Understanding HPV Recurrence: Concerns and Vaccination Benefits
Regarding the recurrence rate of HPV? Hello, Doctor. About six years ago, I had genital warts in my anal area due to my reckless youth. At that time, I underwent treatment with electrocautery and topical medications. I experienced severe itching at night, but over the years, alth...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First of all, it is not easy to completely cure genital warts; safe sexual practices and contact isolation are necessary. 2. The optimal timing for administering the HPV vaccine is before the onset of sexual activity; however, young men and women who are currently sexually act...[Read More] Understanding HPV Recurrence: Concerns and Vaccination Benefits
Concerns About Pork Tapeworm Infection After Handling Fresh Pork
Pork tapeworm parasite This morning, I went to the market to buy pork (ground pork). The vendor said the pork was freshly slaughtered. After I brought it home and handled it, I forgot to wash my hands, but I did use alcohol to disinfect them before eating. Is there a risk of para...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
No; you can refer to the CDC's information: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/ListContent/AHwuigegBBBmuDcbWkzoGQ?uaid=T0MRJj8KVycdb4ZS6EGu_g. In Hualien County, an indigenous man named Peng Zhaoxi frequently consumed raw wild boar meat. Over a month ago, he developed a hard lu...[Read More] Concerns About Pork Tapeworm Infection After Handling Fresh Pork
Concerns About Pork Tapeworm Infection After Handling Fresh Pork
Pork tapeworm parasite This morning, I went to the market to buy pork (ground pork). The vendor said the pork was freshly slaughtered. After I brought it home and handled it, I forgot to wash my hands, but I did use alcohol to disinfect them before eating. Is there a risk of para...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
No; you can refer to the information from the Centers for Disease Control: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/ListContent/AHwuigegBBBmuDcbWkzoGQ?uaid=T0MRJj8KVycdb4ZS6EGu_g. In Hualien County, an indigenous man named Peng Zhaoxi frequently consumed raw wild boar meat. Over a month a...[Read More] Concerns About Pork Tapeworm Infection After Handling Fresh Pork
Feeling Pressure Near the Stomach: Could It Be a Spine Injury or Gastro Issue?
Recently, I have been feeling a pressure near my chest, close to my stomach? For the past few days, when I lie flat on my bed, I feel a sensation as if something is pressing against my chest near my stomach. I'm not sure if this is related to my spinal surgery after I fell f...
Dr. Li Yanquan Reply:
Please first consult the surgeon who performed your operation, and then see a gastroenterologist. Thank you.[Read More] Feeling Pressure Near the Stomach: Could It Be a Spine Injury or Gastro Issue?
Is Two-Medication Therapy Effective for Helicobacter Pylori?
Helicobacter pylori treatment Dear Doctor, I found treatments online that are either triple or quadruple therapy, but my doctor only prescribed two medications: LFLOCIN F.C. TABLETS 500MG once daily, one tablet, and AMOXICILLIN CAPSULES 500MG twice daily, two capsules each for tw...
Dr. Li Yanquan Reply:
Please consult the original attending physician regarding this issue, or you may seek a second opinion from another gastroenterologist. Thank you.[Read More] Is Two-Medication Therapy Effective for Helicobacter Pylori?
Concerns Over Mysterious Particles on Cooked Squid Rings: Health Risks?
The cooked squid rings are covered with unidentified granular substances? Recently, I dined at a Vietnamese restaurant and noticed that the squid rings in the rice noodles had a dense layer of greenish-yellow granular substances. When I inquired with the staff, they claimed it wa...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! I understand your concerns, but to be honest, based on your description, I cannot confirm what exactly it is, making it difficult to assess its potential impact on the human body. Generally, parasites or their eggs are very sensitive to high temperatures; a slight exposure...[Read More] Concerns Over Mysterious Particles on Cooked Squid Rings: Health Risks?
Understanding Cellulitis: Long-Term Recovery and Ongoing Symptoms
Cellulitis I was admitted to the emergency room on February 28 due to swelling in my left hand. I was diagnosed with cellulitis despite having no external injuries. After 11 days of antibiotic treatment, the swelling finally decreased, and my CRP levels returned to normal. Howeve...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Severe cellulitis may lead to localized tissue thickening or persistent swelling for some time after infection control, and it may take longer to gradually recover. Another possibility is that if the infection has invaded deeper tissues such as joints or bones, the recovery time ...[Read More] Understanding Cellulitis: Long-Term Recovery and Ongoing Symptoms
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Is It Menstrual or Gastrointestinal?
Abdominal distension, abdominal pain? Recently, I visited a clinic due to dull pain in my lower abdomen. The doctor diagnosed it as gastroenteritis, but the next day my menstrual period started, so I suspect that the discomfort might have been related to my menstruation. However,...
Dr. Li Yanquan Reply:
This issue involves both obstetrics and gynecology as well as gastroenterology, so it is recommended to consult both specialists. Dr. Li Yanqian.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Is It Menstrual or Gastrointestinal?
Persistent Dry Cough After COVID-19: Understanding Symptoms and Management
A slight cough (non-productive) in the throat persisting for six months after a confirmed COVID-19 infection? Hello Doctor: I am 20 years old and have ankylosing spondylitis. I tested positive for COVID-19 in early October 2022, experiencing mild symptoms (low fever for 1-2 days,...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: After being diagnosed with COVID-19, there may be upper respiratory symptoms. If the symptoms persist, you may visit a hospital for medical care to alleviate the symptoms. Thank you for your message![Read More] Persistent Dry Cough After COVID-19: Understanding Symptoms and Management
Concerns About Parasite Infection After Using Contaminated Water
Parasitic issues? Dear Doctor, I stayed overnight in a rural area where the washing facilities only had a faucet without a showerhead and no hot water supply. It had not been used for about six months, and when I turned it on, I noticed some filamentous floating substances resemb...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Parasitic infections are primarily transmitted through contact routes, such as oral ingestion (via drinking water or food) or external parasites (like scabies). Therefore, when traveling to the outdoors or Southeast Asia, remember to wear long sleeves and avoid consuming untre...[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection After Using Contaminated Water
Dog Bite Concerns: Do You Need Rabies and Tetanus Vaccines?
