Is My Cut Risky for Tetanus? Understanding Wound Care and Vaccination
Could it be tetanus? Hello Doctor, I accidentally cut my palm with a utility knife while working on the carpet yesterday at 2 PM. There was some dust, paint debris, and fibers from the carpet on it. I ended up with a wound about 1.5 cm long. At the time, I only had alcohol availa...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, it is actually quite difficult to determine the likelihood of tetanus. If you are concerned, you can receive a tetanus vaccine at a nearby medical facility. It is still effective even if administered more than 48 hours after the injury.[Read More] Is My Cut Risky for Tetanus? Understanding Wound Care and Vaccination
Is This Lump Near My Anus Caused by an Anal Fistula?
Is this an external lump caused by an anal fistula? Hello doctor, recently I have developed a lump in the upper right area of the anal cleft. Initially, the lump felt like a small ball and was not visible on the surface. After two months, it suddenly grew larger and is painful wh...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, it would be better to visit a nearby surgical clinic or hospital outpatient department for a more accurate assessment.[Read More] Is This Lump Near My Anus Caused by an Anal Fistula?
Understanding Breast Nipple Pain and Lumps: What You Need to Know
Nipple lump Hello, Doctor. Since the day before yesterday, I've been feeling a bit of pain when touching my left nipple, and it feels like there is a lump compared to the right side. Today, I visited a general surgeon who arranged for me to have an ultrasound in radiology. T...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, there are two main reasons for enlarged axillary lymph nodes: benign or malignant. The more common benign causes include inflammation or, in some individuals, a congenital predisposition to larger lymph nodes. Malignant causes may include lymphoma or other malignant tumors...[Read More] Understanding Breast Nipple Pain and Lumps: What You Need to Know
Should You See a Doctor for Painful Lump Near the Prostate?
Prostate tumor If there is a painful lump on one side between the penis and the prostate, similar in size to a pimple, it is advisable to seek medical attention. This could potentially be a sign of various conditions, including but not limited to, a sebaceous cyst, lymphangitis, ...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, it would be more accurate to consult a physician in person so they can assess your condition directly.[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for Painful Lump Near the Prostate?
Understanding Black Toenails: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Nail (or nail bed) discoloration to black? Hello, doctor. I need your help because I'm not sure which specialty to consult. A couple of days ago, I noticed that my left big toe nail has a dark spot, but I didn't pay much attention to it at first, thinking it was just in...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, this sounds less like diabetic foot. If the black spot gradually moves forward with the growth of the nail, it may indicate a bruise. However, if the black spot is fixed in position and continues to enlarge, it is advisable to seek medical attention for a physician to exam...[Read More] Understanding Black Toenails: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Should You Seek Medical Attention for an Abdominal Lump?
Abdominal mass At the beginning of February, shortly after my menstrual period, I noticed a hard lump in my lower abdomen (relative to the position of the uterus). After discovering it, I observed it and attempted to squeeze it. However, I applied too much pressure and caused a s...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, it is recommended to seek medical attention nearby and have a physician evaluate you.[Read More] Should You Seek Medical Attention for an Abdominal Lump?
Do You Need Tetanus Shots for Minor Scrapes? Infection Risks Explained
Regarding the issue of abrasions? A few days ago, I had a minor accident on the road. At the time, I didn't pay much attention to it, but when I got home that night, I noticed a small superficial abrasion, which has mostly healed now. I would like to ask the doctor if this t...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, the tetanus bacteria are usually transmitted through puncture wounds contaminated by soil, dust, or animal and human feces. It can also enter through lacerations, burns, and general wounds. It sounds like your wound is healing. Generally, the incubation period for tetanus ...[Read More] Do You Need Tetanus Shots for Minor Scrapes? Infection Risks Explained
Understanding Minor Knee Wounds: When to Seek Medical Attention
Wound issues Hello doctor, my brother has a small abrasion on his knee. The surrounding area is a bit red and warm, but it hasn't swollen, and the wound only hurts when he walks. Is this normal? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, after a skin defect injury, slight redness around the area is actually a normal inflammatory response. Inflammation is necessary to attract cells for regeneration. However, if you experience increasing redness, swelling, heat, and pain, it may resemble cellulitis. If you a...[Read More] Understanding Minor Knee Wounds: When to Seek Medical Attention
Do You Need a Tetanus Shot After a Minor Scrape from a Fall?
Tetanus from abrasions Yesterday, my brother fell off his bike while wearing long pants. He got some abrasions through the fabric, but it has been over 24 hours and there are no issues at the moment. About 3 to 4 years ago, he also went to the emergency room due to a car accident...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, the vaccine you received was likely the tetanus vaccine, which typically provides protection for about five years with a single dose, so there is usually no need for a booster shot.[Read More] Do You Need a Tetanus Shot After a Minor Scrape from a Fall?
Managing Cyst Wound Care: Can You Use Artificial Skin?
Management of cyst wounds Hello, doctor. Thank you for your response. I would like to ask if it is okay to apply artificial skin over the wound after using povidone-iodine (it still feels a bit stinging now, but there is no pus or drainage). I am using a better adhesive bandage, ...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, actually, applying artificial skin can also leave residual adhesive. Moreover, the wound from a sebaceous cyst is difficult to close completely because there is still an infectious component inside, making it hard for the wound to fully heal.[Read More] Managing Cyst Wound Care: Can You Use Artificial Skin?
