Post-Spin Bike Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Can Abnormal Blood Sugar Levels Be Reversed with Diet and Exercise?
Development of Abnormal Blood Sugar Levels Hello doctor, I would like to ask: If someone already has elevated fasting blood glucose or impaired glucose tolerance, can they achieve normal blood glucose levels (fasting less than 100) through dietary control, regular exercise, and w...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello Mr. Lai: The three possibilities you mentioned all exist, and it depends on the severity of your condition and your level of self-control.[Read More] Can Abnormal Blood Sugar Levels Be Reversed with Diet and Exercise?
Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Are You at Risk for Diabetes?
Fasting blood glucose level Dear Doctor: I measured my fasting blood glucose levels at the end of September, early October, and yesterday, with values of 120, 103, and 129, respectively, all after fasting for 8 hours. Additionally, I had my hemoglobin A1c tested yesterday, which ...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on your blood glucose levels, you are currently classified as "prediabetic." It is recommended that you control your diet, engage in regular exercise, and maintain a healthy weight. 2. Blood glucose levels can fluctuate at any time, and the situations yo...[Read More] Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Are You at Risk for Diabetes?
Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Is 95 mg/dL Too High at 33?
Regarding fasting blood glucose (8 hours) Hello Dr. Lee, I am 33 years old, and recently (on September 26) my fasting blood glucose (8 hours) was measured at 95 mg/dL. I would like to ask you: 1. Given my age and fasting blood glucose level (95 mg/dL), is this considered elev...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello Ah-Hsiang: Your blood sugar level is currently within the normal range. Please continue regular monitoring and observation, maintain a healthy lifestyle, pay attention to your diet, control your weight, and engage in regular exercise. Thank you for your inquiry. Wishing you...[Read More] Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Is 95 mg/dL Too High at 33?
Understanding Creatinine Levels: Impact of Exercise and Hydration
Creatinine 1.3 My creatinine level from my health check is 1.3. I have been exercising for about 20 years, running over 4.5 kilometers a day, weightlifting with dumbbells (the heaviest I can lift with one hand is 40 pounds, and I can lift with both hands), doing 200 push-ups, and...
Dr. Lin Shunfa Reply:
Dear Mr. Li, Your creatinine level of 1.3 is within the normal range. It is commendable that you have developed a long-term exercise habit. However, exercise and water intake should be within your own tolerance levels. As long as you maintain a regular lifestyle and a balanced ...[Read More] Understanding Creatinine Levels: Impact of Exercise and Hydration