Understanding Rheumatoid Factor: Implications for Your Health
Rheumatoid arthritis factor Hello, doctor. I am a patient with ulcerative colitis, and my intestinal mucosa has recovered. Recently, after being diagnosed with COVID-19, I developed skin vasculitis on my calves. I went to the hospital for examination and blood tests, and the vasc...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Although the RF-IgM value is somewhat elevated, it is not significantly high. We generally consider values exceeding four times the upper limit of normal to be more meaningful. Therefore, if you only have the symptoms mentioned in your text, I r...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Factor: Implications for Your Health
Can You Get HIV from Drinking Water Touched by an Infected Person?
Drinking water that has been contaminated with HIV? Drinking water or beverages that have been touched by an HIV-infected person does not pose a risk of HIV transmission. HIV is primarily transmitted through specific bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, the transmission routes of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are as follows: A. There are three main transmission routes for HIV: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercour...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Drinking Water Touched by an Infected Person?
Understanding Symptoms and Management of Vasculitis: A Patient's Guide
Vasculitis symptoms issues? Doctor, I am the previous patient who inquired about vasculitis. It has been confirmed that my skin condition is not ANCA-related and has improved. However, I am unsure why this afternoon I experienced some abdominal discomfort and lower back pain. Aft...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe the symptoms you described are not specific, but if you are concerned, you can schedule an earlier follow-up appointment for tests. A simple urine test can help determine if there are any issues with your kidneys. The Allergy, Immunolo...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms and Management of Vasculitis: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Vasculitis: Post-COVID Immune Response and Concerns
Vasculitis issues I was diagnosed with COVID-19 on June 11, and around June 24, I noticed purpura and petechiae on my calves. On June 26, I visited a dermatologist who ordered blood tests including CBC, ESR, creatinine, AST, ALT, and CRP. The urine test results were all normal. A...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The ANCA test performed at a general laboratory can initially determine the presence of ANCA, and there is usually no need to specifically test for c-ANCA and p-ANCA unless the ANCA result is positive, at which point differentiation is necessary...[Read More] Understanding Vasculitis: Post-COVID Immune Response and Concerns
Scleroderma and Microalbuminuria: Understanding the Connection and Next Steps
Scleroderma and Urinary Microalbumin Hello, in April of this year, I went to the rheumatology and immunology department due to hand pain and found the following abnormalities: ANA 1:160 (AC-10) Nucleolar punctate, Anti-Scl-70 16 (-) reference value (120 au/ml), Anti-Sm 9 (-), Ant...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The results from your rheumatology examination are mostly negative, with some results falling into a gray area, making it indeed difficult to draw conclusions based on the current test results. The diagnosis of scleroderma can sometimes be confi...[Read More] Scleroderma and Microalbuminuria: Understanding the Connection and Next Steps
Concerns About Dog Scratches on an Existing Wound: Risks and Care
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about a wound on my calf that looks like it was either bitten by a mosquito or scratched due to itching. I didn't examine the wound closely, but a few days ago, my dog suddenly jumped on me and...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, unless your dog has rabies, there is a chance of transmitting rabies to you. Therefore, please regularly take your pets to the veterinarian for health check-ups and necessary vaccinations. Open wounds can allow various bacteria to enter and cause infections, so it is advis...[Read More] Concerns About Dog Scratches on an Existing Wound: Risks and Care
Understanding Finger Joint Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Finger joint pain This year, I suddenly experienced pain in the second joint of my right middle finger, so I went to the hospital to see an orthopedic doctor. After an X-ray, the doctor said there was no issue and prescribed anti-inflammatory medication, but there was no improvem...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. It is recommended to follow up with the rheumatology outpatient clinic. Some types of arthritis cannot be diagnosed with just one visit; they require observation over a period of time, and blood tests may need to be repeated if necessary. Additi...[Read More] Understanding Finger Joint Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis: Effective Relief Strategies and Treatments
Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello Doctor, I have been diagnosed with spondylitis. Currently, I experience soreness and occasional sharp pain around my left and right scapula in the morning, and I also have some discomfort in my ribs. Recently, I have been undergoing acupuncture and sw...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. In the case of early-stage ankylosing spondylitis, there typically won't be any joint adhesions yet. Therefore, in addition to exercise, manual therapy should be acceptable. However, it is best to have your physician review your X-rays and...[Read More] Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis: Effective Relief Strategies and Treatments
Understanding Oral Symptoms and HIV Concerns After Unprotected Sex
Oral symptoms raising suspicion for HIV? Hello Doctor: Nine weeks ago, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with a sex worker (two minutes of unprotected vaginal intercourse and three minutes of oral sex performed on her). About three weeks later, I experienced unexplained nasal ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control data, there are three main transmission routes for HIV: (A) Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infection. (B) Bl...[Read More] Understanding Oral Symptoms and HIV Concerns After Unprotected Sex
Can Switching to Insulin Help Manage Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels?
