Understanding Multiple Health Issues: A Guide for Patients During COVID-19
Experiencing multiple physical discomforts and not knowing where to start? Since the level 3 alert, I have experienced many physical discomforts, ranging from gastroenteritis to autonomic nervous system disorders. I have visited the family medicine clinic several times. Initially...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: Based on your letter, it is difficult to accurately respond to your questions. Regarding issues such as chest pain and back pain, if they are not caused by a specific illness (which requires further examination to determine), you may improve your condition by increasing ph...[Read More] Understanding Multiple Health Issues: A Guide for Patients During COVID-19
Is Soaking Zinc Gluconate Tablets Safe? Risks and Considerations
Issues with Zinc Tablets I have been concerned about the virus, so recently I have been soaking Zinc Gluconate tablets in hot water before taking them. I am unsure if there is any risk of toxicity, and I have been doing this for four days.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Zinc is an essential mineral; many enzymes required for biochemical reactions in the body contain trace amounts of zinc, which aids in metabolic processes. Numerous health supplements claim to enhance the immune system, accelerate wound healing, reduce disease risk, assist in ...[Read More] Is Soaking Zinc Gluconate Tablets Safe? Risks and Considerations
Will My Online Package Still Carry COVID-19 After Disinfection?
SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) Hello, doctor! I have an online shopping package that was shipped by the seller on June 18th, and I opened it on June 22nd. I have already sprayed the outside of the box with alcohol. My question is, will there still be...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! According to relevant studies, the COVID-19 virus can survive on cardboard for approximately 24 hours, but this finding comes from laboratory research and may not fully reflect real-world conditions. Factors such as temperature and humidity also need to be considered. This...[Read More] Will My Online Package Still Carry COVID-19 After Disinfection?
Unexpected Fever: Understanding Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Unexplained fever for one night? Hello doctor, I would like to ask you something. My usual body temperature at work is around 36.1°C, but last night I suddenly had a fever with an ear temperature of 38.5°C. Today, my temperature has been around 37.3°C. I don't have any other...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing symptoms of an acute infection, so having a fever is a reasonable manifestation. Typically, the fever may last for about three days and then gradually subside. If your symptoms are improving, please continue to take ...[Read More] Unexpected Fever: Understanding Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Persistent Fever Above 37.2°C for Two Weeks: When to Seek Medical Help?
A body temperature above 37.2°C for two consecutive weeks? Thank you, doctor, for your response despite your busy schedule! I started experiencing headaches, skin itching, and a temperature ranging from 37.4 to 36.8 degrees Celsius since May 14, which has continued until today (M...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, You mentioned that you have a slightly elevated body temperature, accompanied by fatigue, a headache, and a sore throat. Given these symptoms during the pandemic, if they persist, it is advisable to contact your local health department to arrange for an appointment at a ...[Read More] Persistent Fever Above 37.2°C for Two Weeks: When to Seek Medical Help?
Managing Fever and Flu: Is It Safe to Self-Treat with Antiviral Medications?
Fever, influenza? In the past week, I experienced fever that fluctuated, reaching a high of 38.4°C on Monday. For several days, my temperature was around 37.5°C to 36.9°C, but today, Saturday, it has risen again to a high of 38.3°C and remains around 38.1°C. Since I have very mil...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
If you are experiencing a persistent fever, please seek medical evaluation at a hospital as soon as possible. It is not advisable to self-medicate, as this can protect neither yourself nor others. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot prov...[Read More] Managing Fever and Flu: Is It Safe to Self-Treat with Antiviral Medications?
