Stepping on a Syringe: Risk of HIV Infection Explained
Stepped on a syringe? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask, if I step on a syringe outside, is it possible to contract HIV this way? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: To determine the previous use of this syringe and whether it has come into contact with HIV-infected bodily fluids, it is important to note that HIV typically dies within a few hours outside the human body. Therefore, the risk of contracting HIV from stepping on a used syr...[Read More] Stepping on a Syringe: Risk of HIV Infection Explained
Understanding Hantavirus and Leptospirosis Infection Risks in Household Settings
Risk of Hantavirus and Leptospirosis Infection Hello Dr. Lin, Yesterday, I went to my elder's house and was about to take a shower when my elder accidentally spilled a cup of water. In a hurry, I grabbed a cloth to wipe the floor. While wiping, I noticed yellow and black st...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. There is no precise data, but viruses typically do not survive outside the body for more than a few days, so there is definitely no risk of transmission after six months. 2. No, because the virus cannot survive that long after six months. 3. Based on the scenario you describ...[Read More] Understanding Hantavirus and Leptospirosis Infection Risks in Household Settings
Understanding Persistent Arm Pain After Injection: When to Seek Help
Needle puncture issues I received an anti-inflammatory injection in my right arm a long time ago, but I still feel pain, soreness, and slight weakness in my arm. There are no visible abnormalities. Could you please help me understand the possible reasons for this? Do I need furth...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, to determine how much time has passed, if it is within a week, it is advisable to just monitor the situation, as it usually improves gradually. If it exceeds a week, you can first consult a family medicine physician or the clinic where the injection was administered for an...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Arm Pain After Injection: When to Seek Help
Understanding Systemic Pain and Itching: A Comprehensive Guide
Generalized tingling, itching, and numbness? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing sneezing, runny nose, and constipation for the past year. I consulted a gastroenterologist and underwent a colonoscopy and endoscopy, which revealed colon polyps, gastric polyps, and gastroesophag...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I recommend starting with a visit to a family medicine physician. Since you are experiencing some allergy symptoms, if you are truly concerned about potential issues with your immune function, you may also consider seeing an allergist or immunol...[Read More] Understanding Systemic Pain and Itching: A Comprehensive Guide
Concerns About Mixing Medications: Understanding Drug Interactions
Medication issues Hello, doctor. I went to see a pediatrician because I have been experiencing a runny nose. The doctor prescribed me a syrup to take before bed when my nasal discharge is heavy, called Tongbi Kang capsules (they are light blue-green and white in color). I just to...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello. Thank you for your question. Tongbikang capsules are a compound antihistamine, and some of the ingredients may cause dry mouth as a side effect. Dry mouth can affect taste perception, which may be the reason for the change in your taste. As long as you discontinue use, thi...[Read More] Concerns About Mixing Medications: Understanding Drug Interactions
Understanding Genetic Risks and Diagnosis of Polycystic Kidney Disease
Diagnosis and Genetics of Polycystic Kidney Disease Hello, my mother has been diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease (PKD), and I would like to know if I might have it as well. During a health check at the age of 33, an ultrasound showed that I have two small cysts on my kidney...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Ms. Sharon: "In asymptomatic patients with normal kidney function who have a family history of Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD), an ultrasound is usually sufficient to diagnose or rule out the presence of the disease. In these individuals, MRI may b...[Read More] Understanding Genetic Risks and Diagnosis of Polycystic Kidney Disease
Understanding HIV Infection Risks in Medical Settings
Risk of HIV Infection I went to get an injection previously, and the nurse placed an alcohol swab (which was almost dry) and the needle on a metal tray to administer the shot. After the injection, she used that same swab to apply pressure to the injection site. Upon reflection, I...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
HIV has three main transmission routes: 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 infection. 2. Blood transmission: (1) Receiving or coming into con...[Read More] Understanding HIV Infection Risks in Medical Settings
Understanding Positive Urinary Protein: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Urinary protein issue? Hello Dr. Huang, I recently underwent a general health check-up, which included blood and urine tests. When I received the report, the nurse mentioned that everything was normal, but I noticed that my urine protein was positive at 1+, while all other result...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello, a urine protein result of 1+ does not necessarily indicate a problem. If you are concerned, you may want to schedule an appointment with a nephrologist (remember to bring your health check report). Additionally, postural proteinuria is a condition where "normal indivi...[Read More] Understanding Positive Urinary Protein: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Is Syphilis Invisible? Understanding Symptoms and Recurrences
Is syphilis invisible? Last February, I suddenly woke up with a fever, a type of fever I had never experienced before. A few days later, I discovered a half-spherical mass the size of a ping pong ball on my cervix. Initially, I thought I had cancer. After a month, the ulcerous sm...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
A. Your description is quite vivid; however, the Treponema pallidum is not that miraculous. It can be cured with a course of penicillin. B. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the modes of transmission are as follows: 1. Close contact during sexual ...[Read More] Is Syphilis Invisible? Understanding Symptoms and Recurrences
Understanding Black Stool: Causes and Concerns During Menstruation
Black stool color? Hello, doctor. Thank you for taking the time to reply 😊. I just started my period two days ago, and today during a bowel movement, I noticed a stool that was black in color... I'm a bit scared 😱 and I'm not sure if it's related to my period... I ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: Black stools may be due to upper gastrointestinal bleeding or the use of iron supplements. To determine the cause, a medical examination is necessary. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Black Stool: Causes and Concerns During Menstruation
Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: What Does 97 Mean?
