Post-Surgery Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Eat After Kidney Removal
Gastrointestinal issues Hello doctor, my uncle just had surgery on January 18th (a kidney tumor was removed, and one kidney was taken out). He is currently experiencing vomiting symptoms (suspected bile vomiting) and abdominal pain. These symptoms have persisted for three days no...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: There are many possible causes for abdominal pain and vomiting, and based on the information provided, I cannot offer specific advice. Theoretically, it has been more than a week since your uncle's surgery, so his discomfort may not necessarily be related to the opera...[Read More] Post-Surgery Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Eat After Kidney Removal
Understanding Cough and Left Back Pain in Mitral Valve Prolapse Patients
Cold and cough. Soreness in the left back? I have a problem with mitral valve prolapse, and I am taking medication for palpitations and to prevent heart failure. I tend to be more sensitive and anxious, and sometimes my family says I make a big deal out of small issues. However, ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Regarding your back pain, it is likely caused by a muscle strain. If you haven't experienced any recent injuries, it may be due to poor posture or muscle strain from excessive coughing. Typically, applying heat or using a topical analgesic can help alleviate the ...[Read More] Understanding Cough and Left Back Pain in Mitral Valve Prolapse Patients
Assessing Long-Term Risks of Biologics vs. Traditional Treatments
Biologics (Follow-up Question) Dear Dr. Gao, Below the asterisks is the question I raised on January 17. I appreciate your detailed response, and I would like to ask a few more questions: 1) I want to focus on the long-term severe (or life-threatening) side effects. The long-te...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here is my consolidated response: 1) I would like to focus on the long-term severe (or fatal) side effects. The long-term severe (or fatal) side effects of Celebrex (celecoxib) include cardiovascular, renal, and gastrointestinal issues. The lon...[Read More] Assessing Long-Term Risks of Biologics vs. Traditional Treatments
Understanding Sudden Decline in Kidney Function: Causes and Solutions
What could cause a sudden decline in kidney function? In mid-December last year, my health check revealed a blood urea nitrogen level of 13, creatinine level of 1.7, uric acid level of 6.9, pH of 6, urine protein negative, specific gravity of 1.030, and blood pressure of 126/71. ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. The presence or absence of proteinuria is determined by testing, and your urine protein result is negative (-). If you are still concerned, you can ask your physician to check the urine protein to creatinine ratio next time. 2. In mid-December, your creatinine level was 1.7, ...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Decline in Kidney Function: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns After Straining
Rectal bleeding Two days ago, I had difficulty eating due to a tooth extraction, which made it hard for me to have a bowel movement. I spent an hour in the bathroom and eventually managed to pass a stool, but I had to strain a lot, and since the stool was quite large, I experienc...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Based on what you described, it does sound like internal hemorrhoid bleeding. Internal hemorrhoids are typically painless, and fresh blood may cover the surface of the stool, while the stool itself remains normal in color. If you have a history of hemorrhoids, it is advisa...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns After Straining
Understanding HIV Anxiety: Risks and Testing Concerns Explained
HIV infection Doctor, I sincerely apologize for bothering you. However, I feel like I have been experiencing quite severe anxiety related to the fear of intimacy. Over three months ago, I was splashed by toilet water in a public restroom, and later, I purchased a rapid HIV test k...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, HIV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and needle sharing. The situations you mentioned are not recognized transmission routes for HIV, and there have been no reported cases of HIV infection due to the scenarios you hypothesized. Please do not worry, and thank...[Read More] Understanding HIV Anxiety: Risks and Testing Concerns Explained
Impact of Contrast Agents on Chronic Kidney Disease: What You Need to Know
Contrast agent issues in kidney disease? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing issues with my eyes recently, and the ophthalmologist recommended administering a contrast agent to visualize the retinal blood vessels. However, I read online that contrast agents can harm the kidney...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on your inquiry, a creatinine level of 6 indicates stage 5 chronic kidney disease. Even if only half the dose of contrast agent is administered, it may still affect kidney function. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your physician. Thank you for your qu...[Read More] Impact of Contrast Agents on Chronic Kidney Disease: What You Need to Know
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Possible Immune System Disorders
Health Examination Report Hello doctor, last month I visited a rheumatology and immunology specialist due to an unexplained rash on my skin (similar to petechiae). Initially, the doctor suspected it might be an allergy, but they still conducted blood tests. The results showed abn...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Among the antibodies you tested, some are related to Sjögren's syndrome (Ro/La, C3/C4), some are associated with myositis (Jo-1, Ku), and others are more related to lupus erythematosus (ANA, C3/C4). However, we will consider clinical sympto...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Possible Immune System Disorders
Managing Anemia in Chronic Kidney Disease: Impact on Eye Health
Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease Hello Doctor: I have severe chronic kidney disease and have not yet started dialysis. I also have anemia; previously, I received erythropoietin injections every two weeks, but for the past two months, I have been receiving them weekly. Recently, d...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on your description, it seems you have stage 5 chronic kidney disease complicated by anemia, which is why your physician prescribed erythropoietin (a blood-boosting injection) to help stimulate your own red blood cell production. This erythropoietin injection is intended to...[Read More] Managing Anemia in Chronic Kidney Disease: Impact on Eye Health
Is Daily Use of Celecoxib Effective for Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Is this considered an effective treatment? My son is currently 18 years old and started showing symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis two years ago, with a diagnosis made one year ago. I have the following questions: 1) For the past six months, my son has been taking two capsules ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here is my response summarized as follows: 1) My son has been taking 2 capsules of Celecoxib (200 mg) daily for the past six months, which has kept his CRP around 0.3 mg/dL and ESR around 12, and he has not experienced any pain (previously he ...[Read More] Is Daily Use of Celecoxib Effective for Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Should We Change Medications for Ankylosing Spondylitis Management?
