Understanding Kidney Function Abnormalities: eGFR Decline and Management
Renal dysfunction eGFR 66, CREA 1.13, PRO Negative. No significant renal parenchymal damage, no diabetes, no hyperlipidemia, no hypertension. Currently occasionally taking Adderall, Centrum, and other medications like Heli-Tamin F50. The kidneys have cysts and stones, and there w...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Please come to the outpatient clinic for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function Abnormalities: eGFR Decline and Management
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Touching Scabs and Skin Contact
HIV infection I would like to ask the doctor, if I touched a person infected with HIV on a bruised area (about 4-5 days old) where the skin had peeled and scabbed, and then immediately touched my face (which has a few pimples) and rubbed my eyes, is there a risk of contracting HI...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The likelihood of this happening is very low. Currently, HIV/AIDS is classified as an infectious disease. Although clinical symptoms are related to immune function, it is advisable to consult an infectious disease specialist for related concern...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Touching Scabs and Skin Contact
Understanding Glomerular Filtration Rate and Hematuria Changes in Kidney Health
The glomerulus and occult blood? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 64.6, with the standard being greater than 60. Two years ago, it was 84. Does this indicate a decline in kidney function? Additionally, the urine occult blood test has ...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Occult blood testing is different from hematuria; it may be caused by recent infections, kidney stones, medications, or excessive exercise. The filtration rate can vary with fluid intake, renal function deterioration, and increased body weight. It is advisable to assess the prese...[Read More] Understanding Glomerular Filtration Rate and Hematuria Changes in Kidney Health
Risks of Eating Undercooked Pork: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Prevention
Consumption of undercooked pork? Hello: During dinner, I pan-fried some frozen pork collar, and since the meat was cut a bit thick and possibly not fully thawed, I cooked it for about 10 minutes before eating. After consuming some, I noticed the meat was pink, indicating it might...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
1. If there have been no symptoms of diarrhea in the past few days, can we rule out concerns, or is there still a possibility of parasitic infection even without diarrhea? 2. How long should one observe symptoms to determine if an infection has occurred? Generally, if there are...[Read More] Risks of Eating Undercooked Pork: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Prevention
When Can an ICU Breathing Tube Be Safely Removed?
When can the endotracheal tube be removed in the ICU? Hello Dr. Chiu, my mother is 72 years old. On October 9th, she suddenly vomited blood six times, with each episode producing approximately 300-400 cc of blood. She was treated in the emergency department, receiving four units ...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
The timing for extubation should respect the expertise of the ICU physician. If the patient has the following risks: 1. A risk of secondary bleeding, which generally requires observation for 48 to 72 hours. 2. Concerns about aspiration pneumonia resulting from the bleeding proces...[Read More] When Can an ICU Breathing Tube Be Safely Removed?
Do I Need Surgery for Gallstones? Understanding Symptoms and Treatment
Is surgery necessary for gallstones? Hello Doctor, I often experience abdominal bloating and discomfort after meals, and this year it has been particularly bothersome. I have been taking medications for my stomach and to relieve bloating. A few months ago, I had severe bloating t...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
This should be considered symptomatic, and it is advisable to discuss the feasibility of surgery or endoscopic stone removal with your gastroenterologist.[Read More] Do I Need Surgery for Gallstones? Understanding Symptoms and Treatment
Can You Contract HIV from Contaminated Alcohol Swabs?
HIV transmission routes (injection) If the alcohol swab was placed on the table and potentially contaminated with HIV-infected blood or bodily fluids, the risk of HIV transmission through that swab is extremely low. HIV does not survive long outside the human body, and it is part...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries the risk of infection....[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from Contaminated Alcohol Swabs?
Can Eye Drops Contaminated with HIV Blood Transmit the Virus?
Transmission routes of HIV If eye drops are contaminated with red blood, and if that blood is HIV-positive, there is a potential risk of HIV transmission if the contaminated eye drops are applied to the eyes. However, the risk of transmission through this route is considered to b...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
The conjunctiva of the eye is a mucous membrane, and contact with bodily fluids containing the HIV virus poses a risk of transmission.[Read More] Can Eye Drops Contaminated with HIV Blood Transmit the Virus?
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Should You Worry About 100 mg/dL?
Blood sugar issues? Doctor, I apologize for bothering you. I would like to ask about my recent concerns regarding my blood sugar levels. The last time I measured my blood sugar was about three to four hours after a meal (the dinner consisted of two packs of Korean instant noodles...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, a postprandial blood sugar level of 100 mg/dL is quite standard! If you're concerned, you can have your hemoglobin A1c tested, which reflects the average blood glucose levels over the past three months and can provide a more accurate assessment of whether you have pre...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Should You Worry About 100 mg/dL?
