Essential Hygiene Tips to Prevent Infections from Contaminated Items
Infection issues Hello, Doctor: 1. Should clothing or items that come into contact with corners of public environments or animals and insects that may harbor a higher concentration of bacteria or parasites (such as stray animals or snails) be specially cleaned? Or is regular wa...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! 1. In addition to washing clothes, it is recommended to include high-temperature drying for cleaning. 2. For handling raw food, it is advisable to wear gloves to avoid infection, as it is uncertain whether there are any wounds on the hands.[Read More] Essential Hygiene Tips to Prevent Infections from Contaminated Items
Understanding Lymphocyte Decline: Causes and Next Steps in Family Medicine
Lymphocyte decrease? Hello, Doctor. Recently, my blood test results show that my lymphocyte count has decreased to 18 (normal range: 19-48), while the other values are generally normal. My neutrophil segment is at 73 (normal range: 40-74) and my white blood cell count is 5090 (no...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Zhang: The values you have presented are still considered within the normal range of clinical variation, meaning they represent acceptable minor fluctuations. If there are no specific symptoms or discomfort, you can continue to follow up at a general internal medicine ou...[Read More] Understanding Lymphocyte Decline: Causes and Next Steps in Family Medicine
Sudden Pain in Long-Standing Lymph Node: When to Seek Medical Attention?
A lymph node that has been inactive for over five years suddenly becomes painful? I previously discovered lymphadenopathy in the right side of my neck, which has not changed in size or caused pain for over five years. I haven't paid much attention to it, but today it suddenl...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, if there are any changes, please be reminded to visit the ENT clinic for further evaluation. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Sudden Pain in Long-Standing Lymph Node: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Risk of HIV and Other Infections from Beach Needle Injuries
Infection issues Hello doctor, I would like to ask if stepping on a syringe at the beach could lead to an HIV infection or any other diseases. Thank you.
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Diseases transmitted through needles are more commonly known to include Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, syphilis, and HIV, among other bloodborne infections. Additionally, there are other infectious diseases caused by various pathogens. It is recommended that you seek medical ev...[Read More] Risk of HIV and Other Infections from Beach Needle Injuries
Understanding Groin Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Groin issues Hello Doctor: One night I woke up and felt pain in my right groin area (it should be the groin, extending slightly upwards from the genital area towards the bladder). The pain comes and goes in a persistent manner. I would like to know what the possible issue could b...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is advisable to have a physician evaluate you in person to clarify the condition. You may first consult your family doctor, who can assess your situation and determine if a referral to a specialist is necessary. Please note that online consult...[Read More] Understanding Groin Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Persistent Fever After COVID-19 Diagnosis: When to Seek Medical Help?
Persistent fever due to COVID-19? I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling unwell. This morning, I suddenly developed a fever. I had tested negative yesterday, so I thought it was just a common cold and went to see a doctor, where I received medication. However, when I got...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! COVID-19 fever may last approximately 3-4 days, and treatment is primarily symptomatic. If there are high-risk factors, please seek medical attention promptly for antiviral medication. Monitor your respiratory status, and if you experience wheezing or worsening symptoms, i...[Read More] Persistent Fever After COVID-19 Diagnosis: When to Seek Medical Help?
Do I Need Rabies Vaccine After Being Bitten by a Formosan Black Bear?
Rabies vaccine Three and a half years ago, I was bitten by a Formosan black bear in the mountainous area of Taitung. I managed to stop the bleeding myself after applying pressure, and once I descended, I only bandaged and treated the wound on my own. Later, I learned that Formosa...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Post-exposure rabies vaccination (vaccination after an animal bite) is recommended to be administered as soon as possible after being bitten by an animal suspected of having rabies. Generally, if rabies infection occurs without appropriate treatment, symptoms typically beg...[Read More] Do I Need Rabies Vaccine After Being Bitten by a Formosan Black Bear?
Understanding the Safety of HPV Vaccines: Myths and Facts
Safety of the HPV Vaccine Hello, doctor. I am considering getting the HPV vaccine, but after researching online, I found that there have been reports of suspected autoimmune diseases associated with the vaccine both domestically and internationally. I would like to know about the...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Currently, there is no definitive evidence to answer your question; however, regarding the safety of the HPV vaccine, I would like to provide the following information for your reference. "While vaccination may be associated with the occurrence of autoimmune diseases,...[Read More] Understanding the Safety of HPV Vaccines: Myths and Facts
Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: Causes and Prevention Tips
Blood Test Report Hello Doctor, I donated blood a couple of days ago and received my blood report. My height and weight are 185 cm and 95 kg, and my blood pressure on that day was 120/84. My ALT level was 98 U/L, which made me a bit anxious. I have donated blood twice before; the...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! The causes of fatty liver include excessive caloric intake, extreme dieting, lack of exercise, and certain medications. It is recommended to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, lose weight, and regularly monitor liver function.[Read More] Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: Causes and Prevention Tips
Understanding Ankle Swelling After Surgery: Causes and Solutions
Swelling of the feet? Hello Doctor, I was injured by a grinding machine due to work, which led to a surgical procedure to stitch up my calf about two weeks ago. Now, my ankle is swollen, feels tight, and I experience numbness and tingling when I touch it. Previously, during my vi...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, please have an orthopedic specialist assess the possible causes of the ongoing swelling. If it is not related to bone, joint, or soft tissue issues, further referral may be necessary. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and ...[Read More] Understanding Ankle Swelling After Surgery: Causes and Solutions
Managing Blood Sugar: Understanding Occasional High Levels with Normal HbA1c
HbA1c 5.5 is normal, but postprandial blood glucose levels are occasionally elevated? Hello, doctor. Since I can use a blood glucose meter in my work environment, I occasionally check my blood sugar at work. However, my blood sugar levels reach 150-160 two hours after meals, and ...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Hello, Xiao Xuan: The normal blood sugar level two hours after a meal is between 80-140 mg/dL. A blood sugar level of 150-160 mg/dL is slightly elevated. Work-related stress, poor sleep, or long-term use of corticosteroids can affect the body's metabolism. Additionally, co...[Read More] Managing Blood Sugar: Understanding Occasional High Levels with Normal HbA1c
Can Bird Collisions While Riding a Motorcycle Lead to Infections?
