Chronic Sore Throat: Why Isn't My Condition Improving?
Persistent sore throat that does not improve? I have been experiencing a sore throat for two months now. It comes and goes, and I have seen a doctor several times, about five to six visits. I have been taking my medication as prescribed, but it just won't get better.
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, Xiao Dai: Generally, a sore throat is mostly caused by viral infections leading to acute pharyngitis or acute laryngitis, which usually improves within seven to ten days even without medication. In your case, it is important to consider whether it is a bacterial infection ...[Read More] Chronic Sore Throat: Why Isn't My Condition Improving?
What to Do About Sudden Swelling and Pain in the Ankle?
What should I do? Hello, doctor. I have a friend whose right foot suddenly swelled, with redness from the dorsum of the foot to the ankle. It hurts when touched, but there is no fever. Usually, it doesn't itch, and there is only one red spot on the ankle. He noticed it on th...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
If there is a slight redness, it could be folliculitis. If there is also redness and swelling nearby, it may be cellulitis, in which case antibiotics should be taken or administered.[Read More] What to Do About Sudden Swelling and Pain in the Ankle?
Understanding Antibiotic Resistance: Concerns with Frequent Augmentin Use
Antimicrobial resistance Due to my allergic constitution, I easily catch colds whenever the weather is unstable. My symptoms include sore throat, nasal congestion, headache, and sometimes acute pharyngitis. My primary care physician prescribes Augmentin 1g for me. I would like to...
Dr. Xu Li'an Reply:
Dear Cherry Garden, Typically, I do not prescribe antibiotics for acute pharyngitis unless it is acute tonsillitis or there are clear signs of suppuration. Augmentin is an antibiotic that is usually prescribed for patients with pneumonia who are hospitalized or residing in nurs...[Read More] Understanding Antibiotic Resistance: Concerns with Frequent Augmentin Use
Understanding Bacterial Infections: Symptoms, Treatment, and Healing Time
I would like to ask a question? Two months ago, I noticed a small lump in my groin area that was not painful under normal circumstances, but it would hurt when pressed. About three weeks ago, I observed that the lump had enlarged, and the next day it developed into a cyst-like ma...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
If it occurs in the groin area, it may be caused by folliculitis leading to a bacterial infection, which usually requires antibiotic treatment. If it is located in the vulvar area, it may be a Bartholin's gland abscess. Generally, these conditions will heal on their own; how...[Read More] Understanding Bacterial Infections: Symptoms, Treatment, and Healing Time
Understanding Drug Allergies: Can They Change Over Time?
Allergy I started noticing that I was allergic to medications (mostly cold medications) around the fifth or sixth grade. Once, I discussed this issue with a doctor, who analyzed that I might have allergic reactions to anti-inflammatory or analgesic medications. Then, about three ...
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
Esther: You may be allergic to a certain medication (antibiotics and pain relievers are the most common). Not all cold medications cause allergies. It is best to write down the names of the medications you are allergic to (in English) and keep them with you, and inform your docto...[Read More] Understanding Drug Allergies: Can They Change Over Time?
Swelling on Both Sides of Lower Lip: Causes and Treatment Options
Swelling on both sides of the lower lip? Hello, Doctor. I have been taking antibiotics for one month to treat urethritis. After the treatment, I noticed some swelling on both sides of my lower lip, which is somewhat noticeable. I have stopped the medication, but the swelling pers...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, Typically, oral antibiotic treatment for urethritis lasts for one week, and it is only necessary to extend the treatment beyond one week in cases of congenital urethral abnormalities or renal pathologies. The swelling of the lips may be related to the use of anti...[Read More] Swelling on Both Sides of Lower Lip: Causes and Treatment Options
Which Medical Specialty Should I Consult for Persistent Cough?
Which department should I register for? Hello, doctor. Since I caught a cold during the New Year, I have been coughing continuously for almost a month now. I have seen three doctors, one of whom said it was due to enterovirus and allergies. Last week, I went to Mackay Memorial Ho...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Dual, Based on your symptoms, subacute bronchitis is quite likely. Viral upper respiratory infections typically cause spasms within a few days if they are caused by common viruses. However, some viruses (such as the influenza virus) can sometimes invade deeper respiratory t...[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should I Consult for Persistent Cough?
Understanding Antibiotics: Classification, Usage, and Impact on Health
Consulting Family Medicine: Questions about Antibiotics? (1) How many classes of antibiotics are there currently? Is this classification an internationally standardized system, or is it defined by the local health authority? Does a lower number indicate that the antibiotic is wea...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Antibiotics should be used according to a physician's instructions and should not be self-administered. If there are any issues, it is best to consult a doctor.[Read More] Understanding Antibiotics: Classification, Usage, and Impact on Health