Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Concerns and Implications
Elevated rheumatoid factor in health check-ups? Hello Doctor, I underwent a full body health check in August and unexpectedly found my RF to be 240 (normal <15), while other results were normal. I went to the immunology department for a re-examination. I have no discomfort, an...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
A netizen discovered an RF level of 240 during a comprehensive health check-up. RF is not exclusively associated with rheumatoid arthritis; it is commonly found in carriers of hepatitis B, chronic infections, inflammation, and autoimmune diseases. RF does not have predictive valu...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Concerns and Implications
Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Symptoms and Concerns
Symptoms of elevated rheumatoid factor? Hello, doctor. Recently, I had a blood test that showed my rheumatoid factor was elevated by more than ten times. I later visited a doctor for further blood tests, and aside from a slightly elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate indicating...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. My recommendations are as follows: 1. You should have regular follow-ups, such as every three months. If you experience any changes in symptoms before the scheduled follow-up, including joint pain, skin rashes, fever, etc., you can return for an...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Abnormal RF and ESR Results: What You Need to Know
Abnormal RF and ESR? Hello Doctor, I had a CRP test on April 21st which was 0.1 (normal range 0-1 mg/dL), and on July 19th, my comprehensive health check showed an abnormal RF of 242 (<15 IU/mL). On August 7th, I visited the immunology department, and during a brief consultati...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. A high RF (Rheumatoid Factor) may be associated with other conditions, including viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis C, Sjögren's syndrome, and other rheumatic diseases. It is advisable to consult your physician for more detailed examin...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal RF and ESR Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: What You Need to Know
Elevated rheumatoid factor issue? Hello, Doctor. Last month, at the end of July, I underwent a comprehensive health check-up and unexpectedly found that my rheumatoid factor was elevated (242 IU/ml, with a reference range of below 20 IU/ml). All other health check items were almo...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. The health check report indicates that a small number of healthy individuals may also have elevated RF factors—if I have no symptoms, should I not worry too much? --> Some symptoms can be very mild and may go unno...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: What You Need to Know
Understanding Thyroid Function and Hair Loss: Key Insights for Patients
Thyroid blood test value consultation? In recent years, I have been troubled by hair loss and have noticed that the new hair growth is finer and not as strong as my original hair. Despite visiting several dermatologists, I have not been able to find the cause of my hair loss (all...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Short-term use of high doses of steroids may affect thyroid function. Currently, your blood test results do not indicate any significant thyroid dysfunction. If you believe that steroids are contributing to hair loss, it is advisable to discuss this with your rheumatologist.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Function and Hair Loss: Key Insights for Patients
Do All Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Experience Morning Stiffness?
Do all patients with ankylosing spondylitis experience morning stiffness? Hello Doctor: I would like to confirm something with you regarding a question I asked yesterday (<a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/182368">#182368</a>, details below). I am attaching...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Morning stiffness is not related to the condition of the L4-5 vertebrae. Morning stiffness is associated with inflammation of the joints, tendons, and ligaments. The reason some individuals experience morning stiffne...[Read More] Do All Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Experience Morning Stiffness?
Could COVID Vaccine Trigger Arthritis Flare-Ups Months Later?
Will the recurrence of the condition after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine occur only three months later? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I suspect that after receiving the first dose of the BNT vaccine, my previously well-controlled ankylosing spondyliti...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello: The vaccines currently being administered may cause some patients to experience side effects; please refer to Attachment 1 for details. 2. If there are concerns about discontinuing medication or side effects after vaccination, please consult with your original physician fo...[Read More] Could COVID Vaccine Trigger Arthritis Flare-Ups Months Later?
Managing Hand Numbness in Fibromyalgia: Seeking the Right Specialist
Fibromyalgia and hand numbness? Hello, doctor. I have been suffering from hand pain and numbness for about three years. Initially, I was examined at two major hospitals in central Taiwan, and they both indicated issues related to autoimmune rheumatic arthritis. I was on medicatio...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The numbness you are experiencing is likely not related to fibromyalgia; it seems more probable that it is due to carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be confirmed through neurological examinations while ruling out cervical spine ...[Read More] Managing Hand Numbness in Fibromyalgia: Seeking the Right Specialist
Effectiveness of Sulfasalazine in Treating Sacroiliitis: A Doctor's Insight
Is the treatment effect of Salazopyrine for sacroiliac joint arthritis significant? Hello Doctor, I previously asked you about the treatment for my son's ankylosing spondylitis, and I would like to confirm one more thing. I found on the internet that most sources state, &quo...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Salazopyrin is indeed not very effective for sacroiliitis, but it does have a good effect on reducing inflammatory responses. Therefore, for patients with ankylosing spondylitis who only have axial spine inflammation, if there is also an increa...[Read More] Effectiveness of Sulfasalazine in Treating Sacroiliitis: A Doctor's Insight
Understanding Elevated RF Levels: Implications for Autoimmune Disorders
Rheumatoid factor (RF) is elevated in rheumatoid arthritis? Hello Doctor, I have had an allergic constitution since childhood and have been receiving treatment in the rheumatology and immunology department for long-term issues related to my nose and urticaria. During my last visi...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If the test results mentioned above are all the examinations you have undergone, I believe there are additional tests that can be arranged. If you are very concerned and unsure about whether to take quinine, I suggest you consult another rheumat...[Read More] Understanding Elevated RF Levels: Implications for Autoimmune Disorders
