Is It Safe for My Diabetic Grandpa to Sleep In? Health Implications Explained
Is it okay for my grandfather with diabetes to sleep until he wakes up naturally, even if that means sleeping until noon or later? Hello Dr. Lee, my grandfather is 80 years old and has been a long-term diabetes patient (with a 40-year history). Two years ago, he had a stroke that...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Regarding sleep issues in the elderly and cerebral circulation problems, it is advisable to consult a neurologist. However, if there is a tendency to wake up late, one should be aware of the possibility of hypoglycemia during sleep. If waking up around noon, it may be necessary t...[Read More] Is It Safe for My Diabetic Grandpa to Sleep In? Health Implications Explained
Can Physical Therapy Help Alleviate Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Can the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis be alleviated through rehabilitation? Hello, Doctor. I am a 20-year-old male patient with ankylosing spondylitis. My main issue is pain in my lower back (not reaching the buttocks). Currently, I am taking Celebrex and exercising more to ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my answers: 1) Can using a heating pad at home on my lower back help alleviate the remaining pain? Would a doctor recommend this? --> Yes, it can be beneficial. 2) Is it okay to occasionally go to a rehabilitation department for gen...[Read More] Can Physical Therapy Help Alleviate Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Is High HDL Cholesterol Really Safe? Understanding Your Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol issues Recently, blood tests showed triglycerides at 67 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol at 133 mg/dL, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol at 150 mg/dL, and total cholesterol at 273 mg/dL. The ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol is 2.1...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Some studies have shown that excessively high levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol may be detrimental to health. Elevated HDL cholesterol levels can actually increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, other research has found that having to...[Read More] Is High HDL Cholesterol Really Safe? Understanding Your Cholesterol Levels
Understanding Thrombocytopenia and Acquired Hemolytic Anemia: Treatment Options Explained
Thrombocytopenia and acquired hemolytic anemia? Hello Dr. Gao: In 2019, I discovered many small bruises on my body. After an examination at a clinic, it was found that my platelet count was only 9,000. I was urgently sent to a large hospital's emergency department, and after...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Splenectomy is indeed one of the treatment options for refractory thrombocytopenia. You may want to consult a second physician to re-evaluate any underlying possible autoimmune diseases. If it is confirmed to be immune thrombocytopenia, in addi...[Read More] Understanding Thrombocytopenia and Acquired Hemolytic Anemia: Treatment Options Explained
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire whether my symptoms could be diagnosed as arthritis. At the end of October: I felt an unusual sensation when bending my hands. At the beginning of November: I experienced an unusual sensation in my big toe, and my knees h...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe further monitoring is appropriate. Although the RF value is abnormal, it is not significantly elevated, and with normal CCP levels, I think tracking is sufficient. If ANA, CRP, and ESR are also normal, the likelihood of severe rheumat...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Concerns and Recommendations
Abnormal rheumatoid factor? Hello Doctor, I recently had a health check-up and my RF factor was abnormally high. I am currently under follow-up care (all other tests are normal and there is no inflammation), and I do not have symptoms such as redness, swelling, or pain in my fing...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. Can I undergo aesthetic medical treatments normally? (such as hyaluronic acid injections or radiofrequency therapy.) --> I believe it is fine. 2. Can I practice yoga and engage in exercises that require strengt...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Concerns and Recommendations
Managing Persistent Wound Issues: Insights on Bruises and Blackheads
Wound management questions? There is a small area on my lower leg just below the knee that was originally a grayish color, approximately 2 cm in size, likely caused by long-term friction from wearing pants. One day, I felt a foreign body sensation, and when I squeezed it, a black...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems to be a larger folliculitis, commonly referred to as "dingzi" in Taiwanese. This type of folliculitis does indeed heal very slowly. However, if there is a bacterial infection involved, it may require some debridement and the us...[Read More] Managing Persistent Wound Issues: Insights on Bruises and Blackheads
Understanding White Spots on the Penis: When to Worry and What to Know
Genital issues, may I ask? Hello Doctor, about a year ago I visited a urologist because I noticed a small white spot next to the urethral opening while showering. It is flat and not raised, but it is noticeable at times. Although I have not had sexual intercourse, I do engage in ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the image you provided, it appears that the glandular area is indeed a normal physiological structure. It is recommended to simply monitor it unless there is an enlargement or the appearance of any discharge, in which case you should seek consultation at a urology...[Read More] Understanding White Spots on the Penis: When to Worry and What to Know
Risk of HIV Infection from Contact with Fresh Blood: What You Need to Know
HIV infection from wet blood? Today I went to pick up goods at the store and found blood stains on the counter that were still wet! The clerk helped me place the items on the table, and I didn't have time to react (I touched the surface of the table and the goods, which both...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Based on your description, there should be no risk of infection. 2. Since it has dried, the virus is unlikely to remain. 3. This does not constitute a route of infection. 4. The chance of infection through such contact is very low. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Risk of HIV Infection from Contact with Fresh Blood: What You Need to Know
Can You Contract Hepatitis B from Using a Shared Electric Razor?
Transmission of Hepatitis B If your father has hepatitis B and you are using his old electric razor that he washed with water and air-dried (and you are unsure if it was cleaned properly), there is a potential risk of infection. Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with inf...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, theoretically, if an old razor blade does not have fresh blood on it and you have not been cut by the blade, the risk of infection should be minimal. However, sharing razors is still not recommended. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can You Contract Hepatitis B from Using a Shared Electric Razor?
Can Water Inhalation During Bathing Cause Parasite Infections in Children?
Parasite questions? Hello doctor, I would like to ask if a child accidentally gets water in their nose while bathing and coughs as a result, could this lead to the development of parasites or other diseases or infections? Thank you!
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if you are using tap water, it has undergone filtration and disinfection, so the likelihood of parasitic infections or other special infections should be low. If your child does not exhibit any symptoms afterward, there is no need to worry. In summary, the chance of parasi...[Read More] Can Water Inhalation During Bathing Cause Parasite Infections in Children?
Understanding Cellulitis Treatment: Addressing Ongoing Pain and Swelling
Questions about the treatment of cellulitis? Hello Doctor: My mother experienced redness, swelling, and pain in her foot dorsum at night in late November, accompanied by fever. Therefore, she went to the emergency department for evaluation. Although there were no wounds, the doct...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, in patients with compromised immunity or poor blood circulation, cellulitis can indeed be difficult to resolve. It is usually necessary to confirm whether there is pus formation or bone infection. Based on your description, a CT scan has already been performed, which shoul...[Read More] Understanding Cellulitis Treatment: Addressing Ongoing Pain and Swelling
Is the Effect of Celecoxib on ESR Less Noticeable Than on CRP?
Is the effect of Xeljanz on lowering ESR less pronounced? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis and have been diagnosed for 3 years. For the past year, I have been undergoing treatment with Celecoxib. Although my buttock pain symptoms have significantly improve...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) can be influenced by many factors aside from inflammation, so it is primarily recommended to refer to CRP (C-reactive protein) levels. You can try substituting different anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications. The results from the WBC...[Read More] Is the Effect of Celecoxib on ESR Less Noticeable Than on CRP?
Risk of HIV Infection from Sputum Splash in Eyewear: What You Need to Know
HIV infection Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about the risk of infection if a patient with HIV accidentally splashes sputum into my eyes while assisting with sputum suction. I usually wear prescription glasses, and today while helping the patient, I felt that some sputum m...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, let's review the information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding HIV transmission routes: 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 infe...[Read More] Risk of HIV Infection from Sputum Splash in Eyewear: What You Need to Know
Is It Normal for PEP Packaging to Be Tampered With at the Hospital?
The PEP obtained from the hospital has a seal on the outer box, but the internal packaging has been opened? Hello, doctor. I recently registered at a local hospital and, due to concerns about risks, opted for a self-paid treatment. The outer box of the medication had a seal and a...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Gilead's antiviral medication is currently the first-line treatment for the three-in-one antiviral regimen in the country. It has good efficacy, with mild side effects, and patients generally respond well. 2. Sometimes, patients may not pick up a full bottle of medicatio...[Read More] Is It Normal for PEP Packaging to Be Tampered With at the Hospital?
Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Back Pain: Do NSAIDs and Exercise Always Help?
Can back pain from ankylosing spondylitis be alleviated by taking NSAIDs? Hello Doctor, my son is 19 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for three years. He has undergone relevant blood tests and MRI scans, and the rheumatologist confirmed the diagnosis. ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
For individuals with ankylosing spondylitis experiencing back pain, simply taking NSAIDs along with appropriate exercise may not completely alleviate the pain. It is important to conduct a differential diagnosis to rule out other possibilities. If it is confirmed that the pain is...[Read More] Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Back Pain: Do NSAIDs and Exercise Always Help?
Understanding HIV Test Results: What Does a Reactive EIA Mean?
HIV testing issues I previously underwent a military physical examination, and the HIV test was conducted using the EIA (Enzyme Immunoassay) method, with a result of 370.40, which indicates a reactive result. Does this mean it is positive? If it is positive, should I get tested a...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. The general testing for HIV is divided into two categories: the Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) and the Western Blot test. The former is considered a screening method with a threshold of 1, which can result in a small number of false positives; typically, a result greater than 20 is ...[Read More] Understanding HIV Test Results: What Does a Reactive EIA Mean?
Should I See a Rehabilitation or Rheumatology Specialist for My Symptoms?
Should I see a rehabilitation specialist or a rheumatologist for my plantar fasciitis and tennis elbow symptoms? Hello Doctor: Since receiving the third dose of Moderna (the first two doses were BNT) three months ago, I have experienced the following symptoms starting on the thir...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Users with symptoms of plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, and tenderness in the left thumb joint may have a potential connection to ankylosing spondylitis. CRP/ESR tests can be referenced, but they cannot definitively rule in or out the association. Treatment can be pursued through...[Read More] Should I See a Rehabilitation or Rheumatology Specialist for My Symptoms?
Understanding Lip Bumps: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Lip issues Hello, after having a meal today, I suddenly noticed a small bump under my lower lip that feels like a little blister when I touch it with my tongue. After looking in the mirror, I saw that it is quite small. I would like to ask the doctor what might be the cause of th...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description and the images, it appears to be a herpes virus infection, which typically resolves on its own but is very prone to recurrence. You may consider using acyclovir ointment within three days to reduce the likelihood of recurrence. It is advisable to ...[Read More] Understanding Lip Bumps: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Can Water Inhalation During Bathing Cause Parasite Infections in Children?
Parasitic concerns? Hello doctor, I would like to ask if a child accidentally gets water up their nose while bathing and coughs as a result, could this lead to the development of parasites or other diseases or infections? Thank you!
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if you are using tap water, it has been filtered and disinfected, so the likelihood of encountering parasites or specific infections is low. If your child does not exhibit any symptoms afterwards, there is no need to worry. In summary, the chances of parasitic infection ar...[Read More] Can Water Inhalation During Bathing Cause Parasite Infections in Children?