Understanding Hyperthyroidism Treatment: Concerns About Medication Effects
Thyroid medication issues? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my recent diagnosis. I was referred to an endocrinologist for thyroid function tests due to keratitis. My blood test results showed TSH: 0.011 and Free T4: 1.47 (at the normal borderline), leading the doctor to be...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Amy, thank you for your message. I am not an endocrinologist, so I only have knowledge of some medication side effects and monitoring methods. For more detailed monitoring strategies or when to discontinue medication, it might be helpful to compile your questions and discus...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism Treatment: Concerns About Medication Effects
Managing Membranous Nephropathy: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips
Membranous nephropathy Before treatment for membranous nephropathy, proteinuria was between 1-2 grams, and albumin was above 1000. After treatment, proteinuria decreased to below 0.5 grams (minimum 0.17), and albumin fluctuated between 300-500 (minimum 100). With continued treatm...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Hong, Hello. Membranous nephropathy is an important glomerular disease that can lead to end-stage renal disease, especially in cases with severe proteinuria reaching nephrotic syndrome. In a ten-year follow-up, 30-40% of patients with this condition progress to renal failur...[Read More] Managing Membranous Nephropathy: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips
Understanding Unexplained Weight Loss: A Case Study in Mental Health and Lifestyle
Weight loss Hello Doctor: Since April of this year, I have been working full-time collecting scrap metal. I am a person with a mental disability, and finding a job is not easy; therefore, I resorted to recycling. Initially, it was just a hobby, and I would only collect occasional...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, the most common causes of weight loss include diabetes, hyperthyroidism, chronic illnesses, cancer, and others; it also encompasses physical exertion, depression, anorexia, and so on. Since you have already been evaluated by a physician who ruled out the possibility...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Weight Loss: A Case Study in Mental Health and Lifestyle
Understanding Unexplained Weight Loss and Digestive Issues
Annoying physical discomfort? Hello Doctor: Since the end of September last year, my weight has dropped from 68 kg to 52 kg. My height is 172 cm, and my condition includes a sudden decrease in appetite, lack of desire to eat, discomfort, nausea, and dizziness. I often experience ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you visit the Department of Metabolism and the Department of Gastroenterology at a medical center to determine the cause of your condition. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Unexplained Weight Loss and Digestive Issues
Does Gallbladder Removal Increase Type 2 Diabetes Risk?
Several questions regarding diabetes? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about the high-risk groups for diabetes. I am a gallstone patient and have had my gallbladder removed. Does the absence of a gallbladder increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes? In my family history, ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Having a family history of type 2 diabetes indeed increases the likelihood of developing the condition. This apparent familial clustering of incidence may be attributed to genetic factors, as well as shared dietary and lifestyle habits shaped by cohabitation. The progression o...[Read More] Does Gallbladder Removal Increase Type 2 Diabetes Risk?
Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis Standards and Insurance Implications
Diabetes Diagnosis Criteria Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my situation. Recently, when I applied for insurance, I was denied coverage because I truthfully disclosed that I had a HbA1c level as high as 9.0. However, since then, I have maintained my HbA1c between 6.0 and...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
In general, diabetes is diagnosed with a fasting blood glucose level of 126 mg/dL or higher, a hemoglobin A1c level of 6.5% or higher, or a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test result of 200 mg/dL or higher. Early-stage diabetes can achieve good blood glucose control through dietar...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis Standards and Insurance Implications
Understanding Weight Loss and Appetite Issues in Diabetic Patients
Diabetes-related issues? The doctor would like to ask, my dad has diabetes and is on medication for control. Recently, he has been losing weight and says he has no appetite; he can't eat the food on the table. Is this related to the medication or could it be a sign of anothe...
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Some oral medications for diabetes may cause side effects such as abdominal bloating and may also lead to slight weight loss. If the weight loss is significant, it is important to consider whether high blood sugar levels are causing dehydration; however, other conditions may also...[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss and Appetite Issues in Diabetic Patients
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
Managing Post-Dialysis Nausea and Dizziness: When to Seek Further Help
Frequent vomiting after dialysis? My boyfriend has been on dialysis for over a year now. Recently, he often feels dizzy after dialysis or the next day, and he frequently experiences vomiting. Sometimes he vomits right after eating, and other times he rushes to the bathroom to vom...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Regarding dizziness and frequent vomiting after dialysis or the following day, we can discuss it in two parts: 1. First, consider the quality of dialysis. Is the dialysis adequate? Is there excessive weight gain between sessions? Is there poor blood pressure control? These factor...[Read More] Managing Post-Dialysis Nausea and Dizziness: When to Seek Further Help
Understanding Edema and Weight Gain: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Issues
Edema & Obesity Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my long-term edema (most noticeable in my ankles). I have visited both a nephrologist and an endocrinologist, and they both said my test results are normal. I am unsure where the problem lies and what I should do. My we...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello Kanlin, I recommend that you exercise more, reduce salt, oil, and sugar intake, and eat more fruits and vegetables to maintain a regular lifestyle and promote both physical and mental health.[Read More] Understanding Edema and Weight Gain: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Issues
What Tests to Request from an Endocrinologist for Your Health Concerns?
What tests can I request when seeing an endocrinologist? 1. I haven't had my period for the last two consecutive months. I consulted a gynecologist who said that I should not be in menopause yet. 2. In the past, I had a health check-up at National Taiwan University Hospital,...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: The symptoms mentioned in the text belong to different medical specialties. If you are consulting an endocrinologist, the necessary tests based on your complaints and health check reports will be determined according to your individual condition and the physician's ex...[Read More] What Tests to Request from an Endocrinologist for Your Health Concerns?
