Understanding the HIV Testing Window Period: What You Need to Know
HIV testing issues Hello doctor, I had sexual contact with a sex worker on March 8th. I used a condom throughout the encounter (no condom for oral sex and condom for vaginal intercourse), and there were no signs of breakage. I would like to know how long I should wait for an anon...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if there has been no unsafe sexual behavior for more than three months and all tests are negative, the likelihood of infection is very low. Currently, it is recommended to undergo a Combo test. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding the HIV Testing Window Period: What You Need to Know
Understanding Low Hemoglobin Levels: Symptoms, Treatment, and Next Steps
Understanding the Health Check Report dated February 27, 2023? I would like to understand how to treat my current hemoglobin level of 8.2. My lab results show RBC 4.18, Hgb 8.2, Hct 29.6, MCV 70.8, MCH 19.6, and MCHC 27.7. I often experience dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, l...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the issues you mentioned involve several different specialties. For anemia, please continue taking iron supplements. Heavy menstrual flow may be a cause of iron deficiency anemia, so please consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist to see if medication adjustments can help...[Read More] Understanding Low Hemoglobin Levels: Symptoms, Treatment, and Next Steps
Can Undetectable HIV Viral Load Result in Negative Test Results?
Viral load is undetectable? If the HIV viral load is undetectable, will an HIV test during a routine blood check at a regular company show a negative result?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, theoretically it should present as negative. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can Undetectable HIV Viral Load Result in Negative Test Results?
Understanding Dizziness and Body Sensations While Using Your Phone
Dizziness with slight swaying of the body? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask about a situation I experience when lying on my side with a pillow while using my phone, or when lying face down on the bed. Sometimes, I feel a slight swaying sensation in my body, which makes me think...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the most common causes of dizziness are inner ear imbalance and brain issues. Compression of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves in the neck may also lead to dizziness. To determine the specific cause, it is necessary to consult a neurologist or an otolaryngologist ...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Body Sensations While Using Your Phone
Health Concerns: Animal Carcasses, Hygiene, and Intimate Care
May I ask the doctor? Hello, Doctor. I have a few questions: 1. If I step on a bird or other animal carcass while wearing shoes, is there a risk of infection? 2. Additionally, if a tire runs over an animal carcass and I check and touch it, is washing my hands sufficient? 3. Is ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. There will be no concerns about infection. 2. Yes, washing hands is indeed the most important. 3. Yes, excessive cleaning can indeed be uncomfortable. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Health Concerns: Animal Carcasses, Hygiene, and Intimate Care
Exploring Combined T4 and T3 Therapy Post-Thyroidectomy in Taiwan
Total thyroidectomy for papillary thyroid carcinoma, with a new medication option combining LT4 (Levothyroxine) and LT3 (Liothyronine)? Hello Doctor, I underwent a thyroidectomy in July 2022 and have been taking Levothyroxine Sodium at a total dosage of 100 mcg per day. I current...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Currently, in Taiwan, only thyroxine supplementation is available, and thyroid function is adjusted by modifying the dosage of thyroxine. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Exploring Combined T4 and T3 Therapy Post-Thyroidectomy in Taiwan
Understanding Umbilical Inflammation: Symptoms, Causes, and Next Steps
Umbilical inflammation Hello, my belly button has been inflamed since early January this year. I have taken antibiotics for two months but have not recovered; I still have pus daily, although the amount is gradually decreasing. The dermatologist mentioned that there is a cyst ins...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is indeed very unlikely for the cyst to become malignant. If the symptoms persist, you may consider consulting an infectious disease specialist or a general surgeon for further evaluation. A CT scan or surgery may be necessary. Thank you for y...[Read More] Understanding Umbilical Inflammation: Symptoms, Causes, and Next Steps
Can Cleaning Public Restrooms Spread Germs and Infections?
May I ask the doctor? Hello, Doctor: I have a couple of questions. 1. If I am cleaning a public restroom (like in an office) and come into contact with the sink, door handles, or other surfaces, is there a possibility of bacteria or viruses remaining that could infect other users...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the two situations you mentioned can be managed by ensuring proper hand hygiene, which will prevent infections. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can Cleaning Public Restrooms Spread Germs and Infections?
Understanding Bone Marrow Suppression Risks from Salazopyrin Use
Could I be experiencing bone marrow suppression as a side effect after taking Salazopyrin? Hello, Doctor Gao. I would like to ask you some additional questions. I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and my main symptom is pain in my buttocks. Since my blood test on March 2n...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) The package insert for Salazopyrin mentions rare side effects such as bone marrow suppression. My RBC, Hb, and PLT levels seem to have started declining after taking Salazopyrin (all have dropped to the lower limit of...[Read More] Understanding Bone Marrow Suppression Risks from Salazopyrin Use
Understanding Blood Test Results in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Rheumatoid arthritis blood test values I have had rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for three years and have been on biologic therapy for about two years. Since the onset of the disease, my blood test results have shown an ESR between 15-40. Recently, during a follow-up visit, my blood r...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Your abnormal blood test results seem to be more related to the biologic therapy, but generally, they are not a major concern. However, if you are still experiencing multiple joint pains despite receiving biologic treatment, it is important to d...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Understanding Glucose Tolerance Tests: Can You Safely Eat Carbs?
Glucose tolerance test Hello doctor, a year ago I had a hemoglobin A1c test that showed 5.8, and the doctor said I was in the prediabetes stage. Since then, I have been cautious about eating carbohydrates, and when I retested my hemoglobin A1c, it was 5.4, with normal insulin res...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Staple foods can include whole grain rice or brown rice, and it is advisable to choose high-fiber or whole foods while minimizing refined carbohydrates. Patients with prediabetes can undergo an oral glucose tolerance test; however, currently, the focus is primarily on hemoglobin ...[Read More] Understanding Glucose Tolerance Tests: Can You Safely Eat Carbs?
