Post-Isolation Cleaning Tips for Safe Family Reunions After COVID-19
I would like to inquire about the disinfection measures after recovering from a confirmed case? Hello, Dr. Hsiao. I would like to ask you a question. After a confirmed COVID-19 case has completed 7 days of isolation, should the room and its contents be disinfected before allowing...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Zheyi, 1. When COVID-19 first emerged, research reports indicated that this coronavirus could survive on various surfaces for different durations: 4-5 days on paper, 4 days on glass, 4 days on wood, 48 hours on steel, 8 hours on surgical gloves, 2-8 hours on aluminum, a...[Read More] Post-Isolation Cleaning Tips for Safe Family Reunions After COVID-19
Understanding Weight Gain and Abdominal Changes: A Medical Perspective
Weight gain and body shape changes - increased abdominal fat? Hello Dr. Hou, I have a few questions regarding weight gain (I am 156 cm tall and weigh 48.4 kg). 1) Since the Lunar New Year, my weight has been steadily increasing (from 46 kg to the current 48.4 kg), and fat has s...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, an increase in the intake of sugary beverages can easily lead to weight gain, so it is recommended that you start with dietary control. As for whether steroids have an impact, it is advisable to discuss this with your rheumatology and immunology special...[Read More] Understanding Weight Gain and Abdominal Changes: A Medical Perspective
Unexplained Bruise-Like Pain Without Visible Marks: Should You See a Doctor?
Pain resembling a bruise, but the skin appears to have no discoloration? There are large areas of the body that have this sensation; if not pressed, there is no feeling, but a light touch causes a bruised pain (the skin surface does not change color). This is mostly distributed o...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello Ms. Li: You can first visit the orthopedic department to determine if there are any abnormalities.[Read More] Unexplained Bruise-Like Pain Without Visible Marks: Should You See a Doctor?
Is Washing Hands with Water Alone Worse Than Not Washing?
Regarding handwashing and bacteria/viruses? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about something I've seen in the news and read in various sources. They say that washing hands with just water is equivalent to not washing them at all, and that if hands are not dried properl...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Paul: 1. The surface of our skin naturally harbors a variety of bacteria; the air and environment are also filled with various microorganisms and spores. When these settle on our skin, they can germinate or proliferate in suitable conditions (including temperature, humi...[Read More] Is Washing Hands with Water Alone Worse Than Not Washing?
Managing Minor Wound Care After a Car Accident: Tetanus Concerns
Wound issues after a car accident? Hello, Doctor: A few days ago, I had an accident and fell, resulting in a localized abrasion on my lower leg (about 2-3 cm). About half an hour later, I went to the pharmacy to purchase antiseptic products, and the next day I visited the hospita...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which is found in soil and animal feces, and it invades the human body through broken skin. It can also be contracted after burns or animal bites. Since tetanus bacteria are anaerobic, the likelihood of infection from ...[Read More] Managing Minor Wound Care After a Car Accident: Tetanus Concerns
Chest Rash and Rib Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Help
Rash under the left breast along the bra line and behind the bra clasp, with pain in the lower left rib area? 1. Recently, I've been feeling low on energy and easily fatigued, with a slight discomfort in my throat. 2. My neck feels stiff and uncomfortable, similar to a stiff...
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello from Taipei to Vienna: For items 2 and 4, there may be inflammation of the muscles and cartilage; please pay attention to whether your bra is too tight or if the underwire is causing pressure. For items 1, 5, and 6, please consult an otolaryngologist to check for pharyngiti...[Read More] Chest Rash and Rib Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Help
Understanding Umbilical Skin Issues and Their Possible Connection to Diarrhea
Umbilical dermatitis Hello Doctor, I have two questions I would like to ask: 1. A few days ago, I noticed a patch of broken skin next to my navel, and the navel itself appears red, swollen, and peeling, with a slight aching sensation. I went to the pharmacy to ask the pharmac...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The ingredients in the Yuan Chao Shuyi Skin Ointment include antifungals, steroids, and antibiotics, which should be effective for general epidermal infections. However, if the infection around your navel has penetrated deeper into the tissue, you may need to seek medic...[Read More] Understanding Umbilical Skin Issues and Their Possible Connection to Diarrhea
Is It Safe to Measure Blood Pressure After Blood Draw on the Same Arm?
Measure blood pressure on the same arm after drawing blood? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about an incident that occurred today. After visiting the emergency department, I had blood drawn and a soft IV catheter placed in my left hand. After leaving the hospital, I applied pre...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The bleeding and swelling of the wound on your left hand after measuring blood pressure is likely due to the blood vessel injury caused by the blood draw being further aggravated by the pressure from the blood pressure cuff, which caused it to rupture again. This should no...[Read More] Is It Safe to Measure Blood Pressure After Blood Draw on the Same Arm?
Rabies Vaccine: Do You Need More Shots After Recent Animal Bite?
If you were bitten last month and received four doses of rabies vaccine, and then you were bitten again this month, you should still receive additional doses of the rabies vaccine. The post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) protocol typically includes a series of vaccinations after a po...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Yuan: 1. The risk of rabies in Taiwan is currently limited to wild animals in the central, southern, and eastern mountainous regions, primarily involving the badger as the main infected species, with a few cases involving the Formosan ferret-badger. The current regulati...[Read More] Rabies Vaccine: Do You Need More Shots After Recent Animal Bite?
Concerns About Infection Risks from Minor Blood Sampling Injuries
Infection issues Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been feeling anxious about an issue. I used a safety lancet (one touch) for blood sampling, and I have a small wound. After about 10 hours, the next day when I went to work, I forgot about the blood sampling wound and accidental...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Sir, According to the announcement from the Centers for Disease Control, the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is transmitted through contact with blood or bodily fluids (semen, vaginal secretions, breast milk) that come into contact with mucous membranes or open skin woun...[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks from Minor Blood Sampling Injuries
Assessing the Risk of Vibrio Infections After Ocean Exposure
Is there a risk of infection from Vibrio species? Hello, doctor. I am a 17-year-old high school student. Today, I went to the beach in Kenting. I knew I had a mosquito bite on my foot that had broken the skin, so I avoided going into the water. However, I accidentally came into c...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: It is generally recommended to clean wounds with saline solution, apply an appropriate ointment, and monitor for any changes in the wound. If there are signs of redness, heat, swelling, or pain, or if the wound does not heal, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Wis...[Read More] Assessing the Risk of Vibrio Infections After Ocean Exposure
Rabies Risk After Contact with Animal Remains: What You Need to Know
Regarding rabies exposure? Recently, I went to Shuo Creek in Taitung and discovered an animal carcass submerged in the water (the body was already skeletal but still had some soft tissue). Out of curiosity, I touched the carcass, and since I have a habit of biting my lips, I only...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen: 1. According to the announcement from the Centers for Disease Control on May 3, 2019, exposure to wild mammals (such as badgers, civets, Taitung money mice, bats, etc.) with an exposure level of Category II (inclusive) or higher requires immediate medical attentio...[Read More] Rabies Risk After Contact with Animal Remains: What You Need to Know
Understanding Anal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
Anal issues I have been experiencing some constipation recently, and for the past few days, I've noticed that the skin at the junction of my buttocks is painful when pressed or touched, almost like it's chafed. What could this be? Do I need to see a doctor? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your condition may be an acute anal fissure caused by constipation, primarily due to hard stools passing through the anus, which can injure the anal sphincter due to straining. Typically, conservative treatment is the main approach, and surgery is usually not required. It ...[Read More] Understanding Anal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Underarm Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Axillary pain Initially thought to be premenstrual symptoms, but due to intermittent pain lasting about a month, with pain in the right armpit, shoulder pain, back pain, and chest tightness (unable to sleep lying down). I have tried massage to relieve discomfort, but I experience...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your discomfort involves the armpit, shoulder, back, and chest. The organs to consider include the skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, breasts, lungs, and heart. Therefore, it is recommended that you first visit a family medicine physician for an initial examination....[Read More] Understanding Underarm Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult After COVID-19 Symptoms?
Which specialty should I see? Hello Doctor, I contracted COVID-19 two months ago, experiencing symptoms such as cough, sore throat, body aches, loss of appetite, nausea, and difficulty breathing. I did not seek medical attention during that time. After recovering (with a negative...
Dr. Hou Angting Reply:
Hello: After being infected with COVID-19, some individuals may experience discomforting symptoms. It is recommended that you visit an otolaryngology clinic for further evaluation. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult After COVID-19 Symptoms?
Understanding Monkeypox Transmission: Risks in Medical Settings
Transmission routes of monkeypox? Hello doctor, monkeypox is now starting to spread among humans. I would like to ask about the transmission routes. If I go to the hospital for an ultrasound examination, and I need to remove my shirt and lie on the bed for the examination, if the...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it is indeed possible to contract an infection. If the skin lesions of a previously infected monkeypox patient have ruptured, the monkeypox virus would be released in large quantities, and any objects that come into contact with these lesions cou...[Read More] Understanding Monkeypox Transmission: Risks in Medical Settings
Understanding Unexplained Itching: Possible Causes and Solutions
Itching in the flesh? I have been waking up frequently in the morning due to itching, but I can't pinpoint the exact area that itches. Only when I pinch the skin deeply can I find some relief, but scratching the surface doesn't seem to help. What could be the issue?
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! I recommend that you visit a dermatologist.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Itching: Possible Causes and Solutions
Concerns After Eating Expired Nuts: Taste Changes and Health Effects
After consuming a 450g can of spoiled black nut granola, I feel that my sense of taste is off and my body seems to be deteriorating? One day, I found a can of nuts that I had purchased a while ago (similar to commercially packaged powdered milk cans) and thought it should be fine...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The main concern with accidentally consuming spoiled canned nuts is the risk of bacterial infection, which commonly presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain or diarrhea. However, since you do not have gastrointestinal discomfort and your symptoms of altered taste have...[Read More] Concerns After Eating Expired Nuts: Taste Changes and Health Effects
Can COVID-19 Cause Bruise-Like Marks on the Chest?
Pneumonia issues I would like to ask about whether COVID-19 can cause marks on the chest that resemble those from gua sha. My boyfriend was diagnosed on Monday, and yesterday he noticed light marks on his chest that look similar to gua sha marks. They are not very prominent, but ...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Skin manifestations are rare in COVID-19 infections; when they do occur, the most common presentations are rashes or erythema. Of course, the marks on your boyfriend's chest that resemble abrasions are also a possibility. It is advisable to monitor your boyfriend'...[Read More] Can COVID-19 Cause Bruise-Like Marks on the Chest?
Long-Term Facial Muscle Weakness: Which Specialist Should You See?
If you are experiencing long-term facial muscle weakness, you should consult a neurologist? Hello, doctor. I've loved using computers since I was young, and my improper posture has led to stiffness in my right shoulder and upper back. I used to experience numbness frequently...
Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Your symptoms can be summarized as sensory abnormalities in the right side of your back, right shoulder, right side of your neck, right side of your face, and right eye, along with abnormal movements of the right eye. I personally believe this may be related to a neurologi...[Read More] Long-Term Facial Muscle Weakness: Which Specialist Should You See?