Fasting blood glucose issues Hello Doctor, I recently received my health check report, which shows that my fasting blood glucose level is 97, which is close to the maximum reference value of 100. The night before the test, I was too busy and only ate two tea eggs for dinner, and ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Currently, it is considered normal. If there is a family history of diabetes or if you are overweight, you may consider testing for hemoglobin A1c. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: What Does 97 Mean?
Can Stage 3a Chronic Kidney Disease Be Reversed? Medications and Tests Explained
Can stage 3a chronic kidney disease be reversed? What medications are available? The patient has diabetes with a glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level maintained at 6.5%. Triglycerides are at 110 mg/dL, uric acid at 4.6 mg/dL, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol at 88.2 mg/dL, ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Ms. Paul, your creatinine level is 135 mg/dL, and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is listed as 1.35 mg/dL, which seems to be incorrect. Please provide the correct values, thank you! (The unit for glomerular filtration rate is ml/min/1.73 m², not mg/dL.) Additionally, a...[Read More] Can Stage 3a Chronic Kidney Disease Be Reversed? Medications and Tests Explained
Is My Allergic Rhinitis Leading to Asthma Symptoms?
I would like to ask if it could be asthma? I have had allergic rhinitis for several years. Recently, during the change of seasons, whenever my nose becomes congested due to allergies, I find myself needing to take deep breaths to feel more comfortable. I also tend to cough a bit ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Allergic rhinitis is indeed related to asthma. Although both conditions are associated with immune function (allergy), since they involve the respiratory system, it is advisable to consult a pulmonologist first. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rhe...[Read More] Is My Allergic Rhinitis Leading to Asthma Symptoms?
Understanding HIV Testing: Can You Rule Out Infection After Risky Behavior?
HIV testing issues Hello doctor, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with a female online friend in early April. I went to a medical testing center in mid-April for an HIV antibody test, which came back negative. On May 8, I noticed inflammation of the glans and visited a urolog...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Yes, after the window period, HIV infection can be ruled out. 2. Currently, the accuracy of anonymous screening or blood tests in the country is over 95%. 3. Engaging in unsafe sexual practices may also pose a risk for other sexually transmitted infections; therefore, usin...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Can You Rule Out Infection After Risky Behavior?
Risk of Infection from Toilet Cleaning: What You Need to Know
Regarding infections? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask if there is a possibility of infection if my mouth came into contact with a toilet trash picker while cleaning the restroom. Thank you for your assistance.
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, let's review the transmission routes of HIV: There are three main modes of transmission for the HIV virus: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in unprotected oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluids carries a ri...[Read More] Risk of Infection from Toilet Cleaning: What You Need to Know
Managing Slightly Elevated Cholesterol: Medication or Lifestyle Changes?
Slightly elevated total cholesterol? Hello doctor, I recently received my cholesterol test results as follows: Total cholesterol 228, triglycerides 155, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) 102.3, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) 107.8, and atherosclerosis risk index 2.23. Should I take m...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If there is no diabetes or cardiovascular disease, improvements can be made through diet and exercise. However, if such conditions are present, medication may be necessary for management. Thank you for your message![Read More] Managing Slightly Elevated Cholesterol: Medication or Lifestyle Changes?
Understanding One-Sided Nosebleeds: When to See an ENT Specialist
Bleeding is more likely to occur on the left side? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask: 1. If there is unilateral epistaxis, but the bleeding stops within about 2 minutes. 2. The nasal blood is not pure blood but has a viscous consistency. * After the bleeding stops, there is bloo...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
If a person experiences a nosebleed on one side, and it occurs infrequently and stops quickly, there is usually no need for concern. However, if it happens frequently, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist for further evaluation. If there has been a head injury, one shou...[Read More] Understanding One-Sided Nosebleeds: When to See an ENT Specialist
Can I Use Biologics for Psoriatic Arthritis with Reactive HBc IgG?
Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about the use of biologics for psoriatic arthritis? Hello, doctor. I have psoriatic arthritis, and one out of three doctors has applied for a biologic agent for me (currently under review). However, one of my blood test results shows HBc IgG...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. A positive HBc-IgG indicates that you have had a past infection and may still have latent hepatitis B virus. You can still use biologics, but it is important to regularly monitor the hepatitis B virus load to check for any reactivation during tr...[Read More] Can I Use Biologics for Psoriatic Arthritis with Reactive HBc IgG?
Unsteady and Dizzy: Understanding Balance Issues in Autoimmune Conditions
Feeling unsteady and unable to maintain balance at all times? Hello, doctor. I have rheumatoid arthritis, and one day after sitting in the same position for too long, I suddenly felt dizzy, weak, and cold, almost fainting. After seeking medical attention, I have been experiencing...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If you are continuously undergoing medication management and follow-up treatment, it is advisable to return to your rheumatologist. This visit can help assess for any potential medication side effects and evaluate for cervical spine compression ...[Read More] Unsteady and Dizzy: Understanding Balance Issues in Autoimmune Conditions
Managing a 10cm Kidney Cyst with Tissue: Expert Advice
Renal cysts Hello Dr. Wu, I recently had a CT scan and found that there is a 10 cm cyst on my right kidney that contains fine tissue. How should I proceed with this? What recommendations do you have?
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
We recommend that you bring the report to the nephrology outpatient clinic for evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Managing a 10cm Kidney Cyst with Tissue: Expert Advice