Understanding Arthritis Medications: Managing Symptoms and Side Effects
Arthritis medications I have been under follow-up in the rheumatology and immunology department for a year and a half. Previously, I was not on any medication, but my erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) for 2 hours and 1 hour has consistently been elevated, with values ranging f...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Based on your question, my response is as follows: 1. Your symptoms resemble urticaria, which may be a side effect of medication; both the anti-inflammatory or pain relief medications could be potential culprits. Urticaria is generally a mild ...[Read More] Understanding Arthritis Medications: Managing Symptoms and Side Effects
Concerns About Unknown Liquid Exposure in Hospitals: What to Know
Infected with an unknown liquid in the hospital? Thank you for the doctor's initial response. I encountered an unknown yellow-brown residue (possibly povidone-iodine or another substance) at a local hospital in Vietnam. I would like to confirm with the doctor whether "l...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Yes, you should also be cautious that the unknown substance may be corrosive and could harm your skin. Generally, after an exposure incident involving blood or bodily fluids, it is recommended to test for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. In your case, it technically d...[Read More] Concerns About Unknown Liquid Exposure in Hospitals: What to Know
Understanding Secondary Syphilis: Treatment and Infectiousness Timeline
Secondary syphilis Hello doctor, I was recently diagnosed with stage 2 syphilis. I received an injection for treatment on October 14 and have not yet returned for blood tests. I would like to ask how long it typically takes in this situation and what specific levels need to be be...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, typically after completing the full treatment, a syphilis test is conducted approximately 3 to 6 months later. If the index shows a fourfold decrease, it indicates a good treatment response and a lower chance of transmission. Ideally, if the RPR (VDRL) index can drop to ze...[Read More] Understanding Secondary Syphilis: Treatment and Infectiousness Timeline
Risk of Syphilis Infection from Blood Contact: What You Need to Know
The probability of contracting syphilis? Hello doctor, I had direct contact with the blood of a person infected with syphilis. At the time, my hand had no open wounds, and I washed my hands a few minutes later. That person's blood test for TPPA was 1:640, and they have alrea...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: 1. The patient has completed syphilis treatment and is essentially non-infectious. 2. If your hands do not have any open wounds, you will not be infected even if you come into contact with blood containing syphilis bacteria![Read More] Risk of Syphilis Infection from Blood Contact: What You Need to Know
Do Diabetic Patients with LDL Cholesterol of 113 Need Medication?
Should a diabetic patient with a low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol level of 113 be treated with medication? During my health check-up, I found that my glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was 6.7, total cholesterol was 185, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol was 123. Af...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If a diagnosis of diabetes is confirmed, according to international large-scale studies, lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol to below 100 mg/dL can reduce the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. This is why the National Health Insurance Administration provides co...[Read More] Do Diabetic Patients with LDL Cholesterol of 113 Need Medication?
Understanding Prolonged Pain After BNT Vaccination: A Patient's Journey
Discomfort after receiving the BNT vaccine? Hello Dr. Hong, I received my first dose of the BNT vaccine on June 20 at 15:58, and I began experiencing pain under my left clavicle at 16:08. Twelve hours after the first dose, I developed a fever and redness and swelling at the injec...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, muscle and joint pain after vaccination is quite common. However, if you have been experiencing pain for two months and it is getting worse, it may be necessary to consider that it might not be solely caused by the vaccine and that other underlying conditions could be invo...[Read More] Understanding Prolonged Pain After BNT Vaccination: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Hematospermia: Treatment Success and Ongoing Symptoms
The success of treatment for hematospermia (blood in semen) depends on the underlying cause. It is important to conduct a thorough evaluation, including a medical history, physical examination, and appropriate diagnostic tests? Hello Doctor, I discovered blood in my semen in mid-...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It is possible that the metabolites of hemoglobin may still appear reddish-brown, but the fecal occult blood test will be negative. 2. It is recommended to refrain from masturbation and observe the color of the urine; usually, bleeding should stop within 2-3 weeks. I...[Read More] Understanding Hematospermia: Treatment Success and Ongoing Symptoms
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Triggers, and Healing Insights
Rheumatoid Arthritis - Condition Monitoring and Questions Hello, Dr. Gao: I have been diagnosed with seronegative rheumatoid arthritis for one year and am currently taking pain relievers, corticosteroids, and immunomodulators (quinine/enteric-coated tablets). My main symptoms are...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I will assume that your condition is "seronegative rheumatoid arthritis" for my response. Here is my summary: 1. After dinner, your fingers swell (and the swelling subsides after digestion). 2. During exercise, your fingers swell (an...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Triggers, and Healing Insights
Understanding Abnormal Autoimmune Test Results: Should You Seek a Second Opinion?
Examination report issues Hello, doctor. I previously inquired about my shoulder, neck, and arm pain that has lasted for three months. After examination, the report showed normal indices, except for two abnormal findings: Homogeneous 1/640 (Positive) and Speckled 1/640 (Positive)...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. The physician's decision may be based on their considerations. If you have concerns, you can prepare your test results and seek a second opinion from another rheumatologist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua H...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Autoimmune Test Results: Should You Seek a Second Opinion?
