Understanding Immune Disorders and Allergies: A Patient's Guide
Autoimmune diseases and allergic issues? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you a few questions: 1. I was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis over two years ago and started taking Celebrex, usually once a day, and sometimes twice when my back pain is worse. I would like to kn...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. You were diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis over two years ago and started taking Celebrex, typically once a day, and sometimes twice when your back pain is more severe. You are wondering if it is normal to feel tha...[Read More] Understanding Immune Disorders and Allergies: A Patient's Guide
What to Do After Accidental Antibiotic Overdose?
What should be done after accidentally taking antibiotics? I had nasal congestion and runny nose for two to three days, thinking it was just my nasal allergies. Later, I woke up to find my throat swollen and realized I had a cold. I thought I would just go to the pharmacy to buy ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Biaxin is an antibiotic that we commonly prescribe, and it can indeed have diarrhea as a side effect. If you are only experiencing a cold with a sore throat, without a fever, and your symptoms are improving, you may not need to continue taking ...[Read More] What to Do After Accidental Antibiotic Overdose?
Can Palatal Expanders Alleviate Nasal and Eye Allergy Symptoms?
Can the installation of a maxillary expander improve symptoms of nasal and ocular allergies? Hello, Doctor Zeng. I am currently 21 years old and was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis at the age of 17. Additionally, I have experienced allergic rhinitis with symptoms such as a ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
There is no evidence to suggest that the use of a maxillary expander can improve symptoms of nasal and ocular allergies. It is recommended to consult with a dentist or an otolaryngologist for further advice. I apologize for any shortcomings in my knowledge. Thank you for your que...[Read More] Can Palatal Expanders Alleviate Nasal and Eye Allergy Symptoms?
Emergency Medications for Allergies: Sneezing and Runny Nose Relief
What are some alternative medications for allergic rhinitis, such as runny nose or sneezing? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about my nose. It often runs or I sneeze when there are changes in the environment, such as when I enter or exit the bathroom, my home, or the car, a...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
It is advisable to have backup medications and stable control medications. It is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist. Thank you.[Read More] Emergency Medications for Allergies: Sneezing and Runny Nose Relief
Understanding Test Results: Concerns About Tumor Risk and Further Examinations
Please inquire about the test results? Hello, doctor. Recently, my father experienced swelling in his throat and left hand due to stress, prompting him to visit a rheumatology and immunology specialist. Based on his condition, the doctor ordered the following tests (the items lis...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. The attending physician did not inform us about the location of the tumor, nor did they provide a detailed explanation to my father regarding which specific values were problematic for the diagnosis. Could you please ...[Read More] Understanding Test Results: Concerns About Tumor Risk and Further Examinations
Health Risks of Mold Exposure in Humid Environments
Does extensive mold growth on walls pose health risks? I live in Keelung, where the humid climate has caused extensive mold growth on the walls of my room. I would like to know if living in such an environment for an extended period and inhaling a large amount of mold spores coul...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, theoretically yes, because inhaling a large amount of mold can indeed lead to allergies, and there is even a risk of infection in individuals with weakened immune systems. It is advisable to address moldy environments.[Read More] Health Risks of Mold Exposure in Humid Environments
Recurring Monthly Fevers: Unraveling the Mystery Beyond Flu and COVID
Recurring fever every month that is neither influenza nor COVID-19? Since changing jobs in the second half of last year, I've been experiencing a lot of health issues (previously, I would only catch a cold once every six months). In May, I developed numerous unexplained red ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Recurrent fever is still a concern, and I recommend that you see a rheumatologist for further evaluation and testing. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Changhua Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare is here to assi...[Read More] Recurring Monthly Fevers: Unraveling the Mystery Beyond Flu and COVID
Can Palatal Expanders Help Alleviate Nasal and Eye Allergy Symptoms?
Can the installation of a maxillary expander improve symptoms of nasal and ocular allergies? Hello, Doctor. I am a 20-year-old male junior. I was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis at the age of 17. Since childhood, I have experienced allergic rhinitis with symptoms such as a ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. It is possible that the maxillary expander may also slightly alter the nasal cavity structure, thereby improving symptoms of nasal mucosal swelling and obstruction, but the improvement in eye symptoms is more difficult to explain. There is no c...[Read More] Can Palatal Expanders Help Alleviate Nasal and Eye Allergy Symptoms?
Is My Allergic Rhinitis Leading to Asthma Symptoms?
I would like to ask if it could be asthma? I have had allergic rhinitis for several years. Recently, during the change of seasons, whenever my nose becomes congested due to allergies, I find myself needing to take deep breaths to feel more comfortable. I also tend to cough a bit ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Allergic rhinitis is indeed related to asthma. Although both conditions are associated with immune function (allergy), since they involve the respiratory system, it is advisable to consult a pulmonologist first. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rhe...[Read More] Is My Allergic Rhinitis Leading to Asthma Symptoms?
Should Asthma Patients Consider L-Arginine Supplementation?
Asthma patients taking L-arginine? Hello Doctor, I am a 23-year-old asthma patient who has been experiencing episodes for about ten years. Recently, I have had a higher demand for exercise, working out at least three times a week for two to three hours each session, with a ratio ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Currently, there are no studies in the literature indicating that L-arginine may worsen asthma. In fact, supplementation with L-arginine may help with asthma control, although more research is needed to confirm this. I believe that some studies...[Read More] Should Asthma Patients Consider L-Arginine Supplementation?
