When Can an ICU Breathing Tube Be Safely Removed?
When can the endotracheal tube be removed in the ICU? Hello Dr. Chiu, my mother is 72 years old. On October 9th, she suddenly vomited blood six times, with each episode producing approximately 300-400 cc of blood. She was treated in the emergency department, receiving four units ...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
The timing for extubation should respect the expertise of the ICU physician. If the patient has the following risks: 1. A risk of secondary bleeding, which generally requires observation for 48 to 72 hours. 2. Concerns about aspiration pneumonia resulting from the bleeding proces...[Read More] When Can an ICU Breathing Tube Be Safely Removed?
Do I Need Surgery for Gallstones? Understanding Symptoms and Treatment
Is surgery necessary for gallstones? Hello Doctor, I often experience abdominal bloating and discomfort after meals, and this year it has been particularly bothersome. I have been taking medications for my stomach and to relieve bloating. A few months ago, I had severe bloating t...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
This should be considered symptomatic, and it is advisable to discuss the feasibility of surgery or endoscopic stone removal with your gastroenterologist.[Read More] Do I Need Surgery for Gallstones? Understanding Symptoms and Treatment
Can You Contract HIV from Contaminated Alcohol Swabs?
HIV transmission routes (injection) If the alcohol swab was placed on the table and potentially contaminated with HIV-infected blood or bodily fluids, the risk of HIV transmission through that swab is extremely low. HIV does not survive long outside the human body, and it is part...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, 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 the risk of infection....[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from Contaminated Alcohol Swabs?
Can Eye Drops Contaminated with HIV Blood Transmit the Virus?
Transmission routes of HIV If eye drops are contaminated with red blood, and if that blood is HIV-positive, there is a potential risk of HIV transmission if the contaminated eye drops are applied to the eyes. However, the risk of transmission through this route is considered to b...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
The conjunctiva of the eye is a mucous membrane, and contact with bodily fluids containing the HIV virus poses a risk of transmission.[Read More] Can Eye Drops Contaminated with HIV Blood Transmit the Virus?
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Should You Worry About 100 mg/dL?
Blood sugar issues? Doctor, I apologize for bothering you. I would like to ask about my recent concerns regarding my blood sugar levels. The last time I measured my blood sugar was about three to four hours after a meal (the dinner consisted of two packs of Korean instant noodles...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, a postprandial blood sugar level of 100 mg/dL is quite standard! If you're concerned, you can have your hemoglobin A1c tested, which reflects the average blood glucose levels over the past three months and can provide a more accurate assessment of whether you have pre...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Should You Worry About 100 mg/dL?
Could It Be HIV? Understanding Symptoms After Unprotected Sex
Could it be HIV? Hello doctor, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with a woman yesterday. I have had a cold for three days, and the day after the unprotected intercourse, I noticed that I have swollen lymph nodes. Could this be HIV? I have never had unprotected sex before.
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries the risk of...[Read More] Could It Be HIV? Understanding Symptoms After Unprotected Sex
Ankylosing Spondylitis or Spinal Degeneration: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Ankylosing spondylitis or spinal degeneration? Hello Doctor: I am the one who previously asked about my case in <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/200623">#200623</a>. My blood test and MRI reports have come back. The blood test report (as mentioned by the ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I previously had an X-ray in the immunology department that showed a slight inflammation in the right sacroiliac joint (there was a bit of whiteness, but it was not obvious). However, the MRI report from the rehabili...[Read More] Ankylosing Spondylitis or Spinal Degeneration: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Understanding the Link Between Creatinine Levels and Hypertension Management
Hypertension and Elevated Creatinine Levels Dear Dr. Lin, Last December, my serum creatinine level was 0.78 mg/dL, with a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 122.6 mL/min. I weighed 64 kg and was 170 cm tall. This October, my serum creatinine increased to 0.9 mg/dL, and my micro...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Please take the medication as prescribed and follow up regularly. If you have any concerns, it is advisable to schedule an earlier consultation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Creatinine Levels and Hypertension Management
Understanding Urinary Hematuria and Glomerular Filtration Rate Changes
Urinary occult blood. Glomerular filtration rate? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask about the significance of my urine occult blood test results. Initially, it was 4+, and after 4 months, it changed to 5. Is this an improvement or a worsening for my kidneys? I have a history of ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Please take the medication as prescribed and follow up regularly. If you have any concerns, please return to the clinic to discuss them with your attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Urinary Hematuria and Glomerular Filtration Rate Changes
Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns
Chronic urticaria Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if chronic urticaria can only be managed with medication. I have been taking antihistamines for over two months, and during that time, I felt fine without itching, although sometimes my skin would be a bit red. A few years ago,...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The result of the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is acceptable; although it is marked as positive, the value is still within an acceptable range according to rheumatology standards, so there is no need to worry too much. Regarding chronic urti...[Read More] Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns
Can You Get HIV from a Cut by an Infected Sharp Object?