Does PrEP Affect HIV Testing Results? Understanding Your Risks and Concerns
Does PrEP affect HIV testing? On September 27, I took 2 PrEP pills 2 hours late, and 1.5 hours later, I engaged in unprotected oral sex as a receptive partner with deep kissing, but there was no anal intercourse. From September 28 to October 1, I took 1 pill each day. Afterward, ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
The report is accurate, but HIV infection has a window period. A negative PCR test on day 13 does not completely rule out the possibility of HIV infection. Currently, there are no studies indicating how long after exposure a PCR test can definitively exclude HIV infection. Genera...[Read More] Does PrEP Affect HIV Testing Results? Understanding Your Risks and Concerns
Understanding Throat and Gastrointestinal Discomfort: When to Seek Help
Throat and gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my recent symptoms. Sometimes I wake up with a bitter taste in my mouth and a feeling of nausea. I also have a slight cough and find myself swallowing excessively for no apparent reason. I recently vi...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If you frequently experience dry mouth and dry tongue, consider consulting an immunologist to check for any autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Throat and Gastrointestinal Discomfort: When to Seek Help
Can I Pause My Salazopyrin Treatment for 2 Months? Expert Advice Needed
Regarding the issue of Seroquel medication? Hello Dr. Gao, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I would like to ask about the continuity of the medication Salazopyrin. I have been taking 2 tablets of Salazopyrin daily to manage my condition for a year and a half. In the fi...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The decision to discontinue medication should be discussed with your attending physician, as they are most familiar with your condition and the changes in your CRP/ESR levels, making their decision more objective. In principle, if your conditio...[Read More] Can I Pause My Salazopyrin Treatment for 2 Months? Expert Advice Needed
Could It Be HIV? Understanding Symptoms After Unprotected Sex
Could it be HIV? Hello doctor, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with a woman yesterday. I have had a cold for three days, and the day after the unprotected intercourse, I noticed that I have swollen lymph nodes. Could this be HIV? I have never had unprotected sex before.
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries the risk of...[Read More] Could It Be HIV? Understanding Symptoms After Unprotected Sex
Ankylosing Spondylitis or Spinal Degeneration: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Ankylosing spondylitis or spinal degeneration? Hello Doctor: I am the one who previously asked about my case in <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/200623">#200623</a>. My blood test and MRI reports have come back. The blood test report (as mentioned by the ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I previously had an X-ray in the immunology department that showed a slight inflammation in the right sacroiliac joint (there was a bit of whiteness, but it was not obvious). However, the MRI report from the rehabili...[Read More] Ankylosing Spondylitis or Spinal Degeneration: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Understanding the Link Between Creatinine Levels and Hypertension Management
Hypertension and Elevated Creatinine Levels Dear Dr. Lin, Last December, my serum creatinine level was 0.78 mg/dL, with a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 122.6 mL/min. I weighed 64 kg and was 170 cm tall. This October, my serum creatinine increased to 0.9 mg/dL, and my micro...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Please take the medication as prescribed and follow up regularly. If you have any concerns, it is advisable to schedule an earlier consultation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Creatinine Levels and Hypertension Management
Understanding Urinary Hematuria and Glomerular Filtration Rate Changes
Urinary occult blood. Glomerular filtration rate? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask about the significance of my urine occult blood test results. Initially, it was 4+, and after 4 months, it changed to 5. Is this an improvement or a worsening for my kidneys? I have a history of ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Please take the medication as prescribed and follow up regularly. If you have any concerns, please return to the clinic to discuss them with your attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Urinary Hematuria and Glomerular Filtration Rate Changes
Choking on Capsules: Understanding Risks and Remedies
Choking on a capsule? This morning, I swallowed a capsule that got stuck on the left side of my throat. Later, I tried to push it down by eating something and drank a lot of water. I ended up coughing so hard that I vomited, and I'm not sure if I expelled the capsule as well...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If you still have symptoms, please go to the hospital for evaluation to determine the issue. Thank you for your message![Read More] Choking on Capsules: Understanding Risks and Remedies
Understanding Recurrent Abscesses: Causes, Treatment, and Management
Recurrent abscess formation? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a few questions. I visited the infectious disease department on October 2nd due to an abscess and was prescribed antibiotics. Since then, the abscess has ruptured twice, but the area surrounding the abscess remai...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. It is likely pus that has not yet drained. 2. We need to assess the symptoms and the medication you are using to determine the next steps; I recommend coming in for an outpatient visit. 3. We need to see if the bacteria are resistant to the antibiotic or if surgical draina...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Abscesses: Causes, Treatment, and Management
Understanding Painful Swelling Near the Liver: Causes and Solutions
A swollen mass or lesion near the hepatic portal area? There is a swollen lump outside the liver area that feels the size of a pimple. It causes sharp pain when touched, and sitting on a chair or getting up also triggers the pain. However, standing or sitting for a long time does...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
You are likely referring to an anal gland rather than a hepatic issue. This enlargement is likely caused by a blockage of the sebaceous glands near the anal opening. If it continues to grow, it is advisable to seek treatment at a surgical clinic.[Read More] Understanding Painful Swelling Near the Liver: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Weight Fluctuations: When to Worry About Gastrointestinal Issues
I'm sorry, but I cannot provide a translation without the specific content you want Hello Doctor, I previously mentioned that I am currently working on weight loss, primarily through dietary control and incorporating walking exercises. I weigh myself about every 2-3 days, or...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
There is only a slight difference in weight, so there is no need to be overly concerned. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Weight Fluctuations: When to Worry About Gastrointestinal Issues