Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Blood in the stool? Doctor, I have blood in my stool, and I'm not sure what the cause is. I have taken a photo; can you please help me take a look?
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
If a person notices blood in their stool, it is important to assess the color of the blood (ranging from bright red to tarry black) and how it is mixed with the stool (whether it is just on the surface or mixed throughout) to help identify potential causes. It is advisable to con...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Should Your 9-Year-Old Return for a Check-Up After Flu Treatment?
Does a 9-year-old child need a follow-up appointment after recovering from the flu? Hello, my child is in the third grade and has been diagnosed with influenza A. They have been taking antiviral medication for five days and their fever has subsided, but they are experiencing extr...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
After recovering from the flu and even if you have taken antiviral medication like Tamiflu, you should return for a follow-up evaluation if you experience any discomfort, to prevent complications or sequelae. Thank you.[Read More] Should Your 9-Year-Old Return for a Check-Up After Flu Treatment?
Can Palatal Expanders Alleviate Nasal and Eye Allergy Symptoms?
Can the installation of a maxillary expander improve symptoms of nasal and ocular allergies? Hello, Doctor Zeng. I am currently 21 years old and was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis at the age of 17. Additionally, I have experienced allergic rhinitis with symptoms such as a ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
There is no evidence to suggest that the use of a maxillary expander can improve symptoms of nasal and ocular allergies. It is recommended to consult with a dentist or an otolaryngologist for further advice. I apologize for any shortcomings in my knowledge. Thank you for your que...[Read More] Can Palatal Expanders Alleviate Nasal and Eye Allergy Symptoms?
Emergency Medications for Allergies: Sneezing and Runny Nose Relief
What are some alternative medications for allergic rhinitis, such as runny nose or sneezing? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about my nose. It often runs or I sneeze when there are changes in the environment, such as when I enter or exit the bathroom, my home, or the car, a...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
It is advisable to have backup medications and stable control medications. It is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist. Thank you.[Read More] Emergency Medications for Allergies: Sneezing and Runny Nose Relief
Concerns About Undercooked Pork Chops: Parasite Risks and Medical Guidance
Eating undercooked pork chop? On the evening of May 20, I ate an air-fried frozen pork chop. Halfway through, I noticed that the meat was tough to chew and had a slightly raw color. The pork chop was a frozen product that I had purchased only two or three days ago. Is there a pos...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
It is highly recommended to consult an infectious disease specialist. Consuming contaminated or undercooked food can lead to infections or food poisoning. Thank you.[Read More] Concerns About Undercooked Pork Chops: Parasite Risks and Medical Guidance
Understanding Autoimmune Hepatitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Autoimmune hepatitis Hello Doctor: At the end of March this year, I sought consultation in the hepatobiliary and gastroenterology department due to fatigue, jaundice, and tea-colored urine. Blood tests showed AST 675, ALT 1077, and total bilirubin 4.6. Subsequent tests for HBsAg ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
It is highly recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible, preferably by returning to your original treating physician's clinic. If the appointments are fully booked, you should be able to request an additional slot with your original doctor. To determine the si...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Hepatitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Slow Down Recovery from Injuries?
Does ankylosing spondylitis cause slower resolution of swelling from injuries? Hello Doctor: Last year, I had a minor motorcycle accident and developed a lump on my calf. I applied ice and then heat to the area. A classmate who was riding with me also sustained an injury, and his...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Individuals with ankylosing spondylitis do not experience slower resolution of swelling from injuries or surgeries, unless they are taking certain medications or have personal factors involved. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Slow Down Recovery from Injuries?
Understanding Stiffness and Numbness in Limbs: Causes and Treatments
The hands and feet may experience stiffness and numbness? I have been experiencing stiffness and numbness in my hands and feet to the point where I cannot perform tasks. I have undergone surgery that was deemed necessary, and I have also had two nerve conduction studies, both of ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
If someone experiences stiffness and numbness in their limbs, it is important to consider joint disorders, neurological issues, circulatory problems, deficiencies in certain nutrients, or other rare conditions. It is advisable to first consult a neurologist or a cardiologist, and...[Read More] Understanding Stiffness and Numbness in Limbs: Causes and Treatments
Concerns About Potential HIV Exposure During Sleep: What You Need to Know
You may experience pinprick sensations while sleeping? A few days ago, I took a short nap (about 10 minutes) in the library, and there was a strange person sitting next to me. I was worried that he might be an HIV-positive patient and could stab me with a needle, and that I might...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
If you have any questions, it is recommended to visit an infectious disease clinic for expert evaluation. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Concerns About Potential HIV Exposure During Sleep: What You Need to Know
Understanding Persistent Skin Rashes: Possible Immune System Disorders
Red rashes on the back, posterior legs, arms, and anterior chest, with itching at night that makes it impossible to sleep, and some areas of skin peeling? Since January 2024, the patient has been experiencing symptoms and has visited three clinics where eczema or urticaria was su...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
The skin condition described by the netizen seems to be unrelated to the positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer of 1:5120. There may be other autoimmune diseases involved, and it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. It is recommended to first visit a dermatology de...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Skin Rashes: Possible Immune System Disorders
Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Counts: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Elevated white blood cell count? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my condition. I have mild thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia. Recently, my blood tests have shown elevated white blood cell counts, sometimes over 100,000 and at times 110,000, but the differential white...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
