Managing Sacroiliac Joint Pain During Cold Weather: A Patient's Guide
The cold wave has caused a recurrence of pain in the sacroiliac joint? Hello Dr. Tseng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis (21 years old), and I have been experiencing symptoms for 3.5 years. Currently, under the treatment of a rheumatologist, I have achieved good control...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Some online users have noted that patients with rheumatic and autoimmune diseases may experience joint pain during changes in weather. It is recommended to seek medical evaluation to assess the condition of the disease. Physicians will provide treatment recommendations or adjustm...[Read More] Managing Sacroiliac Joint Pain During Cold Weather: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Kidney Function Decline in Healthy Aging Adults
Kidney problems Hello, doctor. I have come to inquire about some related issues that my friends and family have been experiencing. The patient is a 55-year-old female who maintains a healthy diet (primarily whole foods, with minimal intake of refined, high-sugar, and high-fat foo...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
eGFR 60-70, with no proteinuria, kidney function decline may be attributed to age factors. A low-phosphorus diet currently benefits those in stage 3 (GFR < 60) and it remains inconclusive whether implementing it earlier has advantages.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function Decline in Healthy Aging Adults
Essential Health Tips for Dialysis Patients: Supplements and Care Guidance
Which department should I consult for diseases related to dialysis patients regarding dietary supplements? 1. Is it appropriate for dialysis patients to supplement with free lutein and sphingolipids? My mother is currently 67 years old. Last week, she was discharged from National...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
It is recommended that you take your elder to the outpatient clinic of the Department of Nephrology at National Taiwan University to discuss your concerns and any issues encountered with the original attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Essential Health Tips for Dialysis Patients: Supplements and Care Guidance
Understanding Kidney Risks from Pain Medications: A Patient's Guide
Medication Consultation for Kidney Issues Hello Doctor, I previously had severe inflammation and took Sketa capsules and Aceclofenac for a month, two capsules daily, one in the morning and one in the evening. I recently learned that frequent use of pain relief and anti-inflammato...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Please take the medication as prescribed. If you have any concerns, feel free to return for a consultation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Risks from Pain Medications: A Patient's Guide
Understanding HIV Testing Accuracy with Concurrent Hepatitis C Infection
HIV testing issues Hello doctor, if a person is co-infected with HIV and Hepatitis C, and has not taken any treatment for Hepatitis C or antiretroviral therapy, is the HIV test still accurate after a 3-month window period? I have come across information online suggesting that Hep...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Previous literature suggested that infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) might prolong the window period for HIV, hence it was recommended to monitor for up to one year. However, if you have recently tested negative for HCV, then there is no concern for HCV, and the window perio...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing Accuracy with Concurrent Hepatitis C Infection
Managing Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Drops During Dialysis: A Patient's Guide
When blood pressure drops during dialysis and heart rate also decreases, how should it be managed? Hello, Doctor Wu: I have been a dialysis patient for over a year and have hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. I also have coronary artery disease and mild arrhythmia. Last y...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
For heart-related issues, please consult a cardiologist. In cases of hypotension during dialysis, the on-site nephrologist should provide immediate feedback. Each situation is different, so please respond according to the circumstances at that time. Common management strategies i...[Read More] Managing Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Drops During Dialysis: A Patient's Guide
Understanding the Risks of Mixed Thyroid Nodules: What You Need to Know
Mixed cyst? Hello Doctor, during this year's health check-up, I was found to have a thyroid nodule. I recently went to the hospital for an ultrasound and fine-needle aspiration, and no malignant cells were detected. However, the doctor mentioned that the likelihood of malign...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If it is a mixed nodule, please follow up at least once every six months to a year. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Mixed Thyroid Nodules: What You Need to Know
Choking on Pills: Understanding Risks and Symptoms of Medication Ingestion
Choking on medication? I went to see a doctor because of a sore throat. Previously, I had a vitamin C tablet get stuck in my throat, so I have been avoiding pills since then. However, during my recent visit, the doctor prescribed me pills again. After picking up the medication, I...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If a medication is lodged in the trachea, it can potentially cause aspiration pneumonia. A chest X-ray can be performed at the hospital. Common symptoms of aspiration pneumonia may include coughing, wheezing, and even fever. Thank you for your message![Read More] Choking on Pills: Understanding Risks and Symptoms of Medication Ingestion
Impact of High Anti-TPO Levels on Baby's Thyroid Health
Elevated anti-TPO levels may affect the baby? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my situation. When I was three months pregnant, my thyroid tests showed TSH at 0.94, FT4 at 1.17, and anti-TPO at 225 (which is elevated). I have previously been tested for thyroid function with...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If TPO antibodies are positive, please regularly monitor thyroid function. It is still uncertain whether this will affect the fetus. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Impact of High Anti-TPO Levels on Baby's Thyroid Health
Why You Might Wake Up at 5 AM with Breathing Issues: Causes and Solutions
For the past couple of days, I have been waking up at five in the morning with difficulty breathing? Hello doctor, for the past two or three days, I have been waking up at 5 AM feeling congested, with a sore throat and difficulty breathing. I feel like I have a lot of phlegm, and...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If it's inconvenient for you to seek medical attention, you can start by using antihistamines, preferably the newer generation medications that are less likely to cause drowsiness. Additionally, make sure to drink plenty of water to see if ...[Read More] Why You Might Wake Up at 5 AM with Breathing Issues: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Anesthesia Allergies: Risks and Alternatives for Patients
Anesthesia Allergy Consultation About three years ago, I had to undergo surgery for testicular torsion. At that time, I received general anesthesia administered through an IV. I’m not sure if it was during or after the surgery, but the doctor mentioned that I developed pulmonary ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. If I developed acute pulmonary edema after surgery, is it likely due to an allergy to anesthesia, or could there be other possibilities? --> The likelihood is very low. It may be necessary to confirm whether it wa...[Read More] Understanding Anesthesia Allergies: Risks and Alternatives for Patients
Understanding HIV and Hepatitis C Testing: Key Questions Answered
HIV-related issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you the following questions: 1. I used the Abbott fourth-generation HIV rapid test on days 99 and 117 after potential exposure, and both results were negative. Additionally, I had no risk behaviors within the 117 days. Can I...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. According to the current follow-up recommendations, it is advisable to monitor for 2. The window period for Hepatitis C can last up to 6 months, so it is generally recommended to follow up for a duration of six months.[Read More] Understanding HIV and Hepatitis C Testing: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Post-Hospitalization Redness After Cellulitis Treatment
Cellulitis Hello, my dad is about 56 years old and was hospitalized for a week due to cellulitis in his lower leg, which caused a fever. He has been discharged for two days now, and while his leg no longer hurts, it is still red. What could be the reason for this?
