Can You Get Infected from Contact with Family Member's Blood?
Regarding contact with another person's blood? Hello Dr. Lin, my family member needs to check their blood sugar, but they cannot operate the device and cannot see, so I assist them. Today, my family member bled more than usual, and when I was about to discard the test strip,...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, there are many diseases that can be transmitted through exposure to blood and bodily fluids. The ones that are usually of particular concern are HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. It would be advisable to first check if any of your family members have a history o...[Read More] Can You Get Infected from Contact with Family Member's Blood?
Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Raw Fish Delivery
Sashimi rice bowl delivered on a hot summer day? Hello Doctor, due to my internship, I am currently in Shanghai. On May 17, 2024, during a hot day, I had delivery of chopped sashimi, which included fresh Norwegian salmon, Arctic sweet shrimp, and Arctic surf clams. In the afterno...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, leaving raw food at higher temperatures significantly increases the risk of bacterial growth, which can lead to gastroenteritis. In contrast, the relationship between parasites and temperature is minimal (if food contains parasites, they do not proliferate within the food)...[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Raw Fish Delivery
Understanding Fecal-Oral Infections: Parasites and Pathogenic Bacteria
Fecal-oral transmission of parasites or pathogenic bacteria? Hello Dr. Lin, I previously inquired about chronic diarrhea and suspect that it may be due to a parasitic or pathogenic bacterial infection from an incident over three years ago when I accidentally ingested toilet water...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. There are many bacteria, predominantly Escherichia coli. 2. Parasites are typically present in individuals who have been recently infected; thus, the water in the toilet may contain parasites only if someone with a parasitic infection has used it (parasites cannot survive long...[Read More] Understanding Fecal-Oral Infections: Parasites and Pathogenic Bacteria
Could Bathing with Fig Leaves Lead to Parasitic Infections?
Parasitic infection Due to a visit to a temple for worship, the temple master advised washing the body with 49 leaves from a banyan tree. After returning home, I picked 49 leaves from a potted banyan tree at my doorstep, forgetting to wash the leaves first. I placed the leaves in...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the risk of parasitic infection is very low, as there are few known parasites that can harm the human body found on leaves. Additionally, washing with water will not allow parasites to enter the body. There's no need to worry.[Read More] Could Bathing with Fig Leaves Lead to Parasitic Infections?
Could My Symptoms Indicate Fibromyalgia? A Self-Assessment Guide
Could these symptoms be "fibromyalgia"? I'm sorry, Doctor: I would like to self-assess whether I have "fibromyalgia." Q1: I usually experience persistent pain (around 5 to 7 out of 10), and sometimes it suddenly escalates to 10 out of 10, lasting for seve...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Please consult a rheumatologist regarding fibromyalgia. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Could My Symptoms Indicate Fibromyalgia? A Self-Assessment Guide
Understanding Mild Mitral Valve Prolapse and Heart Failure Symptoms
Suspected heart failure with mitral valve issues? Hello Doctor, thank you for your response. To provide some background, last year I experienced several months of sleep deprivation. I usually do not drink alcohol, but one night while out with friends, I was forced to drink a cock...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: MVP is a common condition characterized by the prolapse of one or both leaflets of the mitral valve into the left atrium during systole due to mitral valve insufficiency. The pathological mechanism is not fully understood. Pro-BNP testing can assist in the diagnosis of con...[Read More] Understanding Mild Mitral Valve Prolapse and Heart Failure Symptoms
Concerned About Cat Tapeworm Infection? What You Need to Know
I am very worried about getting infected with cat tapeworms? Today, I suddenly discovered that my pet cat has tapeworms. I often let him play on the bed and lick me, and today I kissed him and buried my face in him without washing my face. I read online that tapeworms are transmi...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to take your pet cat to the veterinary clinic for screening. If the cat does not have tapeworms, the owner generally does not need to worry. However, if the cat does have them, the cat should receive treatment, and then we can discuss whether the owner ne...[Read More] Concerned About Cat Tapeworm Infection? What You Need to Know
Concerns About Parasite Infections for Immunocompromised Patients
Parasitic infection issues? I have an autoimmune disease and I'm currently taking immunosuppressive medication, which makes my immune system weaker. I just noticed some small worms in my drinking cup and I'm a bit worried about the risk of infections from parasites like...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
The likelihood of a single event occurring is very low, so it is recommended to just observe. If there are no issues after one to two weeks, then there is likely no problem. Seek medical attention if you experience any discomfort![Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infections for Immunocompromised Patients
Concerns About Blood Exposure During Hospital IV Procedures
Issues related to bleeding during injections in the hospital? Hello Dr. Liao, today I went to the hospital for an MRI examination. The nurse placed an intravenous catheter in the inner side of my wrist, and halfway through the MRI, she administered a contrast agent. After the MRI...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, let's take a look at the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding the three main transmission routes of the HIV virus: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual or exchang...[Read More] Concerns About Blood Exposure During Hospital IV Procedures
Understanding ESR and IgG Fluctuations in Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
After one year of treatment with the biological agent Revlimid (lenalidomide), EXR71? Hello, I would like to ask about a personal case of ankylosing spondylitis. I was diagnosed at the age of 10, and I am now 28 years old. I have been taking Celebrex and Methotrexate. In 2023, I ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The reasons for the increase in ESR and IgG after administering targeted therapy should be investigated, including the possibility of new inflammation or infection, or even changes in rheumatic disease. These factors involve the overall conditi...[Read More] Understanding ESR and IgG Fluctuations in Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Onset Occur After Age 50?
