Understanding A-Type Influenza: Symptoms and Potential Complications
Influenza Issues Hello, doctor. I was recently diagnosed with influenza type A and have been taking my medication as prescribed. However, I constantly feel a sense of heaviness and pressure in my head (which is somewhat relieved when lying down or sitting), and sometimes I experi...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the symptoms you described are indeed consistent with the fatigue that can accompany influenza. It is recommended to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated; typically, you will gradually recover. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding A-Type Influenza: Symptoms and Potential Complications
Can Wearing a Used Bracelet Increase HIV Infection Risk?
Concerns about the risk of HIV infection? Hello, doctor! A few years ago, I purchased a clasp-style bracelet from a small online seller (which seems to have gone out of business since). After I put it on, I accidentally pinched the skin on my arm, which was very painful and cause...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is unlikely to indicate an HIV infection. However, if you are feeling very uncomfortable, you may consider getting tested for HIV. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can Wearing a Used Bracelet Increase HIV Infection Risk?
Assessing Bone Marrow Suppression Risks from Salazopyrin Use
Have I already experienced bone marrow suppression as a side effect from taking Salazopyrin? Hello Dr. Tseng, I would like to ask you another question. I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and my main symptom is pain in the buttocks. Since my blood test on March 2 of last ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The user's PLT and WBC are within normal ranges, but Hb is slightly low. Drug-induced bone marrow suppression typically affects WBC and PLT, so it is okay to continue the medication. Follow up with the attending physician for further discussion. There is no need to take iron...[Read More] Assessing Bone Marrow Suppression Risks from Salazopyrin Use
Understanding CA72-4 Levels: Are They Linked to GERD and Cancer Risk?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Last year, my CA 72-4 index was 13, and this year it is 24. I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and I'm unsure if this elevated index could be related to my condition. Based on this index, is there a high probability of cancer...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
I'm not an expert in gastroesophageal reflux disease, so I'm afraid I might not provide the correct information. I recommend consulting a gastroenterologist. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding CA72-4 Levels: Are They Linked to GERD and Cancer Risk?
Can Probiotics and Omega-3 Foods Help Manage Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Is taking probiotics or regularly consuming foods rich in omega-3 beneficial for ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Dr. Tseng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and I have been experiencing symptoms for three and a half years. Currently, I take two tablets of Celebrex and on...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Online users suggest that omega-3 can combat inflammation, but its effectiveness in improving the inflammatory condition of ankylosing spondylitis is limited; it should only be used as a supplement and cannot be used for treatment. Probiotics or omega-3 are not expected to have a...[Read More] Can Probiotics and Omega-3 Foods Help Manage Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Does Celecoxib Effectively Lower CRP Levels in Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Is the effect of Xeljanz on reducing CRP inflammatory markers significant? Hello Dr. Zeng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. Could you please tell me if the medication Celebrex has a significant effect on reducing CRP inflammation levels in patients with ankylosing spon...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The medication Hylorac belongs to the class of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and has a certain effectiveness in reducing inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis. However, individual responses may vary; some may experience significant benefits, while o...[Read More] Does Celecoxib Effectively Lower CRP Levels in Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding the Efficacy of Anti-Inflammatory Pain Medications
The efficacy of anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications? Hello Dr. Tseng, I have ankylosing spondylitis, primarily experiencing pain in my buttocks (sacroiliac joint) and lower back (at the level of my navel). I have been taking Voltaren and Celebrex for three months each. Wh...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Each medication has its own effects and can cause different reactions in individuals. It is not recommended to use different anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications simultaneously, as this may increase the risk of side effects. It is advisable to adjust other pain relievers t...[Read More] Understanding the Efficacy of Anti-Inflammatory Pain Medications
Managing Medication for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Key Considerations
Medication issues in ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Dr. Tseng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. For the past six months, I have been taking two Salazopyrin and one Voltaren daily for treatment. My CRP levels have been between 0.2 and 0.6, and my pain occurs approximatel...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Whether or not to take medication depends on the condition of the disease, including an overall assessment of pain, inflammation, and spinal involvement. This determination must be made by your treating physician who understands your situation; it cannot be decided solely based o...[Read More] Managing Medication for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Key Considerations
Understanding Undiagnosed Systemic Involvement in Connective Tissue Disorders
Regarding systemic invasion of connective tissue and (invasion, involvement), not explicitly stated? Recently, I frequently experienced mouth ulcers and visited the rheumatology department. Blood tests showed normal immune indices, but the doctor prescribed colchicine and iron su...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Colchicine has anti-inflammatory properties and is commonly used for the prevention and acute treatment of gout. Clinically, it can be used for the preventive treatment of chronic idiopathic oral ulcers. The physician's diagnosis refers to the meaning of idiopathic diseases.[Read More] Understanding Undiagnosed Systemic Involvement in Connective Tissue Disorders
Is My New Lower Back Pain a Side Effect of Salazopyrin or AS Symptoms?
My new lower back pain symptoms could be indicative of ankylosing spondylitis, or could they be a side effect of taking Celebrex? Hello Dr. Zeng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis and have been experiencing symptoms for 2 years. In the first year, I mainly took anti-infl...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Is it true that the side effects of Seroquel need to be differentiated? If back pain is a side effect, it will not cause permanent harm to the body. It is recommended to follow up with the attending physician for evaluation.[Read More] Is My New Lower Back Pain a Side Effect of Salazopyrin or AS Symptoms?
How Effective is Certolizumab in Reducing CRP Levels?
Is the effect of Xarelto on lowering CRP significant? Hello Dr. Tseng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I am currently being treated with Celebrex and Humira (I have also taken Enbrel in the past). I would like to ask the doctor some direct questions: 1) Generally spea...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Both have anti-inflammatory effects, but the response varies among patients with ankylosing spondylitis, and there are no studies reporting which one reduces CRP more significantly. The response in CRP reduction after administration varies from person to person.[Read More] How Effective is Certolizumab in Reducing CRP Levels?
Understanding Inflammation Index and Its Impact on Adhesion in Ankylosing Spondylitis
The relationship between inflammatory indices and adhesions? Hello, Doctor. I have ankylosing spondylitis. Before treatment, I experienced pain in my buttocks and lower back. For the past year, I have been taking two tablets of Celebrex daily, and my CRP levels have been maintain...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The likelihood of spinal adhesions is related to various factors, including inflammation levels, smoking, previous adhesions, obesity, and more. Of course, if there is no pain and inflammation levels are normal, the chances of developing adhesions in the lower back are reduced. E...[Read More] Understanding Inflammation Index and Its Impact on Adhesion in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Shared Soap in Hotels
Risk of HIV Infection Hello Doctor: I would like to ask you about an anxiety issue I have. Many years ago, while traveling with classmates and staying at a hotel, I forgot to bring my bathing supplies. I mistakenly thought there was soap on the soap dish, so I applied it to my bo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned does not pose a risk of HIV infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Shared Soap in Hotels
Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Snail in Vegetables
Parasitic issues? Hello Doctor: I have a habit of steaming vegetables. However, during dinner the day before yesterday, I accidentally bit into a small snail (and even broke its shell) in the vegetables. Although I immediately spat it out, I am still worried about the risk of par...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It is impossible to predict whether all of them are cooked. 2. Unless one is traveling to areas with a high prevalence of parasites, such as Africa, or during outbreaks of infections, preventive medication is rarely necessary. 3. If there are gastrointestinal discomfort...[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Snail in Vegetables
Can Kids Get Infections from Using a Contaminated Toothbrush?
Is there a risk of infection? Hello Doctor: My child accidentally bit their mouth and created a sore while eating. After brushing their teeth, they place the toothbrush directly in the sink for us to collect. Will there be any infection issues if my child uses the toothbrush agai...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, as long as the toothbrush is cleaned and there are no major wounds in the oral cavity, it should not lead to an infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can Kids Get Infections from Using a Contaminated Toothbrush?
Understanding Urine Odor: What Pineapple and Health Indicators Mean
The odor of urine? Hello, doctor. After eating pineapple yesterday, I went to the bathroom and noticed a somewhat pungent smell, somewhat resembling pineapple. I'm quite worried because I had a weak positive for protein in my urine during a high school health check seven yea...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, many foods, including pineapple, can indeed affect the odor of urine. Therefore, the situation you mentioned is a normal physiological phenomenon. As long as there is no noticeable foam or blood in your urine, there is no cause for concern. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Urine Odor: What Pineapple and Health Indicators Mean
Understanding HIV Infection Risks and Testing: Your Questions Answered
Risk of HIV Infection Hello Doctor, I apologize for having two questions to ask you: 1. I once shared a bowl of ice with a friend of a friend (someone I don't know at all). If both parties had open sores in their mouths, is there a risk of HIV infection? Is there a need for ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you described does not pose a risk for HIV infection, so there is no need for HIV testing. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding HIV Infection Risks and Testing: Your Questions Answered
Understanding Occipital Pain: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Pain in the back of the head? In the past two to three weeks, I've been feeling that my head is different from usual. Normally, it feels light, but recently it feels like there's something in my head, a sort of foggy sensation. When I'm focused on a task, it's...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the likelihood of a confirmed diagnosis is indeed higher. It is recommended that you first perform a rapid test. If the result is positive, make sure to rest adequately; you should gradually recover. If the result is negative, it may indicate ano...[Read More] Understanding Occipital Pain: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Is My New Lower Back Pain a Side Effect of Salazopyrin or AS Symptoms?
My new lower back pain symptoms could be indicative of ankylosing spondylitis, or they might be a side effect of taking Celebrex? Hello, Doctor. I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and I have been experiencing symptoms for two years. During the first year, I primarily too...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here is my response: 1) Starting from the second month after taking Salazopyrin, I developed new symptoms of back pain. However, I have not experienced any rashes, fever, jaundice, pallor, diarrhea, headaches, vomiting, or any other physical ...[Read More] Is My New Lower Back Pain a Side Effect of Salazopyrin or AS Symptoms?
Concerns About Hookworm Infection After Stepping in Dog Waste
Stepping barefoot on dog feces? On my way to class today (wearing flip-flops), I accidentally stepped in dog feces without noticing it on the ground. Although I was wearing flip-flops, my foot still came into contact with it. I found some tissue to clean my foot about twenty minu...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the situation you mentioned, the likelihood of a parasitic infection is very low. It is recommended to monitor the condition, provided there are no subsequent symptoms of fever or lymphadenopathy. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Concerns About Hookworm Infection After Stepping in Dog Waste