Rabies Concerns: What to Do After a Stray Cat Scratch
Rabies Issues Hello, doctor. There is a stray cat that was drooling, meowing loudly, and acting erratically yesterday, unable to stay still and moving around a lot. Today, it hasn't shown up at all (it used to come out on time for meals and was never aggressive). While obser...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Symptoms of rabies infection in cats include agitation, excessive salivation, photophobia, and hiding in dark places, among others. Typically, symptoms appear 2 to 4 days before the onset of paralysis and death. Although your stray cat exhibits similar symptoms, rabie...[Read More] Rabies Concerns: What to Do After a Stray Cat Scratch
Understanding Asymmetrical Skin Changes: Common Concerns in Family Medicine
Inquiry Consultation Dear Dr. Lin, I have two questions for you: Q1. I have noticed for over a decade that the skin in my right armpit appears slightly more protruded than in my left armpit, giving the visual impression that the muscles in my right armpit are larger. This condi...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Although your right axilla appears more prominent than your left, if you haven't felt any lumps and this has persisted for over ten years, it is likely not a serious issue. It may be related to the increased muscle development in your right chest, right back, and r...[Read More] Understanding Asymmetrical Skin Changes: Common Concerns in Family Medicine
Understanding Urinalysis Results: When to Consult a Specialist
Urinalysis Hello, during a recent routine check-up, several urine test results were found to be above the normal range: - Leukocytes: (++), 100/uL - Occult Blood: (++), 50/uL - RBC: 6-9 HPF (reference value: 0-5) - WBC: 20-29 HPF (reference value: 0-5) - Crystals: Ammonium urat...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The results of your urine test do suggest a possible urinary tract infection; however, since you do not have symptoms such as fever, painful urination, lower abdominal pain, or back pain, it is advisable to increase your fluid intake rather than immediately resorting to an...[Read More] Understanding Urinalysis Results: When to Consult a Specialist
Can Feeding Stray Cats Lead to Infectious Disease Risks?
Is there a possibility of infectious diseases? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if feeding stray cats and cleaning the bowls used for the cats poses a risk of transmitting diseases. Thank you.
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Common infectious diseases associated with contact with cats include cat scratch fever, toxoplasmosis, and ringworm (tinea). Cat scratch fever is primarily transmitted through scratches or bites from cats, toxoplasmosis is mainly spread through cat feces, and ringworm is t...[Read More] Can Feeding Stray Cats Lead to Infectious Disease Risks?
Rabies Concerns: Do You Need Vaccination After Bat Encounter?
Rabies issues Hello Doctor, 1. A few weeks ago, I discovered a large amount of bat droppings on the rooftop of my house. My father and I cleaned it up, but my father’s forearm came into contact with a small amount of the droppings. Should he get a rabies vaccine in this case? ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Rabies is primarily transmitted to humans through wounds caused by the bites and scratches of infected animals, and it is not commonly spread through feces. Currently, Taiwan is considered a rabies-endemic area, but the main animals affected are wild ferrets and civets ...[Read More] Rabies Concerns: Do You Need Vaccination After Bat Encounter?
Can You Wash Kids' Clothes After Bathroom Accidents?
Clothing washing issues? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about a situation where a child accidentally touches the toilet or a dirty corner of the environment after using the restroom. Regarding the handling of the clothing, can it be directly thrown into the washing machine? Wi...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: When it comes to cleaning dirt and stains, factors such as the level of soiling, the washing machine's capabilities, and the effectiveness of laundry detergents should be considered. Additionally, if there is a concern about bacterial infection on the clothing, it is ...[Read More] Can You Wash Kids' Clothes After Bathroom Accidents?
Can You Wash Kids' Clothes After Bathroom Accidents?
Clothing washing issues? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about a situation where a child accidentally touches the toilet or a dirty corner after using the restroom. Regarding the handling of the clothing, can it be directly thrown into the washing machine? Will the washing mach...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: When it comes to cleaning dirty laundry, factors such as the level of soiling, the washing machine's capabilities, and the effectiveness of the laundry detergent should be considered. Additionally, if there is a concern about bacterial infection in the clothing, it is...[Read More] Can You Wash Kids' Clothes After Bathroom Accidents?
