What Could This Bump on My Neck Be? Understanding Lymph Nodes and Infections
What exactly has grown on my neck? Hello Doctor, about three weeks ago I had a bit of a runny nose and a cold, then my eyes started to feel sore and watery in bright light, and my throat was a bit sore. A couple of days later, I noticed a lump near my neck. It's hard to desc...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It is difficult to confirm the disease based on your description. To simplify, if there are no lesions on the skin surface, it may be something that has developed subcutaneously. A subcutaneous mass could potentially be a lymphadenopathy or a salivary gland tumor. Without ...[Read More] What Could This Bump on My Neck Be? Understanding Lymph Nodes and Infections
Can You Have Anal Sex After Colon Polyp Removal and Hemorrhoid Treatment?
Post-colon polypectomy If someone has internal hemorrhoids (which have been ligated) and has undergone the removal of several colon polyps, can they still engage in anal intercourse? What potential complications or changes might occur?
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Anal intercourse is not considered a proper sexual practice, and I cannot provide you with an answer.[Read More] Can You Have Anal Sex After Colon Polyp Removal and Hemorrhoid Treatment?
Does Excessive Western Medicine Increase Kidney Failure Risk?
Is there a correlation between excessive use of Western medicine and the likelihood of needing dialysis? Elderly people often say that taking too many Western medications can lead to kidney damage. Is this true? Does taking traditional Chinese medicine reduce the need for dialysi...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
1. Common medications that can easily lead to renal failure include analgesics and aminoglycoside antibiotics. Long-term use, especially in patients with chronic kidney disease and renal failure, can accelerate the deterioration of kidney function. 2. There is no medical evidenc...[Read More] Does Excessive Western Medicine Increase Kidney Failure Risk?
Understanding STD Testing: What Other Infections Should You Consider?
May I ask the doctor? Hello Doctor, I have had unprotected sexual intercourse and underwent testing for HIV and syphilis. After the three-month window period and a follow-up test six months later, both results were negative, which indicates that I have not been infected with HIV ...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello: If both the three-month and six-month follow-ups show negative results, there is no need for further testing for HIV and syphilis. However, if high-risk sexual behavior occurs during this period, the window period calculation should start from the time of the last sexual e...[Read More] Understanding STD Testing: What Other Infections Should You Consider?
Are My Lymphocyte Levels Normal? Understanding Blood Test Results
Is the lymphocyte count normal? A month ago, I had a CDC blood test. My white blood cell count was 8,100, with 3% band neutrophils, 70% segmented neutrophils, 21% lymphocytes, 1% eosinophils, 0% basophils, and 5% monocytes. I am a bit paranoid. Doctor, are these results normal fo...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello: The observed numbers follow a normal distribution; however, helper T cells require specialized detection methods that cannot be determined through standard classification. Zheng Shuxing.[Read More] Are My Lymphocyte Levels Normal? Understanding Blood Test Results
Understanding Unintentional Weight Loss: Tips for Healthy Weight Gain
Too thin? I have a question: I am 24 years old, 164.5 cm tall, and weigh 45 kg. My weight has consistently remained at 45 kg, and I am unsure why I am not gaining weight. Is there a possibility of an underlying condition? What can I do to gain weight?
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Mr. Fan weighs 45 kg and is 164.5 cm tall, resulting in a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 16.7, which is indeed considered underweight (the minimum is 18). Therefore, it is recommended that you consume an additional 300-500 calories daily. It is also important to understand if there is ...[Read More] Understanding Unintentional Weight Loss: Tips for Healthy Weight Gain
Understanding CRP and Procalcitonin: Key Indicators for Infection Monitoring
What is the CRP indicator? What is procalcitonin? What is the CRP indicator? During the SARS outbreak in 2003, procalcitonin was frequently mentioned. It seems to be used for monitoring infections now as well. I hope to understand more about this information. Thank you, from some...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello: CRP (C-reactive protein) and Procalcitonin are both protein substances secreted during inflammation in the body. Procalcitonin, in particular, tends to increase during bacterial infections, while CRP can also elevate in response to viral or other infections. Spontaneous in...[Read More] Understanding CRP and Procalcitonin: Key Indicators for Infection Monitoring
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Lymphadenopathy About two weeks ago, I noticed swelling of a lymph node in the back of my right neck. I consulted an ENT specialist who suspected a bacterial infection and prescribed antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication. The next day, the lymph node did decrease in size, ...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello, if the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged for more than a month and do not resolve, a biopsy should be performed to understand the cause. If they have resolved, it is likely due to a viral infection that the body has developed immunity against. Additionally, if there has...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Low Platelets and White Blood Cell Counts: What You Need to Know
Regarding blood platelets, white blood cells, lymphocytes, and neutrophils? I discovered my low platelet count during my pregnancy. However, the correct cause was not identified during both pregnancies, and I was ultimately diagnosed with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. I am...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello: 1. During pregnancy, especially in the last three months, platelet counts tend to be lower, so it is essential to monitor this again when not pregnant. 2. If the counts remain low and the white blood cell count is also low, a bone marrow biopsy is recommended. This procedu...[Read More] Understanding Low Platelets and White Blood Cell Counts: What You Need to Know
Understanding Medication Side Effects: Swelling and Detox Tips
Medication issues Hello Doctor, I have been taking antibiotics for about two months to treat urethritis. As a result, both sides of my lower lip are slightly swollen and quite noticeable. I have stopped the medication, but the swelling persists. 1. What could be the cause? Whic...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello: The standard treatment for urethritis typically involves the use of antibiotics for three to seven days. Two months is indeed too long. I recommend that you stop using the antibiotics. If you still experience burning during urination or frequent urination, females should c...[Read More] Understanding Medication Side Effects: Swelling and Detox Tips
Understanding Serum Separation: Boosting Immunity for Better Health
The serum is incorrect? Dr. Zheng, I noticed that my blood shows a separation of water and plasma (I hope this description is correct). After drawing blood and letting it sit in a cup for a while, it forms two layers: the upper layer looks like water, and the lower layer is plasm...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
After standing or centrifugation, everyone's blood can be separated into two layers: the upper layer is a light yellow serum, and the lower layer consists of red blood cells. Between these two layers, there is a thin, pale white layer (known as the buffy coat). Therefore, yo...[Read More] Understanding Serum Separation: Boosting Immunity for Better Health
Understanding Nausea and Weakness: When to Consult a Doctor
I'm not sure if it can be considered a medical condition? I clearly eat food, but sometimes while walking, I feel nauseous. If I ignore it, I gradually feel weak, and my vision becomes increasingly impaired. However, if I sit down to rest or consume something with calories, ...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Xiao Fen, you need a basic health check-up to determine if you have anemia or other issues. Wishing you good health, Dr. Zheng Shuheng, Taoyuan Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Nausea and Weakness: When to Consult a Doctor
Could My Grandma's Symptoms Indicate Purpura or Another Condition?
