Q&A with Top Doctors

Is a blood glucose level of 6.4 mmol/L requiring treatment?

Under normal circumstances, a blood glucose level of 6.4 mmol/L does not require immediate treatment, but may necessitate lifestyle interventions.

If this is a fasting blood glucose value, it is slightly above the normal range of 3.9-6.1 mmol/L, but has not yet reached the diagnostic criteria for diabetes. At this stage, patients should improve their eating habits, reduce intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods, and increase consumption of vegetables, whole grains, and protein. Secondly, increasing physical activity to at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, is recommended. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing overweight or obesity can help improve the body's sensitivity to insulin.

If this is a 2-hour postprandial blood glucose value, it falls within the normal range of 4.4-7.8 mmol/L and typically does not require specific treatment. It is advisable to monitor blood glucose levels regularly to timely adjust treatment strategies and actively take measures under a doctor's guidance to prevent the onset of diabetes.

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Dr. Liu Feng
May 26, 2025
Can a blood sugar level of 12+ be restored to normal?

In general, a blood glucose level of around 12 mmol/L falls into the category of hyperglycemia. With proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments, it is possible to bring the level back to the normal range.

Pancreatic beta cells are the key cells responsible for insulin secretion. In the early stages of diabetes, the function of pancreatic beta cells may only be partially impaired, and with appropriate treatment and lifestyle interventions, some function can be restored. For example, controlling blood glucose levels and reducing body weight can alleviate the burden on pancreatic beta cells and help restore their function.

It is recommended to choose foods that are low in sugar, low in fat, and high in fiber, such as oats, lean meats, and bitter melon, while controlling total calorie intake. Additionally, increasing physical activity can improve the body's sensitivity to insulin and help utilize blood glucose more effectively. Moreover, if blood glucose levels remain consistently elevated, doctors may recommend the use of antidiabetic medications or insulin injections to help control blood glucose.

In daily life, individuals with high blood glucose are advised to regularly monitor their blood sugar levels and adjust their treatment plans according to medical advice in order to maintain stable blood glucose levels.

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Dr. Liu Feng
May 26, 2025
Is a fasting blood glucose level of 63 mg/dL normal?

In general, a fasting blood glucose level of 63 mg/dL is below the normal range and may indicate hypoglycemia.

The normal fasting blood glucose level for adults should be between 70-99 mg/dL. Levels below this range are considered hypoglycemia and may cause symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, and palpitations. However, occasional mild decreases may be related to diet, exercise, or certain medications and are usually not a cause for concern. It is recommended to immediately consume sugary foods, such as candy, chocolate, or fruit juice. Additionally, seeking timely medical evaluation is advised to rule out other conditions such as abnormal insulin secretion or insulinoma.

It is important to maintain regular eating habits, keeping consistent meal times each day and avoiding prolonged fasting. Eating small, frequent meals—5 to 6 times daily, with intervals of 3 to 4 hours—can help maintain balanced nutrition. If you are prone to hypoglycemia, regular blood glucose monitoring is recommended, especially after dietary or medication adjustments, to track changes in blood sugar levels and better manage your lifestyle.

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Dr. Liu Feng
May 26, 2025
What are the procedures for operating a computerized blood glucose monitoring system?

In general, the operating procedure for computer blood glucose monitoring includes preparation, hand cleaning, preparing the glucose meter, blood collection, and monitoring.

1. Preparation: Prepare a glucose meter, test strips, disinfectant swabs, alcohol swabs, and hand-cleaning supplies, ensuring all items are clean and dry.

2. Hand Cleaning: Thoroughly wash hands with hand soap and running water, then dry them with a clean towel.

3. Preparing the Glucose Meter: Insert the test strip into the designated test port of the glucose meter according to instructions, and turn on the meter to perform a self-check.

4. Blood Collection: Clean the blood collection site, typically the side of a finger, using disinfectant swabs and alcohol swabs. Then, use the lancet of the glucose meter to gently pierce the skin and collect the blood sample.

