Understanding Risks of Bloodborne Diseases: Key Concerns and Clarifications
Regarding issue #201311? Regarding your inquiry about the risks of HIV and other bloodborne diseases: 1. There is a potential risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases if a wound or blood comes into direct contact with mucous membranes or broken skin. However, if the area around...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
1. If there is no contact with the skin where the fingers touched, theoretically, there is no risk of transmission (referring to the absence of blood, not just the lack of visible blood). 2. The risk is extremely low because the virus must travel from the bloodstain to the ointm...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Bloodborne Diseases: Key Concerns and Clarifications
Understanding Tonsil Inflammation: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Inquiry about tonsil issues? Hello Doctor: Three days ago, I suddenly noticed that my left tonsil became red and swollen. I went to a nearby internal medicine clinic where the doctor confirmed that it appeared to be inflamed. I visited again yesterday because I noticed a small sp...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Hello, if you're unsure whether it's tonsil stones, it's recommended to visit the ENT department at the hospital for further examination. If a CT scan is necessary, it will be arranged based on the physician's assessment.[Read More] Understanding Tonsil Inflammation: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Can Unwashed Clothes in a Bag Foster Bacteria and Mold Growth?
Mold growth on unwashed laundry? Hello Dr. Lin, I previously asked about the issue of bacteria and mold growth on clothing, and I appreciate your response. Regarding the clothing, I did not explain clearly; those clothes have been worn, and due to hiking and walking, I have sweat...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
The situation described is mold growth. In this case, the clothing should show signs of mold stains and have a musty odor. However, common methods for cleaning and disinfecting clothes, such as soaking in soapy water and sun exposure, are effective.[Read More] Can Unwashed Clothes in a Bag Foster Bacteria and Mold Growth?
Managing Chronic Post-Nasal Drip with Fever and Neck Swelling: When to Seek Emergency Care
Long-term post-nasal drip has recently worsened, presenting symptoms such as fever, neck swelling, and pharyngeal pain? I suspect I have an infection in my nose, which is causing post-nasal drip and resulting in coughing. This symptom has persisted for about six months (since Apr...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Hello, it is recommended to visit the ENT department of a major hospital today (10/9) to confirm what the neck mass is. It is most likely lymphadenopathy, which is just an inflammatory response, possibly caused by a new wave of tonsillitis starting from 10/6. This is separate fro...[Read More] Managing Chronic Post-Nasal Drip with Fever and Neck Swelling: When to Seek Emergency Care
Concerns About Bloodborne Diseases During Pediatric Urology Visits
Concerns and anxiety about medical consultations, worrying about blood and infectious diseases? Hello Doctor: Yesterday, I took my child to a pediatric clinic for a urology consultation. During the consultation, I noticed that the physician had a noticeable laceration at the base...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
1. Direct contact of wounds or blood with mucous membranes or broken skin may pose a risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases. However, if there is blood at the base of the fingernail and the finger touches intact skin, theoretically, there is a risk of transmission. 2. The surf...[Read More] Concerns About Bloodborne Diseases During Pediatric Urology Visits
Understanding HIV Testing: Antigen and Antibody Detection Timelines
HIV testing issues? Hello, I would like to inquire about the Abbott fourth-generation HIV Early test, which can detect both antigens and antibodies. The antigen can be detected one month after exposure; however, regarding the antibody testing, can it still yield results if it has...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the fourth-generation rapid test detects both antigens and antibodies. It is expected that a positive result could be detected in about two weeks, but individual responses vary; some people may take three to four months to test positive. (A positive result for either antig...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Antigen and Antibody Detection Timelines
Can You Contract HIV from Contaminated Surfaces? Common Concerns Addressed
