Managing Antibiotic Treatment for Elderly Patients with Multiple Health Issues
Antibiotics Hello Dr. Tsai: My grandfather had a lot of bacteria in his sputum and urine cultures during his hospitalization. He was treated with third-generation antibiotics and also received steroids. Within a week of discharge, he developed a fever again. Is it effective to us...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
The physician must assess the clinical symptoms and, in conjunction with the results of bacterial cultures, determine which antibiotic to use based on the clinical presentation and the culture results.[Read More] Managing Antibiotic Treatment for Elderly Patients with Multiple Health Issues
Understanding Chronic Duodenal Ulcers and Associated Chest Discomfort
Gastric disease, chest tightness, and shortness of breath? Last month, I went to Mackay Memorial Hospital for an endoscopy, and it was diagnosed that I have a chronic duodenal ulcer and Helicobacter pylori infection. The doctor prescribed antibiotics for me to take for a week to ...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Simultaneously seeing a gastroenterologist and a pulmonologist.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Duodenal Ulcers and Associated Chest Discomfort
Understanding Chronic Duodenal Ulcers and Chest Discomfort: What to Do?
Gastric disease. Chest tightness. Shortness of breath? Last month, I went to Mackay Memorial Hospital for an endoscopy, and it was diagnosed that I have a chronic duodenal ulcer and Helicobacter pylori infection. The doctor prescribed antibiotics for me to take for one week to er...
Dr. Sun Yizhen Reply:
Hello: Since you have already undergone an initial gastroscopy and the physician has prescribed medication for you, you may follow the previous doctor's instructions for taking the medication. Symptoms will generally improve gradually. If symptoms persist, please consult you...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Duodenal Ulcers and Chest Discomfort: What to Do?
Impact of Anesthesia Dosage on Myasthenia Gravis Patients During Tooth Extraction
Medical issues I have myasthenia gravis and have been off medication for several years. Recently, I experienced inflammation and swelling of my wisdom tooth. I have taken antibiotics (B.B. Clindamycin) for 6 days and pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication (Voren). If I unde...
Dr. Chen Junwei Reply:
Hello: Currently, your myasthenia gravis has been in remission for several years without any recurrence, so it is less likely to be triggered by minor stress or medications. Additionally, tooth extraction anesthesia is local and should have minimal impact. It is recommended that ...[Read More] Impact of Anesthesia Dosage on Myasthenia Gravis Patients During Tooth Extraction
Understanding Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Pain in the lower back, noticeable when turning over and walking? Two days ago, while I was sleeping, I turned over and felt a sharp pain in my lower back. I initially thought it was due to sitting too long at work during the day. However, the next morning, the pain persisted, an...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Miss Peggy: Your symptoms appear to be indicative of acute pyelonephritis, which is characterized by fever, flank pain, dysuria, burning sensation, and increased urinary frequency. Symptoms can vary from person to person, and a correct diagnosis requires urine analysis and u...[Read More] Understanding Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Cold Medications and Their Side Effects: A Guide for Patients with Hepatitis B
Cold medications and their side effects? Question 1: 1. Sulindac 2. BSN 3. Tagamet 4. Strocain 5. Urfamycin 6. Acetin 7. Nocough I visited the doctor for a cold last time, and he prescribed me these medications. What are the potential side effects? I have hepatitis B, bu...
