Understanding Thyroid Blood Test Results: TSH, T4, and Autoantibodies Explained
Thyroid blood test report Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about my blood test results: TSH 1.480 (normal range 0.27-4.20), T4 1.120 (normal range 0.89-1.8), ATA 53.9 (normal range <115), TPO Ab 247 (normal range <34). The doctor mentioned that I have chronic inflammat...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If antibody positive, monitor thyroid function at least once a year. If there are abnormalities in thyroid function, consider treatment. Avoid iodine-rich foods such as kelp, seaweed, and nori as much as possible.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Blood Test Results: TSH, T4, and Autoantibodies Explained
Understanding the Connection Between Nasal Congestion and Rapid Heart Rate
Tachycardia and nasal congestion? Since I was diagnosed last year, I have been experiencing a profound sense of nasal congestion. There have been several instances where I felt close to suffocating and had to go to the emergency room. I have undergone numerous internal medicine e...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding the issue of rapid heartbeat, most nasal decongestants, including some cold medications, can have the side effect of increased heart rate. This is something to be aware of. If drug side effects are ruled out, it may be necessary to check for arrhythmias. If arrhy...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Nasal Congestion and Rapid Heart Rate
Understanding Raynaud's and Scleroderma: Challenges in Major Illness Claims
Raynaud's phenomenon and scleroderma are considered significant illnesses that are not eligible for disability claims? Hello, Doctor Gao. After being diagnosed with COVID-19 this year, I suddenly noticed abnormalities in my fingers. After researching online, I found informat...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The treatment for scleroderma is primarily based on the extent of its impact on vital organs. If you only have Raynaud's phenomenon with mild symptoms, you might want to discuss with your physician the necessity of using off-label medicati...[Read More] Understanding Raynaud's and Scleroderma: Challenges in Major Illness Claims
Can You Get Hepatitis B from Scratching Your Ear After Driving?
Possible infection Hello Doctor, I would like to ask a question. A relative of mine has hepatitis B, and after using his car and navigating for him, I scratched my ear with the same hand. Although my ear did not bleed, I accidentally scratched it a bit harder in the morning, and ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the ear pulling condition you mentioned will not lead to a hepatitis B infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can You Get Hepatitis B from Scratching Your Ear After Driving?
Can Hemodialysis Treat High Cholesterol by Filtering Excess Fats?
Hemodialysis Can blood dialysis be used to treat conditions similar to hyperlipidemia, such as filtering excess fats from the blood?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, currently some people are attempting to do this, but the disadvantages outweigh the benefits because hemodialysis can pose life-threatening risks, and most of the body's fat is located in the visceral area rather than in the blood, making it difficult to remove. Thank...[Read More] Can Hemodialysis Treat High Cholesterol by Filtering Excess Fats?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about something that happened to me yesterday. Before going to bed, I suddenly felt bloated in my stomach. I managed to fall asleep, but I woke up in the middle of the night feeling uncomfortable and had to have a bowel mo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems to be acute gastroenteritis. As for whether it is caused by norovirus, testing may be needed to confirm. However, the management typically involves a bland diet, plenty of rest, and increased fluid intake, which should lead to gradual im...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Venous Blood Gas Analysis: Key Insights for Respiratory Issues
Venous Blood Gas Analysis Report 112/01/25 ABE 7.61 112/01/25 HCO3 32.9 112/01/25 O2CT 17.2 112/01/25 PCO2 49.1 112/01/25 pH 7.430 112/01/25 PO2 41.3 112/01/25 SAT 77.0 112/01/25 SBC 30.8 112/01/25 SBE 8.4 112/01/25 TCO2 34.4 Doctor, this is my venous blood g...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is not possible to determine pulmonary obstruction or embolism solely based on venous blood oxygen levels. It is recommended to visit a pulmonology clinic for a chest X-ray, followed by further relevant tests such as pulmonary function tests or lung perfusion scans. Tha...[Read More] Understanding Venous Blood Gas Analysis: Key Insights for Respiratory Issues
Understanding Reactive Arthritis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Family Links
Leigh syndrome Hello Doctor, after a cold, I experienced pain at the insertion point of the Achilles tendon, which gradually developed into pain in the soles of my feet and in the joints of my hands. There is no redness or swelling in the joints. After an examination by the immun...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Many of my painful areas are symmetrical, but isn't reactive arthritis primarily asymmetrical? --> Yes, it is. However, whether arthritis is symmetrical or not is not a necessary criterion for diagnosing reac...[Read More] Understanding Reactive Arthritis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Family Links
Post-Surgery Complications: When to See a Gastroenterologist or Immunologist?
Please specify the medical specialty and medication you would like to inquire about? Two months ago, I underwent electrosurgical treatment for colon swelling, measuring 8 cm. The postoperative recovery was normal; however, one month after the surgery, I experienced intestinal dam...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
It is recommended that you first consult a gastroenterologist. If necessary, the gastroenterologist will advise whether to see a rheumatologist for further evaluation. Please do not self-medicate. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Post-Surgery Complications: When to See a Gastroenterologist or Immunologist?
