Understanding Uneven Black Spots on the Body: Causes and Next Steps
Unevenly sized black spots on the body? Dear Dr. Tseng: My second brother has developed various sizes of black spots on his chest and back. The skin is rough, and there is no pain or itching, but the spots are increasing in number. The dermatologist said it is neither a skin issu...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, internet user: If you notice black spots of various sizes on your skin, it is generally advisable to consult a dermatologist. If the clinic is unable to provide a definitive diagnosis, it is recommended to refer you to a hospital dermatology department that can perform a s...[Read More] Understanding Uneven Black Spots on the Body: Causes and Next Steps
Is It Enterovirus? Understanding Symptoms and Diagnosis
Is it an enterovirus? Hello, doctor: Last week, I had a continuous fever of about 40 degrees Celsius for several days, and my throat showed the following symptoms: https://imgur.com/hKPJaih. I would like to ask the doctor: 1. Does the photo indicate pharyngitis? 2. Given the cont...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the typical common symptoms of enterovirus: (1) Hand, foot, and mouth disease: fever or mild fever, with scattered, non-painful, non-itchy, non-crusted, non-scarring small, elongated, light red rashes or small vesicular lesions on the palms (Figur...[Read More] Is It Enterovirus? Understanding Symptoms and Diagnosis
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
Risk of HIV and Hepatitis Infection from Haircut: What You Need to Know
Infection issues I would like to ask, today I went for a haircut, and because I had a pimple on the back of my neck, the barber accidentally broke it open with the electric clipper while trimming my hair, causing it to bleed. If the clipper had come into contact with the blood of...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding whether popping pimples on the back of the neck that bleed can lead to infection: (1) The infection rates for HIV, HBV, and HCV are approximately 1:10:100. (2) In fact, the likelihood of infection from skin bacteria, such as Staphylococcus and...[Read More] Risk of HIV and Hepatitis Infection from Haircut: What You Need to Know
Understanding HbA1c Results: Do You Have Diabetes?
Revisiting the second question - Dr. Hsiang-Yung Hsiao? Hello, Doctor! I recently had my hemoglobin A1c tested, and the result was 6.5% (I did not test fasting and postprandial blood glucose). I would like to ask if I have officially been diagnosed with diabetes. My previous hemo...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
It is advisable to discuss your concerns with your physician; an HbA1c of 6.5% is already close to diabetes. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to dietary control and avoid excessive intake; regular exercise is also important.[Read More] Understanding HbA1c Results: Do You Have Diabetes?
Understanding HbA1c Results: Do I Have Diabetes?
What are the issues related to diabetes? Hello, Doctor! I recently had my hemoglobin A1c tested, and the report showed 6.5% (I did not test fasting and postprandial blood glucose). I would like to ask if I have officially been diagnosed with diabetes. Previously, my hemoglobin A1...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, the onset of type 2 diabetes is gradual and is associated with factors such as genetics, weight, lack of exercise, overeating, alcohol abuse, and medication. Your weight of 113 kilograms is indeed a risk factor for developing the disease; moreover, the longer one is...[Read More] Understanding HbA1c Results: Do I Have Diabetes?
Is Right Side Back Pain Related to Stomach Issues? A Doctor's Insight
Is the pain on the right side of the waist related to stomach pain? Hello Doctor: I experience stomach pain almost every month, primarily in the middle of my abdomen and on the right side of my lower back, with the pain alternating between these areas. The pain usually starts aro...
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
You should see a doctor; it's advisable to consult a gastroenterologist first. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Is Right Side Back Pain Related to Stomach Issues? A Doctor's Insight
Do Birds Transmit Rabies? What to Do After a Bird Peck Injury
Bird peck injury? Hello, doctor: I was pecked on the hand by a green-backed tit. Can birds transmit rabies? Do I need to get a rabies vaccine? Thank you very much for your response!
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Liu: The rabies virus primarily affects warm-blooded mammals, including dogs, cats, wolves, foxes, pigs, monkeys, rodents (such as mice and squirrels), and humans. Therefore, bites or pecks from birds do not cause rabies, and there have been no reported cases of such. ...[Read More] Do Birds Transmit Rabies? What to Do After a Bird Peck Injury
Understanding Basophil Counts: What Do Your Blood Test Results Mean?
