Understanding Throat Discomfort: Is It Acid Reflux or Anxiety?
Sensation of a foreign body in the throat? I have been experiencing a sensation of choking or difficulty swallowing every time I eat for about two months. I visited an ear, nose, and throat specialist who performed an endoscopy and found only inflammation. The doctor asked if I h...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, the discomfort of a foreign body sensation in the throat should indeed be evaluated by an otolaryngologist. Gastroesophageal reflux is also a common cause, so it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for diagnosis. Regarding mental and emotional aspects, it is essen...[Read More] Understanding Throat Discomfort: Is It Acid Reflux or Anxiety?
Persistent Fever for a Week: Understanding Unexplained Symptoms
Persistent high fever for one week? I have been experiencing a high fever of about 38.3 degrees Celsius at night, accompanied by a headache, for the past 8 days. I do not have any other cold symptoms such as cough, runny nose, or sore throat. There is no abdominal pain, and only ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, if you have a persistently elevated body temperature, it is advisable to investigate the underlying cause. It is recommended to consult an infectious disease specialist for evaluation to rule out the possibility of infection. Additionally, autoimmune diseases or tumors can...[Read More] Persistent Fever for a Week: Understanding Unexplained Symptoms
Can You Get Rabies from Touching a Wild Cat's Saliva?
Could this lead to a rabies infection? I touched a wild kitten tonight, and its behavior seemed normal. I came into contact with its mouth and saliva for about twenty seconds, and then I scratched an already scabbed wound. Is there a risk of infection?
Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello, the rabies virus is primarily found in the saliva of animals and is mainly transmitted directly from animals to humans. The risk of transmission through saliva exposed to the air is relatively low. If you experience symptoms such as fever, chills, sore throat, headache, or...[Read More] Can You Get Rabies from Touching a Wild Cat's Saliva?
Should You Get Rabies and Tetanus Shots After Cat Scratches?
Scratched by a feral cat? If your daughter was scratched by a stray cat, it is important to consider rabies and tetanus vaccinations. Since she was scratched three times by different cats, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. For rabies, the risk depends on the...
Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
Hello! The initial symptoms of rabies are nonspecific, such as fever, sore throat, chills, malaise, loss of appetite, vomiting, difficulty breathing, cough, weakness, anxiety, and headache, or specific symptoms related to the site of a bite or scratch. After several days, symptom...[Read More] Should You Get Rabies and Tetanus Shots After Cat Scratches?
Accidentally Hitting Your Throat: What to Know and When to Worry
Accidentally hit your own throat? Hello, Doctor. I accidentally hit my throat while waving my hand. Although it shouldn't have been too hard, I feel a strange sensation when swallowing saliva. It's not painful, just odd. I looked it up online and found that being hit in...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello! If you have any concerns, it is recommended that you consult with a family medicine clinic. Thank you![Read More] Accidentally Hitting Your Throat: What to Know and When to Worry
Understanding the Link Between Neutrophils, Lymphocytes, and Reflux Esophagitis
Elevated neutrophil levels and decreased lymphocyte counts may be associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and laryngitis? Hello, doctor. I would like to understand more about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and its potential effects. If GERD causes mild infl...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, if there are inflammatory changes in the body, it may lead to alterations in the distribution of white blood cells. It is recommended to consult your family physician for the best assessment based on your symptoms. Please note: online consultations are not equivalent to in...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Neutrophils, Lymphocytes, and Reflux Esophagitis
Understanding Persistent Hiccups: Causes and Treatment Options
Forced Hiccup Six months ago, I suddenly started experiencing a persistent hiccuping sensation while leaning on the table. Although it is referred to as hiccups, there are times when I haven't eaten much, and there are no signs of bloating or gastrointestinal issues, yet I s...
Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! It is recommended that you seek consultation with a gastroenterologist specializing in hepatobiliary medicine.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Hiccups: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Throat Discomfort
Body temperature issues Hello Doctor, on April 21, I experienced mild throat irritation and phlegm, along with a slight fever starting after 5 PM (around 37 degrees Celsius). After a week without improvement, I visited a family medicine clinic on April 30. Since my father had a m...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, a body temperature of 37 degrees Celsius is still within the normal range. However, it is advisable to continue monitoring any changes in temperature. Additionally, the association between mycoplasma and gastroesophageal reflux disease is likely minimal. If you have sympto...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Throat Discomfort
HPV Throat Infection and Neck Pain: Seeking the Right Specialist
HPV infection in the throat and cervical spine issues (recently discovered)? 1. I visited both an otolaryngologist and a pulmonologist but still felt uncomfortable. Later, after undergoing an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with a gastroenterologist, I discovered that I had poly...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, regarding HPV infection, you may consult an infectious disease specialist for assistance. If you continue to experience discomfort in your cervical spine, you should seek an evaluation from a neurosurgeon. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-pers...[Read More] HPV Throat Infection and Neck Pain: Seeking the Right Specialist
Understanding COVID-19 Transmission Risks in Social Settings
Transmission potential of Wuhan pneumonia? Hello, doctor. Last week I had a bit of a cold and went to see an ENT specialist. I'm still taking medication. The doctor said my lungs sounded fine, but I sometimes have a sore throat along with phlegm and nasal discharge, so I was...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Ning Ning: 1. The Wuhan pneumonia virus (COVID-19 virus) belongs to the second type of coronavirus (also known as β-coronavirus); it is an enveloped RNA virus with a large genome (26-32 kb) and is classified as a zoonotic virus. Currently, the primary transmission rout...[Read More] Understanding COVID-19 Transmission Risks in Social Settings
Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms and Infection Risks in Elderly Care
