Concerns About Cough and Possible STD: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Infection concerns? Hello, doctor. I've been coughing for over a month and was worried about the possibility of an HIV infection, so I went to the infectious disease department and had blood tests done twice, including testing for syphilis. The doctor only told me that I do ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Doxycycline is currently primarily used to treat two types of conditions: 1. It is one of the drug choices for syphilis. 2. It is used to treat certain atypical bacterial infections, such as Mycoplasma infections of the respiratory tract. Since you have some respiratory symptoms ...[Read More] Concerns About Cough and Possible STD: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Understanding Muscle Indentation Above the Tibia: Kidney Health Insights
Depression upon palpation of the muscles above the tibia in the lower leg? Hello Dr. Wu, I apologize for bothering you, but I would like to ask you a question. Recently, I suddenly noticed that when I press on the muscles around my tibia in both calves, they indent and do not bou...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
According to your inquiry, the report you provided shows that urine protein levels are at 568 mg/g, which exceeds the normal value (<150 mg/g). This may require a discussion with a nephrologist regarding treatment options and adherence to a low-protein diet. Regarding the inde...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Indentation Above the Tibia: Kidney Health Insights
Understanding Bone Marrow Suppression and Its Complications After Azathioprine
Subsequent Issues Following Bone Marrow Suppression Induced by Azacitidine Hello, Doctor Gao. In February of this year, I visited the rheumatology and immunology department due to mild vitiligo and alopecia areata. I was prescribed Yasmin for a month, which resulted in significan...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I don't believe it's purpura. The likelihood of lymphoma is very low because your lymph nodes are small. It may be more likely that the side effects of the medication have not completely resolved. Although your platelet count is somew...[Read More] Understanding Bone Marrow Suppression and Its Complications After Azathioprine
Does a Temperature of 37.4 Affect Blood Test Results?
Is a body temperature of 37.4 degrees Celsius acceptable for a medical examination? Recently, antibodies for the Human T-Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV) were detected during blood donation. Yesterday, my body temperature was 37.4°C. I would like to know if this will affect my white blo...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
According to the Taiwan Blood Services Foundation data (https://www.blood.org.tw/Internet/main/docDetail.aspx?uid=7396&pid=6381&docid=29179), the following is an excerpt: 1. Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) is primarily divided into two types: HTLV-I and HTLV-II. 2. HTLV...[Read More] Does a Temperature of 37.4 Affect Blood Test Results?
Is a White Blood Cell Count of 19.5 Indicative of Bacterial Infection?
A white blood cell count of 19.5 may indicate a bacterial infection, but it is not definitive on its own. Elevated white blood cell counts can occur due to various reasons, including infections, inflammation, stress, or other medical conditions. Further evaluation, including clin...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, it's not possible to distinguish this way! The tumor itself can cause an increase in white blood cells and fever, but infections can also do the same. Therefore, it ultimately relies on the clinical judgment of the physician; the laboratory data alone cannot different...[Read More] Is a White Blood Cell Count of 19.5 Indicative of Bacterial Infection?
Understanding the Link Between Ankylosing Spondylitis and Vaccination
The relationship between ankylosing spondylitis and vaccines? Hello Doctor, I am a 51-year-old male patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I received my first dose of the BNT vaccine in October last year and the second dose in January this year. I would like to ask if the symptoms ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Is my chest pain more likely caused by the vaccine or by smoking? --> Ankylosing spondylitis can also cause chest pain, and the likelihood may be higher than the side effects from the vaccine, so it is unlikely to...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Ankylosing Spondylitis and Vaccination
Understanding Thyroid Function: TSH Levels and Health Concerns
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) Hello Doctor, my recent thyroid blood test results are as follows: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH): (Reference range: 0.35-4.94) - 111/3/15: 1.193 IU/ml - 111/4/7: 1.121 IU/ml - 111/5/18: 0.818 IU/ml Free Thyroxine (FT4): (Reference range: 0....
