Skin, Family Medicine FAQ

Risks of Mercury Poisoning from Broken Fluorescent Bulbs: What You Need to Know

Broken light tube, direct contact with skin? My mother is almost 50 years old. She just broke a fluorescent light bulb over the sink, which has probably been broken for over three years. She immediately picked it up with her bare hands, and after that, she didn't wash her ha...

Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, theoretically, elemental mercury in trace amounts should not be absorbed through intact skin; however, it is still advisable to avoid ingestion or inhalation of vapors. It is preferable to avoid contact altogether. If you are concerned, you may consider visiting a medical ...

Can You Swim with Paronychia? Healing Time and Care Tips

Can I swim with paronychia? I recently had an ingrown toenail treated, and the hospital removed the entire toenail because I had ingrown toenails on both the inner and outer sides. This was done on June 16. I would like to know how long it will take before I can get the wound wet...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Ka: 1. Since each person's condition and disease situation is different, it is best to direct your questions to your attending surgeon. 2. Generally speaking, because it is an open wound and lacks the protection of nails, the skin barrier against bacteria is very th...

Should You Worry About Rabies or Tetanus After a Stray Dog Attack?

If attacked by a stray dog, should I be concerned about rabies or tetanus? Hello doctor, I was recently attacked by a stray dog in a rural area of Chiayi, resulting in multiple small wounds that are not bleeding but have broken skin and redness. I have already washed the wounds, ...

Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, bite wounds should be properly treated immediately, and then evaluated by a physician to determine if relevant vaccinations are necessary. The results of rabies surveillance can be referenced from the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine. Please note...

Concerns About Rabies After Biking Incident with Unknown Animal

Collided with an unidentified creature while riding a bike? Hello Doctor, on the night of April 3, 2023, while riding a bike in the Shulin District of New Taipei City, my left knee collided with an unidentified creature, which I suspected to be a small bat. When I got home, I not...

Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The discomfort you described is more likely to be caused by contact dermatitis or a skin allergic reaction due to exposure to an unknown organism. Common symptoms of rabies include fever, sore throat, chills, malaise, loss of appetite, vomiting, difficulty breathing, cough...

Hydrofluoric Acid Skin Exposure: Risks, Symptoms, and Necessary Checks

Hydrofluoric acid contact with skin? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask about an incident where I accidentally got about eight drops of hydrofluoric acid on my arm while working. I immediately rinsed it with water, and my skin experienced a burning sensation. Initially, there was...

Dr. Li Zhenggang Reply:
Regarding the situation after exposure to hydrofluoric acid, it is recommended to visit a nearby medical facility's toxicology or nephrology department for follow-up. A physician will assess your condition based on their expertise and arrange appropriate examinations for you...

Understanding Belly Button Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice

Umbilical issues Hello, doctor. I recently noticed that there was quite a bit of debris in my navel, and it had an unpleasant odor. I used a cotton swab to clean it, but I accidentally broke the skin. I applied a clindamycin ointment, but I have recently noticed that there is sti...

Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Yes, please visit a family medicine clinic.

Can Cutting a Mole During Shaving Lead to Skin Cancer?

Issues Related to Mole Laceration I accidentally cut a mole while shaving, and it has been bleeding continuously. I would like to ask the doctor if a cut on a mole can really lead to cancer. I saw some cases online, so I'm a bit worried. Thank you, doctor, and sorry for the ...

Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: Generally, moles have a low risk of becoming cancerous. If you still have concerns, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist for further evaluation. Wishing you good health.

Can Alcohol Disinfecting Prevent Disease Transmission from Stray Cats?

Infection issues Hello, doctor. If a stray cat sits on a motorcycle seat and I subsequently disinfect it with alcohol, is there still a concern about the transmission of infectious diseases or infections? (I am worried about the possibility of indirect transmission.) Thank you!

Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! The most common issues related to animal contact are skin allergies and problems caused by fleas. If you have any concerns or symptoms, please seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.

Should You Rewash Clothes After Spider Contact? Expert Advice for Parents

How should this be handled? Hello, doctor. I have children at home, and I would like to ask if clothes that have been hung out to dry on the balcony have been crawled on by spiders, but I'm not sure if they have spun webs or laid eggs, and I'm also uncertain if my child...

Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If you are concerned that spiders may leave behind secretions, toxins, eggs, spider silk, or other substances on clothing that could affect health, it is advisable to wash the clothes again or even disinfect them. If children at home have worn clothing that has been crawle...

Should You Rewash Clothes After Spider Contact? Expert Advice for Parents

How should it be handled? Hello, Doctor. I have children at home, and I would like to ask if clothes that have been hung out to dry on the balcony have been crawled on by spiders, but I'm not sure if they have spun webs or laid eggs, and I'm also unsure if my child has ...

Can Applying Ointment on Vaccine Injection Site Affect Efficacy?

After receiving a rabies vaccine or a tetanus vaccine, should I apply ointment to the injection site? Hello, doctor. Last time I asked you whether it is okay to apply anti-inflammatory ointment on the injection site after receiving the rabies or tetanus vaccine, and you said it w...

Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The injection site of a vaccine needle is usually very small, so it heals in a short period of time. Therefore, applying an anti-inflammatory ointment on it will not affect the efficacy of the vaccine, and the risk of infections such as cellulitis is minimal.

Should I Get a Rabies Vaccine After a Possible Dog Encounter?

Should I get the rabies vaccine? Yesterday afternoon, I encountered a family with a little girl walking a small white dog. As I passed by them, I accidentally stepped on something that felt like the dog. At that moment, I felt something under my left foot, but I wasn't sure ...

Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Currently, rabies in Taiwan occurs only in wild animals such as ferrets and civets, and there is no transmission among domestic dogs and cats. If you encountered a pet dog and did not have any obvious external injuries, your risk of contracting rabies is very low. Therefor...

Risk of Bloodborne Infections for Nurses: What You Need to Know

Bloodborne transmission I'm sorry, but I cannot provide medical advice or information regarding potential infections. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and support.

Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, damaged skin may pose a potential risk for contact infections. It is important to ensure proper protection when engaging in any medical procedures, even in the absence of any wounds. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot pr...

Understanding Monkeypox: Transmission, Prevention, and Relationship Concerns

What is monkeypox? Hello, doctor. I have a few questions: 1. The information online states that monkeypox is primarily transmitted through skin contact. Does this mean that people should avoid touching each other altogether? What about couples, spouses, or caregivers of young c...

Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! For detailed information, please refer to the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/MPage/Qb-Lfz8PNcjdNvrAVNCVtQ. "5. Mode of Transmission (1) Human-to-Human: Monkeypox can be transmitted between individuals through close contact with the lesions, scabs, o...

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...

Unraveling the Mystery of Chronic Pain: Seeking Answers for Rare Conditions

Rare diseases with unknown origins? Hello Dr. Chen, I have been suffering from pain for over ten years. Thank you for taking the time to read my message. Ten years ago, I experienced lower back pain and was diagnosed with mild bone spurs. However, after starting physical therapy...

Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! If you are unsure about the cause of your discomfort, it is recommended to visit a family medicine clinic at a regional hospital or higher for evaluation. Based on your condition and needs, further medical management can be arranged. Thank you!

Small Black Spot Inside Lip: Causes and When to Seek Help

There is suddenly a small black spot on the inside of my lip? Hello, doctor. Recently, I suddenly noticed a small black spot on the inside of my lower lip, and I'm unsure what the cause might be. I'm worried about my health, and although I want to go to the hospital for...

Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The small black spots on the inside of your lips are likely pigment deposits, similar to moles on the skin, but located on the lips. Generally, these pigment deposits are benign unless there are changes (such as enlargement, elevation, irregular borders, or uneven color), ...

Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult for Marshall White Syndrome?

Which specialty should one consult for the treatment of Marshall-Smith syndrome? Hello, doctor. I have noticed since elementary school that my legs (mostly around the knees and calves) often have small white spots that resemble vitiligo, but they only appear when I am standing. W...

Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello Lena: It is recommended to first consult a dermatologist.

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...

Understanding Occasional Visual Disturbances: When to Seek Medical Help

Occasionally experiencing flashes of light in the vision, but the ophthalmologist cannot identify the cause? Hello Dr. Lin, recently I've been experiencing a sensation in my left eye near the outer corner that feels like seeing stars (this seems to occur more often when sitt...

Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The discomfort in your left eye may require consideration of a retinal issue. However, since you have already consulted an ophthalmologist without any specific findings, the next step would be to consider a possible neurological problem. You have also seen a neurologist, a...

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