Concerns About Infection Risks from Minor Blood Sampling Injuries
Infection issues Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been feeling anxious about an issue. I used a safety lancet (one touch) for blood sampling, and I have a small wound. After about 10 hours, the next day when I went to work, I forgot about the blood sampling wound and accidental...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Sir, According to the announcement from the Centers for Disease Control, the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is transmitted through contact with blood or bodily fluids (semen, vaginal secretions, breast milk) that come into contact with mucous membranes or open skin woun...[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks from Minor Blood Sampling Injuries
Post-Car Accident Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention
Car accident injuries? Hello Doctor: I was in a car accident two days ago, where I was rear-ended by another vehicle. At the moment of impact, I experienced severe pain in my left hip and was unable to get up; I had to crawl on the ground. After being transported to the hospital ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, the pain from a bruise may take some time to heal. If you continue to experience discomfort or have neurological symptoms, you may want to seek further evaluation from a neurosurgeon. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide di...[Read More] Post-Car Accident Injuries: When to Seek Medical Attention
Persistent Neck Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Swelling and Pain
Swelling in the front of the neck on both sides and centrally, near the clavicle, with discomfort, tenderness upon palpation, pain while swallowing, and a dry cough without sputum. Symptoms worsen from afternoon to evening? On May 1, I experienced discomfort on the right side of ...
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Dear Ms. Fi, Thank you for your detailed account of your current health status. According to your letter, you have seen a physician three times, but your symptoms persist. I would recommend that you consult an otolaryngologist again to assess your condition and determine if furt...[Read More] Persistent Neck Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Swelling and Pain
Which Specialist to Consult for Symmetrical Blue Veins on Face?
Which department to see? Hello doctor, I have recently noticed that there are prominent veins from the corners of my mouth to my chin. They are flat and not raised, but they are symmetrical on both sides. Which specialty should I consult, and what should I pay attention to?
Dr. Liu Hongxiang Reply:
Dear Ms. Wu, Hello. Regarding your recent observation of visible veins from the corners of your mouth to your chin, I recommend that you first consult a dermatologist to assess the situation and determine if any treatment is necessary. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr...[Read More] Which Specialist to Consult for Symmetrical Blue Veins on Face?
Managing High Cholesterol: Key Questions and Answers for Your Health
High cholesterol Hello Doctor: Here are my two test reports, from February 2021 and July 2022: Total cholesterol: 215, 226 (unit: mg/dL) Triglycerides: 69, 126 (unit: mg/dL) HDL-cholesterol: 36, 37 (unit: mg/dL) LDL-cholesterol: 160, 164 (unit: mg/dL) Total cholesterol/...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: Based on the report and medical history you provided, although your current lipid levels have slightly increased, they are still not at the stage where medication is recommended. It is advised that you reduce your calorie intake, increase your consumption of fruits and veg...[Read More] Managing High Cholesterol: Key Questions and Answers for Your Health
Assessing the Risk of Vibrio Infections After Ocean Exposure
Is there a risk of infection from Vibrio species? Hello, doctor. I am a 17-year-old high school student. Today, I went to the beach in Kenting. I knew I had a mosquito bite on my foot that had broken the skin, so I avoided going into the water. However, I accidentally came into c...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: It is generally recommended to clean wounds with saline solution, apply an appropriate ointment, and monitor for any changes in the wound. If there are signs of redness, heat, swelling, or pain, or if the wound does not heal, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Wis...[Read More] Assessing the Risk of Vibrio Infections After Ocean Exposure
Understanding Left Rib Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist or Orthopedist
Left costal margin Recently, I visited a gastroenterologist due to gastrointestinal issues, but I am still experiencing difficulty breathing and nausea after eating. Last night, while lying on my stomach and using my phone, I noticed that the area below my left rib cage was movin...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, your breathing discomfort and nausea are likely related to gastrointestinal issues. If there were a rib fracture, it would typically be accompanied by pain; therefore, if you are not experiencing significant pain, the likelihood of a rib fracture...[Read More] Understanding Left Rib Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist or Orthopedist
Can Novavax Vaccine Be Safe for Patients with Hepatitis B?
