Monkey Scratch Injury: What You Need to Know About Rabies and Tetanus
Injured by a monkey bite? Hello Doctor, I was attacked by a wild monkey in Shoushan, Kaohsiung on December 29, resulting in scratches. The wounds are small; I have two red marks on my shoulder without open wounds but with mild pain, and I suspect I may have a scrape on the back o...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Although Taiwan is currently considered a rabies-endemic area, the outbreak is limited to wild animals such as ferrets and civets, and the likelihood of monkeys in Taiwan contracting rabies is very low. 2. Most injuries from monkey bites primarily require a tetanus vacc...[Read More] Monkey Scratch Injury: What You Need to Know About Rabies and Tetanus
Understanding Blood Pressure: Is My Reading Considered Hypertension?
Blood pressure issues? Hello Doctor, I recently started monitoring my blood pressure. Previously, when I measured it at the hospital, I was unsure if it was due to anxiety, as it would often reach 140/79 or even above 150. After a few days of regular exercise, I measured it at ho...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The definition of normal blood pressure is a systolic pressure of less than or equal to 120 and a diastolic pressure of less than or equal to 80. The definition of hypertension is a systolic pressure of greater than or equal to 140 or a diastolic pressure of greater than o...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure: Is My Reading Considered Hypertension?
Understanding Blood Pressure and Pulse Pressure Differences: A Guide
Issues related to blood pressure and pulse pressure? Hello Doctor, I have recently started to manage my blood pressure. My systolic pressure fluctuates between 121 and 136, rarely exceeding 140, but my diastolic pressure is often below 70. I frequently measure readings like 130/6...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: If your blood pressure is mostly 130/60, it indicates that your systolic and diastolic pressures have not yet reached the hypertension standard (140/90). The systolic pressure is at most in the prehypertension range (120-140), so you shouldn't be too concerned about t...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure and Pulse Pressure Differences: A Guide
Concerns About Blood Draw Cotton: Should You Worry About Contamination?
Regarding blood collection cotton? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask, when I went to the hospital for a blood draw this morning, the person who drew my blood placed a cotton ball on the wound, and I applied pressure for 10 minutes. I only removed it in the afternoon, and when I ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The small black stain next to your wound is likely the result of blood from the wound oxidizing upon exposure to air. There's no need to worry; it is not from someone else's use.[Read More] Concerns About Blood Draw Cotton: Should You Worry About Contamination?
Understanding Blood Pressure: Is Your Reading a Cause for Concern?
Blood pressure issues? Hello Doctor, I recently started monitoring my blood pressure. Previously, when I measured it at the hospital, I was unsure if it was due to anxiety, as it would reach 140/79 or even above 150. After a few days of regular exercise, I measured it at home and...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The definition of normal blood pressure is a systolic pressure of less than or equal to 120 and a diastolic pressure of less than or equal to 80. The definition of hypertension is a systolic pressure of greater than or equal to 140 or a diastolic pressure of greater than o...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure: Is Your Reading a Cause for Concern?
Understanding High Blood Pressure: Why Is Systolic High but Diastolic Normal?
Hypertension issues Hello doctor, I have had high blood pressure issues for about four years, starting when I was in high school, but I didn't pay much attention to it at that time. Recently, I have started to take it more seriously. Every time I go to the hospital, my blood...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The definition of hypertension is a systolic blood pressure of 140 mmHg or higher, or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mmHg or higher. If you only have elevated systolic blood pressure, it may be related to vascular stiffness. Additionally, blood pressure can be influenced...[Read More] Understanding High Blood Pressure: Why Is Systolic High but Diastolic Normal?
