Can Fungal Infections Spread to Internal Organs from Skin Contact?
Is it possible for fungi to infect internal organs? It is unlikely that you would develop a fungal infection in your internal organs from contact with a contaminated surface, such as a blanket, that has been in contact with an area affected by athlete's foot (tinea pedis). A...
Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Hello: Generally, fungi prefer to grow in moist environments, and their nutrients come from the stratum corneum of the skin. The thicker the stratum corneum, the better the growth. The thickest area of the stratum corneum on the body is the soles of the feet. The skin on the nose...[Read More] Can Fungal Infections Spread to Internal Organs from Skin Contact?
How to Prevent Nail Fungus: When to See a Dermatologist
Skin I have a slight case of nail fungus. How can I prevent it, and which doctor should I see for advice?
Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Hello: The treatment and prevention of onychomycosis (fungal nail infection) is essential knowledge for dermatologists. You can obtain the information you need by visiting a nearby dermatologist's office. However, not all nail issues are necessarily due to onychomycosis, so ...[Read More] How to Prevent Nail Fungus: When to See a Dermatologist
Understanding Antibiotics for Treating Nail Bed Infections
Antibiotics Hello Dr. Huang, I am currently studying in the United States and plan to return to Taiwan on the 28th of this month. However, I believe I have developed paronychia on my left big toe. About a month ago, I suspected that my toenail had ingrown, but I did not address i...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
1. Feasible. 2. Drink plenty of water when taking medication; do not let the capsule dissolve before reaching the stomach. If symptoms do not improve, try eating something to see if it helps.[Read More] Understanding Antibiotics for Treating Nail Bed Infections
Understanding Herpes: Symptoms, Transmission, and Prevention Strategies
About herpes? Previously, I had some blisters on my genitals and went to the hospital for treatment. It was diagnosed as herpes. After treatment, there are no visible symptoms. However, I was still concerned and had a blood test done. The results showed that the herpes simplex vi...
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello, Chen: Due to the diverse sexual lifestyles of modern individuals, there are no strict limitations on where herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2 can manifest. Blood tests are used to check for antibodies, but they must be interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms ...[Read More] Understanding Herpes: Symptoms, Transmission, and Prevention Strategies
Understanding Skin Issues in Toddlers: Causes and Solutions
Skin issues My child is one and a half years old, a girl. Yesterday, I noticed that the skin on her genital area was red. Today, I took her to see a doctor, and he said that because she has been eating adult food, her body has become more acidic, which has caused some mild allerg...
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
In Western medicine, there is no evidence that children develop skin issues due to changes in pH from consuming adult food. Your child's skin problem is more likely a candidal infection and should be treated with topical antifungal medications. Diapered children are naturall...[Read More] Understanding Skin Issues in Toddlers: Causes and Solutions
Can Hives Cause High Fever in Children? Understanding the Connection
Can hives be associated with a high fever? My child is currently 5 years old. One night around 7 PM, he suddenly developed a high fever, and when I measured his temperature with an ear thermometer, it was 38.9 degrees Celsius. However, he did not exhibit any cold symptoms such as...
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Generally, hives do not cause fever unless the underlying cause of the hives is a bacterial or viral infection in another part of the body, or if the hives are due to an autoimmune disease. In such cases, it is more likely to experience accompanying fever, so it is important to r...[Read More] Can Hives Cause High Fever in Children? Understanding the Connection
How to Treat Itchy Groin and Improve Dark, Wrinkled Skin
Groin itching Hello, doctor. I have an issue with itching in my groin area, and now the skin there has become dark and wrinkled. Is there a way to improve this condition?
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
The main cause of itching in the groin area is fungal infection, so it is essential to thoroughly treat the fungus. As for the darkening of the skin, it is due to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which may take a long time to fade on its own. However, if it persists for too l...[Read More] How to Treat Itchy Groin and Improve Dark, Wrinkled Skin
Understanding Skin Bumps: Are They Warts or Eczema?
Developed an unusual growth? Hello Doctor: In early April of this year, I noticed a round bump near the groove next to my left foreskin. I squeezed it, and it burst, releasing a mixture of pus and blood! I then applied a topical ointment commonly referred to as "little nurse...
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello, Cauliflower is a viral infection, while eczema is a manifestation of skin inflammation. Based on your description, it is currently not possible to determine your exact condition. I recommend that when you experience the symptoms mentioned, you should promptly visit a pub...[Read More] Understanding Skin Bumps: Are They Warts or Eczema?
Understanding Causes of Vaginal Itching After Oral Sex: A Dermatologist's Insight
What causes itching in the genital area? Hello Dr. Hong: After I performed oral sex on my wife for the first time, she mentioned the next day that her genital area was itchy. However, we have had sexual intercourse multiple times before, and she always showers afterward. During t...
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello, A-Dan: The most common cause of genital itching is a fungal infection. Other causes may include eczema, bacterial infections, and more. Based on your description, it is not possible to determine your specific condition. I recommend that when you experience the symptoms men...[Read More] Understanding Causes of Vaginal Itching After Oral Sex: A Dermatologist's Insight
Understanding and Treating Toenail Fungus: Expert Insights and Safety Concerns
Questions about toenail fungus? Dear Dr. Jiang, I am currently residing in Germany and have been struggling with onychomycosis (fungal nail infection). I have previously undergone treatment in Taiwan twice, the most recent being two years ago. German doctors are quite resistant ...
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
The ingredient in Flucoderm is not fluconazole. This medication is less commonly used in Taiwan for treating onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), and personal experience with it is limited. In Taiwan, we commonly use two classes of medications: Sporanox (itraconazole) and Lamis...[Read More] Understanding and Treating Toenail Fungus: Expert Insights and Safety Concerns
Can Previous Cold Sore History Trigger Outbreaks from Other Herpes Infections?
