Navigating My Medical Journey: Confusion and Fear Amidst Antibiotic Treatment
What is happening with my medical process? I am filled with confusion and fear? I am currently on antibiotics and waiting for an MRI examination... Let me recount my medical journey from November 23, 2018, to the present... On the 23rd, I developed a corn on my right big toe, so ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, regarding your questions, here are the responses: 1. When bacterial infection is confirmed, why is it not possible to be hospitalized immediately (waiting for 4 days), and even after hospitalization, immediate testing is not available? After nearly 2 weeks of anti...[Read More] Navigating My Medical Journey: Confusion and Fear Amidst Antibiotic Treatment
Understanding Acute Urticaria and Its Connection to SLE: A Patient's Journey
SLE & urticaria Hello Doctor, my question is regarding an unexplained acute urticaria attack I experienced in early July this year. Since then, I have been taking antihistamines, starting with Xyzal 1 tablet daily and now increasing to 1 tablet twice daily. During this period...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. The diagnosis of lupus erythematosus indeed requires a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory test results for greater accuracy. For suspected cases, we also continue to monitor over a period of time rather than making hasty conclusions...[Read More] Understanding Acute Urticaria and Its Connection to SLE: A Patient's Journey
Managing High Blood Pressure: Tips for Relief and Better Health
Hypertension issues Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask a question that has been bothering me. Whenever my blood pressure spikes to 130-140, I experience headaches at night. As soon as I close my eyes, it feels like I'm on a roller coaster. For the past two years, my head CT,...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Based on your symptoms, I would recommend that you regularly measure your blood pressure at home in the morning and evening. Additionally, it is advisable to record your response to the antihypertensive medication and inform your physician during your follow-up visit, as t...[Read More] Managing High Blood Pressure: Tips for Relief and Better Health
Accidental Needle Stick from Diabetic Insulin: Should I Get Tested?
Accidentally pricked by an insulin needle used by a family member with diabetes? Hello Doctor, my mother has diabetes and needs someone to help her with daily insulin injections. However, I have had an experience where I accidentally pricked myself with a used needle, causing it ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, we are usually mainly concerned about the transmission of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, syphilis, and HIV. If your mother does not have any of these four diseases, there should be no need for concern. However, if you are unable to confirm whether your mother has any of these c...[Read More] Accidental Needle Stick from Diabetic Insulin: Should I Get Tested?
Rising BUN and Creatinine Levels: Should You Worry About Kidney Health?
If BUN and creatinine levels are continuously rising (but still within the normal range), does this indicate a problem with the kidneys? Hello Doctor: I had a blood test in November 2017, which showed a BUN of 6 and a creatinine level of 9. In August 2018, I had another blood tes...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
1. BUN and creatinine (CRE) have standard values established by each laboratory. As long as the values are within the normal range (e.g., CRE: 0.7-1.3), the results indicate that they fall within the normal limits. Fluctuations in these values can be significantly influenced by d...[Read More] Rising BUN and Creatinine Levels: Should You Worry About Kidney Health?