Novavax vaccine Hello doctor, I have hepatitis B and have been hesitant to get vaccinated due to concerns about myocarditis or other symptoms. I have the following questions: 1. Can I receive the Novavax vaccine as my first dose? 2. Will the side effects from the first dose be si...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your condition of having hepatitis B is not particularly related to the occurrence of myocarditis after vaccination. Although both the Novavax vaccine and the Medigen vaccine are protein subunit vaccines, there is currently data indicating reports of rare adverse events su...[Read More] Can Novavax Vaccine Be Safe for Patients with Hepatitis B?
Why Did My Boyfriend's Alcohol Tolerance Suddenly Decrease After COVID?
Has having been diagnosed with COVID-19 affected alcohol tolerance? Hello Doctor: My boyfriend was diagnosed with COVID-19 in early June, and his symptoms were mild. He rarely drinks alcohol, only occasionally having a drink with his mother, and the last time he drank was about t...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. There are many reasons for a decrease in alcohol tolerance, including the individual's physical condition at the time (recent fatigue or lack of sleep), whether food was consumed and the type of food (drinking on an empty stomach can lead to quicker intoxication), ...[Read More] Why Did My Boyfriend's Alcohol Tolerance Suddenly Decrease After COVID?
Does COVID-19 Affect Alcohol Tolerance? Understanding Post-Recovery Changes
Has having been diagnosed with COVID-19 affected alcohol tolerance? Hello Doctor: My boyfriend was diagnosed with COVID-19 in early June, and his symptoms were mild. He rarely drinks alcohol and only occasionally has a drink with his mother, the last time being three to four mont...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. There are many reasons for a decrease in alcohol tolerance, including the individual's physical condition at the time (such as recent fatigue or lack of sleep), whether food was consumed and the type of food (drinking on an empty stomach can lead to quicker intox...[Read More] Does COVID-19 Affect Alcohol Tolerance? Understanding Post-Recovery Changes
Understanding Unexplained Chest Discomfort: Possible Causes and Insights
Chest discomfort? Hello Doctor: For the past few days, I have been experiencing a sensation near the lower right chest, close to the epigastric area, that feels like a vibration lasting one or two seconds, somewhat resembling peristalsis or friction, but without any actual sound....
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, if your vibrations are related to your heartbeat, it may be necessary to consider whether there are any heart or aortic diseases. If your vibrations are not related to your heartbeat, it may be worth considering whether there are any esophageal o...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Chest Discomfort: Possible Causes and Insights
Sudden Sharp Pain in Upper Left Back After Shower: Causes and Concerns
Sudden sharp pain in the upper left back after taking a shower? Hello Doctor: I am currently 23 years old, 163 cm tall, and weigh 55 kg. Aside from panic disorder, I have no significant medical history, and I have undergone a 24-hour Holter monitor with no abnormalities. Today, a...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello: Heart pain accompanied by cold sweats and pale complexion may be related to the spine or back muscles and ligaments. You can visit an orthopedic specialist.[Read More] Sudden Sharp Pain in Upper Left Back After Shower: Causes and Concerns
Sudden Dizziness, Nausea, and Cold Sweats: What Could It Mean?
Sudden dizziness, vomiting, and cold sweats? Hello, Doctor. I would like to consult about my symptoms. On July 7th, at around 3 AM, I was suddenly awakened from deep sleep by a wave of dizziness. After waking up, the dizziness intensified, and my vision felt shaky. I then had an ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Hsuan: 1. Vertigo is a common clinical symptom; however, there are sometimes differing perspectives on its definition. Many people often confuse vertigo with dizziness, and physicians, due to time constraints and communication difficulties, may not make a clear distinc...[Read More] Sudden Dizziness, Nausea, and Cold Sweats: What Could It Mean?
Is It Too Late to Measure Blood Pressure at 10 AM?