Inquiry about HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) 1. If you sit on a surface contaminated with HIV-infected blood or bodily fluids, the risk of contracting HIV is extremely low. HIV is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, such as through open w...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Viruses can only survive outside the human body for a few minutes, so the risk of contracting HIV through indirect contact with bodily fluids in the environment is extremely low. Essentially, there is no need for concern.[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from Contaminated Surfaces? Common Concerns Addressed
Health Risks of Storing Clothes: Bacteria and Mold Concerns
Bacterial and fungal growth on clothing? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask about a bag of clothes that I discovered, which I had forgotten to wash for three years. These clothes are all from a trip before the pandemic (around early 2020) and each item was stored separately in a ...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Hello, unless it's very humid, clothes left out should not breed a large amount of bacteria or mold (dry clothing lacks the nutrients to support bacterial or mold growth). It is also recommended not to use bleach; instead, take the clothes out and expose them to sunlight for...[Read More] Health Risks of Storing Clothes: Bacteria and Mold Concerns
Concerns About Dental Hygiene: Anxiety Over Clinic Practices and Safety
Regarding dental care? Hello, Doctor. I'm sorry, but I'm feeling very anxious. Yesterday, I went to the clinic for a dental check-up and cleaning. The dentist who attended to me kept chatting with the clinic staff while examining me. During the cleaning, water splashed ...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Hello, to be honest, based on the scenario you described, there doesn't seem to be a significant risk of infection unless there is reasonable evidence to suspect that the clinic has reused disposable medical materials or has not properly sterilized them (which would not be b...[Read More] Concerns About Dental Hygiene: Anxiety Over Clinic Practices and Safety
Understanding Black Spots on the Tongue: Causes and When to Seek Help
Tongue issues? Hello Dr. Lin, I suddenly noticed a small black spot on the side of my tongue while brushing my teeth. I would like to ask what this could be. I don't remember having it this morning... Is it possible for a mole to appear suddenly? Do I need to go to the hospi...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Hello, it is recommended to see an otolaryngologist to find out what it is! The most common issue might be minor bleeding, which could appear as a bruise if it was accidentally scratched. However, it's safer to have a doctor confirm it. You can observe it for another week, a...[Read More] Understanding Black Spots on the Tongue: Causes and When to Seek Help
Are Pork and Beef Tapeworm Infections Rare in Taiwan Today?
Parasitic issues? Doctor, may I ask if infections from pork tapeworms and beef tapeworms are now quite rare in Taiwan? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
It is likely because we rarely have the opportunity to consume raw or undercooked pork and beef (tapeworms can also be killed by freezing), which is why such infection cases are not commonly encountered in Taiwan![Read More] Are Pork and Beef Tapeworm Infections Rare in Taiwan Today?
Understanding Red Flags on Your Health Check Report: Expert Advice
Inquiry about the red text on the health check-up report? Hello Dr. Lin: I just received my health check report and noticed some red flags that are causing me a lot of concern. I would like to ask if there are any of these red flags that can be improved through daily habits, such...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the MCH value is primarily for reference; any issues related to anemia should be assessed based on hemoglobin (Hb) levels. Urinary ketones may test positive after prolonged fasting, and the presence of leukocyte esterase in urine suggests a possible urinary tract inflammat...[Read More] Understanding Red Flags on Your Health Check Report: Expert Advice
Concerns About Eating Food Contaminated with Cockroaches: What to Do?
Eating food that contains cockroaches? 1. I found a small dead cockroach in my bowl while having breakfast. I'm not sure if it was crushed by the food or scalded by the freshly cooked food. At that moment, I didn't think much of it and continued eating. Halfway through,...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
1. Theoretically, there is a risk of transmission, but in practice, the number of human infection cases domestically is quite low, and the risk of transmission from a single exposure is very low. 2. The roundworm typically resides in locations such as the oral cavity and esopha...[Read More] Concerns About Eating Food Contaminated with Cockroaches: What to Do?
