Managing Hepatitis C in Elderly Patients: Risks and Treatment Options
Hepatitis C virus issues Hello Doctor, my grandmother is currently 91 years old. She recently had a blood test, and the results showed that she has several million copies of the hepatitis C virus. The outpatient doctor has suggested a three-month course of medication. Considering...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. If your grandmother does not have cirrhosis yet, and you are considering the side effects, it should be fine not to treat her. Since she has likely been infected for several decades, if she is 91 years old and has not shown signs of cirrhosis, it is unlikely that she wi...[Read More] Managing Hepatitis C in Elderly Patients: Risks and Treatment Options
Can Hepatitis C Patients Safely Supplement Magnesium?
Can patients with hepatitis C supplement magnesium? My mother is a hepatitis C patient with early-stage cirrhosis and splenomegaly, but she frequently experiences muscle cramps without any apparent reason, occurring both morning and night. Today, I came across an article stating ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, sudden muscle cramps and leg cramps need to be investigated for their causes. If the sudden onset is due to mineral deficiencies such as calcium, potassium, or magnesium, supplementing magnesium may be effective. The treatment for muscle cramps and leg cramps differs if th...[Read More] Can Hepatitis C Patients Safely Supplement Magnesium?
Understanding Liver Tumors: Ultrasound Findings and Next Steps
Ultrasound detected a liver tumor? Hello Doctor: I have never had an abdominal ultrasound before, but today I underwent one and found that I have mild fatty liver and a 2 cm tumor. The doctor initially believes it to be benign and mentioned that blood tests are needed. I would li...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Based on the current information provided, it is not possible to make a determination. If blood tests show positive for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or elevated tumor markers, you would be considered at high risk, and further evaluation with a CT scan or MRI is recommended. C...[Read More] Understanding Liver Tumors: Ultrasound Findings and Next Steps
Understanding Hepatitis C Window Period and Screening Necessity
Request for assistance: The necessity of screening and the window period for Hepatitis C? Hello Doctor: I would like to inquire about the window period and assessment for Hepatitis C. My previous job involved specimen collection at an external laboratory. Since the specimens were...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. There is no longer any concern about being infected with Hepatitis C, so please rest assured. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis C Window Period and Screening Necessity
Understanding Hepatitis B Screening Results: What You Need to Know
Questions about Hepatitis B screening? I apologize for asking the same question again, but this time I have the report values. Hello, I had unprotected sexual intercourse from February to April, and in August (more than 12 weeks later), I underwent screening for Hepatitis B. The ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello: If you have not been infected, there is no need to worry about repeated inquiries. Everyone's test results will not be zero; this is a matter of laboratory science and does not require further explanation. If you would like to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine, you can ...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Screening Results: What You Need to Know
Concerns About Hepatitis B Infection After Unprotected Sex: What You Need to Know
Inquire about the possibility of hepatitis B infection? I'm sorry, doctor. I keep asking you the same question. I had several instances of unprotected sexual intercourse between February and April, and I don't know the partner's medical history. I currently have no...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello: There is no need to worry about repeated inquiries if you have not been infected. Everyone's test results will not be zero; this is a matter of laboratory science and does not require further explanation. If you would like to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine, you can d...[Read More] Concerns About Hepatitis B Infection After Unprotected Sex: What You Need to Know
Risks of Blood Exposure During Acupuncture: B/C Hepatitis and HIV Concerns
Incomplete disinfection during acupuncture leading to B/C hepatitis and HIV infection? Doctor, two days ago after acupuncture on my arm, there was some local bleeding after the needle was removed. The doctor used a cotton ball to stop the bleeding and then immediately attended to...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The probability of infection is very low. If you are concerned, you can continue to monitor your health with blood tests at Changhua Hospital. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Risks of Blood Exposure During Acupuncture: B/C Hepatitis and HIV Concerns
Understanding the Relationship Between Elevated Liver Enzymes and CRP Levels
CRP index issue Hello Director Chen, my mother is 68 years old. One month ago, she visited the Infectious Disease Department at the municipal hospital due to elevated liver enzymes (GOT: 94.2, GPT: 112.7). She has been taking cholesterol-lowering medication (Rosuvastatin) for the...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, CRP levels can be affected by hepatitis, but it is important to first rule out other diseases and monitor whether they decrease as the hepatitis improves. Changhua Hospital is concerned about your well-being. Sincerely, Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding the Relationship Between Elevated Liver Enzymes and CRP Levels
Understanding Your Liver Biopsy Report: Key Insights on Hepatitis Types and Staging
Pathological Examination Report of Hepatitis Hello, Doctor. I recently underwent a liver biopsy at the hospital. After the examination, the physician only informed me of the presence of liver inflammation and recommended changes to my lifestyle, along with prescribing some liver-...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Mild steatosis and steatohepatitis (grade 1/3, stage 1/4). The report indicates: it is Grade 1 fatty infiltration and Grade 1 fibrosis, both of which are classified as mild. 2. Whether it is caused by hepatitis B or C depends on the blood test results. Fatty liver can a...[Read More] Understanding Your Liver Biopsy Report: Key Insights on Hepatitis Types and Staging
Can Hepatitis C Be Transmitted Through Oral Sex or Kissing?
Can hepatitis C be transmitted through sexual activities such as oral sex or kissing? Hello, Director Chen. I would like to ask if Hepatitis C can be transmitted through saliva and fluid exchange. A male who is a Hepatitis C carrier performed oral sex on a female (who does not ha...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. Although Hepatitis C can be transmitted through sexual contact, the probability is less than 5%, so the risk of transmission is low. Please don't worry too much. Additionally, it is recommended that Hepatitis C patients receive antiviral treatment to reduce the c...[Read More] Can Hepatitis C Be Transmitted Through Oral Sex or Kissing?
