Vaccines and Inflammation: Understanding Symptoms in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Vaccines and Inflammatory Markers Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. Recently, after receiving the vaccine, I have developed new symptoms of chest pain, which has lasted for six months. Both cardiology and pulmonology have stated that it is not a heart or l...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, the vaccine can indeed trigger the activation of autoimmune diseases. First, it's important to determine whether the nature and location of the chest pain are related to ankylosing spondylitis; you may want to consult a rheumatologist. If that is ruled out, you should...[Read More] Vaccines and Inflammation: Understanding Symptoms in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis: Pain Relief and Rehabilitation Options
Rheumatology and Immunology Hello, doctor. I have issues with ankylosing spondylitis and spondylitis. I usually start feeling pain around four or five in the morning. I previously visited Chi Mei Hospital, where I had imaging done and reviewed the reports. The doctor mentioned th...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Treatment for ankylosing spondylitis requires regular check-ups, medication adjustments based on examinations and symptoms, continuous exercise, and rehabilitation if necessary. I highly recommend exercise, and it is especially important for th...[Read More] Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis: Pain Relief and Rehabilitation Options
How Smoking Affects Pain Areas in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients
Newly added pain locations for ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, I often see reports online stating that patients with ankylosing spondylitis should not smoke, but they do not explain how smoking affects ankylosing spondylitis. I would like to ask you, if smoking increases pa...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Ankylosing spondylitis not only affects the spine but also indirectly or directly impacts the ribs due to their connection with the spine, leading to chest and back pain. Many chronic ankylosing spondylitis patients experience rib or chest pain...[Read More] How Smoking Affects Pain Areas in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients
Chest Pain in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Which Specialist to See First?
If a patient with ankylosing spondylitis experiences chest pain, they should first consult a rheumatologist? Hello Doctor, I am 51 years old and a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, which I developed at the age of 45. My symptoms initially included only buttock pain and morning...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I recommend seeing a rheumatologist first, as the duration of pain and the pain pattern may resemble that of ankylosing spondylitis, and it could potentially be related to it. If you still have concerns, you can discuss your anxiety about cardi...[Read More] Chest Pain in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Which Specialist to See First?
Understanding Gout Symptoms: Normal Uric Acid Levels and Foot Discomfort
Regarding normal uric acid levels but slight discomfort in the big toe? Hello Director Gao, I apologize for disturbing you, but I would like to consult you regarding a patient. About ten years ago, the patient experienced sudden severe pain in the foot and was diagnosed with gou...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Can gout occur even with normal uric acid levels? For example, if someone suddenly consumes a large amount of seafood or red meat, or if they haven't been drinking enough water recently, could this trigger a mild...[Read More] Understanding Gout Symptoms: Normal Uric Acid Levels and Foot Discomfort
Understanding Kidney Issues: Urination Patterns and Posture Effects
Kidney problems Hello Doctor: My urine output is not very high, about 100 to 200 ml each time, and the color is yellow or dark yellow. I feel the urge to urinate every 2 to 3 hours. However, when I am half-reclining and half-sitting on my bed using my phone at night, the time bet...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
1. Urine color is not related to posture; it is recommended to visit a hospital for examination to rule out urinary system issues. 2. Kidney function impairment is assessed by serum creatinine and glomerular filtration rate. If there is no proteinuria and the values are normal, i...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: Urination Patterns and Posture Effects
Understanding Acanthosis Nigricans and Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide
Blood sugar exceeds? Hello, doctor. I am currently 176 cm tall and at my heaviest, I weighed 103 kg. I have now reduced my weight to 89 kg and am continuing to lose weight. My body fat percentage is 23% (down from 32% at my heaviest) and my visceral fat is 12 (down from 16 at my ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Hello: If you have acanthosis nigricans, it is recommended to test for hemoglobin A1c. If the result is between 5.7 and 6.4, it indicates prediabetes.[Read More] Understanding Acanthosis Nigricans and Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide
Concerns About Undercooked Pork: Symptoms and Parasitic Infection Risks
Undercooked pork consumption issues? Hello, doctor. Before the Qingming Festival, I dined at a Japanese pork cutlet chain restaurant and noticed that some pieces of meat seemed undercooked. The symptoms I experienced are as follows: 1. After returning home, I did not have any sig...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Parasites in raw pork typically die after freezing, so unless you are consuming freshly slaughtered and cooked pork chops, the likelihood of contracting parasites from undercooked pork in Taiwan is quite low. Given the current COVID-19 pandemic, it is more appropriate to f...[Read More] Concerns About Undercooked Pork: Symptoms and Parasitic Infection Risks
Understanding Lung Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Lung cancer issues? My husband was diagnosed with malignant liver cancer (stage II) last August. The tumor pressed against the diaphragm, so a small portion was surgically removed. Since March of this year, he has been experiencing persistent shortness of breath, occasional fever...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is likely that a weakened immune system has led to a lung infection or inflammation. Whether there is emphysema or lung cancer requires further examination for confirmation. Typically, your condition is indeed managed by a pulmonologist; howev...[Read More] Understanding Lung Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Understanding Kidney Issues: The Significance of Proteinuria and Creatinine Levels
Kidney issues (proteinuria) Urine Creatinine: 93.4 mg/dL Micro Albumin: 25.7 * mg/dL (Random Urine < 1.9 mg/dL) Urine Protein: 42.0 * mg/dL < 14 ACR: 275.16 * µg/mg Creatinine (<30) Protein/(Creatinine/1000): 449.68 mg/g Serum Creatinine: 1.07 Doctor, I have...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Dear Mr. A-Mao, Regarding your concerns about proteinuria, kidney function, and kidney biopsy, here are some suggestions for your consideration: 1. You may want to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of a kidney biopsy with your physician. An excerpt from UpToDate states, "...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: The Significance of Proteinuria and Creatinine Levels
Understanding HIV Testing: Safety Concerns and Antibody Detection
HIV infection 1. Hello, doctor: I recently purchased an HIV test kit (Kenvair) from the pharmacy, which is currently offered by the Centers for Disease Control. I would like to ask if this test kit detects antibodies, does it contain any components of the HIV virus itself? After ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The reagent contains artificially synthesized compounds similar to HIV antigens, which have no infectious capability and are not HIV viruses. 2. Hello, there have been no reported cases of infection under the conditions you described, so it is unlikely that infection wo...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Safety Concerns and Antibody Detection
Does Acne Affect ESR Levels in Young Patients?
