Understanding Asthma Medications: Nail Changes and Muscle Cramps Explained
Asthma medication, nails, muscle cramps? The doctor diagnosed me with asthma, and I usually use Duasmas HFA 200 twice in the morning and evening, along with allergy medication and Hexoline. However, I've noticed that over the past few months, two of my fingernails have devel...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding these questions: 1. It is advisable to have a dermatologist evaluate the condition of your finger skin in person. 2. "After using asthma medication, is it common to experience cramps and excessive salivation?" - Clinically, we do not encounter many pa...[Read More] Understanding Asthma Medications: Nail Changes and Muscle Cramps Explained
Could Your Symptoms Indicate HIV Infection? Understanding the Risks
Could the presence of various symptoms in the body indicate HIV? Hello, Doctor. I apologize for the late inquiry, but I hope to receive your assistance. About two months ago, in early July (on July 1 and 2), I engaged in high-risk sexual behavior (unprotected) with my girlfriend....
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Regarding your issue, I recommend that you visit the Infectious Disease and Dermatology clinics. If you suspect an infection, you can also go to an anonymous testing site for examination. I hope this helps, and I wish you a speedy recovery![Read More] Could Your Symptoms Indicate HIV Infection? Understanding the Risks
Understanding Groin Lumps: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Symptoms similar to lymphadenopathy in the groin area? Hello Doctor, I sit at my computer desk for long periods every day. A few months ago, I experienced similar symptoms. At that time, I squeezed a lump in my groin, and after applying a topical antibiotic for several weeks, it ...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it may be a skin abscess, which, if not properly managed, could progress to cellulitis. I recommend that you visit a dermatology or surgical outpatient clinic for evaluation and treatment. Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you a speedy recov...[Read More] Understanding Groin Lumps: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Armpit Lumps: When to See a Doctor
There is a hard lump in the armpit? Today I discovered a hard lump under the skin that I am unsure about. It hurts when I press on it, and I am not clear on how long it has been there. Which department should I consult?
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Please assess the size and pain of the lump in your armpit to determine if it is related to changes in your menstrual cycle. At the very least, inform your doctor how long you have noticed it. You may choose to see a breast surgeon and seek medical evaluation as soon as po...[Read More] Understanding Armpit Lumps: When to See a Doctor
Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Cholesterol, Blood Sugar, and More
Blood test issues Hello Dr. Chen: I recently received my blood donation report, which shows total cholesterol at 188 mg/dL, LDL-C at 132 mg/dL, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) at 5.9%, blood pressure at 115/77 mmHg, and ALT at 13 U/L. I would like to ask: 1. Do these results indica...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Total cholesterol is generally considered normal if it is ≤200 mg/dL, and LDL-C is considered normal if it is ≤130 mg/dL, indicating only a slight increase. This is not classified as high lipid levels, and given your age, your cardiovascular risk is generally low. ● The norma...[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Cholesterol, Blood Sugar, and More
Which Specialist to Consult for a Painful Finger Joint Lump?
You should see an orthopedic specialist for a lump on the first joint of your right index finger? Hello, I have a lump on the first joint of my right index finger. It's transparent and about the size of a mung bean. It hurts a lot when I bump it, and there is also internal b...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Since the lesion could not be visualized, it is recommended that you first consult a dermatologist. If the physician has other diagnoses, they may refer you to a different specialty. Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you a speedy recovery![Read More] Which Specialist to Consult for a Painful Finger Joint Lump?
Understanding Blood Test Safety: Addressing Concerns About Contamination
Blood test issues? Hello, doctor. I asked about the blood test procedure the day before yesterday (<a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/126694">#126694</a>), and I appreciate your response. I apologize for asking another question. Initially, I was very concer...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● You don't need to worry about the risk of infection at all. Additionally, the purpose of disinfecting the blood draw site with alcohol is also for this reason. You can refer to similar responses in articles #126643 and #126615. ● Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood an...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Safety: Addressing Concerns About Contamination
Managing Irregular Periods and Skin Growths: A Guide for Seniors
Could you please provide more details or specify your question? 1. In the past 2-3 years, my menstrual cycle has not been as regular as it used to be, occurring every 30-40 days. Now, it comes approximately every 2-3 months. I have seen a gynecologist who conducted blood tests fo...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● The average age for women to reach menopause is around 51 years, and in the years leading up to it, they may experience irregular menstruation and some may have menopausal symptoms. Normal hormone levels indicate that menopause has not yet occurred; if there are no menopausal s...[Read More] Managing Irregular Periods and Skin Growths: A Guide for Seniors
Understanding Skin Pain and Infection: Possible Causes and Concerns
Skin experiencing tingling and infection issues? Today while walking, I felt a sudden sharp pain in my left elbow as sweat dripped down. When I got home, I checked and there didn't seem to be any wounds or broken skin. However, when I lightly touched it with my fingers, I ex...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
- Skin tingling is more likely related to pressure; however, due to the injury at the C5 cervical vertebra, it may also cause discomfort in the elbow, although this is less common. If the issue is related to the neck, symptoms of numbness and tingling in the hand would persist. I...[Read More] Understanding Skin Pain and Infection: Possible Causes and Concerns
Assessing Virus Infection Risks from Blood Contact in Sports
Risk of Viral Infection (Continued Inquiry) Dear Dr. Chen, Thank you for your response. I am the gentleman who inquired about the risk of viral infection. Here is a recap of my previous question: Yesterday, while playing basketball, my hand came into contact with a friend's...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States: - The transmission risk from needlestick injuries is as follows: - Hepatitis B: 6-30% - Hepatitis C: 1.8% - HIV: 0.3% - If there is contact with blood through intact ...[Read More] Assessing Virus Infection Risks from Blood Contact in Sports
Understanding Virus Infection Risks in Sports: What You Need to Know
Risk of Viral Infection Hello Dr. Chen, Yesterday, while playing basketball, my hand came into contact with a friend's bleeding wound (the wound had scabbed over but was reopened during the game). I do not have any open or bleeding wounds on my hand. Given that I am unaware...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Aside from cauliflower (condyloma), other diseases are transmitted through the exchange of blood and bodily fluids, and the chance of infection is nearly zero if you have no open wounds on your skin. ● Condyloma is primarily transmitted through contact, but its location is usua...[Read More] Understanding Virus Infection Risks in Sports: What You Need to Know
Understanding a Persistent Black Spot on the Sternum: Causes and Concerns
There is a black patch on the skin at the xiphoid process of the sternum? The black patch typically does not cause any issues; it is neither painful nor itchy nor swollen. However, whenever I have a fever or cold, the patch begins to feel warm, becomes red and swollen (the swelli...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● Black spots may be benign lesions or moles, but if there are changes in shape, size, color, or borders, it is important to be cautious about the possibility of malignancy. Please consult a dermatologist. Wishing you good health, Dr. Chen Tai-Cheng from the Family Medicine Depar...[Read More] Understanding a Persistent Black Spot on the Sternum: Causes and Concerns
Can Rabies Virus Infect Through Sweat or Bath Water?