Can UV Lights and Ozone Kill COVID-19? N95 Mask Reuse Tips
Regarding epidemic prevention? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you a couple of questions. 1. Can ultraviolet (UV) lamps and the ozone they produce eliminate the coronavirus? 2. I use an N95 mask in crowded places, but I would like to reuse it multiple times. When I get home...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Ultraviolet (UV) light can kill the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It has previously been used for air disinfection in large spaces such as schools, hospitals, and hotels. Ozone can also kill the SARS-CoV-2 virus, but the concentration needs to be sufficient. The ozone produced by t...[Read More] Can UV Lights and Ozone Kill COVID-19? N95 Mask Reuse Tips
Is 5 Hours of Sleep Enough? Understanding Sleep Needs and Health
The relationship between sleep deprivation and sleep duration? It is currently widely believed that a sleep duration of 7 to 8 hours at night is the healthiest; however, there is significant individual variation. Is it necessary to sleep a full 7 hours to be considered healthy? I...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: It is generally recommended that adults (18 years and older) get more than 7 hours of sleep at night. However, since you do not feel tired during the day, it indicates that your sleep quality is likely adequate. Additionally, your habit of taking a midday nap may also affe...[Read More] Is 5 Hours of Sleep Enough? Understanding Sleep Needs and Health
COVID-19 Vaccination Guidance for Dining Out: What You Need to Know
Regarding COVID-19? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask, I received my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (AstraZeneca) on September 10, 2021, my second dose (BNT) on November 24, 2021, and my booster dose (BNT) on March 1, 2022. I would like to know if I can go out to eat normall...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: There are actually no regulations on which vaccine you must receive in order to dine out normally. Currently, we are adopting a lifestyle that coexists with the virus. If you are concerned, it is advisable to wear a mask as much as possible. Regarding COVID-19, it is recom...[Read More] COVID-19 Vaccination Guidance for Dining Out: What You Need to Know
Understanding Drug Interactions: Duloxetine and NSAIDs Safety
Drug interactions I have been taking duloxetine (Cymbalta) daily for nerve pain. Recently, I have a cold and ear pain and would like to take NSAIDs, but I read online that they should not be taken together. Should I avoid taking them for the entire day, or is there a specific tim...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Taking Duloxetine and NSAIDs together may increase the risk of bleeding, with gastrointestinal bleeding and skin bruising being more common, especially in patients who are older or have a history of gastrointestinal ulcers or other chronic conditions (such as liver or kidn...[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Duloxetine and NSAIDs Safety
Accidental Ink Paste Ingestion: Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Ingestion of ink paste? Hello doctor, I need to use ink paste tonight for some reason. I didn't notice that I had some on my hands and started eating. Halfway through, I realized that I might have accidentally ingested a small amount along with the food. I would like to ask ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: If only a small amount of ink was ingested, there is actually no need to worry too much. It is recommended to monitor for any gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms, and if any physical discomfort occurs, seek medical attention.[Read More] Accidental Ink Paste Ingestion: Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Understanding Arm Pain After Pneumococcal Vaccine: When to Seek Help
Soreness in the upper arm occurred one week after receiving the pneumococcal vaccine? When raising the upper arm, there is a noticeable muscle soreness, and the arm feels slightly swollen. There is no pain when the arm is lowered, and there is no pain when moving the lower arm. T...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The arm soreness caused by vaccine injection typically resolves within three days. Since your arm pain has persisted for almost a week, along with a mild fever, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation and treatment. Given your described symptoms, there is concern about ...[Read More] Understanding Arm Pain After Pneumococcal Vaccine: When to Seek Help
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings: Key Questions Answered by a Family Physician
Questions about measuring blood pressure? Hello Dr. Lin, Today, when I measured my blood pressure, I found that the first reading showed elevated systolic and diastolic values, but subsequent measurements were significantly lower. I have three blood pressure monitors at home, an...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Blood pressure is variable and can be influenced by physical activity, eating, emotions, etc. Therefore, it is generally recommended to measure blood pressure when the body and mind are in a calm state. Based on your two measurements, it seems that the second measuremen...[Read More] Understanding Blood Pressure Readings: Key Questions Answered by a Family Physician
Understanding Chronic Constipation: Effective Solutions and Concerns
Constipation issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my constipation issue. I have been struggling with constipation since I was a child (I had enemas when I was very young). After entering college, I started taking enzymes to maintain regular bowel movements, going to t...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Regarding your current constipation situation, if dietary adjustments are not effective, you may consider using medication as an adjunct. While laxatives can potentially lead to dependency, short-term use should be acceptable. It is recommended to take a laxative for the n...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Constipation: Effective Solutions and Concerns
Understanding Skin Changes and Muscle Twitches: When to Seek Medical Advice
Medical issues Hello, doctor. I recently noticed that I suddenly developed several moles on my body (not too many, but within a short period, I have developed about 5-10 moles, mostly on my upper body and arms). Is this normal? Thank you. Additionally, I have been experiencing so...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. The sudden appearance of many moles on your body is mostly related to genetic factors, but it may also be associated with sun exposure, hormonal changes, or a decline in immune function. It is advisable to monitor the characteristics of the moles for any changes. If y...[Read More] Understanding Skin Changes and Muscle Twitches: When to Seek Medical Advice
Do Babies Need Special Cleaning After Contact with Makeup?
