Do You Need to Repeat Allergy Testing After Five Years?
Do allergens need to be tested repeatedly? Hello, Doctor Gao: I am 21 years old this year and have had an allergic constitution since childhood. When I was 16, I underwent allergen testing (M25-130-Z MAST ALLERGY) at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, which tested 36 allergens, all of...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) I still have some allergic symptoms, but I'm not sure what the allergens are. Is it necessary for me to undergo the 36-item allergen test again? Generally speaking, is there a high probability that something tha...[Read More] Do You Need to Repeat Allergy Testing After Five Years?
Understanding Kidney Size: Is Your Ultrasound Result Normal?
Ultrasound Kidney Size Hello, doctor. I have been monitoring my hematuria under a microscope. Recently, I underwent a complete abdominal ultrasound, including a bladder scan after drinking water. The report indicated that the size and echogenicity of both kidneys are normal, with...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello, based on your statement that "the examination report indicates that the size of both kidneys and the ultrasound echogenicity are normal," there is no need for excessive concern. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Size: Is Your Ultrasound Result Normal?
Understanding HIV Testing Timelines After Potential Exposure
HIV Testing Timeline Hello doctor, I had unprotected sexual intercourse in March of this year. In mid-April, I experienced a hoarse throat and a slight fever (37 degrees Celsius), but no other symptoms. At that time, I didn't think much of it due to work stress. Then in May,...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Great, regular follow-up has been established. The next follow-up will be from late June to early July. If the results are negative, you can feel reassured. Please continue to practice safe behaviors and avoid drug use.[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing Timelines After Potential Exposure
Understanding Fever and Immune Disorders: Insights on Symptoms and Blood Tests
Immune diseases and related issues of fever? Hello, Doctor Gao. I would like to ask you a few questions: Recently (I'm not sure for how long), almost every night when I feel more fatigued, my body temperature rises slightly (around 36.7°C to 37.0°C or 37.1°C). If I rest for ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Recently, I have been experiencing slight increases in body temperature (around 36.7°C to 37.0-37.1°C) almost every evening when I feel more fatigued. If I rest or wake up from sleep, my temperature returns to normal. ...[Read More] Understanding Fever and Immune Disorders: Insights on Symptoms and Blood Tests
Understanding Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Symptoms, Tests, and Treatment Options
Autoimmune Thyroiditis Hello, Doctor. I have been tracking thyroid issues for many years. In November of last year, my tests showed TSH 4.43, Free T4 0.84, and anti-TPO 9295, along with asymmetrical eyes, with the right eye protruding. I have been experiencing chronic dryness in ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
It is recommended that you visit a medical center to see an endocrinologist and check for TSH receptor antibodies, as this antibody is related to exophthalmos. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Symptoms, Tests, and Treatment Options
Assessing HIV Infection Risks After Contact with a Sex Worker
Concerned about the risk of HIV infection? On April 29, I had contact with a sex worker, and there was no unsafe sexual behavior throughout the encounter. 1. The other party performed manual stimulation on me (using lubricant), and after ejaculation, they wiped with tissue. Is th...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. It is not considered a high-risk behavior; simply consult and follow up with a nearby medical facility. 2. If you still have concerns, please adhere to safe sexual practices and avoid sharing drugs.[Read More] Assessing HIV Infection Risks After Contact with a Sex Worker
Managing High Creatinine Levels: Hydration and Dietary Choices
Elevated creatinine levels? A month ago, I visited a doctor due to gout, and after blood and urine tests, I was found to have a high uric acid level of 9.9 and a creatinine level of 1.2. The doctor advised me to drink more water. After increasing my water intake, I started drinki...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
In addition to excessive meat intake, consuming beverages high in fructose can also lead to elevated uric acid levels, so it is advisable to limit the intake of sugary drinks.[Read More] Managing High Creatinine Levels: Hydration and Dietary Choices
Should You Seek Medical Help for High Insulin Resistance?
Is it necessary to seek further medical attention for high insulin resistance? Hello Dr. Li, I recently had a health check-up and my results are as follows: Fasting Glucose: 93 mg/dL, HbA1c: 5.4% of Hb, Insulin: 23.4 mU/L, and Insulin Resistance (HOMA): 5.4. Both my blood glucose...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Currently, blood glucose levels are still normal. It is advisable to focus on lifestyle modifications and weight loss, while regularly monitoring blood glucose levels.[Read More] Should You Seek Medical Help for High Insulin Resistance?
Understanding Kidney Function Tests: When to Consult a Nephrologist
Please inquire about renal function data? Hello, Doctor Wu. I recently had a health check at a laboratory, and several kidney function-related parameters were reported within the normal range. However, my urine albumin showed an abnormal result. Here are the details: B.U.N. (Bloo...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
ACR = 0.015 does not require nephrology follow-up; annual health check-ups as originally scheduled are sufficient.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function Tests: When to Consult a Nephrologist
Concerns About IV Flushes in Pediatric Patients: Risks and Precautions
Intravenous injection issues When a child is hospitalized and receiving intravenous fluids, if the IV line becomes obstructed, a nurse may flush it with saline to restore patency. Is there a risk of blood clots being pushed into the bloodstream? What precautions should be taken?
