Concerns About Cough and Possible STD: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Infection concerns? Hello, doctor. I've been coughing for over a month and was worried about the possibility of an HIV infection, so I went to the infectious disease department and had blood tests done twice, including testing for syphilis. The doctor only told me that I do ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Doxycycline is currently primarily used to treat two types of conditions: 1. It is one of the drug choices for syphilis. 2. It is used to treat certain atypical bacterial infections, such as Mycoplasma infections of the respiratory tract. Since you have some respiratory symptoms ...[Read More] Concerns About Cough and Possible STD: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Chronic Cough and Fever: Could It Indicate Liver Issues?
Persistent cough and fever? Hello, my mother has been coughing since the beginning of this year. In February, she had a fever and went to the hospital where she underwent X-rays, a CT scan, and a bronchoscopy. The X-ray only showed slight fluid accumulation below the ribs. Her sp...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, viral infections, bacterial infections, and medication factors can all affect liver function and lead to elevated liver enzyme levels. In a CT scan, the liver typically appears normal despite these three factors. If you are currently hospitalized...[Read More] Chronic Cough and Fever: Could It Indicate Liver Issues?
Does Skipping Morning Doses of Antibiotics Affect Their Effectiveness?
Antibiotic Consultation I was scratched by a cat, and the doctor prescribed me Norfloxacin, which is an antibiotic. I have only been taking it in the evenings with food for the past two days and haven't taken it in the mornings. Will this affect its effectiveness?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, what you are referring to is likely Norfloxacin enteric-coated tablets. This antibiotic is typically taken twice a day, so it is usually administered once in the morning and once in the evening. Your method of use should not affect its efficacy. Thank you for your question...[Read More] Does Skipping Morning Doses of Antibiotics Affect Their Effectiveness?
Understanding Elevated Urea Nitrogen Levels: Causes and Implications
Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels? Hello Doctor: I recently had a blood test, and my blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level was 21.2, creatinine was 0.9, with the BUN highlighted in red (two months ago, it was 18.4 and creatinine was 0.95). About a week ago, I underwent dental i...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
A hemoglobin A1c of 5.9 is consistent with a diagnosis of prediabetes, requiring regular follow-up every three months. Currently, kidney function is considered normal, but ongoing monitoring of future changes is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Urea Nitrogen Levels: Causes and Implications
Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes with Necrosis: Causes and Treatments
I would like to inquire about lymphadenopathy associated with necrosis? Hello Doctor: I have had a history of epilepsy since childhood, but it has been well controlled. At 36, I experienced ovarian decline, and by 37, I had completely gone through menopause. I have had a persiste...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here is my response: Question: Could this be Kikuchi disease? Is necrosis very serious? Is surgery necessary, or are there other more conservative treatment options? Response: Kikuchi disease requires a lymph node biopsy. Necrosis is merely ...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes with Necrosis: Causes and Treatments
Managing High White Blood Cell Count and Asthma: Dietary Guidelines
What foods can be consumed with elevated white blood cell count and moderate asthma? Hello, doctor. My family member went to the hospital today for a check-up and found that their white blood cell count is over 20,000. The doctor mentioned there are signs of inflammation. Due to ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
1. Regarding the elevated white blood cell count, it is likely not just inflammation but an indication of infection. Based on the symptoms, the most probable cause is a respiratory infection, and an X-ray may be needed to confirm the presence of pneumonia. Antibiotics or hospital...[Read More] Managing High White Blood Cell Count and Asthma: Dietary Guidelines
Understanding Sinus Issues and Antibiotic Use for Cough and Phlegm
