Can NSAIDs Alone Relieve Back Pain in Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Does taking NSAIDs always relieve back pain in ankylosing spondylitis? Hello, Dr. Gao. My son is 19 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for three years. He has undergone relevant blood tests and MRI scans, and the rheumatologist confirmed the diagnosis. I...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Regarding the back pain from ankylosing spondylitis, is it true that taking NSAIDs combined with appropriate exercise will definitely relieve the pain? Are there cases of more severe ankylosing spondylitis where pain...[Read More] Can NSAIDs Alone Relieve Back Pain in Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Next Steps
Elevated white blood cell count? Hello, doctor. First, I would like to inform you that I am a patient with myasthenia gravis. I am currently taking four tablets of Mestinon daily and one tablet of Anspine weekly. Here are my questions: Since mid-September, I have been infected wi...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, we are currently in the era of COVID-19, so it is essential to rule out this possibility by conducting a self-administered rapid test and receiving the COVID-19 vaccine (at least four doses are recommended). 2. Secondly, the side effects of medications should also be c...[Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Next Steps
Do Rheumatologists and Orthopedists Interpret X-rays Differently?
Is there a difference between a rheumatologist and an orthopedic surgeon when interpreting bone X-rays? Dear Dr. Gao, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. Recently, I have developed pain in my lower back when leaning backward, but I do not experience pain when bending for...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Can a general rheumatologist identify signs of a mild spinal arch fracture on an X-ray? (Isn't it more likely for an orthopedic surgeon to interpret bone X-rays?) --> I believe both specialties can, as well a...[Read More] Do Rheumatologists and Orthopedists Interpret X-rays Differently?
How to Help Someone Choking on Saliva: Emergency Tips for Families
Choking on saliva? Hello, after an elder in the family choked on saliva, they coughed violently until their face turned red, then their eyes rolled back and they fainted, becoming limp and unresponsive in the chair. Fortunately, after several seconds, they finally regained consci...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that if elderly individuals have excessive saliva, they should lie on their side to allow the saliva to flow out, which can help prevent choking. Additionally, you can prepare a pulse oximeter at home to monitor the oxygen levels of the elderly. You may a...[Read More] How to Help Someone Choking on Saliva: Emergency Tips for Families
Chronic Tongue Pain: Understanding Possible Causes and Solutions
Immune system Hello doctor, my issue is that the back and side of my tongue on the right side hurts, and the front feels prickly and numb. This has been going on for over a year. I have seen countless specialists in otolaryngology, oral pathology, oral and maxillofacial surgery, ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I suggest you first consult with a neurologist. It is likely not closely related to immune function. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.[Read More] Chronic Tongue Pain: Understanding Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Back Pain Patterns in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Key Symptoms and Management
Experiencing pain when extending the lower back but not when bending forward is a typical symptom of ankylosing spondylitis? Dear Dr. Gao, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis and have been experiencing symptoms for over two years. Initially, I only had pain in my buttocks...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Are my symptoms (pain in the lower back when arching, no pain when bending forward) typical symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis? --> No. 2) If it is not a typical symptom, would Dr. Gao recommend that I see a reh...[Read More] Understanding Back Pain Patterns in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Key Symptoms and Management
Understanding COVID-19 Diagnosis and Isolation: Key Questions Answered
Some issues related to COVID-19 diagnosis? I'm sorry, but I don't know which specialty to ask. On the afternoon of October 14th, I suddenly felt a strong urge to cough, and it was severe. Even after getting home from work that night, I took a rapid test which came back ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It is advisable to maintain a proper distance for the time being, as there may still be a low viral load present. 2. Yes, that's correct. When the viral load is low, there is a possibility of false negatives. 3. No, currently other diseases do not cause false p...[Read More] Understanding COVID-19 Diagnosis and Isolation: Key Questions Answered
Is Your Back Pain After Surgery a Side Effect of Spinal Anesthesia?
Which department should I see? Hello doctor, I underwent a bunion surgery on my fifth toe in January and July, both under spinal anesthesia. Several months have passed, and I often feel lower back soreness and pain. Could this be a side effect of the spinal anesthesia? Thank you,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the likelihood of the issue being caused by anesthesia is low. It is more likely related to spinal or muscular problems. I recommend that you schedule an appointment with an orthopedic specialist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Is Your Back Pain After Surgery a Side Effect of Spinal Anesthesia?