Dr. Xiao Jingqin Reply:
These medications include one antibiotic, two gastrointestinal medications (one antacid and two ulcer medications), one cough suppressant, one expectorant, and one anti-inflammatory analgesic. These are commonly used medications, and their side effects typically include abdominal...[Read More] Cold Medications and Their Side Effects: A Guide for Patients with Hepatitis B
Managing Lymphedema After Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered
Lymphedema Dear Doctor: My mother is 70 years old. Six years ago, she underwent surgery for stage II breast cancer, during which 8 lymph nodes were removed, and she received 12 sessions of chemotherapy. Her recovery has been good overall, but she occasionally experiences upper li...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: 1. Please avoid consuming too much salt, as the weather can have unclear effects. 2. If you experience redness, swelling, heat, or pain, seek medical attention immediately, preferably from the original surgeon. Additionally, regular follow-ups are important. 3. Antibiotics...[Read More] Managing Lymphedema After Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Pediatric Urticaria: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Pediatric Urticaria Urticaria, commonly known as hives, can be caused by various factors, including allergic reactions, infections, stress, and certain medications. The severity of symptoms can vary from mild itching and redness to more severe reactions, such as angioedema or ana...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear Mr. Ke, (1) Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is characterized by raised, itchy red welts that often have distinct snake-like borders, with a central area that may fade. The size of the welts can vary, and many people have experienced urticaria at some point. (2) The cau...[Read More] Understanding Pediatric Urticaria: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Do You Really Need Antibiotics for Your Symptoms?
Do I need to take antibiotics? I have a headache and a fever of 37.8°C. My throat is slightly swollen (day one). I saw a doctor who prescribed antibiotics. Should I take the antibiotics? I have a sensitive stomach, and every time I take medication, my stomach hurts the next day a...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hello: Thank you for your question. In response to your inquiry, I would like to provide the following advice: Most respiratory infections do not require antibiotics. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask.[Read More] Do You Really Need Antibiotics for Your Symptoms?
Understanding Recurrent Fever: Causes and Concerns in Adults
High fever Hello Doctor: Two years ago, on October 10th, while I was walking with a friend after visiting a night market, I started to feel pain in the back of my head, which then radiated to my back. Generally, I experience pain in the back of my head when I am very tired, but i...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello Nancy: 1. The fever and headache on October 10, 2005, may indicate a viral infection, possibly even symptoms of a central nervous system infection. After treatment (such as intravenous fluids and medication), the white blood cell count quickly rose from over 1000 to 4000,...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Fever: Causes and Concerns in Adults
Understanding Viral Infections in Children: Antibiotics and Fever Concerns
Issues Related to Viral Infections and Antibiotics My child is nine years old and last Wednesday had a fever reaching 40 degrees Celsius. We went to the pediatric outpatient clinic, where the doctor found only slight redness and swelling in the throat. Auscultation showed no bron...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
1. Viral infections refer to infections caused by filterable viruses. Influenza (commonly known as the flu) is just one of them; most colds are also caused by viruses. 2. Antibiotics are not needed for viral infections unless a bacterial infection occurs as a complication. 3....[Read More] Understanding Viral Infections in Children: Antibiotics and Fever Concerns
Understanding Antibiotic Effectiveness in Persistent Fever and Abscess Cases
The effects of antibiotics? Hello Doctor: A child has been experiencing unexplained persistent fever. During this time, the physician prescribed oral antibiotics. After two weeks of continuous fever, the child was hospitalized for observation. During the hospitalization, first-li...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
During the surgical discovery, it was confirmed that there was pus. In addition to the possibility that prior antibiotic use may have inhibited bacterial culture growth, one must also consider the presence of Mycobacterium, fungi, or other fastidious bacteria. Therefore, the obta...[Read More] Understanding Antibiotic Effectiveness in Persistent Fever and Abscess Cases
Understanding Symptoms: Headache, Weakness, and Possible Bacteremia
Headache, weakness in the right arm with difficulty lifting, previously had a fever up to 40 degrees Celsius, chest pain, neck stiffness, and red spots on the body? A 45-year-old female friend experienced sudden onset of headache five days ago, along with weakness in her right ar...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Hurry to the large hospital to register for an internal medicine emergency consultation for a series of tests to check for bacteremia. Additionally, due to neck stiffness, a consultation with a neurologist may be necessary to rule out the possibility of meningitis.[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Headache, Weakness, and Possible Bacteremia
Persistent Clear Discharge After Gonorrhea Treatment: What to Do?