Please consult a doctor for your questions? Hello, Dr. Hsiao. Last week, my grandfather had surgery for a liver tumor at Taipei Veterans General Hospital in Neihu. I occasionally help take care of him. After the surgery, he stayed in the intensive care unit for two days before be...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Hs: 1. The primary mode of transmission for COVID-19 is through direct contact with respiratory secretions or droplets containing the virus. The estimated incubation period is mostly between 1 to 14 days, with the most common duration being around 5 days. Clinical manif...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Symptoms and Infection Risks in Elderly Care
Understanding HPV in the Throat: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
HPV infection in the throat, also known as oropharyngeal HPV infection, can occur and is associated with certain types of human papillomavirus. It is important to understand that while HPV is commonly known for causing cervical cancer, it can Hello, doctor. Since early February, ...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it may be a case of human papillomavirus infection leading to throat polyps. If you continue to experience discomfort, it is recommended to follow up with an otolaryngologist. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to an in-pers...[Read More] Understanding HPV in the Throat: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Understanding the Risks of Choking: What You Need to Know
Choking risk? Hello, doctor. I've been having a cold for the past few days and visited an ENT specialist last week. The doctor mentioned that I had a mild cold and prescribed some medication for me. While eating udon noodles, I suddenly felt like I choked on the slippery noo...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello! 1. Based on your description, if you experience persistent coughing, a sensation of foreign body in the chest, pain below the rib cage, or even a high fever after choking, you should seek medical attention promptly. 2. However, since each individual's constitution var...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Choking: What You Need to Know
Concerns About Swallowing Bone Fragments and Side Pain Explained
Please consult a doctor? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask what might happen if I accidentally swallowed a small piece of bone. I bit into some while eating pig trotters and swallowed it, but I don't feel like it got stuck in my throat. Another question is about some pain...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Ann: 1. Fish bones, chicken bones, pork bones, or beef bones can potentially get lodged in the throat or esophagus, and sometimes they may need to be removed using an endoscope to alleviate pain or prevent mediastinal infection and inflammation. If they pass through the...[Read More] Concerns About Swallowing Bone Fragments and Side Pain Explained
Understanding Choking Hazards: What to Do After Food Goes Down the Wrong Pipe
Suspected aspiration? Hello, Doctor. While eating corn, I suddenly felt uncomfortable as if something had gone into my nasal cavity. It felt like it slipped down, and I wasn't sure if I swallowed it. I coughed a couple of times, feeling like I choked a bit. Afterwards, I had...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Mo: 1. Aspiration pneumonia refers to a bacterial infection of the lungs caused by the inhalation of harmful gases, liquids, or solid particles, leading to mechanical obstruction and chemical injury; it often results in bronchopneumonia. This condition is most commonly ...[Read More] Understanding Choking Hazards: What to Do After Food Goes Down the Wrong Pipe
Post-Cold Concerns: When to Seek Medical Advice for Throat and Chest Issues
Inquiry after a cold? Hello Doctor, about a week ago I started feeling discomfort in my throat and I was worried that I might have contracted a virus, especially since many classmates in my class frequently cough without wearing masks. I visited an ENT specialist, who said that m...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Hsiao Yi: 1. Based on your description and medical history, the likelihood of contracting COVID-19 is very low. I personally agree with your attending physician's assessment that it may be due to post-nasal drip. 2. Please avoid ice products or cold drinks, mainta...[Read More] Post-Cold Concerns: When to Seek Medical Advice for Throat and Chest Issues
Recognizing Early Signs of Rabies: What to Watch for During the Incubation Period
Dear Dr. Hsiao: If a patient unfortunately contracts rabies, are there any unusual signs that can be detected during the incubation period before the onset of early symptoms? In 2017, a female patient in Xi'an, China, experienced frequent urination, urgency, numbness in the ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
In 2017, a female patient in Xi'an, China, developed frequent urination, urgency, numbness in the leg where she was bitten by a dog, and back pain after more than 20 days post-bite. After seeing local orthopedic and urology specialists without improvement, her condition wors...[Read More] Recognizing Early Signs of Rabies: What to Watch for During the Incubation Period
Outdoor Cough Etiquette: Protecting Your Child's Health
Outdoor Cough Etiquette Inquiry Hello Doctor, During lunchtime, I accompanied my younger sister home from school, and on the way, we encountered a man who was coughing without wearing a mask and sprayed towards us. When we got home, I quickly told my sister to wash her hands an...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Mei: 1. Covering your mouth and nose while coughing to prevent droplet spread is a basic etiquette and a measure for infectious disease protection. Unfortunately, there are still a very small number of individuals who do not pay attention to this. Currently, we are faci...[Read More] Outdoor Cough Etiquette: Protecting Your Child's Health
Unexplained Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help for Your Health
I've been experiencing unusual health conditions for a while and I'm unsure whether I should seek medical attention? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing some symptoms that I am unsure are due to psychological stress or a viral infection. My condition fluct...
Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you first consult your family physician for a basic evaluation. If there are specific issues, you can be referred to other specialty clinics. It is important to maintain a regular routine, ensure a balanced diet, engage in moderate exercise, and get ...[Read More] Unexplained Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help for Your Health
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever: Causes and Concerns
Persistent low-grade fever related issues? Hello Doctor, since March 29, I have been experiencing a temperature between 37.5 and 38 degrees Celsius, but I haven't felt particularly unwell, only mild diarrhea and muscle soreness. I work in the service industry and commute by ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. W: 1. Based on your description, while it cannot be completely ruled out, the likelihood of contracting COVID-19 is low. 2. There are many causes for fever, chills, and respiratory symptoms; if these symptoms persist, rather than worrying, it would be better to discuss ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever: Causes and Concerns