Understanding HIV Testing: Do You Need Further Testing After Negative Results?
HIV issues Hello doctor, I had risky sexual behavior on September 6. I tested negative for antigen and antibodies at 15 days, negative for antibodies at 42 days, negative at 84 days, and negative at 99 days. Do I still need to get tested, and what is the likelihood of a conversio...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, consider two sexually transmitted infections: 1. Syphilis: The window period is one and a half months. If the test is negative after 99 days, there is no cause for concern. 2. HIV: The window period is three to six months. If the test is negative after 99 days, it is recom...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Do You Need Further Testing After Negative Results?
Ensuring Food Safety for Kids: Tips to Prevent Bacteria and Illness
Could you please provide more context or specify your question? Hello Doctor, my child is currently in an exploratory phase and tends to touch everything. I would like to know if it is safe for my child to play with food taken from the refrigerator or to eat raw or frozen foods, ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, raw food does contain many bacteria, but as long as it doesn't enter the mouth, it shouldn't have a significant impact. Just make sure to wash your hands and clean any surfaces that come into contact with the food. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Ensuring Food Safety for Kids: Tips to Prevent Bacteria and Illness
Understanding Antibody Response in Viral Infections: Key Questions Answered
Human Immunity: A Few Questions 1. Doctor, once the human body is infected with a virus, will it definitely produce antibodies? Is it possible for someone to not produce any antibodies at all, such as individuals with congenital immune deficiencies? 2. After a person is infected...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The amount of antibodies is related to the capability of B cells in the body. If the immune system is very weak, it may indeed be unable to produce antibodies. 2. A decrease in antigens can partially indicate a reduction in the virus; however, a decrease in the virus...[Read More] Understanding Antibody Response in Viral Infections: Key Questions Answered
Post-Cellulitis Complications: Understanding Your Ongoing Symptoms
What are the sequelae of cellulitis? In May 2021, I suddenly experienced severe pain on the inner side of my left tibia when getting out of bed. Walking was also very painful. Initially, I thought it was plantar fasciitis since I had been running a lot in the days prior. However,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, during the recovery process of cellulitis, it is indeed common for the surface to start peeling, which does not necessarily indicate a lack of improvement. However, the tissue is more fragile right after recovery, and continued exercise, work, or rehabilitation pressure ca...[Read More] Post-Cellulitis Complications: Understanding Your Ongoing Symptoms
Unexplained Left Back Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Unexplained back pain? Left-sided back pain that comes and goes mildly, with no pain during breathing. There is a slight tingling sensation in the left arm and a feeling of chest tightness. I have seen a cardiologist and also visited a clinic; my blood pressure is normal and lung...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: You may consider visiting the pulmonary medicine outpatient clinic. Thank you for your message![Read More] Unexplained Left Back Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding HIV and STI Risks: Safe Practices and Concerns
Risk of HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Hello doctor, I visited the obstetrics and gynecology department today. Whenever I know an internal examination is needed, I wear disposable underwear. However, today when I threw away the disposable underwear, I accide...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is unlikely to result in contracting HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding HIV and STI Risks: Safe Practices and Concerns
Understanding False Positives in Military HIV Testing: Key Insights
Military service medical examination issues? Hello doctor, I underwent a military physical examination in December, and a month later I was informed that I tested positive for HIV. In January, I immediately purchased an at-home rapid HIV test, which returned a negative result. I ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to visit the infectious disease outpatient department at a medical center for a Combo test or Western blot test to confirm whether there is an actual infection. As for your daily routine, it should not significantly affect the test results. Thank you for ...[Read More] Understanding False Positives in Military HIV Testing: Key Insights
Negative Rapid Test but Positive RPR: Understanding Syphilis Diagnosis
Rapid test negative but RPR positive? Due to having a rash on my body, and aside from that, there are no signs of primary syphilis or rashes on my hands and feet. I saw a doctor this morning who ordered a blood test, and I will wait a week for the results. However, I took an anon...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, let's take a look at what tests were performed in the anonymous screening to understand the negative report results. 2. Additionally, syphilis is generally tested using RPR/VDRL and TPHA/TPPA to clarify the patient's status. It is recommended to seek a nearby ...[Read More] Negative Rapid Test but Positive RPR: Understanding Syphilis Diagnosis
Understanding Thyroid Nodules: What You Need to Know
Thyroid enlargement (goiter) related issues? Hello Doctor, I am #191626: During the last examination, two thyroid nodules were detected, one measuring 0.3 x 0.3 x 0.3 cm and the other 0.2 x 0.2 x 0.1 cm. I would like to ask if there is anything I need to pay attention to? (Becaus...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If you have a thyroid nodule, it is recommended to undergo ultrasound monitoring once every one to two years.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Nodules: What You Need to Know
Key Health Concerns and Obesity: Understanding Your Test Results
Issues I should be aware of regarding obesity? Examination Date Examination Item Result 01/13/112 Creatinine (U) 22.70 01/13/112 Urine Protein 4.00 01/13/112 Glucose (B) 98.00 01/13/112 HbA1c 6.20 01/13/112 GPT 64 01/13/112 HDL-C 45 01/13/112 LDL-C 82.00 01/13/112...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
A hemoglobin A1c level of 6.2 indicates prediabetes, and it is important to implement dietary control and exercise to prevent the progression to diabetes in the future.[Read More] Key Health Concerns and Obesity: Understanding Your Test Results
Addressing Medication Concerns in Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
Medication-related issues in ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, I am #191834, and I have some additional questions to ask you. Thank you for your help: 1. I have been taking Silenor for about six months, but I feel it is not very effective. What should I do? 2. My doctor did...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I have been taking Silodosin for about six months, but I feel it is not very effective. What should I do? --> Please discuss this with your prescribing physician, as there are other medications available. If neces...[Read More] Addressing Medication Concerns in Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
Can I Take These Medications Together? A Doctor's Advice on Drug Interactions
Medication Consultation Hello Dr. Hong, Happy New Year! I apologize for the interruption. May I ask if it is safe to take the following medications together: Losartan Potassium 50 mg extended-release film-coated tablets, Pentoxifylline 400 mg film-coated tablets, Empagliflozin 25...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the medications you mentioned should be able to be used together; however, there may be some drug interactions between them. It may be necessary to adjust the dosages, so please consult your attending physician or clinical pharmacist. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can I Take These Medications Together? A Doctor's Advice on Drug Interactions
Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain During Cold Weather: Tips and Insights
When a cold front arrives, the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis tend to flare up? Dear Doctor, Happy New Year! I am a 20-year-old patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and I have been experiencing symptoms for 3.5 years. Currently, I am managing my condition with two Sulfasalaz...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Regarding the acute pain caused by the cold front, can I stop taking Celebrex (but continue with Salazopyrin), and switch to a more immediate but not suitable for long-term use strong analgesic (non-NSAIDs), and then...[Read More] Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain During Cold Weather: Tips and Insights
Can Touching Public Trash Cans Lead to Infections? A Doctor's Insight
May I ask the doctor? Hello doctor, I would like to ask if there is a concern about contracting sexually transmitted infections or other diseases from touching the metal parts of public restroom trash cans or garbage bins? (I wash my hands after using the restroom) Thank you.
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if there is no wound caused, there should be no concern for infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can Touching Public Trash Cans Lead to Infections? A Doctor's Insight
Understanding Muscle Pain and Nail Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Please ask your two questions? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about an issue I experienced. I was lying in bed in a poor position and suddenly tried to sit up like doing a sit-up. In that moment, I felt a sudden pulling or cramping sensation near my buttocks, close to the anus...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. What you mentioned is likely due to muscle strain caused by poor posture. If there are no specific discomforts afterward, it should be fine to just monitor it. 2. Regarding the nails, it appears that the variation in color is simply due to changes in blood flow and d...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Pain and Nail Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Risk of HIV Infection from Skin Breaks During Sexual Contact
Inquiry about HIV infection? If there is a broken skin in the groin area and sexual intercourse occurs with a sex worker, is there a risk of infection if the broken skin comes into contact with vaginal fluids?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding the depth of the wound, deeper lacerations do carry certain risks. If you are unable to confirm the situation, it is advisable to undergo sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Risk of HIV Infection from Skin Breaks During Sexual Contact
The Relationship Between Proteinuria and Osteolytic Lesions: A Clinical Inquiry
The relationship between proteinuria and osteolytic lesions? Hello, Doctor Wu. Happy New Year. I have a question. At the end of April last year, I underwent a PET scan, which revealed two osteolytic lesions in my body. Here are the excerpts from the report: 1. There are two osteo...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Hello: 1. I am curious about the reason for your positron emission tomography (PET) scan. If it is due to cancer with suspected bone metastasis, certain cancers can secrete various proteins, which may lead to increased urinary protein levels even in the absence of bone metastas...[Read More] The Relationship Between Proteinuria and Osteolytic Lesions: A Clinical Inquiry
Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis: Medication and Pain Relief Tips
Medication-related issues in ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you the following questions: 1. Between Salazine and Celebrex, which one has fewer side effects and is more suitable for long-term use? 2. I am currently taking two capsules of Celebrex a day...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Between Salazine and Celebrex, which has fewer side effects and is suitable for long-term use? Salazine needs to be taken long-term and consistently. This medication addresses the root cause of the disease rather than...[Read More] Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis: Medication and Pain Relief Tips
Understanding ANA Testing in Relation to Lupus and Allergies
Regarding ANA testing in systemic lupus erythematosus? Hello, around September 2022, I experienced redness and itching on my face and scalp, along with peeling skin and increased hair loss. I also felt fatigued and had difficulty concentrating. However, I did not have joint pain ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Although the ANA test result is negative, considering that the butterfly rash appeared in September, which was four months ago, how accurate is this blood test? Can systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a negative ...[Read More] Understanding ANA Testing in Relation to Lupus and Allergies
Risk of Infection from a Doll's Needle: What You Need to Know
Stabbed by a doll's pin? Today, while unpacking a package that arrived from China, I took out a doll and didn't notice that the pin at the back was open, which pricked me. Upon closer inspection, I found that the wound only scratched the skin and there was no bleeding. ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if a needle has definitely been used on someone else before being used again, tests will be conducted for HIV, syphilis (VDRL or RPR), HBV, and HCV. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Risk of Infection from a Doll's Needle: What You Need to Know