Symptoms of High Testosterone in Men: Hair Loss and More
Regarding elevated androgen levels in males? I would like to ask what symptoms are associated with elevated androgen levels? Recently, I discovered an issue with male pattern baldness in dermatology, and I'm a bit concerned that it might be caused by high androgen levels lea...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: High levels of male hormones in men can lead to excessive and dense body hair, as well as a robust beard. Your symptoms may be related.[Read More] Symptoms of High Testosterone in Men: Hair Loss and More
Understanding HIV Risks in Monogamous Same-Sex Relationships
Unprotected sex among same-sex partners? Hello, I would like to ask, I am a gay male who is a receptive partner (bottom) and have a steady partner. Both of us are free of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. Sometimes we have unprotected anal intercourse. I woul...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
If both parties are free of sexually transmitted infections, HIV will not be transmitted through intimate contact, provided that neither party has other intimate partners. Even if one partner is HIV positive, the other may not necessarily contract the virus (or may not do so in t...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks in Monogamous Same-Sex Relationships
Understanding Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria: Risks and Treatment Options
Please inquire about the issue of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the human body? Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask the following questions, and I appreciate your time in responding: My father underwent surgery for cancer in December last year and experienced a bowel obstructio...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are gradually replaced by regular bacteria once they return to the community, so the most effective treatment is to avoid prolonged stays in healthcare facilities or nursing homes. 2. The body naturally harbors bacteria, including antibiotic-res...[Read More] Understanding Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria: Risks and Treatment Options
Understanding Behçet's Disease: Symptoms and Diagnosis in Adults
Behçet's disease? Hello, doctor. I am a 43-year-old male. Previously, I experienced some issues with my glans and foreskin; when I tried to retract the foreskin to clean the glans, it would sometimes cause minor tears, but this would heal after a while. This symptom occurred...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The oral mucosal ulcers associated with Behçet's disease, similar to thrush, often occur in multiple locations, and the ulcers in the genital area are also similar. Based on your symptoms, it seems unlikely to be Behçet's disease. Addi...[Read More] Understanding Behçet's Disease: Symptoms and Diagnosis in Adults
Understanding the Significance of Brown and Black Residue in Nasogastric Tube Aspirate
The color of the gastric aspirate from a nasogastric tube? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about the nasogastric tube aspirate that is brown in color and contains some black, viscous material. What could this indicate?
Dr. Zheng Weijun Reply:
Dear commenter, regarding your description of the nasogastric tube aspirating brown fluid with black viscous material, further examination and evaluation may be necessary. The contents aspirated from the nasogastric tube may be related to ingested foods, such as iron-rich foods l...[Read More] Understanding the Significance of Brown and Black Residue in Nasogastric Tube Aspirate
Understanding Kidney Function: The Impact of Heavy Lifting on Creatinine Levels
Renal dysfunction and proteinuria issues? In March, I underwent a medical examination due to my job (lifting heavy objects) and was found to have proteinuria (500 mg/dL), a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 50 mL/min, and a creatinine level of 1.6 mg/dL. I have been receiving t...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
It is recommended to consult your attending physician during your follow-up appointment. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function: The Impact of Heavy Lifting on Creatinine Levels
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Blood Glucose Meters
Risk of HIV Infection Hello, doctor. I recently visited a clinic and used a blood glucose meter to check my blood sugar. However, I'm feeling a bit anxious about whether the clinic properly replaced the lancet. If a patient with HIV had used it shortly before me, is there a ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello, the clinic regulations state that blood glucose lancets are also considered medical waste and must be used only once. The HIV virus is difficult to survive outside the human body, and the risk of infection is very low. For joint pain and chills, it is recommended to seek c...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Blood Glucose Meters
Can Sex Toys Transmit STDs? Understanding Safety and Hygiene Concerns
Can sex toys potentially lead to sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? Hello, I recently purchased a sexual wellness product online. The outer packaging appeared intact, but I later discovered that the inner packaging was damaged. I immediately washed the item and my hands with...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello, the HIV virus is difficult to survive outside the human body, and the risk of infection is very low. It is recommended to wash and then disinfect with alcohol before use, and to pay attention to any damage to the skin or mucous membranes to reduce the risk of infection fro...[Read More] Can Sex Toys Transmit STDs? Understanding Safety and Hygiene Concerns
Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Drinking or Rinsing with Oral Wounds?
Transmission routes of HIV Can HIV be transmitted through drinking water (beverages) or rinsing the mouth if there are wounds in the oral cavity?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello, the HIV virus primarily exists in blood and semen, and it can infect through broken skin. The likelihood of contracting HIV through drinking water or rinsing the mouth is very low.[Read More] Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Drinking or Rinsing with Oral Wounds?
Can Dried HIV Blood Reactivate When Exposed to Fresh Blood?
HIV infection Hello, doctor. I am the one who previously inquired about <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/198925">#198925</a>. I would like to ask again, if blood containing the HIV virus has dried, is there a possibility that the virus could become active...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello, no, unless there is further exposure to fresh blood, there is a chance of infection.[Read More] Can Dried HIV Blood Reactivate When Exposed to Fresh Blood?
