Persistent Fever: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention?
Fever I have had a continuous fever for two days, with a temperature of 37.3 degrees Celsius. I saw a doctor yesterday who prescribed antipyretics, and I took one dose yesterday and another today, but the fever persists. I also have cold symptoms and a cough. Do I need to see a d...
Dr. Chen Mengkan Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, it is not possible to determine whether you need to visit a major hospital. However, I would recommend that you first consult with the physician you previously saw for an evaluation to check if there are any improvements in other clinic...[Read More] Persistent Fever: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention?
Is It Back Pain or Kidney Pain? Understanding Your Symptoms
Is it lower back pain or kidney pain? Hello Dr. Lai: Recently, I have been experiencing a lot of pain near my lower back. My friends say it might be related to my kidneys. Due to work commitments, I haven't been drinking much water and often hold my urine. Lately, the pain n...
Dr. Lai Junlong Reply:
Hello: Most cases of lower back pain are not related to kidney issues. If there is no swelling, it is advisable to drink more water. Kidney pain may originate from back muscle strain or nerve pain, and it could also be due to kidney stones. If there is an infection in the urinary...[Read More] Is It Back Pain or Kidney Pain? Understanding Your Symptoms
Concerns About Viral and Bacterial Infections After Playing Volleyball
Regarding viral or bacterial infections (I apologize, but I have some more questions to ask the doctor)? Hello, doctor. I apologize for bothering you, but I have a question. I'm not sure if it was an insect bite or something else that bit me. I also wonder if it could be pos...
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan Reply:
Hello: Perhaps I didn't explain clearly, which made you worry. Let me clarify in another way. Hepatitis B and C are bloodborne infectious diseases, as they are transmitted directly through blood exposure and are not spread by insects. For instance, if a mosquito bites a pers...[Read More] Concerns About Viral and Bacterial Infections After Playing Volleyball
Understanding Viral Infections: Symptoms, Risks, and Transmission Routes
Viral infection A few days ago, my boyfriend suddenly experienced unexplained swelling and pain on one side of his cheek, followed by a sore throat and vomiting. Although he has since received medical treatment, he needs to be hospitalized for observation. When I asked about his ...
Dr. Lai Junlong Reply:
Hello: The physician's diagnosis may be an infection with the "varicella-zoster virus," which is a type of herpes virus that is the same as the chickenpox virus encountered in childhood. If one has had chickenpox and recovered, the virus can remain dormant in the d...[Read More] Understanding Viral Infections: Symptoms, Risks, and Transmission Routes
Navigating Chronic Pain: Seeking Answers Beyond Traditional Medicine
White mouse Hello Dr. Chen, Four years ago, I experienced a sudden onset of severe back pain during the winter, which left me unable to get out of bed. Over the past four years, I have consulted various orthopedic specialists who have stated that there is no significant issue. ...
Dr. Chen Mengkan Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms you have described, it is still unclear what is causing your discomfort. I would recommend that you organize your symptoms, including the frequency of episodes, any aggravating or alleviating factors, and the location of associated pain. Then, consult...[Read More] Navigating Chronic Pain: Seeking Answers Beyond Traditional Medicine
Understanding the Impact of Bacterial Infection on Head Pain and Cognitive Function
Inquiry 1. What symptoms may occur if bacteria enter the head? For example, headaches or a dazed appearance of the face! 2. When I was in high school, my mother had me take traditional Chinese medicine pills to help with my myopia. One night, I woke up in the early morning and ...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Ms. Yu, Regarding your question, first of all, bacterial infections are typically acute issues and are unlikely to persist for ten to twenty years. Therefore, if your current condition is similar to what it was twenty years ago, it is unlikely to be the result of a bacteria...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Bacterial Infection on Head Pain and Cognitive Function
Alternatives to Water for Staying Hydrated When Sick with a Cold
Common cold My friend really dislikes drinking plain water and finds it unpleasant, but she has a cold recently. Is there anything she can drink as a substitute?