Can acne cause an increase in ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate)? Hello Doctor: I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and I am 19 years old. Although I take my medication regularly, during my follow-up blood tests, I notice that my CRP levels are relatively stable and wel...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. ESR and CRP are different; they are indirect markers of inflammation and can be influenced by many factors. In principle, your physician will evaluate whether an elevated ESR is truly related to disease activity. Severe acne can also be complic...[Read More] Does Acne Affect ESR Levels in Young Patients?
Where to Find Hormone Therapy for MTF Patients in Taichung?
For MTF hormone therapy, it is best to consult with an endocrinologist or a healthcare provider specializing in transgender health? I recently moved back to Taichung and have visited several hospitals, but none of the doctors are able to prescribe hormone therapy medications. The...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Large hospitals should have it. It may be that the time period has not yet arrived, hence it cannot be prescribed.[Read More] Where to Find Hormone Therapy for MTF Patients in Taichung?
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
Should Stable Type 2 Diabetes Patients Continue Visiting Medical Centers?
Do patients with stable type 2 diabetes still need to continue follow-up visits at a medical center? Hello Doctor, I apologize for the interruption! I would like to ask you a question. I have been living with type 2 diabetes for over seven years. After discovering this issue duri...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If blood sugar levels can be consistently controlled, it is recommended that you transfer to a primary care medical facility for management. It is best to choose a facility that has a physician specializing in metabolic disorders or one that is part of a diabetes collaborative ca...[Read More] Should Stable Type 2 Diabetes Patients Continue Visiting Medical Centers?
Post-Kidney Biopsy Care: Recovery Tips and Common Concerns
Regarding kidney biopsy? Hello, doctor! I recently underwent a kidney biopsy and would like to ask a few questions... 1. I found online that after a kidney biopsy, one should avoid lifting heavy objects for at least two weeks. However, my attending physician is willing to allow...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
According to your inquiry: 1. After a kidney biopsy, there is no strict requirement for a specific number of days of rest; it depends on individual circumstances. If you feel physically capable of returning to your usual work after a week, it should be fine. 2. If there is no ede...[Read More] Post-Kidney Biopsy Care: Recovery Tips and Common Concerns
Understanding Nerve Sensations: When to Seek Medical Advice
Please ask your question? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a few questions. I visited a place today where an accident recently occurred, and I became quite anxious. After taking a hot shower and then washing my hands with cold water, I noticed a slight tingling sensation on...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the condition you mentioned is primarily caused by sudden exposure to cold water, leading to vasoconstriction and nerve tingling. This is not a stroke or a cervical spine issue; it is a normal physiological response. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Nerve Sensations: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Nausea and Discomfort: Common Gastrointestinal Issues
Nausea and discomfort? In the past few days, I have been experiencing a nauseating sensation in my throat. It's not painful, but it feels like something is there, and I can't seem to burp it out. Additionally, I occasionally feel mild discomfort in my upper left abdomen...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, what you mentioned seems to be different conditions. Nausea and upper abdominal pain may suggest gastritis, and a light diet is recommended, which should help improve the skin condition on your hands. Since I haven't seen it directly, I cannot make a definitive diagno...[Read More] Understanding Nausea and Discomfort: Common Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Cough and Left Back Pain in Mitral Valve Prolapse Patients
Cold and cough. Soreness in the left back? I have a problem with mitral valve prolapse, and I am taking medication for palpitations and to prevent heart failure. I tend to be more sensitive and anxious, and sometimes my family says I make a big deal out of small issues. However, ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Regarding your back pain, it is likely caused by a muscle strain. If you haven't experienced any recent injuries, it may be due to poor posture or muscle strain from excessive coughing. Typically, applying heat or using a topical analgesic can help alleviate the ...[Read More] Understanding Cough and Left Back Pain in Mitral Valve Prolapse Patients
Understanding HIV Antigen Testing: Clarifying Misconceptions and Feedback
Continuation #177811 HIV Infection Doctor, you explained everything very clearly and responded quite quickly. I really want to give you a five-star rating for both satisfaction and response, but I accidentally submitted the wrong rating due to my clumsiness. I wonder if there is ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the HIV virus cannot survive outside of cells for an extended period on surfaces like test strips. Most cells die quickly, making it difficult for the virus to remain viable, so it has almost no infectious potential. Thank you for your inquiry regarding satisfaction; I app...[Read More] Understanding HIV Antigen Testing: Clarifying Misconceptions and Feedback