Understanding Allergic Vasculitis: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
Allergic vasculitis Hello, Doctor. About last weekend (12/10), I started to notice a rash on my legs (with no other obvious discomfort, just slight nasal discharge like nasal allergies). After two or three days, the rash increased significantly, so I visited a dermatologist. The ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If the rash improves, I believe there is no need to visit a large hospital for further examination. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.[Read More] Understanding Allergic Vasculitis: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
Understanding Anesthesia Allergies: Risks and Alternatives for Patients
Anesthesia Allergy Consultation About three years ago, I had to undergo surgery for testicular torsion. At that time, I received general anesthesia administered through an IV. I’m not sure if it was during or after the surgery, but the doctor mentioned that I developed pulmonary ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. If I developed acute pulmonary edema after surgery, is it likely due to an allergy to anesthesia, or could there be other possibilities? --> The likelihood is very low. It may be necessary to confirm whether it wa...[Read More] Understanding Anesthesia Allergies: Risks and Alternatives for Patients
Understanding High MPV and Low Platelet Count: Causes and Concerns
A high mean platelet volume (MPV) combined with a low platelet count (PLT) can indicate several underlying conditions. This combination may suggest that the bone marrow is producing platelets in response to a low Hello, doctor. In my recent blood test, my platelet count was 5.8, ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. MPV stands for Mean Platelet Volume, and a higher value indicates that your platelets are relatively younger. This is due to your underlying immune disease, which causes faster consumption of platelets, prompting the bone marrow to rapidly prod...[Read More] Understanding High MPV and Low Platelet Count: Causes and Concerns
Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Infection Risks and Long-Term Effects
Regarding COVID-19 vaccines? Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask: I received my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (AstraZeneca) on September 10, 2021, my second dose (BioNTech) on November 24, 2021, and my booster dose (BioNTech) on March 1, 2022. I would like to know what the ou...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, there is a certain probability of severe illness associated with COVID-19, which is related to factors such as the patient's age, pre-existing chronic conditions, and vaccination status. Your situation indicates that the likelihood of experiencing severe illness is lo...[Read More] Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Infection Risks and Long-Term Effects
Understanding Allergy Blood Test Results: Is Your Condition Serious?
Allergy blood test report I have been coughing for six months, and recently my nasal allergies have been almost daily, so I had blood tests done, but my lung function tests are normal. The doctor prescribed me an asthma inhaler, and I am hesitant to use it because it contains ste...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. In Eastern populations, asthma often presents primarily as a chronic cough, with typical wheezing being less common. This may be why your physician prescribed this medication. Currently, inhaled corticosteroids are the mainstay of asthma treatm...[Read More] Understanding Allergy Blood Test Results: Is Your Condition Serious?
Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns
Chronic urticaria Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if chronic urticaria can only be managed with medication. I have been taking antihistamines for over two months, and during that time, I felt fine without itching, although sometimes my skin would be a bit red. A few years ago,...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The result of the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is acceptable; although it is marked as positive, the value is still within an acceptable range according to rheumatology standards, so there is no need to worry too much. Regarding chronic urti...[Read More] Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns
Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Inquiry about Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello, Doctor. Over the past two to three years, I have frequently experienced skin allergies (rashes). When I am back in my hometown (Miaoli), my condition improves significantly during my vacation, but it immediately relapses when I return to ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. For someone like me who experiences long-term allergies that recur, could it be due to environmental factors, stress, or irregular lifestyle? What should I pay attention to or how can I improve? --> All three fact...[Read More] Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Do Allergies Affect Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Can allergies affect the symptoms of stiffness? Hello Dr. Tseng, my son is 20 years old and has both ankylosing spondylitis and allergy issues. He is currently taking two tablets of Celebrex daily for ankylosing spondylitis, but he still experiences morning stiffness for about an...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
If a person has severe allergies that lead to irregular daily routines, it may affect the stability of autoimmune diseases. Mild symptoms typically do not have such an impact. Based on your description (morning stiffness lasting about 1 hour and an ESR frequently elevated to 40-5...[Read More] Do Allergies Affect Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis?
The Connection Between Allergies and Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms
The relationship between allergies and stiffness symptoms? Hello, Doctor Gao. My son is 20 years old and has both ankylosing spondylitis and allergy issues. He is currently taking four Sulfasalazine tablets daily for ankylosing spondylitis, but he still experiences morning stiffn...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe that allergy symptoms are unrelated to stiffness symptoms. An elevated ESR may be associated with inadequate control of ankylosing spondylitis. If you are already taking four Salazopyrin tablets daily and continuously using anti-infla...[Read More] The Connection Between Allergies and Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms
Medication Consultation for Persistent Skin Allergies and Joint Concerns
Rheumatoid Arthritis Medication Consultation I have been suffering from skin allergies for over six months, with daily recurrences upon waking up. I believe it is dyshidrotic eczema, but it is very deep and extremely itchy. The outer layer has scabbed over while the inside contin...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. We often use chloroquine in patients with early immune dysfunction or rheumatic diseases. Although you only have allergic symptoms, the elevated ANA antibody levels may lead your physician to be concerned that the cause of your dyshidrosis is n...[Read More] Medication Consultation for Persistent Skin Allergies and Joint Concerns