Possible Causes of Swelling and Pain in the Right Ring Finger Joint
The possible causes of swelling and pain in the first joint of the right hand's ring finger may include: 1. **Osteoarthritis**: Degenerative joint disease that can cause pain and swelling in the joints. 2. **Rheumatoid Arthritis**: An autoimmune condition that leads to infl...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Based on your symptoms, I suspect you may have trigger finger, and I recommend having another physician take a look. The occurrence of trigger finger is related to overuse of the fingers, but in some cases, the cause remains unclear. Additionall...[Read More] Possible Causes of Swelling and Pain in the Right Ring Finger Joint
Assessing Long-Term Risks of Biologics vs. Traditional Treatments
Biologics (Follow-up Question) Dear Dr. Gao, Below the asterisks is the question I raised on January 17. I appreciate your detailed response, and I would like to ask a few more questions: 1) I want to focus on the long-term severe (or life-threatening) side effects. The long-te...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here is my consolidated response: 1) I would like to focus on the long-term severe (or fatal) side effects. The long-term severe (or fatal) side effects of Celebrex (celecoxib) include cardiovascular, renal, and gastrointestinal issues. The lon...[Read More] Assessing Long-Term Risks of Biologics vs. Traditional Treatments
Effective Treatment Strategies for Ankylosing Spondylitis in Young Patients
Treatment methods My son is currently 18 years old and began experiencing symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis two years ago, with a diagnosis made one year ago. I have the following questions: 1) For the past six months, my son has been taking two capsules of Celebrex (200 mg ea...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
1) It is effective, and it is recommended to continue taking it while adjusting the dosage over time. 2) Do not consider switching to immunomodulators for now. 3) Only if CRP/ESR remains high after medication can one apply for biologics. 4) SIMPONI is not suitable for children un...[Read More] Effective Treatment Strategies for Ankylosing Spondylitis in Young Patients
Does COVID-19 Vaccination Worsen Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms?
Will getting the COVID-19 vaccine worsen the condition of ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor: My child is a patient with ankylosing spondylitis and has been taking Secukinumab for a year. The inflammatory markers have been under control. On September 27, he received the first d...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1) In your clinical experience, how common is it for patients with rheumatic diseases to experience worsening conditions after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine? --> I only have personal experience and no national statist...[Read More] Does COVID-19 Vaccination Worsen Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms?
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
Understanding Arthritis Medications: Managing Symptoms and Side Effects
Arthritis medications I have been under follow-up in the rheumatology and immunology department for a year and a half. Previously, I was not on any medication, but my erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) for 2 hours and 1 hour has consistently been elevated, with values ranging f...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Based on your question, my response is as follows: 1. Your symptoms resemble urticaria, which may be a side effect of medication; both the anti-inflammatory or pain relief medications could be potential culprits. Urticaria is generally a mild ...[Read More] Understanding Arthritis Medications: Managing Symptoms and Side Effects
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Triggers, and Healing Insights
Rheumatoid Arthritis - Condition Monitoring and Questions Hello, Dr. Gao: I have been diagnosed with seronegative rheumatoid arthritis for one year and am currently taking pain relievers, corticosteroids, and immunomodulators (quinine/enteric-coated tablets). My main symptoms are...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I will assume that your condition is "seronegative rheumatoid arthritis" for my response. Here is my summary: 1. After dinner, your fingers swell (and the swelling subsides after digestion). 2. During exercise, your fingers swell (an...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Triggers, and Healing Insights
Understanding the Causes of Ankylosing Spondylitis: Is It Genetic or Lifestyle?
I would like to inquire about the causes of ankylosing spondylitis? Dear Doctor, Three years ago, I experienced tightness and discomfort in my upper back, and after being evaluated by two physicians, I was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). X-rays were taken, and I test...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Here are my responses to your questions: 1. Could multiple sexual partners and risky behaviors be the main causes of ankylosing spondylitis? --> I believe the physician who is concerned about your private life may suspect that your symptoms...[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Ankylosing Spondylitis: Is It Genetic or Lifestyle?
Missed the Golden Treatment Window for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Did rheumatoid arthritis miss the golden period for treatment? Hello, doctor. For the past two to three years, I thought my joint pain was due to aging, but I only learned over a year ago that I have rheumatoid arthritis. Unfortunately, it has already caused damage to my foot joi...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, regarding the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, the earlier the better. The first year after onset, or even the six months prior to the onset, is considered the golden period for treatment. However, as long as a diagnosis is confirmed, it is never too late to pursue aggre...[Read More] Missed the Golden Treatment Window for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Joint Pain and Stiffness: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
The finger joints are swollen and painful, but the doctor said it is not rheumatoid arthritis? Hello Doctor, since late last year, I have noticed stiffness in my finger joints upon waking up, which was mild at first. Recently, the frequency has increased, and almost every day my ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. An ANA value of 1:80 falls into a gray area. However, if you continue to experience joint pain and stiffness, along with occasional nighttime pain that disrupts your sleep, I recommend that you visit a rheumatology clinic to discuss your concern...[Read More] Joint Pain and Stiffness: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation