Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and Insights from Recent Cases
Abdominal issues? Hello, Doctor: At the beginning of January, one night I suddenly experienced pain in my side and back. Since I had been in contact with a patient with chickenpox, I suspected it might be due to shingles. However, after receiving a shot in the emergency room, it ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the symptoms you described are relatively vague, making it difficult to determine a diagnosis. Based on your description, the most likely possibility is a muscle strain. However, other potential issues could involve the heart, stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, or smal...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and Insights from Recent Cases
Understanding Thyroid Issues: Should You Get Further Testing?
Thyroid issues Recently, I had a blood test for my thyroid due to issues with hand tremors, and my TSH level came back slightly low. Do I need to get further testing? I have been experiencing persistent low-grade fever, fatigue, insomnia, irritability, reduced menstrual flow, and...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Further related tests for the thyroid gland can be conducted.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Issues: Should You Get Further Testing?
Can Scratches Lead to Infection? Understanding Risks of STDs and Hepatitis
The issue of abrasions? Hello, while I was grocery shopping with my family, I accidentally got scratched on my hand by a key or something from the back pocket of a vegetable vendor. I'm concerned about the possibility of contracting any STDs, hepatitis B, or HIV from this. T...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, a minor abrasion on the skin surface is unlikely to lead to the transmission of sexually transmitted infections, so you do not need to worry. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can Scratches Lead to Infection? Understanding Risks of STDs and Hepatitis
Understanding Testicular Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Abdominal issues? On December 8, I visited a clinic in Tainan due to left testicular pain. The doctor prescribed medication, but after three days of taking it, there was no improvement. On December 12, during a follow-up visit, I asked the doctor if it could be a varicocele. The ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, your abdominal symptoms seem to be more indicative of gastrointestinal motility disorders. It is recommended that you visit a gastroenterology specialist for further evaluation. Additionally, regarding your inquiry about whether surgery for varic...[Read More] Understanding Testicular Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Understanding HIV Infection Risks: Common Concerns and Prevention
HIV infection Doctor, I apologize, but I have two questions to address. 1. Today, while moving a car with the assistance of a colleague, his fingernail accidentally cut my finger, resulting in slight bleeding. I did not pay particular attention to whether my colleague's fi...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. There should be no fresh blood or bodily fluids on the fingers, so I believe there is no need for concern. 2. Saliva stringing is essentially impossible to bounce back from the farthest point (it only snaps back from the middle), so there is basically no risk. If only the abov...[Read More] Understanding HIV Infection Risks: Common Concerns and Prevention
Concerns About COVID-19 After Mask Mishap: What You Should Know
COVID-19 pandemic Hello, I just finished my college entrance exam and was taken by my family to a department store for a meal. I accidentally touched the inside of my mask against my jacket after removing it. Later, I put the mask back on because I didn't have another one av...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you described is unlikely to lead to a COVID-19 infection, and symptoms would not typically develop within an hour. Therefore, there is no need to worry at this moment. You can seek medical attention only if you experience symptoms later. Thank you for your q...[Read More] Concerns About COVID-19 After Mask Mishap: What You Should Know
Understanding Low TSH Levels: Should You Be Concerned?
Low TSH levels? Hello, doctor! A few years ago, I had a cold and visited a traditional Chinese medicine clinic. After taking my pulse, the practitioner suggested that I might have hyperthyroidism. I then went to a large hospital to see an endocrinologist, and my blood test result...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
You can retest in three months. If both TSH levels are low, it may indicate thyroid autoimmunity. Additionally, you can test for TSH receptor antibodies; if abnormal, it may suggest Graves' disease.[Read More] Understanding Low TSH Levels: Should You Be Concerned?
Understanding Side Pain: Kidney Issues or Muscle Strain?
Two questions? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask about some symptoms I experienced after waking up yesterday. I feel a slight pain on both sides of my lower back, and I'm wondering if this could indicate a kidney issue or if it's more likely related to muscle strain. I...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the lower back pain is likely caused by a muscle strain in the lumbar region, which is usually due to improper posture. It is uncertain whether it is related to masturbation, but it should not be related to kidney stones. I recommend allowing you...[Read More] Understanding Side Pain: Kidney Issues or Muscle Strain?
