Should You Repeat Allergy Testing After 5 Years? Understanding Changes in Allergens
Is it necessary to repeat the allergen testing for the same allergens that were tested five years ago? Hello Dr. Tseng: I am 21 years old and have had an allergic constitution since childhood. When I was 16, I underwent an allergen test (M25-130-Z MAST ALLERGY) at Chang Gung Memo...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Over 90% of individuals with chronic allergies cannot identify the cause. Even though allergens may change over a span of five years, MAST ALLERGY testing for 36 allergens still does not alter the treatment strategy. Thank you.[Read More] Should You Repeat Allergy Testing After 5 Years? Understanding Changes in Allergens
Alternatives to NSAIDs for Fever Relief and Allergy Concerns
Drug allergy Hello, doctor. If I have already experienced allergic reactions to NSAID fever reducers and have recently discovered that I am also allergic to acetaminophen, do I have other options for fever reducers? Additionally, could taking acetaminophen and traditional Chinese...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The likelihood of being allergic to paracetamol (acetaminophen) in clinical practice is very low; I rarely encounter such cases. Especially if you suspect it may be related to traditional Chinese medicine, I recommend confirming this further. F...[Read More] Alternatives to NSAIDs for Fever Relief and Allergy Concerns
Do You Need to Repeat Allergy Testing After Five Years?
Do allergens need to be tested repeatedly? Hello, Doctor Gao: I am 21 years old this year and have had an allergic constitution since childhood. When I was 16, I underwent allergen testing (M25-130-Z MAST ALLERGY) at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, which tested 36 allergens, all of...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) I still have some allergic symptoms, but I'm not sure what the allergens are. Is it necessary for me to undergo the 36-item allergen test again? Generally speaking, is there a high probability that something tha...[Read More] Do You Need to Repeat Allergy Testing After Five Years?
Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Test Results: Key Insights
Urticaria and Thyroid Testing After catching a cold at the end of February (with symptoms of sore throat and general weakness), I began to develop hives all over my body, particularly around my eyes and neck. I visited a clinic where I was prescribed steroids and received an inje...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is there a connection between urticaria and slightly elevated TSH levels? Do I need to see a rheumatologist for an examination? --> In cases of long-term urticaria, we sometimes check thyroid function. Your TSH is ...[Read More] Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Test Results: Key Insights
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Connection to Autoimmune Antibodies
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Antinuclear Antibodies Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you: 1. I have been experiencing knee joint pain for a while (but there is no redness or swelling). It hurts when I am at rest, and sometimes other bones in my lower body also ache slightly. I am ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I have been experiencing knee joint pain for a while (but without redness or swelling). It hurts when I am not moving, and sometimes other bones in my lower body also ache slightly. I am unsure if this is an early sy...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Connection to Autoimmune Antibodies
Understanding the Causes of Painless Red Spots on Skin
Small red spots appear on the skin? Since the beginning of the year, I have been experiencing painless and itchless small red spots under the skin (which disappear when pressed). Blood tests for platelet count and liver function (including tests for sexually transmitted diseases)...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
It is recommended to visit a dermatologist. If blood tests are normal and there is no diagnosis, a biopsy may be considered for further differential diagnosis. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Painless Red Spots on Skin
Addressing Medication Concerns in Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
Medication-related issues in ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, I am #191834, and I have some additional questions to ask you. Thank you for your help: 1. I have been taking Silenor for about six months, but I feel it is not very effective. What should I do? 2. My doctor did...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I have been taking Silodosin for about six months, but I feel it is not very effective. What should I do? --> Please discuss this with your prescribing physician, as there are other medications available. If neces...[Read More] Addressing Medication Concerns in Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
Understanding ANA Testing in Relation to Lupus and Allergies
Regarding ANA testing in systemic lupus erythematosus? Hello, around September 2022, I experienced redness and itching on my face and scalp, along with peeling skin and increased hair loss. I also felt fatigued and had difficulty concentrating. However, I did not have joint pain ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Although the ANA test result is negative, considering that the butterfly rash appeared in September, which was four months ago, how accurate is this blood test? Can systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a negative ...[Read More] Understanding ANA Testing in Relation to Lupus and Allergies
Preparing for Stool Tests: Dietary Guidelines and Allergies Explained
Examination issues Hello Doctor, today I visited a gastroenterologist because I was experiencing abdominal pain and was a bit worried. There is currently no family history of gastrointestinal issues, although my grandfather had some, but my parents do not. They only arranged for ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, your stool test should be a fecal occult blood test. It is indeed recommended to avoid red meat or blood products, such as pig's blood cake or rice blood cake, the night before. As for medications and vitamins, they should not have an impact. Thank you for your inquir...[Read More] Preparing for Stool Tests: Dietary Guidelines and Allergies Explained
Common Health Concerns: Allergies, Hygiene, and Urinary Tract Infections
May I ask the doctor? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you a few questions: 1. Are individuals with allergic constitutions more prone to bloating? I often need to walk after meals to aid digestion, and I wonder if this is due to my constitution or a problem with my digestive ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Some people have slower gastrointestinal motility, and taking a short walk after eating foods that are prone to causing bloating can indeed help alleviate bloating issues. 2. Unless exposed to contaminated water, it is unlikely to cause an infection. 3. Yes, holding...[Read More] Common Health Concerns: Allergies, Hygiene, and Urinary Tract Infections
Is There a Connection Between Urticaria and Immune System Disorders?
