Can HPV Vaccine Prevent Transmission and Progression After Infection?
HPV vaccine questions Hello, doctor. I would like to ask, if someone is infected with HPV but immediately receives the HPV vaccine, although it won't cure the infection, can it prevent the progression of the disease or reduce the transmissibility? (I do not want to risk infe...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Yes, current research shows that individuals infected with HPV can still benefit from vaccination, as it can reduce the risk of developing related diseases such as genital warts, anal cancer, and other HPV-related conditions. Therefore, vaccination is still recommended![Read More] Can HPV Vaccine Prevent Transmission and Progression After Infection?
Alternatives to Carvedilol for Managing Hypertension and Gum Issues
Antihypertensive medication If you are currently taking carvedilol (a beta-blocker) for hypertension but are experiencing issues with gum swelling and abscesses, there are alternative classes of antihypertensive medications that you could consider. For example, you might discuss ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Regarding your question about antihypertensive medications, if there are adverse drug reactions that require adjustments, we will need your past medical history, medication history, and responses to the medications. Additionally, we will need to consider your physical exam...[Read More] Alternatives to Carvedilol for Managing Hypertension and Gum Issues
Can Slug Mucus Spread Parasites in Your Home? Health Risks Explained
Slugs are crawling all over the house? Hello, doctor. I have seen reports that the mucus secreted by mollusks such as snails, slugs, and other soft-bodied animals can contain the parasitic worm Angiostrongylus cantonensis. A few days ago, a large slug about 10 centimeters long cr...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
The pathogen of Guangdong blood fluke infection is the Guangdong blood fluke. In 1933, Mr. Chen Xintao first discovered this parasite in the lungs (pulmonary arteries) of rats while investigating parasites in the black rat and brown rat in Guangdong Province, China. In 1937, a Ja...[Read More] Can Slug Mucus Spread Parasites in Your Home? Health Risks Explained
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks and Skin Care for Psoriasis
HIV transmission issues Dear Dr. Liao, I do not engage in any high-risk behaviors, but I have psoriasis that causes redness and peeling of the skin on my limbs (sometimes I scratch until I break the skin or cause cracks due to itching). Does this condition increase my risk of in...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, the transmission routes of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are as follows: 1. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluid...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks and Skin Care for Psoriasis
Managing Dizziness and Appetite Loss After Mild Stroke in Seniors
Consultation for family members? Hello, doctor. My father is 61 years old. Recently, he has been feeling dizzy every day. He was hospitalized in the neurology department, and the examination results showed a mild cerebral infarction, carotid artery atherosclerosis, and elevated b...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The user has reported that their blood pressure and blood sugar levels are well controlled after taking medication, but they still feel dizzy, indicating that there may be other unresolved issues. It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment with a neurologist, who wil...[Read More] Managing Dizziness and Appetite Loss After Mild Stroke in Seniors
Unexplained High CRP Levels: Seeking Answers for Persistent Pain
Elevated CRP levels with no identifiable cause? Hello, doctor. Since the end of March, I have been experiencing generalized stiffness and pain. I have seen specialists in family medicine, rehabilitation, orthopedics, rheumatology and immunology, infectious diseases, pain manageme...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The unit for CRP can be either mg/dL or mg/L in our country, so the significance of the number 9 will differ accordingly. Additionally, I recommend that you continue to follow up with the rheumatology department, as your physician will monitor ...[Read More] Unexplained High CRP Levels: Seeking Answers for Persistent Pain
How to Handle Your Child's Pinworm Infection: Essential Tips and Treatments
Childhood parasitic infections Hello Dr. Lin, I apologize for the interruption! I would like to ask what to do if my elementary school daughter has a pinworm infection. The other night, she woke up in the middle of her sleep complaining of itching around her buttocks. Upon checki...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
The treatment methods for different intestinal parasitic infections vary, and it is recommended to take children to a healthcare provider for diagnosis and to use antiparasitic medications as prescribed by the physician. Family members living in the same household usually need to...[Read More] How to Handle Your Child's Pinworm Infection: Essential Tips and Treatments
Understanding Seasonal Variations in CRP Levels for Ankylosing Spondylitis
CRP levels are generally higher in winter and lower in non-winter months. It is unclear if this has any specific significance? Hello, Doctor. My son is 20 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for 3.5 years. He has been undergoing regular medication treatme...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I don't have a very good explanation for this part. However, the difference in CRP levels between the two time points is not significant, so I believe that more aggressive treatment changes are not necessary. I think that during winter, th...[Read More] Understanding Seasonal Variations in CRP Levels for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Managing High Creatinine Levels: Hydration and Dietary Choices
Elevated creatinine levels? A month ago, I visited a doctor due to gout, and after blood and urine tests, I was found to have a high uric acid level of 9.9 and a creatinine level of 1.2. The doctor advised me to drink more water. After increasing my water intake, I started drinki...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
In addition to excessive meat intake, consuming beverages high in fructose can also lead to elevated uric acid levels, so it is advisable to limit the intake of sugary drinks.[Read More] Managing High Creatinine Levels: Hydration and Dietary Choices
Understanding HPV Recurrence: Concerns and Vaccination Benefits