How to Properly Care for a Ruptured Cyst: Disinfection and Treatment Tips
Sebaceous cyst rupture Hello doctor, I recently had a sebaceous cyst that ruptured on its own, releasing a foul-smelling keratin. Now there is a wound left. How should I disinfect it? Should I use saline solution followed by iodine? Do I need to cover it to avoid contact with the...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, you can clean the wound with saline solution and then apply antibiotic ointment or povidone-iodine. However, for a cyst, it is recommended to undergo a minor surgical procedure because there is a membrane inside, and if that membrane is not removed, the cyst will not heal....[Read More] How to Properly Care for a Ruptured Cyst: Disinfection and Treatment Tips
Understanding Increased Gas and Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes
Abdominal bloating with increased flatulence? In the past week, I've noticed an increase in flatulence, along with a feeling of bloating in the left abdomen, specifically around the area to the left of the navel. My bowel movements are regular, with no constipation, but I&#x...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, sometimes bloating and increased gas may be related to recent lifestyle or dietary stress. You can observe it for another week to see if it improves. Generally, fresh blood in the stool at your age is most commonly caused by hemorrhoids or anal fissures, but it is still re...[Read More] Understanding Increased Gas and Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes
Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test After Clear Colonoscopy: What to Do?
Seven months after a normal colonoscopy... fecal occult blood test positive? Hello Dr. Chen, 1. As mentioned, the colonoscopy on April 9 was normal, but the fecal occult blood test on November 17 was positive. 2. My family medicine physician advised me to undergo another colon...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, the majority of colonoscopies are performed personally by the attending physician, unless the physician is unavailable, in which case another physician may assist. Regarding colonoscopy, the chance of missing a significant malignant tumor is quite low. However, there is a ...[Read More] Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test After Clear Colonoscopy: What to Do?
Effective Management of Nail Injuries: A Guide for Patients
Nail trauma management issues? Hello doctor, I just injured my big toe nail by hitting it against something, causing it to crack and bleed (the crack is about 0.9 cm long and 0.3 cm wide at the edge, but I trimmed about 0.6 cm long and 0.3 cm wide, with the cracked portion accoun...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, you are doing well! The dark area will generally be absorbed on its own over time. Please continue to change the dressing, and if you have any other issues, feel free to seek medical attention nearby.[Read More] Effective Management of Nail Injuries: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Arm Pain After Blood Draw: Causes and Solutions
Arm issues Hello doctor, about a month and a half ago, I had a blood draw done on the inner side of my elbow. Although there are no visible bruises now and everything seems to have healed, I still feel pain in the surrounding area when I apply light pressure. What could be the ca...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, the presence of bruising indicates that the soft tissue in that area has been injured. Although it has been a month and a half and it hasn't fully healed, this is relatively longer than usual. You can continue to observe for another two weeks and apply heat to the aff...[Read More] Understanding Arm Pain After Blood Draw: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Fatigue: Could It Be a Sign of Brain Tumors?
Is there a tumor in the brain? I have been feeling very fatigued lately. Recently, I was worried about being ill, so I went to the hospital for a check-up and found out that there was nothing seriously wrong. However, after returning home, I felt unusually tired and a bit dizzy. ...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, fatigue is not solely an issue related to the brain; it can also be related to the entire body. It may simply be caused by recent dietary habits, sleep patterns, or stress. If fatigue persists, it is advisable to consult a physician for an evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Fatigue: Could It Be a Sign of Brain Tumors?
Understanding Sudden Painful Skin Swellings: Possible Causes and Solutions
Skin swelling and pain? There is suddenly a lump under the chest that resembles a mosquito bite; it is not itchy but is painful. It appeared suddenly before taking a shower that day. Could this be a sebaceous cyst?
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, I'm not sure if there are any abnormalities in appearance. It may still be necessary to visit the outpatient clinic for a general physical examination or an ultrasound to determine whether it is a solid tumor or a cyst.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Painful Skin Swellings: Possible Causes and Solutions
Recovery Tips for Nail Injuries: When Can You Get It Wet?
Nail trauma I stubbed my toe on a table last Thursday, and my toenail was partially lifted, only attached at the back. The doctor pressed my nail back down and applied medication. How long will it take before I can get it wet? Will the nail grow back? Can I use saline solution to...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
1. It is recommended to wait at least two to three weeks before coming into contact with water. If daily wound disinfection is necessary, you can use a clean small basin filled with saline solution and water-soluble povidone-iodine, soaking for ten minutes each day. 2. It sound...[Read More] Recovery Tips for Nail Injuries: When Can You Get It Wet?
Post-Surgery Care for Cysts: Stitch Removal and Scar Management
Inguinal sebaceous cyst On September 3rd, I underwent excision surgery for a lipoma located in the groin area. The excised tissue was approximately the size of 2/5 of a finger segment, and the wound length was about 1 and 1/4 finger segments. The surgeon advised me to return for ...
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello: 1. It's okay if the stitches are removed later; there is no fixed time for stitch removal. However, it is generally based on how well the wound has healed before the stitches are taken out. 2. It is possible that the wound may appear raised after the stitches are remo...[Read More] Post-Surgery Care for Cysts: Stitch Removal and Scar Management
Can Inguinal Hernia Surgery and Pain-Free Endoscopy Be Done Together?
Inguinal hernia surgery Can the inguinal hernia surgery and painless gastrointestinal endoscopy be performed together under anesthesia?
Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, hernia surgery cannot generally be performed simultaneously with a painless gastroscopy and colonoscopy.[Read More] Can Inguinal Hernia Surgery and Pain-Free Endoscopy Be Done Together?