Is urticaria related to immune system disorders? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing itching in my limbs for the past three weeks. The itching has progressively worsened, so I consulted a dermatologist who diagnosed me with urticaria, although I have never had this condition b...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
There is a connection between immune dysregulation and urticaria. For further differential diagnosis, you can consult a dermatologist or an immunology/allergy specialist. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Is There a Connection Between Urticaria and Immune System Disorders?
Understanding Elevated Basophil Levels: Allergies and Blood Health in Young Adults
Eosinophils Hello Doctor, I am Enen from the article #188677. Thank you for your prompt response, but I still have some doubts that I would like to ask you again: 1. You mentioned that elevated basophil levels are related to allergies. Given that I recently had a cold and have ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. You mentioned that elevated basophil levels are related to allergies. Given that I recently had a cold and have a history of allergies, could this cause my basophil levels to be elevated? In 2020, my basophil count wa...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Basophil Levels: Allergies and Blood Health in Young Adults
Does Allergies Affect Elevated ESR Levels in Young Adults?
Can allergies cause an increase in ESR? Hello Doctor: My son is 20 years old and has had allergies since childhood. Over two years ago, he was also diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis. He is currently taking two capsules of Salazopyrin daily. In the early stages of the disease,...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, there are many reasons that can cause elevated ESR levels, and inflammation is just one of them. Allergies do not necessarily lead to increased ESR, especially if other values are normal. If you have any questions, you can consult your attending physician. Thank you for yo...[Read More] Does Allergies Affect Elevated ESR Levels in Young Adults?
Understanding Your Blood Test Results: High CPK and Eosinophil Levels Explained
Blood test Hello Doctor, I went to the emergency room yesterday and had a blood test done. My results are as follows: Hb 17.0, HCT 50.1, MCH 31.8, MCHC 34.0, MCV 94, MPV 9.0, Platelet count 156, RBC count 5.36, RDW 12.7, WBC count 45, Eosinophil 1.5, Lymphocyte 39.5, Monocyte 7.9...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Elevated CPK levels can indeed be related to vigorous exercise, and given your age, this is the most likely reason. Basophils are a type of white blood cell associated with allergies, and their proportion in the total white blood cell count is ...[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: High CPK and Eosinophil Levels Explained
Understanding Internal Itching: Causes and Solutions After Diagnosis
It feels itchy inside the body? Since the third day after being diagnosed, I have not had a fever, but I feel an internal itch throughout my body. It's very uncomfortable and hard to describe; I feel the need to keep moving to feel a bit better. Even before going to sleep at...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is true that some individuals may experience skin rashes due to COVID-19, although the likelihood is low. I would like to know if you are currently taking any medications, as it may be necessary to rule out drug or food allergies. If there are none, then it could be att...[Read More] Understanding Internal Itching: Causes and Solutions After Diagnosis
Could Your Red Rash Be Lupus? Understanding Symptoms and Allergies
Could a painless and non-itchy rash be indicative of lupus erythematosus? On October 1st, upon waking up in the morning, I noticed several small red rashes on my abdomen and arms (originally raised). Within a few hours, they flattened out, but the color remained reddish. There we...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. It sounds like urticaria, but it does not resemble lupus erythematosus. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.[Read More] Could Your Red Rash Be Lupus? Understanding Symptoms and Allergies
Understanding Asthma: Managing Persistent Cough and Heart Concerns
Asthma issues I would like to ask the doctor a few questions. Since last winter, I have been coughing persistently. I have visited many clinics, and the doctors have said it is due to allergies caused by changes in the weather, and that it would improve as the weather warms up. I...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, chronic cough can indeed have many causes. The most important thing is to rule out lung and heart issues. If auscultation is normal, the chances of severe asthma are lower, but there may be other lung problems. It is advisable to consult a pulmonology or family medicine ou...[Read More] Understanding Asthma: Managing Persistent Cough and Heart Concerns
Persistent Skin Rashes: Allergies or Immune System Issues?
Environmental stimuli and mosquito bites causing a rash that has not improved over time? Hello, I would like to ask about my friend who is 27 years old. In July, he worked in a central kitchen, which is a humid and hot environment, handling food while wearing gloves. After just s...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. My answer is as follows: Q: I would like to ask if this is considered an immune system issue? Because he only develops new red rashes on his right arm where he was bitten by mosquitoes initially, and it's not without reason that the rash...[Read More] Persistent Skin Rashes: Allergies or Immune System Issues?
Understanding Post-Treatment Reactions to Syphilis: What to Expect
Reactions after syphilis treatment? Hello, Doctor Liao. I went for an anonymous rapid syphilis test on August 13, and on August 18, I was informed that the result was positive for syphilis. On August 19, I made an appointment at the Infectious Disease Department of Pingtung Hospi...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Transmission Methods: 1. Close contact during sexual intercourse and other sexual activities is the primary route of transmission. Direct contact of wounds with secretions, bodily fluids, and other excretions (such as semen, blood, and vaginal secretions) from skin or mucosal les...[Read More] Understanding Post-Treatment Reactions to Syphilis: What to Expect
Instant Relief for Eye Allergies: Effective Solutions for Itchy Eyes
How to Immediately Relieve Itching from Eye Allergies Hello Doctor, I am currently 20 years old and my eyes occasionally itch due to allergies, but it only happens infrequently (on average less than once a day). Rubbing my eyes helps relieve the itch, but the problem is that I ha...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Antihistamine eye drops can be used as needed. Other non-antihistamine eye drops may need to be used continuously. Therefore, if the original eye drops do not have any side effects, it is recommended to continue using the original eye drops. Be...[Read More] Instant Relief for Eye Allergies: Effective Solutions for Itchy Eyes