Concerns About Infection After Blood Test and Allergic Reaction
Hello, I would like to inquire about infection issues? On the morning of September 3rd, around 10 AM, I had a blood test for a gynecological check-up. In the afternoon, I noticed itching on the back of my hand. I went to the pharmacy, explained the situation, and bought an ointme...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
A. According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infec...[Read More] Concerns About Infection After Blood Test and Allergic Reaction
Understanding Thyroid Function: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
Hyperthyroidism issues? Hello, doctor. Last week, my blood test results came back as follows: Ant-TPO: greater than 600, Ant-Tg: 351.6, Thyroglobulin: 0.34, TSH: 4.18, T4: 0.69. I would like to inquire what these values indicate regarding whether the medication is effectively con...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
The normal ranges for thyroid function tests may vary slightly among different testing laboratories, so it is necessary to return to the original healthcare facility to confirm the interpretation.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Function: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
Understanding Dizziness After Sudden Movements: When to Seek Medical Advice
Please ask your question? I apologize for bothering you, doctor, but I have a question. I was lying down playing on my phone when my grandmother suddenly needed to use the bathroom and called for my help. I rushed over, and after standing up, I suddenly felt dizzy and unsteady fo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the conditions you mentioned are referred to as "orthostatic hypotension," which occurs when there is a significant change in body posture and the cardiovascular system is unable to adequately adjust, resulting in temporary low blood pressure. It is recommended t...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness After Sudden Movements: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Neck Pain: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Neck pain issues? Hello, I would like to ask the doctor about something. This morning, while I was working in my usual office administrative role, where I frequently use the computer, I suddenly felt a tightness and pain in the left back of my neck for a brief moment. It lasted a...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that prolonged immobility in a certain posture has led to muscle tension. I recommend incorporating regular movement into your work routine to prevent this issue. If the muscle tightness persists without improvement, it may be necessary ...[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
COVID-19 Transmission Concerns: Safety Tips for Healthcare Workers
Transmission of COVID-19 Hello Doctor: Due to work, I come into contact with 3-4 clients daily who are not wearing masks (each interaction lasts about 20 minutes), as well as colleagues. Since I have a one-year-old child at home, my current practice is to spray alcohol all over m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The primary mode of virus transmission is through hand contact with surfaces or shaking hands, so handwashing is the most important measure; other forms of exposure are not as significant. 2. The situation you mentioned has a low risk of infection. 3. When outdoors with...[Read More] COVID-19 Transmission Concerns: Safety Tips for Healthcare Workers
Persistent Skin Rashes: Allergies or Immune System Issues?
Environmental stimuli and mosquito bites causing a rash that has not improved over time? Hello, I would like to ask about my friend who is 27 years old. In July, he worked in a central kitchen, which is a humid and hot environment, handling food while wearing gloves. After just s...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. My answer is as follows: Q: I would like to ask if this is considered an immune system issue? Because he only develops new red rashes on his right arm where he was bitten by mosquitoes initially, and it's not without reason that the rash...[Read More] Persistent Skin Rashes: Allergies or Immune System Issues?
Understanding Unexplained Body Heat: When to Seek Medical Help
There is always a sense of heat within the body? Hello, doctor. For the past ten days, I have been feeling a constant sensation of heat in my body, although my temperature readings are normal. I often feel a wave of heat throughout the day, and my toes and the soles of my feet fe...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to first consult a Western medicine physician to check for any endocrine issues, such as thyroid or adrenal gland problems. You can make an appointment with the Family Medicine or Metabolism department. If these tests are normal, then you can consider con...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Body Heat: When to Seek Medical Help
Sudden Back Pain and Nausea: When to Seek Medical Help?
Sudden lower back pain accompanied by nausea? Hello doctor, I urgently need advice. My girlfriend woke up that morning with lower back pain and discomfort. When she got to work, she started vomiting and even vomited blood. Later, she felt like she had a fever. At that moment, she...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If you have symptoms such as fever, lower back pain, and vomiting blood, you should go to the emergency room immediately to determine the cause. Thank you for your message![Read More] Sudden Back Pain and Nausea: When to Seek Medical Help?
Understanding Loud Breathing: Causes and When to Seek Help
Regarding respiratory issues? Hello, doctor. I have a question. Sometimes my breathing sounds very loud (not during sleep). It's like after normal breathing, there will suddenly be a loud exhalation, and it feels like I have a tightness in my chest and can't breathe out...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Regarding respiratory sounds, being overweight can cause airway compression, which may lead to wheezing or audible breathing. If you are feeling very uncomfortable, you can visit an outpatient clinic for an X-ray to confirm that your lungs are in good condition. If it...[Read More] Understanding Loud Breathing: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Cloudy Urine: When to Seek Medical Advice
Urinary issues Hello, I would like to ask if it is normal for my morning urine to be cloudy for a period of time. A few days ago, I had a routine check-up (with a morning urine sample), and the results showed yellow, cloudy urine with a pH of 8.5. I went for further urine testing...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, when you mention cloudy urine, are you referring to a darker color or the presence of suspended particles and sediment? If it's a darker color, along with your urine test report, it suggests that you may be dehydrated, leading to concentrated urine. I recommend increa...[Read More] Understanding Cloudy Urine: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Kidney Pain: Causes and Remedies After Hair Dyeing
Kidney pain I recently experienced pain in my right abdomen after dyeing my hair. I didn't have this pain often before, and although there are no stones seen in the imaging, I wonder if dyeing my hair back to black would alleviate the pain. I also heard that someone in my gr...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, the abdominal pain you are experiencing is likely unrelated to hair dyeing. There are many potential causes for right-sided abdominal pain, with kidney stones or renal issues being just a few of them. If the pain does not improve, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterol...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Pain: Causes and Remedies After Hair Dyeing
Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect CEA Levels in Blood Tests?
Does rheumatoid arthritis affect CEA? Hello, my mother experienced lower back pain and underwent an ultrasound in the nephrology department, which revealed a shadow on her liver. A blood test was then arranged, and her CEA level was found to be 1119, which is extremely high. Howe...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Psoriatic arthritis should not affect CEA levels. It is recommended to investigate the reasons for the elevated levels, particularly concerning the gastrointestinal tract. This is from the Department of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology at C...[Read More] Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect CEA Levels in Blood Tests?