Why Am I Sleeping 15 Hours and Still Feeling Tired?
Recently, even after sleeping for over ten hours, I still feel easily fatigued? Hello, doctor. I have been sleeping for about fourteen to fifteen hours a day for the past few days, and after waking up for more than an hour, I start to feel sleepy again. I haven't taken any m...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The reasons for your fatigue, aside from medication effects or physical exhaustion, may also include considerations such as anemia, infections, sleep apnea, abnormalities in heart/liver/kidney function, blood sugar/electrolyte imbalances, endocrine disorders, and other iss...[Read More] Why Am I Sleeping 15 Hours and Still Feeling Tired?
Understanding Parasite Infections: Risks from Stray Dogs and Hygiene
Questions about parasitic infections? Hello Doctor, Q1: Since I live in the countryside, there are stray dogs around my home and near my workplace. There is often dog feces on the road. Yesterday, after a light rain, I walked to my car and felt water droplets hitting the ground...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it is advisable to avoid polluted environments if possible. It is recommended that you wash your hands properly with soap for at least 20 seconds after coming into contact with dirt. If you are unable to wash your hands immediately, do not touch ...[Read More] Understanding Parasite Infections: Risks from Stray Dogs and Hygiene
Can I Get the HPV Vaccine While Taking Antibiotics?
HPV vaccine and antibiotics? Hello Dr. Hsiao, due to prostatitis, I have recently started taking antibiotics (Lisacef 500mg and OA18-Cephradine 500mg). Next week is scheduled for my second dose of the HPV nine-valent vaccine. Can I still receive it as planned? If not, what is the...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Capybara: 1. According to the recommendations of Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control, the schedule for administering the HPV nine-valent vaccine consists of three doses: one at 0 months, one at 1 to 2 months, and one at 6 months. In cases of severe infections, immunoc...[Read More] Can I Get the HPV Vaccine While Taking Antibiotics?
Do I Need a Rabies Vaccine After Being Scratched by a Kitten?
A three-week-old kitten scratched my skin? Five days ago, I was scratched by a three-week-old stray kitten in the Yunlin area. I washed the wound with soap for about 20 seconds and applied medication, and the next day there was no visible wound. Do I still need to receive a rabie...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin: Current surveillance data in Taiwan shows no rabies infections in stray dogs and cats. Additionally, there is an ongoing initiative to vaccinate dogs and cats against rabies in the country, resulting in an extremely low risk of rabies virus infection in domestic do...[Read More] Do I Need a Rabies Vaccine After Being Scratched by a Kitten?
Needle Stick Injury: Risk of Infection from Blood Glucose Testing
Needle stick injury Hello, doctor: My mom accidentally got pricked by a needle while measuring my dad's blood sugar. Since my dad has hepatitis B, he immediately squeezed out the blood. Is there a risk of infection in this situation?
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Although the amount of blood remaining on the needle should be minimal, there is still a risk of hepatitis B infection. It is advisable to take your parents to the doctor for blood tests as soon as possible.[Read More] Needle Stick Injury: Risk of Infection from Blood Glucose Testing
Understanding Rib Pain and Body Discomfort: Possible Causes
Rib pain accompanied by general malaise? I would like to ask, in the past couple of days, I have been experiencing intermittent dull pain in the lower ribs on both sides, along with a sore throat. At times, I also feel cold. What could be the possible reasons for this?
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The pain in your ribs, sore throat, and chills may be caused by a viral infection. Currently, common viral infections include the COVID-19 virus and the influenza virus, among others. It is recommended that you seek medical evaluation and treatment as soon as possible.[Read More] Understanding Rib Pain and Body Discomfort: Possible Causes
Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Raw Crab in Korea
After eating raw crab in South Korea, experiencing discomfort? Hello Doctor, I had several servings of raw crab in Korea on the night of March 4th this year, but I did not experience any discomfort at that time. After returning home, I developed a fever and gastrointestinal disco...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Since the symptoms of lung fluke infection are similar to those of gastroenteritis, and the incubation period can last from 6 to 10 weeks, if you are concerned, you may want to undergo a stool examination and seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Raw Crab in Korea
Which Specialist to See for Abnormal Health Check Results?
Health examination issues Hello, doctor. I recently had a health check-up, and the results showed a leukocyte esterase level of 3+ and a total cholesterol level of 235 (with the standard being below 200). Which specialty should I consult for this? The leukocyte esterase result of...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin: 1. The presence of leukocyte esterase indicates a urinary tract infection, as it is produced by bacteria. If you currently have a fever and elevated white blood cell count, it suggests an active infection; if not, it indicates that a previous infection has resolved...[Read More] Which Specialist to See for Abnormal Health Check Results?
