Understanding HIV and HPV Risks: PEP Efficacy and Autoimmune Concerns
HIV infection HPV infection Hello, Doctor. I have a question. After performing oral sex on a woman, I noticed small red spots on my abdomen two days later, which made me very anxious. I quickly went to a clinic and had a blood test for HIV, which came back negative. I started tak...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, let's look at the information about HIV: The HIV virus has three main transmission routes: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluids carries a risk of infec...[Read More] Understanding HIV and HPV Risks: PEP Efficacy and Autoimmune Concerns
Blood Draw Infection Risks: Understanding Safety Protocols in Clinics
Blood draw infection issues? Hello, doctor: (1) Last month, I went to a private laboratory for a blood test. Normally, the procedure is to draw blood first and then pay, but that day I paid first before the blood draw. The technician counted out change for me using seven one-hund...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, it is important to note that the HIV virus can only survive outside the human body for about 10 minutes. Therefore, unless the other person is covered in fresh blood and is in direct contact with your open wound, the risk of infection is very low. If you still have concern...[Read More] Blood Draw Infection Risks: Understanding Safety Protocols in Clinics
Concerns About Starting Uric Acid-Lowering Medication
Questions Before Taking Uric Acid Lowering Medication I have had high uric acid levels for several years. My uric acid level was around 7 during high school, and after starting work, it increased to 8. Recently, during a company health check, it rose to 9. When I go back for my n...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. When starting uric acid-lowering medication, we often combine it with colchicine to prevent gout attacks. Once the uric acid levels have been maintained within the normal range for a period of time, we can gradually discontinue colchicine. This...[Read More] Concerns About Starting Uric Acid-Lowering Medication
Understanding HPV: Can Cervical and Anal Infections Affect Each Other?
Cervical HPV virus and anal HPV virus? Background: There was a previous incident of unprotected anal intercourse. Later, a cervical HPV test showed an infection with HPV type 58, but it has since been treated and resolved. I would like to ask: Can cervical HPV and anal HPV infect...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the HPV virus is a systemic infection that can cross-infect different areas of the body. Additionally, there is currently no cure for HPV once contracted; treatment typically focuses on visible manifestations such as warts and condylomas. However, the virus can still remai...[Read More] Understanding HPV: Can Cervical and Anal Infections Affect Each Other?
Managing Viral Warts and Hemorrhoids: Key Questions Answered
Having viral warts and hemorrhoids? Hello Doctor, about one or two weeks ago, I noticed something on my buttocks and went to see a dermatologist. The doctor said it was a viral wart, which I believe is genital warts. I have undergone one session of cryotherapy and have some quest...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
To encourage men to receive the HPV vaccine, it has been renamed the Papillomavirus vaccine. Generally, adults carry the papillomavirus, but certain strains can lead to cancer or sexually transmitted infections. Therefore, the government encourages both young men and women to get...[Read More] Managing Viral Warts and Hemorrhoids: Key Questions Answered
Is Rapid Weight Loss Normal? Understanding Healthy Weight Fluctuations
Weight loss On December 25, 2023, my weight was 134 pounds, and by January 7, 2024, it had dropped to 129 pounds. Is this rapid weight loss? I started exercising to lose weight on December 25, and initially, the weight dropped quickly. After that, I was losing about 1-2 kilograms...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: If you are eating normally without any special restrictions, losing 1-3 kilograms in a week is not very common. However, it does not necessarily indicate a problem. It is still advisable to consult a physician, especially since you have noticed blood in your stool. Please ...[Read More] Is Rapid Weight Loss Normal? Understanding Healthy Weight Fluctuations
Is Rapid Weight Loss Normal? Understanding Healthy Weight Fluctuations
Weight loss On December 25, 2023, my weight was 134 pounds, and by January 7, 2024, it had dropped to 129 pounds. Is this rapid weight loss? I started exercising to lose weight on December 25, and initially, the weight dropped quickly. After that, I was losing about 1-2 kilograms...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: If you are eating normally without any special restrictions, losing 1-3 kilograms in a week is not very common. However, it doesn't necessarily indicate a problem. It is still advisable to consult a physician, especially since you have noticed blood in your stool. Ple...[Read More] Is Rapid Weight Loss Normal? Understanding Healthy Weight Fluctuations
Understanding Pain After Kidney Biopsy: Causes and Recovery Tips
Kidney biopsy? Hello Dr. Lin, I just had a kidney biopsy this Thursday, and during the 12 hours of lying flat on a sandbag with pressure applied post-procedure, I experienced an unbearable level of soreness. After getting up 12 hours later, the soreness decreased but persisted su...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Most patients experience discomfort or pain in the flank area on the side of the kidney biopsy, which usually resolves within a few days. If there is an increase in pain at the puncture site or the appearance of hematuria, please seek medical attention promptly. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Pain After Kidney Biopsy: Causes and Recovery Tips
Understanding Subtle Body Tremors: Causes and Solutions
There is a slight tremor in the body that is not visible to the naked eye? Since early February, after eating something bad and thinking it was food poisoning, I experienced diarrhea and went to the emergency room. Since then, I have often felt my heart racing, and when I get anx...
Dr. Zhang Shixin Reply:
Hello: In addition to electrolyte abnormalities, endocrine dysfunctions such as hyperthyroidism can also lead to symptoms like tachycardia, elevated blood pressure, diarrhea, and tremors. If your symptoms are affecting your daily life, it is recommended that you follow up with an...[Read More] Understanding Subtle Body Tremors: Causes and Solutions
Could Oral Contact with a Massage Therapist Lead to Infection?
