Understanding Painful Swelling Near the Liver: Causes and Solutions
A swollen mass or lesion near the hepatic portal area? There is a swollen lump outside the liver area that feels the size of a pimple. It causes sharp pain when touched, and sitting on a chair or getting up also triggers the pain. However, standing or sitting for a long time does...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
You are likely referring to an anal gland rather than a hepatic issue. This enlargement is likely caused by a blockage of the sebaceous glands near the anal opening. If it continues to grow, it is advisable to seek treatment at a surgical clinic.[Read More] Understanding Painful Swelling Near the Liver: Causes and Solutions
Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns
Chronic urticaria Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if chronic urticaria can only be managed with medication. I have been taking antihistamines for over two months, and during that time, I felt fine without itching, although sometimes my skin would be a bit red. A few years ago,...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The result of the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is acceptable; although it is marked as positive, the value is still within an acceptable range according to rheumatology standards, so there is no need to worry too much. Regarding chronic urti...[Read More] Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns
Managing Chronic Post-Nasal Drip with Fever and Neck Swelling: When to Seek Emergency Care
Long-term post-nasal drip has recently worsened, presenting symptoms such as fever, neck swelling, and pharyngeal pain? I suspect I have an infection in my nose, which is causing post-nasal drip and resulting in coughing. This symptom has persisted for about six months (since Apr...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to visit the ENT department of a major hospital today (10/9) to confirm what the neck mass is. It is most likely lymphadenopathy, which is just an inflammatory response, possibly caused by a new wave of tonsillitis starting from 10/6. This is separate fro...[Read More] Managing Chronic Post-Nasal Drip with Fever and Neck Swelling: When to Seek Emergency Care
Understanding High Insulin Resistance and Blood Insulin Levels: A Guide
High blood insulin levels and high insulin resistance? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my recent self-paid blood tests. My insulin resistance index is 7.1 (normal range: 1.4-2.0), and my blood insulin concentration is 28.65 uU/mL (normal range: 2.6-24.9), which is higher...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello, a fasting blood glucose level of 100 mg/dL is classified as impaired fasting glucose (IFG), which is a form of prediabetes. The diagnosis of prediabetes does not rely on the insulin resistance index or blood insulin levels. There are many reasons for a high insulin resista...[Read More] Understanding High Insulin Resistance and Blood Insulin Levels: A Guide
Understanding Immune System Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Immune system issues Hello, Doctor Gao. I have a few questions to ask you, and I appreciate your help. 1. At the beginning of August, I developed a urinary tract infection and took antibiotics for two weeks. The symptoms disappeared, and I thought I was cured, so I didn't ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe there is a high possibility of reactive arthritis, especially considering your age and the occurrence of acute prostatitis along with unexplained joint effusion and swelling. I recommend that you consult a rheumatologist nearby. The Al...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Eye Exposure to Infected Fluids?
Transmission routes of HIV (ocular) Is it possible to get HIV infection if HIV-infected bodily fluids come into contact with the eyes?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-...[Read More] Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Eye Exposure to Infected Fluids?
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter
What is the likelihood of contracting the HIV virus? Hello Doctor: - I had contact with a sex worker on August 16: unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse. - About 3 to 4 days after the incident, I felt a slight tingling sensation on the glans and noticed white or...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-in...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter
Managing Ascites: Navigating Kidney and Liver Issues in Advanced Disease
It is unclear whether the ascites is caused by kidney issues or liver problems. How can this be addressed? I have hepatitis B, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Targeted therapy was interrupted due to side effects, and the hospital suddenly informed us that I am now in the late stage ...
Dr. Yan Qitai Reply:
Considering your condition, it is recommended to continue follow-up visits and treatment with the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department as well as the Nephrology Department. The physician will provide appropriate medical advice based on your condition during each visit. Depa...[Read More] Managing Ascites: Navigating Kidney and Liver Issues in Advanced Disease
Exploring Additional Tests for Persistent Low Hemoglobin in Diabetic Patients
Are there any other recommended tests to be done? Hello, my grandfather is a diabetes patient and was previously diagnosed with rectal cancer. Over the past two years, his regular diabetes monitoring tests have shown that his hemoglobin (Hb) levels have consistently been low (aro...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I recommend arranging a hematology outpatient appointment for the elderly gentleman to discuss with the physician the management of iron supplementation that has not been effective. Autoimmunity, bone marrow hematopoietic function, and tumors ma...[Read More] Exploring Additional Tests for Persistent Low Hemoglobin in Diabetic Patients
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello, doctor. I am 42 years old and have been experiencing occasional dull pain in my sacroiliac joint for the past six months. I have seen both orthopedic and rehabilitation specialists without any improvement. One day, I woke up at 4 AM due ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Am I certain that I have ankylosing spondylitis? --> Currently, the diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis requires not only blood tests but also clinical symptoms. The absence of nighttime back pain is somewhat unusu...[Read More] Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?