Concerns About Congenital Syphilis in Newborns: A Mother's Guide
Newborns exposed to congenital syphilis? Hello Doctor: I am a pregnant mother. Last week, I took my child to the hospital for a check-up, and in front of me was a 2-month-old baby. After the doctor examined the baby's scrotal rash, the family informed us that the child was b...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: 1. Syphilis is transmitted through blood or bodily fluids, so simply touching the face will not transmit the infection! 2. Similarly, there is no blood or bodily fluid residue on the skin outside the testicles, so syphilis cannot be transmitted by touching the testicles. 3...[Read More] Concerns About Congenital Syphilis in Newborns: A Mother's Guide
Understanding Urine Test Results: Uribilinogen Levels and Health Concerns
In the recent health check report, a urine urobilinogen level of "1+" indicates a mild presence of urobilinogen in the urine. Urobilinogen is a byproduct of bilirubin reduction, and its levels can provide insights into liver function and hemolysis. A "1+" resu...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: The normal value for urobilinogen is less than 1.0 E.U/dL, and your test result is 1.0, which is actually not considered high. This is because urine tests are typically conducted using the first morning urine, which can be concentrated and may lead to a higher value. Furth...[Read More] Understanding Urine Test Results: Uribilinogen Levels and Health Concerns
Dry Eyes, Dry Mouth, and Dizziness: Understanding Your Symptoms
Dry eyes, dry mouth, and dizziness? Hello, Doctor! Initially, I experienced discomfort in my eyes, which was then accompanied by dizziness, specifically a sensation of feeling heavy-headed and light-footed. Yesterday, I even felt dizzy to the point of having a seizure-like sensat...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Ah Wei, thank you for your question. I apologize for the delayed response due to some internet issues. I think it would be a good idea to consult an otolaryngologist. Dryness syndrome is indeed less commonly associated with dizziness, but certain conditions in neurology or ...[Read More] Dry Eyes, Dry Mouth, and Dizziness: Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding HIV and Syphilis Testing: 92 Days After Exposure
May I ask the doctor? 1. If you undergo an HIV rapid test using the Abbott test 92 days after engaging in sexual intercourse and the result is negative, it is generally considered a reliable indication that you are not infected with HIV. However, it is always recommended to consu...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! The window period for HIV varies from person to person. Generally, the duration of the window period can differ based on various testing methods or the individual's health status, such as immune function. Typically, the window period ranges from 3 to 12 weeks. As for ...[Read More] Understanding HIV and Syphilis Testing: 92 Days After Exposure
Understanding Thyroid Dysfunction: Impact on Weight and Ear Issues
Hyperthyroidism? Hello doctor, I have been taking the third pack of oral contraceptives, alternating between YAZ and NINA. I have had issues with ear congestion for several years, which initially did not affect my daily life. Recently, however, I have been experiencing multiple e...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, here are a few points to clarify: 1. Regarding thyroid issues: I'm not sure if you have symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as sensitivity to cold, weight loss, increased anxiety, or frequent diarrhea. If you do not have these symptoms, an i...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Dysfunction: Impact on Weight and Ear Issues
Understanding Low Urine Creatinine Levels and Kidney Function
Low urine creatinine levels? Hello, doctor: I have a history of iron deficiency anemia and hypothyroidism, and I tend to experience mild edema. Recently, I underwent a physical examination, which included blood tests showing BUN 10, Cr 0.8, and urine tests showing Protein (urine)...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Renal function is assessed based on eGFR. According to the data you provided, eGFR = 81.718 ml/min/1.73 m², which indicates that renal function is still within the normal range for your age. Regarding your question about urine creatinine (21.5 mg/dl), it is used to correct protei...[Read More] Understanding Low Urine Creatinine Levels and Kidney Function
Understanding ANA Titer Results: When to Seek Further Immune Testing
ANA titer issue? Hello, the ANA titer in the blood test report is 1:80, and my body temperature has been slightly elevated (around 37.3°C) for the past few weeks. My palms feel very warm, and my face often appears flushed. Should I undergo additional immunological tests?
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Regarding your blood test report, the ANA (antinuclear antibody) level is elevated. Regardless of whether there are accompanying clinical symptoms, it is indeed recommended that you seek early follow-up and further diagnostic evaluation with a rheumatology specialist.[Read More] Understanding ANA Titer Results: When to Seek Further Immune Testing
Understanding Hepatitis B: Interferon Treatment Options and Effectiveness
Hepatitis B Interferon Hello, doctor: My mother is a carrier of hepatitis B, but I was vaccinated at birth and have consistently tested positive for antibodies while being a carrier myself, so I haven't paid much attention to it. Recently, when I tried to donate blood, I tes...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, currently hepatitis B cannot be cured; however, hepatitis C can be cured. Many medications for hepatitis B are under development, and it is believed that in the foreseeable future, hepatitis B may also be curable. Currently, treatment for hepatitis B is typically offered t...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Interferon Treatment Options and Effectiveness
How Long Do Gout Medications Take to Lower Uric Acid Levels?
