Can Using Shared Tissue Increase Infection Risk for Seniors?
Is infection possible? Hello, Dr. Hsiao. Earlier, I took my grandmother to the ENT department mainly because she was experiencing itching in her ears. Since she had a runny nose, I was going to get her some tissues from my bag, but she ended up using the tissues from the dispense...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Wen-Hsin: 1. The primary mode of transmission for the Wuhan pneumonia virus is through direct contact with infected secretions or respiratory droplets. The estimated incubation period is mostly between 1 to 14 days, with the most common duration being around 5 days. Cli...[Read More] Can Using Shared Tissue Increase Infection Risk for Seniors?
Health Concerns: Can I Get Infected from a Small Cut?
Could you please provide more details or specify your question? Hello doctor, I took a shower later than usual yesterday when I got home, and then I thought I would help my family by washing some underwear. This morning, I found out that my brother's underwear was also in th...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello! 1. (1) Cauliflower is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. Your concern about indirect transmission is mitigated by the fact that you wash your hands with soap, which reduces the likelihood of infection. (2) However, since each individual's constitution varie...[Read More] Health Concerns: Can I Get Infected from a Small Cut?
Understanding Night Sweats: Causes and Solutions for Better Sleep
Waking up frequently due to feeling hot during sleep? Hello, doctor. For the past few years, I have frequently woken up at night feeling hot. When I wake up, I can hardly fall back asleep unless I get up and turn on a fan to cool down. When I wake up from the heat, my whole body ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! 1. Based on your description of symptoms such as hot flashes, palpitations, and insomnia, these are similar to manifestations of male menopause. 2. However, since each individual's constitution varies, online consultations cannot provide accurate answers. It is recomm...[Read More] Understanding Night Sweats: Causes and Solutions for Better Sleep
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Mediterranean anemia (also known as thalassemia) Hello, Doctor. I would like to inquire about my son's blood test results from his health check in 2019, which showed the following abnormalities: WBC 6.9 (normal range: 4.8–10.8), RBC* 6.70 (normal range: 4.7–6.1), HgB* 13.6 (...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello, thalassemia is the most common congenital anemia among Taiwanese people. Most patients with thalassemia are actually asymptomatic and are often discovered to have low hemoglobin levels during health check-ups or other blood tests. It is only upon further examination at a h...[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels in Prediabetes: Key Insights
Prediabetes Blood Sugar Issues Hello Dr. Huang: I am 42 years old, with a standard build (166 cm/55 kg). At the beginning of January, my blood donation report indicated a hemoglobin A1c of 6.5, and I was advised to seek medical attention. Two weeks later, I visited the doctor, an...
Dr. Huang Xunying Reply:
Generally, postprandial blood glucose levels are higher than preprandial levels; however, this may vary depending on dietary content and individual factors such as insulin sensitivity and the secretion levels of insulin and glucagon. It is recommended to follow up with your physi...[Read More] Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Levels in Prediabetes: Key Insights
Common Concerns: Neck Pain and Ingesting Small Insects
Please ask your two questions? Hello, Doctor. While watching a video in bed and lying on my stomach, I suddenly turned my head to respond and thought I heard a sound. Although I currently don't feel any discomfort, could it be that my neck bone is broken, or is it just nearb...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Apple: 1. If there is a fracture in the neck, the symptoms are likely to be more severe and pronounced. A sudden turn of the head accompanied by a cracking sound is most likely due to improper posture or chronic arthritis, which can cause the ligaments or tendons aroun...[Read More] Common Concerns: Neck Pain and Ingesting Small Insects
Chronic Headaches and Back Pain: Seeking Solutions for Relief
Severe headache and lower back pain? I have been experiencing chronic headaches (since kindergarten, and they have been getting worse). I previously underwent a brain scan at Gengxin Hospital and an MRI at Taipei Heping Hospital, both of which reported no issues and diagnosed me ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Ko83277, The long-term headache symptoms you described appear to be indicative of severe chronic migraine, which significantly impacts your daily life. If treatment at one hospital has not been effective, you might consider seeking a second opinion at another neurology ...[Read More] Chronic Headaches and Back Pain: Seeking Solutions for Relief
Am I at Risk for Diabetes or Prediabetes? Understanding Symptoms and Tests
Is it diabetes or prediabetes? Hello, I would like to ask you about diabetes. Here are my conditions/test results listed below: [Two and a half years ago] Newborn health check showed fasting blood glucose of 75 mg/dL; liver, kidney, and other tests were normal. [One and a hal...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on the information you provided, there is currently no risk of diabetes, and it is recommended that you follow up in six months. The symptom of dry mouth is quite nonspecific; staying up late and insufficient hydration can both cause dry mouth. It is advisable to ade...[Read More] Am I at Risk for Diabetes or Prediabetes? Understanding Symptoms and Tests
Understanding the Contagiousness of Chickenpox and Blister Infections
The contagiousness of blisters? Hello, doctor. Recently, our school has switched to remote learning due to confirmed cases. Just the day before yesterday, a friend in the dormitory showed me that there was a chickenpox infection on their floor, so they started disinfecting again....
