Understanding HIV Infection Risks in Shared Blood Glucose Testing
HIV infection On January 5th, I went to buy a blood glucose meter. The pharmacist tested it first using his own hand and said there was no needle inside. He used it without drawing blood! When it was my turn to test, I pressed the button and ended up drawing blood; I was shocked ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your questions: 1. Is there a risk? --> Regardless, avoid sharing needles. Theoretically, used needles must be disposed of properly; however, I am not entirely clear about the situation you described. 2. How do I protect my family? If I have itchy skin and...[Read More] Understanding HIV Infection Risks in Shared Blood Glucose Testing
Night Sweats and Weight Loss: Understanding Your Symptoms and Next Steps
Night sweats and persistent weight loss? Hello Doctor, in early October, I visited the gastroenterology department due to issues with bowel sounds, bloating, and diarrhea. The physician diagnosed me with functional dyspepsia. Later, feeling uneasy, I went to another hospital for ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, I recommend that you consult a pulmonologist.[Read More] Night Sweats and Weight Loss: Understanding Your Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Mold in Water Bottles: Health Risks and Precautions
Mold-related issues? Hello Dr. Hsiao, I recently discovered a significant amount of mold at the bottom of the water bottle that my family has been using for years (I had never noticed it before). I don't know how long it has been there, so I hurried to clean it. I would like...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. JAM: 1. Fungi are ubiquitous in our subtropical and tropical climate; fungi, also known as mycetes, are diverse, but only a few species can cause diseases in humans. Diseases caused by these pathogens are collectively referred to as fungal infections, mycotic infections...[Read More] Understanding Mold in Water Bottles: Health Risks and Precautions
Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Severity, Risks, and Treatment Concerns
Iron deficiency anemia Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my previous blood test results: Hb: 10.2, HCT: 32.6, MCV: 71.2, MCH: 22.3, PLT: 408, RDW-CV: 17.5, Ferritin: 4.5. Are these anemia values considered severe? What would happen if I don't address this? During my l...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Ruru, 1. The information you provided indicates that you have microcytic anemia; due to your Ferritin level of 4.5 ng/ml being low (normal values are 23.9-336.2 ng/mL for males and 11.0-306.8 ng/mL for females), this may suggest iron deficiency anemia. A definitive dia...[Read More] Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia: Severity, Risks, and Treatment Concerns
Can STDs Be Transmitted Through Contaminated Drinks?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) transmission If a beverage is contaminated with the bodily fluids of a person with a sexually transmitted infection, and an individual with oral wounds consumes it, is there a risk of infection? For example, could this lead to infections suc...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: You mentioned the concern about whether drinking beverages contaminated with the bodily fluids of an individual with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) could lead to infection when there are wounds in the mouth. This cannot be generalized, as it depends on the type of ...[Read More] Can STDs Be Transmitted Through Contaminated Drinks?
Understanding Unexplained Chest Discomfort and Body Symptoms
Physical discomfort? Hello Doctor: Recently, due to the pandemic, I have been staying at home and I'm not sure if it's because of frequently using the air conditioning that I have been experiencing some minor health issues. I do not have any underlying health conditions...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, you are experiencing abnormal temperature regulation, chest pain, and sleep issues, and it seems you can identify triggers for these symptoms. I recommend that even if you are staying at home due to the pandemic, you should plan a regular daily r...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Chest Discomfort and Body Symptoms
Can People with Chronic Hives Safely Get the COVID Vaccine?
Can individuals with urticaria receive the COVID-19 vaccine? Hello Doctor: My father is 56 years old and he occasionally experiences sudden episodes of urticaria. Whenever he feels itchy, he takes an antihistamine and it resolves the issue. This occurs about once or twice a month...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Lee: 1. The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine contains a non-replicating adenoviral vector carrying the gene for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S protein), as well as L-Histidine, L-Histidine hydrochloride monohydrate, magnesium chloride, Polysorbate 80, ethanol, sucrose, sod...[Read More] Can People with Chronic Hives Safely Get the COVID Vaccine?
Understanding Post-Injection Palpitations: Causes and Concerns
Palpitations after injection? Hello Doctor: I do not have any diseases or drug allergies. Although I have mild nasal allergies, I have previously experienced allergic reactions to shrimp and sudden hives, but those incidents occurred only once or twice several years ago, and I ge...
Dr. Wu Zongying Reply:
Hello: You asked about the cause of palpitations after vaccination. On one hand, it is a response from the autonomic nervous system; on the other hand, the medication entering the body can also trigger some reactions, which will gradually subside. These reactions should not be cl...[Read More] Understanding Post-Injection Palpitations: Causes and Concerns
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
Understanding Blood Test Results: Concerns About Lymphocytes and Monocytes
Please ask questions regarding blood draws and related issues? Hello Doctor, about a year ago, I started follow-ups in family medicine due to a liver enzyme level of 60. I was advised to have blood tests every three to six months. Later, during one of the tests, my lymphocyte cou...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. White blood cells are classified into neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, etc., each with its own reference range. 2. Their distribution can vary due to different diseases or physiological states. Atypical lymphocytes may appear in peripheral blood dur...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Concerns About Lymphocytes and Monocytes
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 Hemoglobin and Positive ANA: Your Questions Answered
Consultation Inquiry Hello, doctor. I have a few questions to ask you. 1. My hemoglobin levels are between 9 and 10. Is this considered low? Do I need to take iron supplements? What will happen if I leave it untreated? 2. In a previous blood test, one of my antinuclear antibo...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, your hemoglobin level is indeed somewhat low. It is recommended to further consult a hematologist for evaluation of the positive antinuclear antibodies. Please note that online consultations with the rheumatology department are not equivalent to in-person medical visits an...[Read More] Understanding Low Hemoglobin and Positive ANA: Your Questions Answered
Is There a Connection Between Chickenpox and HIV in Adults?
Is there a connection between chickenpox and HIV? Doctor, I recently contracted adult chickenpox, but I haven't been in contact with any children who have it. Could this mean that I have HIV?
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Mr. Jan: Chickenpox is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, while AIDS is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and they are not the same. However, if an individual with AIDS experiences immunosuppression and simultaneously contracts chickenpox, th...[Read More] Is There a Connection Between Chickenpox and HIV in Adults?
Can Mediterranean Anemia Increase HIV Risks? Understanding Your Test Results
Can someone with Mediterranean anemia contract HIV? If they do, what would happen? I had unprotected sexual intercourse with my ex-partner, who kindly informed me that they are HIV positive. I then purchased a test kit and tested positive, but after consulting at the hospital and...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, Mediterranean anemia and HIV infection are two different matters. Given your situation and the high-risk behavior, follow-up is necessary. Please visit the Infectious Diseases Department at the hospital for evaluation and follow-up. Online consultations are not equivalent ...[Read More] Can Mediterranean Anemia Increase HIV Risks? Understanding Your Test Results
Understanding Blood Infection Risks After Needle Stick Injuries
Blood infection Hello, doctor. While I was giving injections and drawing blood from a stray dog, I accidentally pricked my own finger and it bled. I have previously received a tetanus shot and completed the rabies vaccination series. What else should I be aware of? Is there a ris...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Currently, there are no reported cases of HIV or hepatitis B and C viruses being transmitted through blood from dogs in clinical settings. If there are any concerns, it is advisable to consult with an infectious disease specialist.[Read More] Understanding Blood Infection Risks After Needle Stick Injuries
Understanding Fever and Temperature Fluctuations: Common Concerns
Fever and fluctuations in body temperature issues? Hello Doctor, last night I felt a bit of pressure in my head and had a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius. My left arm muscles were a bit sore, but I didn't have any other discomfort. Today during the day, my headache eased, ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Teresa: 1. Humans possess physiological mechanisms to regulate and maintain core body temperature. When there is a need to release excess heat, the body cools down by increasing blood circulation to the skin and sweating; conversely, to conserve internal heat, it reduc...[Read More] Understanding Fever and Temperature Fluctuations: Common Concerns
Understanding HIV Infection Risks: Common Concerns and Testing Options
Risk of HIV Infection Doctor, I apologize, but I have two questions to address. 1. Today, after work, a colleague helped me move my car, and during the process, his fingernail accidentally cut my finger, causing a small amount of bleeding. I didn't pay special attention to...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Mr. H: Regarding the two situations mentioned in your letter, the likelihood of being infected with the HIV virus is almost nonexistent. The transmission routes for HIV include unprotected sexual intercourse, blood contact or transfusion, sharing needles with an HIV-infect...[Read More] Understanding HIV Infection Risks: Common Concerns and Testing Options
Needle Stick Injuries and Drug Exposure: What You Should Know
Needle management and the effects of drugs? Hello doctor, due to a suspected needle-stick incident that occurred recently at the hospital, I sought medical attention at the infectious disease department. The hospital tested for hepatitis B and C, syphilis, HIV, and liver function...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding the follow-up after the needlestick incident, the infection control unit has developed a consensus-based follow-up process. If you still have concerns, you may discuss the exposure routes of the regulated items further with your infectious disease physician, depe...[Read More] Needle Stick Injuries and Drug Exposure: What You Should Know
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
Understanding Numbness and Itching in Hands and Feet: Causes and Treatments
Numbness, itching, and tingling in the hands and feet? Initially, there was acute urticaria with widespread hives, and patches appeared on the palms and soles that were very itchy. After taking medication prescribed by the hospital for urticaria, the hives subsided, but after two...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Ms. Hsia: You mentioned that the hives have subsided, but after a couple of days, your hands and feet are still swollen and experiencing itching and tingling. This could be a delayed allergic reaction causing sensory abnormalities. I recommend that you visit a rheumatology ...[Read More] Understanding Numbness and Itching in Hands and Feet: Causes and Treatments