Questions about rabies? Hello doctor, my friend was suddenly licked on the calf by a dog owned by someone else while exercising in the park (the area that was licked has no wounds). He immediately returned home to take a shower and clean himself. However, he has a scrape on his a...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● In theory, it is possible for rabies virus to enter the body through wounds when exposed to the saliva of an infected animal; however, there have been no reports of indigenous or imported rabies cases in Taiwan this year, so there is no need for concern (https://goo.gl/EDU8Wc)....[Read More] Can Rabies Virus Infect Through Sweat or Bath Water?
Understanding Anal and Bowel Issues: Symptoms and Solutions
Anal and bowel issues? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing difficulty with bowel movements. Three days ago, I felt like I injured my anus during a bowel movement. At that time, my stool was normal, but towards the end, it became thin and intermittent, making it h...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding your concerns, it is recommended that you visit a colorectal surgeon for further evaluation. Maintaining a regular routine and healthy eating habits is still an important reminder. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visi...[Read More] Understanding Anal and Bowel Issues: Symptoms and Solutions
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues vs. Heat Exhaustion: A Patient's Journey
I'm not sure if it's a gastrointestinal issue or heat exhaustion? From June 6 to June 8, I experienced diarrhea, but it wasn't severe. By June 9, the diarrhea had stopped, but I continued to feel discomfort in my stomach, had a poor appetite, and felt nauseous. On ...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
Based on your description, it seems to primarily be a gastrointestinal issue; heatstroke should be considered only if you have been in an excessively hot environment for an extended period, as it is generally not that easy to occur. I would like to excerpt from my previous articl...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues vs. Heat Exhaustion: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Heat Exhaustion: Core Temperature and Blood Pressure Insights
Heat exhaustion: core body temperature and systolic blood pressure? In cases of heat exhaustion, the core body temperature typically falls below 38 degrees Celsius, and the systolic blood pressure is often greater than 90 millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are both heat-related emergencies, differing only in severity. Heat exhaustion occurs due to excessively high environmental temperatures and excessive sweating, leading to severe dehydration. Symptoms include dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, ...[Read More] Understanding Heat Exhaustion: Core Temperature and Blood Pressure Insights
Understanding Movable Lumps in the Groin: When to Seek Medical Help
There is a hard lump in the groin area? If you have a movable, painless lump under the skin in the groin area that appears white and is slightly larger than a pimple, which specialist should you consult for medical evaluation? Thank you.
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● In males, the area under the groin may present with epidermoid cysts (commonly known as sebaceous cysts) or Fordyce spots (benign sebaceous gland hyperplasia). Other conditions such as hair follicle cysts or multiple sebaceous cysts, among various skin diseases, need to be diff...[Read More] Understanding Movable Lumps in the Groin: When to Seek Medical Help
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
Understanding Skin Issues: When to See a Family Medicine Specialist
Unsure which specialty to consult? Hello, my mother is currently 50 years old. Recently, due to the hot weather, she has developed small red spots from her calves to her ankles, resembling bleeding from the blood vessels underneath. There are no abnormalities when touched, and it...
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
● It is most likely primary purpura or senile purpura. Other conditions such as benign chronic pigmented purpura (purpura pigmentosa chronica) include several disorders like telangiectatic purpura and progressive pigmented dermatosis. ● Other potential causes such as thrombocytop...[Read More] Understanding Skin Issues: When to See a Family Medicine Specialist
Understanding Unexplained Itching: When to See a Family Physician
Which department to see? Doctor, I have recently been experiencing itching on my face, hands, and feet, but there is no redness or swelling on my skin, and the itching is not localized to one specific area. What could be causing this? Which specialist should I consult?
Dr. Chen Taicheng Reply:
There are many causes of skin itching, numbering in the dozens. However, considering your age, the primary factors should be dry skin, skin inflammation (such as eczema, allergies, or contact dermatitis), and insect bites. A small portion may be related to internal medical condit...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Itching: When to See a Family Physician