Understanding Male Pear-Shaped Bodies: Causes and Solutions
male pear-shaped body Hello Dr. Tsai: As the title suggests, my upper body is slim, like my father; but my lower body is plump, like my mother (though my hands also resemble my mother's). I am currently a senior in high school, standing at 160 cm and weighing close to 60 kg....
Dr. Cai Zonglin Reply:
Body shape is partially influenced by genetics, and consuming two to three cups of soy milk per week should not significantly affect estrogen levels. In males, elevated estrogen levels combined with reduced testosterone may lead to gynecomastia. Certain genetic disorders may resu...[Read More] Understanding Male Pear-Shaped Bodies: Causes and Solutions
Is It Normal to Fluctuate Between 71.5 and 73.5 kg in Weight?
Weight issues Recently, I might have overeaten a bit, and my weight reached 73-73.5 kg. However, over the next week, my diet has been more regular while at work, and in the past few days, my weight has dropped to less than 72 kg, around 71.5-72 kg. Is this normal?
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, A-Zhe. Thank you for your question. Generally speaking, if there is a weight loss of more than 10% of your original body weight in a short period of time, we would investigate to see if there are any underlying causes for the weight loss. Therefore, based on this standard,...[Read More] Is It Normal to Fluctuate Between 71.5 and 73.5 kg in Weight?
Understanding Immunosuppressants: Dosage Insights for Autoimmune Treatment
Immunosuppressants Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if a 23-year-old female weighing 48 kg taking Myfortic 180 mg six times a day and Cyclosporine 100 mg twice a day is considered a high dosage? This is for the treatment of an autoimmune disease, and she is also using corticost...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Apple, thank you for your question. Regarding cyclosporine, the dosage will depend on the specific autoimmune disease and the associated health risks. Generally, the use of this medication indicates that the condition requires active control of the immune system, and a comm...[Read More] Understanding Immunosuppressants: Dosage Insights for Autoimmune Treatment
Understanding Sudden Petechiae on the Arm: Causes and Concerns
Subcutaneous hemorrhage with red spots on the arm? Hello, doctor. This morning, I suddenly noticed petechiae on my left forearm and hand, resembling small pinpricks. There are no similar spots on other parts of my body. I have previously had my platelet count tested several times...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, A-Zhe. If there are only small petechiae in a localized area and the platelet count is normal, with no other symptoms present, I believe the likelihood of it being caused by external factors is higher. In principle, sometimes even carrying a heavy backpack can lead to smal...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Petechiae on the Arm: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Diabetes: Kidney Atrophy and Uremia Symptoms Explained
Diabetes concerns? Hello, Dr. Lee. 1. Why does diabetes cause renal atrophy and uremia? 2. What are the symptoms of uremia?
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: In response to your two questions: 1. Metabolic factors and hemodynamic changes are the primary causes affecting diabetic nephropathy. The effects of hyperglycemia alter the feedback control of the glomeruli and renal tubules, leading to abnormal glucose metabolic path...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Kidney Atrophy and Uremia Symptoms Explained
Understanding High Uric Acid: Gout, Genetics, and Long-Term Treatment
Uric acid and metabolism issues? Hello Dr. Hsiao, Question 1: Around the age of 20, I was diagnosed with high uric acid levels, approximately double the normal range, which led to gout (in my toe). The doctor mentioned it might be hereditary, but my family members do not exhibit...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Question 1: The definition of hyperuricemia is a serum uric acid concentration greater than 7.0 mg/dL in men and greater than 6.0 mg/dL in women. Uric acid is a risk factor for the development of gout; however, the relationship between hyperuricemia and acute gout remains unclear...[Read More] Understanding High Uric Acid: Gout, Genetics, and Long-Term Treatment
Understanding Breakfast: Timing and Healthy Snacking Between Meals
Health Consultation Hello, Doctor: I have a few related questions to ask. 1. How long after waking up without eating can it be considered that one has skipped breakfast? 2. The Department of Health advocates for regular meal times; does this also imply that one should not eat any...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. How long after waking up without eating can it be considered skipping breakfast? According to the normal human biological clock, humans work and are active during the day and rest and sleep at night. Therefore, three meals a day are generally needed, typically breakfast, lunch...[Read More] Understanding Breakfast: Timing and Healthy Snacking Between Meals
Understanding Low Triglycerides: Health Impacts and Solutions
Low triglycerides? During our recent health check-up, it was pointed out that our triglyceride levels are low. Could you please explain what effects low triglyceride levels may have on the body? Additionally, how can we address this issue to bring the levels back to normal? Thank...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Gloria: Low triglyceride levels may be caused by dietary restrictions or malnutrition. Are you currently on a diet for weight loss? It is advisable to consult a physician for treatment if there are any concerns.[Read More] Understanding Low Triglycerides: Health Impacts and Solutions
Understanding Left Lower Back Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Hello doctor, I am experiencing pain in my left lower back? Hello, Doctor Hsiao. Recently, I have been actively trying to lose weight and visited a traditional Chinese medicine clinic where I was prescribed herbal medicine for weight loss, reducing excessive heat in the body, and...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
There are many factors related to the content you mentioned. If you are already committed to a weight loss program at a traditional Chinese medicine clinic, please follow the advice and treatment of your TCM practitioner. If you suspect there may be an underlying medical issue an...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Back Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help