5. Monitoring: Place the collected blood sample onto the test strip and wait until the glucose meter completes its countdown and displays the result.

Following the above steps ensures the accuracy and safety of computer blood glucose monitoring. Some steps may vary slightly depending on the brand and model of the glucose meter and software; therefore, specific operations should follow the product instructions.

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Dr. Liu Feng
May 26, 2025
What are the principles for emergency management of hyperglycemia?

In general, the emergency management principles for hyperglycemia include assessing vital signs, measuring blood glucose levels, rehydrating with fluids and electrolytes, insulin therapy, and monitoring ketone levels.

1. Assess vital signs: Immediately check the patient's respiration, heart rate, level of consciousness, and blood pressure to determine whether cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be initiated or emergency medical services should be called.

2. Monitor blood glucose levels: Use a blood glucose meter to measure the glucose level and confirm whether it meets the criteria for hyperglycemic crisis, typically defined as a blood glucose concentration exceeding 300 mg/dL or higher.

3. Replenish fluids and electrolytes: Provide the patient with oral or intravenous fluids to replace lost fluids and electrolytes, preventing dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

4. Insulin therapy: Depending on the patient's condition, rapid-acting insulin may be required to lower blood glucose levels quickly. The dosage must be adjusted by healthcare professionals based on blood glucose monitoring results.

5. Monitor ketone levels: If diabetic ketoacidosis is suspected, urine or blood ketone levels should be tested, and the treatment plan adjusted accordingly.

All emergency management principles for hyperglycemia must be carried out under the guidance of a physician to ensure patient safety and effective treatment.

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Dr. Liu Feng
May 26, 2025
How often should an N95 mask be replaced?

Under normal circumstances, the general public should not wear an N95 mask continuously for more than 4 hours in daily non-high-risk settings, and should replace it every 2–3 hours in high-risk environments. Detailed explanations are as follows:

Normally, if the mask is not visibly contaminated, deformed, or causing increased breathing resistance, and has not been exposed to high-risk environments such as direct contact with respiratory secretions, blood, or other body fluids, or close contact with confirmed or suspected cases, its usage duration may be appropriately extended, but cumulative wearing time should not exceed 4 hours. However, in high-risk settings such as fever clinics or nucleic acid testing sites, where the mask is more likely to come into contact with pathogens, its protective effectiveness may diminish more quickly, so it is recommended to replace the mask every 2–3 hours.

If the mask becomes contaminated, damaged, or causes difficulty in breathing, it should be replaced immediately regardless of how long it has been used. Individuals with respiratory difficulties, chronic respiratory diseases, heart conditions, or other special health conditions may experience discomfort from prolonged N95 mask use and should use them under professional guidance, with appropriately reduced wearing time. Additionally, it is not recommended to reuse disposable N95 masks, to avoid increased risk of infection due to insufficient protection.

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Dr. Ren Yi
May 26, 2025
How long after taking progesterone will menstruation occur?

Progesterone is commonly available in capsule form. Generally, menstruation occurs 3-7 days after discontinuation of oral progesterone. The use of progesterone should be conducted under a doctor's guidance; self-administration or dosage adjustment without medical advice is not recommended to avoid unnecessary health risks. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Under normal circumstances, the menstrual cycle is regulated by hormones secreted via the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. When the body lacks sufficient progesterone, the endometrium cannot properly transform and shed, which may lead to delayed menstruation or amenorrhea. Progesterone is a type of progestin medication; after administration, it can convert the proliferative phase endometrium into the secretory phase. Once the medication is stopped, the endometrium loses progesterone support, resulting in withdrawal bleeding—that is, the onset of menstruation. Within 3-7 days after stopping the medication, declining progesterone levels in the body may trigger withdrawal bleeding, thus initiating menstruation.

This timeframe is not absolute, as individual physical conditions and drug absorption levels vary, resulting in differences in the exact timing of menstruation onset. If menstruation has not occurred seven days after discontinuation of the medication, it is advisable to undergo appropriate examinations to rule out the possibility of pregnancy or other organic abnormalities.

