Understanding Pain in the Big Toe: Causes and Specialist Recommendations
Pain in the big toe? Two weeks ago, I experienced pain in my big toe. I initially thought it was due to an ingrown toenail and tight shoes, so I trimmed my toenail short. My big toe had been injured ten years ago and was not properly cared for, resulting in the nail separating fr...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Your condition may be "paronychia." It can be treated with medical therapy or "nail avulsion." It is recommended to consult a dermatologist for examination![Read More] Understanding Pain in the Big Toe: Causes and Specialist Recommendations
Effective Treatments and Prevention for Eyelid Herpes Outbreaks
Herpes around the eyelids? Hello, I previously had an outbreak and visited a dermatology department at a major hospital, where it was confirmed to be herpes. The doctor prescribed an expensive medication, which worked immediately, and I was completely healed in about a week. Rece...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Generally, herpes is not likely to recur in the short term unless there is a decline in immune function. If blisters appear again in the same area and the symptoms are similar, the possibility of herpes recurrence should be considered. We often compare herpes to a "co...[Read More] Effective Treatments and Prevention for Eyelid Herpes Outbreaks
Does Weightlifting Increase DHT Levels and Accelerate Hair Loss?
Could you please clarify your question about hair loss? Hello Doctor: After my military service, I noticed signs of male pattern baldness and have been prescribed Finasteride. Recently, I started working out and came across a report from Xinhua News stating that scientists have i...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Both testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) are factors that contribute to hair loss, with DHT being a more potent androgen derivative than testosterone. The medication you are taking, Finasteride, is an inhibitor of the enzyme 5α-reductase, which converts testosterone...[Read More] Does Weightlifting Increase DHT Levels and Accelerate Hair Loss?
Understanding the Transmission and Risks of Genital Warts: A Patient's Inquiry
Cauliflower Hello Doctor, I recently visited a doctor due to itching in the genital area. The doctor mentioned that besides bacterial vaginosis, I also have genital warts, and it seems that the condition is quite severe. Since I have not engaged in penetrative intercourse or oral...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, typically transmitted through sexual contact. Some individuals may indirectly transmit the virus to the perineal area if they have warts in other locations. Due to the often prolonged incubation period, whic...[Read More] Understanding the Transmission and Risks of Genital Warts: A Patient's Inquiry
Understanding Eczema: Diagnosis and Treatment for Children’s Skin Issues
Eczema Dear Doctor, I am very troubled by my child's skin issues, and my child feels embarrassed when interacting with peers. Is the diagnosis eczema and atopic dermatitis? The eczema on the fingers and the atopic dermatitis lesions have been recurring in ten different area...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: "Eczema" broadly refers to dermatitis, characterized by symptoms such as redness, swelling, and itching. "Atopic dermatitis" is actually a chronic, recurrent allergic inflammatory skin disease. There are certain diagnostic criteria that must meet at lea...[Read More] Understanding Eczema: Diagnosis and Treatment for Children’s Skin Issues
Understanding Becker's Nevus: Symptoms, Concerns, and Next Steps
Becker's nevus I recently had a biopsy at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and learned that the pigmentation on my chest is a Becker's nevus. However, the doctor mentioned that it wouldn't spread and wouldn't cause any discomfort. Yet, I often experience itching f...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Becker's nevus is a congenital lesion characterized by pigmentation, hair growth, and abnormal muscle proliferation, without any malignant transformation. The results from a biopsy may be similar. Generally, large hospitals in the northern region can perform biopsy ex...[Read More] Understanding Becker's Nevus: Symptoms, Concerns, and Next Steps
Understanding Scabies Testing and Diagnosis: What You Need to Know
Regarding scabies testing..? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you: 1. Recently, I have developed several itchy rashes on my body, and occasionally, the glans also itches (but I can't find any rashes). I'm worried it might be scabies, but I would like a more definitive...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Scabies is generally diagnosed clinically. If suspected, treatment is initiated with medication. Teaching hospitals may use KOH microscopy (scraping examination) for diagnosis, but the detection rate varies among individuals. The latest method involves confocal microscopy,...[Read More] Understanding Scabies Testing and Diagnosis: What You Need to Know
Why Do My Father's Hands Turn Red at Night? A Dermatological Inquiry
Does the hand become red over time? My father's hand started showing strange symptoms around May of last year. As the evening approaches, his hand becomes increasingly red, even appearing dark red, while during the day it looks more normal. After six months, his hand has dev...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Redness in the hands and feet is a phenomenon of congestion. Normally, when a person is exposed to a cold environment, the blood vessels in the extremities should constrict, leading to a paler appearance, which is a normal response. If there is an abnormal constriction or ...[Read More] Why Do My Father's Hands Turn Red at Night? A Dermatological Inquiry
Understanding Chest Rash: Causes and Treatment Options
Chest rash Hello Dr. Chang: I have three or four small red bean-sized lesions on my chest that have been present for over a year. Recently, a new one has started to develop, and it hurts when I press on it. What could this be?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: What you are referring to is likely folliculitis, which can be caused by common skin bacteria, fungi, viruses, etc. If the treatment has not been effective after more than a year, a biopsy can be performed, and treatment can be based on the results of the examination![Read More] Understanding Chest Rash: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Nail Changes: What Does a Hard and Darkened Nail Mean?
Nails Hello, doctor~~ Recently, I noticed that half of the nail on my right pinky finger has become very hard, and that part of the nail bed also appears darker in color. What could this be?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: It would be best to have photos to assist in answering your question. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Nail Changes: What Does a Hard and Darkened Nail Mean?
