Understanding Urinary Tract Infections and Persistent Back Pain
Urinary tract infection and subsequent lower back pain follow-up? Hello, I have already gone to a large hospital for examination due to concerns about bacteremia. After blood tests, urinalysis, X-rays, and kidney ultrasounds, the doctor said there were no significant issues. Howe...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if these tests have been done, it will take some time to improve. It is recommended to drink plenty of water and get more rest. However, if you suddenly experience a fever or increased pain later on, you will need to return to a major hospital for a detailed examination. T...[Read More] Understanding Urinary Tract Infections and Persistent Back Pain
Understanding Urinary Tract Infections and Associated Back Pain
Urinary tract infection and subsequent lower back pain? Due to a urinary tract infection, I have been undergoing medication treatment for 12 days. The first 10 days included three medications: Paran (Panadol), Ikodin, and Urogen. However, since the treatment effects were limited,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it's difficult to say that lower back pain is definitely due to a kidney infection, as muscle strains can also cause back pain. This aspect requires a physician's direct assessment for a more accurate diagnosis. If a urinary tract infection is accompanied by bact...[Read More] Understanding Urinary Tract Infections and Associated Back Pain
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Which Specialist to Consult?
Blood report Due to work requirements, I underwent a health check, and the report indicates abnormalities in the blood test results! White blood cells: 10.53, Red blood cells: 5.22, Hemoglobin: 11.6, Platelets: 414. Which specialty should I consult for these abnormal indicators? ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, you are likely referring to a slightly elevated white blood cell count and a slightly low hemoglobin level, correct? For the white blood cell count, the normal range for healthy individuals is approximately 3.0-10.0. Your level is only slightly elevated, which could be due...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding Low Glomerular Filtration Rate: Testing and Insights
Reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR)? I am 28 years old and have had two kidney function tests at the hospital, both showing an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of around 80. In November 2020, my creatinine level was 1.06 with an eGFR of 89.76. In November 2021, my...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Mr. Yang: "Further precise" direct "verification of kidney function" >> I believe it is not as important as -- how to maintain (protect) kidney health (kidney function) >> Indeed, direct testing of kidney function is still not widely availabl...[Read More] Understanding Low Glomerular Filtration Rate: Testing and Insights
Understanding Short-Term Joint and Back Pain: When to Consider Medication
Pain in the limbs and back? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing upper back pain, pain in the finger joints and fingertips, pain in the toes, knee pain, and occasional elbow pain for the past 1 to 2 months. This past month, I went to a large hospital for examinations. The docto...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Some young individuals do experience intermittent joint effusion, with symptoms that come and go, often lasting no more than three days. In such cases, we generally first check for any serious rheumatic diseases behind these symptoms, as your p...[Read More] Understanding Short-Term Joint and Back Pain: When to Consider Medication
Understanding Sudden Dizziness: Causes and Concerns in Cold Weather
Occasionally, there is a sensation of dizziness or heaviness? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask why sometimes when the weather is cold, I suddenly feel a sense of dizziness or heaviness for about 1-2 seconds. Although it doesn't feel like spinning or nausea, I initially tho...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, what you mentioned is known as orthostatic hypotension, which commonly occurs with sudden changes in posture or changes in surrounding temperature that cause a temporary drop in blood pressure. This is a physiological response. To improve this condition, it is advisable to...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Dizziness: Causes and Concerns in Cold Weather
Can You Get STDs from Contaminated Water? Understanding the Risks
Questions related to the possibility of syphilis or sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? If there was a small amount of contaminated blood in the bucket and after about an hour, you filled it with water without rinsing it out, then spilled it on your foot where you later disco...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned does not pose a risk for HIV, syphilis, or gonorrhea. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can You Get STDs from Contaminated Water? Understanding the Risks
Managing Glucose Intolerance: Dietary Adjustments and Lifestyle Changes
Glucose Tolerance Abnormality and Dietary Adjustments Hello, doctor. I am the person who asked about the elevated fasting blood glucose level (#189944). Recently, my OGTT results came back with fasting: 911, 1-hour: 1822, 2-hour: 1263, and 3-hour: 61, indicating impaired glucose ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
1. Clinical diagnostic criteria for diabetes: Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) ≥ 6.5%, fasting plasma glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL, 2-hour plasma glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL during an oral glucose tolerance test, or symptoms of hyperglycemia (including polyuria, polydipsia, and weight loss) with a random p...[Read More] Managing Glucose Intolerance: Dietary Adjustments and Lifestyle Changes
Understanding Kidney Function: GFR and Creatinine Levels Explained
Kidney examination issues? I would like to ask the doctor: I am 48 years old. I went to the hospital for a blood test, and the results showed a creatinine level of 0.92, with an estimated GFR of 60 (88 is for reference) ml/min/1.73㎡. Is the glomerular filtration rate 88? Is my ki...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: This kidney function report is within the normal range.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function: GFR and Creatinine Levels Explained
Which Test is Best for Detecting Heavy Metal Poisoning: Hair, Blood, or Urine?
To determine if there is heavy metal poisoning, one should check hair, blood, or urine. Which one is appropriate? Hello, doctor. I have frequently been exposed to various strange pigments in the past, which contained heavy metals, but I have not been exposed for a long time. If I...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, different heavy metals have different detection methods, but most can be assessed through blood tests and urine tests to determine their levels.[Read More] Which Test is Best for Detecting Heavy Metal Poisoning: Hair, Blood, or Urine?