HIV transmission routes (through cuts) If you are cut by a sharp object contaminated with HIV-infected blood, there is a potential risk of HIV transmission. However, the actual risk depends on several factors, including the amount of blood present, the depth of the cut, and the o...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
There is a possibility (the information provided is too limited to make an assessment, so I can only say that there are risks involved).[Read More] Can You Get HIV from a Cut by an Infected Sharp Object?
Can You Get the Flu Vaccine with an Autoimmune Disease?
Influenza vaccine Hello doctor, I had blood tests this week in the rheumatology and immunology department to check for issues related to my immune system, but the results are not out yet. My symptoms are suggestive of reactive arthritis. I would like to ask if it turns out to be ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe it is advisable. Individuals with immune system disorders should also receive the influenza vaccine, and the likelihood of experiencing side effects is not higher. This is a message from the Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Depar...[Read More] Can You Get the Flu Vaccine with an Autoimmune Disease?
Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis: Is There Room for Reassessment?
Is there still room for maneuver regarding the diagnosis of diabetes? The company's health check showed a fasting blood glucose level of 131 mg/dL (with a hemoglobin A1c of 6.7% from late September). Last week, I had a separate lipid panel test with a triglyceride level of 1...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Since the blood glucose levels were tested separately on two occasions, they meet the criteria for diabetes. It is advisable to control it as soon as possible.[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis: Is There Room for Reassessment?
Understanding Risks of Bloodborne Diseases: Key Concerns and Clarifications
Regarding issue #201311? Regarding your inquiry about the risks of HIV and other bloodborne diseases: 1. There is a potential risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases if a wound or blood comes into direct contact with mucous membranes or broken skin. However, if the area around...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. If there is no contact with the skin where the fingers touched, theoretically, there is no risk of transmission (referring to the absence of blood, not just the lack of visible blood). 2. The risk is extremely low because the virus must travel from the bloodstain to the ointm...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Bloodborne Diseases: Key Concerns and Clarifications
Understanding Tonsil Inflammation: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Inquiry about tonsil issues? Hello Doctor: Three days ago, I suddenly noticed that my left tonsil became red and swollen. I went to a nearby internal medicine clinic where the doctor confirmed that it appeared to be inflamed. I visited again yesterday because I noticed a small sp...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, if you're unsure whether it's tonsil stones, it's recommended to visit the ENT department at the hospital for further examination. If a CT scan is necessary, it will be arranged based on the physician's assessment.[Read More] Understanding Tonsil Inflammation: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Concerns About Bloodborne Diseases During Pediatric Urology Visits
Concerns and anxiety about medical consultations, worrying about blood and infectious diseases? Hello Doctor: Yesterday, I took my child to a pediatric clinic for a urology consultation. During the consultation, I noticed that the physician had a noticeable laceration at the base...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Direct contact of wounds or blood with mucous membranes or broken skin may pose a risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases. However, if there is blood at the base of the fingernail and the finger touches intact skin, theoretically, there is a risk of transmission. 2. The surf...[Read More] Concerns About Bloodborne Diseases During Pediatric Urology Visits
Do Antibiotics Affect Blood Test Results for Arthritis?
Does taking antibiotics affect blood test results? Hello, Doctor Gao. I am the questioner with ID 201193. I would like to ask if taking Cephalon capsules (antibiotic), Decan tablets (antihistamine for itching), Acemet capsules (anti-inflammatory pain relief), and Solaxin will aff...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. It will not have any impact. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is here to support you.[Read More] Do Antibiotics Affect Blood Test Results for Arthritis?
Can You Contract HIV from Contaminated Surfaces? Common Concerns Addressed
Inquiry about HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) 1. If you sit on a surface contaminated with HIV-infected blood or bodily fluids, the risk of contracting HIV is extremely low. HIV is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, such as through open w...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Viruses can only survive outside the human body for a few minutes, so the risk of contracting HIV through indirect contact with bodily fluids in the environment is extremely low. Essentially, there is no need for concern.[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from Contaminated Surfaces? Common Concerns Addressed
Understanding High Insulin Resistance and Blood Insulin Levels: A Guide
High blood insulin levels and high insulin resistance? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my recent self-paid blood tests. My insulin resistance index is 7.1 (normal range: 1.4-2.0), and my blood insulin concentration is 28.65 uU/mL (normal range: 2.6-24.9), which is higher...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello, a fasting blood glucose level of 100 mg/dL is classified as impaired fasting glucose (IFG), which is a form of prediabetes. The diagnosis of prediabetes does not rely on the insulin resistance index or blood insulin levels. There are many reasons for a high insulin resista...[Read More] Understanding High Insulin Resistance and Blood Insulin Levels: A Guide
Understanding Immune System Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Immune system issues Hello, Doctor Gao. I have a few questions to ask you, and I appreciate your help. 1. At the beginning of August, I developed a urinary tract infection and took antibiotics for two weeks. The symptoms disappeared, and I thought I was cured, so I didn't ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe there is a high possibility of reactive arthritis, especially considering your age and the occurrence of acute prostatitis along with unexplained joint effusion and swelling. I recommend that you consult a rheumatologist nearby. The Al...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained