Concerns About Infection After Beach Cleanup: What You Need to Know
Infection concerns? Hello, I recently participated in a beach cleanup event, and after it ended, I noticed a red spot on the top of my foot. The spot is not bleeding, and I'm unsure if it was caused by a needle on the beach or an insect bite. I would like to know if, in this...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, unless it is confirmed that you have been punctured, based on your description, it is unlikely that you will be infected with any specific pathogens. You should monitor your body for any fever or discomfort, as well as observe the condition of any red spots. If you experie...[Read More] Concerns About Infection After Beach Cleanup: What You Need to Know
Understanding Your Blood Test Results: High CPK and Eosinophil Levels Explained
Blood test Hello Doctor, I went to the emergency room yesterday and had a blood test done. My results are as follows: Hb 17.0, HCT 50.1, MCH 31.8, MCHC 34.0, MCV 94, MPV 9.0, Platelet count 156, RBC count 5.36, RDW 12.7, WBC count 45, Eosinophil 1.5, Lymphocyte 39.5, Monocyte 7.9...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Elevated CPK levels can indeed be related to vigorous exercise, and given your age, this is the most likely reason. Basophils are a type of white blood cell associated with allergies, and their proportion in the total white blood cell count is ...[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: High CPK and Eosinophil Levels Explained
Can Sharing an Electric Toothbrush Lead to Infections?
Indirect infection Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if sharing an electric toothbrush handle while using separate brush heads poses any risk of transmitting or infecting diseases. Thank you! Additionally, I would like to inquire whether there is a risk of infection or disease t...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Using individual brush heads does not pose an infection risk. 2. The disinfection of hospital instruments follows specific regulations, so the risk of infection is quite low. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can Sharing an Electric Toothbrush Lead to Infections?
Understanding False Positives in Syphilis Testing: A Case Study
Is it possible for a treponemal test to yield a false positive result? I am 36 years old. In August, I donated blood and received a notification that my TPHA was positive and RPR was negative. In January, my blood donation results were still normal, all negative. In November, I w...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the two indices for syphilis, RPR and TPHA, show that RPR is more sensitive and can easily yield false positives, which may turn negative after syphilis treatment. On the other hand, the chance of false positives with TPHA is very low, and it typically remains positive eve...[Read More] Understanding False Positives in Syphilis Testing: A Case Study
Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Lead to Rapid Osteoporosis in Young Patients?
Will ankylosing spondylitis quickly lead to osteoporosis? Hello Dr. Gao: I am currently 19 years old and have been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for 2.8 years, with symptoms limited to pain in the buttocks. For the first 1.5 years, I was unaware that it was ankylosing spo...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Patients with ankylosing spondylitis are more prone to osteoporosis, which is why we recommend regular exercise. In addition to alleviating pain and preventing adhesions, another reason is to avoid osteoporosis. Therefore, in addition to taking...[Read More] Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Lead to Rapid Osteoporosis in Young Patients?
Concerns About Needle Stick Injuries in the Operating Room
Stung by a thorn? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about an incident that occurred while I was working in the operating room. That day, a very small suture needle was left on the table, and while collecting instruments, I accidentally pressed on the needle. I was wearing glo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is indeed difficult to determine the likelihood of infection based on your description. In clinical practice, if there is any suspicion of a needlestick injury similar to your situation, we typically follow the needlestick protocol to assess the risk of infection. Thank...[Read More] Concerns About Needle Stick Injuries in the Operating Room
Understanding Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help for Your Loved One
Abdominal bloating and pain? My father is 58 years old. He usually smokes and drinks alcohol, and often doesn't finish his meals, eating in several portions. Since I started visiting him last year, I've noticed he has been gradually losing weight because he feels full a...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello! It is recommended to first visit the family medicine department or the gastroenterology and hepatology outpatient clinic at the hospital. After evaluation by a physician, further examinations and treatments can be arranged. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help for Your Loved One
Understanding Abnormal eGFR: Insights into Kidney Function Issues
Experience reports indicate abnormal glomerular filtration rate? Hello Doctor, the results of my recent tests show a creatinine level of 0.84, BUN of 13, and eGFR of 86.4 (indicating a significant abnormality). My albumin level is 4.3, and I weigh 48 kg. I have a low skeletal mus...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you bring your health check-up report to a family medicine or nephrology clinic for evaluation by a physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal eGFR: Insights into Kidney Function Issues
Chronic Tongue Pain: Understanding Possible Causes and Solutions
Immune system Hello doctor, my issue is that the back and side of my tongue on the right side hurts, and the front feels prickly and numb. This has been going on for over a year. I have seen countless specialists in otolaryngology, oral pathology, oral and maxillofacial surgery, ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I suggest you first consult with a neurologist. It is likely not closely related to immune function. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.[Read More] Chronic Tongue Pain: Understanding Possible Causes and Solutions
Living with a Single Kidney: Health Tips and Life Expectancy Insights
What are the lifestyle and life expectancy considerations for individuals with congenital solitary kidney and hydronephrosis? Hello, doctor. Recently, my boyfriend and I are preparing to get married, and we did a premarital health checkup. My boyfriend has a congenital single kid...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Dear Ms. Tianle, Regarding kidney health, it is recommended to measure your blood pressure daily. If your blood pressure is elevated, please consult a physician for evaluation. Additionally, pay attention to your dietary intake of salt and protein, ensuring it is within appropri...[Read More] Living with a Single Kidney: Health Tips and Life Expectancy Insights
Understanding Oral Ulcers: Healing Process and Structural Differences
Oral ulceration Previously, I had a suspected hole in my cheek or oral cavity that was quite large. I didn't pay much attention to it, and after a day, it stopped hurting, and I forgot how many days have passed. It should have been at least a week since that spot stopped hur...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, there are many causes of oral ulcers, including the friction from teeth or viral infections. If the ulcer persists for more than a week, it is recommended to visit a dental clinic for an examination to determine the cause. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Oral Ulcers: Healing Process and Structural Differences
Facial Nerve Paralysis: Challenges in Diagnosis and Insurance Claims
Facial nerve paralysis Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my mother who had a car accident previously. She is now experiencing facial nerve paralysis and occasionally loses her sense of taste. However, the physician we consulted said that due to the lack of proper diagnostic...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, there is often a gap between clinical diagnoses and insurance coverage. It is advisable to first ask the physician what diagnosis can be provided based on the current medical condition. Then, inquire with the insurance company about the coverage for that specific diagnosis...[Read More] Facial Nerve Paralysis: Challenges in Diagnosis and Insurance Claims
Managing Chronic Fatigue and Immune Issues: A Comprehensive Guide
Feeling unwell? At the age of 41, my immune system seems to be particularly weak, and I have trouble sleeping. My gastrointestinal digestion has slowed down, and I feel that the nutrients from the food I eat are not being absorbed properly, leading to frequent vaginal infections ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It is recommended to maintain a regular routine and engage in regular exercise to boost immunity and reduce the likelihood of infections. 2. Regarding blood pressure, it does not directly affect immunity; however, effectively managing blood pressure can reduce the ri...[Read More] Managing Chronic Fatigue and Immune Issues: A Comprehensive Guide
Managing Diabetes: Dietary Tips for Seniors with High Blood Sugar
Diabetes Recipe Hello Doctor, my grandmother is 148 cm tall and weighs 31 kg. She follows a lacto-vegetarian diet and has diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia, with blood sugar levels around 120-140 mg/dL. She takes oral medications for blood sugar and blood pressure in the...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
The dietary principles for diabetes focus on a balanced diet, emphasizing the intake of foods rich in dietary fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. It is important to avoid refined carbohydrate foods, such as sugar, desserts, fruit juices, honey, and sugary beverag...[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Dietary Tips for Seniors with High Blood Sugar
Understanding Suppurative Tonsillitis: When to Seek Hospitalization
Tonsillitis with suppuration? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about my condition. On November 1st, I went to the emergency room due to a sore throat that made it difficult to swallow and a fever. The emergency diagnosis was purulent tonsillitis. I had blood tests done, and ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is recommended to have an otolaryngologist perform a laryngoscopy to examine the throat. If pus is found, consideration should be given to a minor surgical procedure for incision and drainage, and possibly hospitalization. If it is merely infl...[Read More] Understanding Suppurative Tonsillitis: When to Seek Hospitalization
Assessing HIV Infection Risk from Minor Injuries and Oral Symptoms
Risk of HIV Infection On October 1st, I noticed a small amount of unknown blood on my right big toe. I'm not sure if it was from someone who dripped it on the ground or if I stepped on it, as I didn't feel anything and didn't notice anyone nearby bleeding. However,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description of the wound on your foot, it is unlikely that it has led to an HIV infection. The symptoms you described are not indicative of HIV, so there is no need for you to undergo specific testing at this time. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Assessing HIV Infection Risk from Minor Injuries and Oral Symptoms
Understanding Back Pain Patterns in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Key Symptoms and Management
Experiencing pain when extending the lower back but not when bending forward is a typical symptom of ankylosing spondylitis? Dear Dr. Gao, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis and have been experiencing symptoms for over two years. Initially, I only had pain in my buttocks...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Are my symptoms (pain in the lower back when arching, no pain when bending forward) typical symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis? --> No. 2) If it is not a typical symptom, would Dr. Gao recommend that I see a reh...[Read More] Understanding Back Pain Patterns in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Key Symptoms and Management
Understanding the Kidney Risks of Long-Term NSAID Use: Dosage Matters
The dosage of NSAIDs that can cause kidney damage? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about the issue of long-term NSAID use and its impact on kidney health. What dosage would be considered harmful to the kidneys? If someone takes 2-3 tablets of ibuprofen (200 mg each) during men...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Dear Evonne: It is well known that long-term use of NSAIDs may harm the kidneys; however, there are no clinical studies indicating the dosage of NSAIDs that could cause kidney damage in young, healthy adults (such as yourself at 28 years old). It is recommended that you first und...[Read More] Understanding the Kidney Risks of Long-Term NSAID Use: Dosage Matters
Frequent Bloating and Diarrhea: What Could Be the Cause?
Frequent bloating and diarrhea? In recent months, I have frequently experienced bloating in the lower left abdomen and diarrhea, which improves for a few days only to return again. A few days ago, my urine appeared brownish, but it has not been brown in the last two days, althoug...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, it is likely that your symptoms are not caused by the same disease. Blood tests, urine tests, and stool tests may be necessary to determine the underlying conditions. I recommend that you first schedule an appointment with a family medicine clinic for e...[Read More] Frequent Bloating and Diarrhea: What Could Be the Cause?
Can Celecoxib Effectively Lower ESR in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients?
Can Xeljanz lower ESR? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis and have been diagnosed for one year. During this year, I have been taking Celecoxib. Although my buttock pain has resolved and my CRP levels are normal, my ESR has not shown significant improvement d...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Although Celecoxib is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic medication, it does not have the effect of lowering ESR, is that correct? --> I believe that using anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications to lower ESR is...[Read More] Can Celecoxib Effectively Lower ESR in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients?