Risk of HIV Infection from Nail Cuts in Swimming Pools: What You Need to Know
What is the risk of HIV infection from a cut on the finger in water? A few days ago, while swimming in the pool, I was scratched on my left big toe by the toenail of a swimmer in the adjacent lane (the likelihood of being scratched by his toenail is highest because he was swimmin...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Dear Mr. F, Thank you for your message. You mentioned that while swimming, you were possibly scratched on your left big toe by the toenail of another swimmer in the adjacent lane, and upon returning home, you noticed pain and bleeding in that toe. In general, swimming pools co...[Read More] Risk of HIV Infection from Nail Cuts in Swimming Pools: What You Need to Know
Understanding Unusual Skin Pain: Causes and Concerns
Unusual skin prickling sensation? I had a fever last night that reached 39.5°C. I saw a doctor yesterday, received an injection, and was prescribed medication. However, I'm not sure if it's an allergic reaction or something else, as I have developed small, bump-like les...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● It is necessary to personally receive diagnosis and treatment to distinguish whether the rash is caused by an illness or medication. Please visit a family medicine or dermatology department for further evaluation. ● Sexually transmitted infections can be identified through appe...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Skin Pain: Causes and Concerns
Red Vertical Lines on Nails: When to See a Doctor for Dizziness?
If you are experiencing a large number of red longitudinal lines on your nails that resemble bruising, along with dizziness, you should consult a specialist in dermatology for the nail symptoms and possibly a hematologist for the dizziness and any underlying blood-related issues?...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● The presence of red lines in the nails is most commonly caused by trauma leading to the rupture of microcapillaries beneath the nail. Other less common causes include infective endocarditis, psoriasis, and autoimmune diseases. ● If there is a sudden appearance of numerous red l...[Read More] Red Vertical Lines on Nails: When to See a Doctor for Dizziness?
Understanding Pain and Pus in Your Ring Finger: Causes and Solutions
Finger problems The ring finger has been experiencing unexplained throbbing pain for the past few days, and after being punctured, a small amount of pus was discharged. What could be the cause of this?
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
If the issue is near the nails, it sounds like acute paronychia. Acute paronychia is typically accompanied by redness, swelling, heat, pain, and sometimes the formation of pus-filled blisters. It is usually caused by minor trauma, excessive hand washing, nail biting or sucking, a...[Read More] Understanding Pain and Pus in Your Ring Finger: Causes and Solutions
Assessing Infection Risks: STDs and Hepatitis After Blood Exposure
Possibility of sexually transmitted infections and hepatitis? Hello, doctor. Three months ago, on December 4, 2015, I enlisted and during a blood test at the training unit, I was tasked by the squad leader to collect and categorize the blood samples from the entire company (after...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, basically, the risk of infection is higher when there is direct contact with the blood of an infected person through wounds or sexual intercourse. If you are still concerned, you can arrange for a self-paid test for follow-up at Changhua Hospital. We care about you.[Read More] Assessing Infection Risks: STDs and Hepatitis After Blood Exposure
Understanding Nail Separation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Nail separation I previously injured my hand, and now the area behind my nail is starting to separate and is swollen and hard. Will the swelling go down, and what should I do about the nail?
Dr. Chen Pengsheng Reply:
Hello: Since I cannot see the condition of your nails in person, I recommend that you visit a clinic for a physician to examine and assess your medical situation.[Read More] Understanding Nail Separation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Is Dizziness a Sign of Anemia? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
It seems like anemia? A few days ago, I started feeling dizzy after getting up. Could it be anemia? I looked it up online and found that anemia in men is often associated with cancer, which makes me really scared. My lower eyelids are red in the front and somewhat pale in the bac...