Inquiry about cold medications? Hello Doctor, today I noticed that sometimes the phlegm I cough up in the morning is a bit yellow and sometimes has an unpleasant smell. I was worried about potential issues with my nasopharynx, so I visited an ENT specialist. The doctor examined m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Sinusitis does not always present with nasal congestion; some individuals may experience symptoms such as pain around the nostrils, fever, or purulent nasal discharge. 2. Amoxiclav and moxifloxacin are two completely different antibiotics. In clinical practice, they...[Read More] Understanding Sinus Issues and Antibiotic Use for Cough and Phlegm
Concerns About Medication: Amoxicillin Allergy Risks for Patients
Medication concerns Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about folliculitis in my nose that seems to have a bacterial infection with pus. I am allergic to Penicillin (causing eye swelling, ear swelling, and rashes), which I have informed the clinic physician. The doctor prescri...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, Penicillin and Amoxicillin are in the same class of medications, so if you are allergic to Amoxicillin, the likelihood of being allergic to Penicillin is also very high. It is not recommended to use it, and you may consider other types of antibiotics. Thank you for your in...[Read More] Concerns About Medication: Amoxicillin Allergy Risks for Patients
Understanding Hematospermia: Treatment Success and Ongoing Symptoms
The success of treatment for hematospermia (blood in semen) depends on the underlying cause. It is important to conduct a thorough evaluation, including a medical history, physical examination, and appropriate diagnostic tests? Hello Doctor, I discovered blood in my semen in mid-...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It is possible that the metabolites of hemoglobin may still appear reddish-brown, but the fecal occult blood test will be negative. 2. It is recommended to refrain from masturbation and observe the color of the urine; usually, bleeding should stop within 2-3 weeks. I...[Read More] Understanding Hematospermia: Treatment Success and Ongoing Symptoms
Understanding Prediabetes Diagnosis After Post-Meal Blood Sugar Test
Regarding the postprandial blood glucose test results in the United States indicating prediabetes? Hello Dr. Lee, I am approximately 169 cm tall and weighed 67.5 kg at the time of my examination on July 28. I have a history of ankylosing spondylitis (diagnosed in 2008) and am a ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c): A level of 5.8% is sufficient to diagnose prediabetes. HbA1c can be tested after meals, and a follow-up test can be conducted in three months.[Read More] Understanding Prediabetes Diagnosis After Post-Meal Blood Sugar Test
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling and Elevated LDH Levels: What to Know
Lymphadenopathy / Elevated LDH levels Hello Doctor, my friend recently developed a sudden swelling in the neck, approximately 1.5 cm in size. Initially, it was painful when pressed, and they immediately went to an ENT specialist who recommended transferring to a larger hospital. ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! The enlargement of cervical lymph nodes combined with elevated LDH levels does warrant caution regarding the possibility of hematological disorders or malignancies. However, the most accurate method of diagnosis is through biopsy followed by pathological examination. Typic...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling and Elevated LDH Levels: What to Know
Understanding Oral Candidiasis: Risks and Precautions During Pregnancy
Oral candidiasis Hello, doctor. I noticed some mold spots in the sink while rinsing my mouth tonight. If some of it splashed into my mouth and I only spit it out, then rinsed my mouth after a few minutes, is there a risk of developing a Candida infection? I read online that adult...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, there are many molds in the environment, including the presence of Candida. Most molds coexist peacefully with humans and do not cause infections. For example, Candida infections typically occur when the body's immune system is compromised, such as in cases of diabete...[Read More] Understanding Oral Candidiasis: Risks and Precautions During Pregnancy
Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Mild discomfort in the chest? Hello, doctor. About two days ago, I took anti-inflammatory medication and antibiotics at the clinic due to a cold. However, the next day, I started feeling a slight, vague pain in the middle of my chest, which is particularly noticeable around meal ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the esophagus is quite long, extending from the throat to the chest. Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or a gastric ulcer. However, the exact cause can only be determined through an endoscopy. As for ...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Can Autonomic Nervous System Disorders Cause Candidal Cheilitis?
