Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Oral and Anal Concerns
Regarding healthcare? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask three questions. 1. If there is a wound in the mouth (such as on the lips or inside the mouth), can I get infected if I eat something that has HIV-infected blood or bodily fluids? 2. Similarly, if I have a wound in my m...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. If bodily fluids contain live HIV, there is indeed a risk of infection. 2. All diseases transmitted through bodily fluids or droplets have the potential for infection. 3. Viruses typically die within minutes outside the human body, and public restrooms are unlikely to have bod...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Oral and Anal Concerns
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks in Public Spaces: Key Insights
I forgot to ask for additional information? Hello, doctor! I apologize for my question. If someone with anal fissures or hemorrhoids sits on a public chair and comes into contact with HIV-infected blood or bodily fluids, could they be at risk of infection? I also forgot to ask, i...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, if an open wound comes into contact with body fluids containing the HIV virus, there is indeed a risk of infection. However, the HIV virus dies within minutes once it leaves the human body, so the likelihood of encountering live HIV in a public place is very low. It is adv...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks in Public Spaces: Key Insights
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Public Restroom Use
Probability of HIV Infection Hello, doctor: I just used a public restroom and didn't notice that there was menstrual blood left on the toilet seat from the previous user. I sat down directly on it. If the previous person had HIV, what is the risk of infection in this situati...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control data, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluids carries a risk of infectio...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Public Restroom Use
Understanding Abdominal Heat: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Abdominal heat flow Hello, Doctor. About a week ago, I experienced a warm sensation in the middle-left area of my abdomen (slight warmth and mild pain when pressed). I have noticed an increase in flatulence and burping. Four days ago, I visited a doctor who prescribed medication ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: The gastroscopy examination showed no issues, but taking stomach medication from the pharmacy has improved your condition. It is recommended that if symptoms persist, you should consult a gastroenterologist to identify the underlying problem. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Abdominal Heat: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Understanding Symptoms: Could It Be Acid Reflux After Overeating?
Suspected gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? Last night, I had a very filling dinner, and while sitting, I felt uncomfortable and had to sit up to burp for relief. I also did not have a bowel movement all day yesterday. During the night, I slept for about four hours but woke...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If symptoms persist, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Could It Be Acid Reflux After Overeating?
Can Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Use These Pain Relief Patches?
Kidney problems Hello doctor, my father asked me to help him buy water-based patches, but he has chronic kidney disease with a glomerular filtration rate of 52. He is concerned that the patches might harm his kidneys. I would like to ask if it is safe to purchase the following pa...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
The patch should not have a significant impact on kidney function. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Use These Pain Relief Patches?
Blood in Sputum Without Cough: Understanding Possible Causes
Coughing up blood-stained sputum without coughing? Today, I started experiencing a sore throat and a fever of 38 degrees Celsius. While taking a shower in the evening, I coughed up phlegm and noticed blood in it, but I haven't had a runny nose or a cough. I visited a clinic ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If symptoms persist, it is recommended to see a pulmonologist for further evaluation. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Blood in Sputum Without Cough: Understanding Possible Causes
Can Hyperthyroidism Recur After Stopping Medication for One Month?
Inquiry about recurrence of hyperthyroidism? Hello, doctor. I previously had hyperthyroidism and was treated for a year and a half, during which my levels were normal. I stopped my medication last month, but recently I've been feeling unwell and more anxious. Is it possible ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If you feel that your symptoms are severe, you can schedule an earlier follow-up appointment. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can Hyperthyroidism Recur After Stopping Medication for One Month?
