Can You Get Infected from a Band-Aid Found in the Ocean?
Disease transmission Hello Dr. Chen: Today my boyfriend found a band-aid in the seawater. I would like to ask if there is a risk of infection from any diseases? Also, if that band-aid was used to cover a wound of an HIV-positive patient, is there a risk of contracting HIV? Thank ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, netizen: In your message, you mentioned that your boyfriend found a bandage in the seawater. Generally, it is important to assess whether your boyfriend's skin had any cuts or wounds when he came into contact with that bandage and the seawater. If there are wounds, ba...[Read More] Can You Get Infected from a Band-Aid Found in the Ocean?
Traveling to High Altitudes: Is It Safe for Stroke Survivors?
Regarding stroke and high-altitude travel? Dear Dr. Gao, My mother has a history of minor strokes and is considering a trip to Lijiang, Kunming in mainland China. However, since Kunming is at a high altitude with thin air, I would like to ask if it is safe for her to participate...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Mr. Wang: Hello, it is advisable to seek evaluation from a physician at the Family Medicine Clinic or the Travel Medicine Clinic. Thank you, and wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Gao Qingyun, Attending Physician, Family Medicine Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Minis...[Read More] Traveling to High Altitudes: Is It Safe for Stroke Survivors?
Understanding Dizziness and Weakness: Is It Low Blood Pressure or Something Else?
Is it low blood pressure or is there a problem with the body? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a situation where I feel a sudden blackout and my body feels weak when I stand up after sitting or squatting for a long time. Is this related to low blood pressure or fatigue? If...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Hello, many individuals with normal health may also experience similar symptoms. However, patients with orthostatic hypotension, anemia, or autonomic dysfunction may also present with similar symptoms. It is recommended that you seek evaluation and treatment from a family medicin...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Weakness: Is It Low Blood Pressure or Something Else?
Unsure Which Specialist to See for Unusual Symptoms? Here's Guidance
I am feeling unwell and I'm not sure which department to consult. I would like to inquire about referral options? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing the following symptoms and would like to know which specialty I should consult for an examination. 1. Smelling...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Wei Wei, Hello, I recommend that you first visit a family medicine department for diagnosis and discussion with a physician, and I suggest a referral to other specialty care. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Gao Qingyun Attending Physician, Family Medici...[Read More] Unsure Which Specialist to See for Unusual Symptoms? Here's Guidance
Which Medical Specialty to Consult for Excessive Sweating?
If you experience excessive sweating, you should consult a dermatologist? Hello, I am someone who sweats a lot, and excessive sweating has caused me difficulties in both my personal and professional life. Since my time in the military, I would break a sweat and leave a noticeable...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Hello, as the weather gets hotter, these issues are becoming more common and severe. Before seeking assistance from a physician, it is advisable to confirm the following: 1. Check if the environment is indeed excessively hot or poorly ventilated. If so, it is best to avoid prolon...[Read More] Which Medical Specialty to Consult for Excessive Sweating?
Will Drinking Whiskey Before Health Check Affect Test Results?
Health Checkup Items I apologize, but I would like to ask if this afternoon I had a liver and gallbladder blood test, urine test, and a general blood health check. I just remembered that I had two or three small glasses of whiskey at a wedding banquet yesterday afternoon. Will th...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear User, In your message, you mentioned that you consumed two to three small glasses of whiskey before your blood and urine tests during your health check-up. Generally speaking, the consumption of alcoholic beverages can slightly affect the liver and biliary system blood test...[Read More] Will Drinking Whiskey Before Health Check Affect Test Results?
Can Laundry Detergent Kill Rabies Virus? Expert Insights Explained
Rabies virus Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a question regarding the rabies virus: Can laundry detergent kill the rabies virus?
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Jason: The rabies virus is sensitive to temperature; heating it to 100°C for 2 minutes, 60°C for 30 minutes, or 40°C for 2 hours can inactivate the virus. Additionally, the virus is also sensitive to sunlight, ultraviolet light, and ultrasound. Chemical agents such as formal...[Read More] Can Laundry Detergent Kill Rabies Virus? Expert Insights Explained
Shortness of Breath: Should You See a Cardiologist or Pulmonologist?
Shortness of breath? If you suddenly experience shortness of breath, should you see a cardiologist or a pulmonologist? Thank you.
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Vivian: There are many causes of dyspnea and asthma, and the differential diagnoses vary with age and gender. It is recommended to consult a specialist in family medicine or pulmonology for evaluation. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Gao Qingyun, Attending Phys...[Read More] Shortness of Breath: Should You See a Cardiologist or Pulmonologist?
Ankle Sprain Dilemma: Choosing Between Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine
Ankle sprain About two months ago, I accidentally sprained my ankle while going up the stairs, and it felt quite severe. The bruising around my ankle extended to about two-thirds of the area. I had an X-ray done, and fortunately, there were no fractures. The bruising has subsided...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, internet user: During the acute phase of an ankle sprain, it is essential to apply ice to reduce swelling, for about 2 days. During this acute phase, you should follow four principles: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) to quickly reduce swelling and minimize pre...[Read More] Ankle Sprain Dilemma: Choosing Between Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine
Can Laundry Detergents Kill Rabies Virus on Contaminated Clothing?
Questions regarding the rabies virus? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if the surfactant components in laundry detergent can kill the rabies virus. I have a pair of pants that got contaminated with saliva or nasal secretions from a stray dog, and I'm really worried about w...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello, internet user: The rabies virus has poor survival capabilities outside of living animals. It quickly loses its activity in the presence of surfactants, strong acids and bases, formaldehyde, iodine tincture, ether, soap solutions, and detergents. Additionally, it is extreme...[Read More] Can Laundry Detergents Kill Rabies Virus on Contaminated Clothing?
