Understanding Gout Symptoms: Is Morning Discomfort a Sign of Flare-Up?
Regarding the recent cold weather, I have been experiencing a dull sensation in my big toe, which has a history of gout, upon waking up in the morning. However, after urinating, the discomfort significantly decreases? Hello, Director Gao! I apologize for bothering you, but I have...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, this question has been asked before, so I will repost my response. If your uric acid levels remain consistently normal, I don't believe it is a gout attack. Previously affected joints from arthritis may leave some residual effects, making them more sensitive to change...[Read More] Understanding Gout Symptoms: Is Morning Discomfort a Sign of Flare-Up?
Understanding Causes of Lower Limb Edema: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
What are the possible causes of lower extremity edema? Hello Doctor: My father has been experiencing lower limb edema (with pitting), abdominal bloating, loss of appetite, subjective fatigue (increased sleep duration), along with pain in the skin of both legs and ankle joint pain...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If the albumin level in the blood is too low, it may also cause lower extremity edema. It is recommended to check the albumin level data, as low levels can lead to lower limb swelling. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Causes of Lower Limb Edema: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Does Chronic Inflammation from Ankylosing Spondylitis Raise LDL and Heart Disease Risk?
Does chronic inflammation from ankylosing spondylitis lead to elevated LDL (low-density lipoprotein) levels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease? 1. I am 55 years old and a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. About 4 to 5 years ago, I was effectively managing my condit...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. I am 55 years old and a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. About 4 to 5 years ago, I was effectively managing my condition with Salazopyrin and Celebrex, which normalized my pain and inflammatory markers, so I stopp...[Read More] Does Chronic Inflammation from Ankylosing Spondylitis Raise LDL and Heart Disease Risk?
Understanding Complement Levels and Autoimmune Disease Concerns Post-COVID
Complement inquiry? Hello Doctor, I previously asked a question and now I would like to follow up. After being diagnosed with COVID-19 on November 11, I experienced joint swelling, stiffness, discomfort, as well as dry, red, swollen eyes, rashes, and hair loss. After researching ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. I would like to ask if a decrease of 20 and 10 in the values of two complement components over a two-week period is normal. The doctor mentioned that different hospitals may report different values, but I am unsure i...[Read More] Understanding Complement Levels and Autoimmune Disease Concerns Post-COVID
Understanding Complement Levels and Autoimmune Disease Concerns Post-COVID
Complement inquiry? Hello Doctor, I have previously asked a question and now I would like to follow up. After being diagnosed with COVID-19 on November 11, I experienced joint swelling, stiffness, discomfort, as well as dry, red, swollen eyes, rashes, and hair loss. After researc...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. I would like to ask if a decrease of 20 and 10 in two complement values over a two-week period is normal. The doctor mentioned that different hospitals may have varying values, but I am unsure if this drop is signifi...[Read More] Understanding Complement Levels and Autoimmune Disease Concerns Post-COVID
Understanding Gout Symptoms: Is Morning Discomfort a Sign of Flare-Up?
Regarding the recent cold weather, I have been experiencing a feeling of heaviness in my big toe, which previously had gout, upon waking up in the morning. However, after urinating, the sensation decreases significantly? Hello, Director Gao! I apologize for bothering you, but I h...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. If your uric acid levels remain consistently normal, I don't believe this is a gout attack. Joints that have previously experienced arthritis may leave some residual effects, making them more sensitive to changes in humidity and climate. Y...[Read More] Understanding Gout Symptoms: Is Morning Discomfort a Sign of Flare-Up?
Essential Health Tips for Dialysis Patients: Supplements and Care Guidance
Which department should I consult for diseases related to dialysis patients regarding dietary supplements? 1. Is it appropriate for dialysis patients to supplement with free lutein and sphingolipids? My mother is currently 67 years old. Last week, she was discharged from National...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
It is recommended that you take your elder to the outpatient clinic of the Department of Nephrology at National Taiwan University to discuss your concerns and any issues encountered with the original attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Essential Health Tips for Dialysis Patients: Supplements and Care Guidance
Managing Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Drops During Dialysis: A Patient's Guide
When blood pressure drops during dialysis and heart rate also decreases, how should it be managed? Hello, Doctor Wu: I have been a dialysis patient for over a year and have hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. I also have coronary artery disease and mild arrhythmia. Last y...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
For heart-related issues, please consult a cardiologist. In cases of hypotension during dialysis, the on-site nephrologist should provide immediate feedback. Each situation is different, so please respond according to the circumstances at that time. Common management strategies i...[Read More] Managing Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Drops During Dialysis: A Patient's Guide
Understanding Post-Hospitalization Redness After Cellulitis Treatment
Cellulitis Hello, my dad is about 56 years old and was hospitalized for a week due to cellulitis in his lower leg, which caused a fever. He has been discharged for two days now, and while his leg no longer hurts, it is still red. What could be the reason for this?
