Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis Medications During Pregnancy
Medication for Pregnant Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Hello Doctor: I am 34 years old and have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis for 16 years. Currently, I am taking 2.5 mg of steroids daily, one Clinoril pain reliever in the morning and one in the evening, one q...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, user: I apologize for the delayed response due to circumstances. The active ingredient in Clinoril is sulindac. Currently, there is insufficient research to confirm its absolute safety during pregnancy; therefore, its use is not recommended during this period. Thank you fo...[Read More] Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis Medications During Pregnancy
Muscle Strain or Kidney Issues? Understanding Your Pain Symptoms
Muscle strain or kidney issues? Five days ago, while swimming, I noticed some pain near my kidney area, similar to the soreness one feels after intense exercise, like sprinting 500 meters. The next day, the pain intensified, but I didn't see a doctor at that time. Over the p...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, pain in the left back near the kidney can have many potential causes. Common conditions include fasciitis, kidney stones, inflammatory arthritis, myofascial pain syndrome, neuritis, skin disorders, tumors, and vascular lesions, among others. B...[Read More] Muscle Strain or Kidney Issues? Understanding Your Pain Symptoms
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases in the Cavernous Sinus
Autoimmune diseases Hello, doctor: Can autoimmune diseases occur in the cavernous sinus? (This question refers to whether rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can manifest in the cavernous sinus; is this statement correct?) What autoimmune diseases are associated with the cavernous sin...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, it seems you are asking whether autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, can affect the cavernous sinus. Based on the current available data, I have not encountered such cases, nor have I come across any related reports, so I cannot provide you with a d...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases in the Cavernous Sinus
Understanding Tendonitis and Joint Pain: Effective Remedies and Concerns
The term "膏肓" (gāo huāng) refers to a specific acupuncture point Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about my mother, who is 37 years old. She has been doing housework for many years and had an accidental fall down the stairs, which has led to her developing tendinit...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, internet user: It is uncommon for a 37-year-old to have degenerative arthritis unless there has been an injury to the joint or other underlying issues. Supplementing with glucosamine has shown effectiveness primarily for knee osteoarthritis, but it does not provide calcium...[Read More] Understanding Tendonitis and Joint Pain: Effective Remedies and Concerns
Risks of Pregnancy for Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: What to Know
What risks do patients with rheumatoid arthritis face during pregnancy? Hello Doctor: I am 34 years old and have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis for 16 years. I have been taking 2.5 mg of steroids daily, one Clinoril painkiller in the morning and one in the evening, and ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Dear Xiao Pei, Hello, (1) It is possible to become pregnant after stopping methotrexate (MTX) for more than three months, and management can only rely on corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory pain relievers. (2) As long as you cooperate with your physician, the risks are ver...[Read More] Risks of Pregnancy for Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: What to Know
Understanding Finger Pain: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help
Finger issues Hello Doctor: My dad initially experienced pain in his left middle finger and was unable to bend it. He consulted a doctor who said it was due to nerve compression and recommended surgery to relieve the nerve. However, my dad was afraid of the pain and did not go th...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
If the interphalangeal joints exhibit a trigger-like phenomenon, it may be indicative of trigger finger. However, if there is pain and swelling in the distal or proximal joints of the middle finger, it is more likely to be arthritis. The former may require surgical intervention, ...[Read More] Understanding Finger Pain: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Persistent Fever: Potential Underlying Diseases Explained
Recurrent fever Recurrent fever for five consecutive days without resolution could be caused by several conditions, including infections (such as viral or bacterial infections), autoimmune diseases (like systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis), malignancies (such as...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
