Understanding Joint Pain and Itching: Possible Causes and Solutions
Generalized joint pain and bone itching? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing joint pain and itching for about ten years. The itching sensation in my bones makes me feel restless, constantly wanting to move or twist them. The joint pain can come on suddenly and last for quite a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here is my response: Question: I would like to ask if this situation is similar to rheumatoid arthritis? Is it possible for my values to decrease? Is the frequent pain in my joints and itching in my bones due to an issue with my immune system...[Read More] Understanding Joint Pain and Itching: Possible Causes and Solutions
How to Properly Take Baraclude and Trexan for Arthritis Management
The administration methods for Baraclude and Trexan? Arthritis, Baraclude, and Trexan administration method, with folic acid supplementation, follow-up visit, received 7 tablets of Baraclude and 6 tablets of Trexan. Baraclude is taken every other day, and Trexan is taken three ti...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I have a few suggestions: 1. I recommend discussing with your physician to confirm the administration method for Trexan. I would suggest taking Trexan on an empty stomach. 2. Baraclude can be taken two hours after a meal, so while Baraclude may ...[Read More] How to Properly Take Baraclude and Trexan for Arthritis Management
Understanding Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Recovery Challenges
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy recovery issues? Hello Doctor, my father (59 years old) has been experiencing numbness in his legs since October of last year. By January, his condition deteriorated rapidly from being able to walk to having difficulty walking within just a few week...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
1. Seeking a second opinion, if necessary, is not a waste of time. 2. Some conditions can be cured, while others can only be managed. However, not treating them is not an option, and improvement may take time. 3. If leg swelling cannot be adequately controlled through diet al...[Read More] Understanding Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Recovery Challenges
Understanding Disease Risks from Oral Contact: A Medical Perspective
Will I contract any diseases? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a question: Over three years ago, I engaged in sexual activities with a sex worker and kissed a girl. Because I was inexperienced, my teeth accidentally poked her mouth (I am not sure if it was her lips or the insid...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, there is always a certain risk of disease transmission with exposure to blood and bodily fluids. However, unless there is significant bleeding, the risk of transmission for HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and syphilis is quite low. On the other hand, viruses such as cytomeg...[Read More] Understanding Disease Risks from Oral Contact: A Medical Perspective
Late Night Study Habits: Impact on Liver Health and Sleep
Sleeping at three in the morning? Hello Doctor, I am a college student. I often stay up late writing assignments and studying, and I have a habit of using my phone before bed, which means I usually go to sleep around 3 AM. This has been my routine for almost two years. Recently, ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. There is no definitive conclusion regarding the correlation between late sleeping and liver enzyme levels; however, late sleeping can indeed affect immune function and blood glucose levels, which are serious issues. There is also no consensus i...[Read More] Late Night Study Habits: Impact on Liver Health and Sleep
Preventing Parasite and Infection Risks from Snails: Expert Advice
Parasitic and Infectious Issues Hello, Doctor. 1. If I pick up a snail (likely an African giant snail) from a pile of grass by hand and then wash my hands with soap, will that prevent parasites and bacteria? What is the proper way to handle this situation? 2. If I touch a snai...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Yes. Parasites and bacteria primarily invade through the gastrointestinal tract. If you wash your hands promptly after touching something, you can effectively remove parasites and bacteria, which generally minimizes the risk of infection. 2. If handwashing is thorough, there...[Read More] Preventing Parasite and Infection Risks from Snails: Expert Advice
Impact of Late Sleep on Liver Function: A College Student's Concern
I go to sleep at 3 AM every day? Hello Doctor, I am a university student and I have been going to bed around 3 AM for the past two years. On one hand, it is due to academic pressure, and on the other hand, I have developed a habit of using my phone before sleep. I usually wake up...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If you suspect liver dysfunction, you can consult a hepatobiliary and gastroenterology specialist. Try to go to bed before 11:00 PM. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Impact of Late Sleep on Liver Function: A College Student's Concern
Post-Meal Blood Sugar Concerns: Understanding Abnormal Readings
Postprandial hyperglycemia Hello Dr. Li: During my previous visit to the hospital, I found that my blood sugar levels were somewhat abnormal, with a fasting blood sugar of 102 and a hemoglobin A1c of 5.1. However, I recently noticed some unusual changes in my postprandial blood s...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
It is recommended that you visit the Metabolism Clinic for an oral glucose tolerance test. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Post-Meal Blood Sugar Concerns: Understanding Abnormal Readings
Understanding Swollen Left Foot: Causes and Treatment Options
Swelling of the left foot? Arthritis, swelling and pain in the palms, swelling in the soles of the feet. I was prescribed Celebrex (celecoxib) 200 mg, taking one capsule in the morning and one in the evening, but it did not alleviate the swelling and pain in my palms. After a mon...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Please evaluate in the outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Swollen Left Foot: Causes and Treatment Options
Can Kidney Disease Patients Drink Unsweetened Lemon Water?
Diet for Kidney Disease I would like to ask the doctor if patients with kidney disease can drink unsweetened lemon water? (Currently in a mildly low sodium and low potassium state) Thank you.
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Each individual's health condition is different. For dietary recommendations related to kidney disease, it is advisable to consult a nutritionist. Thank you.[Read More] Can Kidney Disease Patients Drink Unsweetened Lemon Water?
Understanding STD Risks After Intimate Encounters: What You Need to Know
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) transmission Hello Doctor: Recently, I engaged in sexual activities with a sex worker, where we bathed and had intimate contact. We both shaved beforehand, but I am unsure if there were any cuts. During the encounter, the following occurred:...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan (https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Disease/Index), there are three main transmission routes for HIV: A. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with a...[Read More] Understanding STD Risks After Intimate Encounters: What You Need to Know
Can HPV Vaccine Prevent Transmission and Progression After Infection?
HPV vaccine questions Hello, doctor. I would like to ask, if someone is infected with HPV but immediately receives the HPV vaccine, although it won't cure the infection, can it prevent the progression of the disease or reduce the transmissibility? (I do not want to risk infe...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Yes, current research shows that individuals infected with HPV can still benefit from vaccination, as it can reduce the risk of developing related diseases such as genital warts, anal cancer, and other HPV-related conditions. Therefore, vaccination is still recommended![Read More] Can HPV Vaccine Prevent Transmission and Progression After Infection?
When Is Blood Dialysis Necessary? Understanding Kidney Function and Treatment
At what stage of a patient's condition is dialysis necessary? Hello Doctor, my grandmother was recently admitted to the emergency room due to pulmonary edema. After evaluation, the doctor determined that she needed urgent hemodialysis for rescue and then to monitor her recov...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Regarding the extent of renal failure that necessitates dialysis treatment, it is primarily when kidney function declines to stage 5 chronic kidney disease, accompanied by symptoms of uremia or fluid overload. Of course, the decision also depends on the clinical judgment o...[Read More] When Is Blood Dialysis Necessary? Understanding Kidney Function and Treatment
Alternatives to Carvedilol for Managing Hypertension and Gum Issues
Antihypertensive medication If you are currently taking carvedilol (a beta-blocker) for hypertension but are experiencing issues with gum swelling and abscesses, there are alternative classes of antihypertensive medications that you could consider. For example, you might discuss ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Regarding your question about antihypertensive medications, if there are adverse drug reactions that require adjustments, we will need your past medical history, medication history, and responses to the medications. Additionally, we will need to consider your physical exam...[Read More] Alternatives to Carvedilol for Managing Hypertension and Gum Issues
Timing for STD Testing: Understanding Risks and When to Get Checked
Timing for STI Screening Hello, Doctor: 1. I had sexual intercourse with an online acquaintance on May 27. The partner has multiple sexual partners. During our encounter, we took a bath together, and during oral sex, the male performed oral sex on the female without a condom, w...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, 1. Individual intimate contacts have been studied regarding their transmission risks, but it is quite difficult to assess the overall risk of sexual intercourse. Essentially, HIV transmission requires contact between mucous membranes or broken skin and infected bodily fl...[Read More] Timing for STD Testing: Understanding Risks and When to Get Checked
Concerns About Cockroach Contact: Risks and Precautions for Foot Wounds
A person with a wound on their athlete's foot stepped barefoot on a cockroach? 1. Given your situation, the likelihood of contracting a cockroach-related disease from stepping on a cockroach is low, especially since the cockroach did not come into direct contact with your ex...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: 1. The chances are very low, as it is merely encountering a cockroach and not being bitten by one. 2. Typically, the risk is higher when consuming food or water contaminated by cockroaches; similar cases are rarely encountered in Taiwan. 3. Different types of parasites or ...[Read More] Concerns About Cockroach Contact: Risks and Precautions for Foot Wounds
Accidental Ingestion of Borax: Immediate Risks and Medical Response
Accidental ingestion issues? If someone accidentally ingests 20 grams of borax, will they die immediately? If taken to the hospital, can they be saved?
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello, if borax is ingested, please seek medical attention immediately. Thank you.[Read More] Accidental Ingestion of Borax: Immediate Risks and Medical Response
Can Slug Mucus Spread Parasites in Your Home? Health Risks Explained
Slugs are crawling all over the house? Hello, doctor. I have seen reports that the mucus secreted by mollusks such as snails, slugs, and other soft-bodied animals can contain the parasitic worm Angiostrongylus cantonensis. A few days ago, a large slug about 10 centimeters long cr...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
The pathogen of Guangdong blood fluke infection is the Guangdong blood fluke. In 1933, Mr. Chen Xintao first discovered this parasite in the lungs (pulmonary arteries) of rats while investigating parasites in the black rat and brown rat in Guangdong Province, China. In 1937, a Ja...[Read More] Can Slug Mucus Spread Parasites in Your Home? Health Risks Explained
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks and Skin Care for Psoriasis
HIV transmission issues Dear Dr. Liao, I do not engage in any high-risk behaviors, but I have psoriasis that causes redness and peeling of the skin on my limbs (sometimes I scratch until I break the skin or cause cracks due to itching). Does this condition increase my risk of in...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, the transmission routes of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are as follows: 1. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluid...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks and Skin Care for Psoriasis
Head Injury After Falling from Height: When to Seek Medical Attention
Fell from a height and struck the head? This morning, while engaging in high-altitude sports, I lost my grip due to fatigue and fell from a height. Although there was a soft mat below, I hit the lower right side of my head near my ear upon landing. There were no external injuries...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Head trauma should be classified under neurosurgery. If there are symptoms or concerns, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Thank you.[Read More] Head Injury After Falling from Height: When to Seek Medical Attention