Regarding the timing of blood pressure measurement? Hello doctor, I recently experienced dizziness for unknown reasons and visited a family medicine clinic. The doctor advised me to measure my blood pressure every morning for two weeks. My wake-up time is around 10:00 or 10:30 AM...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: It is generally recommended to measure blood pressure half an hour after waking up and one hour before bedtime, while maintaining a relaxed state during the measurement. There are no strict regulations regarding the time of waking up. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Is It Too Late to Measure Blood Pressure at 10 AM?
Should You See a Doctor for a Persistent Lump After an Injury?
Hematoma Hello Doctor: I had a car accident a month ago and had an X-ray done, which showed no abnormalities in the bones. The bruising has subsided, but there is still a lump, and it still hurts when pressed. Should I go to a clinic or hospital to see a doctor?
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If the X-ray of your bones taken after the car accident showed no abnormalities and the bruising has disappeared, the painful lump you are pressing on may be due to a muscle contusion causing localized tightness and inflammation. It is recommended that you apply a warm com...[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for a Persistent Lump After an Injury?
Rabies Risk After Contact with Animal Remains: What You Need to Know
Regarding rabies exposure? Recently, I went to Shuo Creek in Taitung and discovered an animal carcass submerged in the water (the body was already skeletal but still had some soft tissue). Out of curiosity, I touched the carcass, and since I have a habit of biting my lips, I only...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen: 1. According to the announcement from the Centers for Disease Control on May 3, 2019, exposure to wild mammals (such as badgers, civets, Taitung money mice, bats, etc.) with an exposure level of Category II (inclusive) or higher requires immediate medical attentio...[Read More] Rabies Risk After Contact with Animal Remains: What You Need to Know
Can You Take Cold Medicine After Receiving the BNT Vaccine?
Can I take cold medicine the day after receiving the BNT vaccine? Hello, doctor. Yesterday, before receiving the BNT vaccine, I experienced a dry throat, which I initially thought was due to spending too much time in an air-conditioned room. However, today I started experiencing ...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: After receiving the BNT vaccine, you can take over-the-counter cold medications to relieve symptoms. However, since COVID-19 can present similar symptoms, it is recommended that you use a rapid test kit before taking any medication. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Can You Take Cold Medicine After Receiving the BNT Vaccine?
Post-Vaccine and COVID-19 Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help
Vaccination and Symptoms After Confirmed COVID-19 Infection Hello Doctor, in mid-April of this year, after receiving the third dose of the Moderna vaccine, I occasionally experienced symptoms such as chest tightness, chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations. After underg...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Sir: 1. Many hospitals have established integrated outpatient clinics for COVID-19 survivors; therefore, you can look for a nearby hospital that is suitable for your treatment to address your concerns. 2. Your description may indicate "autonomic nervous system dysfunc...[Read More] Post-Vaccine and COVID-19 Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help
Should You See a Specialist for Autonomic Nervous System Disorders?
Autonomic nervous system dysfunction I was referred to a family medicine doctor by a friend, who diagnosed me with autonomic nervous system dysfunction. I was prescribed Mirtazapine, and while I've seen some improvement, I still don't feel well. Some people say that aut...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Autonomic nervous system disorders are mostly caused by changes in lifestyle and stress, leading to physical and mental discomfort. Typically, there is no specific organ damage involved. The primary role of medication is to alleviate your discomfort. To achieve a complete ...[Read More] Should You See a Specialist for Autonomic Nervous System Disorders?
Can You Take Vitamin D While on Anticoagulants? Expert Insights
Anticoagulants Hello, I would like to ask if it is safe to take vitamin D while on anticoagulants. Thank you.
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: There are no specific interactions between anticoagulants and vitamin D, and they can be taken together. Additionally, it is important to note that the recommended dosage of vitamin D by the National Health Administration of the Ministry of Health and Welfare is up to 2000...[Read More] Can You Take Vitamin D While on Anticoagulants? Expert Insights