Understanding HIV Risks After Safe Sex Practices: Your Questions Answered
Regarding HIV infection issues? Hello doctor, I would like to ask a question. I have engaged in sexual activity with men, and I made sure to inquire about their status beforehand. They have all been tested and found to be negative, and their sexual partners have also been screene...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: <Should I still question whether they are carriers?> A: You can refer to the information from the Centers for Disease Control: www.cdc.gov.tw I. There are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engag...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks After Safe Sex Practices: Your Questions Answered
Understanding Hypothyroidism: Should You Take Medication or Seek Further Testing?
Hypothyroidism issues? Hello Doctor, I am currently undergoing infertility treatment, so I need to check if there are any issues with my thyroid. Hospital A tested and found that I have hypothyroidism, with a TSH level of 7.026 (the standard range is 0.35-5.5). They prescribed EL...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Xiao Gua: 1. Personally, I am unsure how to answer your question. 2. I can only tell you that, according to general medical principles, hypothyroidism is characterized by decreased levels of T3 (triiodothyronine), decreased levels of T4 (thyroxine), and increased lev...[Read More] Understanding Hypothyroidism: Should You Take Medication or Seek Further Testing?
Understanding HIV Testing: Risks of Infection After Mixed Test Results
If the other person tested positive for HIV on their first test but did not have a second test, is there a risk of transmission to me? I was a woman, and a few days ago I had an encounter with a man. Later, during our conversation, he mentioned that he tested positive for HIV dur...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the previous case of testing positive for HIV during military service, the response is as follows: 1. HIV testing is conducted in two stages: first is the ELISA test, and second is the Western blot test. 2. The former is a screening method that measures...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Risks of Infection After Mixed Test Results
Understanding Persistent Fever and Cough: Possible HIV Concerns
I have been experiencing intermittent fever for a month? 1. What is the likelihood of contracting HIV in this situation? 2. Do these symptoms resemble those of HIV? I have been monitoring my lymph nodes and oral health, and everything appears normal, except for throat pain caused...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding 1. What is the likelihood of contracting HIV in this situation? A: According to the CDC-Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse with an HIV-infected individual or exch...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Fever and Cough: Possible HIV Concerns
Can I Trust My Test Results? Understanding Persistent Symptoms and Diagnosis
Can it be confirmed or not? Doctor, I am from Tainan. On October 7th, I was at high risk. On October 14th, I experienced abdominal pain and diarrhea. On October 18th, I went to a testing facility for an RTPCR test (negative), and the P24 test was also (negative). On November 2nd,...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. A-Kai: 1. HIV RT-PCR is primarily used in the early stages of HIV infection, approximately around 7 days post-exposure. If infection has occurred, the viral load is very low, so PCR is utilized in the laboratory to amplify the viral quantity, allowing for the detection ...[Read More] Can I Trust My Test Results? Understanding Persistent Symptoms and Diagnosis
Managing High Uric Acid and Cholesterol Levels: Dietary Tips and Concerns
Health check shows elevated uric acid and cholesterol levels? Hello Doctor: I recently had a health check, and my uric acid level is 7.1, which is above the normal range. Isn't the normal value for women supposed to be less than 6.6? I currently do not have any symptoms of g...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Kiki: 1. Elevated uric acid levels primarily refer to high concentrations of uric acid in the blood. When uric acid precipitates in joint tissues (such as the big toe joint, the back of the foot, or finger joints), it can trigger an inflammatory response, leading to go...[Read More] Managing High Uric Acid and Cholesterol Levels: Dietary Tips and Concerns
Managing High Uric Acid and Cholesterol Levels: Dietary Tips and Concerns
Health check shows elevated uric acid and cholesterol levels? Hello Doctor: I recently had a health check-up, and my uric acid level is 7.1, which is above the normal range. Isn't the normal value for women supposed to be less than 6.6? I currently do not have any symptoms o...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. KiKi: 1. Elevated uric acid levels primarily refer to high concentrations of uric acid in the blood. If uric acid precipitates in joint tissues (such as the big toe joint, the back of the foot, or finger joints), it can trigger an inflammatory response, leading to gout....[Read More] Managing High Uric Acid and Cholesterol Levels: Dietary Tips and Concerns
Understanding Sacroiliitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management Options
Sacroiliitis Hello Dr. Tseng, I have been experiencing symptoms for about three to four years now. I have loved playing basketball since elementary school, and I still do. I had grade II vesicoureteral reflux around the fourth grade, so I thought my lower back pain was due to spo...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
There are many reasons for back pain. A CT scan shows sacroiliitis and elevated inflammatory markers, so it is recommended to consult a rheumatologist for differential diagnosis. The physician should provide further recommendations. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Sacroiliitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management Options
Seeking Medical Help for Unexplained Weight Gain at 40
Abnormal weight gain Hello: I am 40 years old, 170 cm tall, and currently eat one meal a day while walking 10,000 steps. My lifestyle is regular. I have gained 12 kg in the past six months, and my endocrine blood tests have shown no issues. How should I seek medical assistance?
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Aqi: 1. Factors contributing to weight gain include diet, patterns of physical activity, and differences in energy metabolism; very few cases are due to single-gene mutations or specific genetic disorders. 2. Familial obesity may be influenced not only by genetic facto...[Read More] Seeking Medical Help for Unexplained Weight Gain at 40
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels in Gestational Diabetes Management
Blood sugar issues? Hello Dr. Hsieh, I am currently 36 years old and have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes. My first question is: should I check my blood sugar one hour or two hours after eating for more indicative results? Second, my blood sugar level was 155 mg/dL two h...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: The diagnosis of gestational diabetes should be accompanied by education in obstetric clinics, emphasizing early dietary control. Blood glucose levels can be measured 2 hours after meals. In more severe cases, it is advisable to monitor blood glucose levels four times a da...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels in Gestational Diabetes Management
Can You Get Parasitic Infections from Handling Water Plants?
Parasitic infection issues? Due to the need for fish farming, I manually pulled aquatic plants from a field ditch. After pulling them out, I washed my hands, and once they were dry, I ate some mint candy. Later, I discovered some worms in the aquarium that seem to be schistosomes...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding <Parasites...> the response is as follows: A: You can refer to the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov.tw/diseaseinfo.aspx? 1. Overview of Common Intestinal Parasitic Diseases: Intestinal parasitic diseases are prevalent in tropical and subtropical ...[Read More] Can You Get Parasitic Infections from Handling Water Plants?
Understanding HIV Window Period in the Context of Hepatitis C Exposure
Please inquire about the HIV window period issue? Hello Dr. Liao, I would like to ask you the following questions: 1. In the context of having hepatitis C, if I have been exposed to a potential risk of HIV infection due to three factors: needlestick injury, skin break with blee...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question of whether there is a premise of hepatitis C, the response is as follows: I. Referencing the information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website http://www.cdc.gov.tw/professional/info.aspx? (1) Hepatitis C occurs globally. In th...[Read More] Understanding HIV Window Period in the Context of Hepatitis C Exposure
Lower Back Pain After Flu Vaccine: Is It a Side Effect?
Experiencing lower back pain after receiving the flu vaccine? Hello doctor, I received the flu vaccine on Friday afternoon, and since then my lower back has been very sore. Is this a side effect of the vaccine? I need to take care of my child, and especially after sitting in the ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question "<Is back pain after receiving the flu vaccine a side effect of the vaccine?>", here is the response: I. Please refer to the CDC's Q&A: http://www.cdc.gov.tw/qa.aspx? Q1: Is the flu vaccine safe? What side effects m...[Read More] Lower Back Pain After Flu Vaccine: Is It a Side Effect?