Dr. Chen Pengsheng Reply:
Hello: After seeing your question, I believe you should discuss your previous surgery and dietary conditions with a physician at the hospital, and then have the doctor assess and conduct appropriate examinations. Thank you for your message.[Read More] Is Dizziness a Sign of Anemia? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Managing Sports Injuries: Dealing with Toenail Bruising and Loss
Sports injury: subungual hematoma? After exercising, my big toe often experiences bruising and swelling, which leads to nail loss. This occurs even when my shoes fit well or are a half size larger. The bruising consistently happens at the outer front of the big toe. Even after th...
Dr. Gao Qingyun Reply:
Dear Mr. Lin, Hello. Generally, conditions affecting the toes or toenails can be evaluated by an orthopedic or general surgeon. If you are experiencing issues related to the space between your shoes and toes, you may also consult our Rehabilitation Department, which offers speci...[Read More] Managing Sports Injuries: Dealing with Toenail Bruising and Loss
Understanding Salt Intake: Symptoms and Health Implications for Office Workers
Salt intake Hello: In the past two years, whenever I consume foods high in salt, I experience a stinging sensation in my skin, excessive sweating, and significant discomfort. The more salty the food, the stronger the sensation, but there is no swelling. I also feel easily fatigue...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Generally, normal individuals have a consistent intake and excretion of salt. Only those with hypertension, heart disease, or kidney disease may experience the symptoms you mentioned. A rare situation could be heavy metal poisoning. I recommend that you go to the hospital ...[Read More] Understanding Salt Intake: Symptoms and Health Implications for Office Workers
Understanding Morning Stiffness and Pain in Fingers: Causes and Solutions
soreness Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my fingers. At first, when I wake up in the morning, they feel stiff. After two weeks, the stiffness turned into pain, particularly around the nails and the first joints of my fingers. However, once I move them, the discomfort imp...
Dr. Lai Junlong Reply:
Hello: In response to your inquiry, your symptoms can be evaluated by a rheumatologist. Normal test results do not necessarily mean there are no issues, as certain rheumatologic and immunologic diseases are diagnosed based on clinical symptoms. Alternatively, you may first seek a...[Read More] Understanding Morning Stiffness and Pain in Fingers: Causes and Solutions
Dealing with Bruised Toenails: Should You Wait or Remove?
Nail bruise Hello doctor, my toenail seems to be completely bruised due to my shoes, and it's all black. Some people say I should just wait for the nail to grow out slowly, while others suggest that removing the nail would be faster. The first option seems slow, and the seco...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello: Darkening of the nails is mostly caused by trauma. The simplest way is to let it fall off naturally, or you can remove it directly. If the new growth at the base of the nail is of normal color, it is recommended to let it fall off naturally. However, if it remains dark, it...[Read More] Dealing with Bruised Toenails: Should You Wait or Remove?
Persistent Toenail Deformity and Discoloration: Seeking Effective Treatment Options
The toenails on both of my big toes have changed shape and color? Dear Dr. Chen, I have been experiencing deformity and discoloration of my toenails for nearly ten years. I have consulted many doctors and have been undergoing treatment for a long time! It seems that the topical ...
Dr. Chen Yuchao Reply:
Based on the description, it appears to be a nail disease, possibly onychomycosis (fungal infection), degenerative, immune-related, or due to other systemic diseases. A diagnosis cannot be made without an actual examination. Please visit a dermatology clinic for an accurate diagn...[Read More] Persistent Toenail Deformity and Discoloration: Seeking Effective Treatment Options
Understanding Seasonal Eczema: Causes and Solutions for Skin Itching
Skin itching Hello Dr. Tsai, my skin has been behaving strangely for a while now. Every evening when I take a shower, I notice red, raised, linear scars where my belt is, which are itchy; if I don't scratch them, they will fade away. In other areas, if I feel the urge to scr...