Identifying Skin Conditions: Eczema, Ringworm, Seborrheic Dermatitis, and Cellulitis
Please consult regarding the identification of skin symptoms (forwarded from the Director's mailbox)? Dear Sir/Madam, I kindly request your guidance on the following matters: 1. How to differentiate between the following conditions: 1. Eczema 2. Tinea (ringworm) ...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Your questions are answered briefly as follows: 1. Eczema: This term refers to various conditions of skin inflammation: 1-1 Acute eczema: Characterized by a short duration of onset, presenting with redness, swelling, or changes in the epidermis such as blisters or sign...[Read More] Identifying Skin Conditions: Eczema, Ringworm, Seborrheic Dermatitis, and Cellulitis
Understanding Skin Redness: Allergic Reactions After CT Scan
Skin redness I had a CT scan of the rectum yesterday with intravenous contrast injection. Today at noon, I noticed redness and itching in my groin area, but it hasn't swollen yet. Could this be an allergic reaction? I'm not sure which specialist I should consult.
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Allergic reactions caused by intravenous contrast agents can manifest as systemic symptoms such as urticaria or shock. If these symptoms resolve quickly, within a few days, it is still important to consider the contrast agent. To determine if the contrast agent is the caus...[Read More] Understanding Skin Redness: Allergic Reactions After CT Scan
Understanding and Managing Urticaria in Young Children: A Parent's Guide
Skin rash Hello Dr. Zhang, My daughter is currently one year and two months old. Two weeks ago, she had a cold with symptoms of a runny nose and nasal congestion. After taking Secorine syrup for two days, I noticed red rashes on her back while bathing (scattered across her enti...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: The cold medicine for your daughter does not contain ingredients that are likely to cause hives. Viral infections can also lead to hives, which will typically resolve on their own within a month, so there is no need to worry. However, do not stop the allergy medication too...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Urticaria in Young Children: A Parent's Guide
Understanding Redness and Pain in Pubic Skin: Causes and Solutions
Redness and irritation with a stinging sensation on the skin of the pubic area? Hello, I have some questions. I have a history of allergic skin reactions, and recently I've noticed a red, swollen area about the size of a dime on the skin of my pubic area. It also stings when...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Your issue may be folliculitis. If it resolves on its own, you should also consider urticaria. It is advisable to consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment![Read More] Understanding Redness and Pain in Pubic Skin: Causes and Solutions
Effective Treatments for Anal Warts: What You Need to Know
Anal warts If you have a cauliflower-like growth (approximately 1-2 cm) inside the anus, what treatment options are available? Which department should I visit at Hsinchu City Hospital? I have been using a wart treatment, but it persists. Is outpatient surgery an option?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: You can seek treatment from a colorectal surgeon using electrosurgery. If a dermatologist can see it, cryotherapy can be used. Both Wartrol and Aldara can treat warts (these are relatively less painful methods).[Read More] Effective Treatments for Anal Warts: What You Need to Know
Can Baby Oil Help with Peeling Skin from Acne Treatments?
Baby oil Applying acne medication on the face, combined with the recent cold weather, has caused skin peeling. Can I use {JaoX} baby oil to improve the peeling? Will this worsen my acne-prone skin?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: The medication for acne that may cause peeling is retinoic acid (A acid). The side effect can be managed with oily moisturizing products, especially in dry and cold weather, but be cautious of potential pore clogging![Read More] Can Baby Oil Help with Peeling Skin from Acne Treatments?
Effective Home Remedies for Boils on the Labia: A Guide
Bartholin's gland cyst on the labia majora? Hello, doctor. A few days ago, I developed a large boil on one side of my labia majora, which is red, swollen, and painful. What medication should I take or apply to help it heal? Note: I haven't had sexual intercourse for a l...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: The management of skin cysts during the acute phase typically involves incision and drainage, along with bacterial culture, as this facilitates appropriate antibiotic therapy (different bacterial strains have varying sensitivities to antibiotics). Self-treatment is not rec...[Read More] Effective Home Remedies for Boils on the Labia: A Guide
Understanding Skin Issues: Causes and Solutions for Red Bumps
Skin issues! The third image shows two red spots. These types of red spots usually appear after the skin has been itchy.
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: It appears to be urticaria, which can be treated with oral medication; topical treatments are generally less effective.[Read More] Understanding Skin Issues: Causes and Solutions for Red Bumps
Understanding Skin Issues: Dryness vs. Hives in Winter
Skin issues Hello, I previously inquired about experiencing a prickling sensation on my skin during winter. I'm unsure whether it is due to dry skin, hives, or something else. I have taken photos of the red spots that occur with the symptoms. Would it be possible to send the...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: If necessary, it is better to consult a nearby dermatologist for treatment. You can also upload images to a free image hosting service (which is usually provided by general ISPs or portal websites) and then share the link.[Read More] Understanding Skin Issues: Dryness vs. Hives in Winter
Managing Recurrence of Genital Warts: Treatment and Prevention Tips
Cauliflower Hello, I have warts in the anal area and have undergone surgery to remove them twice. However, I am still afraid of recurrence. Can applying Aldara cream help suppress any latent warts from growing back? Is it effective? My sexual partner has never shown any symptoms;...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: After the treatment of cauliflower lesions, there is still a chance of recurrence. Aldara can be used for subsequent treatment, but the success rate is not 100%. If the virus is Human Papillomavirus (HPV) types 16 or 18, there is a possibility of developing cervical cancer...[Read More] Managing Recurrence of Genital Warts: Treatment and Prevention Tips