Understanding Antibody Results in Dermatomyositis: Implications for Disease Progression
Antibody Issues in Dermatomyositis I was diagnosed with dermatomyositis on November 20, 2023, with a positive result for PL-7 (++) and negative results for all others. At that time, I only experienced muscle weakness, mechanic's hands, and joint rashes, with no other symptom...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The blood test results you received are qualitative tests, which do not provide actual numerical values, so they are not very precise and do not necessarily indicate changes in disease status or worsening of your condition. I suggest not to worr...[Read More] Understanding Antibody Results in Dermatomyositis: Implications for Disease Progression
Understanding Uric Acid Levels and Their Impact on Knee Pain
Regarding uric acid and knee problems? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask about my knee pain issue that hasn't improved. The orthopedic doctor suggested I test my uric acid levels, and the result was 5 (tested after dinner). The doctor said that 5 is considered slightly high...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Different hospitals or clinics may have varying normal ranges for test results due to the different testing machines or units of measurement they use. Generally, most hospitals will use testing machines that establish the normal range for uric ...[Read More] Understanding Uric Acid Levels and Their Impact on Knee Pain
Distinguishing Between Immune Issues and Menopause Symptoms at 50
How to distinguish between immune issues and menopausal symptoms? Hello, Doctor. I am 50 years and 6 months old. My menstrual cycle was regular until December of last year when it suddenly stopped. Before March of this year, I experienced insomnia, excessive sweating, frequent co...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: (1) What tests should be done to confirm if there is inflammation or adhesion in the spine? --> X-rays and blood tests are sufficient. If necessary, an MRI may also be arranged. Your physician may have started treatm...[Read More] Distinguishing Between Immune Issues and Menopause Symptoms at 50
Understanding Creatinine and Glomerular Filtration Rate Changes
Creatinine and Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) Hello, doctor. I have hepatitis B and have been following up with a gastroenterologist while taking antiviral medication. My serum creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) readings are as follows: - June 2016: 0.84 mg/dL, G...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
You can go to a nephrology department for a detailed examination and evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Creatinine and Glomerular Filtration Rate Changes
Do Laxatives Increase the Risk of Kidney and Urinary Stones?
Do laxatives increase the risk of developing kidney stones? Hello doctor, I have a severe constipation issue, so I have been using over-the-counter stool softeners for a long time. I am wondering if this could lead to an increased risk of developing kidney stones and urinary trac...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
It is possible to visit the outpatient clinic for a detailed evaluation.[Read More] Do Laxatives Increase the Risk of Kidney and Urinary Stones?
Can You Contract Gonorrhea Without Symptoms? Key Insights and FAQs
Can one contract gonorrhea without any apparent reason? 1. Can gonorrhea be contracted without any apparent reason? 2. What is the incubation period for gonorrhea? 3. What are the common symptoms of gonorrhea in women? 4. If I had unprotected sexual intercourse with my regular pa...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which is also known as gonococcus. It is a common issue among young populations, alongside genital warts (commonly referred to as "cauliflower") and syphilis. According to the W...[Read More] Can You Contract Gonorrhea Without Symptoms? Key Insights and FAQs
Can You Get Gonorrhea Without Symptoms? Key Facts and Insights
Can one contract gonorrhea without any apparent reason? 1. Can gonorrhea be contracted without any apparent reason? 2. What is the incubation period for gonorrhea? 3. What are the typical symptoms of gonorrhea in women? 4. If I had unprotected sexual intercourse with my ste...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which is also known as gonococcus. It is a common issue among young populations, along with genital warts (commonly referred to as "cauliflower") and syphilis. According to the ...[Read More] Can You Get Gonorrhea Without Symptoms? Key Facts and Insights
Accidentally Ingesting Louisa's Sandwich Wrapper: What to Do?
Accidental ingestion of Louisa's paper? If you accidentally swallowed a piece of paper while eating a sandwich, it is generally not harmful, as paper is mostly made of cellulose, which is not digestible but is non-toxic. However, you should monitor for any unusual symptoms s...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The piece of paper is very small, and it should not pose any issues. I believe there is no need for concern. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is here to support you.[Read More] Accidentally Ingesting Louisa's Sandwich Wrapper: What to Do?
Can Male Masturbation Devices Transmit Viruses? Expert Insights
Can male masturbation devices transmit viruses? Hello, doctor. Some time ago, I purchased a masturbation device online. Although the outer packaging was intact, I found that the inner packaging was damaged upon opening. I washed the entire device with soapy water two or three tim...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Your question pertains to infectious diseases; please consult an infectious disease specialist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is here to assist you.[Read More] Can Male Masturbation Devices Transmit Viruses? Expert Insights
Can You Get HIV by Touching Your Eyes After Contact with Infected Blood?
Mucous membrane (eye) If your hand unknowingly came into contact with HIV-infected bodily fluids and then you rubbed your eyes, is there a risk of contracting HIV?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. You are at risk of infection only if you work in a hospital with HIV patients or if your partner is HIV-positive. 2. In contrast, other infectious diseases can be transmitted through hand contact, so avoid rubbing your eyes with unwashed hands.[Read More] Can You Get HIV by Touching Your Eyes After Contact with Infected Blood?