Understanding Prediabetes Diagnosis After Post-Meal Blood Sugar Test
Regarding the postprandial blood glucose test results in the United States indicating prediabetes? Hello Dr. Lee, I am approximately 169 cm tall and weighed 67.5 kg at the time of my examination on July 28. I have a history of ankylosing spondylitis (diagnosed in 2008) and am a ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c): A level of 5.8% is sufficient to diagnose prediabetes. HbA1c can be tested after meals, and a follow-up test can be conducted in three months.[Read More] Understanding Prediabetes Diagnosis After Post-Meal Blood Sugar Test
Understanding Antinuclear Antibodies and Lupus: A Patient's Guide
Antinuclear antibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus? ANA: Speckled 1:640 HLA-B27: Negative E.S.R: 61 Basophils: 1.0 Eosinophils: 1.0 Hemoglobin (Hb): 11.9 Hematocrit (Hct): 36.1 Lymphocytes: 28.2 Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH): 25.3 Mean Corpuscular Hemogl...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Your question regarding elevated ANA and ESR levels indicates that it is essential to further investigate the cause of the elevated ANA. Additional tests may be necessary to confirm your diagnosis, and I recommend consulting a rheumatologist for...[Read More] Understanding Antinuclear Antibodies and Lupus: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling and Elevated LDH Levels: What to Know
Lymphadenopathy / Elevated LDH levels Hello Doctor, my friend recently developed a sudden swelling in the neck, approximately 1.5 cm in size. Initially, it was painful when pressed, and they immediately went to an ENT specialist who recommended transferring to a larger hospital. ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! The enlargement of cervical lymph nodes combined with elevated LDH levels does warrant caution regarding the possibility of hematological disorders or malignancies. However, the most accurate method of diagnosis is through biopsy followed by pathological examination. Typic...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling and Elevated LDH Levels: What to Know
Post-Exercise Dizziness: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Dizziness and discomfort after exercise? Hello Doctor, I exercise for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour every day. I usually go to bed before midnight and wake up at 7 AM. My exercise routine typically starts around 4 PM and mainly consists of aerobic exercises combined with simple b...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, there are four possible conditions. First is orthostatic hypotension, which is characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing posture, leading to dizziness. This typically resolves with rest, and there is no specific treatment other than...[Read More] Post-Exercise Dizziness: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Understanding Your Immunology Blood Test Results: SSA and SSB Levels Explained
Examination Report The immune blood test report shows normal results, with SSA and SSB levels at 17.15. Are these considered positive? Are they normal?
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. The normal range values for SSA and SSB tests may vary slightly between hospitals, so it would be best to include the normal range from your test report for a more accurate assessment. Based on our hospital's reference normal range, your va...[Read More] Understanding Your Immunology Blood Test Results: SSA and SSB Levels Explained
Joint Pain and Stiffness: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
The finger joints are swollen and painful, but the doctor said it is not rheumatoid arthritis? Hello Doctor, since late last year, I have noticed stiffness in my finger joints upon waking up, which was mild at first. Recently, the frequency has increased, and almost every day my ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. An ANA value of 1:80 falls into a gray area. However, if you continue to experience joint pain and stiffness, along with occasional nighttime pain that disrupts your sleep, I recommend that you visit a rheumatology clinic to discuss your concern...[Read More] Joint Pain and Stiffness: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Understanding Your Rheumatology Test Results: What Do They Mean?
Rheumatology and Immunology Examination Results I have been experiencing pain in my shoulders, neck, arms, and fingers for three months, and rehabilitation has not improved my condition. I consulted a rheumatologist, who ordered blood tests, and the results are as follows: ESR:...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. The abnormal findings in your test report indicate a PATTERN of Homogeneous 1/640 (Positive) and a PATTERN of Speckled 1/640 (Positive), which are results for Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA). Antinuclear antibodies are one of the screening indicato...[Read More] Understanding Your Rheumatology Test Results: What Do They Mean?
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What You Need to Know
Autoimmune diseases Hello Doctor, last year I had a health check-up due to my studies, and since I was on my menstrual period that day, I experienced hematuria. After returning to the hospital for a follow-up, it was confirmed that there were no issues, and the cause of the hemat...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. The following test results may be related to autoimmune diseases, and if necessary, further blood tests can be arranged: C3: 57.7, C4: 10.7, ANA: Dense fine speckled with a titer of 1:160. I'm not sure if your physician has already arranged...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What You Need to Know
Understanding Cutaneous Lupus: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
cutaneous lupus Hello Doctor, I am currently in Germany. I have a large area of redness and swelling near my knee on my thigh, resembling a bruise, and it is itchy. Additionally, I have experienced hair loss and itching on my scalp in the past, but I'm not sure if it's ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Cutaneous lupus may gradually develop into systemic manifestations, which is known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Therefore, it is essential to have regular check-ups to determine whether the symptoms remain confined to the skin or if th...[Read More] Understanding Cutaneous Lupus: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Your Blood Test Results: A Guide for Patients
Blood Test Report Could Dr. Hong please take a look at this blood report to see if there are any issues? Thank you. Hb: 13.6 Hct: 40.5 MCH: 29.9 MCHC: 33.6 MCV: 89.0 Platelet count: 221 RBC: 4.55 WBC: 5.22 A-Lym: 0.0 Band: 0.0 Baso: 1.0 Blast: 0.0 Eosin:...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, according to this examination report, the only slightly abnormal finding is the low neutrophil count, but this could also be within normal physiological range. It should be considered alongside your symptoms; if you have no discomfort, there is no need to worry. Thank you ...[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Decreased Red and White Blood Cell Counts: What You Need to Know
Decreased red and white blood cell counts? Hello, I recently reviewed my previous health check-up reports from high school and college, which were three years apart. My red blood cell count decreased from 4.17 to 3.97, and my white blood cell count also decreased from 6.9 to 5.5....
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your blood test report, both the changes in white blood cells and red blood cells are within normal ranges, so there is no need to worry about anemia. It is important to also consider the hemoglobin (Hb) levels to assess this condition. To improve your overall hea...[Read More] Understanding Decreased Red and White Blood Cell Counts: What You Need to Know