Dr. Cai Mengru Reply:
Dear Mr. Jeff, As you described, the raised lesions on the skin in areas subjected to pressure, and even where scratched by nails, are likely manifestations of a condition known as Dermographism. This is a type of urticaria, which is a skin reaction to external physical pressure...[Read More] Understanding Seasonal Eczema: Causes and Solutions for Skin Itching
Understanding Leg Cramps: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Frequent muscle cramps? Hello, I would like to ask if it could be related to my job, as I sit for long periods or have a habitual sitting posture (which causes my legs to curl into a "C" shape). Two years ago, I experienced frequent calf cramps during sleep, but it grad...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, This phenomenon is often caused by muscle fatigue due to insufficient rest, and sometimes it can be triggered by an electrolyte imbalance. A simple way to improve this is to eat a banana daily. If there is still no improvement, I recommend seeking assistance at a family ...[Read More] Understanding Leg Cramps: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Why Are My Toenails Falling Off? Causes and When to Seek Help
Nail loss Hello Doctor: Recently, my toenail has fallen off on its own, and at the same time, a new one is already growing back. This is the second time it has happened. Is this a sign of any underlying health issues? Which specialist should I see? Please let me know. Thank you.
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello, the natural shedding or loss of nails is not a normal phenomenon. Most cases are caused by bacterial or fungal infections leading to inflammation. A very small number of cases are due to heavy metal poisoning, and there are also a few patients with endocrine issues. It is ...[Read More] Why Are My Toenails Falling Off? Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Nail Changes: Signs of Health Issues and Dizziness
Symptoms of Disease Hello Dr. Tsai, I have a question I would like to ask you regarding a white layer on the inner surface of my fingernails that seems to be gradually shrinking. Does this indicate any discomfort or potential disease in the body? Additionally, I sometimes exper...
Dr. Cai Jueren Reply:
Hello Allen: The size of the lunula at the base of the nail varies from person to person, and whether it can be used as a criterion for assessing bodily diseases is still a matter of debate. However, if there is a noticeable change in its size, it may indicate a change in bodily ...[Read More] Understanding Nail Changes: Signs of Health Issues and Dizziness
Understanding Chronic Headaches and Associated Symptoms: When to Seek Help
Headache Doctor, I have been experiencing chronic headaches, and recently they have become more intense and frequent. Additionally, I have noticed that sometimes I have a lack of sensation in my back, waist, and legs (in small areas). I can't feel anything when I poke those ...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
Given your age, it is more likely to be a migraine or tension-type headache. You may want to consult a neurologist first.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Headaches and Associated Symptoms: When to Seek Help
Understanding Nail and Joint Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Nail In recent years, I have experienced swelling and protrusion in several joints of my fingers. The swollen areas sometimes feel hard and at other times soft. The joint closest to the nails has become deformed and bent, especially noticeable since last year. My left middle fing...
Dr. Lin Mingxing Reply:
Dear Cynthia, As you mentioned, rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis are both possibilities. Additionally, the acute localized joint condition may be complicated by an infection. Please seek evaluation from an orthopedic surgeon or a rheumatologist as soon as possible. Wishin...[Read More] Understanding Nail and Joint Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Nail Issues in Children: Seeking Solutions for Your Daughter's Condition
Nail problems (children) Dear Dr. Huang, I have a nine-year-old daughter. Since she was two years old, her normal nails have undergone changes; the surface of her nails has become dull, and there are signs of surface peeling, resembling the effects of a child biting their nails....
Dr. Huang Jianling Reply:
Mrs. Wong: There are many reasons for nail changes, such as: 1) Dry and brittle nails (lack of vitamin A and calcium) 2) Thickened and gray nails (fungal infection) 3) Nail splitting and peeling (prolonged exposure to cleaning agents, hyperthyroidism, bacterial infection, anemia)...[Read More] Nail Issues in Children: Seeking Solutions for Your Daughter's Condition
Which Specialist Should I See for My Nail Biting Habit?
What disease is this? I would like to ask, I have had a nail-biting problem since middle school. Although I have always tried to control myself, I often find myself biting my nails unconsciously. I have been wanting to see a doctor, but I am not sure which specialty to consult. S...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
Seeing a psychiatrist would be a good choice.[Read More] Which Specialist Should I See for My Nail Biting Habit?