Is this purpura? Hello doctor, I have a question. My grandmother (86 years old) cannot walk for long periods; her feet and ankles easily swell, and she often has small bruises on her calves. Could this be purpura, or could it be indicative of other diseases? (She does not have an...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Elderly individuals may experience swelling and bruising after prolonged walking, which is indicative of lower extremity edema. If elevating the legs and resting leads to improvement, it is advisable to rest with elevated legs after exercise. Additionally, a medical evalua...[Read More] Could My Grandma's Symptoms Indicate Purpura or Another Condition?
Can You Get HIV from a Needle Stick Without Bleeding?
About HIV/AIDS? If you are punctured by a suspected needle and experience redness and swelling in your finger but no bleeding, is there a risk of contracting HIV?
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
There is a 0.3% chance of contracting HIV if you are pricked by a needle used by an HIV-positive patient, so it is important to identify what type of needle it is. If it is a suture needle or another type, it can generally be disregarded. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Li-Chen, Department ...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from a Needle Stick Without Bleeding?
Can Routine Blood Tests Detect STDs Like HIV?
Blood test? Hello, Doctor: I had a boyfriend three years ago (we broke up three years ago), and he was my first boyfriend. After we broke up, I found out that he had a rather promiscuous sex life, having been with several partners. I'm very worried that he might have some in...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
If the health check report contains the terms HIV/AIDS or the Chinese description of AIDS or Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) syndrome, it indicates that an HIV test has been conducted. If it is unclear whether the above tests were performed, it is recommended to have another b...[Read More] Can Routine Blood Tests Detect STDs Like HIV?
Understanding Sleep Studies: Which Department to Visit?
Sleep study Does your hospital offer sleep studies? Under which department can I schedule an appointment?
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello: I'm not clear on what you mean by sleep study, so I cannot provide you with detailed information. Wishing you peace.[Read More] Understanding Sleep Studies: Which Department to Visit?
Understanding Facial Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Help
My face is so swollen? Hello, doctor~~ I have a problem that has been bothering me for two years. Sometimes my face suddenly swells up, and the timing of the swelling is unpredictable. At first, I thought it was just regular edema, but it seems not to be the case. Every time I sw...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello: This may be microvascular dilation or an autoimmune disease. Please seek assistance at the rheumatology and immunology clinic at Taoyuan Hospital, Dr. Zheng Shuxing.[Read More] Understanding Facial Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Ponstan: Its Role in Fever and Pain Management
Anti-inflammatory agents Ponstan, also known as Mefenamic Acid, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is primarily used for pain relief and to reduce inflammation. While it is not specifically indicated for treating fever, it can have a mild antipyretic effect, wh...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello: This question is too brief. When seeking medical attention for a fever, it is essential to first have a physical examination followed by necessary laboratory tests to determine the underlying condition. Ponstan is not an antimicrobial agent; it is classified as an anti-inf...[Read More] Understanding Ponstan: Its Role in Fever and Pain Management
Can Hemorrhoids Cause Bleeding During Bowel Movements?
Can hemorrhoids cause blood to drip when having a bowel movement? Hello, every time I have a bowel movement, I notice something that looks like hemorrhoids protruding from my anus. This issue has been going on for about three years. I have avoided seeing a doctor due to embarrass...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello, it is possible that you may be experiencing symptoms related to polyps or hemorrhoids, both of which can cause bleeding. Rectal cancer can also lead to rectal bleeding, so it is important to undergo a colonoscopy for diagnosis. Please consult a colorectal surgeon regarding...[Read More] Can Hemorrhoids Cause Bleeding During Bowel Movements?
Antibiotic Recommendations for SLE Patients with Joint Replacements
Infection prevention Hello, Dr. Zheng! I am a patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and have undergone total hip arthroplasty on both sides. I had my right hip replaced in 1998 and my left hip replaced in 1999. Shortly after the left hip surgery, I went to the dentist a...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine
Hello, generally speaking, administering 2 grams of ampicillin preoperatively can effectively prevent complications from streptococcal infections. However, if both of your osteomyelitis cases are caused by atypical bacteria, special treatment may be necessary. - Dr. Cheng Shu-Hsi...[Read More] Antibiotic Recommendations for SLE Patients with Joint Replacements