Dr. Cai Ruiyuan Reply:
Generally, any beverages are acceptable. The purpose of drinking plenty of water when having a cold is to replenish the fluids lost during a fever and to help thin mucus, making it easier to cough. If there is a sore throat, it is best to provide isotonic solutions; diluted sport...[Read More] Alternatives to Water for Staying Hydrated When Sick with a Cold
Sudden Weight Loss: What Medical Tests Should You Consider?
Significant weight loss? Hello, I would like to ask what specialty I should see if I have suddenly lost over 10 kilograms within a year, going from 50 kg to around 39-40 kg. I experience stomach pain (cramping) and sometimes have cold sweats and fever, and the pain can be severe ...
Dr. Wang Zhengzhong Reply:
Hello: Regarding your question - [You have suddenly lost over 10 kilograms in the past year, going from 50 kg to around 39-40 kg. What specialty should you see? You experience stomach pain (cramping) and also have cold sweats and fever, sometimes to the point of vomiting... If yo...[Read More] Sudden Weight Loss: What Medical Tests Should You Consider?
Understanding Severe Headaches, Fever, and Weakness: A Guide for Patients
Headache, fever, weakness? I started experiencing headaches a few days ago, and I can feel pain around my eyes near the brow bone. At first, I didn't think much of it, but the headaches became more severe (it felt like my head was about to explode), and I started feeling wea...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Hello Ms. Miao Miao: Regarding your symptoms, if you have had a fever for more than three days or if the fever does not subside with medication, it is best to go to the hospital for an examination. Do not rely solely on acetaminophen to reduce the fever, as it may be caused by a ...[Read More] Understanding Severe Headaches, Fever, and Weakness: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Counts in Elderly Patients
White blood cell count ranging from 16,000 to 40,000? My father-in-law has been hospitalized since May 5 due to fever, with a white blood cell count of 20,000. He has a urinary tract infection, aspiration pneumonia, and has suffered multiple strokes. After treatment, he was disch...
Dr. Chen Zonglin Reply:
I believe your father-in-law's attending physician has been very diligent in providing treatment. Although various tests have not revealed the cause, it is reasonable to seek a reassessment at another hospital. You may discuss this delicately with the chief physician. As for...[Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Counts in Elderly Patients
Exploring Chronic Pain: Insights on Possible Lupus and Treatment Options
Thank you and I have a follow-up question? Dr. Tsai is very grateful for your response, and I have thoroughly researched your suggestions. There seems to be a possibility of lupus (I dare not make assumptions and will seek medical attention). I have been seeking treatment primari...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, the medications you are taking include general pain relievers such as paracetamol and muscle relaxants. If your pain is bearable, please try to endure it, as pain medications can lead to increased dosages over time. I recommend that you try gentle stretching exercises in t...[Read More] Exploring Chronic Pain: Insights on Possible Lupus and Treatment Options
Understanding the Myths of Big Hospitals: A Patient's Perspective
The Myths of Large Hospitals Dear Dr. Tsai, First of all, thank you for taking the time to read this letter. I believe that those who ask questions online are often confused and seeking answers either before or during their medical treatment. I frequently see dedicated doctors a...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Based on your age and medical history, it is difficult to make an accurate assessment due to the lack of 1. medication records 2. occupation or job history 3. past examination results 4. family medical history. It is suspected that a physician may consider 1. rheumatoid ar...[Read More] Understanding the Myths of Big Hospitals: A Patient's Perspective
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Bleeding during bowel movements? For two years, I experienced rectal bleeding for the first time, which was bright red, and I also had constipation. I thought it was hemorrhoids, but after the bleeding, I started having a high fever that wouldn't subside, eventually leading ...
Dr. Lai Junlong Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, experiencing bleeding during bowel movements is something that should not be ignored. There are many possible causes, including hemorrhoidal bleeding, anal fissures, or growths in the intestines. The hospital where you were last admitted shoul...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Persistent Fever Without Other Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help?
Persistent or intermittent fever without other symptoms for an extended period? Hello Dr. Tsai, 1. On May 24th, I experienced an unexplained high fever (38°C - 38.6°C). Aside from a headache, I had no other discomfort or symptoms such as soreness, pain, or cough, and my energy a...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Your issue should be addressed at a major hospital for blood tests and X-ray examinations. Persistent fever combined with respiratory symptoms may indicate pneumonia; however, since you also have gastrointestinal symptoms, it could be a viral infection such as enterovirus....[Read More] Persistent Fever Without Other Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help?
Chills Followed by Fever: Understanding Unexplained Symptoms
Chills followed by fever? Hello, I would like to ask about a situation where there are no cold symptoms like coughing or runny nose, but suddenly I feel chills, as if the cold is coming from within my body. I am shivering and experiencing full-body aches and weakness. After more ...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Both viral and bacterial infections can cause fluctuations in body temperature. If you are unable to manage this, it is advisable to seek assistance from a physician at a hospital. Thank you for your inquiry, and I hope the above information helps address your concerns. Dr...[Read More] Chills Followed by Fever: Understanding Unexplained Symptoms
Understanding Complications in Diabetes: Addressing Symptoms and Concerns
Diabetes mellitus Hello Dr. Tsai: My father is a diabetic patient. Two weeks ago, he underwent amputation of both big toes due to poor healing of a wound on his right big toe, following the doctor's advice. Over the past two weeks, he has experienced intermittent fever and p...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Diabetic patients often experience poor peripheral circulation, which makes wounds difficult to heal and can lead to recurrent infections, necessitating amputation. Sometimes, even after surgery, wounds remain susceptible to bacterial infections. If the patient also has ot...[Read More] Understanding Complications in Diabetes: Addressing Symptoms and Concerns
Is This Fever Normal or a Sign of Gastrointestinal Issues?
Is this a common fever? Hello Doctor: Two days ago, I experienced occasional pain at the top of my head, along with dizziness. My shoulders and neck felt sore when moving, and I had a fever (most noticeable in my palms and soles, but my head felt fine). I measured my temperature,...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Your headache and dizziness are likely caused by a fever, which may be due to 1. acute gastroenteritis or 2. infectious enteritis. Typically, this condition improves after fasting for 8 hours. However, if the fever persists and you continue to have diarrhea, you must go to...[Read More] Is This Fever Normal or a Sign of Gastrointestinal Issues?
Potential Side Effects of Repeated Oral Sabin Vaccine Administration
Will repeated administration of the oral Sabin vaccine cause any additional side effects? Hello, could you please tell me if there are any additional side effects from repeated administration of the oral Sabin vaccine? My nephew (first grader at Sanjhih Elementary School) receive...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: The purpose of administering the Sabin vaccine is to stimulate our bodies to produce antibodies, and the dosage is, of course, kept within a safe range. Repeated vaccinations were actually considered during the initial design of the vaccine. The vaccine itself is a live at...[Read More] Potential Side Effects of Repeated Oral Sabin Vaccine Administration
Understanding the HIV Window Period: Do You Need Another Test?
HIV window period If I had a high-risk sexual encounter in September 2004 and then underwent anonymous testing in June 2005 with a negative result, the nurse who called me informed me that I did not need to get tested again (as there were no further high-risk encounters during th...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: The process of AIDS development is described as follows: 1. Viral infection (through intimate contact with an AIDS patient or via blood transmission). 2. There is a window period of at least 6 to 12 weeks after HIV infection before antibodies can be detected through blood ...[Read More] Understanding the HIV Window Period: Do You Need Another Test?
Understanding Red Spots and Fever in Limbs: A Family Medicine Perspective
Red spots on the limbs and fever that has subsided? Red spots appear on the body but are not itchy, located on the limbs, and there are occasional fever and chills. They resolve on their own! This condition has lasted for a week. Two weeks ago, there was a urinary tract infection...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Skin lesions occurring on the limbs that resolve spontaneously usually indicate an allergic reaction. Once the allergen is removed, the skin lesions improve. Your condition may be triggered by medication or food. As for the fluctuating temperatures, it is likely caused by ...[Read More] Understanding Red Spots and Fever in Limbs: A Family Medicine Perspective