Aside from common upper respiratory infections, the primary consideration for fever in young women is urinary tract infection (UTI). Patients often present with symptoms such as dysuria or flank pain. To determine the cause of fever, it is essential to correlate it with various c...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Fever: Potential Underlying Diseases Explained
Understanding Joint Pain: Possible Causes and Treatment Options
Joint issues Doctor: Hello. My left knee cartilage has been worn down due to work for the past ten years. Recently, I've been experiencing pain in the area between my knees and my tailbone. After walking a distance or squatting for a while, both of my heels feel warm, but it...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Dear Aa: Hello, based on the described situation, it seems to be related to the tendons and joints. The symptoms alone cannot determine if it is rheumatoid arthritis. I recommend visiting an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist to identify the specific issue and then provide a...[Read More] Understanding Joint Pain: Possible Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Behçet's Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
What is Behçet's disease? My mother is currently 48 years old, but she often feels unwell due to some stress. Eight years ago, she developed a stress-related ulcer and gastrointestinal bleeding. Two to three years ago, she was diagnosed with degenerative arthritis and has be...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: There are several types of hyperthyroidism, with the most common being an autoimmune reaction disease. Graves' disease is also an autoimmune disorder, and there may be some correlation between the two.[Read More] Understanding Behçet's Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Can Stem Cell Therapy from Cord Blood Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis Is stem cell therapy an option for rheumatoid arthritis? I have been suffering from this condition for 5-6 years, and many of my joints can no longer bear weight or have not regained their full range of motion. I am due to give birth this month; can umbilical...
Dr. Wang Fangli Reply:
Hello, Cherry Forest: There are literature reports indicating that the use of stem cells for autologous bone marrow transplantation has therapeutic effects, but it remains a preliminary experimental therapy. It is advisable to consult with a rheumatology and immunology specialist...[Read More] Can Stem Cell Therapy from Cord Blood Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Understanding Blood Test Results: Cholesterol, Gout, and Follow-Up Care
Blood draw issues? Hello, on May 19th, I had a health check-up, and the blood test report showed some concerning results: total cholesterol 125, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) 39, urine pH 7, and a positive reaction for occult blood. Does this indicate a risk for cardiovascular d...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. The essence of a health check-up is to screen for specific diseases or issues through certain tests or examinations, and if necessary, to conduct further evaluations or diagnoses. 2. Your total cholesterol level is 125 mg/dL, and your high...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Cholesterol, Gout, and Follow-Up Care
Effective Strategies to Prevent Rheumatoid Arthritis Flare-Ups
How to prevent rheumatoid arthritis? As the weather gets cooler, my knees become inflamed, and I experience soreness in all ten fingers and even my shoulders. What can I do to prevent this from worsening? Thank you.
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hello Wansia: 1. As the weather gets colder, poor blood circulation can lead to an increased occurrence or worsening of arthritis, so it is advisable to ensure proper warmth. 2. If there is gouty arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, a blood biochemical test should be conducted for ...[Read More] Effective Strategies to Prevent Rheumatoid Arthritis Flare-Ups
Understanding High Uric Acid and Its Impact on Kidney Health
Uric acid issues? Hello, doctor: Recently, I participated in a health check-up, and the abdominal ultrasound report indicated that there are bilateral renal calcifications (gouty nephropathy) in the kidneys. The examining physician mentioned that this is caused by my elevated uri...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
1. Bilateral renal calcifications may indicate the presence of calcified spots within the kidneys, which cannot be confirmed by other means. This could be one of the manifestations of hyperuricemia or hypercalcemia. If accompanied by hyperuricemia, controlling uric acid levels (t...[Read More] Understanding High Uric Acid and Its Impact on Kidney Health
Understanding Joint Sounds and Pain: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Multiple joints produce sounds (clicking or popping)? Hello, Dr. Chen. My right leg feels numb and sore; sometimes, while sitting, I experience discomfort that radiates from my right buttock down through my entire right leg. My body occasionally feels achy without a specific loca...