Bitten by my own dog? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask four questions: 1. I was bitten on my finger by my dog around midnight on April 13. The bite site is shown in the photos linked here. There was no bleeding, and I'm not sure if there are other bite marks. My dog is tw...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to go to the hospital for wound treatment and evaluation if bitten! Online consultations cannot replace in-person examinations and assessments. 1. No, if bitten by a domestic dog, rabies vaccination is not necessary. 2. Any deep wound carries a risk; i...[Read More] Dog Bite Concerns: Do You Need Rabies and Tetanus Vaccines?
Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Test Results: Key Insights
Urticaria and Thyroid Testing After catching a cold at the end of February (with symptoms of sore throat and general weakness), I began to develop hives all over my body, particularly around my eyes and neck. I visited a clinic where I was prescribed steroids and received an inje...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is there a connection between urticaria and slightly elevated TSH levels? Do I need to see a rheumatologist for an examination? --> In cases of long-term urticaria, we sometimes check thyroid function. Your TSH is ...[Read More] Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Test Results: Key Insights
Long COVID Management Tips for Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Considerations for Long COVID Treatment in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello Doctor: My son, who is 20 years old, has a history of ankylosing spondylitis. He tested positive for COVID-19 in early October 2022, experiencing mild symptoms (low-grade fever for 1-2 days, mus...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Is the slower recovery from long COVID possibly related to ankylosing spondylitis? How long does it take to fully recover? --> Long COVID can be monitored for three months; after three months, most symptoms should g...[Read More] Long COVID Management Tips for Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Which Specialist Should I See for Right Upper Abdomen Discomfort?
Not sure which specialty to see? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing discomfort in my upper right abdomen (not a constant pain, nor a sharp pain) for almost two years. It feels like there is something inside, and occasionally pressing on the right upper rib causes pain. I con...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello, 1. The CA125 level is 47; it is recommended to follow up with a gynecologist. 2. For upper abdominal pain and rib pain, if liver, gallbladder, and gastrointestinal diseases have been ruled out, it is advisable to consult a cardiologist for further evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Which Specialist Should I See for Right Upper Abdomen Discomfort?
Managing Weight Gain with Hypothyroidism: Tips and Advice
Hypothyroidism and weight gain? Hello Doctor, I just learned that I have hypothyroidism and have gained 25 kilograms over the past year. I am currently on medication, and my thyroid levels are normal, but I am still unable to lose weight. I have significant gray hair, often feel ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, please consult with the physician who is currently monitoring your condition and prescribing medication. I'm not sure if the symptoms you mentioned are directly related to hypothyroidism; additional endocrine and internal medicine blood tests may be necessary.[Read More] Managing Weight Gain with Hypothyroidism: Tips and Advice
Interpreting Blood Test Results for Acute Myeloid Leukemia Risk
Blood test report Based on the provided data, it is challenging to definitively diagnose acute myeloid leukemia (AML) without further clinical context and additional tests. However, several key laboratory findings may raise suspicion for hematological disorders, including AML: 1...
Dr. Li Yanquan Reply:
Please consult a specialized hematologist. Diagnosing a condition cannot rely solely on blood tests, as it can be very dangerous. Thank you.[Read More] Interpreting Blood Test Results for Acute Myeloid Leukemia Risk
Frequent Dizziness and Unsteadiness: When to Seek Medical Attention
Dizziness and unsteadiness? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask about my condition. Over the past few weeks, I have been experiencing frequent dizziness. It started with pain in the back of my head, followed by dizziness and instability when standing. I often feel like I'm go...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If you frequently experience dizziness, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause. Thank you for your message![Read More] Frequent Dizziness and Unsteadiness: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding 40X Negative ANA Results: Implications and Follow-Up Questions
The ANA report is 40X (negative)? 1. The test result of 40X (neg) indicates that there are still some antibodies present, but it is not a significant level. 2. Since there is still concern about potential future infection, it is advisable to wait approximately 3 to 6 months bef...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. The test report shows a value of 40X (neg). Does this result indicate that there are still some antibodies present or none at all? --> The antibody level is very low, and for a rheumatologist, this still indicates...[Read More] Understanding 40X Negative ANA Results: Implications and Follow-Up Questions
Assessing Infection Risks from Handling Contaminated Clothing
Is there a risk of infection? On April 6, I helped a patient wash underwear stained with menstrual blood. I had several small wounds on my hands (including cuts from finger flesh and mosquito bites). The patient has a history of genital warts, so I am uncertain about their health...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. In principle, healthcare personnel should not have direct contact with patients' blood, body fluids, or wounds without gloves; they should wear gloves while performing procedures. 2. If there is accidental contact with an infectious wound, remember to first wash it thor...[Read More] Assessing Infection Risks from Handling Contaminated Clothing
Can You Get Infected from a Used Needle During Blood Draw?
Is there an infection? Hello doctor, the other day at the hospital, after a person had their blood drawn and left, I sat down next. I noticed that the needle cap used by the nurse was already opened and exposed to the air before she drew my blood. I suspect that the nurse did not...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 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 of infectio...[Read More] Can You Get Infected from a Used Needle During Blood Draw?