If the effect of using metformin after meals is not satisfactory, can insulin therapy be considered? Hello, Doctor. Thank you very much for your response. I have had diabetes for 2 years, with an initial HbA1c of 6.6 and a fasting blood glucose of 142. I have been using Metformin...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: 1. There are many factors that contribute to postprandial hyperglycemia, and there are various ways to manage it. Insulin is one of the methods. I am not aware of the specific regulations regarding insulin under the health insurance system. 2. Your physician will likely co...[Read More] Can Switching to Insulin Help Manage Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels?
Understanding HIV Test Results: What to Expect and When to Be Notified
HIV testing issues? On June 5th, I had blood tests done at the provincial hospital, and the health record showed the following urine general examination and syphilis test items: - Treponema pallidum antibody test - Bacterial culture identification test (including general bacteri...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
For HIV-related inquiries, please contact the Infectious Diseases Department. If this is regarding health check-up items, please call the Health Management Center or the Laboratory Department.[Read More] Understanding HIV Test Results: What to Expect and When to Be Notified
Understanding STD Transmission Risks When Caring for Children
Sexually transmitted infection (STI) transmission issues? Hello, Doctor: 1. I would like to ask if it is possible to transmit a sexually transmitted infection (STI) to my child if I accidentally become infected but have to take care of them at home. 2. For example, if I am in...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are typically transmitted through sexual contact, and the risk of transmission through general contact is low (though it depends on the specific STI in question). 2. No, unless the lesions of the STI come into direct contact with the ch...[Read More] Understanding STD Transmission Risks When Caring for Children
Understanding Symptoms: Sweating and Chest Pain After Diagnosis
Medical consultation Hello doctor, I would like to ask a question. I am currently on the fourth day of my diagnosis, and I have been sweating continuously while lying in bed. I also have chest pain and cannot sleep well; when I do manage to fall asleep, it’s only for about two ho...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
It still sounds like symptoms related to COVID-19. It is recommended to follow up with an infectious disease specialist or a pulmonologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Sweating and Chest Pain After Diagnosis
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
Exercise Guidelines for Patients with Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease
Exercise for Kidney Disease Hello, Doctor Wu. I have stage 2 chronic kidney disease (with a glomerular filtration rate fluctuating between 70 and 80) and a urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) below 600. Can I engage in jogging as a form of exercise? I plan to run about 2 kil...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
There are no specific exercise recommendations for kidney disease; it is advisable to consult a rehabilitation physician. In general, aerobic exercise is preferable to anaerobic exercise. Wishing you health and safety.[Read More] Exercise Guidelines for Patients with Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease
Understanding Lupus Symptoms: Differentiating Between Disease and Injury
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with lupus at the age of 18, and until this year, I was taking two quinine tablets a day. However, this year my doctor informed me that my urine protein UPCR increased from below 200 to 500, and my CRP was 0.19. As ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Most immune system issues, including lupus, often present with joint symptoms, which is why patients are monitored in rheumatology. For mild joint symptoms, we manage them with anti-inflammatory pain relievers, including Celecoxib. Celecoxib is...[Read More] Understanding Lupus Symptoms: Differentiating Between Disease and Injury
Understanding Joint Pain and Itching: Possible Causes and Solutions
Generalized joint pain and bone itching? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing joint pain and itching for about ten years. The itching sensation in my bones makes me feel restless, constantly wanting to move or twist them. The joint pain can come on suddenly and last for quite a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here is my response: Question: I would like to ask if this situation is similar to rheumatoid arthritis? Is it possible for my values to decrease? Is the frequent pain in my joints and itching in my bones due to an issue with my immune system...[Read More] Understanding Joint Pain and Itching: Possible Causes and Solutions
How to Properly Take Baraclude and Trexan for Arthritis Management
The administration methods for Baraclude and Trexan? Arthritis, Baraclude, and Trexan administration method, with folic acid supplementation, follow-up visit, received 7 tablets of Baraclude and 6 tablets of Trexan. Baraclude is taken every other day, and Trexan is taken three ti...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I have a few suggestions: 1. I recommend discussing with your physician to confirm the administration method for Trexan. I would suggest taking Trexan on an empty stomach. 2. Baraclude can be taken two hours after a meal, so while Baraclude may ...[Read More] How to Properly Take Baraclude and Trexan for Arthritis Management
Understanding Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Recovery Challenges
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy recovery issues? Hello Doctor, my father (59 years old) has been experiencing numbness in his legs since October of last year. By January, his condition deteriorated rapidly from being able to walk to having difficulty walking within just a few week...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
1. Seeking a second opinion, if necessary, is not a waste of time. 2. Some conditions can be cured, while others can only be managed. However, not treating them is not an option, and improvement may take time. 3. If leg swelling cannot be adequately controlled through diet al...[Read More] Understanding Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Recovery Challenges
Understanding STD Risks After Intimate Encounters: What You Need to Know
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) transmission Hello Doctor: Recently, I engaged in sexual activities with a sex worker, where we bathed and had intimate contact. We both shaved beforehand, but I am unsure if there were any cuts. During the encounter, the following occurred:...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan (https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Disease/Index), there are three main transmission routes for HIV: A. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with a...[Read More] Understanding STD Risks After Intimate Encounters: What You Need to Know