Is it possible for ankylosing spondylitis to develop at the age of 50? I am a 51-year-old female who has been experiencing significant tightness and stiffness in my hip joint for at least three years. I initially thought it was due to natural aging, prolonged sitting at work, or ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: (1) Is it possible for ankylosing spondylitis to onset at the age of 50? --> The likelihood is low, but it is possible. (2) If both CRP and ESR are normal, does that mean it is unrelated to ankylosing spondylitis? --&...[Read More] Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Onset Occur After Age 50?
Distinguishing Between Normal Sweating and Night Sweats: When to Seek Help
Regarding sweating and night sweats? Hello, doctor! I would like to ask how to distinguish between normal sweating and night sweats. What symptoms of sweating require medical attention? This morning, I checked my body and there was no sweat, but later when I was showering, I noti...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Night sweats often accompany other discomforts, including symptoms related to the autonomic nervous system, such as panic, palpitations, shortness of breath, or dizziness. The amount of sweating during night sweats can be significant, often leav...[Read More] Distinguishing Between Normal Sweating and Night Sweats: When to Seek Help
Can Short-Term High Protein Diet Raise Cholesterol Levels?
High cholesterol Hello Doctor, I had a health check in early December, and my cholesterol was 200 with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) around 55. Recently, in early April, my test results showed cholesterol at 244 with HDL around 75. My body fat and weight have not changed. I woul...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Cholesterol levels can be influenced by diet, which may include short-term high-fat diets.[Read More] Can Short-Term High Protein Diet Raise Cholesterol Levels?
Concerns About Infection Risks from Hotel Showerheads in Taiwan
Infection issues Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask about an incident that happened while I was at a hotel in Taiwan with my family. I adjusted the showerhead and pressed on the area where the water sprays out. At that moment, I felt a sharp pain, but later I checked my finger an...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, if there is no obvious bleeding or wound on the finger, there is basically little chance of transmitting any infectious disease. Please don't worry.[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks from Hotel Showerheads in Taiwan
Concerns About HIV Infection from Contaminated Hair Removal Cream
HIV infection Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you some questions related to HIV. If you can help me with my concerns, I would greatly appreciate it. I purchased a depilatory cream online, and when I picked it up and opened it, I didn't pay special attention to whether it ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, according to the data from the Centers for Disease Control, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluids carries a ...[Read More] Concerns About HIV Infection from Contaminated Hair Removal Cream
Understanding Oral Discomfort and Hygiene Risks: A Doctor's Insight
Please ask your question? I have two questions for the doctor. First, when I drink cold water from a convenience store at the airport with my family, I feel a tingling sensation in my oral mucosa. I remember seeing news about someone adding something to the water, so my family is...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Before drinking cold water next time, you can wash your hands with some water or rinse your mouth to avoid excessive stimulation to the oral cavity. 2. Indeed, in public places, utensils may sometimes have unexpected contaminants if not properly maintained. To prevent such sit...[Read More] Understanding Oral Discomfort and Hygiene Risks: A Doctor's Insight
Can You Get HIV from a Haircut Accident? Understanding the Risks
Cutting hair to the point of bleeding? Hello, on March 24, I got a haircut and accidentally got cut on my neck by the scissors, causing a small piece of skin to come off and some dried black blood around it. Am I at risk of contracting HIV? If the person who used the scissors bef...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are three main modes of transmission for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual or e...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from a Haircut Accident? Understanding the Risks
Challenging Cases of Severe Hypokalemia: When Potassium Supplements Fail
Severe hypokalemia that cannot be corrected? My mother suffers from severe hypokalemia, with potassium levels ranging from about 1.7 to 1.9 when stable, and dropping to as low as 1.4 during severe episodes. She takes potassium tablets daily, with the hospital prescribing up to 60...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
You can visit the outpatient clinic for a detailed assessment and examination.[Read More] Challenging Cases of Severe Hypokalemia: When Potassium Supplements Fail
Understanding Insulin Resistance: Should You Worry About Your Levels?
Assessment of Insulin Resistance Issues Hello Doctor, I recently received my health check report, and my blood sugar values are as follows: *Fasting blood sugar: 90 mg/dL* *Fasting insulin: 11.9 μIU/mL* *Insulin resistance assessment: 2.6* The report indicates that the normal val...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
You can undergo a glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) test. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Insulin Resistance: Should You Worry About Your Levels?
Severe Mosquito Bites: Swelling, Numbness, and Seeking Solutions
Outdoor mosquito bites causing significant swelling and limb numbness? Hello, since I was 23 years old, I have been experiencing a problem for five years where mosquito bites in outdoor areas (such as parks or campuses with plants or ponds) cause intense itching and significant s...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. You may first consult the Department of Allergy and Immunology. If you are seeking assistance specifically for excessive allergic reactions to insects, including mosquitoes, you can visit the Allergy and Immunology Department at Taichung Veteran...[Read More] Severe Mosquito Bites: Swelling, Numbness, and Seeking Solutions