Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Cause Recurring Boils?
Will ankylosing spondylitis continuously cause boils? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis in April this year. After taking medication for half a month, I suddenly developed a boil in the groin area, which required surgical intervention. I took antibiotics fo...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe the relationship with medication is relatively low; it may be more related to ankylosing spondylitis or related rheumatic diseases. I suggest discussing this with your physician and paying attention to whether you have recurrent oral ...[Read More] Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Cause Recurring Boils?
Understanding Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Time
Tonsillitis Doctor, I recently tested positive for COVID-19, and about a week after recovering, I suddenly experienced pain on the left side of my throat. It feels like there is a foreign object when I swallow, and when I eat, it hurts. The doctor prescribed me antibiotics, somet...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If you have tonsillitis, please visit the otolaryngology clinic for further examination. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Time
Understanding Autoimmune Hepatitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Autoimmune hepatitis Hello Doctor: At the end of March this year, I sought consultation in the hepatobiliary and gastroenterology department due to fatigue, jaundice, and tea-colored urine. Blood tests showed AST 675, ALT 1077, and total bilirubin 4.6. Subsequent tests for HBsAg ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
It is highly recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible, preferably by returning to your original treating physician's clinic. If the appointments are fully booked, you should be able to request an additional slot with your original doctor. To determine the si...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Hepatitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Managing Mycoplasma Infection: Treatment Duration and Medication Guidance
Medication issues related to suspected Mycoplasma infections? Hello Dr. Liao, I started experiencing symptoms of a sore throat, itching, and coughing on March 19 while in mainland China. Due to potential exposure to a Mycoplasma infection, I sought medical attention after retur...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan: 1. The drug of choice for Mycoplasma pneumoniae is not erythromycin, but rather macrolide antibiotics. Alternative medications include fluoroquinolone antibiotics or tetracycline antibiotics. Gener...[Read More] Managing Mycoplasma Infection: Treatment Duration and Medication Guidance
Do Antibiotics and Anti-Inflammatories Affect Stable Stiffness Conditions?
Subject: Do antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications cause stable stiffness conditions to become unstable? Dear Dr. Gao, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, diagnosed three years ago. My condition has been stable, so I have temporarily stopped taking Celecoxib for s...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Will the aforementioned two medications cause stable stiffness to become unstable? --> I don't believe so. 2. If they do induce instability, are there alternative medications? --> If pain recurs, it may be r...[Read More] Do Antibiotics and Anti-Inflammatories Affect Stable Stiffness Conditions?
Understanding Chronic Pyelonephritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks
Chronic pyelonephritis Hello, Doctor: Three years ago, I had acute pyelonephritis (with high fever and severe pain) but did not get hospitalized for intravenous antibiotics; I only took the oral antibiotics prescribed by my doctor for 7 days. During that time, I had irregular fol...
Dr. Zhang Shixin Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen: 1. Chronic pyelonephritis is usually caused by recurrent acute infections. If a child has repeated urinary tract infections along with congenital issues (such as vesicoureteral reflux or renal hypoplasia), they are more likely to develop this condition. 2. A uri...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Pyelonephritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks
Hip and Thigh Muscle Pain: Understanding Post-Hospitalization Discomfort
Hip bone pain, soreness in the outer thigh muscles, and leg twitching when falling asleep? Last Sunday, I was hospitalized due to lower abdominal pain, which was diagnosed as mild appendicitis. I received antibiotic treatment through an IV, and after that, I no longer experienced...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If you are experiencing pain or cramping at night that interferes with your sleep, it is advisable to schedule an earlier follow-up appointment with your attending physician for evaluation. Some differential diagnoses require a physical examinat...[Read More] Hip and Thigh Muscle Pain: Understanding Post-Hospitalization Discomfort
Understanding Right Groin Lymphadenopathy: Causes and Next Steps
Right inguinal lymphadenopathy? Hello, doctor. For the past month, I have been experiencing a feeling of heaviness and discomfort in my groin and lower right abdomen, accompanied by lower back pain. I can feel small lymph nodes on the inner side of my right thigh. Three weeks ago...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
You can go for an outpatient evaluation and examination.[Read More] Understanding Right Groin Lymphadenopathy: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Systemic Pain and Allergic Reactions: When to See a Doctor
Generalized tingling, itching, and numbness? Hello Director Gao: I am following up on my inquiry from January 15 regarding my symptoms of generalized itching, tingling, itchy eyes, itchy ears, fungal patches, difficulty concentrating, memory decline, forgetfulness, headaches, che...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Brittle nails are often a result of nutritional deficiencies, and this can be evaluated by a dermatologist. If your primary care physician is unable to address your concerns, and you are also experiencing anxiety related to allergy symptoms, you...[Read More] Understanding Systemic Pain and Allergic Reactions: When to See a Doctor
Unexplained Hand Swelling: Seeking Answers for Persistent Symptoms