Eosinophilia typically indicates? (The first part was sent prematurely and is incomplete.) Hello, Doctor. I apologize for sending the previous message before I finished typing. I would like to ask: The results of my health check-up at Taichung City Hospital at the end of 2012 sho...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Regarding your white blood cell differential count, the total white blood cell count is normal, with a slightly elevated percentage of basophils and a slightly decreased hemoglobin level in red blood cells, which should be considered normal variations. There is no evidence of ...[Read More] Understanding Basophil Counts: What Do Your Blood Test Results Mean?
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 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 Moon Facies: Possible Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
What diseases can cause an unusually round and swollen face (similar to a full moon face)? I am a 22-year-old male, and recently while organizing old photos, I noticed that my face appears disproportionately swollen compared to my BMI. I am 175 cm tall and weigh 80 kg. I collecte...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Mr. Kobayashi: 1. Regarding kidney diseases, blood tests and urinalysis can be used for screening, and sometimes additional imaging studies such as ultrasound may be performed to assist in diagnosis and treatment. If, as you mentioned, you only have kidney stones (and ele...[Read More] Understanding Moon Facies: Possible Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
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 Proteinuria in Teenagers: Causes and Concerns
Dear Doctor, why do I easily have proteinuria? Hello, I am a 17-year-old male. I have been experiencing proteinuria (+~++) for about a year. During this time, I have visited three major hospitals for diagnosis. I have undergone blood tests to assess kidney function and a 24-hour ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello, I am a nephrologist who relies on "tests (blood and urine tests, X-rays)" and "machines (dialysis machines)" to make a living... This is purely a joke (any resemblance is coincidental), but it does highlight the concerns of nephrologists and patients wi...[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria in Teenagers: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Inflammatory Back Pain: Is It Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask about my HLA-B27 test result, which came back negative, but X-rays show inflammation in my sacroiliac joints, approximately at a grade two level on both sides. Does this mean I have ankylosing spondylitis? Although I don&#...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, online user: Inflammation of the bilateral sacroiliac joints, combined with morning lower back pain, raises the suspicion of ankylosing spondylitis. However, it is still recommended to consult a rheumatologist for further differential diagnosis. Most patients experience li...[Read More] Understanding Inflammatory Back Pain: Is It Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding Right Flank Discomfort: Kidney or Gastrointestinal Issues?
Right posterior flank? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing a dull, pressure-like sensation in the right side of my lower back, sometimes in the right flank. It feels uncomfortable when sitting down, but it’s not painful. This has been going on for over a week. I fee...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Recently, I have been experiencing a feeling of heaviness and pressure in the right side of my lower back, sometimes in the right flank, especially when sitting down. There is no pain, and these symptoms have persisted for over a week. I feel more comfortable when standing. Gener...[Read More] Understanding Right Flank Discomfort: Kidney or Gastrointestinal Issues?
Understanding Bruising on Limbs: Causes and When to Seek Help
Bruising on the limbs? Dear Dr. Chen, I have been taking medication for hypertension for a long time, but about two months ago, I started noticing bruises the size of a ten-dollar coin appearing on my limbs. They are not painful and disappear in about one to two weeks. However, ...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello, Gui Xiang. Your bruising could have various causes, so it's best to consult a family physician for long-term follow-up and examination. Thank you for your message.[Read More] Understanding Bruising on Limbs: Causes and When to Seek Help
Chronic Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers Beyond Gastrointestinal Issues
I'm not sure where the problem is? Hello Doctor: I have been suffering from prolonged abdominal pain for many years. Especially in the past year, I have been experiencing pain around my navel! Every morning when I wake up, it feels like a pain from coughing for a long time! ...
Dr. Lin Shunfa Reply:
Dear Butterfly, regarding your abdominal pain and bowel movement issues, you may want to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation and treatment.[Read More] Chronic Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers Beyond Gastrointestinal Issues
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