Can autonomic nervous system dysfunction cause candidal cheilitis? I have visited the dermatology clinic three times and am currently taking antibiotics and applying Clobetasol (a corticosteroid). The doctor believes it is caused by a bacterial infection, but it has not improved ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Some ointments may appear white after being applied overnight, which does not necessarily indicate dead skin. 2. The use of antibiotics and corticosteroids can indeed lead to a decrease in local immunity, potentially resulting in a Candida albicans infection. However...[Read More] Can Autonomic Nervous System Disorders Cause Candidal Cheilitis?
Antibiotic Use and Fungal Infections: Responsibilities and Concerns
Medication Use / Fungal Infection Thank you, Dr. Lin, for your previous answers regarding my mother's medical care. I have two more questions: 1. If antibiotics can lead to the development of these bacteria, do doctors have a responsibility to limit the use of antibiotics to...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Antibiotics should only be used when necessary, and physicians must evaluate their necessity and potential side effects before administration. For the reasons behind the medical team's decision to use antibiotics, please discuss with the attending physician. 2. In some ...[Read More] Antibiotic Use and Fungal Infections: Responsibilities and Concerns
Understanding Albumin Use and Fungal Infections in Elderly Patients
Medication Use / Fungal Infection 1. Human albumin should be administered in situations such as significant hypoalbuminemia, severe burns, liver cirrhosis with ascites, or conditions requiring volume expansion in critically ill patients. 2. It is not typical for a patient to ha...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: 1. Common indications include limb edema or pulmonary edema caused by low albumin, or the use of albumin may also be considered in cases of hypotension. 2. It is quite common to culture many bacteria and fungi from urine and sputum after a patient has been hospitalized for...[Read More] Understanding Albumin Use and Fungal Infections in Elderly Patients
Understanding Throat Pain and Antibiotic Use: Is It Normal?
Antibiotics for sore throat? Four days ago, I visited a doctor due to a sore throat (in the center of my neck). The doctor prescribed throat lozenges, which provided some relief. Two days later, I saw a specialist who did not find any significant issues and prescribed a 5-day cou...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, it seems you have an upper respiratory infection. The symptoms you mentioned, such as sore throat and runny nose, are indeed indicative of a respiratory infection. Given the current pandemic, it is advisable to get tested to confirm whether it is COVID-...[Read More] Understanding Throat Pain and Antibiotic Use: Is It Normal?
Understanding Symptoms After Toenail Injury: Fever, Dizziness, and More
After injuring the toenail, a series of symptoms began, primarily persistent low-grade fever and dizziness? Hello, Doctor. At the beginning of last month, while on a business trip and staying at a hotel, I accidentally injured my right big toe by pinching it in the door. There wa...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! Generally, a nail injury is unlikely to cause a systemic infection (unless the local wound condition is very poor). Your initial symptoms resemble those of a systemic inflammatory response or infection, but typical infections do not usually last for a month. It would be ad...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms After Toenail Injury: Fever, Dizziness, and More
Understanding Tonsil Inflammation: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Questions about tonsil issues again? Thank you, Dr. Hong, for your previous response. I later visited an otolaryngologist, but the doctor said they didn't see any stones in the area I mentioned. The white appearance is likely due to inflammation, possibly from an injury I ca...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Inflamed tissue appears white due to relatively fewer blood vessels. 2. Due to inflammation, consuming irritating substances can indeed cause discomfort. 3. Typically, recovery takes about 5 to 7 days, but it depends on each individual's immune response. 4. With ...[Read More] Understanding Tonsil Inflammation: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Persistent Symptoms After Negative COVID-19 Tests: What to Do?
Negative rapid test for COVID-19 and normal test results, yet persistent illness? Hello Dr. Hong, First of all, I do not have any chronic illnesses, a travel history, or overlapping exposure to confirmed cases. I live in Taichung City, which is not a hot zone, and I was in good ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, I'm not sure if the two tests you received were rapid antigen tests (ELISA) or PCR tests. If they were antigen tests, there is indeed a high chance of false negatives, and you may need to consider getting an RT-PCR test for confirmation. If both tests were PCR, the ch...[Read More] Persistent Symptoms After Negative COVID-19 Tests: What to Do?