Understanding Abnormal TSH Levels: Effects and Improvement Strategies
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) Abnormal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels (4.703) can indicate potential thyroid dysfunction. Elevated TSH levels may suggest hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland is underactive, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and de...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
A slightly elevated TSH generally indicates a tendency toward hypothyroidism, but it has not yet reached the level of true hypothyroidism, and it is unlikely to cause clinical symptoms. It is advisable to follow up in 3 to 6 months to see if it progresses to true hypothyroidism. ...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal TSH Levels: Effects and Improvement Strategies
Understanding Vasculitis Treatment: Key Questions and Insights
Treatment of vasculitis My father underwent cataract surgery on his left eye on April 9, and since then, his vision has been blurry. During a follow-up appointment two days ago, the doctor mentioned that he has vascular occlusion and dilation of the optic nerve. Since November of...
Dr. Qiu Zhengbin Reply:
Hello, I am a physician in the Department of Metabolism at Changhua Hospital. Regarding your concerns, I would like to address them from two aspects. First, you mentioned that your father has experienced a weight loss of 11 kilograms over the past few months, along with fatigue...[Read More] Understanding Vasculitis Treatment: Key Questions and Insights
Understanding Unexplained Fever: Causes and Solutions
Fever of unknown origin (FUO) I have been experiencing unexplained fevers every afternoon for the past six months, from November 1998 to May 1999. Despite undergoing various tests, no cause has been identified, and I have not had any relief from the fever during this time. I woul...
Dr. Guo Hanyue Reply:
Hello: There are many possible causes for fever of unknown origin, and if it lasts for six months, it is generally unlikely to be due to a bacterial or viral infection. It is advisable to consult a dedicated infectious disease specialist to discuss the situation and evaluate the ...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Fever: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Thyroid Issues: Weight Gain and Management Tips
I would like to inquire about thyroid issues? I was diagnosed with thyroid issues this year. Initially, I had hyperthyroidism, which was controlled with medication, but now it has turned into hypothyroidism. When I had hyperthyroidism, I lost a lot of weight, but now that it has ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Weight gain after treatment for hyperthyroidism is common and typically stabilizes at a certain point. Controlling lifestyle and diet can help reduce the extent of weight gain. The timing of medication related to hyperthyroidism has little impact on this.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Issues: Weight Gain and Management Tips
Managing Kidney Health: Understanding Diet and Function in Patients
Kidney disease management Hello Dr. Yang, I have a smaller left kidney (congenital, not due to atrophy) and during winter, I experience high blood pressure, increased urination, and nocturia. After visiting the hospital for follow-up examinations, my kidney function has remaine...
Dr. Yang Zhongwei Reply:
Hello: 1. Frequent urination (is it the frequency or the volume?) and nocturia are not necessarily indicative of kidney problems; it is advisable to consult a urologist to examine the bladder. 2. There is currently insufficient evidence to determine the effectiveness of a low-pro...[Read More] Managing Kidney Health: Understanding Diet and Function in Patients
Managing High Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetes: Tips and Insights
High blood sugar? Hello Dr. Lee, I would like to ask how to handle high blood sugar levels? My mother has been a diabetic for about 15 years. She was previously controlled with oral medications, but for the past three years, she has started using insulin injections, which have no...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello Amin, Your question can be summarized as "how to effectively manage diabetes." In addition to the patient and their family, a team consisting of physicians, dietitians, and diabetes educators should be involved in managing diabetes. Currently, health bureaus in v...[Read More] Managing High Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetes: Tips and Insights