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
1. Currently, it seems unlikely to flare up. 2. There shouldn't be any cause for concern. 3. It's not considered low. 4. This value appears to be normal. 5. They usually occur simultaneously. 6. There won't be any changes in the short term; follow-up is n...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Function: TSH Levels and Health Concerns
Red Spots After Moderna Vaccine: Should You Be Concerned?
Red spots appeared subcutaneously after receiving the Moderna vaccine? Hello Dr. Hong, I received my first dose of the Moderna vaccine on May 14 (Saturday). Since the vaccination until today, May 18 (Wednesday), I have only experienced arm pain and no other side effects. However,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the photo you provided, it appears to be more like skin inflammation rather than bleeding or a blood clot. It is likely caused by contact with an allergen or friction leading to inflammation. Currently, there is no need for medical attention; observation should su...[Read More] Red Spots After Moderna Vaccine: Should You Be Concerned?
Chest Pain in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Which Specialist to See First?
If a patient with ankylosing spondylitis experiences chest pain, they should first consult a rheumatologist? Hello Doctor, I am 51 years old and a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, which I developed at the age of 45. My symptoms initially included only buttock pain and morning...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I recommend seeing a rheumatologist first, as the duration of pain and the pain pattern may resemble that of ankylosing spondylitis, and it could potentially be related to it. If you still have concerns, you can discuss your anxiety about cardi...[Read More] Chest Pain in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Which Specialist to See First?
Unexplained Weight Loss with Normal Thyroid Levels: Possible Causes
Significant weight loss with normal thyroid function tests? Hello Dr. Lee, In early November last year, during my health check-up, my height and weight were 181 cm and 58.7 kg, respectively. Aside from being underweight, all other indices were normal (including CEA and fecal occ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If thyroid function is normal, it may be advisable to consult a gastroenterologist to investigate whether the weight loss is related to chronic diarrhea.[Read More] Unexplained Weight Loss with Normal Thyroid Levels: Possible Causes
Understanding Gout Symptoms: Normal Uric Acid Levels and Foot Discomfort
Regarding normal uric acid levels but slight discomfort in the big toe? Hello Director Gao, I apologize for disturbing you, but I would like to consult you regarding a patient. About ten years ago, the patient experienced sudden severe pain in the foot and was diagnosed with gou...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Can gout occur even with normal uric acid levels? For example, if someone suddenly consumes a large amount of seafood or red meat, or if they haven't been drinking enough water recently, could this trigger a mild...[Read More] Understanding Gout Symptoms: Normal Uric Acid Levels and Foot Discomfort
Joint Stiffness and Pain After AZ Vaccine: What to Know
After receiving the AZ vaccine, I experienced joint stiffness and pain? Doctor: Hello, I received my first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine on July 30, 2021; the second and third doses of Moderna on October 3, 2021, and March 14, 2022. I am approximately 50 years old. About 1 to 2...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Currently, among your series of rheumatic disease test results, only the ESR is slightly elevated, and I recommend continuing to monitor it. After receiving this type of new vaccine, there is indeed a higher chance of...[Read More] Joint Stiffness and Pain After AZ Vaccine: What to Know
Understanding Blood Test Results: Key Insights for Your Health
Blood disorders In March, I experienced recurrent episodes of urticaria every 2 to 3 days. On April 2, I visited the rheumatology and immunology department for an examination. The doctor ordered blood tests to check liver and kidney function. Upon reviewing the report, I noticed ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here is my response summarized as follows: 1. Serum creatinine (CRE) is 0.48, white blood cell count shows NEUT 6220, N.seg 77.8, Lym 17.6. The CRE indicates kidney function, while the other values reflect white blood cell counts. Although the...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Key Insights for Your Health
Understanding Capillary Rupture and Autoimmune Disorders in the Legs
Capillary rupture and bleeding in the legs? Hello, Doctor Gao. I am currently experiencing capillary inflammation in my calves, which has led to subcutaneous bleeding, and I am experiencing widespread pain, particularly in my legs. I visited a dermatologist who said it is not an ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. There are many causes for inflammation of the small blood vessels in the legs, and it would be advisable to discuss this with your physician to determine if blood tests should be arranged. Most cases are minor issues, including viral infections,...[Read More] Understanding Capillary Rupture and Autoimmune Disorders in the Legs
Chronic Cough and Fever: Could It Indicate Liver Issues?
Persistent cough and fever? Hello, my mother has been coughing since the beginning of this year. In February, she had a fever and went to the hospital where she underwent X-rays, a CT scan, and a bronchoscopy. The X-ray only showed slight fluid accumulation below the ribs. Her sp...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, viral infections, bacterial infections, and medication factors can all affect liver function and lead to elevated liver enzyme levels. In a CT scan, the liver typically appears normal despite these three factors. If you are currently hospitalized...[Read More] Chronic Cough and Fever: Could It Indicate Liver Issues?
Understanding Kidney Issues: The Significance of Proteinuria and Creatinine Levels
Kidney issues (proteinuria) Urine Creatinine: 93.4 mg/dL Micro Albumin: 25.7 * mg/dL (Random Urine < 1.9 mg/dL) Urine Protein: 42.0 * mg/dL < 14 ACR: 275.16 * µg/mg Creatinine (<30) Protein/(Creatinine/1000): 449.68 mg/g Serum Creatinine: 1.07 Doctor, I have...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Dear Mr. A-Mao, Regarding your concerns about proteinuria, kidney function, and kidney biopsy, here are some suggestions for your consideration: 1. You may want to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of a kidney biopsy with your physician. An excerpt from UpToDate states, "...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: The Significance of Proteinuria and Creatinine Levels
Managing Hand Numbness in Fibromyalgia: Seeking the Right Specialist
Fibromyalgia and hand numbness? Hello, doctor. I have been suffering from hand pain and numbness for about three years. Initially, I was examined at two major hospitals in central Taiwan, and they both indicated issues related to autoimmune rheumatic arthritis. I was on medicatio...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The numbness you are experiencing is likely not related to fibromyalgia; it seems more probable that it is due to carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be confirmed through neurological examinations while ruling out cervical spine ...[Read More] Managing Hand Numbness in Fibromyalgia: Seeking the Right Specialist
Understanding EB Virus: Implications for Nasopharyngeal Cancer and Beyond
About Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Three months ago, my health check report indicated a positive Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) test for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. A few days later, I had an appointment with an otolaryngologist who performed an endoscopic examination of my nasopharynx, whic...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, EBV (Epstein-Barr Virus) is a very common virus, and almost everyone gets infected at some point in their lives. Most people will recover on their own, while a minority may experience some infectious symptoms. An even smaller number may have a long-term association with ca...[Read More] Understanding EB Virus: Implications for Nasopharyngeal Cancer and Beyond
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever: When to Seek Medical Advice
Temperature issues Hello Doctor, I am currently on day four of quarantine. Since the first night of quarantine, I have felt an increase in body temperature and warmth. (In previous years, I occasionally felt feverish, with temperatures around the mid-36s, sometimes reaching 37.3,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It can be difficult to distinguish between the symptoms of a common cold and COVID-19, so it may still be necessary to perform a PCR test or a rapid test for confirmation. 2. There are many possible causes of fever, and a detailed examination may be required to deter...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Levels: Your Health Questions Answered
Inquire about blood lipid and blood glucose issues? Hello: I have a lipid issue and have been taking traditional Chinese medicine and Lipitor for about six months. My last blood test results on February 21 showed: LDL: 185, HDL: 60, total cholesterol: 249, triglycerides: 67, bloo...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Your blood glucose is currently within the fasting range of 70-100 mg/dL, and your hemoglobin A1c is between 4-6%. Whether there are issues with your blood vessels can be determined based on your symptoms or through examinations. Generally, these conditions require long-te...[Read More] Understanding Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Levels: Your Health Questions Answered