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Dr. Yang Ziqi
May 26, 2025
Which is more severe, Influenza B or Influenza A?

Influenza A refers to type A influenza, and influenza B refers to type B influenza. Both type A and type B influenza are caused by influenza viruses. Generally, the severity of type A influenza is usually higher than that of type B influenza. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Type A influenza is caused by type A influenza viruses, such as subtypes H1N1 and H3N2. It mutates easily, spreads widely and rapidly, and often causes large-scale epidemics. Type B influenza is caused by type B influenza virus, mutates more slowly, often causes localized outbreaks, and has a higher infection rate among children.

Type A influenza is characterized by prolonged high fever and severe systemic symptoms. Some high-risk groups, such as the elderly, children, and patients with chronic diseases, are prone to develop into severe cases, which may be complicated by pneumonia, myocarditis, etc. Type B influenza symptoms are relatively mild, but children may experience febrile seizures after infection and require close observation.

Most patients recover within 1-2 weeks, but the rate of severe illness in type A influenza is higher than in type B influenza. The specific severity varies from person to person. If a child develops persistent high fever, rapid breathing, or lethargy, timely medical attention is needed to avoid delayed treatment. Prevention methods include annual influenza vaccination, frequent hand washing, and wearing masks in daily life.

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Dr. Ren Yi
May 24, 2025
What is the best method for self-massage to enhance breast size?

The principle of breast enhancement through massage involves stimulating local blood circulation and lymphatic drainage to promote breast tissue metabolism, while also enhancing the supporting strength of the pectoralis major muscle; however, results may vary among individuals. If you wish to attempt breast enhancement through massage, recommended techniques include straight pushing, circular massage, lifting, chest stretching, and kneading. The specific methods are as follows:

1. Straight Pushing: Place both hands under the breasts and push upward along the outer sides toward the collarbone, repeating 30 times on each side to promote development of the outer chest muscles.

2. Circular Massage: Using the pads of your fingers, gently massage in a clockwise direction starting from the center of the nipple, covering the entire breast. Continue for 3 minutes to enhance breast duct elasticity.

3. Lifting: Support the base of each breast with both hands and lift upward, holding for 2 seconds before relaxing. Repeat 20 times to help prevent sagging. It is recommended to use natural plant essential oils to avoid directly pulling the skin.

4. Chest Stretching: Cross your hands over your chest and push outward while expanding the chest. Hold this position for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat this movement 10 times.

5. Kneading: Gently knead the breasts with your fingers, starting from the base and moving toward the nipple with a gentle lifting motion. Avoid applying excessive force. Repeat this movement.

The effectiveness of breast-enhancing massage varies from person to person and requires time to become noticeable. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also important for breast health. If discomfort occurs during the massage, discontinue immediately and consult a physician.

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Dr. Lv Dapeng
May 24, 2025
Can breast enhancement patches be applied directly to the nipples?

Under normal circumstances, breast enhancement patches should not be applied directly on the nipples.

The nipple is a highly sensitive and delicate part of the breast, with numerous nerve endings and glandular duct openings on its surface. The materials used in breast enhancement patches often contain various chemical adhesives, which may irritate the skin of the nipple and cause allergic reactions such as redness, itching, and rashes if applied directly.

In addition, the nipple needs to maintain normal breathing and excretion functions. Applying breast enhancement patches directly on the nipple may hinder its contact with outside air and affect the discharge of secretions. Prolonged obstruction can easily lead to bacterial growth and increase the risk of nipple or breast infections, which may even result in conditions like mastitis in severe cases.

To be cautious, one should avoid applying breast enhancement patches not specifically designed for this purpose directly on the nipples. If you intend to use breast enhancement patches, ensure they do not come into contact with the nipple or areola. The correct method is to apply them to appropriate areas of the breast away from the nipple and areola. Before initial use, it is advisable to perform a skin test on the inner side of the arm to check for any allergic reaction, ensuring safety before proceeding with use.

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Dr. Lv Dapeng
May 24, 2025