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Unknown Blood Exposure
Risk of HIV Infection Hello Dr. Lin, today after washing my clothes, I noticed a few small dried blood stains on them while hanging them out to dry. I absentmindedly picked at them, but I couldn't confirm if the blood was mine, as I hadn't noticed it before. Later, I we...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Hello, viruses die quickly outside the human body and are unlikely to remain on dried blood stains. It is even more difficult for them to be transmitted by touching your hands, then touching a tissue, and subsequently coming into contact with the urethra. There is no need to worr...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Unknown Blood Exposure
Understanding Cellulitis: Managing Pain and Mobility Issues
Unable to walk after contracting cellulitis? Three days ago, I was diagnosed with an infection in my left leg. I have been taking my medication regularly, but I have been experiencing fever almost continuously after taking the medication. Additionally, standing up causes unbearab...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Hello, if you are still experiencing a fever three days after starting antibiotics, it usually indicates that the cellulitis has not been adequately controlled. It is advisable to return for a follow-up or consult an infectious disease specialist for evaluation. If the fever has ...[Read More] Understanding Cellulitis: Managing Pain and Mobility Issues
Needle Injury Concerns: Risk of Infection and What to Do Next
Needle stick injury and infection concerns? Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about something. Today, I went to buy a sewing needle for leather shoes (it's a bit thicker than a regular needle, and the tip is sharpened into a triangular shape). The male shop owner, who l...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Hello, needle stick injuries typically occur shortly after blood is drawn, as the needle may still harbor viable viruses that pose a potential risk of transmission. If the injury occurs two hours later, the likelihood of viable viruses remaining is quite low, and the risk of tran...[Read More] Needle Injury Concerns: Risk of Infection and What to Do Next
Assessing Infection Risks from Accidental Blood Exposure in Clinical Settings
Infection issues Hello, doctor. I am currently interning, and someone placed an alcohol swab contaminated with a patient's blood on the table. While I was reaching for gloves, my finger accidentally touched it. I have a habit of picking at my thumb, and I'm not sure if ...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
Hello, viruses die quickly outside the human body, so the risk of indirect contact (where the virus transfers from blood to an alcohol swab and then enters your wound) is quite low. Furthermore, alcohol has a strong virucidal effect, so in the case of a single incident, I believe...[Read More] Assessing Infection Risks from Accidental Blood Exposure in Clinical Settings
Understanding HIV Risks: Common Questions and Concerns Addressed
I'm sorry, but I need more context or content to provide a translation? 1. I understand that the HIV virus dies quickly outside the human body. However, as a cashier, if I touched a customer's wound and then rubbed my eyes, would there still be a risk of HIV infection d...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
1. The risk can only be described as negligible; if I say it's less than one in ten thousand, you might think that's quite high. 2. Blood on the surface is indeed considered external; the virus dies quickly. 3. There is a risk of transmitting infectious diseases whe...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks: Common Questions and Concerns Addressed
Concerns About Parasite Infection from Contact with Stray Cat Waste
Parasitic infection Hello, doctor. I accidentally came into contact with the vomit of a stray cat I care for, and then I unintentionally ingested some food that had touched it. Could this lead to an infection with the pork tapeworm? I have seen this stray cat eating raw pork, so ...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
No, pork tapeworms generally do not appear in cat vomit. The likelihood of a cat acquiring parasites from a single ingestion of something from its gastrointestinal tract is also very low. Preventive medication or special monitoring is not recommended.[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection from Contact with Stray Cat Waste
Risk of HIV Infection from Blood Splashing in the Eye: What You Need to Know
Blood splattered into the eyes? Hello doctor, my colleague has a tattoo on his hand, and after getting it done, the tattooed area has been bleeding. Today, while I was crouching to pick something up, my colleague was standing in front of me and something splashed into my eye. If ...
Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine
I can't say there are no risks, but the overall risk should be lower than being struck by lightning while walking on the street (probably less than one in ten thousand). It can only be said that professional assessments do not consider such a negligible risk worth the expens...[Read More] Risk of HIV Infection from Blood Splashing in the Eye: What You Need to Know