Should the medication be changed? Hello Doctor: My child (born June 2003, currently 18 years and 6 months old) developed ankylosing spondylitis in June 2019 (symptoms only included sacroiliac joint pain, with no morning stiffness). However, he was only diagnosed with ankylosing s...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
1. At that time, the patient was unable to stabilize their condition with the current medication, so it may be worth trying the new medication recently; if it proves ineffective, we can switch back. 2. It may be worth trying the new medication recently; if it proves ineffective, ...[Read More] Should We Change Medications for Ankylosing Spondylitis Management?
Managing Rheumatic Pain During Labor: Natural vs. Cesarean Delivery
Please consult the physician again? Hello, doctor. I apologize for the confusion in my previous message. The pain I mentioned refers to the recurrent pain caused by rheumatism, such as swelling and pain in the knee joints, thigh joints, and arms. The pain persists even at rest an...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, the previous response still applies to your current question. Even if joint pain worsens as you approach delivery, there are medications available to help manage the symptoms, which you can discuss with your rheumatologist. If you experience joint pain during labor, you ca...[Read More] Managing Rheumatic Pain During Labor: Natural vs. Cesarean Delivery
Managing Chronic Health Issues Before Military Service: A Guide
Pre-enlistment Consultation Hello, doctor. I have been seeing various doctors since middle school. My symptoms include pain around the joints at night, sometimes accompanied by redness and swelling, headaches, dizziness, and low-grade fevers (around 37 to 37.9 degrees Celsius, wh...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I recommend discussing your situation with your attending physician to assess whether you meet the criteria for a change in position. If you do, please ask them to issue a medical certificate, which you can then use to apply for a military re-ex...[Read More] Managing Chronic Health Issues Before Military Service: A Guide
Understanding Anal Fissures and Surrounding Skin Tags
Perianal granulation tissue associated with anal fissure? Doctor, I've been experiencing anal fissures for the past couple of days. Could this be the reason for some itching? Additionally, there are some small white growths around the affected area; is this normal? (See phot...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Yes, issues related to the anus may cause mild pain, especially in the case of hemorrhoids or when there are wounds. The sensation we experience is often described as itching. After cleaning the area, applying a thin layer of lotion or ointment should suffice. 2. If you stil...[Read More] Understanding Anal Fissures and Surrounding Skin Tags
Can Oral Sex Without Protection Transmit HIV? Understanding the Risks
Transmission routes of HIV/AIDS? Hello doctor, may I ask if receiving oral sex without a condom can transmit HIV? Thank you!
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the information from the Centers for Disease Control, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in sexual activities such as oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individua...[Read More] Can Oral Sex Without Protection Transmit HIV? Understanding the Risks
Managing Childbirth Challenges in Women with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Issues related to childbirth in women with ankylosing spondylitis? Hello, Doctor. I started experiencing severe joint swelling and pain around the age of 13, and now at 31, the locations and timing of the pain have changed with age. I only began seeking medical attention in adult...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Due to the frequent pain during flare-ups, which can make movement difficult, is it possible to have a smooth delivery if the condition flares up during natural childbirth? --> In principle, flare-ups of ankylosin...[Read More] Managing Childbirth Challenges in Women with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Understanding Shingles in Lupus Patients: What to Expect
Patients with lupus develop shingles? Hello, I would like to ask if a family member has lupus erythematosus and recently developed shingles. After visiting the clinic and starting medication, they noticed that the rash has been spreading more over the past two days. Is this a nor...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Patients with conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus, which compromise the immune system, are indeed more susceptible to developing shingles. Even with pharmacological treatment, shingles can progress through various stages, including an increase in the number of lesions, d...[Read More] Understanding Shingles in Lupus Patients: What to Expect
Understanding ANA Levels: Key Insights for Autoimmune Concerns
Autoimmunity Hello Doctor, I went to see a dermatologist for hair loss and had a blood test, which showed an ANA value of 80, negative. The doctor told me to see a rheumatologist if I experience joint pain or related issues. I would like to ask: 1. Are there any methods to preven...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. Is there any way to prevent ANA levels from rising? --> A positive ANA is part of an individual's constitution and generally does not change significantly. However, slight variations may occur due to differen...[Read More] Understanding ANA Levels: Key Insights for Autoimmune Concerns
Understanding Gout: Duration, Symptoms, and Treatment Insights
Please ask some questions about gout? Hello, Doctor. My mother suddenly has difficulty walking on her right leg, and her right knee is very swollen, hot, and painful, although there are no visible signs of redness. After being hospitalized, it was found that there were bacteria i...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses to your inquiries: 1. Can gout symptoms last this long? I found online that gout usually comes and goes quickly, but my mother's symptoms have persisted for over a month. --> In terms of gout, this duration is ind...[Read More] Understanding Gout: Duration, Symptoms, and Treatment Insights
Can STDs Be Transmitted Through Small Wounds? Understanding the Risks
The possibility of sexually transmitted infections being transmitted through wounds? Hello, doctor. A few days ago, I asked a question: During a high school experiment, I used a clean, newly opened lancet to prick my finger, resulting in a small wound that bled a few drops. If th...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
A. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is transmitted through contact with blood or bodily fluids (semen, vaginal secretions, breast milk) that come into contact with mucous membranes or open skin wounds. ...[Read More] Can STDs Be Transmitted Through Small Wounds? Understanding the Risks