Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Unknown Blood Exposure
Risk of HIV Infection Hello Dr. Lin, today after washing my clothes, I noticed a few small dried blood stains on them while hanging them out to dry. I absentmindedly picked at them, but I couldn't confirm if the blood was mine, as I hadn't noticed it before. Later, I we...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, viruses die quickly outside the human body and are unlikely to remain on dried blood stains. It is even more difficult for them to be transmitted by touching your hands, then touching a tissue, and subsequently coming into contact with the urethra. There is no need to worr...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Unknown Blood Exposure
Should I Continue Taking Celebrex for Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Should I continue taking Xarelto? Hello Dr. Tseng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I am currently undergoing stable treatment with two tablets of Celebrex daily, and my inflammatory markers are within the normal range. My current symptoms only include about one hour o...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The user has been taking the medication continuously for 26 days, but feels that there has been no improvement in morning stiffness and back pain. It is recommended to return for an evaluation to determine if the medication is ineffective, in which case a change in medication may...[Read More] Should I Continue Taking Celebrex for Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding Morning Stiffness and Pain in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Is this morning stiffness (and pain) a symptom of ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Dr. Tseng, both my son and I have been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis by rheumatologists, but I find it quite peculiar that our experiences of morning stiffness are completely different. When I...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Morning stiffness in ankylosing spondylitis refers to the stiffness experienced upon waking and moving, whether bending forward or arching backward. The severity of stiffness varies among individuals, but it typically improves after a period of activity. If your symptoms are rela...[Read More] Understanding Morning Stiffness and Pain in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Can Scratched Groin Skin Lead to HIV Infection After Safe Sex?
Is there a risk of HIV infection from a scratched area in the groin? Recently, I had sexual relations with a sex worker. About 1-2 months later, I noticed that my groin area had been scratched and was red, with some broken skin, but there was no significant bleeding. I used a con...
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 other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk o...[Read More] Can Scratched Groin Skin Lead to HIV Infection After Safe Sex?
Post-Surgery Diet: Can You Continue Drinking Clam Extract?
Postoperative Diet for Kidney Stones I usually consume commercially available clam essence. After undergoing surgery, can I continue to use it, or is it a product that may contribute to stone formation and should be used sparingly?
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Three meals a day are normal, with low oil and low salt. Clam extract can be used sparingly. There are many types of kidney stones, one of which is uric acid stones, making it even more unsuitable to consume foods high in purines.[Read More] Post-Surgery Diet: Can You Continue Drinking Clam Extract?
Assessing Infection Risks from Accidental Blood Exposure in Healthcare
Infection risk Hello, doctor. Recently, during my internship at the hospital, someone left an alcohol swab contaminated with a patient's blood on the table. While I was reaching for gloves, my finger accidentally touched it. I have a habit of picking at my thumb, so I'm...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of transmission for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infecte...[Read More] Assessing Infection Risks from Accidental Blood Exposure in Healthcare
Can You Get HIV from Food or Water Contaminated with Infected Blood?
HIV Transmission Routes (Food) If you have an oral wound and consume water or food that contains HIV-infected bodily fluids, there is a potential risk of HIV transmission. However, the likelihood of transmission through oral exposure is considered to be very low. HIV is primarily...
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: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in sexual activities such as oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected ind...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Food or Water Contaminated with Infected Blood?
Can You Get HIV from Walking Barefoot on Sharp Objects?
Transmission routes of HIV (foot) Walking barefoot and getting pierced by a sharp object that is contaminated with HIV-infected bodily fluids poses a risk for HIV transmission, but the likelihood is very low. HIV is primarily transmitted through direct contact with certain bodily...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any other exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries the risk of inf...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Walking Barefoot on Sharp Objects?
Concerns About HIV Symptoms After Protected Sex: What to Do?
Inquiry about HIV symptoms? Last week, I had sexual intercourse with a condom, but I have a solid herpes sore on my vulva that is not bleeding. If my partner has HIV, am I at risk of contracting the virus? This week, I've been feeling the urge to use the restroom after eatin...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are two definitions regarding the latency period after HIV infection: A. It refers to the primary infection symptoms resembling flu that appear approximately 2-6 weeks after infection. B. It refers to the per...[Read More] Concerns About HIV Symptoms After Protected Sex: What to Do?
Can You Get HIV from Eating or Drinking Contaminated Food or Water?
HIV Transmission Routes (Food) If you have an open wound in your mouth and you consume food or water that contains HIV-infected bodily fluids, there is a potential risk of HIV transmission. However, the risk is generally considered to be low. HIV is primarily transmitted through ...
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: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of i...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Eating or Drinking Contaminated Food or Water?
Concerns About Blood Draw Infections: Risks and Recommendations
Blood draw infection issues? Hello, Doctor. I recently visited a medical facility's health check center for a physical examination. During the blood draw, the nurse used an alcohol swab for disinfection and then placed the swab on the table. After completing the blood draw, ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
We recommend that you consult an infectious disease specialist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Concerns About Blood Draw Infections: Risks and Recommendations
Can Allergic Reactions Increase HIV Infection Risk Through Mucous Membranes?
