Understanding Foamy Urine: Causes, Concerns, and Kidney Health
Foamy urine issue Hello, Doctor: For the past month or so, I have noticed small bubbles in my urine (sometimes a whole patch when it's severe), most of which disperse and disappear within five minutes, but sometimes a little bit remains for a long time. Additionally, I have ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Ms. Huang: The normal value for urinary protein is less than or equal to 150 mg per day. The report for urinary protein can be presented in two ways: one is as a concentration value, such as 100 mg/dL, and the other is as a number of "+" signs, such as "2+&qu...[Read More] Understanding Foamy Urine: Causes, Concerns, and Kidney Health
Should My Son Continue Taking Fish Oil for Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Can I continue taking fish oil? Hello Dr. Tseng, my son is 21 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for nearly four years. Initially, he was only taking Celebrex (he tried Voltaren but it was ineffective). Over the past year, he has added two capsules of Sa...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The normal range for platelet count is approximately 150,000 to 400,000. Your son's platelet count of 210,000 to 290,000 is actually within the normal range, so there is no need to worry. 1) In healthy individuals who are not taking antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications,...[Read More] Should My Son Continue Taking Fish Oil for Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Concerns About Wild Dog Encounters: Infection Risks and Precautions
Stray dog issue Hello doctor, today I went up the mountain with my family and while riding a motorcycle, two or three wild dogs suddenly rushed towards us, barking loudly. It was quite frightening, but fortunately, they did not chase us afterward. During the encounter, I don'...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If the skin is intact and without wounds, there should be no risk of infectious diseases. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Concerns About Wild Dog Encounters: Infection Risks and Precautions
Is a Fasting Blood Sugar of 90 mg/dL Considered High?
A fasting blood glucose level of 90 mg/dL is generally considered to be within the normal range. However, it is important to interpret this value in the context of individual health conditions and risk factors for diabetes? Hello doctor, is a fasting blood sugar level of 90 consi...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
A level below 100 is considered normal. If there is a family history of diabetes or issues with being overweight, it is advisable to test for glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Is a Fasting Blood Sugar of 90 mg/dL Considered High?
Understanding the Transition from Hyperthyroidism to Hypothyroidism
Hyperthyroidism to hypothyroidism? Hello Doctor, in April I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism with T4: 5.1 and TSH: <0.005. After medication, my levels dropped to low in late May. The doctor advised me to stop the medication for three to five days and then continue with a red...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to visit the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism at a major hospital for diagnosis and treatment. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding the Transition from Hyperthyroidism to Hypothyroidism
Understanding Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Next Steps
Suspected ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, I am 28 years old. Initially, six months ago, after a full-body adjustment, I started experiencing stiffness and pain in my back upon waking up, particularly in the upper back (with no issues in the lower back). After stretching in...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Do I have ankylosing spondylitis? --> It would be helpful to check for HLA-B27. Your symptoms have persisted for a while, and chronic lower back pain in young individuals warrants caution regarding ankylosing spondy...[Read More] Understanding Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count and Elevated LDH Levels
Low white blood cell count, elevated LDH? Hello, doctor. Recently, I had a check-up at the clinic in June, where my white blood cell count was 4,200, with neutrophils at 46% (highlighted in red), lymphocytes at 42.6% (highlighted in red), monocytes at 7.4%, eosinophils at 2.8%, a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Looking solely at the blood cell count from a blood test is not very accurate. I would recommend that a hematologist examine your lymph nodes, as the diagnosis of lymphoma requires at least a physical examination of the lymph nodes. Additionall...[Read More] Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count and Elevated LDH Levels
Can You Contract HIV from a Needle Stick Injury on a Motorcycle Seat?
Transmission routes of HIV (needle stick) If I was injured by a needle on the seat of a motorcycle while moving it in the morning, and if that needle had HIV-infected blood on it, would I be at risk of contracting HIV from the injury? Why or why not?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) data: 1. There are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any other exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected...[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from a Needle Stick Injury on a Motorcycle Seat?
Understanding Symptoms: Is It Multiple Sclerosis or Spinal Issues?
Possible Multiple Sclerosis Hello, doctor. I am a patient with ulcerative colitis, which is currently under control. My colonoscopy showed that the mucosa has healed. I unexpectedly discovered a mild positive result in my cryoglobulin test after being diagnosed with COVID-19. The...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe there is a higher likelihood of cervical spine compression. If you are concerned about multiple sclerosis, it would be advisable to have an evaluation by a neurologist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua H...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Is It Multiple Sclerosis or Spinal Issues?
Understanding Symptoms: Is It Multiple Sclerosis or Spinal Issues?
Possible Multiple Sclerosis Hello, doctor. I am a patient with ulcerative colitis, which is currently under control, and my colonoscopy showed that the mucosa has healed. I unexpectedly discovered a mild positive result in my cryoglobulin test after being diagnosed with COVID-19....
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe there is a higher likelihood of cervical spine compression. If you are concerned about multiple sclerosis, it would be advisable to have an evaluation by a neurologist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Changhua H...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Is It Multiple Sclerosis or Spinal Issues?