Regarding the recurrence rate of HPV? Hello, Doctor. About six years ago, I had genital warts in my anal area due to my reckless youth. At that time, I underwent treatment with electrocautery and topical medications. I experienced severe itching at night, but over the years, alth...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First of all, it is not easy to completely cure genital warts; safe sexual practices and contact isolation are necessary. 2. The optimal timing for administering the HPV vaccine is before the onset of sexual activity; however, young men and women who are currently sexually act...[Read More] Understanding HPV Recurrence: Concerns and Vaccination Benefits
Persistent Dry Cough After COVID-19: Understanding Symptoms and Management
A slight cough (non-productive) in the throat persisting for six months after a confirmed COVID-19 infection? Hello Doctor: I am 20 years old and have ankylosing spondylitis. I tested positive for COVID-19 in early October 2022, experiencing mild symptoms (low fever for 1-2 days,...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: After being diagnosed with COVID-19, there may be upper respiratory symptoms. If the symptoms persist, you may visit a hospital for medical care to alleviate the symptoms. Thank you for your message![Read More] Persistent Dry Cough After COVID-19: Understanding Symptoms and Management
Long COVID Management Tips for Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Considerations for Long COVID Treatment in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello Doctor: My son, who is 20 years old, has a history of ankylosing spondylitis. He tested positive for COVID-19 in early October 2022, experiencing mild symptoms (low-grade fever for 1-2 days, mus...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Is the slower recovery from long COVID possibly related to ankylosing spondylitis? How long does it take to fully recover? --> Long COVID can be monitored for three months; after three months, most symptoms should g...[Read More] Long COVID Management Tips for Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Managing Weight Gain with Hypothyroidism: Tips and Advice
Hypothyroidism and weight gain? Hello Doctor, I just learned that I have hypothyroidism and have gained 25 kilograms over the past year. I am currently on medication, and my thyroid levels are normal, but I am still unable to lose weight. I have significant gray hair, often feel ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, please consult with the physician who is currently monitoring your condition and prescribing medication. I'm not sure if the symptoms you mentioned are directly related to hypothyroidism; additional endocrine and internal medicine blood tests may be necessary.[Read More] Managing Weight Gain with Hypothyroidism: Tips and Advice
Interpreting Blood Test Results for Acute Myeloid Leukemia Risk
Blood test report Based on the provided data, it is challenging to definitively diagnose acute myeloid leukemia (AML) without further clinical context and additional tests. However, several key laboratory findings may raise suspicion for hematological disorders, including AML: 1...
Dr. Li Yanquan Reply:
Please consult a specialized hematologist. Diagnosing a condition cannot rely solely on blood tests, as it can be very dangerous. Thank you.[Read More] Interpreting Blood Test Results for Acute Myeloid Leukemia Risk
Understanding 40X Negative ANA Results: Implications and Follow-Up Questions
The ANA report is 40X (negative)? 1. The test result of 40X (neg) indicates that there are still some antibodies present, but it is not a significant level. 2. Since there is still concern about potential future infection, it is advisable to wait approximately 3 to 6 months bef...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. The test report shows a value of 40X (neg). Does this result indicate that there are still some antibodies present or none at all? --> The antibody level is very low, and for a rheumatologist, this still indicates...[Read More] Understanding 40X Negative ANA Results: Implications and Follow-Up Questions
Can You Get Infected from a Used Needle During Blood Draw?
Is there an infection? Hello doctor, the other day at the hospital, after a person had their blood drawn and left, I sat down next. I noticed that the needle cap used by the nurse was already opened and exposed to the air before she drew my blood. I suspect that the nurse did not...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infectio...[Read More] Can You Get Infected from a Used Needle During Blood Draw?
Risk of Infection from Using a Potentially Used Hair Removal Razor
Infection issues Hello, doctor. Today I used a newly purchased hair removal razor to remove hair from my intimate area, but I found that the blade was already dull after use. I suspect it might be a returned item, as the packaging was just a simple adhesive type that does not con...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in sexual activities such as oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluids ...[Read More] Risk of Infection from Using a Potentially Used Hair Removal Razor
Managing Antiphospholipid Antibodies: Aspirin Use Before Pregnancy
Antiphospholipid antibodies Hello doctor, I have weak positive IgG antiphospholipid antibodies and an ANA of 320+. I am currently taking a low dose of aspirin. I would like to ask how long I should continue taking the medication before trying to conceive for the best outcome. Tha...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe you can conceive at any time. The purpose of using aspirin is to enhance the chances of successful pregnancy and to prevent complications. As long as you start taking it, you can begin your pregnancy planning. Wishing you all the best...[Read More] Managing Antiphospholipid Antibodies: Aspirin Use Before Pregnancy
Understanding Pre-Diabetes: Does It Affect Future Pancreatic Function?
Diabetes mellitus Previously, during a check-up for glycated hemoglobin, the doctor mentioned that some indices were slightly elevated, indicating prediabetes. After a period of self-management, my blood sugar levels are now normal. Given this medical history, will the pancreatic...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Typically, young individuals have a fast recovery of bodily functions. As long as there is no history of heavy drinking, pancreatic function is unlikely to be affected. However, regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Pre-Diabetes: Does It Affect Future Pancreatic Function?
Understanding Your Immune Report: What Do the Results Mean?
Immunology Report Issues Dear Dr. Gao, I recently received the following immunology report from my blood test: - Ro-52: (+) - OJ: (-) - EJ: (-) - PL-12: (-) - PL-7: (++) - SRP: (-) - Jo-1: (-) - PM-Scl75: (-) - PM-Scl100: (-) - Ku: (-) - SAE1: (-) - NXP2: (-) - MDA5: (-) - TIF1...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Some of the results do not have reference values, as different hospitals may use different testing machines and reference values, making interpretation difficult. The other results that can be somewhat assessed are as follows: Anti-dsDNA 30.8 WH...[Read More] Understanding Your Immune Report: What Do the Results Mean?