Do I Need Rabies Vaccination After a Dog Bite in Kaohsiung?
If bitten by a dog in Kaohsiung City, is it necessary to receive a rabies vaccine? Hello, doctor. About 20 days ago, I was bitten on my calf by a stray dog in downtown Kaohsiung. I immediately went to the United Hospital for a consultation, and the doctor said I didn't need ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding rabies, you can refer to the guidelines announced by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) (Clinical Management Guidelines for Suspected Rabies or Leptospira Virus Infection from Animal Bites or Scratches) at https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/MPage/Ffsf8vPI2ug2_c_s...[Read More] Do I Need Rabies Vaccination After a Dog Bite in Kaohsiung?
Risk of Hantavirus Infection After Contact with Dead Mouse
The transmission rate of hantavirus? Yesterday morning, I had no choice but to park my scooter next to a dead rat. The rat was quite fresh and appeared to have just been crushed, with blood still oozing out. When I finished work at 5 PM, the dead rat seemed to have been moved a f...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Diseases that may be transmitted by rodents include viruses (Hantavirus, Lassa virus, Arenavirus, etc.), bacteria (plague, rat-bite fever, Salmonella, Leptospira, endemic typhus, etc.), and parasites (Toxoplasma, Coccidia, Echinococcus, Amoeba, etc.). If you have come i...[Read More] Risk of Hantavirus Infection After Contact with Dead Mouse
Understanding Neck Stiffness and Discomfort: Causes and Remedies
Stiffness and discomfort in the nape of the neck? Hello, Doctor. I am 27 years old and have a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Last Saturday, after dinner, I clearly felt stiffness and discomfort in my neck, and it was difficult to turn my head from side to side...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your discomfort may be due to the following conditions: 1. Infection, most likely a viral infection 2. Allergies 3. Migraine. It is recommended that you first perform a COVID-19 rapid test. Additionally, if you have any over-the-counter medications for symptom relief (such...[Read More] Understanding Neck Stiffness and Discomfort: Causes and Remedies
Rabies Concerns After Dog Bite: Is It Too Late for Vaccination?
Two and a half years ago, I was bitten by someone else's dog? Hello doctor, I heard that the incubation period for rabies can last for several years. I remembered that two and a half years ago, I saw a dog brought by someone exercising at school. Since the dog used to come a...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Generally, domestic dogs do not transmit rabies unless the dog that bit you later develops rabies. In Taiwan, the animals that are more commonly known to carry the rabies virus are the ferret badger and the civet. You were bitten by a dog belonging to a member of the publi...[Read More] Rabies Concerns After Dog Bite: Is It Too Late for Vaccination?
Missing One Antibiotic Pill: Should You Continue Treatment for Cellulitis?
I accidentally lost a dose of antibiotics? On March 4th, I received treatment for cellulitis in the emergency department and was prescribed 250 mg of Dexa-Cillin, taking two pills every six hours for six days. Since I was not fully recovered when the medication was nearly finishe...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Skipping a dose of antibiotics primarily affects the concentration of the medication in the body, which can impact the effectiveness of the treatment. 2. It is recommended to complete the full course of antibiotics, as failing to eliminate all the bacteria may allow the...[Read More] Missing One Antibiotic Pill: Should You Continue Treatment for Cellulitis?
Persistent Low-Grade Fever After Viral Infection: What to Know
Since a certain day when I caught a chill, I have been experiencing a persistent low-grade fever? Since last Tuesday, there has been continuous wind, and starting from Wednesday, I experienced mild throat pain along with a body temperature ranging between 37°C and 37.8°C. The nex...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, there are many possible reasons for an elevated body temperature, with the most common being infections. Other potential causes include inflammatory diseases or tumors. If the high temperature persists, it is advisable to have an evaluation by an infectious disease special...[Read More] Persistent Low-Grade Fever After Viral Infection: What to Know
Understanding Antibiotic Timing: Risks of Overlap and Dosage Concerns
Antibiotic dosing intervals I was hospitalized for a urinary tract infection on February 22 and discharged on March 1. Upon discharge, I was prescribed Cipro (ciprofloxacin) to take two tablets every 12 hours. On March 4, I went to the emergency room for cellulitis and received D...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The usage of Dicloxacillin is four times a day. Although the medication bag indicates to take it every 6 hours, it can also be divided into three doses after meals and one before bedtime, as long as there is an interval of at least 3-4 hours, which is acceptable. Based ...[Read More] Understanding Antibiotic Timing: Risks of Overlap and Dosage Concerns
Exploring the Link Between Fatigue and Vitamin D Deficiency
The association between fatigue and vitamin D deficiency? I have been experiencing fatigue and excessive sleepiness for about 6 to 7 years. I have seen various internal medicine specialists and undergone tests for thyroid function, hormones, etc. I even visited a sleep clinic, an...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Vitamin D deficiency may have the following effects: decreased immune function, anxiety, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, dry skin, cardiovascular diseases, etc. Based on your description of physical discomfort, some of it may indeed be related to vitamin D deficiency. Since...[Read More] Exploring the Link Between Fatigue and Vitamin D Deficiency
Understanding Abnormal Lymphocyte Levels and COVID-19 Symptoms
Abnormal lymphocyte count? On January 25, I went to the emergency room due to dizziness, and my blood pressure spiked to 220. The doctor also ordered blood tests, which showed lymphocytes at 11.7, neutrophils at 84.9, and eosinophils at 0.4. Two days later, I was diagnosed with C...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, the results of the white blood cell classification at that time likely indicated a state caused by acute infection or inflammation. After all, the results of a complete blood count are dynamic. If you continue to feel unwell, it is advisable to return to your original trea...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Lymphocyte Levels and COVID-19 Symptoms
Is That Noodle-Like Stool a Sign of Parasite Infection?