Understanding Immune System Tests: What Your Results Mean for You
Immune system Anti-Thyroglobulin Antibody (TA) = 13.87 Anti-Nuclear Antibody = Negative at 1:80 C4 Quantitation = 58.46 C3 Quantitation = 137.97 Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase Antibody (AMA) = <3.00 High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP) = 0.16 Rheumatoid Factor = 12...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Your report shows that only your IgE level is elevated, which is indicative of an allergic condition. If your C4 level is slightly elevated, it is not a concern; C4 can increase when the body is unwell and does not have special significance. I r...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Tests: What Your Results Mean for You
Accidentally Swallowed Shrimp Shell: Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Ingestion Issues (Small Amount of Shrimp Shell) If you accidentally swallowed a small amount of shrimp shell (due to not peeling it properly and not chewing it thoroughly) and now feel a sensation of something stuck in the back of your mouth, without pain but just an odd feeling,...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I suggest the following: 1. You can drink more water to see if it alleviates the sensation, as it is often caused by foreign substances adhering to the mucous membranes. 2. Sometimes, the sensation of a foreign body may be due to damage to the m...[Read More] Accidentally Swallowed Shrimp Shell: Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Recurring Monthly Fevers: Unraveling the Mystery Beyond Flu and COVID
Recurring fever every month that is neither influenza nor COVID-19? Since changing jobs in the second half of last year, I've been experiencing a lot of health issues (previously, I would only catch a cold once every six months). In May, I developed numerous unexplained red ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Recurrent fever is still a concern, and I recommend that you see a rheumatologist for further evaluation and testing. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Changhua Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare is here to assi...[Read More] Recurring Monthly Fevers: Unraveling the Mystery Beyond Flu and COVID
Understanding Nerve Pain: Managing Stress-Induced Tingling Sensations
Tingling sensations during times of stress? Doctor, I apologize for the interruption. Over the past year, I have noticed that whenever I experience a certain level of anxiety (which seems to have happened once or twice in my childhood as well), I start to feel localized tingling ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If these symptoms persist, it is advisable to visit a hospital for examination to confirm the diagnosis. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Nerve Pain: Managing Stress-Induced Tingling Sensations
Risks of HIV Infection from Fingerstick Blood Sampling in Hospitals
Blood draw needle infection Doctor, when conducting HIV testing in a hospital using fingerstick blood sampling, is a new lancet used for each individual? If the lancet is not changed and the previous person tested positive for HIV, would using the same lancet for my blood sample ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Medical institutions dispose of used needles and do not reuse them, so there is no risk of transmitting HIV.[Read More] Risks of HIV Infection from Fingerstick Blood Sampling in Hospitals
Understanding HIV Infection Risks from Used Gaming Consoles
Risk of HIV Infection If I buy a second-hand gaming console and touch my mouth without cleaning my hands, can I get infected with HIV (especially if there are small wounds in my mouth and on my hands)? The console does not have any visible fluids, but I am concerned that the prev...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
A. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal sex without a condom with an HIV-infected individual poses a risk of infection through the exchange of...[Read More] Understanding HIV Infection Risks from Used Gaming Consoles
Understanding Low Complement C3 Levels: Causes and Concerns
Low complement C3 levels? Hello, I would like to ask you about my previous emergency department lab report. Date: 10/21/112 - Hemoglobin: 13.6 - MCH: 29.8 - MCHC: 31.7 - MCV: 93.9 - Platelets: 239 - RBC: 4.57 - RDW: 11.8 - WBC: 6.8 - Basophil: 0.7 - Eosinophil: 1.0 - Lymphocyte...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Is it possible for an average person to have low C3 levels, or is low C3 always abnormal and related to autoimmune diseases? --> Yes, it is possible. Low C3 levels do not necessarily indicate an autoimmune disease. ...[Read More] Understanding Low Complement C3 Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding the Window Period for STI Testing: Your Concerns Addressed
Window period for a ten-in-one STI test? Hello doctor, I had a high-risk sexual encounter on October 9th last year and subsequently contracted Chlamydia, which has made me very worried about the possibility of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). I received treatment and...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Yes. 2. First, maintain personal hygiene and ensure adequate hydration. Next, using condoms during sexual contact with strangers is essential for safe sex.[Read More] Understanding the Window Period for STI Testing: Your Concerns Addressed
Is Finger Trembling a Side Effect of Central and Peripheral Nervous System Abnormalities?
Is finger tremor a side effect manifestation of "central and peripheral nervous system abnormalities" caused by taking Seroquel? Hello, Doctor. I am 21 years old and was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis about three years ago. I have been taking Salazopyrin for appr...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is this a manifestation of "central and peripheral nervous system abnormalities" as a side effect? --> If you have an irregular eating pattern, the likelihood of experiencing side effects related to the ...[Read More] Is Finger Trembling a Side Effect of Central and Peripheral Nervous System Abnormalities?
Can Palatal Expanders Help Alleviate Nasal and Eye Allergy Symptoms?
Can the installation of a maxillary expander improve symptoms of nasal and ocular allergies? Hello, Doctor. I am a 20-year-old male junior. I was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis at the age of 17. Since childhood, I have experienced allergic rhinitis with symptoms such as a ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. It is possible that the maxillary expander may also slightly alter the nasal cavity structure, thereby improving symptoms of nasal mucosal swelling and obstruction, but the improvement in eye symptoms is more difficult to explain. There is no c...[Read More] Can Palatal Expanders Help Alleviate Nasal and Eye Allergy Symptoms?
Understanding Unexplained Inflammatory Pain: A Guide for Young Adults
Unexplained inflammatory pain? I am currently 23 years old. I started experiencing occasional knee pain in middle school, but it wasn't particularly severe. The frequency of inflammation and pain has increased with age. Since high school, I have also had issues with inflamma...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe that conditions such as "recurrent rheumatic disease" can be monitored in the field of immunology and rheumatology. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Inflammatory Pain: A Guide for Young Adults
Understanding Subclinical Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms vs. Lab Values
Hyperthyroidism issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about the definition of severe hyperthyroidism. Does it refer to the severity of symptoms or the laboratory values? A family member experienced delusions and went to the hospital for evaluation. During blood tests, they w...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
The psychiatric symptoms caused by methimazole are usually less severe. Additionally, testing for TSH receptor antibodies can assist in the evaluation. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Subclinical Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms vs. Lab Values