Infection issues Hello, doctor. If I accidentally hit a bird while riding my motorcycle (with both the motorcycle and helmet getting contaminated), is there a possibility of contracting infectious diseases or infections? After cleaning my hands with soap and then disinfecting wit...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Diseases that can be transmitted from birds are typically spread through the eyes, mouth, or nose. If there is no direct contact with birds in these areas, it is important to maintain proper hand hygiene to prevent the hands from coming into contact with birds and their se...[Read More] Can Bird Collisions While Riding a Motorcycle Lead to Infections?
Unexplained Swelling in a Child's Pinky Finger: Causes and Concerns
Unexplained swelling of a child's little finger? Last night, after taking my 9-year-old son to the Fengjia Night Market in Taichung, we headed back to Changhua. Upon returning, I noticed that my son's little finger was inexplicably swollen, and he hadn't injured it...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, if you have any concerns, it is recommended to visit a pediatric outpatient clinic for a physician's evaluation. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares abou...[Read More] Unexplained Swelling in a Child's Pinky Finger: Causes and Concerns
Can Bird Collisions While Riding a Motorcycle Lead to Infections?
Infection issues Hello, doctor. If I accidentally hit a bird while riding my motorcycle (with both the motorcycle and helmet getting contaminated), is there a possibility of contracting an infectious disease or infection? After cleaning my hands with soap and then disinfecting wi...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Diseases that can be transmitted from birds are typically spread through the eyes, mouth, or nose. If there is no direct contact with birds through these areas, it is important to maintain proper hand hygiene to prevent hands from coming into contact with birds, their secr...[Read More] Can Bird Collisions While Riding a Motorcycle Lead to Infections?
Can Bird Collisions While Riding a Motorcycle Lead to Infections?
Infection issues Hello, doctor. If I accidentally hit a bird while riding my motorcycle (with both the motorcycle and helmet getting contaminated), is there a possibility of contracting an infectious disease or infection? After cleaning my hands with soap and then disinfecting wi...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Diseases that can be transmitted from birds are usually spread through the eyes, mouth, or nose. If there is no direct contact with birds through these areas, it is important to maintain good hand hygiene to prevent hands from coming into contact with birds and their secre...[Read More] Can Bird Collisions While Riding a Motorcycle Lead to Infections?
Struggling with Headaches and Insomnia: Understanding Your Symptoms
Lying down with a headache makes it difficult to sleep? I often experience tension-type headaches on both sides of my temples and at the back of my head after lying down. The pain feels like pressure. Additionally, when I go to bed and close my eyes, I feel very awake and cannot ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! I recommend that you first visit a family medicine or general internal medicine clinic to rule out any physiological issues. Additionally, please pay attention to sleep hygiene and adjust your daily routine to improve your sleep quality.[Read More] Struggling with Headaches and Insomnia: Understanding Your Symptoms
Can Herpes Spread Through Washing Hair and Face?
Herpes issues? Doctor, can herpes be transmitted to other areas through the water flow while washing hair and face? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Blisters can be contagious before they crust over. The contagious period for shingles is highest 2 to 3 days before the rash appears and until the lesions crust over. Transmission can occur through respiratory droplets and bodily fluids. Individuals who have not had chicke...[Read More] Can Herpes Spread Through Washing Hair and Face?
Can Long-Term Use of Iron Supplements Cause Nail Discoloration?
Drug-related inquiries? Is it possible to develop a light purple discoloration at the base of the fingernails if I have been taking Ferrous Fumarate for about a year, approximately three times a week, while avoiding tea, coffee, and milk?
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, you are currently using iron supplements. It is uncertain whether the discoloration at the base of your fingernails is related to the iron supplements. It is recommended that you consult a dermatologist for further evaluation. Online consultations are not equivalent to an ...[Read More] Can Long-Term Use of Iron Supplements Cause Nail Discoloration?
Can Rabies Vaccination Lead to Rabies Infection Through Injection Site?
Is it possible to contract rabies from receiving a rabies vaccine or other vaccines? Hello, is it possible to contract rabies due to the injection site of a rabies vaccine or other vaccines coming into contact with certain substances, leading to an infection?
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is likely very minimal. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits, and I cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Can Rabies Vaccination Lead to Rabies Infection Through Injection Site?
Accidental Ingestion of Ichderm Cream: What You Need to Know
Accidental ingestion of topical ointment? Today, I applied Ichderm cream (Doxepin 5% cream, 15 gm tube) from the brand Meishi for folliculitis in the intimate area. After applying the cream, I washed my hands and later ate some cookies. I noticed that there was a bit of the cream...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, if it is a very small amount of accidental exposure, theoretically it should not have a significant impact on your body. You can observe for a few days to see if there are any discomforts. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provi...[Read More] Accidental Ingestion of Ichderm Cream: What You Need to Know