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Gina: 1. Chickenpox (Varicella) refers to the disease caused by the initial infection with the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is most commonly seen in children under the age of 10, although it can occasionally occur in young adults. The early symptoms resemble thos...[Read More] Understanding the Contagiousness of Chickenpox and Blister Infections
Understanding Infection Transmission: Clarifying Myths for Kids
Transmission routes of diseases? Hello, Dr. Hsiao. My son, who is in middle school, has been spreading strange rumors among his classmates, claiming that if someone has a wound, they can get infected with pneumonia or HIV. He scared his younger sister with these false claims whil...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Fang: 1. The pathogens that can attack humans primarily include bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, parasites, rickettsiae, and prions. Their modes of transmission vary, including droplet transmission, airborne transmission, fecal-oral transmission, foodborne transmissi...[Read More] Understanding Infection Transmission: Clarifying Myths for Kids
Recognizing Early Signs of Rabies: What to Watch for During the Incubation Period
Dear Dr. Hsiao: If a patient unfortunately contracts rabies, are there any unusual signs that can be detected during the incubation period before the onset of early symptoms? In 2017, a female patient in Xi'an, China, experienced frequent urination, urgency, numbness in the ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
In 2017, a female patient in Xi'an, China, developed frequent urination, urgency, numbness in the leg where she was bitten by a dog, and back pain after more than 20 days post-bite. After seeing local orthopedic and urology specialists without improvement, her condition wors...[Read More] Recognizing Early Signs of Rabies: What to Watch for During the Incubation Period
Is It a Yeast Infection? Understanding Itchy Genital Symptoms
Is genital itching a sign of a fungal infection? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about my partner's genital symptoms. Could this be a yeast infection? Duration: It has been occurring for two years. Symptoms: Every time after eating beef, chicken, and seafood, there is ...
Dr. Wu Huixiong Reply:
It is recommended that you visit an obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinic to see if any relevant examinations are needed. Thank you, and wish you good health![Read More] Is It a Yeast Infection? Understanding Itchy Genital Symptoms
Do I Need a Tetanus Shot for a Minor Scratch? Expert Advice
Scratching Issues Hello, Doctor. I’m not sure if it’s because I’ve been washing my hands and using alcohol frequently lately, but my skin feels fragile. I accidentally scratched my hand on a wooden board, and now there’s a red mark. I would like to know if I need to go get a teta...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! The tetanus vaccine is effective for 5 to 10 years after administration, so there is no need for a booster shot during that period. Regarding wound care, based on your description, it appears to be a superficial wound, so hydrogen peroxide is not necessary. You can clean i...[Read More] Do I Need a Tetanus Shot for a Minor Scratch? Expert Advice
Leg Cramps at Night: Causes and Solutions for Better Sleep
Calf cramps during the night? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about a problem I've been experiencing for the past five years. I start to feel soreness in my calves around 3 or 4 AM, which comes and goes. It gets better when I bind them with something, but that no longer h...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Ms. Moses, In your letter, you mentioned that you have been experiencing calf cramps while sleeping for the past five years. This could potentially be a case of Restless Legs Syndrome, which may be related to genetic predisposition or deficiencies in certain vitamins and mi...[Read More] Leg Cramps at Night: Causes and Solutions for Better Sleep
Understanding Persistent Itching and Pain in Feet While Walking
Itchy feet while walking? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing itching in my feet while walking for many years (about 6 to 7 years). Sometimes, just walking for less than 5 minutes will trigger the itching, accompanied by a prickling sensation, but there are no rashes. During s...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, if you are experiencing abnormal sensations while walking, it is recommended that you consult a neurologist. Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you a speedy recovery![Read More] Understanding Persistent Itching and Pain in Feet While Walking
Understanding Eye Issues and Headaches: When to Seek Medical Help
Eye problems can sometimes be accompanied by headaches? During regular activities such as reading or using the computer, I do not experience any flashes. However, I notice flashes when I exert myself during bowel movements or while doing deep squats. A year ago, I experienced man...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your inquiry, it is recommended to seek assistance from an ophthalmologist for evaluation. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Eye Issues and Headaches: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Fever, Dizziness, and Night Sweats: A Family Medicine Perspective
Fever, dizziness, night sweats? Hello doctor, I have experienced the following symptoms multiple times during episodes of cold and fever: sudden onset of profuse sweating, a drop in body temperature, tinnitus, blurred vision, and gradually diminishing consciousness. In those mome...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description of experiencing chills and near fainting after a cold and fever, your concerns are valid. If you suspect that medication may be the cause, please compile a list of the medications you have used in the past for your physician's reference. If i...[Read More] Understanding Fever, Dizziness, and Night Sweats: A Family Medicine Perspective
Understanding Itchy Skin: Allergies, Stress, and Mental Health Impact
The skin is very itchy? In the past, during middle school and the first two years of high school, I did not experience skin itching while studying. However, later on, I began to have skin itching. I have a lean physique, and I understand that my lack of itching when I was younger...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! There are many reasons for skin itching, including cold, heat, emotions, and allergens (such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, dust mites, pet dander, cockroaches, etc.), all of which can trigger allergic reactions. Based on your description, there are several potential causes ...[Read More] Understanding Itchy Skin: Allergies, Stress, and Mental Health Impact
Urgent Concerns: Managing Complications After Major Surgery in Elderly Patients
I would like to ask for your help? Hello Doctor: My father was involved in a serious car accident, which resulted in injuries to his left femur and thigh bone, leading to major surgery. At that time, medical technology was not very advanced, so he had an artificial plastic bone i...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
If there is a persistent elevated body temperature, it is recommended to consult an infectious disease specialist to determine if there is an infection issue.[Read More] Urgent Concerns: Managing Complications After Major Surgery in Elderly Patients
Effective Treatments for Gray Hair and Hair Loss: Your Questions Answered
Treatment for gray hair and hair loss? Hello Doctor, my wife and I are both 40 years old. Over the past year, I've noticed an increasing number of white hairs (about several dozen), although I had some since high school. I once saw a health program on television that suggest...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! For hair-related issues, it is recommended that you consult a dermatologist. The effectiveness of nutritional supplements varies from person to person, making it difficult to provide specific advice. Please seek a dermatological diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible![Read More] Effective Treatments for Gray Hair and Hair Loss: Your Questions Answered