Why Do I Unconsciously Raise My Chin? Understanding This Habit
Is it more comfortable for you to unconsciously raise your chin? I am not aware of how long this situation has been going on, but recently, people around me have commented that I look "arrogant" or "snobbish." Even children have started to imitate me by liftin...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The involuntary elevation of your chin may be related to issues with your cervical spine. I'm not sure if the X-ray you had at the hospital included the cervical region. Additionally, consider whether muscle tension in the neck could be causing the involuntary lifting...[Read More] Why Do I Unconsciously Raise My Chin? Understanding This Habit
Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns
Intermittent pain in the left and right chest? Hello Doctor: For the past three days, I have been experiencing frequent chest discomfort, particularly on the left side. Sometimes it feels sharp, and other times it feels like pressure. The pain often starts when I am quiet or rest...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The discomfort in your chest may be related to your late sleeping habits and anxiety. Additionally, it is important to consider the possibility of cardiovascular disease and thyroid disorders. Since you are still a minor, it is advisable to inform and discuss your health c...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns
Do Cockroaches on Clothes Cause Health Risks for My Family?
Will it cause discomfort? Hello, doctor. I have noticed cockroaches appearing in the area where I hang clothes on the balcony. I'm not sure if they can fly or if they have crawled onto the clothes. If they did crawl onto the clothes and I wear them later, could it cause disc...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Cockroaches can carry many viruses and bacteria, and during their movement on clothing, they may also lay eggs or leave behind antennae, hairs, secretions, etc., which can lead to infections or allergic reactions. Therefore, if there is any concern that clothing has been c...[Read More] Do Cockroaches on Clothes Cause Health Risks for My Family?
Do Cockroaches on Clothes Cause Health Risks for My Family?
Will it cause discomfort? Hello, doctor. I have noticed cockroaches appearing in the area where I hang clothes on the balcony. I'm not sure if they can fly or if they have crawled onto the clothes. If they did crawl onto the clothes and I wear them later, could it cause disc...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Cockroaches can carry numerous viruses and bacteria, and during their movement on clothing, they may also lay eggs or leave behind antennae, hairs, secretions, etc., which can lead to infections or allergic reactions. Therefore, if there is any suspicion that clothing has ...[Read More] Do Cockroaches on Clothes Cause Health Risks for My Family?
Understanding Your Health Check Report: Amylase and CYFRA21-1 Concerns
Health Check Report - Cytokeratin and Pancreatic Amylase Hello Doctor: I recently received my health check report, and there are two areas of concern that I would like to ask your opinion on before visiting a healthcare provider. The first is the amylase level, which is nearly a ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. If the amylase level is close to a thousand, there should be a high suspicion of pancreatitis. It is usually advisable to check the more specific lipase level. Additionally, while an abdominal ultrasound can visualize the pancreas, it may not provide detailed informatio...[Read More] Understanding Your Health Check Report: Amylase and CYFRA21-1 Concerns
Understanding Facial Pain: When to See a Doctor and Which Specialist to Consult
The face looks strange? Recently, I've been experiencing severe pain in the right cheekbone, along with pain in the chewing muscles. It hurts to talk and eat. I'm a bit worried; could you please tell me what this condition might be? Do I need to see a doctor? If so, whi...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The pain in your right cheek may be related to an issue with the right temporomandibular joint. It is recommended that you consult an ear, nose, and throat specialist.[Read More] Understanding Facial Pain: When to See a Doctor and Which Specialist to Consult
Understanding Cheek Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
There is a problem with the cheek? Hello, doctor: I have severe pain in my cheekbones, my masticatory muscles hurt, there's sharp pain in my cheekbones, talking causes pain, and eating is also painful. Pain relievers and muscle relaxants have not been effective, and I'm...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The pain in your cheekbones and masticatory muscles may be related to an issue with the right temporomandibular joint. It is recommended that you consult an otolaryngologist. Additionally, if pain relievers and muscle relaxants are ineffective, you should consider the poss...[Read More] Understanding Cheek Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Can You Contract Rabies from Passing by a Dead Squirrel?