Infection concerns? Hello doctor, I visited a massage parlor on March 1st and licked the massage therapist's nipple. I know this is very unhygienic, but at that moment, due to some issues, I was emotionally unstable and acted foolishly. Starting on the night of March 3rd, I ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
In addition to HIV, there are other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or skin diseases that can be transmitted through contact. HIV is primarily spread through unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing of drug injection needles, and vertical transmission from mother to child, ...[Read More] Could Oral Contact with a Massage Therapist Lead to Infection?
Understanding HIV Testing and Symptoms: What You Need to Know
HIV testing issues? On March 3rd, I engaged in high-risk sexual behavior. On March 12th, I began experiencing symptoms similar to the early stages of an acute infection, with a rash resembling herpes appearing on my temples. By March 13th, I also developed rashes on my body, and ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Please refer to the information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). If you encounter any of the above high-risk situations, you can visit a nearby medical facility for consultation and testing, or you may also perform a rapid test on your own.[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing and Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Understanding Persistent Skin Rashes: Possible Immune System Disorders
Red rashes on the back, posterior legs, arms, and anterior chest, with itching at night that makes it impossible to sleep, and some areas of skin peeling? Since January 2024, the patient has been experiencing symptoms and has visited three clinics where eczema or urticaria was su...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The skin condition described by the netizen seems to be unrelated to the positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer of 1:5120. There may be other autoimmune diseases involved, and it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. It is recommended to first visit a dermatology de...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Skin Rashes: Possible Immune System Disorders
Understanding Sudden Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Chest pain? This morning, while trying to go back to sleep, I suddenly experienced a sharp pain in my heart for just a few seconds. This is the first time it has happened. However, I have been experiencing more frequent sharp pains in my right chest. Since it seems to be a chest ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the description seems more related to muscle or nerve issues rather than the heart itself. Further evaluation is needed to determine the exact problem. It is recommended to consult with a family medicine physician, general internist, or neurologist for assessment.[Read More] Understanding Sudden Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Shin Bone Indentation: Causes and Concerns
Tibial compression issues? Hello Dr. Chang, I have noticed that when I press on my shins, they indent and do not immediately bounce back. I remember that the tibia is mostly skin over bone, but recently I have observed that it looks different than before. When I touched it and pr...
Dr. Zhang Shixin Reply:
Hello Nick: Based on your description, this condition may be lower extremity edema. If the symptoms persist without improvement, it is recommended to visit a nephrology clinic for evaluation. Thank you for your inquiry![Read More] Understanding Shin Bone Indentation: Causes and Concerns
Understanding ANA Test Results: Eczema and Lupus Family History
Inquiry about ANA report? Hello, doctor. Three months ago, I started experiencing a significant rash on my lower back and abdomen. I have seen dermatologists at three different hospitals, and it was ultimately diagnosed as eczema due to a family history of lupus erythematosus on ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
After obtaining a result of 1:80(+) from the test, a direct follow-up test at 1:160 will be conducted. If the 1:160 result is negative, the report will be issued as 1:80. Generally, a result of 1:80 is not considered problematic. It is recommended to consult a rheumatologist for ...[Read More] Understanding ANA Test Results: Eczema and Lupus Family History
Consulting a Doctor: COVID-19 Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Consult a doctor? Hello Doctor, I tested positive for COVID-19 a few days ago and have a few questions. I am currently taking Qingguo No. 1 and have also visited an ENT specialist for medication to treat my sore throat and runny nose. I noticed that my phlegm has been yellow and ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. After several days of forceful coughing, it is normal to have some blood-tinged sputum due to the rupture of small blood vessels in the trachea. However, if there is a significant amount of fresh blood, it is different, and you should seek medical attention. 2. Whether it...[Read More] Consulting a Doctor: COVID-19 Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Accidentally Swallowed Shrimp Shell: Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Ingestion Issues (Small Amount of Shrimp Shell) If you accidentally swallowed a small amount of shrimp shell (due to not peeling it properly and not chewing it thoroughly) and now feel a sensation of something stuck in the back of your mouth, without pain but just an odd feeling,...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I suggest the following: 1. You can drink more water to see if it alleviates the sensation, as it is often caused by foreign substances adhering to the mucous membranes. 2. Sometimes, the sensation of a foreign body may be due to damage to the m...[Read More] Accidentally Swallowed Shrimp Shell: Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Understanding Nerve Pain: Managing Stress-Induced Tingling Sensations
Tingling sensations during times of stress? Doctor, I apologize for the interruption. Over the past year, I have noticed that whenever I experience a certain level of anxiety (which seems to have happened once or twice in my childhood as well), I start to feel localized tingling ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If these symptoms persist, it is advisable to visit a hospital for examination to confirm the diagnosis. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Nerve Pain: Managing Stress-Induced Tingling Sensations
Understanding the Window Period for STI Testing: Your Concerns Addressed
Window period for a ten-in-one STI test? Hello doctor, I had a high-risk sexual encounter on October 9th last year and subsequently contracted Chlamydia, which has made me very worried about the possibility of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). I received treatment and...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Yes. 2. First, maintain personal hygiene and ensure adequate hydration. Next, using condoms during sexual contact with strangers is essential for safe sex.[Read More] Understanding the Window Period for STI Testing: Your Concerns Addressed
Understanding Right Groin Lymphadenopathy: Causes and Next Steps
Right inguinal lymphadenopathy? Hello, doctor. For the past month, I have been experiencing a feeling of heaviness and discomfort in my groin and lower right abdomen, accompanied by lower back pain. I can feel small lymph nodes on the inner side of my right thigh. Three weeks ago...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
You can go for an outpatient evaluation and examination.[Read More] Understanding Right Groin Lymphadenopathy: Causes and Next Steps