Health Risks of Surfactants in Household Cleaning Products
Inquiry about surfactants? Hello, I was using a specialized cleaner for stickers (ingredients: organic solvents, surfactants) and a 3-second adhesive remover (ingredients: hydrocarbons, surfactants). The containers clearly state "Do not intentionally inhale or ingest this pr...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, there are many factors that determine the toxicity level of a substance, including the type of substance and the amount of exposure. The first concern is that the concentration may be very low, resulting in a potentially minimal impact. The second issue is that the circums...[Read More] Health Risks of Surfactants in Household Cleaning Products
Understanding Finger Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Swollen, painful, and shortened fingers? Hello Dr. Chen, I have been experiencing intermittent swelling and pain in the skin around the nails of my fingers (distal phalanges) on both hands for about two months. The pain is not in the joints; it is specifically in the flesh beside...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! It is recommended to first consult a family medicine physician for a professional evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Finger Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Health Risks of Gear Oil and Lubricants on Food Safety
Toxicity of Gear Oil and Lubricating Oil Hello, doctor. After eating cake with my hands, I realized that there were still black stains of gear oil and lubricant on my hands. However, I had washed my hands three times with dish soap before handling the food. Could this pose any ad...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description of the situation, the expected impact on your body should be minimal. However, it is still advisable to monitor for any discomfort symptoms and consider seeking medical evaluation. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-per...[Read More] Health Risks of Gear Oil and Lubricants on Food Safety
Understanding Skin Spots on Fingers and Soles: Melanoma Risks Explained
Skin spots on fingers and soles of the feet? Hello Doctor, I just saw the news that spots on the fingers and soles of the feet could potentially develop into melanoma. I have noticed brown spots on my hands and feet (which have been there for several years) that are irregularly s...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Wei: 1. Melanoma, also known as malignant melanoma, is more commonly found in Caucasians and individuals with fair skin. The primary causative factor is damage from sunlight (ultraviolet radiation). Other contributing factors for melanoma include dysplastic nevi and cer...[Read More] Understanding Skin Spots on Fingers and Soles: Melanoma Risks Explained
Concerns About Swallowing Tape Fragments: What You Need to Know
Ingestion of adhesive tape? Hello Doctor: A few days ago, while eating takeout at home, I noticed that my hands had some adhesive tape fragments from the food packaging. Since I used my hands to eat, I am concerned that I might have accidentally swallowed some of the tape. Is it ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, in the situation described, transparent tape is generally not digestible and should theoretically be expelled from the body. However, it is indeed difficult to observe the actual situation. If you experience any discomfort, it is important to seek medical attention. Online...[Read More] Concerns About Swallowing Tape Fragments: What You Need to Know
Understanding Frequent Hunger: Is It Diabetes or Something Else?
I've been feeling hungry very easily lately? Doctor, I've been feeling very hungry lately. Even after a full meal, I start feeling hungry again in less than half an hour. I still feel hungry even when I'm full. I consulted with a health advisor over the phone, and ...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello Miss Xiao Ling, there are many possible causes for this, so it is recommended to visit a hospital for examination.[Read More] Understanding Frequent Hunger: Is It Diabetes or Something Else?
Concerns About Self-Transmission of STDs After Minor Injury
Infectious issues? Hello, Dr. Hsiao. Yesterday, while trimming my nails, I accidentally broke the skin. Although it stopped bleeding this morning and I applied some medication, I still feel a slight pain when using hydrogen peroxide, indicating that there might still be a wound. ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Lin: 1. The term "cauliflower" refers to skin lesions in the genital or perineal area caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). These lesions are almost exclusively transmitted through sexual contact. It is highly unlikely for this condition to...[Read More] Concerns About Self-Transmission of STDs After Minor Injury
Managing Mild Numbness in Hands and Feet After Alcohol Inhalation
Mild tingling sensation in the hands and feet? Hello Doctor, yesterday while cleaning the mattress with 75% alcohol, I leaned in to check for any lingering odors and inadvertently inhaled a significant amount of alcohol. A few minutes later, I began to experience shortness of bre...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Mr. Dawei: You are experiencing dizziness and intermittent mild numbness in your hands and feet due to inhaling a significant amount of alcohol. It is recommended to open the doors and windows for ventilation, take deep breaths, and drink plenty of plain water (at least 250...[Read More] Managing Mild Numbness in Hands and Feet After Alcohol Inhalation
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 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
Concerns About Rabies Transmission in a Medical Clinic Setting
Worried about being infected with rabies? On May 8th, I visited a clinic for a cold, and the patient in front of me was receiving treatment for a dog bite. I would like to know if there is a risk of contracting rabies if I touched the area he had touched, and if he had any viruse...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, the chances of infection in the above situation should be minimal. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Concerns About Rabies Transmission in a Medical Clinic Setting
Understanding Anemia: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Treatment
Health examination issues (anemia/platelet abnormalities) Hello, doctor! In the past, during health checks for high school and college admissions, I often had slightly low red blood cell counts indicating mild anemia. However, I always happened to be on my menstrual period during...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Peggy: 1. Based on the blood report you provided, it indicates microcytic anemia. The more common causes include iron deficiency anemia, thalassemia, anemia of chronic disease or inflammation, hemoglobinopathies, lead poisoning, copper deficiency, leukemia, among others...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Treatment
Should I Monitor My Symptoms or Visit a Hospital for Gastro Issues?