Understanding Thyroid Nodules: Concerns and Quick Diagnosis Options
Thyroid nodule Hello Doctor: My daughter has developed a tumor on her neck that is about 2 centimeters in size. After researching online, I understand that it may require surgical removal. I am very worried and feel helpless, and I want my daughter to undergo an examination as so...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
It is unnecessary to perform two thyroid biopsies in a short period of time, and health insurance may not cover the second one if done too soon. It is recommended to have one biopsy done at a medical center or a large teaching hospital. Please consult with a thyroid surgeon or an...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Nodules: Concerns and Quick Diagnosis Options
Understanding Fluctuations in Hs-CRP Levels for Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients
Does eating salad cause fluctuations in hs-CRP levels? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and my main symptom is pain in the buttocks. Since March 2nd of last year, I have been taking two Salazopyrin daily and only taking Voltaren when I experience pain (th...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
1) The activity of ankylosing spondylitis naturally fluctuates and is not ineffective. 2) It is possible that medication was not taken, or the disease itself may be changing. 3) There are reports indicating that COVID-19 infection can lead to increased instability in autoimmune d...[Read More] Understanding Fluctuations in Hs-CRP Levels for Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients
Swallowed Fish Bone: Should You See a Doctor for Chest Pain?
Accidental ingestion of a fish bone? Hello, a few days ago I got a fish bone stuck in my throat, and it seems I swallowed it. Since yesterday, I've been experiencing a burning sensation in my chest that has lasted all day. Should I see a doctor? I'm worried that the fis...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, theoretically, the symptoms of accidentally swallowing a fishbone do not typically include a burning sensation, so the likelihood of that is considered low. However, if the symptoms persist, one should consider esophageal reflux. If discomfort continues, it is advisable to...[Read More] Swallowed Fish Bone: Should You See a Doctor for Chest Pain?
Understanding Black Lines on Your Finger: Causes and Concerns
Finger problems I would like to ask the doctor, while I was abroad today, I suddenly noticed a small black line on the pad of my pinky finger that wouldn't wash off. I am wondering if this could be an infection or if it suddenly appeared due to some other issue. I searched o...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your image, it appears to be a mark from a previous accidental injury and does not seem to be a specific pathological change. I recommend monitoring it unless you experience significant discomfort or if it continues to enlarge, in which case you should seek medica...[Read More] Understanding Black Lines on Your Finger: Causes and Concerns
Should You Adjust Your Diet for Slightly Elevated Fasting Glucose?
Pre-meal elevated glucose levels issue? I would like to ask the doctor, during a recent blood test, my fasting glucose level was 96. Although it is still within the normal range of 70-100, should I make adjustments to my diet based on this value, or do glucose levels vary with ea...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: The blood sugar levels measured before meals may not always be the same. There can be fluctuations, but as long as they are within the normal range, they can be considered normal values. It is recommended to adjust your diet to avoid abnormalities.[Read More] Should You Adjust Your Diet for Slightly Elevated Fasting Glucose?
Understanding the Importance of Follow-Up Testing After Negative Rapid Combo Tests
Rapid Test Combo Fourth Generation I went to the clinic for a rapid test using the Abbott fourth-generation combo antigen and antibody test. I have been in the window period for one month, and it has been six weeks since the incident. The result came back negative, but the nurse ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. The most important factor is whether there has been any unsafe sexual behavior or sharing of needles, rather than focusing on how long one should be monitored. 2. Of course, fourth-generation combination tests are quite accurate, and most results will be negative after six mon...[Read More] Understanding the Importance of Follow-Up Testing After Negative Rapid Combo Tests
Understanding Elevated Mono Levels and Lymph Node Swelling: What to Know
Infection-related issues? Hello Doctor, I have some questions I would like to ask you: Current situation: 1) During a recent blood test, it was found that my monocyte count was above the normal range (normal is under 10, and my count was around 11; all other blood cell values wer...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: 1. The total count of monocytes is typically assessed based on the total white blood cell count and the percentage they represent, as looking at the percentage alone may not provide an accurate assessment. 2. If there is only swelling in the groin area, it is important to ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Mono Levels and Lymph Node Swelling: What to Know
Understanding Dizziness and Head Injuries: Key Recovery Tips
Dizziness and fainting followed by a head injury? Hello Dr. Hong, my girlfriend is in Spain. A couple of days ago, she suddenly fainted in the kitchen and hit her head. When she went to see a doctor, the doctor requested some physiological response tests, such as whether her eyes...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to monitor for severe headaches or vomiting within the next 48 hours. If either occurs, you should promptly return to the emergency department for evaluation of potential intracranial hemorrhage. If no significant symptoms develop afterward, the likelihoo...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Head Injuries: Key Recovery Tips
Why Did the Effectiveness of Salazopyrine Diminish for My Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Why has the effect of Salbutamol diminished? Hello, Doctor Gao. I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and my main symptom is pain in the buttocks. Since March 2 of last year, I have been taking two Salazopyrin daily and only taking Voltaren when I experience pain (the pain ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1) For patients with ankylosing spondylitis, in the absence of special circumstances and without interruption of medication, the use of Salazopyrin (sulfasalazine) generally maintains effective control over HSCRP levels....[Read More] Why Did the Effectiveness of Salazopyrine Diminish for My Ankylosing Spondylitis?