What is the duration of the uric acid-lowering medication for gout? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing pain in the top of my foot, so I visited a nearby orthopedic clinic. The orthopedic doctor suggested it might be gout, and he ordered a blood test to check my ...
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
1. Gout is a clinical diagnosis and is not determined solely by laboratory blood tests; therefore, it does not have an absolute relationship with uric acid levels. 2. The text does not specify which medications were taken, so it is not possible to assess their efficacy.[Read More] How Long Do Gout Medications Take to Lower Uric Acid Levels?
Unexplained Fever: Navigating Persistent High Temperatures and Symptoms
Fever of unknown origin? Hello doctor, since July until now (August 26), my body temperature has been consistently elevated. The lowest temperature in July was 37.2°C, and it intermittently rose to 38°C. After a while, I started experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort, vomiting ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is possible that the fever is caused by some atypical infections or non-infectious conditions. There are indeed many potential reasons for this, and a detailed examination is necessary. If the fever persists, I recommend visiting an infectious...[Read More] Unexplained Fever: Navigating Persistent High Temperatures and Symptoms
Managing Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide for Overweight Individuals
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) Hello, doctor. I am obese and have sleep apnea and high blood pressure. Currently, I am taking half of a 5 mg blood pressure medication, which has been controlling my condition for a while. My morning and evening blood pressure readings are quite stabl...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
As your physician mentioned: diet and exercise management. Additionally, it is advisable to consult a nutritionist or a diabetes educator for more information on this matter. Thank you for your message.[Read More] Managing Blood Sugar Levels: A Guide for Overweight Individuals
Understanding Kidney Health: Addressing Concerns About Urine Changes
Kidney problems Hello Doctor: In mid-April, I started experiencing acne on my face, so I visited a dermatologist and took medication and applied topical treatments for about two months. Later, I noticed that my urine had bubbles, so I went to a nephrologist for a urine test and b...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Based on the partial report you provided, I believe your kidneys are generally in good condition. However, if you could provide complete blood and urine test reports, it would be more helpful in assessing your health status. Generally speaking, foamy urine often raises con...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Health: Addressing Concerns About Urine Changes
Concerns About HIV and Hepatitis B After Unsafe Sexual Encounters
Concerns regarding HIV and Hepatitis B? I have been staying up late until 3 AM since the beginning of the year. Between late February and mid-April, I had several instances of unprotected sexual intercourse with the same person (I am unaware of his medical history; I only know th...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, theoretically, the average window period for HIV is 3 months. If you have not engaged in sexual activity since April, then you should have surpassed the window period. Testing in August would likely yield a negative result, and the chances of infection should be very low. ...[Read More] Concerns About HIV and Hepatitis B After Unsafe Sexual Encounters
Understanding Thyroid Function Changes During Pregnancy: Key Concerns
Is there a trend for hypothyroidism to progress to hyperthyroidism? Hello Doctor: I am currently 34 weeks pregnant. At the end of May this year, I had my thyroid function tested at the hospital, and the blood test results were as follows: Free T4: 0.79 (normal range: 0.89-1.76), ...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
There are many factors to consider regarding thyroid diseases, and the complexities increase during pregnancy. It is recommended that you schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss this with your attending physician without delay. This is the most timely and effective way to add...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Function Changes During Pregnancy: Key Concerns
Unexplained Nighttime Fever: Causes and When to Seek Help
Fever of unknown origin at night? Hello, Doctor. On July 28th, around 8 PM, I started feeling warmth in my cheeks and experiencing a rapid heartbeat. Even in an air-conditioned room, I was sweating continuously. Later, when I lay down to sleep, I felt my heart racing and continue...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the temperature you measured, there is indeed no fever present. As for the feeling of having a fever that you described, there are many possible causes, including premenstrual syndrome and endocrine issues. I recommend that you first visit an infectious disease sp...[Read More] Unexplained Nighttime Fever: Causes and When to Seek Help