Should You Take Medication for Systemic Skin Conditions?
Should systemic skin symptoms be treated with medication? Hello Doctor: I have had skin issues since childhood, including palmar keratoderma (severe dryness, roughness, and scaling of the palms) and onychomycosis of the thumb. I also suffer from severe eczema around the anal area...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: I apologize, but your question cannot be accurately answered online, as I cannot see your symptoms. Therefore, I am unable to provide a prescription or continue answering further questions. Please consult a physician. Wishing you all the best.[Read More] Should You Take Medication for Systemic Skin Conditions?
Managing Chronic Eczema: Tips to Prevent Recurrence
Inquire about eczema? Hello, Doctor: I have chronic eczema on my toes that has persisted for a long time. It keeps recurring even after it improves. Is there any way to cure it or prevent its recurrence? Thank you!
Dr. Du Zhiqiang Reply:
Regarding Mr. Lai's issue, it is important to first confirm whether it is eczema or a complication from another infection. Individuals with excessive foot sweating have a higher recurrence rate. Furthermore, the type and duration of medication are also crucial. If necessary,...[Read More] Managing Chronic Eczema: Tips to Prevent Recurrence
Hair Loss: What Tests Should You Consider for Diagnosis?
What tests should be done for hair loss? Last March, I discovered a round patch of hair loss and applied the medication prescribed by a dermatologist, which helped my hair grow back. However, I have now found another round bald spot in a different area. I also experience hair she...
Dr. Du Zhiqiang Reply:
Dear Zai, Alopecia areata is more common in older adults and middle-aged individuals, with an unknown cause. Many tests also yield no answers. It is medically believed to be caused by immune system dysregulation, endocrine disorders, localized infections, or poor nutrition of th...[Read More] Hair Loss: What Tests Should You Consider for Diagnosis?
Understanding Hair Loss: Causes and Solutions for Dry Hair
Hair loss I have dry hair, and I've been experiencing hair loss for the past year. However, in the last two months, the hair loss has become more severe, and I'm not sure what to do...
Dr. Du Zhiqiang Reply:
Dear Hsin-Yi, Thank you for your inquiry regarding hair loss, which is indeed a concern for many people. Most cases of severe hair loss can be attributed to identifiable causes, such as fungal infections, bacterial infections, anemia, chemotherapy, or medication-related damage. ...[Read More] Understanding Hair Loss: Causes and Solutions for Dry Hair
How to Relieve Itching After Cactus Needle Prick on Skin
Itching skin? If you have touched a cactus and are experiencing itching from the spines, here are some steps you can take: 1. **Do Not Scratch**: Avoid scratching the affected area to prevent further irritation or infection. 2. **Wash the Area**: Gently wash the
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: If there is a splinter embedded in the skin, it should be removed. If there isn't one, assess the situation; if discomfort persists, consult a surgeon or dermatologist. Do not attempt to blindly pick at the area to avoid injury or infection. Wishing you safety.[Read More] How to Relieve Itching After Cactus Needle Prick on Skin
Managing Fungal Infections: Ketoconazole Use and Liver Health Concerns
Dermatological medications Hello Doctor: I have a fungal infection (tinea corporis) that covers a large area, approximately the entire back of my right upper arm, the inner thigh, and about three coin-sized spots on my chest with hyperpigmentation. I recently visited a dermatolog...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: I suggest you still get a liver function test, as there are risks involved. Although the probability is low, from my personal perspective, tinea versicolor is merely unsightly and usually does not cause any discomfort or affect health. Even if it is treated orally, it may ...[Read More] Managing Fungal Infections: Ketoconazole Use and Liver Health Concerns
Understanding Vasculitis: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Vasculitis I recently developed red rashes on both legs and consulted a dermatologist. The doctor suspects it is vasculitis and prescribed a topical medication, advising me to monitor any changes at home. However, I am still unclear about my condition, so I am reaching out for fu...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: There are many causes of vasculitis, including medications, allergies, infections, autoimmune disorders, and so on. Additionally, there is a category labeled "idiopathic," where the cause remains unknown despite thorough investigation. If the rash gradually fades...[Read More] Understanding Vasculitis: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Chronic Skin Condition: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Boils
The condition has been recurring for a year? Hello, I started experiencing boils for the first time in July 2008, and they have been recurring until now, August 2009. On average, I develop 1-2 boils each month, with varying locations each time, including my knees, thighs, scalp, ...
Dr. Du Zhiqiang Reply:
Dear COX, Regarding the recurrent outbreaks of boils, the pathogens are mostly Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For long-term occurrences, it is important to assess whether your work involves excessive sweating and frequent scratching, as well as whether...[Read More] Chronic Skin Condition: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Boils
Understanding Skin Issues Around the Anus: Causes and Solutions
Lateral anal region I initially thought that the pain around my anus was due to using toilet paper too aggressively, which caused skin irritation. To prevent further friction, I applied iodine and covered it with breathable tape. However, when I took a shower at night, I noticed ...
Dr. Du Zhiqiang Reply:
Dear Xiaolong, There are many potential causes for the skin breakdown on the outer side of your anus. Common issues include folliculitis, while more severe conditions could involve herpes. It is essential to visit a clinic for a proper diagnosis and treatment from a physician fo...[Read More] Understanding Skin Issues Around the Anus: Causes and Solutions
Understanding HPV Transmission Risks: Insights on Oral and Genital Exposure
Cauliflower - 13 months 1. If she had the virus in her oral cavity 11 months ago, it is possible for the viral load to decrease to around 500 copies over that time, but this can vary widely depending on individual immune response and other factors. 2. The negative results from y...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: 1. That is an experimental report, not stating that there are 500 viruses in the oral cavity. 2. Perhaps 3, perhaps 4, may be infected with HPV, but it does not necessarily lead to warts. 5. If there are no lesions, it's best to leave it alone; addressing it may not b...[Read More] Understanding HPV Transmission Risks: Insights on Oral and Genital Exposure
Exploring the Impact of Underarm Hair Removal on Women's Skin Health
Regarding female underarm hair removal? Hello, I would like to inquire whether there are any negative effects associated with women shaving their armpit hair. Thank you!