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the most common reason is swelling after an infection, which usually subsides gradually when lying down with the affected area elevated. However, if you stand or walk for a long time, the redness and swelling may return. This is related to poor blood circulation following ...[Read More] Understanding Post-Hospitalization Redness After Cellulitis Treatment
Understanding Long Intestines: When to Consider Surgery for Constipation
Longer intestines Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing occasional constipation for a long time, but it has become very noticeable in the past two months, with bowel movements occurring only 1-2 times a week, producing very small amounts of stool, about the size of a fingernail...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: Since I am unaware of your specific clinical issues, I cannot provide you with concrete advice. However, you may try taking medication or consuming certain foods. If there is no improvement, please discuss the next steps with your physician. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Long Intestines: When to Consider Surgery for Constipation
Managing Hypocomplement Urticarial Vasculitis: Treatment Options and Guidance
Hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis syndrome (HUVS) I have been diagnosed with low complement urticarial vasculitis for about six months. My symptoms include skin rashes, weight loss, lower extremity vascular pain, and gum pain, along with peripheral neuropathy and dizziness...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. How to treat hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis? --> Treatment will be arranged based on the severity of the condition. If you only have skin manifestations, antihistamines may be effective; if there is asso...[Read More] Managing Hypocomplement Urticarial Vasculitis: Treatment Options and Guidance
Understanding Renal Cysts: Causes, Symptoms, and Follow-Up Care
Kidney cyst issues? Hello, doctor. I experienced pain in my right upper back at the beginning of September. The pain extended to my right abdomen and groin, prompting me to visit Hospital A for an emergency consultation. An ultrasound of my kidneys revealed a cyst. I was advised ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
You can visit the nephrology outpatient clinic for consultation.[Read More] Understanding Renal Cysts: Causes, Symptoms, and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Human T-Lymphotropic Virus: What Your Positive Test Means
Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) Hello doctor, I have been consistently donating blood and have done so 12 times. The reports for the first 11 times were normal, but this time the blood donation report tested positive for Human T-Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV). My 11th donation was i...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. What is a "Human T-lymphotropic virus" (HTLV) carrier? Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV), primarily classified into HTLV-I and HTLV-II, is screened for antibodies at blood donation centers using enzyme immunoassays. Individuals who test positive for HTLV antibodies t...[Read More] Understanding Human T-Lymphotropic Virus: What Your Positive Test Means
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Your Concerns Addressed
HIV transmission issues Hello Doctor: I am very afraid of HIV. I get scared when I see blood and worry that I might accidentally get infected. Today, while drinking water at home, I noticed a small red mark on my water bottle that looked like dried blood. I had to scrape hard to ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
HIV has three main routes of transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluids carries a risk of infection. 2. Blood transmission: (1) Receiving or coming into co...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Your Concerns Addressed
Can You Get HIV from Blood Tests? Understanding the Risks Involved
Is it possible to contract HIV during the blood draw process? Hello, doctor. Thank you for taking the time to answer my question despite your busy schedule. Yesterday morning, I went to a nearby medical laboratory to have my blood tested because I was concerned about my blood sug...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
HIV has three main routes of transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluids carries a risk of infection. 2. Blood transmission: (1) Receiving or coming into co...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Blood Tests? Understanding the Risks Involved
Understanding Blood Sugar Spikes After Pain Management in Diabetics
Factors Affecting Blood Glucose Levels I would like to consult a doctor. My mother has been experiencing lower back pain and has seen an orthopedic doctor. She received an injection and is taking muscle relaxants. Since my mother has diabetes, her blood sugar levels are regularly...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Pain can cause an increase in blood sugar levels, and certain injections, such as steroids, can also raise blood sugar levels. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Spikes After Pain Management in Diabetics
Understanding Blood Test Results: What High RBC and Basophils Mean
Blood test? Hello, doctor. This time I suddenly experienced dizziness and vomited twice. I went to the hospital for a blood test, and the results showed RBC 5.11, Basophils 1.9, total cholesterol 202, and triglycerides 219, all highlighted in red. Both RBC and Basophils are sligh...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
If you still experience discomfort, please return for a follow-up appointment to have your attending physician assess your condition and address your concerns in person. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: What High RBC and Basophils Mean
Understanding Urinary Albumin Levels: What Does a 30 Mean for Your Health?
Urinary albumin Hello Doctor: This morning I went to the medical laboratory for a simple health check, and I just received the report showing a highlighted value of "urine albumin at 30," with a normal range of 10. This has made me very anxious, and I would like to ask ...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
It is recommended to go to the hospital for another test to determine the need for dialysis based on blood toxins, such as creatinine. Simply looking at urine cannot guarantee health and safety.[Read More] Understanding Urinary Albumin Levels: What Does a 30 Mean for Your Health?
Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Symptoms, Medication Concerns, and Risks
Symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome and medication issues? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome two years ago, initially experiencing only dry mouth. By June, I developed stiffness in my finger joints (sometimes only in the morning, sometimes lasting half a ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Based on the blood test report and the current symptom of dry mouth, do I need to take quinine? If I do not take it, what potential complications might arise in the future? (I have been hesitant to take medication sinc...[Read More] Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Symptoms, Medication Concerns, and Risks
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Rectal bleeding Hello Doctor: I was shocked to find blood in my stool tonight. There was about 2cc of blood mixed with the stool in the water. At first, I thought it might be my menstrual period or that I had eaten dragon fruit, but then I realized my period just ended yesterday ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: If there is blood covering normal stool, and the bleeding is mostly near the anal opening, the most common cause is a rupture of internal hemorrhoids (which are usually painless), possibly due to a harder stool during a bowel movement. It is advisable to observe if it happ...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help