HIV Transmission Routes (Allergy) I have an allergic constitution, so my eyes, nose, and ears are easily itchy. To relieve the itching, I often use my hands to touch the mucous membranes of my eyes, ears, and nose. If my hands have HIV-infected bodily fluids and I continuously to...
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: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk o...[Read More] Can Allergic Reactions Increase HIV Infection Risk Through Mucous Membranes?
Understanding the Link Between Anxiety and Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk
The likelihood of anxiety-induced rheumatoid arthritis? Hello Doctor, I previously asked you questions related to rheumatoid issues. I have health anxiety and had blood tests for rheumatoid-related checks last November. At that time, the doctor said the results were normal and ad...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. First of all, I'm not sure where you saw that "people who are under long-term stress have a 176 times higher chance of developing rheumatoid arthritis compared to normal individuals." In my knowledge and the relevant literature, ...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Anxiety and Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Early Diagnosis and Concerns at 20
Rheumatoid arthritis Hello, doctor. I would like to ask: 1. In your clinical experience, are there many cases of rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed around the age of 20? 2. Does having rheumatoid arthritis always lead to joint deformities? 3. Is rheumatoid arthritis still considered ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. In your clinical experience, are there many cases diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis around the age of 20? --> Relatively few; it is more common in middle-aged women. 2. Will joints definitely deform after deve...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Early Diagnosis and Concerns at 20
Does Taking Ezetimibe Cause Weight Loss in Heart Patients?
Will taking (Eito tablets) lead to weight loss? Hello doctor, my father is 81 years old and is a heart failure patient. He has a stent implanted in his heart. The doctor hopes to lower his cholesterol, so he prescribed 40 mg of Lipitor (atorvastatin) once daily. This summer, an a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. This issue is more related to cardiology, so I recommend consulting a cardiologist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.[Read More] Does Taking Ezetimibe Cause Weight Loss in Heart Patients?
Understanding Cellulitis: Managing Pain and Mobility Issues
Unable to walk after contracting cellulitis? Three days ago, I was diagnosed with an infection in my left leg. I have been taking my medication regularly, but I have been experiencing fever almost continuously after taking the medication. Additionally, standing up causes unbearab...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, if you are still experiencing a fever three days after starting antibiotics, it usually indicates that the cellulitis has not been adequately controlled. It is advisable to return for a follow-up or consult an infectious disease specialist for evaluation. If the fever has ...[Read More] Understanding Cellulitis: Managing Pain and Mobility Issues
Understanding Prediabetes: Key Questions and Concerns Explained
Hello doctor, I would like to ask some questions about diabetes? I had a health check-up two weeks ago. My fasting blood sugar was 116 mg/dL and my hemoglobin A1c was 5.7%. Does this mean I am in the prediabetic stage or have I already developed diabetes? In the morning, my fasti...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello Mr. Kuo: Your fasting blood glucose is 116, and your hemoglobin A1c is 5.7, which indicates impaired fasting glucose, but it is not diabetes yet. Your blood glucose before lunch is also abnormal, ranging from 117 to 12X. It is recommended that you consult a metabolic specia...[Read More] Understanding Prediabetes: Key Questions and Concerns Explained
Understanding Elevated Creatinine and Triglycerides: Key Insights for Patients
Both creatinine and triglycerides are elevated? Question: I visited my family medicine doctor on Sunday because I previously had high cholesterol issues (last year it was 236). The doctor asked if I could have blood drawn to track my levels today. I replied that I had just gone h...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello, Xiaohua: To measure triglycerides, you should fast for 8-10 hours. The values can be affected by diet, so it is recommended to fast for 8-10 hours and avoid vigorous exercise before the test.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine and Triglycerides: Key Insights for Patients
Do You Need Medication for Fatty Liver and High Cholesterol? What Specialist to See?
Mild to moderate fatty liver, elevated cholesterol levels, and low thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels may require medical evaluation and treatment. It is advisable to consult a physician, specifically an endocrinologist for thyroid issues and a hepatologist or a gastroenter...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello Edward: It is recommended to see a metabolic specialist. If necessary, the physician will prescribe medication for treatment.[Read More] Do You Need Medication for Fatty Liver and High Cholesterol? What Specialist to See?
Traveling with Diabetes: Essential Tips for Your Trip to Vietnam
Traveling Abroad with Diabetes Hello Dr. Lin: My father has type 2 diabetes, diagnosed for a year and a half, with his HbA1c maintained between 5.8 and 6. He is currently controlling it with medication. Next month, he will be going on a 5-day trip to Vietnam with friends. The med...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello Ms. Yang: Each country has its own regulations, so please consult the local customs regarding this issue.[Read More] Traveling with Diabetes: Essential Tips for Your Trip to Vietnam