I would like to consult a doctor? Two days ago, I suddenly experienced intense intestinal contractions and noticeably elevated body temperature, accompanied by some pain and diarrhea. The situation improved during the day, so I didn't seek medical attention. However, by even...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: When there is significant abdominal peristalsis, several possible conditions may be present, including excessive fecal accumulation or gastrointestinal inflammation. Please try to have a bowel movement first, and increase your intake of fruits and vegetables while reducing...[Read More] Should I Monitor My Symptoms or Visit a Hospital for Gastro Issues?
Understanding the Connection Between Whiplash and Numbness in Arms and Back
Numbness in the back and hands? Sometimes I experience numbness in my upper left back, which doesn't last long. Occasionally, I wake up in the morning to find my right upper arm numb, but it resolves after a while. In November 2019, I was involved in a car accident, and two ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, the numbness in your hands and back may be symptoms of cervical spine compression. It is recommended that you visit a rehabilitation specialist as soon as possible to confirm whether it is related to the extent of your previous whiplash injury an...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Whiplash and Numbness in Arms and Back
Which Specialist to Consult for Visible Veins and Swelling?
If the veins on the back of your hand are prominent, you should consult a vascular specialist or a dermatologist? Hello doctor, I started taking antihypertensive medication last month, and my blood pressure has decreased. However, I am not sure if it is due to my blood vessels be...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: Diovan (valsartan) is a medication that inhibits angiotensin II receptors, leading to a reduction in vascular smooth muscle contraction and promoting moderate vasodilation, thereby achieving the goal of lowering blood pressure. If this medication is not suitable, it is adv...[Read More] Which Specialist to Consult for Visible Veins and Swelling?
Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination and Infection Risks in Daily Life
Vaccine issues Dear Doctor, I received the hepatitis B vaccine as a child, but my health check reports as an adult have consistently shown no hepatitis B antibodies. Over four years ago, during a premarital health examination, I was tested and found to have no hepatitis B antib...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: The hepatitis B vaccine generates higher and more durable antibody levels when administered in three doses, so it is recommended that you receive all three doses. You mentioned concerns about the possibility of infection from contact with a patient’s blood via an alcohol s...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination and Infection Risks in Daily Life
Why Stretching Upon Waking Can Lead to Calf Cramps: Causes and Solutions
Stretching during the transition from sleep to wakefulness can easily lead to calf cramps? Hello: I often experience diarrhea, frequent urination, and insomnia at night, which requires me to take sleeping pills to fall asleep. Sometimes, I wake up in the middle of the night, stre...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Yao: 1. Regarding your frequent symptoms of "diarrhea, frequent urination, and insomnia," there are many potential causes. It is advisable for you to avoid consuming beverages such as coffee, tea, milk tea, and alcohol. I recommend discussing this matter in de...[Read More] Why Stretching Upon Waking Can Lead to Calf Cramps: Causes and Solutions
Concerns About Battery Leakage and Heavy Metal Poisoning Risks
Battery leakage issue? While cleaning the house, I discovered a small amount of battery leakage. The battery has been removed, and I have washed my hands. However, since the area where the battery was placed is difficult to clean, I'm unsure if any battery fluid has come int...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding the above concerns, it is indeed difficult to directly determine whether there has been exposure or ingestion. It is advisable to continue monitoring for any adverse symptoms. If you are worried, you may consider paying for heavy metal testing. Online consultatio...[Read More] Concerns About Battery Leakage and Heavy Metal Poisoning Risks
Understanding Numbness and Itching in Hands and Feet: Causes and Treatments
Numbness, itching, and tingling in the hands and feet? Initially, there was an outbreak of acute urticaria with hives appearing all over the body, and patches on the palms and soles that were very itchy. After taking medication prescribed by the hospital for urticaria, the hives ...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Ms. Hsia: You mentioned that after the appearance of acute urticaria, the rash subsided but you still experience swelling, itching, and a prickling sensation in your hands and feet. This could still be a manifestation of an allergic reaction causing vascular edema and infla...[Read More] Understanding Numbness and Itching in Hands and Feet: Causes and Treatments
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