Understanding Chronic Loose Stools: IBS and Gastrointestinal Concerns
I have been experiencing issues with frequent loose stools? Hello, doctor. I started experiencing diarrhea and almost daily soft stools (with a slight shape, small lumps) at the beginning of the year. Later, during a health check, I had a positive fecal occult blood test. Followi...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: It may be an issue related to irritable bowel syndrome. Since the colonoscopy results are normal, you might consider starting medication to see if your symptoms improve. If you frequently experience acid reflux, it would also be advisable to undergo an upper endoscopy. Tha...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Loose Stools: IBS and Gastrointestinal Concerns
Can STDs Spread Through Contaminated Showerheads? Prevention Tips
Questions about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) If a person with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as HIV, syphilis, or gonorrhea shaves in the bathroom and there is a trace of blood contamination on the showerhead, can another person become infected if they use ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you described, where a small amount of blood sprays outside, is unlikely to pose an infection risk after a short period of time. It should not lead to the transmission of the sexually transmitted infections you mentioned. As for the showerhead, it is advisabl...[Read More] Can STDs Spread Through Contaminated Showerheads? Prevention Tips
Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Concerns
Fasting blood glucose levels are elevated? On October 14, 2021, I went to the emergency room due to discomfort from vaccine side effects, around 8 PM after dinner, feeling very anxious (due to chest pain). The emergency department recorded a blood glucose level of 171. A few days...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Fasting blood glucose greater than 100 mg/dL or hemoglobin A1c greater than 5.6% indicates prediabetes. Low-dose mirtazapine is not commonly associated with hyperglycemia. Maintaining proper dietary control and lifestyle adjustments is key. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Health Tips for a 34-Year-Old
The health check report shows a creatinine level of 1.31? Dear Doctor, I am 34 years old. My health check report from October 4, 2022, shows a BMI of 22.4, a waist circumference of 77 cm, a creatinine level of 1.31, and a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 66.57. There is no pro...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello HEBE: "Creatinine 1.31, Glomerular Filtration Rate 66.57." You can follow up at the nephrology outpatient clinic. Additionally, regarding "daily diet/lifestyle," it is recommended to measure your blood pressure daily, avoid excessive salt intake, limit f...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Health Tips for a 34-Year-Old
Is It Safe for My Diabetic Grandpa to Sleep In? Health Implications Explained
Is it okay for my grandfather with diabetes to sleep until he wakes up naturally, even if that means sleeping until noon or later? Hello Dr. Lee, my grandfather is 80 years old and has been a long-term diabetes patient (with a 40-year history). Two years ago, he had a stroke that...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Regarding sleep issues in the elderly and cerebral circulation problems, it is advisable to consult a neurologist. However, if there is a tendency to wake up late, one should be aware of the possibility of hypoglycemia during sleep. If waking up around noon, it may be necessary t...[Read More] Is It Safe for My Diabetic Grandpa to Sleep In? Health Implications Explained
Is High HDL Cholesterol Really Safe? Understanding Your Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol issues Recently, blood tests showed triglycerides at 67 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol at 133 mg/dL, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol at 150 mg/dL, and total cholesterol at 273 mg/dL. The ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol is 2.1...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Some studies have shown that excessively high levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol may be detrimental to health. Elevated HDL cholesterol levels can actually increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, other research has found that having to...[Read More] Is High HDL Cholesterol Really Safe? Understanding Your Cholesterol Levels
Understanding Thrombocytopenia and Acquired Hemolytic Anemia: Treatment Options Explained
Thrombocytopenia and acquired hemolytic anemia? Hello Dr. Gao: In 2019, I discovered many small bruises on my body. After an examination at a clinic, it was found that my platelet count was only 9,000. I was urgently sent to a large hospital's emergency department, and after...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Splenectomy is indeed one of the treatment options for refractory thrombocytopenia. You may want to consult a second physician to re-evaluate any underlying possible autoimmune diseases. If it is confirmed to be immune thrombocytopenia, in addi...[Read More] Understanding Thrombocytopenia and Acquired Hemolytic Anemia: Treatment Options Explained
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire whether my symptoms could be diagnosed as arthritis. At the end of October: I felt an unusual sensation when bending my hands. At the beginning of November: I experienced an unusual sensation in my big toe, and my knees h...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe further monitoring is appropriate. Although the RF value is abnormal, it is not significantly elevated, and with normal CCP levels, I think tracking is sufficient. If ANA, CRP, and ESR are also normal, the likelihood of severe rheumat...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Risk of HIV Infection from Contact with Fresh Blood: What You Need to Know
HIV infection from wet blood? Today I went to pick up goods at the store and found blood stains on the counter that were still wet! The clerk helped me place the items on the table, and I didn't have time to react (I touched the surface of the table and the goods, which both...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Based on your description, there should be no risk of infection. 2. Since it has dried, the virus is unlikely to remain. 3. This does not constitute a route of infection. 4. The chance of infection through such contact is very low. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Risk of HIV Infection from Contact with Fresh Blood: What You Need to Know
Can You Contract Hepatitis B from Using a Shared Electric Razor?
Transmission of Hepatitis B If your father has hepatitis B and you are using his old electric razor that he washed with water and air-dried (and you are unsure if it was cleaned properly), there is a potential risk of infection. Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with inf...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, theoretically, if an old razor blade does not have fresh blood on it and you have not been cut by the blade, the risk of infection should be minimal. However, sharing razors is still not recommended. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can You Contract Hepatitis B from Using a Shared Electric Razor?