Is there a possibility of contracting rabies by passing by a dead squirrel? On the morning of June 27th, I was walking along the roadside in Zhongli, Taoyuan, and I saw a dead squirrel as I passed by. I would like to ask if it is possible to contract rabies in this situation? Can...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Rabies is primarily transmitted to humans through wounds caused by scratches or bites from infected animals, and it is not commonly spread through air or insects. Currently, Taiwan is considered a rabies-endemic area, but the main animals affected are wild ferrets and cive...[Read More] Can You Contract Rabies from Passing by a Dead Squirrel?
Understanding Muscle Sensations After Drinking and Infection Risks from Food Utensils
Please ask your question? Hello, doctor. I have two questions to ask. Today, I went out for dinner with my supervisor from work and drank three bottles of beer, approximately 2000ml. After returning home, I felt a strange sensation in my calves, similar to the feeling after exerc...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. The discomfort in your calf is likely related to alcohol consumption. It is recommended to rest and observe your condition, as well as to increase your fluid intake. If the discomfort persists without improvement, seek medical attention. 2. If you are punctured by a dir...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Sensations After Drinking and Infection Risks from Food Utensils
Understanding Rabies Vaccine: Risks of Incomplete Dosing and Long-Term Effects
If a person receives a rabies vaccine but does not complete the full series, will it prolong the incubation period for rabies? Hello, Doctor. About 20 years ago, when I was around 7 years old, I was bitten by a monkey in Southeast Asia. I understand that after such a long time, r...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Receiving the rabies vaccine does not extend the incubation period of rabies. 2. Receiving multiple doses of the rabies vaccine does not convert it into pre-exposure prophylaxis. 3. Currently, the main medications that may affect the efficacy of the rabies vaccine are i...[Read More] Understanding Rabies Vaccine: Risks of Incomplete Dosing and Long-Term Effects
Understanding Leg Cramps and Ear Congestion: Causes and Solutions
Muscle cramps and ear congestion? Frequent nighttime calf cramps may indicate a deficiency in certain nutrients, such as potassium, magnesium, or calcium. It is advisable to consult a physician, preferably a primary care doctor or a neurologist, for further evaluation. Regarding...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: 1. Calf cramps may be related to a deficiency in electrolytes (sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium) and vitamins (B vitamins, D). Additionally, it may be associated with blood sugar levels, liver function, and kidney function. It is recommended to consult a family medici...[Read More] Understanding Leg Cramps and Ear Congestion: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Persistent Dizziness: When to Seek Medical Help
Dizziness and a feeling of heaviness in the head? Hello! I have been experiencing dizziness frequently for over a week. The sensation feels like a heavy head and light legs, with scattered attention and fatigue, somewhat similar to motion sickness, but not the spinning sensation ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your dizziness is likely due to anemia. If the cause of your previous iron deficiency anemia, such as chronic blood loss, was not identified (common causes at your age include heavy menstrual bleeding and gastrointestinal bleeding), it is easy for the anemia to recur after...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Dizziness: When to Seek Medical Help
Consultation on Stomach Medications for Aspirin Users
Gastrointestinal medication consultation? Hello, my mother previously took aspirin and Kangsulong. When she was taking aspirin, she was also prescribed Famotidine for her stomach. Later, due to increased use of Kangsulong, her stomach medication was changed to Pantoprazole. I wou...
Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Taking Aspirin and Prednisolone together can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort as a side effect, so it is usually recommended to take a gastric protective agent alongside. However, even when taking Aspirin alone, gastrointestinal discomfort can occur, which is why it is ...[Read More] Consultation on Stomach Medications for Aspirin Users