Risks of Hair Salon Razors: Can You Contract HIV or STDs?
Razor used in hair salons? Hello, Director. When I went to the hair salon for a haircut, the stylist used a razor at the end to shape my face. The previous user had their service about 2-3 minutes before me, and the stylist did not disinfect the razor after use. After getting my ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk...[Read More] Risks of Hair Salon Razors: Can You Contract HIV or STDs?
Understanding Rising Urine Protein Levels: What You Need to Know
The urinary protein index has surged? Hello, Doctor. Below are the results from my visit to Hospital B on the evening of March 14 this year. The random urine test results were as follows: Urine Creatinine: 93.4 mg/dL; Micro Albumin: 25.7 * mg/dL (Random Urine < 1.9 mg/dL); Uri...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
The presence of bubbles in urine does not necessarily indicate proteinuria; factors such as fever, excessive exercise, consumption of high animal protein, hormonal influences, or other diseases causing abnormal protein production can also be responsible. Even if tests do not show...[Read More] Understanding Rising Urine Protein Levels: What You Need to Know
Understanding Adrenal Tumors: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Specialist Guidance
Adrenal tumor Doctor Ping An: I went to the emergency room on April 4 due to vomiting, where I had an abdominal X-ray and a CT scan of the right abdomen. The doctor informed me that the CT scan revealed a 2 cm tumor on my adrenal gland, and I need to return for follow-up. They re...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Incidentaloma refers to an adrenal tumor that is discovered incidentally, typically when it is larger than 4 centimeters. It is important to determine whether the tumor is functional. Functional adrenal tumors may cause secondary hypertension, and surgical removal is recommended ...[Read More] Understanding Adrenal Tumors: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Specialist Guidance
Should You Get Tested for HIV After Potential Exposure? A Guide
HIV Infection Counseling - Exposure Hello, doctor. First of all, thank you for your attention. About a year ago, I masturbated in a public restroom and, in a moment of urgency, I couldn't find any toilet paper, so I used some tissue from the trash can to wipe my glans after ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
There are three main routes of transmission for the HIV virus: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infection. B. Blood transmission: (1) Receiving or coming in...[Read More] Should You Get Tested for HIV After Potential Exposure? A Guide
Should You Get Tested for HIV After Potential Exposure?
HIV Infection Counseling - Exposure Hello Doctor, first of all, thank you for your time. About a year ago, I masturbated in a public restroom and, in a moment of urgency, I couldn't find any toilet paper, so I used the tissue from the trash can to wipe my glans after ejacula...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
There are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. 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. B. Blood transmission: (1) Receiving or coming into contact w...[Read More] Should You Get Tested for HIV After Potential Exposure?
Understanding Gout Diagnosis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management
Gout Diagnosis Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to respond to my questions. I really appreciate it! I am a 34-year-old male, 175 cm tall, weighing 93 kg. I do not drink alcohol but often stay up late. I have gastroesophageal reflux disease and a duodenal ulcer, for which I ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is swelling and redness always present in gout? I had pain in my knee at that time, but there was no swelling or redness; can that still be considered gout? --> Most of the time, yes, but some patients may not exhi...[Read More] Understanding Gout Diagnosis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management
Unexplained Blisters and Weakness in Legs: Possible Causes and Solutions
Weakness in the feet accompanied by unexplained blisters? Dear Dr. Lin, My mother is 58 years old. Over the past six months, she has experienced weakness in her legs (mainly feeling unsteady while walking, as if she is walking on cotton). In the last three months, she has develo...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: It is difficult to determine the issue based solely on this information. I recommend separating the concerns of foot weakness and blisters. For foot weakness, it is indeed advisable to consult a neurologist, preferably at a regional hospital or higher, as they can arrange ...[Read More] Unexplained Blisters and Weakness in Legs: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Antinuclear Antibodies: Concerns and Questions for Young Adults
Inquiry about blood test results? Dear Doctor, I currently have no immune-related symptoms, but I am concerned about the presence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in my blood test results. I would like to ask you some related questions. Recently, my blood test report showed an AN...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. Is there a possibility of developing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the future? --> Currently, it seems unlikely. 2. An antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer of 1:80 was detected, but all specific antibodies rel...[Read More] Understanding Antinuclear Antibodies: Concerns and Questions for Young Adults
Understanding Thyroid Issues: Low Free T4 and TSH Levels Explained
Thyroid issues Hello, doctor. I am 20 years old, with a height of 160 cm and a weight of about 48 kg. I have lost 10 kg in just one year. Recently, I had a blood test for my thyroid, and my Free T4 level was 0.76 and my TSH level was 0.695, both of which appear to be low. I did s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if you have hyperthyroidism, free T4 levels would be elevated and TSH levels would be decreased. Conversely, if you have hypothyroidism, the opposite would be true. Your blood test results suggest that your significant weight loss may not be due to a thyroid issue. I would...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Issues: Low Free T4 and TSH Levels Explained
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Treatment Options and Patient Concerns
Ankylosing spondylitis Dear Doctor: I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, diagnosed for 2.5 years, and I am currently 18.8 years old. I have been managing my condition with NSAIDs and have been unable to discontinue them. I would like to ask the following questions: 1) Gen...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
1) Biological agents tend to be more effective and are easier to achieve stable drug withdrawal. 2) For a 19-year-old, there are no specific recommendations; a general chest X-ray and electrocardiogram are sufficient. 3) It does not necessarily increase. 4) A temporary paus...[Read More] Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Treatment Options and Patient Concerns
Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Next Steps
A white blood cell count of 12.7 is considered elevated. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of the increased white blood cell count. Possible causes may include infections, inflammation, stress Hello Doctor, I have iron def...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the gingival inflammation you mentioned can lead to an increase in white blood cell count. If the teeth have already been extracted, the white blood cell count should decrease. Regarding the DC you mentioned, it refers to the differential count of white blood cells, which ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Next Steps
Does Acne Affect ESR Levels in Young Patients?