Understanding RA Diagnosis: Interpreting Joint Ultrasound Results
Is it confirmed? I started seeing a rheumatologist at the end of last year (2022) due to morning stiffness in my fingers. My rheumatoid factor test results have been inconsistent, showing both positive and negative results. The only relatively consistent finding is from the ultra...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Currently, the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) still requires a comprehensive evaluation based on multiple test results, as relying on a single data point has lower accuracy. However, given the number of inflamed and painful joints you ha...[Read More] Understanding RA Diagnosis: Interpreting Joint Ultrasound Results
Chest Pain and Nausea After Sleepless Nights: When to See a Doctor?
Chest pain and nausea after staying up late? If you experienced chest pain and nausea after staying up for 1 to 2 days, but the symptoms resolved after a day, it is still advisable to consult a doctor. While the symptoms may have improved, chest pain can be a sign of a serious co...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If you are experiencing intermittent chest pain, please consult a cardiologist. Thank you.[Read More] Chest Pain and Nausea After Sleepless Nights: When to See a Doctor?
Should I Continue Taking Celebrex After 25 Days with No Improvement?
I have been taking Silhouette for 25 days with no results. Should I continue taking Silhouette? Hello Dr. Gao, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I am currently undergoing treatment with 2 tablets of Celebrex daily, and my inflammation markers are within the normal range...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I recommend that you take the medication for a full 28 days. If you still do not see any improvement, please consult your physician for a medication adjustment. This approach not only allows for a longer evaluation period of the anti-inflammato...[Read More] Should I Continue Taking Celebrex After 25 Days with No Improvement?
Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Inquiry about Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello, Doctor. Over the past two to three years, I have frequently experienced skin allergies (rashes). When I am back in my hometown (Miaoli), my condition improves significantly during my vacation, but it immediately relapses when I return to ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. For someone like me who experiences long-term allergies that recur, could it be due to environmental factors, stress, or irregular lifestyle? What should I pay attention to or how can I improve? --> All three fact...[Read More] Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Should My Son Continue Taking Fish Oil with His Condition?
In this situation, is it safe to continue taking fish oil? Hello Dr. Gao, my son is 21 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for nearly 4 years. Initially, he was only taking Celebrex (he tried Voltaren but it was ineffective). Over the past year, he has ad...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) After taking fish oil for one month, my son's platelet count (PLT) is 225 (previously fluctuating between 210 and 250 without fish oil). Should I be concerned that continuing fish oil could lead to internal bleedi...[Read More] Should My Son Continue Taking Fish Oil with His Condition?
Understanding Hypothyroidism Risks in Late Pregnancy: Key Insights
Suspected hypothyroidism detected in late pregnancy? Hello Doctor, I have not undergone any thyroid examinations prior to pregnancy, so I am unaware of my pre-pregnancy condition, and there is no family history of such diseases. During a company health check-up at over eight mont...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Hello, if you have thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy, please visit a large hospital's Endocrinology and Metabolism department. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Hypothyroidism Risks in Late Pregnancy: Key Insights
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever in Teenagers: Causes and Solutions
Elevated body temperature? Hello, my daughter is 14 years old and recently her body temperature has been between 37.5 to 38 degrees Celsius. Previously, her temperature was mostly around 36.6 degrees. She does not have any discomfort, and when her temperature reaches 38 degrees, ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, previously my body temperature was around 36.6°C, but recently it has been between 37.5°C and 38°C. If it's not due to my menstrual cycle and I'm not feeling unwell, it shouldn't be related to the weather. I recommend seeing a pediatric infectious disease sp...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever in Teenagers: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Elevated Alkaline Phosphatase Levels: Causes and Concerns
Alkaline phosphatase Recently, my alkaline phosphatase level was 132, with the normal range being 25-130. I have been taking red yeast rice due to high cholesterol; could this affect the alkaline phosphatase levels? Would dental implants with bone grafts and the use of a regenera...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Elevated alkaline phosphatase levels usually warrant consideration of liver, biliary, and bone issues. If there are no symptoms and the levels are only slightly elevated (2 times the normal value), and if the GOT, GPT, CA 19-9, and alpha-fetoprotein are all normal, there is no ne...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Alkaline Phosphatase Levels: Causes and Concerns
Cholesterol Levels: Understanding Medication Impact and Testing Accuracy
Cholesterol levels were high before medication, but normalized after treatment? Hello Doctor, last month I had a non-fasting blood test at a general clinic, and the results showed total cholesterol 395, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) 312, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) 70. Lat...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello, a total cholesterol level of 395 and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) of 312 is quite uncommon. After three weeks of medication, your total cholesterol dropped to 185, LDL to 112, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) to 64, which is also an unusual decrease. Other values are no...[Read More] Cholesterol Levels: Understanding Medication Impact and Testing Accuracy
Concerns About Eating Food Contaminated with Cockroaches: What to Do?
Eating food that contains cockroaches? 1. I found a small dead cockroach in my bowl while having breakfast. I'm not sure if it was crushed by the food or scalded by the freshly cooked food. At that moment, I didn't think much of it and continued eating. Halfway through,...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Theoretically, there is a risk of transmission, but in practice, the number of human infection cases domestically is quite low, and the risk of transmission from a single exposure is very low. 2. The roundworm typically resides in locations such as the oral cavity and esopha...[Read More] Concerns About Eating Food Contaminated with Cockroaches: What to Do?