Dr. Chen Baoli Reply:
Hello Alley: There are many potential causes for your issue, which could include arthritis, laxity of the tendons or ligaments around the joint, myofascial pain syndrome, among others. Based solely on the description provided, it is not possible to diagnose the true cause. I reco...[Read More] Understanding Joint Sounds and Pain: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Can Blood Cleansing Machines Help Lower Uric Acid in Gout Patients?
Gout 1. Can gout patients use "extracorporeal machines" to cleanse their blood in order to lower uric acid levels? I have been diagnosed by my physician with gout-induced arthritis, but I still have residual pain after two weeks. Is it possible that it is not gout? Can ...
Dr. Yao Quan Reply:
Hello: 1. Uric acid cannot be completely eliminated through dialysis; moreover, it can be effectively lowered with medication, so there is no need for excessive measures. 2. Gout typically resolves within a week, but if the wrong medication is used, the diagnosis is incorrect, or...[Read More] Can Blood Cleansing Machines Help Lower Uric Acid in Gout Patients?
Understanding Reactive Arthritis: Risks and Management for Patients
Reactive arthritis I was diagnosed with Relapsing Polychondritis, and I have inflammation in my hip joint, clavicle, and the soles of my feet. However, my doctor mentioned that the inflammation is mild. I was prescribed Celecoxib, but I have been taking medication for gastroesoph...
Dr. Chen Baoli Reply:
Hello Kkman: First of all, if you have been diagnosed with Behçet's syndrome, you should adhere to your doctor's advice regarding medication, especially with "Salazopyrin" (salazopyrine). You should not stop taking it just because you are "not in much pai...[Read More] Understanding Reactive Arthritis: Risks and Management for Patients
Understanding Kidney Issues: Insights on Cysts, Family History, and Health Risks
Kidney problems Dr. Yang Jun: Recently, my father's health check results came out, and three items were marked as abnormal: [Urinalysis] Specific Gravity (Sp.gr) *≤1.005, [Biochemical Tests] Uric Acid *7.95, and [Abdominal Ultrasound] *Left Renal Cyst. I would like to ask wh...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions, there are many inquiries in your message, and I cannot address them all individually. I recommend that you consult a nephrologist in person for a more comprehensive evaluation. However, I will address a few questions online. Urine specific ...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: Insights on Cysts, Family History, and Health Risks
Understanding Abnormal Urine and Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
Examination report issues Hello, doctor. Recently, I noticed that my urine has been yellow for a while and hasn't improved. Additionally, I've been experiencing lower back pain, so I thought there might be an issue with my kidneys. I went to a laboratory to have my urin...
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, I will address only the issues related to uric acid and blood lipids. A complete answer regarding other data requires a visit to an internist to review all reports (blood and urine). Elevated uric acid levels are a precursor to gout, and if it...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urine and Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding Skin Pain Associated with Cold Symptoms
Skin pain caused by a cold? Hello Dr. Zhao, I have a question regarding a cold: Over the past year, whenever I catch a cold, in addition to the usual symptoms of runny nose, nasal congestion, mild dizziness, excessive phlegm, and general discomfort, I have been experiencing &qu...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
What you are referring to is abnormal sensation, which is known as paresthesia in English. It can be caused by poor blood circulation throughout the body, atherosclerosis due to deposits of cholesterol or thrombosis, vitamin deficiencies, poor nutritional status, diabetes, hypoth...[Read More] Understanding Skin Pain Associated with Cold Symptoms
Understanding Weakness in Hands and Feet: Causes and Solutions
Weakness in the limbs? Hello, I have been troubled by a long-standing issue where my hands and feet often feel weak. Sometimes, I even struggle to lift my hands to brush my teeth, and when I walk up stairs, it can get so severe that I end up kneeling down. I have low blood pressu...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello, in response to your question. The complaint of "weakness in the limbs" is common in clinical practice; however, due to the subjective nature of the experience, which varies from person to person, and the multitude of potential causes that lack specificity, it can...[Read More] Understanding Weakness in Hands and Feet: Causes and Solutions