Ankylosing Spondylitis or Spinal Degeneration: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Ankylosing spondylitis or spinal degeneration? Hello Doctor: I am the one who previously asked about my case in <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/200623">#200623</a>. My blood test and MRI reports have come back. The blood test report (as mentioned by the ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I previously had an X-ray in the immunology department that showed a slight inflammation in the right sacroiliac joint (there was a bit of whiteness, but it was not obvious). However, the MRI report from the rehabili...[Read More] Ankylosing Spondylitis or Spinal Degeneration: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Concerns About Superbug Infections in Home Environments
Concerns about superbug infections? Hello Dr. Lin, In my household, the elderly family members are accustomed to wearing outdoor shoes inside the house, except in the bedroom. Recently, an elderly family member returned home from the hospital and, unbeknownst to the family, wal...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
The term "superbugs" does not refer to bacteria that are particularly virulent, but rather to those that have multiple drug resistances. Therefore, if they cause a more severe infection, it can be difficult to treat in the absence of effective antibiotics, posing a sign...[Read More] Concerns About Superbug Infections in Home Environments
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello, doctor. I am 42 years old and have been experiencing occasional dull pain in my sacroiliac joint for the past six months. I have seen both orthopedic and rehabilitation specialists without any improvement. One day, I woke up at 4 AM due ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Am I certain that I have ankylosing spondylitis? --> Currently, the diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis requires not only blood tests but also clinical symptoms. The absence of nighttime back pain is somewhat unusu...[Read More] Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Understanding Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Blood Tests and Symptoms Explained
Rheumatoid-related inquiries? Hello, Dr. Gao. I previously asked you about rheumatoid-related issues (pain in both wrists) on September 11. The blood test results are out, and I also had an X-ray of my hands. The rheumatologist said there were no issues. I would like to ask you a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: Question 1: In the case of early rheumatoid arthritis, is it possible for blood test results to be normal and X-rays to show no signs? --> Yes, that can happen. Question 2: What does the quantitative result in the b...[Read More] Understanding Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Blood Tests and Symptoms Explained
Understanding Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Next Steps
Suspected ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, I am 28 years old. Initially, six months ago, after a full-body adjustment, I started experiencing stiffness and pain in my back upon waking up, particularly in the upper back (with no issues in the lower back). After stretching in...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Do I have ankylosing spondylitis? --> It would be helpful to check for HLA-B27. Your symptoms have persisted for a while, and chronic lower back pain in young individuals warrants caution regarding ankylosing spondy...[Read More] Understanding Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Symptoms: Is It Multiple Sclerosis or Spinal Issues?
Possible Multiple Sclerosis Hello, doctor. I am a patient with ulcerative colitis, which is currently under control. My colonoscopy showed that the mucosa has healed. I unexpectedly discovered a mild positive result in my cryoglobulin test after being diagnosed with COVID-19. The...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe there is a higher likelihood of cervical spine compression. If you are concerned about multiple sclerosis, it would be advisable to have an evaluation by a neurologist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua H...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Is It Multiple Sclerosis or Spinal Issues?
Understanding Symptoms: Is It Multiple Sclerosis or Spinal Issues?
Possible Multiple Sclerosis Hello, doctor. I am a patient with ulcerative colitis, which is currently under control, and my colonoscopy showed that the mucosa has healed. I unexpectedly discovered a mild positive result in my cryoglobulin test after being diagnosed with COVID-19....
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe there is a higher likelihood of cervical spine compression. If you are concerned about multiple sclerosis, it would be advisable to have an evaluation by a neurologist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Changhua H...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Is It Multiple Sclerosis or Spinal Issues?
Should I Continue Taking Celebrex After 25 Days with No Improvement?
I have been taking Silhouette for 25 days with no results. Should I continue taking Silhouette? Hello Dr. Gao, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I am currently undergoing treatment with 2 tablets of Celebrex daily, and my inflammation markers are within the normal range...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I recommend that you take the medication for a full 28 days. If you still do not see any improvement, please consult your physician for a medication adjustment. This approach not only allows for a longer evaluation period of the anti-inflammato...[Read More] Should I Continue Taking Celebrex After 25 Days with No Improvement?
Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Inquiry about Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello, Doctor. Over the past two to three years, I have frequently experienced skin allergies (rashes). When I am back in my hometown (Miaoli), my condition improves significantly during my vacation, but it immediately relapses when I return to ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. For someone like me who experiences long-term allergies that recur, could it be due to environmental factors, stress, or irregular lifestyle? What should I pay attention to or how can I improve? --> All three fact...[Read More] Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever in Teenagers: Causes and Solutions
Elevated body temperature? Hello, my daughter is 14 years old and recently her body temperature has been between 37.5 to 38 degrees Celsius. Previously, her temperature was mostly around 36.6 degrees. She does not have any discomfort, and when her temperature reaches 38 degrees, ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, previously my body temperature was around 36.6°C, but recently it has been between 37.5°C and 38°C. If it's not due to my menstrual cycle and I'm not feeling unwell, it shouldn't be related to the weather. I recommend seeing a pediatric infectious disease sp...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever in Teenagers: Causes and Solutions
Should I Continue Taking Celebrex for Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Should I continue taking Xarelto? Hello Dr. Tseng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I am currently undergoing stable treatment with two tablets of Celebrex daily, and my inflammatory markers are within the normal range. My current symptoms only include about one hour o...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The user has been taking the medication continuously for 26 days, but feels that there has been no improvement in morning stiffness and back pain. It is recommended to return for an evaluation to determine if the medication is ineffective, in which case a change in medication may...[Read More] Should I Continue Taking Celebrex for Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding Morning Stiffness and Pain in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Is this morning stiffness (and pain) a symptom of ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Dr. Tseng, both my son and I have been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis by rheumatologists, but I find it quite peculiar that our experiences of morning stiffness are completely different. When I...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Morning stiffness in ankylosing spondylitis refers to the stiffness experienced upon waking and moving, whether bending forward or arching backward. The severity of stiffness varies among individuals, but it typically improves after a period of activity. If your symptoms are rela...[Read More] Understanding Morning Stiffness and Pain in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Understanding Your Health Issues: Symptoms and Solutions for Better Wellness
Recently, I have been experiencing a lot of health issues? Hello Doctor, since the beginning of this summer, I have been feeling excessively hot and sweating profusely even with slight exercise. I have also been experiencing recurrent infections in my intimate area (itching and d...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Due to the symptoms involving multiple organ systems, it is recommended to visit a large hospital and consult with a family medicine specialist for a systematic examination. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Your Health Issues: Symptoms and Solutions for Better Wellness
Understanding Morning Stiffness in Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Parent-Child Perspective
Is this morning stiffness (and pain) a symptom of ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Dr. Gao, both my son and I have been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis by rheumatologists, but I find it quite peculiar that our experiences of morning stiffness are completely different. When I w...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The significance of morning stiffness lies in the joint stiffness and pain that occurs after rest, particularly following sleep, but improves with activity. Therefore, the presentation of stiffness and pain can vary, potentially affecting the r...[Read More] Understanding Morning Stiffness in Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Parent-Child Perspective
Understanding Sacroiliac Joint Issues: Is It Always an Autoimmune Disease?
Ankylosing spondylitis 1. The patient recently underwent an X-ray examination due to lower back pain, which revealed structural damage to the sacroiliac joint. The doctor suspects ankylosing spondylitis, but blood tests returned negative for the associated gene, with inflammatory...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
1. Issues with the sacroiliac joint are not solely caused by autoimmune diseases; differential diagnosis is necessary. 2. Generally, back pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis responds well to treatment; if the response is poor, other causes of back pain should be consider...[Read More] Understanding Sacroiliac Joint Issues: Is It Always an Autoimmune Disease?
Managing Excessive Sweating and Heat Sensation in Diabetes Patients
Chest heat or chest discomfort? Hello doctor, I have type 2 diabetes, and about three years ago, I started experiencing night sweats while covered with a blanket during winter (mostly concentrated in the chest and back). In recent months, I have been able to clearly feel a wave o...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello, since the symptoms you described are non-specific, it is recommended to consult a family medicine physician first.[Read More] Managing Excessive Sweating and Heat Sensation in Diabetes Patients
Understanding Behçet's Disease: Symptoms and Diagnosis in Adults
Behçet's disease? Hello, doctor. I am a 43-year-old male. Previously, I experienced some issues with my glans and foreskin; when I tried to retract the foreskin to clean the glans, it would sometimes cause minor tears, but this would heal after a while. This symptom occurred...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The oral mucosal ulcers associated with Behçet's disease, similar to thrush, often occur in multiple locations, and the ulcers in the genital area are also similar. Based on your symptoms, it seems unlikely to be Behçet's disease. Addi...[Read More] Understanding Behçet's Disease: Symptoms and Diagnosis in Adults
Distinguishing Between Immune Issues and Menopause Symptoms at 50
How to distinguish between immune issues and menopausal symptoms? Hello, Doctor. I am 50 years and 6 months old. My menstrual cycle was regular until December of last year when it suddenly stopped. Before March of this year, I experienced insomnia, excessive sweating, frequent co...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: (1) What tests should be done to confirm if there is inflammation or adhesion in the spine? --> X-rays and blood tests are sufficient. If necessary, an MRI may also be arranged. Your physician may have started treatm...[Read More] Distinguishing Between Immune Issues and Menopause Symptoms at 50
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms and Diagnostic Insights
Rheumatoid Arthritis? Hello, doctor. I tend to worry a lot about my health. Following my last examination, the results showed positive cryoglobulin test IgM (1+), positive fibrinogen RF 13.92 (normal range 0-6), Anti-CCP <4.6 (normal range 0-20), and E.C.P 38.8 (normal range 0...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Based on your symptoms, I don't believe it resembles rheumatoid arthritis. Firstly, your rheumatoid factor (RF) is not significantly elevated, and your anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) levels are normal. Additionally, your symp...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms and Diagnostic Insights
Does Ulcerative Colitis Affect Immunoglobulin Levels and Cancer Risk?
Does ulcerative colitis have an impact? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ulcerative colitis, which is currently under control. A colonoscopy in May showed that my mucosa has almost healed. Recently, due to immune-related issues, my blood test showed positive cold agglutinins wit...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The likelihood of ulcerative colitis being associated with cryoglobulinemia is quite low. Although there are sporadic case reports, I am somewhat skeptical about the correlation between these two conditions; generally, the chances are minimal, ...[Read More] Does Ulcerative Colitis Affect Immunoglobulin Levels and Cancer Risk?