Understanding High ANA Titers: Is 1:160 Considered Significant?
Re: High Titer ANA Hello, Doctor Gao. Thank you very much for your response. I still have some difficulties in interpreting the text. In your previous reply, you mentioned that normal individuals can also test positive for ANA. Does this mean that a titer of 1:160 is required to ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Indeed, we consider an ANA titer of 160 or higher (inclusive) to be significant, at least in my opinion. As for your current symptoms, it would be better to discuss them with your rheumatologist, as the diagnosis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus...[Read More] Understanding High ANA Titers: Is 1:160 Considered Significant?
Managing Joint Pain in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Issues related to systemic lupus erythematosus? Hello, doctor. I was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus in early April this year. I have already started taking medication, but I am currently away and do not have the English name of the medication with me, so I cannot pro...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
The diagnostic criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) include: 1. The presence of a fixed erythematous rash on the cheeks, known as a malar rash or butterfly rash; it typically does not involve the nasolabial folds. 2. The appearance of discoid lupus erythematosus lesion...[Read More] Managing Joint Pain in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Could I Have Ankylosing Spondylitis? Understanding Symptoms and Diagnosis
Ankylosing spondylitis? Hello, doctor! I have been experiencing a low-grade fever for over six months now (around 37.5 degrees Celsius). I tested negative for HLA-B27, but X-rays and a whole-body inflammatory scan showed inflammation in both sacroiliac joints. My symptoms include...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, ankylosing spondylitis is more common in males. If HLA-B27 is negative, the likelihood of ankylosing spondylitis decreases further. Ankylosing spondylitis has specific symptoms, including lower back pain that worsens with prolonged rest, asymmetric arthritis, and some indi...[Read More] Could I Have Ankylosing Spondylitis? Understanding Symptoms and Diagnosis
Can Emotional Stress Trigger Autoimmune Diseases Like RA or Lupus?
I'm confused..? Hello, doctor. Is it possible for a person to develop autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus erythematosus, due to emotional stress and tension? Or is it necessary to have a genetic predisposition that could be triggered by stress? I am co...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, the etiology of autoimmune diseases cannot be explained by a single cause; it is often multifactorial, including genetic, endocrine, and external factors. The most commonly mentioned external factors are infections and pollutants, such as viruses or smoking. The likelihood...[Read More] Can Emotional Stress Trigger Autoimmune Diseases Like RA or Lupus?
Can Emotional Stress Trigger Autoimmune Diseases Like Lupus?
Autoimmune system diseases Hello, doctor. Can a person develop autoimmune diseases solely due to emotional stress, such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus? Or is emotion merely a trigger? If someone does not have the genetic predisposition, emotional stress a...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Dear netizens, the occurrence of a disease is rarely due to a single factor; emotional stress or genetics can be potential triggers. By following recommended screenings, adopting the correct medical concepts, and maintaining good lifestyle habits such as proper diet and exercise,...[Read More] Can Emotional Stress Trigger Autoimmune Diseases Like Lupus?
Understanding Reiter's Syndrome: Prognosis, Treatment, and Dietary Considerations
Regarding Reiter's syndrome (reactive arthritis) I was recently diagnosed with Wright's syndrome, and looking back, I realize that I have had symptoms for over six months. I am currently taking antibiotics, immunomodulatory drugs, and pain medications. I would like to a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The prognosis for this condition is quite good. If inflammation and joint pain improve with ongoing treatment, it is possible to gradually reduce or even discontinue medication, which can be discussed with your physician. There are no specific ...[Read More] Understanding Reiter's Syndrome: Prognosis, Treatment, and Dietary Considerations
Sudden Paralysis: Understanding Risks for Autoimmune Patients
Sudden paralysis lasting for a few minutes? Hello, Doctor Gao. I am RA. In addition to RA, I also have some suspected autoimmune diseases (SLE) that are being monitored. This past weekend, I did some cleaning at home in the morning. While I was cleaning, I didn't feel any st...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. If the pain is sudden and improves gradually after rest, it is likely a temporary muscle strain due to excessive exertion, so there is no need to worry. However, if you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and are on long-term medication, you should ...[Read More] Sudden Paralysis: Understanding Risks for Autoimmune Patients
Understanding the Impact of RA on Joint Swelling After Falls
Sprain and RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis) 2 Hello, doctor. In my previous question, I forgot to mention that I am a diagnosed patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA); that is why I am concerned about the relationship between RA and the swelling of the joints after a fall. Given the con...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), joint injuries can also cause swelling. However, if the swelling does not subside after a period of time, further evaluation is necessary. This is important to check for more serious injuries or issue...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of RA on Joint Swelling After Falls
Understanding the Link Between Injuries and Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Sprains and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Hello, Doctor Gao. A while ago, I sustained an injury that resulted in some bruising on my body, and I have small hematomas at the metacarpophalangeal joints of my thumb and little finger. Since the injury was not severe, I thought that resti...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Among the possible pathogenic causes of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), there is currently no mention of trauma as a triggering factor, so there is no need to be overly concerned about this correlation. However, if the bruising has not improved after...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Injuries and Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Understanding RA: The Role of Immunomodulators and Anti-Inflammatory Diets
Regarding the inflammatory issues related to rheumatoid arthritis (RA)? Hello, Doctor Gao. I have recently been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and have researched a lot of information online. I have some questions I would like to ask you: 1. Regarding the medications ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The term "immunomodulatory drugs" refers to medications that regulate immune function. Although these drugs may not completely cure the underlying condition, they can be considered to have some curative effects. They help modulate the...[Read More] Understanding RA: The Role of Immunomodulators and Anti-Inflammatory Diets
Managing Lung Issues in RA: Can Bronchitis-Induced Asthma Be Cured?