Assessing COVID-19 Exposure Risk After Close Contact with a Colleague
Risk of Infection Hello Doctor, I was informed today that a colleague of mine has tested positive for COVID-19. I sat next to this colleague during a meeting for two hours two days ago, and we were very close to each other. Both of us were wearing masks during that time, but I am...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Since both you and your colleague are wearing masks, the likelihood of contracting COVID-19 from your colleague is generally lower, but it cannot be said that there is no risk at all. 2. If you are concerned about contracting COVID-19, you can first check yourself using...[Read More] Assessing COVID-19 Exposure Risk After Close Contact with a Colleague
Can Dust from Stray Cats Cause Zoonotic Infections? Expert Insights
Infection issues Hello Doctor, yesterday my family discovered a stray cat in the space above the rolling shutter door. During the process of capturing it, we did not wear masks, and a lot of dust and rust particles fell down. Afterward, I took a full shower. I researched online a...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: In terms of cats, the more common zoonotic infections are as follows: 1. Cat Scratch Disease: Most infections occur due to scratches or bites from cats. 2. Toxoplasmosis: Most infections occur from handling cat feces. Based on your description of the process of capturing t...[Read More] Can Dust from Stray Cats Cause Zoonotic Infections? Expert Insights
Understanding Prolonged Diarrhea and Weight Loss: Key Questions for Family Medicine
More detailed questions? Hello Doctor, I am the person who asked question #206159. I have more related questions today as mentioned in the previous article. My mother has been experiencing diarrhea for two months, accompanied by weight loss, dropping from around 55 kg to 48 kg. H...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! If probiotics are helpful, you can continue taking them and gradually reduce the dosage. It's important to maintain a balanced diet that includes all six essential nutrients. Additionally, inquire about the source of the eggs and whether they are cooked, considering t...[Read More] Understanding Prolonged Diarrhea and Weight Loss: Key Questions for Family Medicine
Understanding Dizziness and Fatigue After a Common Cold: When to Seek Help
Cold, dizziness, and general weakness? I initially thought I had contracted influenza A from my family, but after visiting the clinic, the doctor diagnosed me with a common cold. My symptoms included fever, body aches, cough, runny nose, and nausea. However, on the fifth day of t...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, since you have already had a fever reduction, it indicates that the infection is likely improving. However, the residual discomfort from the infection may still persist. At this time, it is advisable to refrain from exercising, as the lack of app...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Fatigue After a Common Cold: When to Seek Help
Understanding Temperature Fluctuations: When to Seek Medical Attention
Body temperature issues Hello, I am 27 years old. My usual body temperature measured with a home thermometer is around 36.5-37.5 degrees Celsius. However, for the past two days, it has suddenly dropped to around 35-35.5 degrees Celsius, accompanied by symptoms such as headache, d...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Li Hsin-yun: 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 retain internal heat, the bo...[Read More] Understanding Temperature Fluctuations: When to Seek Medical Attention
Can You Still Test for COVID-19 N Protein Antibodies in Taiwan?
I want to confirm whether I have had COVID-19, but can the SARS-CoV-2 N protein antibodies still be tested in Taiwan? Hello, doctor! I understand that testing for "COVID-19 N protein antibodies" can help determine if I have been infected with COVID-19 in the past few mo...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to inquire at a nearby medical center to see if they offer blood tests for COVID-19 antibodies.[Read More] Can You Still Test for COVID-19 N Protein Antibodies in Taiwan?
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Abdominal pain? On January 31st, around 2 AM, I suddenly experienced abdominal pain and had to go to the bathroom about 4 to 5 times. The next day, on February 1st, I went to see a doctor. After taking the medication prescribed by the doctor, I stopped having diarrhea, but my sto...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your symptoms mainly include left lower abdominal pain and diarrhea. You may need to consider the following conditions: diverticulitis, urinary tract infection, gynecological disorders, gastroenteritis, etc. If the left lower abdominal pain persists without improvement or ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Managing Asthma Issues Triggered by Sinusitis in Patients
Sinusitis triggers asthma issues? Hello, doctor. My mother had a cold last week that triggered her sinusitis (she has a history of sinusitis). It has not improved after a week. Three days ago, she visited a doctor and was prescribed antibiotics, which have helped her condition sl...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Sinusitis is classified as an upper respiratory tract infection, but it can potentially progress to a lower respiratory tract infection, such as pneumonia. If you experience persistent tachycardia accompanied by shortness of breath, it is advisable to seek medical treatmen...[Read More] Managing Asthma Issues Triggered by Sinusitis in Patients
Concerns About Infection Risks from Birds While Riding a Bike
Infection issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if there is a risk of infection from bacteria if birds fly very close while riding a bike, due to contamination on my clothing or the bike itself. Additionally, if I accidentally hit a bird while riding with the visor of my hel...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. If there has been contact with secretions or excretions from birds, there is a possibility of infection from pathogens carried by those birds. However, if only your outer clothing and the bicycle have been contaminated, the risk of infection should be very low since the...[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks from Birds While Riding a Bike
Consultation on Trichomoniasis Infection and Treatment Options
Consultation on Trichomoniasis Infection Issues Hello Doctor, about two years ago I was diagnosed with a Trichomonas vaginalis infection, and at that time, the doctor prescribed "Johnson" Metronidazole tablets for seven days. After completing the treatment, I did not re...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, trichomoniasis infection requires complete treatment for both partners. The current symptoms need further investigation to confirm the underlying cause and to ensure appropriate treatment. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provi...[Read More] Consultation on Trichomoniasis Infection and Treatment Options
COVID-19 Transmission Concerns in Shared Living Spaces
COVID-19 Transmission Issues Hello, doctor. Thank you for your hard work. I have two questions: 1. I am currently living in a rented studio apartment with a large window (150*50 cm) that allows for drying clothes. The two neighboring units have similar windows. Recently, I have...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. If the window is ventilated with outdoor air, there is no need to close it specifically. 2. Wearing a mask over the nose and breathing in through the nose while exhaling through the mouth does not prevent infection.[Read More] COVID-19 Transmission Concerns in Shared Living Spaces
Can Store-Bought Disinfectants Kill H. Pylori on Surfaces?
Can commercially available disinfectants kill Helicobacter pylori on surfaces? Hello, doctor. Can you please tell me if commercially available disinfectants, such as Noroclean spray (400ml, hypochlorous acid solution, made in Japan), can kill Helicobacter pylori on surfaces like ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! It should be possible. For disinfecting utensils: 20-90 ppm. Remember to rinse with clean water afterward. "Helicobacter pylori is transmitted orally, and improving personal hygiene and dietary practices can reduce the risk of infection. Since cross-infection among fa...[Read More] Can Store-Bought Disinfectants Kill H. Pylori on Surfaces?