Understanding Moderate Liver Fibrosis: Is It Possible Without Viral Infection?
Liver fibrosis I was diagnosed with moderate liver fibrosis (F3 or higher) at Wan Fang Hospital. I have had Hepatitis C for 30 years and also have severe fatty liver. After further blood tests, the hospital said there was no virus present, so I do not qualify for priority appoint...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
It is possible to recheck.[Read More] Understanding Moderate Liver Fibrosis: Is It Possible Without Viral Infection?
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: What Do High AST and ALT Levels Mean?
I am puzzled that my blood test results show liver enzyme levels that are 5 to 6 times higher than the normal reference range? On November 16, my mother went for a blood test. The report came back with several abnormal liver function results: SGOT (AST) was 226, and SGPT (ALT) wa...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, please cooperate with the physician to determine if you have hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or drug-induced hepatitis. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: What Do High AST and ALT Levels Mean?
Understanding Liver Fibrosis: Treatment Options and Costs Explained
Liver fibrosis I have had hepatitis C for 30 years. When I previously had severe fatty liver, my doctor said I had depression, so I was not suitable for interferon treatment. I have been monitored every six months. Recently, Wan Fang Hospital acquired a new machine for liver fibr...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss. Once the National Health Insurance Administration announces the reduction of treatment standards next year, you may be able to access oral treatments covered by health insurance. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Liver Fibrosis: Treatment Options and Costs Explained
Understanding Hepatitis C: Treatment Options and Testing for Family Health
Hepatitis C 1. My mother is 60 years old and recently discovered through a health check that she has over 6 million hepatitis C virus (HCV) copies. She is currently undergoing blood tests for genotyping. Are there any insurance-covered treatment options available for the latest t...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. The GPT level is above the standard value, but there is no cirrhosis, and interferon treatment is acceptable. Additionally, for chronic hepatitis C with cirrhosis and no decompensated liver function, full oral antiviral treatment for hepatitis C is acceptable. 2. You ma...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis C: Treatment Options and Testing for Family Health
Can Hepatitis Be Transmitted Through Contact with Blister Fluid?
Can the fluid from a blister that comes into contact with a wound transmit hepatitis? Hello Doctor: I came into contact with another person's burn blister fluid (fresh, which I accidentally burst) on November 9th, and I have a paper cut on my hand that is about half a centim...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss. First, please confirm whether the patient has hepatitis C, and then follow up as necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Can Hepatitis Be Transmitted Through Contact with Blister Fluid?
Am I at Risk of Contracting Hepatitis C from Contact with Infected Fluids?
Will I get infected with hepatitis C? Hello Dr. Tsai, a few days ago, my finger accidentally came into contact with the urine and blood of a hepatitis C patient. The blood was wiped with a tissue, so there was a barrier, but the urine was in direct contact. My finger has some pee...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Basically, if the wound does not come into direct contact with blood, the risk of infection is very low, so there is no need to worry too much. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Am I at Risk of Contracting Hepatitis C from Contact with Infected Fluids?
Can Hepatitis C Virus Spread Through Contaminated Surfaces and Hands?
Can cleaning up blood stains still transmit hepatitis C? Doctor, I apologize for not mentioning this in my previous message. Since blood dripped onto the table, I disinfected it with tissue and alcohol. Can other people get infected with hepatitis C if they touch the table? After...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Generally, the likelihood of infection in the situation you mentioned is low. However, if you still have concerns about coming into contact with patient bodily fluids in the future, it is advisable to wear gloves. If you have further concerns, you may consult a gastroenter...[Read More] Can Hepatitis C Virus Spread Through Contaminated Surfaces and Hands?
Can You Catch Hepatitis C from Cleaning Shared Bathrooms?
Is it possible to contract hepatitis C from cleaning a restroom environment (used tissues, sanitary pads) if a colleague has hepatitis C? Hello Director Chen, 1. I have a female colleague with hepatitis C. I need to clean the restroom. Is there a risk of transmission from the s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss. Hepatitis C is a bloodborne infectious disease and is not transmitted through casual contact in everyday life, so please rest assured. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Can You Catch Hepatitis C from Cleaning Shared Bathrooms?
Can Oral Sex Transmit Hepatitis C? Risks and Lifespan After Infection
Hepatitis C, oral sex? Is it possible to contract hepatitis C through unprotected oral sex or if the tip of the penis comes into contact with someone else's semen? Additionally, if infected, what is the approximate health lifespan after infection?
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: To check for any wounds, as viruses can enter the body through them. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Can Oral Sex Transmit Hepatitis C? Risks and Lifespan After Infection
Understanding Symptoms of Chronic Hepatitis C: Intermittent vs. Persistent
Symptoms of Hepatitis C Hello doctor, I would like to ask whether the symptoms of chronic hepatitis C are intermittent (for example, feeling unwell today but not tomorrow, and then possibly feeling unwell again in a few days) or if they are continuous discomfort. Also, after the ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss. Most individuals do not exhibit symptoms. If a person is exposed to the blood or bodily fluids of a hepatitis C patient, a preliminary examination should be conducted, and blood tests can be performed 3 to 6 months later to confirm whether an infection has occurred. ...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms of Chronic Hepatitis C: Intermittent vs. Persistent