Can Eating Contaminated Food Lead to HIV Infection?
Food does not transmit HIV? Hello, I apologize for the inconvenience. Recently, after sharing a takeout meal with my child, I noticed that part of the food had a strong semen-like odor. If it was indeed semen, I have a sore in my esophagus due to not swallowing my acne medication...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the relevant information from the Centers for Disease Control, 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 ris...[Read More] Can Eating Contaminated Food Lead to HIV Infection?
Concerns About Excess Growth Hormone in a Rapidly Growing Child
Suspected excessive secretion of growth hormone? Hello, my child is 7 years old and is almost 150 cm tall. We have seen a pediatric endocrinologist twice, and they said there is no precocious puberty, but her bone age is advanced by 1 to 2 years. We did a blood test once, and the...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Since your child is only seven years old, it is recommended that you consult a pediatric endocrinologist. Thank you.[Read More] Concerns About Excess Growth Hormone in a Rapidly Growing Child
Understanding Folliculitis: Is That Red Bump on Your Back a Concern?
Is the redness on the back folliculitis? Hello Doctor, I accidentally discovered a small bump on my back that resembled a pimple while taking a shower, and I accidentally popped it. After class today, I visited a dermatologist who said it was just a common folliculitis and that I...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the image, it does appear to be more like folliculitis rather than a sexually transmitted infection. I recommend using the ointment prescribed by your doctor, so there’s no need to worry. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Folliculitis: Is That Red Bump on Your Back a Concern?
Can Sharing a Razor with a Family Member Lead to Infections?
Infection issues I would like to ask the doctor, if I accidentally shared a razor with my dad who does not have hepatitis C or any other known infections, is there a risk of infection? Or is it possible to contract other viruses?
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: The bloodborne infectious diseases that we typically test for include HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Other viruses or bacteria can also be transmitted through blood, but the likelihood or severity of those infections is generally considered negligible. The ri...[Read More] Can Sharing a Razor with a Family Member Lead to Infections?
Navigating Unexplained Symptoms: A Guide to Possible Vasculitis Diagnosis
I'm not sure where to look? The patient has experienced abnormal sensations in the left limb for approximately two years and has had persistent hematuria for over three years, although kidney examinations have returned normal results. There is a mild Raynaud's phenomeno...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Based on your symptoms, I believe it may still be an issue related to immunology or rheumatology. I recommend that you first visit the immunology and rheumatology department at a medical center, where they can arrange for more detailed examinati...[Read More] Navigating Unexplained Symptoms: A Guide to Possible Vasculitis Diagnosis
Understanding Syphilis and HIV Transmission Risks in Everyday Situations
Transmission of Syphilis and HIV 1. If I have eczema on my hands and come into contact with a significant amount of sweat from a person with HIV or syphilis, or if I handle money that has been contaminated with bodily fluids after using the restroom, what is the likelihood of con...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control, HIV is transmitted through contact with blood or bodily fluids (semen, vaginal secretions, breast milk) that come into contact with mucous membranes or open skin. The modes of transmission include: 1. Sexual transmission: En...[Read More] Understanding Syphilis and HIV Transmission Risks in Everyday Situations
Does BNT Vaccine Affect ESR Levels in Patients with Inflammation?
Will the ESR value increase after receiving the BNT vaccine? Hello Doctor! My son is 18 years old and has stiffness. Over the past year, his CRP/ESR levels have been as follows: - 2021/03/31: CRP - 9.6 / ESR - 36 - 2020/12/22: CRP - 11.8 / ESR - 36 - 2020/11/24: CRP - 16.2 / ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Firstly, it is recommended not to monitor CRP and ESR too frequently; generally, checking them every three months is sufficient. These two values naturally fluctuate, and frequent monitoring can lead to difficulties in interpretation and unnece...[Read More] Does BNT Vaccine Affect ESR Levels in Patients with Inflammation?
Understanding Syphilis Rash: Treatment, Recovery, and Concerns
Syphilis rash-related issues? Hello Doctor: I tested positive for syphilis with an RPR of 1:16 in early October and have been taking Doxycycline for four weeks. Prior to treatment, I had four deep red rashes on my palms. During the second to third week of treatment, I experienced...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The presence of a rash does not indicate the effectiveness of treatment; in some cases, the rash may become more pronounced during treatment. It is recommended to follow up three months later for a more accurate assessment of the indicators. 2. It is advisable to di...[Read More] Understanding Syphilis Rash: Treatment, Recovery, and Concerns
Understanding False Positive HIV Test Results: What You Need to Know
Blood test results for HIV are elevated? Hello, doctor. I recently had a health check-up, and the results showed a positive HIV test, which requires retesting. Four months ago, my test results were normal, and I haven't engaged in any activities that could lead to infection ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
A. I tested negative for HIV; why do I need to test again? Answer: If you are in the "window period," you need to retest. The window period is the time from exposure to the HIV virus until antibodies to the virus are detectable in the blood. This period typically lasts ...[Read More] Understanding False Positive HIV Test Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding Increased Urination: Causes and Concerns Explained
Increased urine output concerns? Hello Doctor, I have recently noticed an increase in my urine output. I read online that frequent urination could be a symptom of diabetes or diabetes insipidus, and I am not very familiar with diabetes insipidus, so I would like to ask you: 1) Is...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Diabetes insipidus can indeed occur in ordinary individuals, but not all cases of excessive urination indicate diabetes insipidus; a thorough examination is necessary for a definitive diagnosis. 2. Testing the osmolarity of blood and urine, as well as evaluating elec...[Read More] Understanding Increased Urination: Causes and Concerns Explained
Understanding Tonsil Stones: Risks, Removal Methods, and Infection Concerns
The possibility of infection following tonsil cleaning? Hello, I noticed a small tonsil stone while brushing my teeth. I gently pressed on the tonsil stone with a sterilized cotton swab, as my previous ENT doctor had done, but he advised me to be gentle to avoid inflammation. How...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the oral mucosa can easily bleed with minor friction, but this does not indicate a risk of bloodborne diseases, so there is no need to worry. The tingling sensation is due to inflammation and will improve soon. The use of cola is just an internet rumor and has no proven ef...[Read More] Understanding Tonsil Stones: Risks, Removal Methods, and Infection Concerns
Understanding Symptoms When Creatinine Levels Reach 12 mg/dL
When creatinine levels reach 12, the body may exhibit symptoms such as severe fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and decreased urine output. Additionally, patients may experience swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes due to fluid retention. It is crucial t...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
First, confirm whether the test values are accurate, and then distinguish between acute and chronic conditions. If it is chronic, it typically falls under stage 5 chronic kidney disease, which is often associated with symptoms of uremia (fatigue, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, los...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms When Creatinine Levels Reach 12 mg/dL
Understanding Frequent Urination and Dry Mouth: Possible Causes and Solutions
Medical consultation Recently, I've been experiencing sudden dry mouth and frequent urination. Chewing gum helps a bit. What could be the issue? (I haven't been eating much, and my weight is normal.)
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Symptoms of excessive thirst and frequent urination may warrant a visit to the endocrinology department to check for elevated blood glucose levels.[Read More] Understanding Frequent Urination and Dry Mouth: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Blood-Streaked Mucus: Is It Just a Cold?
Common cold and related issues? Doctor, I'm sorry to disturb you. The day before yesterday, I noticed blood when I was clearing my nose or coughing up phlegm, so I went to see a doctor. The doctor asked me to open my mouth and used a spoon-like instrument to examine me. He s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the mucous membrane in the nasal cavity is rich in microvessels, which can easily result in blood streaks when you blow your nose forcefully or sneeze. As long as you avoid excessive force when sneezing or blowing your nose, the blood streaks should gradually disappear. Ad...[Read More] Understanding Blood-Streaked Mucus: Is It Just a Cold?
Understanding the Impact of Cholesterol on Blood Pressure Variability
Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Hello Doctor: I am a person who gets nervous easily, and every time I go to the hospital to have my blood pressure measured, it is very high, with systolic pressure over 160 and diastolic pressure over 100. However, when I measure my blood pressure ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, cholesterol itself does not directly affect blood pressure. It is the long-term high levels of lipids that can lead to atherosclerosis, which may then influence an increase in blood pressure. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Cholesterol on Blood Pressure Variability
Understanding Unexplained Red Dots on the Chin: Causes and Concerns
Unexplained red spots on the chin? Hello Doctor: Last night, I suddenly noticed a red patch on my chin, and upon closer inspection, it appears to have small red spots that look like broken capillaries. There are about two areas on my chin with this condition, and it has not dissi...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Based on the images, it does not appear to be a microvascular rupture or a vasculitis lesion. I recommend further observation. If you are truly concerned, it would be advisable to consult a dermatologist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatolog...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Red Dots on the Chin: Causes and Concerns
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Key Questions Answered
HIV transmission-related information? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask two questions: A. When we say that a wound can transmit infection upon contact with fresh bodily fluids (such as semen or blood), does this mean the wound needs to be "actively bleeding"? If a sel...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, HIV is primarily transmitted through sexual intercourse, sharing needles, or blood transfusions. The two hypothetical scenarios you described are not common clinical infection situations, and there are very few reports of infections occurring in such cases, so they are con...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Neck Pain and Throat Issues After Sneezing: Expert Insights
Please ask your two questions? Hello, I would like to ask the doctor about something. When I sneeze or blow my nose forcefully, I sometimes feel a connection in the area just above the left side of my neck. Today, I felt a slight dizziness or pain at the top of my head, but it on...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding your symptoms, they do not resemble those associated with vaccine-related thrombosis. They are more similar to migraine issues caused by irregular sleep patterns or stress. It is indeed recommended to maintain a regular schedule and engage in moderate exercise, w...[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain and Throat Issues After Sneezing: Expert Insights
Understanding Rising Triglycerides: Diet, Stress, and Cholesterol Levels
Elevated triglycerides? Hello Dr. Hong, In July, during my health check-up, my total cholesterol was 6.07, HDL (good cholesterol) was 1.31, LDL (bad cholesterol) was 4.46, and triglycerides were 1.09. After three months of dietary control and exercising 150 minutes per week, I h...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, triglycerides are usually related to diet; for example, stir-fried vegetables can cause levels to rise. On the other hand, high cholesterol is often influenced by genetic factors. Overall, blood lipids can be affected by multiple factors. It is recommended to avoid high-fa...[Read More] Understanding Rising Triglycerides: Diet, Stress, and Cholesterol Levels
Can HIV Enter Through Minor Wounds? Understanding Infection Risks
HIV wound infection issues? Hello, doctor. Yesterday, I used a rapid test kit for detection. The first blood draw was not very successful, so I switched to another kit and did it again. However, there are two wounds on my finger from the blood collection needles. About eight hour...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the wound you described will not transmit HIV, so there is no need to worry. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can HIV Enter Through Minor Wounds? Understanding Infection Risks