Understanding the Causes of Painless Red Spots on Skin
Small red spots appear on the skin? Since the beginning of the year, I have been experiencing painless and itchless small red spots under the skin (which disappear when pressed). Blood tests for platelet count and liver function (including tests for sexually transmitted diseases)...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
It is recommended to visit a dermatologist. If blood tests are normal and there is no diagnosis, a biopsy may be considered for further differential diagnosis. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Painless Red Spots on Skin
Understanding the Link Between Proteinuria and Osteolytic Lesions
The relationship between proteinuria and osteolytic lesions? Hello, Doctor Wu. Happy Day Six of the Lunar New Year. Following up on my previous question, I will be undergoing a PET scan. I have been diagnosed with stage I papillary thyroid carcinoma (currently no longer classifie...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Your question is too complex; please discuss it with your nephrologist. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Proteinuria and Osteolytic Lesions
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Blood Exposure
Blood infection Hello Dr. Hong: I apologize for bothering you. Today, when I went to change my sanitary pad, I wrapped the used one and placed it on top of the tissue box. When I was about to throw it away, I thought to myself that I wasn't sure if it was mine, so I careless...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is unlikely to result in an HIV infection, so there is no need for post-exposure prophylaxis at this time. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Blood Exposure
Understanding Immune System Abnormalities: T Cells and B Cells Explained
Immune system Hello, Director. Recently, a chest CT scan suggested possible pulmonary tuberculosis, leading to blood tests and bronchoscopy: anaerobic bacteria (+), tuberculosis DNA test (-), T Cell (CD3): 93.0, B Cell (CD19): 2.6, T Cell (CD4+): 54.4. Could you please explain wh...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, these questions may need to be directed to the physician who arranged your tests! The interpretation of these data requires a comprehensive evaluation, as the lymphocyte count must be compared with other white blood cell types; looking at the absolute value alone does not ...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Abnormalities: T Cells and B Cells Explained
Is It Possible to Still Be HIV Infected After a Year?
Is it still possible to be infected with HIV? A year ago, I had unprotected oral sex with a woman. Afterward, I was worried about HIV infection, so I went to Cheng Kung University for a blood test at the tenth week. During the follow-up appointment, the doctor said everything was...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the chance of infection is indeed very low. If you are still very concerned, you may consider getting retested. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Is It Possible to Still Be HIV Infected After a Year?
Risk of Hepatitis B Transmission After Accidental Blood Exposure
Hepatitis B transmission issues? Hello, doctor: I have received the hepatitis B vaccine and have tested positive for antibodies (surface antibody 81, core antibody 0.10). A few days ago, while changing the dressing for an uncle with liver cirrhosis at the hospital, I accidentally...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/Page/jlS2jBHpodI34ATlKUy3oQ): (1) Mode of Transmission: Hepatitis B surface antigen can be found in body fluids and secretions, but only blood, semen, and vaginal secretions are inf...[Read More] Risk of Hepatitis B Transmission After Accidental Blood Exposure
Understanding Changes in Creatinine and GFR: What You Need to Know
Creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) can vary significantly? In 2020, after a 12-hour fasting test, the results showed a creatinine level of 0.80 and a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 121. In 2023, after having a meal at around 1 PM, doing strength training and aer...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Creatinine levels are related to diet, including meat intake and hydration. It is recommended to fast for 8 hours prior to testing. To accurately assess kidney function, meat consumption should not be excessive. A comparison of results is necessary to determine if there has been ...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Creatinine and GFR: What You Need to Know
Recovery from Marine Vibrio Infection After Fish Sting: A Patient's Journey
I am currently abroad and would like to inquire about the recovery situation for Vibrio parahaemolyticus infections? Hello Doctor, I am currently in Oman (as of February 15). On February 11 at 3 PM, while diving to catch fish, I accidentally got stung on the back of my hand by a ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the antibiotic you were prescribed is a first-generation antibiotic for general cellulitis. However, based on your images, it does appear to have improved. As for the pain or pigmentation changes, these are likely residual symptoms of cellulitis. Please be cautious and che...[Read More] Recovery from Marine Vibrio Infection After Fish Sting: A Patient's Journey
Can Gout Recur Days After First Attack in Patients with No History?
Is it possible for someone with no history of gout to experience a recurrence of symptoms just a few days after the first attack? Hello Doctor, thank you for taking the time to answer my questions. My mother, who is 72 years old, has high blood pressure and her height is 153 cm w...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Gout can indeed have recurrent attacks in a short period of time. Gout attacks typically present with redness and heat, so the absence of these symptoms does lower the likelihood. Eating shiitake mushrooms is fine, and consuming fish is also ac...[Read More] Can Gout Recur Days After First Attack in Patients with No History?
Understanding Elevated Mono Levels: When to Seek Medical Advice
Abnormal blood test results? Hello Doctor, I had a blood test a few days ago and found that my Mono level is 11.4, which is above the normal range, while other parameters are normal. I would like to ask what this might indicate and which specialty I should consult? Background: ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, MONO (mononuclear cells) levels may fluctuate due to physical conditions, disease factors, or medications. However, since subsequent values are gradually returning to normal, it is likely in the recovery phase. It is recommended to continue monitoring the indices, and if a...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Mono Levels: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
Autoimmune diseases Hello Doctor: I recently underwent blood tests for my immune system, and the results are as follows: IgE: 1075, C3: 111.6, C4: 30.9, Anti-dsDNA Ab: Interpretation: Negative, Anti-dsDNA Ab: Reactivity: 0.94, EJ: Negative, Jo-1: Negative, Ku: Negative, MDA5: Neg...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Your dsDNA and SRP results are both positive, and it is important to discuss these findings with your physician to confirm the diagnosis. The diagnosis of autoimmune diseases requires not only blood test results but also consideration of clinica...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results