Concerns About Needle Exposure and Infection Risks in Hospitals
Possible hospital needle stick injury 1. Today at the hospital, I saw a patient with something like a needle and a tube on the back of his hand. He brushed past me very closely, and I wanted to ask if the tube on his hand could potentially puncture my hand, or if coming into cont...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. There are too many variables in hypothetical questions, which may make them difficult to answer. 2. Cancer cells are not contagious, so there is no need to worry. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Concerns About Needle Exposure and Infection Risks in Hospitals
Understanding HIV Infection Risks: Common Concerns and Misconceptions
HIV infection 1. Today, while moving a car with the assistance of a colleague, their fingernail accidentally cut my finger, causing slight bleeding. I did not pay particular attention to whether my colleague's fingers had any blood or bodily fluids. Is there a risk of HIV in...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the three situations you described do not pose a risk for HIV infection, so there is no need to worry. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding HIV Infection Risks: Common Concerns and Misconceptions
Can You Contract HIV from Contaminated Saliva? Understanding the Risks
HIV infection Doctor, I apologize for bothering you, but I would like to ask a question. Today, I had phlegm in my mouth, and when I spat it into a roadside drain, my saliva got pulled back into my mouth. There was an unknown substance on the drain cover, and since I was outdoors...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the chance of contracting HIV is very low, so there is no need to be overly afraid. If you are still concerned or have symptoms, you can get tested. According to current testing methods, the window period is usually around 3 months. Thank you for...[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from Contaminated Saliva? Understanding the Risks
Understanding STD Testing: Key Questions and Concerns Explained
Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing Issues (Continued) Hello Doctor, I have some follow-up questions regarding the STI testing 164238... 1. For infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HPV, if there are no symptoms, can they still be detected in tests? (I read in the literatu...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Gonorrhea is primarily diagnosed based on symptoms and culture of secretions, while condyloma acuminatum (genital warts) is mainly diagnosed by appearance. If there are no symptoms, it can be difficult to make a diagnosis. Chlamydia relies on symptoms and laboratory t...[Read More] Understanding STD Testing: Key Questions and Concerns Explained
Understanding Common Concerns About Genital Health and Anatomy
Genital issues Hello, Doctor. A few days ago, I visited a urologist and discovered for the first time that the foreskin can be retracted for cleaning. After cleaning, I noticed a small, not very noticeable fold or a round spot on the glans. The doctor said it was normal sebaceous...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, whether there is a lump can only be determined through direct palpation. It is recommended to consult a urology clinic. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Common Concerns About Genital Health and Anatomy
Understanding Skin Rashes and Health Concerns in Young Adults
Please ask your question? Hello, I previously visited a urologist because I am still a virgin and have no experience with sexual activities. The doctor mentioned that the most likely cause of my issue was bathing in hot springs, as I go twice a month, or it could be due to poor h...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the situation you described, it is likely that you are experiencing folliculitis. As for sexually transmitted infections, if you have not engaged in sexual activity, it is almost impossible for you to contract an STI, so there is no need to worry. Thank you for yo...[Read More] Understanding Skin Rashes and Health Concerns in Young Adults
Understanding Occasional Back Pain When Sleeping on Your Side
Sometimes, sleeping on your side can cause back pain? Sometimes when I sleep on my side, I experience back pain, although it doesn't happen very often. What could this condition be?
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: We may need more detailed information to assist in making a preliminary assessment, such as whether there are any obvious tender points, if there have been any recent injuries, which specific part of the back is in pain, and whether it is related to muscle exertion, etc. T...[Read More] Understanding Occasional Back Pain When Sleeping on Your Side
Am I at Risk for Diabetes? Understanding Symptoms and Dietary Habits
Am I at risk for diabetes? I am 179 cm tall and weigh 54 kg. Since I contracted pneumonia at the age of 12, I have been experiencing irritable bowel syndrome and fatigue. No matter what I eat, I can't gain weight. After a car accident at 14, I began to show symptoms of traum...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the risk of diabetes is very complex and includes factors such as body composition and genetics, which cannot be generalized. However, it is recommended to reduce the intake of sugary beverages and increase physical activity, as these measures can indeed lower the risk. Ad...[Read More] Am I at Risk for Diabetes? Understanding Symptoms and Dietary Habits
Understanding Post-Choking Discomfort: Is It Aspiration Pneumonia?
Discomfort after choking? Hello, Dr. Hong. Yesterday, on November 30th, while eating Korean hot pot, I accidentally inhaled some soup. Half a day later, I experienced mild pain in my chest and back, a decreased appetite (eating more makes me feel a bit nauseous), and occasional s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that the inflammation in your throat is primarily caused by the broth, and it is unlikely to have resulted in aspiration pneumonia. I recommend continuing to monitor the situation, and seek medical attention only if you experience sympto...[Read More] Understanding Post-Choking Discomfort: Is It Aspiration Pneumonia?
Chronic Abdominal Pain with Chest and Back Discomfort: Possible Causes?
Abdominal pain for several months accompanied by chest and back pain? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing frequent abdominal pain, and sometimes I also have pain in my left chest and left back, accompanied by a burning sensation in my abdomen and back. When I hav...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is indeed most likely caused by gastroesophageal reflux. However, it is important to rule out any cardiac issues, such as cardiovascular problems or aortic issues. If the discomfort persists, I recommend visiting a cardiology clinic for furthe...[Read More] Chronic Abdominal Pain with Chest and Back Discomfort: Possible Causes?
Understanding Lymphedema in Dialysis Patients: Causes and Treatment Options
Lymphedema caused by dialysis? Hello Doctor: My father has a long history of dialysis due to a family history of hereditary diseases. As a result of the dialysis, he frequently experiences various side effects (such as weight loss, dizziness, low blood pressure, nausea, diarrhea,...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Due to the lack of direct examination of the patient, it is difficult to distinguish what you refer to as "lymphedema" from the "general edema" seen in dialysis patients. If it is general edema in dialysis patients, enhancing dehydration should resolve the iss...[Read More] Understanding Lymphedema in Dialysis Patients: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Sudden Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Lumbar issues Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you. Today, while using the restroom, I suddenly experienced a sharp pain on the left side of my back (approximately at the kidney area) halfway through. After finishing, the pain improved somewhat, but I still feel a lingeri...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing an episode of kidney stones. You may want to schedule an appointment with a urologist for further evaluation to clarify your condition. Thank you for your inquiry. The Nephrology Department at Changhua Hospital i...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help