Can acne cause an increase in ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate)? Hello Doctor: I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and I am 19 years old. Although I take my medication regularly, during my follow-up blood tests, I notice that my CRP levels are relatively stable and wel...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. ESR and CRP are different; they are indirect markers of inflammation and can be influenced by many factors. In principle, your physician will evaluate whether an elevated ESR is truly related to disease activity. Severe acne can also be complic...[Read More] Does Acne Affect ESR Levels in Young Patients?
Understanding Elevated RF Levels: Implications for Autoimmune Disorders
Rheumatoid factor (RF) is elevated in rheumatoid arthritis? Hello Doctor, I have had an allergic constitution since childhood and have been receiving treatment in the rheumatology and immunology department for long-term issues related to my nose and urticaria. During my last visi...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If the test results mentioned above are all the examinations you have undergone, I believe there are additional tests that can be arranged. If you are very concerned and unsure about whether to take quinine, I suggest you consult another rheumat...[Read More] Understanding Elevated RF Levels: Implications for Autoimmune Disorders
Understanding Rising Cholesterol Levels: Key Factors and Next Steps
Elevated total cholesterol? Hello, doctor. Recently, during my follow-up visit for my thyroid condition, the hospital conducted blood tests that included cholesterol and triglyceride levels. I have previously done blood tests myself and noticed that my total cholesterol has been ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Currently, the levels do not appear to be high, so there is no need for excessive concern. Triglycerides may be influenced by recent dietary intake, leading to fluctuations. Some medicinal fish oils can help lower triglyceride levels.[Read More] Understanding Rising Cholesterol Levels: Key Factors and Next Steps
Consulting Your Doctor: Blood Tests and Quinine Treatment Insights
Medication consultation, laboratory consultation? Thank you for your response, Doctor. I would like to ask, in addition to the blood tests I previously underwent, what other tests would you recommend to confirm whether I need to start treatment with quinine? By the way, I have be...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. You might want to ask your physician whether you need to test for SSA/SSB, CCP or ACPA, ESR, etc. Quinine can be discontinued at any time. Quinine may cause headaches as a side effect, while dizziness is rare, and visual disturbances are a "...[Read More] Consulting Your Doctor: Blood Tests and Quinine Treatment Insights
Can Red Yeast Rice and Nitric Oxide Supplements Be Safe with Blood Pressure Meds?
Antihypertensive medications, red yeast rice, and nitric oxide? My husband is 43 years old and has been taking blood pressure medication (Lisinopril and Amlodipine) for about six months. Can he take red yeast rice or nitric oxide-related health supplements?
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Since we are unable to ascertain the current health status of the gentleman, it is recommended to bring the dietary supplements he wishes to take to his regular outpatient physician for consultation. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can Red Yeast Rice and Nitric Oxide Supplements Be Safe with Blood Pressure Meds?
Understanding HIV Variants: Can Rapid Tests Detect All Types?
HIV-1, HIV-2, latest mutation VB Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about the recent HIV variant VB. Is it classified as a mutation of HIV-1? Can our current blood and oral rapid tests detect all types of HIV variants (including HIV-1, HIV-2, and VB)? The rapid tests indicate...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Yes, it belongs to the HIV-1, subtype B variant (which is prevalent in Europe, particularly in the Netherlands, with at least 109 cases reported). 2. The currently used testing tools can still detect the VB mutant. 3. The VB mutant is characterized by causing infected indivi...[Read More] Understanding HIV Variants: Can Rapid Tests Detect All Types?
Understanding Your HIV Test Results: What Does a 0.184 Value Mean?
HIV testing issues Hello doctor, I went to the hospital for a blood test to check for HIV using the ELISA method due to some issues (definitely not related to casual encounters or needle exposure). My test result was 0.184. I would like to know if this indicates a possible infect...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
The methods for HIV testing are as follows: (I) Preliminary Screening Tests 1. Prior to screening, health education should be provided, including: reasons for screening, assessment of infection risk, explanation of transmission routes, clarification of confidentiality regarding ...[Read More] Understanding Your HIV Test Results: What Does a 0.184 Value Mean?
Should Stable Type 2 Diabetes Patients Continue Visiting Medical Centers?
Do patients with stable type 2 diabetes still need to continue follow-up visits at a medical center? Hello Doctor, I apologize for the interruption! I would like to ask you a question. I have been living with type 2 diabetes for over seven years. After discovering this issue duri...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If blood sugar levels can be consistently controlled, it is recommended that you transfer to a primary care medical facility for management. It is best to choose a facility that has a physician specializing in metabolic disorders or one that is part of a diabetes collaborative ca...[Read More] Should Stable Type 2 Diabetes Patients Continue Visiting Medical Centers?
Concerns About Blood in Urine and HIV Infection Risk
Questions about blood infections? Hello, today after using the restroom, I noticed something red at the bottom of the urinal that looked like blood. Doctor, if there are viruses like HIV on it and urine splashes onto my genitals, is there a risk of infection? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you described does not pose a risk for HIV infection, so there is no need to worry. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Concerns About Blood in Urine and HIV Infection Risk