I would like to inquire about unexplained swelling on the back of the hand? Hello Doctor: I would like to inquire about my father (in his 60s). He previously went to the emergency room and was diagnosed with cellulitis. His symptoms included swelling and pain in his hand without ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If your hand is swollen and you are unable to exert strength, you can consult either an orthopedic specialist or a neurologist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Unexplained Hand Swelling: Seeking Answers for Persistent Symptoms
Unexplained Hand Swelling: Seeking Answers for Persistent Symptoms
I would like to inquire about unexplained swelling on the back of the hand? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about my father, who is in his 60s. He previously went to the emergency room and was diagnosed with cellulitis. His symptoms included swelling and pain in his hand ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If your hand is swollen and you are unable to exert strength, you can consult either an orthopedic specialist or a neurologist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Unexplained Hand Swelling: Seeking Answers for Persistent Symptoms
Understanding Elevated IgG4 Levels: Causes and Treatment Options
Elevated IgG4 levels? Hello, doctor. For over a year, I have been experiencing unexplained dull pain in my back, and rehabilitation has not shown significant improvement. I have undergone X-rays and tests related to ankylosing spondylitis, all of which returned normal results. Oc...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, the IgG4-related disease can cause lymphadenopathy and pancreatitis. It is generally not possible to diagnose solely based on IgG4 levels; lymph node or organ biopsies can provide further assistance in diagnosing the disease. It is recommended to consult a rheumatologist f...[Read More] Understanding Elevated IgG4 Levels: Causes and Treatment Options
Essential Health Tips for Dialysis Patients: Supplements and Care Guidance
Which department should I consult for diseases related to dialysis patients regarding dietary supplements? 1. Is it appropriate for dialysis patients to supplement with free lutein and sphingolipids? My mother is currently 67 years old. Last week, she was discharged from National...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
It is recommended that you take your elder to the outpatient clinic of the Department of Nephrology at National Taiwan University to discuss your concerns and any issues encountered with the original attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Essential Health Tips for Dialysis Patients: Supplements and Care Guidance
Understanding Recurrent Abscesses: Causes, Treatment, and Management
Recurrent abscess formation? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a few questions. I visited the infectious disease department on October 2nd due to an abscess and was prescribed antibiotics. Since then, the abscess has ruptured twice, but the area surrounding the abscess remai...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. It is likely pus that has not yet drained. 2. We need to assess the symptoms and the medication you are using to determine the next steps; I recommend coming in for an outpatient visit. 3. We need to see if the bacteria are resistant to the antibiotic or if surgical draina...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Abscesses: Causes, Treatment, and Management
Concerns About Superbug Infections in Home Environments
Concerns about superbug infections? Hello Dr. Lin, In my household, the elderly family members are accustomed to wearing outdoor shoes inside the house, except in the bedroom. Recently, an elderly family member returned home from the hospital and, unbeknownst to the family, wal...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
The term "superbugs" does not refer to bacteria that are particularly virulent, but rather to those that have multiple drug resistances. Therefore, if they cause a more severe infection, it can be difficult to treat in the absence of effective antibiotics, posing a sign...[Read More] Concerns About Superbug Infections in Home Environments
Do Antibiotics Affect Blood Test Results for Arthritis?
Does taking antibiotics affect blood test results? Hello, Doctor Gao. I am the questioner with ID 201193. I would like to ask if taking Cephalon capsules (antibiotic), Decan tablets (antihistamine for itching), Acemet capsules (anti-inflammatory pain relief), and Solaxin will aff...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. It will not have any impact. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is here to support you.[Read More] Do Antibiotics Affect Blood Test Results for Arthritis?
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
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
Understanding Cellulitis: Managing Pain and Mobility Issues
Unable to walk after contracting cellulitis? Three days ago, I was diagnosed with an infection in my left leg. I have been taking my medication regularly, but I have been experiencing fever almost continuously after taking the medication. Additionally, standing up causes unbearab...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, if you are still experiencing a fever three days after starting antibiotics, it usually indicates that the cellulitis has not been adequately controlled. It is advisable to return for a follow-up or consult an infectious disease specialist for evaluation. If the fever has ...[Read More] Understanding Cellulitis: Managing Pain and Mobility Issues
Understanding Drug-Resistant Bacteria: Key Questions and Concerns
Further inquiries regarding antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the human body (continuation of question number 199206)? Thank you for your previous response, Doctor. I have some additional questions I would like to understand: 1. If the test results continue to be positive accordin...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Yes. The human body naturally hosts many bacteria that coexist with it; antibiotic-resistant bacteria are simply more resistant to antibiotics, but otherwise, they are not significantly different from regular bacteria. 2. It may be worth considering the use of probiotics to se...[Read More] Understanding Drug-Resistant Bacteria: Key Questions and Concerns