The user's white blood cell count is between 10,000 and 11,000 (normal is ≤10,000), which is within a reasonable range and should not be a concern. If there are any doubts, it is advisable to consult a hematologist for further evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Counts: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Affect Inflammation Levels in Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Does having wisdom teeth removed surgically affect inflammation levels? Hello Dr. Tseng, I am 20 years old and a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I had my wisdom teeth removed on February 22, and my cheeks were swollen and painful afterward. It has been 11 days since the proc...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
After surgery, swelling and pain may affect ESR/CRP levels, but unless it's severe, the impact is limited. Just inform your physician, and they will make the assessment. 2. In the case of sports injuries, such as sprains, muscle strains, or joint injuries, generally, they do...[Read More] Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Affect Inflammation Levels in Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding ANA Test Results: Eczema and Lupus Family History
Inquiry about ANA report? Hello, doctor. Three months ago, I started experiencing a significant rash on my lower back and abdomen. I have seen dermatologists at three different hospitals, and it was ultimately diagnosed as eczema due to a family history of lupus erythematosus on ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
After obtaining a result of 1:80(+) from the test, a direct follow-up test at 1:160 will be conducted. If the 1:160 result is negative, the report will be issued as 1:80. Generally, a result of 1:80 is not considered problematic. It is recommended to consult a rheumatologist for ...[Read More] Understanding ANA Test Results: Eczema and Lupus Family History
Understanding One-Sided Nosebleeds: When to See an ENT Specialist
Bleeding is more likely to occur on the left side? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask: 1. If there is unilateral epistaxis, but the bleeding stops within about 2 minutes. 2. The nasal blood is not pure blood but has a viscous consistency. * After the bleeding stops, there is bloo...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
If a person experiences a nosebleed on one side, and it occurs infrequently and stops quickly, there is usually no need for concern. However, if it happens frequently, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist for further evaluation. If there has been a head injury, one shou...[Read More] Understanding One-Sided Nosebleeds: When to See an ENT Specialist
How to Alleviate Tinnitus Caused by Volleyball Injury After 37 Years
37 years ago, I was hit by a volleyball while passing by the school gymnasium, which resulted in tinnitus? Dr. Tseng, I have been troubled by tinnitus in my left ear for a long time. Thirty-seven years ago, I was hit in the left ear by a volleyball in the school gym, which caused...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
I apologize, as I am an internist and not specialized in tinnitus. I recommend consulting an otolaryngologist to investigate whether it is a neurological issue, a traumatic problem, or another concern. Thank you for your question.[Read More] How to Alleviate Tinnitus Caused by Volleyball Injury After 37 Years
Understanding Elevated IgG4 Levels: Causes and Treatment Options
Elevated IgG4 levels? Hello, doctor. For over a year, I have been experiencing unexplained dull pain in my back, and rehabilitation has not shown significant improvement. I have undergone X-rays and tests related to ankylosing spondylitis, all of which returned normal results. Oc...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello, the IgG4-related disease can cause lymphadenopathy and pancreatitis. It is generally not possible to diagnose solely based on IgG4 levels; lymph node or organ biopsies can provide further assistance in diagnosing the disease. It is recommended to consult a rheumatologist f...[Read More] Understanding Elevated IgG4 Levels: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Urethral Bumps: Are They STD or Just Sebaceous Cysts?
Urological issues Hello doctor, I would like to ask you about a small, inconspicuous white bump near the urethral opening of the glans. It is not easily observable, does not hurt, and there are no noticeable sensations. Additionally, there seems to be an increase in the number of...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Based on your description, it seems that it is not caused by a sexually transmitted infection or masturbation. I recommend consulting a urologist for a proper diagnosis. Please avoid self-medicating. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Urethral Bumps: Are They STD or Just Sebaceous Cysts?
Managing Sacroiliac Joint Pain During Cold Weather: A Patient's Guide
The cold wave has caused a recurrence of pain in the sacroiliac joint? Hello Dr. Tseng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis (21 years old), and I have been experiencing symptoms for 3.5 years. Currently, under the treatment of a rheumatologist, I have achieved good control...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Some online users have noted that patients with rheumatic and autoimmune diseases may experience joint pain during changes in weather. It is recommended to seek medical evaluation to assess the condition of the disease. Physicians will provide treatment recommendations or adjustm...[Read More] Managing Sacroiliac Joint Pain During Cold Weather: A Patient's Guide
Persistent Symptoms: Constipation and Discomfort for Three Days
Hello, this symptom has been persistent for three days? On the first day, I suddenly experienced constipation along with difficulty in bowel movements; sitting down was very uncomfortable. The next day, I used a mentholated oil to relieve the bloating, which helped me pass gas, b...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
A user is experiencing anal pain with a sensation of a foreign body, making it difficult to sit down. After defecation, an unknown fluid is being discharged. Based on your description, it is not possible to determine the condition. It is recommended to consult a colorectal surgeo...[Read More] Persistent Symptoms: Constipation and Discomfort for Three Days
Do ESR Test Results Vary Significantly Between Different Hospitals?
Will the ESR test values vary significantly between different hospitals? Hello Dr. Tseng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. Since I need to have ESR and CRP tests done periodically, I would like to ask you: Can the results of the ESR test vary significantly due to diffe...
Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
The same individual may have varying ESR values on different days due to different physical conditions. However, if the same blood sample is tested using the same testing equipment at different hospitals, the values should be similar. Unless different testing tools are used or th...[Read More] Do ESR Test Results Vary Significantly Between Different Hospitals?