If there is a history of herpes labialis, can exposure to other herpes patients trigger an outbreak? Hello Doctor: I have a history of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections. Recently, due to work, I came into contact with a patient who had chickenpox. One day later, I noticed red...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello: The appearance of "herpes" at the corner of the mouth is likely "herpes simplex," not chickenpox or "shingles," which can recur. Poor physical condition, fatigue, and lack of sleep can easily trigger outbreaks. Sincerely, Dr. Jiang Yu-Jiao, De...[Read More] Can Previous Cold Sore History Trigger Outbreaks from Other Herpes Infections?
Understanding Skin Issues: From Groin to Body - A Dermatologist's Insight
Nurturing the body from the groin area? Hello, doctor. Three months ago, I started developing bumps in my groin area that resemble mosquito bites and are very itchy. Then, they spread to my buttocks, and now I have small blisters on the back of my hands that have been increasing ...
Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Hello: It is not possible to make a diagnosis based solely on your description. Please consult a dermatologist nearby for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Li-Chen, Dermatology.[Read More] Understanding Skin Issues: From Groin to Body - A Dermatologist's Insight
Persistent Pink Spot on Thigh: Causes and When to Seek Help
Bruising with persistent erythema? Hello Doctor, I have a pink patch on my right thigh that is about the size of a one-dollar coin. Aside from being red, it does not hurt, swell, or cause any other discomfort. I remember that this area previously had an unexplained bruise, but it...
Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Hello: A red patch the size of a coin, which is not painful, swollen, or itchy, has at least ruled out eczema and bacterial infection. If you can visit a dermatology clinic, you should be able to get an answer. It's difficult to make a diagnosis without seeing the condition,...[Read More] Persistent Pink Spot on Thigh: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding and Treating Groin Fungal Infections: Tips and Remedies
Fungal infection of the groin and inner thighs? Hello Dr. Huang, thank you for taking the time to address our concerns. My symptoms are as follows: I have had a fungal infection in my groin area, including the genital region, for at least ten years, and there is also a phenomenon...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Econalone is a combination medication used to treat eczema and has antifungal properties. If there is indeed a fungal infection, Econalone can relieve itching but may not completely eradicate the infection; in such cases, it is more ideal to use a specific antifungal prescription...[Read More] Understanding and Treating Groin Fungal Infections: Tips and Remedies
Understanding Nail Growth Issues: Is Your Toenail Displaced?
The nail bed has been detached from the toe? The link provided leads to a photo album, but based on your description, it seems that your big toe's nail has been growing in an abnormal direction since an injury over a decade ago. You mentioned that you did not think it was a ...
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
He is most likely suffering from a fungal infection, commonly known as onychomycosis. You should see a dermatologist for treatment. Wishing you peace, Jesus loves you.[Read More] Understanding Nail Growth Issues: Is Your Toenail Displaced?
Identifying Insect Bites: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
What kind of insect bite is this? Recently, I noticed a red, swollen area on my arm in the morning, approximately 5 to 7 centimeters wide and oval-shaped, with a small mark in the center that resembles an insect bite. Initially, pressing on the swollen area was painful, but by th...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
This is an immune response after an insect bite, which does not require special treatment and will resolve on its own over time, as long as you avoid scratching it to prevent bacterial infection complications. If it becomes excessively itchy, painful, or shows signs of pus or ulc...[Read More] Identifying Insect Bites: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Treatment Options for Athlete's Foot and Nail Fungus
Treatment for athlete's foot? Symptoms: I have athlete's foot and onychomycosis (fungal nail infection) that have been treated at a general clinic. I have taken antifungal medication for several months, taking one tablet per week, but I am unsure what the medication is....
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
You are taking an antifungal medication. If your symptoms have not improved after several months of treatment, continuing the medication may not be meaningful. Possible reasons include: 1. You may have other non-fungal skin conditions in addition to athlete's foot, and your ...[Read More] Understanding Treatment Options for Athlete's Foot and Nail Fungus
Understanding Tinea: Treatment Duration and Medication Explained
Regarding skin fungus? I visited a dermatology clinic because my buttocks were constantly itchy, and even after improvement, it recurred. The doctor diagnosed it as tinea, but he mentioned in a book that continuous medication for fourteen days is necessary for a complete cure. Is...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
1. Antifungal medications. 2. Antihistamines (for itching relief). 3. Antifungal + antibacterial + corticosteroids. To be precise, the term "cure" should be used instead of "eradicate." Given the climate in Taiwan, it's uncertain whether one might experie...[Read More] Understanding Tinea: Treatment Duration and Medication Explained
Understanding Pigmentary Atrophy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Pigmentary atrophy Hello, doctor! My question is long and complicated, like an old woman's foot binding, and I hope you can forgive my ignorance! Doctor: My girlfriend (18 years old) has white spots around both of her eyes that extend outward, resembling the black areas of a...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, pigment abnormalities include hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and uneven pigmentation. Some pigment issues may gradually resolve over time or can be treated with topical medications, while others may require laser therapy or chemical peels for impr...[Read More] Understanding Pigmentary Atrophy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Molluscum Contagiosum: Treatment Options and Recovery Insights
Molluscum contagiosum Hello Doctor: Today I visited a dermatologist, and the doctor said I have molluscum contagiosum. He applied a solution that looks like iodine to the lesions. However, he mentioned that there is no medication I can apply myself, and I need to come back every ...
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello, Ah Hong: If you have any questions regarding your health, you can consult your treating physician in person, which can immediately resolve your concerns. Warts are a viral infection of the skin, similar to the common cold; the condition can resolve on its own, but if you d...[Read More] Understanding Molluscum Contagiosum: Treatment Options and Recovery Insights