Pulmonary issues in rheumatoid arthritis (RA)? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask: 1. Is obstructive bronchiolitis caused by rheumatoid arthritis (RA) curable if mild asthma symptoms begin to appear? (This means: Can medication cure it, and once cured, is there no need for ongoin...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, Tom. Thank you for your question. I will address your inquiries in the order they were presented. 1. There are many types of pulmonary complications caused by rheumatoid arthritis (RA). If it is obstructive bronchiolitis, the respiratory symptoms are usually more severe ...[Read More] Managing Lung Issues in RA: Can Bronchitis-Induced Asthma Be Cured?
Understanding Right Flank Pain: When to Consult a Nephrologist
It is unclear whether this phenomenon is related to renal pathology? Hello, I have been experiencing a dull ache and discomfort in my right lower back every morning upon waking up for the past week. I do not have any urgency to urinate or any other urinary symptoms. I'm unsu...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Dear You-Hsin, Hello. The causes of low back pain (also known as lumbago) are approximately 97% due to mechanical factors, including muscle strains, sprains, and spinal issues. Among these, over 70% are due to lumbar sprains, 4% are due to herniated discs, and 1% are due to non-...[Read More] Understanding Right Flank Pain: When to Consult a Nephrologist
Understanding RA Symptoms: Are They Related to Vasculitis?
Vasculitis? Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)? Hello, doctor. I have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) at a medical center due to polyarticular pain and a strongly positive anti-CCP test. I have been on medication for quite some time. Recently, I have been experiencing recurr...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Based on the symptoms you described, vasculitis is a possibility, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can also lead to vasculitis. However, vasculitis associated with RA typically occurs when medication control is inadequate or treatment is irregular....[Read More] Understanding RA Symptoms: Are They Related to Vasculitis?
Understanding the Differences in Treatment for RA, Osteoarthritis, and SLE
Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Hello, Doctor. I have been diagnosed and treated for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and asthma for over six months now, but my joint pain still fluctuates. My systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is still being monitored. Since I am n...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, Xiaomi. Thank you for your question. First, it would be helpful to organize your concerns into a list, as this will make your outpatient visit more efficient and reduce your anxiety. The treatments for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and oste...[Read More] Understanding the Differences in Treatment for RA, Osteoarthritis, and SLE
Understanding Wrist Swelling: Could It Be Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The bones in both wrists are swollen? Dear Doctor, Hello. For the past two months, I have been experiencing discomfort in my left shoulder, feeling stiff and painful in certain positions, making it difficult to lift my arm. In the last two weeks, I have noticed swelling between ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, Nanxi, thank you for your questions. Here are the answers to your inquiries: 1. Is it possible to have rheumatoid arthritis? Answer: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic form of arthritis, and since your pain has lasted a maximum of only two months, with wrist pain for only ...[Read More] Understanding Wrist Swelling: Could It Be Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Understanding Syphilis: Long-term Effects and Risks of Recurrent Infections
Syphilis infection Hello Doctor, I have some questions to ask you. 1. A year and a half ago, I was infected with syphilis and received treatment (antibiotic injections). My RPR value has decreased by more than fourfold and is currently at 1:16, but my TPHA remains around 1:5120...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. No, please continue to avoid dangerous behaviors (substance abuse and unsafe sexual practices). 2. No, thank you![Read More] Understanding Syphilis: Long-term Effects and Risks of Recurrent Infections
Monitoring RA: The Role of Anti-CCP and RF in Disease Management
Monitoring of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) condition? Hello, Doctor Gao. When I was diagnosed with RA, in addition to multiple joints being inflamed and painful, my test results showed anti-CCP (>3+, strongly positive), RF (-), and ESR (+). After the diagnosis, the hospital infor...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. In principle, for rheumatoid arthritis, blood tests are typically done every three months, unless there is a change in medication and there are concerns about potential side effects, in which case blood tests may be scheduled every two weeks to...[Read More] Monitoring RA: The Role of Anti-CCP and RF in Disease Management
Understanding and Managing Polyarticular Pain: When to Seek Help
Polyarticular pain Hello, doctor: I would like to ask... I suddenly have pain in both shoulder joints, pain in the right thumb joint, and pain in both knees. There are no visible abnormalities, no deformities, and no redness or swelling. The pain is so severe that I cannot walk, ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Ms. Chang, thank you for your message. Although traditional arthritis can present with redness, swelling, heat, and pain, sometimes these symptoms may not be detectable by self-examination, and it is necessary to have a physician assess the condition. If you have already co...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Polyarticular Pain: When to Seek Help
Understanding Anti-CCP: What a Weak Positive Result Means for You
Anti-CCP, or anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies, are autoantib Hello Dr. Gao, Since the beginning of this year, I have been experiencing difficulty gripping with both hands upon waking up in the morning. My fingers, wrists, and shoulder joints are painful, and sometim...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. A weakly positive anti-CCP refers to a value that is below three times the normal range, while a strongly positive result is above that threshold. In the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, the confirmation relies on the total score from various...[Read More] Understanding Anti-CCP: What a Weak Positive Result Means for You
Understanding Dry Eyes, Throat, and Tongue: Possible Causes and Solutions
Dry eyes, dry throat, and an unusual feeling in the tongue? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about my condition. Since February, I have been experiencing unusual sensations in my tongue, along with dry eyes and a dry throat. 1. I consulted a rheumatologist, and the tests sho...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, internet user: There are many causes of dry eye syndrome. In the case of autoimmune dry syndrome, in addition to testing for Anti-Ro and Anti-La antibodies through blood tests, if the blood tests are normal, a salivary gland biopsy can be performed. Other immunological tes...[Read More] Understanding Dry Eyes, Throat, and Tongue: Possible Causes and Solutions