Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Eye Exposure to Infected Fluids?
Transmission routes of HIV (ocular) Is it possible to get HIV infection if HIV-infected bodily fluids come into contact with the eyes?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-...[Read More] Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Eye Exposure to Infected Fluids?
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter
What is the likelihood of contracting the HIV virus? Hello Doctor: - I had contact with a sex worker on August 16: unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse. - About 3 to 4 days after the incident, I felt a slight tingling sensation on the glans and noticed white or...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-in...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter
Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis Results: CREA and Color Insights
Urinalysis report CREA(U) (semi-quantitative) 100 mg/dL (-) pH 7.5 Bilirubin negative Color Straw (yellow) Glucose negative Ketone negative MALB(U) (...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The difference between yellow and straw-colored urine is minimal, and if there are no other abnormalities in the urine test, I believe it is not a concern. As for urine creatinine, it is related to kidney function, but in young males who consum...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis Results: CREA and Color Insights
Exploring Additional Tests for Persistent Low Hemoglobin in Diabetic Patients
Are there any other recommended tests to be done? Hello, my grandfather is a diabetes patient and was previously diagnosed with rectal cancer. Over the past two years, his regular diabetes monitoring tests have shown that his hemoglobin (Hb) levels have consistently been low (aro...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I recommend arranging a hematology outpatient appointment for the elderly gentleman to discuss with the physician the management of iron supplementation that has not been effective. Autoimmunity, bone marrow hematopoietic function, and tumors ma...[Read More] Exploring Additional Tests for Persistent Low Hemoglobin in Diabetic Patients
Understanding Eye Health: Redness and Yellowing of the Sclera
Issues with the sclera? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about something. While taking a shower, I looked at my eyes and noticed some blood vessels in the corners, and I’m not sure if they appear slightly yellowish. I read online that yellowing of the sclera can indicate liver o...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I think it's okay. If you're concerned, you can consult a hepatobiliary and gastroenterology specialist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is here to support you.[Read More] Understanding Eye Health: Redness and Yellowing of the Sclera
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello, doctor. I am 42 years old and have been experiencing occasional dull pain in my sacroiliac joint for the past six months. I have seen both orthopedic and rehabilitation specialists without any improvement. One day, I woke up at 4 AM due ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Am I certain that I have ankylosing spondylitis? --> Currently, the diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis requires not only blood tests but also clinical symptoms. The absence of nighttime back pain is somewhat unusu...[Read More] Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?
Autoimmune diseases Hello, Director Gao. I would like to ask you a question. Previously, I experienced full-body itching and developed hives whenever I returned home. After seeing a doctor, I took antihistamines for over a month, and now I no longer itch, but I still occasionally...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. An ANA titer of 1:80 is considered low, and if there are no symptoms, we usually recommend monitoring. 2. In cases of chronic urticaria, we sometimes test for syphilis, as untreated syphilis infection can lead to prolo...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?
Understanding Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Blood Tests and Symptoms Explained
Rheumatoid-related inquiries? Hello, Dr. Gao. I previously asked you about rheumatoid-related issues (pain in both wrists) on September 11. The blood test results are out, and I also had an X-ray of my hands. The rheumatologist said there were no issues. I would like to ask you a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: Question 1: In the case of early rheumatoid arthritis, is it possible for blood test results to be normal and X-rays to show no signs? --> Yes, that can happen. Question 2: What does the quantitative result in the b...[Read More] Understanding Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Blood Tests and Symptoms Explained
Low C3 Levels and Edema: Exploring Potential Causes and Next Steps
Edema examination shows low C3 levels? Stage I thyroid cancer, right thyroidectomy medication: OncoTect 50mg/day. Received one dose of the AZ vaccine, experienced adverse effects after a full meal, and has not been diagnosed since May due to lower limb edema. Consulted at the Int...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. There are no specific issues with immune function, and a decrease in C3 does not have particular significance. It is recommended to continue monitoring with the Metabolism Department. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Chang...[Read More] Low C3 Levels and Edema: Exploring Potential Causes and Next Steps
Impact of Delayed Testing After Insulin Injection: What to Expect
Needle stick injury without testing for more than six months? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask if, after more than six months since the injection, a recent blood test can show negative or positive results without prior testing. The injection was done with an insulin needle, and ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, it is essential to identify which patient the needle belongs to and whether they have any bloodborne infectious diseases, such as HBV, HCV, HIV, or syphilis. 2. Since the window period has already passed, testing at this point can determine if there is an infection. 3. ...[Read More] Impact of Delayed Testing After Insulin Injection: What to Expect
Understanding Red Flags on Your Health Check Report: Expert Advice
Inquiry about the red text on the health check-up report? Hello Dr. Lin: I just received my health check report and noticed some red flags that are causing me a lot of concern. I would like to ask if there are any of these red flags that can be improved through daily habits, such...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the MCH value is primarily for reference; any issues related to anemia should be assessed based on hemoglobin (Hb) levels. Urinary ketones may test positive after prolonged fasting, and the presence of leukocyte esterase in urine suggests a possible urinary tract inflammat...[Read More] Understanding Red Flags on Your Health Check Report: Expert Advice
Managing Autoimmune Disorders: Medication Concerns and Heart Health
Medication issues I would like to ask about my situation. After abnormal ANA antibody results from a blood test, I underwent several examinations. Initially, I tested positive for Sjögren's syndrome antibodies, and recently, due to severe Raynaud's phenomenon, I also te...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe that Puda tablets are quite safe medications. Although there is a very small chance of cardiac side effects, they should not affect heart rhythm. If it is just early contractions, I think it is not a concern. However, if there are ind...[Read More] Managing Autoimmune Disorders: Medication Concerns and Heart Health
Understanding Foamy Urine: Causes, Concerns, and Kidney Health
Foamy urine issue Hello, Doctor: For the past month or so, I have noticed small bubbles in my urine (sometimes a whole patch when it's severe), most of which disperse and disappear within five minutes, but sometimes a little bit remains for a long time. Additionally, I have ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Ms. Huang: The normal value for urinary protein is less than or equal to 150 mg per day. The report for urinary protein can be presented in two ways: one is as a concentration value, such as 100 mg/dL, and the other is as a number of "+" signs, such as "2+&qu...[Read More] Understanding Foamy Urine: Causes, Concerns, and Kidney Health
Is a Fasting Blood Sugar of 90 mg/dL Considered High?
A fasting blood glucose level of 90 mg/dL is generally considered to be within the normal range. However, it is important to interpret this value in the context of individual health conditions and risk factors for diabetes? Hello doctor, is a fasting blood sugar level of 90 consi...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
A level below 100 is considered normal. If there is a family history of diabetes or issues with being overweight, it is advisable to test for glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Is a Fasting Blood Sugar of 90 mg/dL Considered High?
Understanding Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Next Steps
Suspected ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, I am 28 years old. Initially, six months ago, after a full-body adjustment, I started experiencing stiffness and pain in my back upon waking up, particularly in the upper back (with no issues in the lower back). After stretching in...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Do I have ankylosing spondylitis? --> It would be helpful to check for HLA-B27. Your symptoms have persisted for a while, and chronic lower back pain in young individuals warrants caution regarding ankylosing spondy...[Read More] Understanding Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count and Elevated LDH Levels
Low white blood cell count, elevated LDH? Hello, doctor. Recently, I had a check-up at the clinic in June, where my white blood cell count was 4,200, with neutrophils at 46% (highlighted in red), lymphocytes at 42.6% (highlighted in red), monocytes at 7.4%, eosinophils at 2.8%, a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Looking solely at the blood cell count from a blood test is not very accurate. I would recommend that a hematologist examine your lymph nodes, as the diagnosis of lymphoma requires at least a physical examination of the lymph nodes. Additionall...[Read More] Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count and Elevated LDH Levels
Can You Contract HIV from a Needle Stick Injury on a Motorcycle Seat?
Transmission routes of HIV (needle stick) If I was injured by a needle on the seat of a motorcycle while moving it in the morning, and if that needle had HIV-infected blood on it, would I be at risk of contracting HIV from the injury? Why or why not?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) data: 1. There are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any other exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected...[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from a Needle Stick Injury on a Motorcycle Seat?
Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Inquiry about Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello, Doctor. Over the past two to three years, I have frequently experienced skin allergies (rashes). When I am back in my hometown (Miaoli), my condition improves significantly during my vacation, but it immediately relapses when I return to ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. For someone like me who experiences long-term allergies that recur, could it be due to environmental factors, stress, or irregular lifestyle? What should I pay attention to or how can I improve? --> All three fact...[Read More] Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Cholesterol Levels: Understanding Medication Impact and Testing Accuracy
Cholesterol levels were high before medication, but normalized after treatment? Hello Doctor, last month I had a non-fasting blood test at a general clinic, and the results showed total cholesterol 395, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) 312, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) 70. Lat...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello, a total cholesterol level of 395 and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) of 312 is quite uncommon. After three weeks of medication, your total cholesterol dropped to 185, LDL to 112, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) to 64, which is also an unusual decrease. Other values are no...[Read More] Cholesterol Levels: Understanding Medication Impact and Testing Accuracy
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Unknown Blood Exposure
Risk of HIV Infection Hello Dr. Lin, today after washing my clothes, I noticed a few small dried blood stains on them while hanging them out to dry. I absentmindedly picked at them, but I couldn't confirm if the blood was mine, as I hadn't noticed it before. Later, I we...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, viruses die quickly outside the human body and are unlikely to remain on dried blood stains. It is even more difficult for them to be transmitted by touching your hands, then touching a tissue, and subsequently coming into contact with the urethra. There is no need to worr...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Unknown Blood Exposure