Risk of COVID-19 Infection from Minor Finger Wound in Public Interactions
A small wound between the fingers may pose a risk of infection, especially if you come into contact with various individuals in your work. However, the primary mode of transmission for the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is through respiratory droplets, rather than through open wounds. ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Egg Yolk: 1. The World Health Organization (WHO) refers to the disease caused by the novel coronavirus as COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019), while the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses has designated the virus's scientific name as SARS-CoV-2 (Sever...[Read More] Risk of COVID-19 Infection from Minor Finger Wound in Public Interactions
Understanding Throat Symptoms: Thyroid Issues and COVID-19 Concerns
I would like to ask what symptoms are associated with the throat? I have hyperthyroidism, but my test results are all normal. Recently, my heart rate reached a maximum of 160 beats per minute, making it impossible for me to walk. Currently, I am being treated with medication for ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! The protruding area is likely lymphoid tissue, but it cannot specify the type of infection. If you are at risk, it is recommended that you follow the regulations and guidelines of your local health authorities for screening.[Read More] Understanding Throat Symptoms: Thyroid Issues and COVID-19 Concerns
Is It Normal to Have a Slight Fever After AZ Vaccine?
After receiving the AZ vaccine, the body temperature may be elevated? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask, I received the AstraZeneca vaccine a week ago, and my current body temperature fluctuates between 37.2 and 37.8 degrees Celsius (my usual temperature is between 35.8 and 36.5...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Yu: 1. The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that contains the gene for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S protein) delivered via an adenovirus vector. 2. Possible reactions after vaccination primarily include pain and swelling at the ...[Read More] Is It Normal to Have a Slight Fever After AZ Vaccine?
Is Chest Pain and Limb Numbness Due to Anxiety or Something Else?
Is chest pain and numbness in the left arm and leg due to anxiety? Hello Doctor, I started experiencing sudden chest pain in the middle of my chest on the night of May 26th. It was most painful that night, to the point where I couldn't tolerate it and took a Tylenol. After a...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Lee: 1. Based on your statements, the likelihood of myocardial ischemia, coronary artery disease, stroke, aortic dissection, pneumothorax, pulmonary embolism, spinal nerve root pathology, or musculoskeletal disorders is very low. Of course, a diagnosis cannot be establ...[Read More] Is Chest Pain and Limb Numbness Due to Anxiety or Something Else?
Understanding the Link Between COVID-19 and Mitral Valve Prolapse Symptoms
Symptoms related to COVID-19 and mitral valve prolapse? Hello, Dr. Hsiao. I have symptoms of mitral valve prolapse, which sometimes cause palpitations, chest tightness, and shortness of breath, leading to panic attacks that result in laryngeal constriction, nasal congestion, whee...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Xiaoyue: 1. Due to the lack of exposure history and not being included in contact tracing, the likelihood of being eligible for government-funded COVID-19 testing is very low. If you wish to undergo testing at your own expense, the cost is approximately NT$5,000 to NT$...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between COVID-19 and Mitral Valve Prolapse Symptoms
Timing Your HPV and COVID Vaccines: What You Need to Know
Inquiry about the interval between the COVID-19 vaccine and the HPV vaccine? Hello, doctor. I received the first dose of the HPV vaccine in April and plan to get the second dose in June and the third dose in October. I would like to inquire about the COVID-19 vaccine, which I est...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! "COVID-19 vaccines are not recommended to be administered simultaneously with other vaccines. It is currently advised to complete the full two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine before receiving other vaccines. During the waiting period for the second dose, it is also not ...[Read More] Timing Your HPV and COVID Vaccines: What You Need to Know
Understanding Forehead Temperature Readings During COVID-19
Elevated forehead temperature? Doctor, with the recent severe outbreak, I have to take my temperature every day when I go to work. However, my forehead thermometer often shows a temperature between 37°C and 37.9°C, while my regular thermometer reads over 34°C. I don't feel u...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! It is recommended to check your forehead temperature only after confirming that you have not been exposed to high temperatures or worn a safety helmet, as these factors may affect the results. Please try to avoid such situations. Additionally, there are other factors that ...[Read More] Understanding Forehead Temperature Readings During COVID-19
Understanding Gastroenteritis Symptoms and COVID-19 Testing Concerns
COVID-19 Hello Doctor, I started experiencing diarrhea two weeks ago and visited the doctor on May 17. The doctor diagnosed me with acute gastroenteritis. After starting medication, I noticed some improvement. On May 25, I had my first normal bowel movement, but I went to the bat...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Currently, a diagnosis cannot be made through consultation alone. Please recall if there are any foods in your diet that may affect your bowel movements, such as spicy foods, greasy foods, or laxative fruits. Additionally, consider whether you have visited any relevant loc...[Read More] Understanding Gastroenteritis Symptoms and COVID-19 Testing Concerns
Understanding Low-Grade Fever with Gastroenteritis: Causes and Concerns
I would like to know if gastroenteritis can cause a persistent low-grade fever? Hello, my issue is a bit complex, and I would appreciate it if the doctor could take some time to listen to my story. 1. On May 7, I decided to visit an orthopedic department at a major hospital due...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on the above description, the issue of gastroenteritis still needs to be properly addressed. The recorded body temperature is within a reasonable range. Additionally, with the recent hot weather, adequate hydration is essential. There should be no concerns regarding ...[Read More] Understanding Low-Grade Fever with Gastroenteritis: Causes and Concerns
Is Frequent Use of Alcohol Spray Harmful to Your Health?