Autoimmune diseases Hello, Director Gao. I would like to ask you a question. Previously, I experienced full-body itching and developed hives whenever I returned home. After seeing a doctor, I took antihistamines for over a month, and now I no longer itch, but I still occasionally...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. An ANA titer of 1:80 is considered low, and if there are no symptoms, we usually recommend monitoring. 2. In cases of chronic urticaria, we sometimes test for syphilis, as untreated syphilis infection can lead to prolo...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?
Understanding Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Blood Tests and Symptoms Explained
Rheumatoid-related inquiries? Hello, Dr. Gao. I previously asked you about rheumatoid-related issues (pain in both wrists) on September 11. The blood test results are out, and I also had an X-ray of my hands. The rheumatologist said there were no issues. I would like to ask you a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: Question 1: In the case of early rheumatoid arthritis, is it possible for blood test results to be normal and X-rays to show no signs? --> Yes, that can happen. Question 2: What does the quantitative result in the b...[Read More] Understanding Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Blood Tests and Symptoms Explained
Managing Autoimmune Disorders: Medication Concerns and Heart Health
Medication issues I would like to ask about my situation. After abnormal ANA antibody results from a blood test, I underwent several examinations. Initially, I tested positive for Sjögren's syndrome antibodies, and recently, due to severe Raynaud's phenomenon, I also te...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe that Puda tablets are quite safe medications. Although there is a very small chance of cardiac side effects, they should not affect heart rhythm. If it is just early contractions, I think it is not a concern. However, if there are ind...[Read More] Managing Autoimmune Disorders: Medication Concerns and Heart Health
Should My Son Continue Taking Fish Oil for Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Can I continue taking fish oil? Hello Dr. Tseng, my son is 21 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for nearly four years. Initially, he was only taking Celebrex (he tried Voltaren but it was ineffective). Over the past year, he has added two capsules of Sa...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The normal range for platelet count is approximately 150,000 to 400,000. Your son's platelet count of 210,000 to 290,000 is actually within the normal range, so there is no need to worry. 1) In healthy individuals who are not taking antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications,...[Read More] Should My Son Continue Taking Fish Oil for Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding the Transition from Hyperthyroidism to Hypothyroidism
Hyperthyroidism to hypothyroidism? Hello Doctor, in April I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism with T4: 5.1 and TSH: <0.005. After medication, my levels dropped to low in late May. The doctor advised me to stop the medication for three to five days and then continue with a red...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to visit the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism at a major hospital for diagnosis and treatment. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding the Transition from Hyperthyroidism to Hypothyroidism
Understanding Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Next Steps
Suspected ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, I am 28 years old. Initially, six months ago, after a full-body adjustment, I started experiencing stiffness and pain in my back upon waking up, particularly in the upper back (with no issues in the lower back). After stretching in...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Do I have ankylosing spondylitis? --> It would be helpful to check for HLA-B27. Your symptoms have persisted for a while, and chronic lower back pain in young individuals warrants caution regarding ankylosing spondy...[Read More] Understanding Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Next Steps
Can You Contract HIV from a Needle Stick Injury on a Motorcycle Seat?
Transmission routes of HIV (needle stick) If I was injured by a needle on the seat of a motorcycle while moving it in the morning, and if that needle had HIV-infected blood on it, would I be at risk of contracting HIV from the injury? Why or why not?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) data: 1. There are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any other exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected...[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from a Needle Stick Injury on a Motorcycle Seat?
Should I Continue Taking Celebrex After 25 Days with No Improvement?
I have been taking Silhouette for 25 days with no results. Should I continue taking Silhouette? Hello Dr. Gao, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I am currently undergoing treatment with 2 tablets of Celebrex daily, and my inflammation markers are within the normal range...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I recommend that you take the medication for a full 28 days. If you still do not see any improvement, please consult your physician for a medication adjustment. This approach not only allows for a longer evaluation period of the anti-inflammato...[Read More] Should I Continue Taking Celebrex After 25 Days with No Improvement?
Should My Son Continue Taking Fish Oil with His Condition?
In this situation, is it safe to continue taking fish oil? Hello Dr. Gao, my son is 21 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for nearly 4 years. Initially, he was only taking Celebrex (he tried Voltaren but it was ineffective). Over the past year, he has ad...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) After taking fish oil for one month, my son's platelet count (PLT) is 225 (previously fluctuating between 210 and 250 without fish oil). Should I be concerned that continuing fish oil could lead to internal bleedi...[Read More] Should My Son Continue Taking Fish Oil with His Condition?
Can Scratched Groin Skin Lead to HIV Infection After Safe Sex?
Is there a risk of HIV infection from a scratched area in the groin? Recently, I had sexual relations with a sex worker. About 1-2 months later, I noticed that my groin area had been scratched and was red, with some broken skin, but there was no significant bleeding. I used a con...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, 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 o...[Read More] Can Scratched Groin Skin Lead to HIV Infection After Safe Sex?