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: In this situation, I am unable to respond as I was not present at the time and do not know the circumstances. Thank you for your message![Read More] Concerns About IV Flushes in Pediatric Patients: Risks and Precautions
Understanding Gonorrhea and Chlamydia: When to See a Urologist or Infectious Disease Specialist
For issues related to gonorrhea, chlamydia, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), you should consult a urologist or an infectious disease specialist? Hello, Doctor! I apologize for bothering you, but I would like to ask you some questions regarding gonorrhea and chlamydia. ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Both types can have asymptomatic infections, and even if there are no symptoms, there is still a possibility of being infectious. 2. Asymptomatic infections are rare in males, but more common in females. If there are no symptoms, unless your intimate partner has been diagnosed...[Read More] Understanding Gonorrhea and Chlamydia: When to See a Urologist or Infectious Disease Specialist
Concerns About Eating Food Touched by Cockroaches: What You Need to Know
Eating food that has been crawled on by cockroaches? This morning, I saw a piece of cake on the table and, without thinking much, I assumed it was breakfast and ate it. However, my brother told me that it had been on the table since yesterday, and the important part is that he sa...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Cockroaches carry bacteria, and the most severe consequence can be food poisoning leading to diarrhea; however, there should not be any issues with parasites. I recommend that you drink plenty of water, as it can help dilute potential bacterial...[Read More] Concerns About Eating Food Touched by Cockroaches: What You Need to Know
Understanding Dry Mouth: Salivary Gland Function and Reactive Arthritis
Sjögren's syndrome and sialography? Hello Doctor, (I forgot to attach the data and there were some missing words, so I am asking again.) My immunologist diagnosed me with possible reactive arthritis. Recently, after hearing that I have dry eye syndrome, the doctor arranged f...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. My doctor told me that my salivary gland function is impaired, likely due to arthritis-related xerostomia, which is different from typical dry mouth. Can reactive arthritis also lead to symptoms of dry mouth? Is it po...[Read More] Understanding Dry Mouth: Salivary Gland Function and Reactive Arthritis
Food Contamination Risks: Understanding Infection from Blood on Toast
Foodborne infection issues Hello, doctor! One day while I was having breakfast, I noticed some blood spots on my toast, approximately 0.3 centimeters in size, around two or three spots. I discovered the blood after I had already eaten part of the toast, and I'm uncertain whe...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. If you are a healthy individual, there is certainly no issue; however, if you share the same piece of bread with someone else, you need to inquire about their health status. 2. The situation is as described in point 1.[Read More] Food Contamination Risks: Understanding Infection from Blood on Toast
Understanding PrEP Use: What to Do After Unprotected Sex?
Questions related to the use of PrEP? Hello doctor, I am currently taking PrEP and I know that it should be taken 2 hours before exposure. However, I only waited 1.5 hours before having unprotected sex. Should I continue taking the 2+1+1 regimen or switch to PEP?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
You can refer to the information: It can be taken again once, https://preprx.ucsf.edu/sites/g/files/tkssra2846/f/wysiwyg/PrEP-OI%202-1-1%20handout%20w%20Strut%20table_CHT.pdf[Read More] Understanding PrEP Use: What to Do After Unprotected Sex?
Understanding HIV Test Results: What Do Changes in Numbers Mean?
HIV testing issues Hello Doctor: In May 2022, I had high-risk sexual behavior, but I did not engage in any sexual activity for the following seven months. In December 2022, feeling anxious, I went for an HIV blood test, and the result was 0.19. I had sexual activity again in Janu...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. A general positive result is greater than 1, so values less than 1 do not need to be overly concerned. 2. If six months have passed, there is no need for further follow-up; however, if there are still risky behaviors, recalculation is necessary.[Read More] Understanding HIV Test Results: What Do Changes in Numbers Mean?
Understanding Medication Concerns for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Celebrex vs. Salazopyrine
Medication-related issues in ankylosing spondylitis? Hello, doctor. I am #191897. 1. During my previous visit, I asked the doctor about the medication Celebrex (celecoxib). The doctor believed that my condition was not severe enough to require the use of Salazopyrin (sulfasalaz...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. When I previously consulted with my doctor regarding the use of Salazopyrin (Salar), the doctor believed that my condition was not severe enough to warrant its use, so I was prescribed Celebrex instead. However, I am a...[Read More] Understanding Medication Concerns for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Celebrex vs. Salazopyrine
Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Increase Risk of Low White or Red Blood Cells?
Does ankylosing spondylitis lead to a decrease in white blood cells or red blood cells? Hello, Doctor Gao. I am a 20-year-old patient with ankylosing spondylitis, diagnosed 3.5 years ago and currently undergoing stable treatment. I would like to ask you, excluding the effects of ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Ankylosing spondylitis does not cause leukopenia; however, untreated long-term ankylosing spondylitis may lead to mild anemia due to chronic inflammation suppressing bone marrow hematopoiesis. Additionally, if severe pain or poor control necess...[Read More] Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Increase Risk of Low White or Red Blood Cells?
Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need Medical Attention?
Eating undercooked pork in barbecue? When eating barbecue, I thought it was beef and consumed it medium-rare, only to later discover it was pork! Doctor, I have two questions: 1. Is it necessary to see an infectious disease specialist for this situation? 2. Is the prevalence of t...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the information from the Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan, a member of the indigenous community in Hualien County, Peng Zhao-xi, frequently consumed raw wild boar meat. Over a month ago, he developed a hard lump on the inner side of his left thigh. After exam...[Read More] Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need Medical Attention?
Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need to See an Infectious Disease Specialist?
Eating undercooked pork in barbecue? When eating barbecue, I thought it was beef and consumed it medium-rare, only to later find out it was pork! Doctor, I have two questions: 1. Is it necessary to see an infectious disease specialist for this situation? 2. Is the prevalence of t...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the information from the Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan, a member of the indigenous community in Hualien County, Peng Zhaoxi, frequently consumed raw wild boar meat. Over a month ago, he developed a hard lump on the inner side of his left thigh. After exami...[Read More] Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need to See an Infectious Disease Specialist?