Regarding the use of spray alcohol? Hello doctor, since the pandemic started last year, I have been frequently using alcohol spray products. A few days ago, I heard someone say that excessive inhalation could have negative effects on the body, and it made me a bit uneasy. I would...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Jam: 1. During the COVID-19 pandemic, most people used 75% alcohol spray; to date, there have been no reports of bodily harm. In clinical medicine, there have also been no reported cases or publications indicating harm. 2. Theoretically, alcohol spray disperses and eva...[Read More] Is Frequent Use of Alcohol Spray Harmful to Your Health?
COVID-19 Concerns and Vaccine Preparation: Your Family Medicine Questions
May I ask the doctor? Hello, I would like to ask the doctor two questions. Today, I went to Taipei for the first time in a long while. On the train, there were two or three Black individuals who were only wearing their masks over their mouths and not properly covering their noses...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: The COVID-19 virus is primarily transmitted through droplets or contact. If the two individuals were not sneezing or talking at that time, and you were wearing a mask, along with washing your hands after leaving the train, you should generally be at low risk of infection. ...[Read More] COVID-19 Concerns and Vaccine Preparation: Your Family Medicine Questions
Is It Safe? Doctor's Advice on COVID-19 Risks in Public Spaces
Safety concerns, please ask the doctor? Hello Dr. Wu, I just finished my exam and went out to have fun with my family. Recently, there has been a COVID-19 outbreak, but I only carried my mask with me and wore it while taking public transportation. When we checked into the hotel, ...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: COVID-19 is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets. If you do not encounter strangers at close range, or if the other person is not coughing or speaking, the risk of transmission through droplets is relatively low. However, it is still important to wear a mask ...[Read More] Is It Safe? Doctor's Advice on COVID-19 Risks in Public Spaces
Understanding COVID-19 Transmission Risks in Everyday Situations
Transmission routes of COVID-19? Hello, Doctor. Today, I had the rare opportunity to go out with my mom for lunch and to pray. During lunch, there was a guy at the next table who was coughing towards us. I thought we were about to eat and took off my mask, but my mom told me it w...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: The concerns you have are shared by many people in today's society. Your mother's requests are cautious and correct, especially when it comes to public places. Your first concern is about the boy at the next table coughing and possibly infecting you. This issue i...[Read More] Understanding COVID-19 Transmission Risks in Everyday Situations
Can Bats Transmit Viruses Through Airborne Transmission?
Can bats transmit diseases through the air? Hello doctor, I apologize for the interruption. I live upstairs and heard some noise outside. I opened the window and looked out for about three minutes, and when I looked up before leaving, I noticed a dead bat stuck on the screen (app...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it should not be spread through this means. Taiwan is not an epidemic area. For relevant information, you can refer to the website of the Ministry of Health and Welfare's Centers for Disease Control. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits ...[Read More] Can Bats Transmit Viruses Through Airborne Transmission?