Understanding Abnormal Urine and Blood Test Results: A Guide for Patients
Blood test issues Hello, Dr. Gao. During a urine test at an external laboratory, my kidney function test showed an abnormal urine protein-to-creatinine ratio of 30-300 (normal value is <30). In a blood test, one of the serum immunology tests, ANA (antinuclear antibody), showed...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. An ANA test result of 1:80 (+) is within the normal range. You only need to have the test results evaluated by a physician. The physician will determine whether further action is necessary based on any related symptoms you may have. The Allergy,...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urine and Blood Test Results: A Guide for Patients
Managing Post-Surgery Bloating and Abdominal Discomfort: Tips and Solutions
Frequent abdominal bloating and discomfort? Hello, Doctor! I have undergone surgery three times in a short span of seven months due to intestinal adhesions causing bowel obstruction, with the last two surgeries involving the placement of anti-adhesion products. The third surgery ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, intestinal adhesions are indeed a very challenging issue in clinical practice. Unless there is a life-threatening situation that requires surgery, treatment can only focus on symptom management, which includes exercise, taking anti-flatulence medications, and avoiding cert...[Read More] Managing Post-Surgery Bloating and Abdominal Discomfort: Tips and Solutions
Understanding Unexplained Body Sensations: Which Specialist to Consult?
Health issues. Which department should I consult? Hello Dr. Hong, I would like to consult about some unusual symptoms I'm experiencing and which specialty I should see to determine what illness I might have. My symptoms include experiencing internal pulsations after a night...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, there are two possible causes for the palpitations. First, there may be a temporary episode of tachycardia. Since you mentioned that you have previously undergone an exercise electrocardiogram that showed tachycardia, I recommend a 24-hour Holter...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Body Sensations: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding Kidney Issues: Insights on Recovery and Dietary Considerations
Kidney problems Hello, my sister is 29 years old and has a history of refractory epilepsy for 23 years, is a carrier of hepatitis B, and has been diagnosed with schizophrenia for 2 years. She was hospitalized on July 31 due to cellulitis and developed sepsis, requiring intubation...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on the data you provided, this condition is classified as "acute kidney injury," which may be caused by cellulitis complicated by sepsis. The key point is that as the infection is brought under control, your kidney function will gradually improve. It is recommende...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: Insights on Recovery and Dietary Considerations
Effective Weight Loss Strategies: Overcoming Common Challenges
Struggling to lose weight? Hello, Doctor: My height is 161.5 cm, weight is 70 kg, and my BMI is 26.83. I have read several weight loss books, and the doctor has mentioned to eat less and exercise more, but when I exercise more, I tend to eat more! Just relying on the phrase "...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Your height is 161.5 cm, weight is 70 kg, and your BMI is 26.83 kg/m², which classifies you as overweight. In medicine, there are various weight loss methods; however, there is no single method that is universally effective for everyone. Since obesity can lead to insulin resis...[Read More] Effective Weight Loss Strategies: Overcoming Common Challenges
Do You Need Steroids for Vasculitis in Sjögren's Syndrome?
Is steroid medication necessary for vasculitis? Two years ago, I experienced difficulty opening my left eye upon waking, and I was diagnosed with dry eye syndrome. Last year, after a salivary gland biopsy, I was diagnosed with xerostomia, and my white blood cell count dropped to ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, everyone. 1. The diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome primarily involves testing for positive anti-SSA or anti-SSB antibodies, which are present in only 50-60% of patients. If these tests are negative, a salivary gland biopsy is performed for diagnosis. If the dry syndro...[Read More] Do You Need Steroids for Vasculitis in Sjögren's Syndrome?
Understanding Kidney Issues: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients and Families
Kidney problems Hello Doctor, My family member (female, 29 years old) has long-term chronic health issues. She has been diagnosed with refractory epilepsy for 23 years and is currently taking the following medications: Depakote 700mg, Vimpat 100mg, Keppra 1000mg, and Lamictal 30...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Hello: Currently, your family member's creatinine levels have returned to normal range. The recent decline in kidney function is likely due to acute kidney injury, but regular monitoring is still necessary. Dietary restrictions are not required at this time. The exact causes...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients and Families