About parasites? I would like to ask, if I pass something that looks like a noodle when using the restroom, could it be a sign of a parasitic infection? If treatment is needed, can I buy the related medications at the pharmacy?
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to visit the Infectious Disease outpatient clinic for further evaluation. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Is That Noodle-Like Stool a Sign of Parasite Infection?
Understanding Sore Throat After Unprotected Oral Sex: What You Need to Know
Sore throat? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a situation. The day after engaging in unprotected sexual activity, I noticed that my throat felt itchy. By the third day, my throat has become increasingly uncomfortable. I would like to know if this could be a sexually transm...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! There are many reasons for a scratchy throat, including issues related to the structures involved: the pharynx, tonsils, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis. It is also important to consider gastrointestinal issues, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you have ...[Read More] Understanding Sore Throat After Unprotected Oral Sex: What You Need to Know
Concerns About Alcohol Disinfection in Shared Water Dispensers
Questions related to disinfectant alcohol? Hello, Doctor: I currently share a water dispenser with other residents on the same floor. I used 75% alcohol, classified as a type B disinfectant, to spray for disinfection. However, I later realized that my alcohol spray nozzle produce...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If 75% alcohol is accidentally ingested, the primary concern is alcohol poisoning, especially in children. The general recommendation is to drink a large amount of water. However, unless a significant amount was sprayed during disinfection, ingesting a small amount should ...[Read More] Concerns About Alcohol Disinfection in Shared Water Dispensers
Understanding Declining GFR: Is It a Sign of Kidney Issues?
Health check-up issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if my glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is considered to be declining. I am 32 years old, and for the past few years, my GFR has been around 120. Last January, it was 99, and when I tested again in August, it was 94. Is thi...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The normal glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is typically between 100-120 mL/min. After the age of 30-40, it generally declines by about 1 mL/min each year. This value is primarily calculated based on the serum creatinine level, along with age and gender, but can also be in...[Read More] Understanding Declining GFR: Is It a Sign of Kidney Issues?
Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks and Vaccination Options
Hepatitis B transmission issues? Hello Doctor: I was born in 2005 and previously received the hepatitis B vaccine, but due to my constitution, the antibodies later disappeared. On January 20, 2023, I had a French kiss and unprotected oral sex with a hepatitis B carrier, although ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Because you have engaged in oral sexual contact, there is still a possibility of contracting Hepatitis B. However, since you have previously received the Hepatitis B vaccine, even though the antibody levels may have decreased to undetectable levels, there may still be s...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks and Vaccination Options
Understanding Jaw Lymph Node Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Pain in the submandibular lymph nodes? The pain occurs approximately once every hour and has lasted for 2 to 3 days. However, the lymph nodes do not seem to be swollen upon examination. I'm not sure why this is happening, but it doesn't feel severe enough to warrant a d...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Pain in the submandibular lymph nodes is mostly associated with upper respiratory infections (viral infections are more common). It usually resolves on its own after recovery from a cold. If the discomfort is significant, over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken to all...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Lymph Node Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding HIV Risk After Unprotected Sex: Key Insights
HIV-related issues In mid-December, I had unprotected intercourse with someone. Since then, I have been monitoring my temperature daily and have not experienced any fever or other acute HIV symptoms. I would like to know if this means that the likelihood of being infected is very...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The incubation period for HIV can range from a few weeks to several years, and the initial symptoms may resemble mild flu-like symptoms. If you are concerned about the possibility of HIV infection, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation for peace of mind.[Read More] Understanding HIV Risk After Unprotected Sex: Key Insights
Understanding Blood Test Results: What Do They Mean for Your Health?
Blood test report I often experience dizziness, chest tightness, palpitations, fatigue, and excessive sleepiness, so I had a blood test done today. Could you please tell me if there are any issues with the lab report? Lab report: - White Blood Cell Count: 12,410 - Red Blood C...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your blood test report shows two main issues: 1. Severe microcytic anemia, which may require consideration of iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia. 2. Elevated white blood cell count with increased neutrophils and decreased lymphocytes, which may raise concerns about pos...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: What Do They Mean for Your Health?
Concerns About Mouse-Borne Diseases After Visiting an Internet Cafe
Rodent-borne disease issues? Hello, doctor. Yesterday, when I was about to leave an internet café, I noticed what seemed to be mouse footprints on the armrest of the chair. During my time there, my clothes and hands came into contact with the armrest, and I also ordered food to e...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The information from the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control is as follows: Diseases that can be transmitted by rodents include plague, rat-bite fever, endemic typhus, leptospirosis, scrub typhus, Lyme disease, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, leptospirosis, and rickettsial s...[Read More] Concerns About Mouse-Borne Diseases After Visiting an Internet Cafe
Should You See a Doctor for STDs Without Symptoms? Here's What to Know
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) issues? If there are no symptoms after sexual intercourse, can I still see a doctor? If so, which specialty should I consult: family medicine, urology, or infectious diseases?
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If you are concerned about contracting a sexually transmitted infection after sexual activity, it is recommended to visit an infectious disease specialist.[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for STDs Without Symptoms? Here's What to Know
Chills Without Fever: Understanding Cold Sensitivity and Symptoms
Feeling cold and shivering without a fever? Hello doctor, in recent years, whenever the weather gets cold, I suddenly feel cold and start shivering at night, to the point where my teeth chatter. This condition can last for over an hour, but I have never had a fever. I usually use...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, if an infection has been ruled out, there may be other physical conditions that still need to be evaluated. It is advisable to consult your family physician for assistance, and depending on the situation, they may refer you to other subspecialtie...[Read More] Chills Without Fever: Understanding Cold Sensitivity and Symptoms