Gonorrhea It has been over a month since I started treatment for gonorrhea, but I still experience a clear, egg-white discharge during erections. Doctor, what should I do now? I'm concerned that I have taken too many antibiotics and worry about developing antibiotic resistan...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
If the treatment is not satisfactory, bacterial culture and antibiotic sensitivity testing of the effusion should be performed to select the appropriate antibiotic and ensure adequate treatment duration. Concerns about antibiotic resistance should not be a primary focus at this t...[Read More] Persistent Clear Discharge After Gonorrhea Treatment: What to Do?
Understanding the Risks of Black Fly Bites: A Patient's Journey
Bite from a black fly? Hello Dr. Wang: My medical issue began as follows, and I hope you can help me. Thank you in advance! Many years ago, while camping by a stream near Pinglin, Taipei, I was bitten by a black fly (similar to a housefly). The bite felt like a knife cut and bled...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Hello: I recommend that you consult an infectious disease specialist for diagnosis and treatment. Sincerely, Dr. Wang Wei-Jie, Internal Medicine.[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Black Fly Bites: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Blood in Urine: Causes, Concerns, and Next Steps
Hematuria Hello, I previously experienced hematuria (visible blood in urine) and consulted a doctor. After a urinalysis, the doctor diagnosed me with a urinary tract infection and prescribed antibiotics. A month and a half later, I underwent another urinalysis, which showed no in...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question regarding hematuria, the most common causes are urinary tract infections or urinary stones. The first occurrence of gross hematuria is likely due to hemorrhagic cystitis. After the infection symptoms resolve, the presence of 5-10 red blood cell...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Urine: Causes, Concerns, and Next Steps
Am I Diabetic? Understanding Symptoms and Health Benefits of Running
Do I have diabetes? I have graduated from high school for over two years, and my weight is approaching 56 kg. No matter how I try to lose weight, I can't seem to drop any. I often feel dry mouth and thirst. After going to the hospital for a urine test, I was diagnosed with a...
Dr. Shi Guangzhong Reply:
1. It is common for weight to increase with age, which is related to the decline in our metabolic rate as we get older. This is why you may have noticed that you could eat anything without gaining weight in the past, but now even a slight increase in food intake leads to weight g...[Read More] Am I Diabetic? Understanding Symptoms and Health Benefits of Running
Understanding Sepsis: Complications and Treatment Challenges in Elderly Patients
Sepsis My father underwent a lengthy surgery for bone spurs and received nearly 20,000 milliliters of blood transfusions. He developed sepsis, and despite more than two months of investigation, the source of the infection remains unidentified. He has been treated solely with anti...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
The mortality rate for hospitalized patients with sepsis is generally around 35%. Only 30-50% of blood cultures are positive. Common sources include pneumonia or urinary tract infections. In postoperative patients, bacteria may also originate from surgical wounds. Additionally, i...[Read More] Understanding Sepsis: Complications and Treatment Challenges in Elderly Patients
Understanding Kidney Health: Impact of Urinary Infections and When to Seek Help
Kidneys..? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask, I have been experiencing frequent urinary tract infections or bladder infections recently and have visited a gynecologist, taking quite a few medications. Will this have a significant impact on my kidneys? Lately, I have been feeling ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
1. Recurrent urinary tract infections - a. First, arrange for a renal ultrasound to check for any urinary tract structural abnormalities. b. Then perform a urine culture. c. Based on the bacterial species identified, complete a full course of antibiotics. 2. Either a urology or n...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Health: Impact of Urinary Infections and When to Seek Help
Innovative IGY Immunoglobulin Treatment for Helicobacter Pylori Infection
Treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection with IGY immunoglobulin yolk? Hello, Doctor. My father is currently 45 years old and works as a taxi driver. He suffers from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In July of last year, he underwent an examination and was found to have ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hello Sophia: The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori in Taiwan is increasing, and it has been found to be associated with atrophic gastritis and early gastric lymphoma. The current standard treatment regimen involves a triple therapy or quadruple therapy for one to two weeks, foll...[Read More] Innovative IGY Immunoglobulin Treatment for Helicobacter Pylori Infection