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the most common reason is swelling after an infection, which usually subsides gradually when lying down with the affected area elevated. However, if you stand or walk for a long time, the redness and swelling may return. This is related to poor blood circulation following ...[Read More] Understanding Post-Hospitalization Redness After Cellulitis Treatment
Understanding Long Intestines: When to Consider Surgery for Constipation
Longer intestines Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing occasional constipation for a long time, but it has become very noticeable in the past two months, with bowel movements occurring only 1-2 times a week, producing very small amounts of stool, about the size of a fingernail...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: Since I am unaware of your specific clinical issues, I cannot provide you with concrete advice. However, you may try taking medication or consuming certain foods. If there is no improvement, please discuss the next steps with your physician. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Long Intestines: When to Consider Surgery for Constipation
Managing Hypocomplement Urticarial Vasculitis: Treatment Options and Guidance
Hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis syndrome (HUVS) I have been diagnosed with low complement urticarial vasculitis for about six months. My symptoms include skin rashes, weight loss, lower extremity vascular pain, and gum pain, along with peripheral neuropathy and dizziness...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. How to treat hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis? --> Treatment will be arranged based on the severity of the condition. If you only have skin manifestations, antihistamines may be effective; if there is asso...[Read More] Managing Hypocomplement Urticarial Vasculitis: Treatment Options and Guidance
Understanding Renal Cysts: Causes, Symptoms, and Follow-Up Care
Kidney cyst issues? Hello, doctor. I experienced pain in my right upper back at the beginning of September. The pain extended to my right abdomen and groin, prompting me to visit Hospital A for an emergency consultation. An ultrasound of my kidneys revealed a cyst. I was advised ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
You can visit the nephrology outpatient clinic for consultation.[Read More] Understanding Renal Cysts: Causes, Symptoms, and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Human T-Lymphotropic Virus: What Your Positive Test Means
Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) Hello doctor, I have been consistently donating blood and have done so 12 times. The reports for the first 11 times were normal, but this time the blood donation report tested positive for Human T-Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV). My 11th donation was i...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. What is a "Human T-lymphotropic virus" (HTLV) carrier? Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV), primarily classified into HTLV-I and HTLV-II, is screened for antibodies at blood donation centers using enzyme immunoassays. Individuals who test positive for HTLV antibodies t...[Read More] Understanding Human T-Lymphotropic Virus: What Your Positive Test Means
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Your Concerns Addressed
HIV transmission issues Hello Doctor: I am very afraid of HIV. I get scared when I see blood and worry that I might accidentally get infected. Today, while drinking water at home, I noticed a small red mark on my water bottle that looked like dried blood. I had to scrape hard to ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
HIV has three main routes of 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 infection. 2. Blood transmission: (1) Receiving or coming into co...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Your Concerns Addressed
Can You Get HIV from Blood Tests? Understanding the Risks Involved
Is it possible to contract HIV during the blood draw process? Hello, doctor. Thank you for taking the time to answer my question despite your busy schedule. Yesterday morning, I went to a nearby medical laboratory to have my blood tested because I was concerned about my blood sug...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
HIV has three main routes of 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 infection. 2. Blood transmission: (1) Receiving or coming into co...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Blood Tests? Understanding the Risks Involved
Effective Pain Relief Strategies for Sacroiliac Joint Pain in Cold Weather
When a cold front arrives, the sacroiliac joint may experience pain. Are there effective pain relief methods? Hello Dr. Gao, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis (21 years old), and I have been experiencing symptoms for 3.5 years. Currently, under treatment from the rheumat...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) I have observed that the pain in my sacroiliac joint does not improve with either Voltaren or Celebrex; it only worsens when a cold front arrives. It takes more than two weeks of taking Voltaren or Celebrex for any r...[Read More] Effective Pain Relief Strategies for Sacroiliac Joint Pain in Cold Weather