Skin issues Hello Doctor, 1. If a baby has physical contact with someone who is wearing makeup or plays with cosmetics, should special cleaning be done? 2. If a baby touches items that have been handled by someone wearing makeup or shares items with them, should they remove th...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. If you do not have an allergy to cosmetics or if the amount of cosmetics you come into contact with is minimal, there is no need for special cleansing. 2. If it is just simple contact, there is generally no need for special makeup removal or cleansing. 3. In cases of me...[Read More] Do Babies Need Special Cleaning After Contact with Makeup?
Concerns About Ingesting Hand Soap: Should You Worry?
Please ask your question, and I'll do my best to assist you? Hello Dr. Lin, today when I used a foaming hand wash, I accidentally rinsed my mouth with it. I'm not sure if any of it actually entered my mouth, but I did smell the bubbles. Although I didn't swallow th...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Ingesting hand soap usually involves a small amount, which generally has minimal impact on the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. There should not be any issues related to poisoning or alkaline burns. It is recommended to drink plenty of water and then monitor for any...[Read More] Concerns About Ingesting Hand Soap: Should You Worry?
Is Tetanus Infection a Concern After a Minor Cut?
Possible tetanus infection Hello, Doctor. About two weeks ago, I had a cut approximately 3 centimeters long and less than 2 millimeters deep. Recently, the wound has healed, and there are no visible signs of injury. However, the cutting instrument was not very clean (it had a bit...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Any wound has the potential to become infected with tetanus, but the likelihood varies. Since you were vaccinated against tetanus in childhood and considering the description of your wound, the risk of tetanus infection should be very low. 2. If the back muscle pain is ...[Read More] Is Tetanus Infection a Concern After a Minor Cut?
Is Annual Flu Vaccination Necessary for Your Health?
Is it necessary to get the flu vaccine every year? Hello Doctor: My boyfriend is 36 years old and works as an engineer in a tech company. The company offers a benefit where employees can register for a limited number of free flu vaccinations (Fluarix Tetra) each year. He has been...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Vaccines do not work by using the virus against itself; rather, they stimulate the body to develop immunity against pathogens, reducing the risk of infection and preventing severe illness following infection. 2. The influenza vaccine has been administered for over a dec...[Read More] Is Annual Flu Vaccination Necessary for Your Health?
Understanding Menstrual-Related Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Menstrual cramps may cause lower back pain, but it's uncertain if they are directly related? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing pain in my right lower back for about three days. Since it coincides with my menstrual period, I initially thought it was just the usual menstr...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Given your age and the description of your lower back pain accompanied by discomfort in your thigh, the following issues should be considered: 1. Herniated Disc: This typically worsens with sitting and bending forward, while lying down or lying flat may relieve the pain. I...[Read More] Understanding Menstrual-Related Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Help