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello! The negative effects of shaving armpit hair may include 1. pain, and 2. the possibility of inflammation and bacterial infection. It is recommended to use laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) hair removal, which can lead to permanent hair removal after several treatments. Re...[Read More] Exploring the Impact of Underarm Hair Removal on Women's Skin Health
Understanding Blood Tests for Syphilis: Accurate Diagnosis and Staging
Blood testing methods Which blood test is most accurate for diagnosing syphilis and determining its stage when the initial test is positive? Thank you.
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: There are two blood tests for syphilis: one is RPR or VDRL; the other is TPHA. Typically, both tests are conducted during the first screening. If TPHA is positive, it almost certainly indicates a past syphilis infection, and there is no need to retest for TPHA, as it will ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Tests for Syphilis: Accurate Diagnosis and Staging
Understanding Nail Disorders: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Nail Infections
I have a nail disorder? Hello: About a year ago, my nails started to crack, and the base became swollen, with each nail becoming infected one by one. When I press on the base of the nails, some pus can be squeezed out... There is no pain or itching... Currently, seven nails are i...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello! The nails are showing signs of cracking with swelling at the base, and when pressure is applied to the nail root, pus can be expressed, although there is no pain or itching. If there are also red patches on the skin with thick scales, it may lean more towards pustular psor...[Read More] Understanding Nail Disorders: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Nail Infections
Persistent Itchy Red Bumps on Neck: Causes and Treatment Options
Itchy neck? Hello Dr. Jiang: I have small red spots on my neck that become increasingly itchy when scratched. After applying a topical ointment from the clinic for 3 to 4 days, the condition recurs. This has been repeating for 2 to 3 years. I'm not sure what to do. What skin...
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
1. Seek consultation with a dermatologist. 2. Spend time discussing with the physician to establish possible causes of the condition (including allergies, infections, insect bites, etc.). 3. Address the identified causes accordingly.[Read More] Persistent Itchy Red Bumps on Neck: Causes and Treatment Options
Causes of Yellowing and Thickening Toenails: When to Worry?
Yellowing of toenails? I previously had a history of athlete's foot, which later healed, but I noticed that my toenails started to turn yellow and thicken over time. I personally dislike cutting my toenails and usually wait until they reach a certain length before trimming t...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello: Yellowing and thickening of the nails should be evaluated based on the degree of thickening and how many toenails are affected. Generally, considerations include localized long-term pressure, fungal infections, or genetic factors, and a dermatologist should make the assess...[Read More] Causes of Yellowing and Thickening Toenails: When to Worry?
Should I See a Doctor for My Back and Forehead Acne?
Consult a physician? I would like to ask the doctor if I should see a physician. Recently, I have developed many pimples on my back, and I have a few large pimples on my forehead. What could be the cause of this? Sometimes my back itches. Thank you, doctor!
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: Of course, you can consult a physician for treatment. There are many causes of acne, including hormonal factors, sleep disturbances, stress, pore keratinization, and infections.[Read More] Should I See a Doctor for My Back and Forehead Acne?
Understanding Cauliflower Warts: Symptoms, Incubation, and Testing Options
Cauliflower The incubation period for cauliflower (cauliflower ear) is typically around 2 to 6 weeks. If you have had sexual intercourse, you can generally consider yourself not infected if you do not show any symptoms after 2 weeks. For testing, you can undergo a variety of exam...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: Generally, it takes several months for lesions to become visible in a clinical setting. In cases where there is suspicion of "cauliflower" (likely referring to genital warts), tests for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as syphilis, HIV, herpes, c...[Read More] Understanding Cauliflower Warts: Symptoms, Incubation, and Testing Options
Understanding Shingles: Treatment Options and Recurrence Risks
Shingles Hello Doctor, I have just been diagnosed with shingles, and it has been a week since the onset. The blisters have not yet ruptured, and the affected area extends from my right rib cage to my back, causing severe unilateral neuropathic pain. I have heard that early treatm...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus that occurs in individuals with weakened immune systems. This virus is one of the few microorganisms that can be effectively treated with antiviral medications. There are generally t...[Read More] Understanding Shingles: Treatment Options and Recurrence Risks
Understanding Marble Skin Disease: Causes and Treatment Options
White patches may appear on the elbow? From the back of the hand to the elbow, there are skin changes resembling marbled patterns with red and white spots. I previously consulted a dermatologist who mentioned something about "marble-like atopic" conditions, but I apolog...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: Marble skin rash is more common in children, so the likelihood for your age is low. The red and white pattern resembles a tinea infection; it would be advisable to consult a few more physicians for further evaluation![Read More] Understanding Marble Skin Disease: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Scalp Issues: Causes of Flaky Skin and When to See a Doctor
Scalp Sometimes the scalp seems to have dandruff, and when scratched, it bleeds a little and becomes red. What could be the cause of this? Is it necessary to see a doctor?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: This is what is known as "seborrheic dermatitis." It can be treated with anti-dandruff shampoos. For the scalp rash, topical corticosteroid solutions can be applied. However, if there is bleeding from scratching, it is important to be aware of the risk of skin in...[Read More] Understanding Scalp Issues: Causes of Flaky Skin and When to See a Doctor