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 Internal Medicine
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
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 Internal Medicine
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 Internal Medicine
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
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 Internal Medicine
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?
Understanding Parasite Concerns and Blood Test Results in Internal Medicine
Continuation #188061 Suspected Parasites and Blood Test Values Thank you, doctor, for your response. I have a few more questions. In your previous answer regarding point 2, you mentioned that "it could take months to years." Therefore, can we basically rule out that the...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, 1. Based on your description, the likelihood of a parasitic infection seems very low. 2. Yes, headaches can indeed be a post-acute sequela of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), but they may also be caused by other factors such as high stress, insufficient sleep, or significan...[Read More] Understanding Parasite Concerns and Blood Test Results in Internal Medicine
Concerns About Parasites and Blood Test Results After Undercooked Meat
Suspected parasitic infection and blood test values? Hello, on October 1st, I consumed a steak that was not cooked to the required doneness (I requested medium, but some parts were rare to medium-rare). I am concerned about parasites (specifically, tapeworms) and have since been ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, 1. The pork tapeworm can also be killed by freezing. 2. Each individual's condition varies significantly, ranging from a few months to several years. 3. Based on your clinical symptoms and blood test results, it currently does not appear to be a parasitic infection. T...[Read More] Concerns About Parasites and Blood Test Results After Undercooked Meat
Do Bubbles in Urine Indicate Proteinuria? Understanding Your Kidney Health
If there is proteinuria, will there be bubbles every time you urinate? Hello, doctor. After my previous health check-up, my urine protein level was reported as (+/-)↑. The doctor mentioned that this value is quite common and advised me not to worry too much unless I wanted to pur...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the presence of bubbles in urine does not necessarily indicate proteinuria. For instance, when urine is more diluted, it may be harder to see bubbles. If you are still very concerned, you can purchase a urine protein test strip from a medical supply store, which would prov...[Read More] Do Bubbles in Urine Indicate Proteinuria? Understanding Your Kidney Health
Understanding Abnormal Urine Sediment Test Results: What You Need to Know
Abnormal urine sediment examination? Dear Doctor, Hello. I was hospitalized due to gastroenteritis and underwent an abdominal ultrasound. The gastroenterologist mentioned that I have chronic changes in my kidneys (irregular surface). I then scheduled an appointment with a nephro...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, chronic changes in the kidneys usually require accompanying blood tests to assess kidney function, such as BUN and creatinine levels, to check for abnormalities. If the blood tests are normal, observation is typically sufficient. As for urine sediment, it usually does not ...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urine Sediment Test Results: What You Need to Know
Managing Increased Appetite and Blood Sugar Concerns After Stress
Diabetes, excessive eating? Hello Doctor, I experienced autonomic nervous system dysfunction a while ago, which caused a loss of appetite. Now that my symptoms have improved, I find myself eating a lot. Today, I skipped breakfast, had a bowl of fried chicken rice for lunch, half ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, diabetes is usually caused by a combination of long-term dietary habits, reduced physical activity, and genetics. It is not typically caused by short-term dietary changes. The main concern with short-term overeating is actually obesity. It is recommended to practice dietar...[Read More] Managing Increased Appetite and Blood Sugar Concerns After Stress
Can STDs Spread Through Shared Laundry? Understanding the Risks
Questions about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) If a person with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) has their clothing contaminated with bodily fluids such as semen, and these clothes are washed together with others in a washing machine using a mild detergent without b...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, you mentioned that the situation does not pose a risk of sexually transmitted infections, including syphilis, HIV, or genital warts, and that they are unlikely to be transmitted. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can STDs Spread Through Shared Laundry? Understanding the Risks
Understanding Urine Test Results: What Do Your Numbers Mean?
Urine test inquiry? Hello Doctor, I recently had a physical examination and I don't quite understand the following test results, so I would like to ask you: 1. Test Name: Creatinine (CRE) Result: 203.1 mg/dL 2. Microalbumin (Immunoturbidimetric Method) Result: 203.1 mg/dL...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, these three values should be from a urinalysis, right? The presence of these three values suggests that you may have had proteinuria previously. The normal ranges for these values can vary depending on the testing methods used by different hospitals, so your report should ...[Read More] Understanding Urine Test Results: What Do Your Numbers Mean?
Understanding Loss of Appetite: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Loss of appetite I have been experiencing a loss of appetite for two weeks. It started with nausea due to lack of sleep, and since then, I have not felt hungry at all, even having a constant sensation of fullness. My weight has dropped from 43 kg to 40 kg, and my BMI has fallen t...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, insufficient sleep can indeed affect appetite. As for whether there are issues with the liver or other organs, such as the thyroid, a detailed examination may be necessary to determine that. It is recommended to visit a family medicine clinic for a thorough evaluation. Tha...[Read More] Understanding Loss of Appetite: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Understanding Abdominal Pain When Contracting Your Stomach Muscles
Experiencing abdominal pain when straining? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about a situation I'm experiencing. When I exert myself and tighten my abdomen, I feel a bit of pain in my abdominal area, but I don't feel anything when I'm not straining (the pain ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the appendix is located in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen, and if it is appendicitis, it typically hurts even without straining the abdomen. The abdominal pain you mentioned is most likely due to a muscle strain. Have you recently engaged in any abdominal-related ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain When Contracting Your Stomach Muscles
Consulting a Doctor: Understanding Your Blood Test Results
Consult a doctor regarding examination issues? Doctor, I would like to ask if this is really not a concern? Although the family medicine doctor told me today that it’s okay and not to worry too much. These two red numbers are Lymphocyte 54.7% and Neutrophil Seg. However, the doct...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, regarding the blood cell part, it is indeed as your physician mentioned. If the white blood cell count is normal, the neutrophils and lymphocytes are just a matter of ratio and usually do not require concern. As for the cholesterol levels, the elevation is likely due to a ...[Read More] Consulting a Doctor: Understanding Your Blood Test Results
Relieving Left Shoulder, Neck, and Arm Pain After Late Nights
Left shoulder, neck, and arm pain? Hello, doctor. For the past five days, I have mostly been sleeping after 3:00 AM. After drinking alcohol yesterday, I started to feel soreness in my left arm and shoulder after 4:00 AM, which sometimes extends to my neck. I would like to know ho...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, after drinking, it is common to experience lactic acid accumulation, and due to posture issues, it is very easy to have the situation you described. I recommend applying a hot compress and using analgesic ointment or pain relief patches to alleviate the discomfort. When sl...[Read More] Relieving Left Shoulder, Neck, and Arm Pain After Late Nights
Understanding Green Particles in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Bowel issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about green particles in my stool. The color of the stool is normal, but I noticed a single green particle in it, and I haven't eaten any green foods. What could this be? Thank you.
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, based on your description, there are two possible explanations. First, it is possible that the food you consumed has metabolized into green particles. Second, you may have ingested something else, such as medication. However, the presence of green particles does not necess...[Read More] Understanding Green Particles in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Can You Contract HIV from Blood or Saliva Contact Without Open Wounds?
HIV infection Hello doctor, I have bruising on my hand but no external injury. If I come into contact with a cup containing the blood of an HIV-positive patient or saliva, can I contract HIV?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the situation you mentioned does not lead to contracting HIV. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from Blood or Saliva Contact Without Open Wounds?
Understanding COVID-19 Diagnosis and Isolation: Key Questions Answered
Some issues related to COVID-19 diagnosis? I'm sorry, but I don't know which specialty to ask. On the afternoon of October 14th, I suddenly felt a strong urge to cough, and it was severe. Even after getting home from work that night, I took a rapid test which came back ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, 1. It is advisable to maintain a proper distance for the time being, as there may still be a low viral load present. 2. Yes, that's correct. When the viral load is low, there is a possibility of false negatives. 3. No, currently other diseases do not cause false p...[Read More] Understanding COVID-19 Diagnosis and Isolation: Key Questions Answered
Unexplained Itching Sensation: Causes and Remedies for Discomfort
The sensation of itchiness inside the body is uncomfortable? Dear Dr. Hong, This is the medication I was taking: Ibuprofen, OxyBroncolin, Carimycin (250), Incida, Medicon (30), brompheniramine, and COX-2 inhibitors. However, I have stopped taking the medication for almost 48 ho...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the medication you are taking contains Ibuprofen, which has a high likelihood of causing allergic reactions. It is recommended to stop taking it immediately. Other medications may also cause allergic reactions in a small number of people. If you are only experiencing itchi...[Read More] Unexplained Itching Sensation: Causes and Remedies for Discomfort
Understanding the Connection Between Lung Nodules and Sputum Production
Pulmonary nodules and sputum? In early August of this year, a CT scan revealed a 1.5 cm ground-glass lung nodule in the right lung. Since early October, I have been experiencing a daily production of white phlegm from my throat, and now in late October, the amount of phlegm has i...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, could you please clarify what the possible causes of the nodules identified in your CT scan might be? Possible causes include previous pneumonia, tuberculosis, fibrosis, or tumors. Typically, a radiologist will provide a report with an initial assessment of the findings. I...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Lung Nodules and Sputum Production