Struggling with Weight Loss: Seeking Solutions for Metabolism Issues
Questions about weight loss? Hello, Dr. Yang! Current situation: I am 170 cm tall and weigh 65 kg, which is overweight. I have a small appetite and try to take a walk after every meal! However, I still keep gaining weight. I have tried exercising before, and indeed, I lost weight...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
With a height of 170 cm and a weight of 65 kg, you may not be completely satisfied, but you are still within the standard range and cannot be considered overweight. There is no need to seek medical attention for weight issues, and it is not recommended to pursue any special treat...[Read More] Struggling with Weight Loss: Seeking Solutions for Metabolism Issues
Understanding Endocrine Issues: Impact on Growth and Development
Endocrine issues? Dear Doctor, I developed an Adam's apple in the second semester of fifth grade, and during sixth grade, I started to grow pubic and underarm hair. I began masturbating in the second semester of fourth grade, and I'm unsure if this has contributed to th...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Precocious puberty can affect height, but it seems you have not reached that level yet. A height of 163 cm in the first year of junior high school is still considered acceptable.[Read More] Understanding Endocrine Issues: Impact on Growth and Development
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Key Questions and Insights
Check blood glucose levels? Hello Doctor: I usually have a light diet, but last night I had a gathering with friends and ate significantly more than usual, about 2-3 hours later than normal. This morning, my first blood sugar test showed a level of 125, and I’ve heard that 126 in...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Normal fasting blood glucose levels are below 100 mg/dL. Your current condition indicates poor fasting blood glucose control, which does not yet qualify as a diagnosis of diabetes; however, it significantly increases the risk of developing diabetes in the future. Any weight loss ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Key Questions and Insights
Understanding Arrhythmia: When to Seek Medical Attention for Heart Issues
Arrhythmia Hello Doctor: I am currently a university student majoring in design, with a height of about 170 cm and a weight of approximately 63-65 kg. I often stay up late and exercise at least once a week (playing softball and basketball). I do not smoke or drink alcohol, but I ...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello, Xiao Hei: Incomplete right bundle branch block and sinus bradycardia generally do not require treatment unless there are significant symptoms, such as chest discomfort, chest pain, or shortness of breath. It is advisable to visit a cardiologist at the hospital.[Read More] Understanding Arrhythmia: When to Seek Medical Attention for Heart Issues
Struggling with Underweight Issues: Seeking Help from Metabolism Specialists
Hello, doctor. I have a problem with being underweight? Hello, doctor. My height is just over 156 cm, but my weight is only around 41-42 kg, which is a problem of being underweight! My body frame is very small, and my face lacks a rounded appearance, giving it a slightly sunken l...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello A-Wen: You are underweight, and it is advisable to visit the Family Medicine department at the hospital for examination and treatment.[Read More] Struggling with Underweight Issues: Seeking Help from Metabolism Specialists
Understanding Diabetes Risk: The Impact of Sugar on Your Health
Diabetes-related knowledge Hello, Doctor: My daily diet mainly consists of legumes and whole grains, and I tend to follow a vegetarian diet, but I really enjoy desserts. When I cook or make tea and cocoa, I tend to add a lot of granulated sugar. However, I engage in moderate phys...
Dr. Lü Jing Reply:
Although there is no clear evidence that consuming excess sugar directly causes diabetes, a high intake of carbohydrates can lead to weight gain, and rapid spikes in blood sugar levels are detrimental to health. It is advisable to limit refined sugars and instead consume more who...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Risk: The Impact of Sugar on Your Health
Understanding Weight Loss: Gastrointestinal and Pituitary Issues Explained
skinny Hello, doctor. May I ask if a person who is very thin could have issues related to the pituitary gland in addition to needing to see a gastroenterologist? If so, what would be the reasoning behind this? Thank you.
Dr. Sun Yizhen Reply:
Hello: If you suspect a pituitary gland disorder, you can visit the endocrinology clinic for an evaluation by a specialist. Wishing you well.[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss: Gastrointestinal and Pituitary Issues Explained
Managing Diabetes: Food Control vs. Medication for Blood Sugar Levels
Diabetes mellitus I went to the hospital for a blood sugar test and was diagnosed with diabetes. I bought a blood glucose meter and have stopped taking my blood sugar medication, opting to control it with food instead. My postprandial blood sugar levels are maintained between 120...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Since the blood sugar levels are not very high, dietary control combined with exercise can be tried for a period of time. Monitoring the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) will help assess long-term blood sugar control. If the results are not satisfactory, then oral hypoglycemic agents ...[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Food Control vs. Medication for Blood Sugar Levels
Managing Essential Hypertension: Medication, Diet, and Lifestyle Tips
Essential hypertension Hello Dr. Yang, My boyfriend recently went to the emergency room due to high blood pressure exceeding 170. He has a hereditary form of essential hypertension. Does this mean he will need to take medication for life? He was diagnosed early on, and his usual...
Dr. Yang Zhongwei Reply:
Hello: 1. The target blood pressure for patients with hypertension is below 140/90 mmHg, while for patients with diabetes or chronic kidney disease, the target blood pressure is more stringent: below 130/80 mmHg. 2. Non-pharmacological management of hypertension includes: (1) ach...[Read More] Managing Essential Hypertension: Medication, Diet, and Lifestyle Tips
Understanding Abnormal Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Solutions
Abnormal fasting blood glucose? Hello Dr. Yang, Last year during my physical examination, I was diagnosed with impaired glucose tolerance. After making some adjustments, I have been using a glucometer to monitor my blood sugar levels, which have been consistently around 95 mg/dL...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
The reasons you mentioned lack a clear correlation with blood sugar levels. Currently, the proven methods to reduce the progression from impaired glucose tolerance to diabetes are lifestyle changes. Dietary modifications and exercise (similar to weight control) can reduce the inc...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Solutions
Should I Visit a Sleep Clinic for My Ongoing Sleep Issues?
Should I see a sleep clinic? Hello Doctor, I am a fourth-year student, and I have always found it difficult to concentrate while studying. My overall mental state has been poor throughout the day. My girlfriend mentioned that I often snore while sleeping. Should I seek medical ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, Xiao Ou: Based on your description, it is necessary to rule out the possibility of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. This condition often occurs in obese patients and can lead to poor sleep quality, resulting in daytime dizziness and difficulty concentrating. You may consi...[Read More] Should I Visit a Sleep Clinic for My Ongoing Sleep Issues?
Struggling to Gain Weight? When to Consult a Metabolism Specialist
If you are underweight and having difficulty gaining weight, can I consult a new metabolic specialist? I am really underweight and want to see a doctor to check my condition. I've felt that I was too thin for a long time, so I decided to gain weight since high school. For 1 ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
If someone has been consistently underweight for a long time but does not experience any discomfort or symptoms, this is mostly considered a constitutional condition and should not be classified as a disease. There may not be any specific methods to gain weight in such cases.[Read More] Struggling to Gain Weight? When to Consult a Metabolism Specialist
Struggling with Weight Loss? Understanding Metabolism and Health Tips
Metabolism Hello Dr. Yang, I am petite and not very tall, and my thighs are not particularly thick. I have tried many weight loss methods, such as the cocktail diet and acupuncture, but I still can't maintain it for long and remain round and soft (actually, my appetite is no...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Obese individuals seeking weight loss can consult a metabolic specialist, but their expectations for weight loss should be realistic. The standard treatment approach emphasizes diet and exercise, with medication as an adjunct. A reasonable weight loss expectation is a reduction o...[Read More] Struggling with Weight Loss? Understanding Metabolism and Health Tips
Does High Protein Intake Affect Urine Protein Tests?
Issues with consuming high-protein powder? Hello, doctor. I usually have a fitness routine and after working out, I consume high-protein supplements, about 100 grams of protein per day (I weigh 61 kg). I have a health check-up coming up and I would like to know if this will affec...
Dr. Yang Zhongwei Reply:
Hello: The average protein requirement is about 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. For a person weighing 60 kilograms, this amounts to approximately 70 grams of protein per day. In Taiwan, a normal three-meal diet typically provides sufficient protein. During exercise...[Read More] Does High Protein Intake Affect Urine Protein Tests?