Understanding Scalp Twitching: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Scalp twitching? Hello: Recently, I have been experiencing a sensation of my scalp twitching while walking, similar to the feeling of muscles in my scalp contracting. I would like to ask a few questions: 1. Does the scalp have muscles? 2. Does twitching of the scalp indicate any ...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear George, Hello. The anatomical structure of the scalp includes the fascial layer, but the pulsation you are referring to is likely the pulsation of the scalp blood vessels. This can sometimes be felt during episodes of unstable blood pressure or specific types of headaches. ...[Read More] Understanding Scalp Twitching: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Concerns About Rabies After Encountering a Stray Dog in Taiwan
Questions about rabies? Hello, doctor. Today while I was out shopping, I was sitting on my scooter scrolling through my phone when I noticed a stray dog by my feet. I'm not sure if the dog touched my foot with its nose or mouth. I was wearing flip-flops at the time. When I g...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Xiao Xin, Hello, most cases of rabies occur after being bitten by a rabid animal, where the virus is transmitted through the infected saliva. Infection can also occur through contact with virus-containing tissues or saliva via wounds or mucous membranes. If there are no obv...[Read More] Concerns About Rabies After Encountering a Stray Dog in Taiwan
Understanding Elevated SGPT Levels: What You Need to Know
Aminotransferase Hello Doctor: I recently had a company health check, and the report shows that my serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) level is highlighted in red. The reference range is 0-55, and my test result is 74. Could you please let me know what this indicates abo...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear User, Regarding your inquiry about the health check report, the serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) generally reflects liver function. Your SGPT level is slightly above the reference standard but does not reach twice the upper limit, so there is no need for excessi...[Read More] Understanding Elevated SGPT Levels: What You Need to Know
Effective Ways to Slim Your Face: Tips for Weight Management
Weight issues Hello: I am 167 cm tall and weigh 65 kg. I feel that my face is quite chubby, which bothers me a lot. I would like to know if there are any ways to slim down my face.
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear [Name], Regarding the facial edema, it is essential to evaluate for any underlying systemic diseases. I recommend discussing this with a family medicine physician. Once systemic diseases are ruled out, you may consider weight loss. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely...[Read More] Effective Ways to Slim Your Face: Tips for Weight Management
Swollen and Warm Upper Lip: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Swelling and heat in the upper lip? Hello Doctor: My upper lip has been feeling warm since yesterday, and this morning I noticed that it is red and swollen. I would like to ask what might be causing this reaction. I have had cold symptoms in the past few days and have taken medic...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Winnie, I recommend that you bring the medications you have been taking over the past two days back to your original physician for discussion. If you are unable to consult with your original physician, you may take these medications to a family medicine or dermatology phys...[Read More] Swollen and Warm Upper Lip: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Weight Loss: Is It Physical or Mental Health Issues?
I can't distinguish whether it's a physiological issue or depression-related anxiety? Hello, doctor. I am an 18-year-old college student. Over the past two years, I have lost about 10 kilograms, but I did not intentionally lose weight; I just feel that my appetite is no...
Dr. Chen Zonglin Reply:
There are many reasons for weight loss. You may start by keeping a food diary for a period of time and then bring your previous medical reports to the school health office to consult with the school physician. If there is no school physician available, you can also visit a nearby...[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss: Is It Physical or Mental Health Issues?
Are Blood Collection Vacuum Tubes Single-Use Only?
Vacutainer for blood collection Hello, doctor: Are the vacuum tubes used for blood draws in hospitals single-use only? I know that the needles are, but I'm not sure about the vacuum tubes. Today, when I had my blood drawn, I noticed something that looked like water stains on...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Min-Min, Hello, all the blood collection needles and blood collection tubes used in our hospital are single-use disposable items. The small amount of liquid you see in the purple-top tube is an anticoagulant, designed for subsequent blood cell testing, so there is no need f...[Read More] Are Blood Collection Vacuum Tubes Single-Use Only?
Effective Weight Loss Strategies: Insights from Family Medicine
Weight issues Hello: I am 167 cm tall and weigh 63 kg. I feel like I'm gaining weight no matter what I eat. I would like to know what options Western medicine offers to help with weight loss. Are weight loss clinics all out-of-pocket expenses? Will they be effective?
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear [Name], Hello! Currently, your body mass index (BMI) is 22.6, which is not classified as overweight. There is no need for weight loss; please maintain a balanced diet and engage in moderate exercise. Thank you! Wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Gao Qing...[Read More] Effective Weight Loss Strategies: Insights from Family Medicine
Understanding Tetanus: When to Get Vaccinated After an Injury
The issue of tetanus? Hello: My father was punctured in the finger by a rusty metal object last Saturday, resulting in bleeding. The wound is a small round dot, approximately 0.1 cm deep. I would like to ask: 1. Given the above situation, should he receive a tetanus shot? 2. Unde...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Peter, For adults who have not received a tetanus vaccination in the past ten years, all wounds that compromise skin integrity should be considered for early tetanus vaccination. However, your father's wound needs to be assessed in person to determine if a vaccination ...[Read More] Understanding Tetanus: When to Get Vaccinated After an Injury
Understanding Your Health Check: Interpreting Alcohol Levels in Test Results
Please ask your question? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask about the health examination report. The ethanol level is 49 mg/dL, with a reference value of 50, and hemolysis is 3+ (instrument: Alcohol). Can this report be interpreted as indicating the presence of alcohol, or is it...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Xiao Jun, Hello. In medical practice, it is advisable to attach the complete report when interpreting laboratory results. If there is a hemolyzed specimen, efforts should be made to resend the specimen whenever possible, or to discuss with laboratory professionals if necess...[Read More] Understanding Your Health Check: Interpreting Alcohol Levels in Test Results