Understanding ANA Test Results: Eczema and Lupus Family History
Inquiry about ANA report? Hello, doctor. Three months ago, I started experiencing a significant rash on my lower back and abdomen. I have seen dermatologists at three different hospitals, and it was ultimately diagnosed as eczema due to a family history of lupus erythematosus on ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
After obtaining a result of 1:80(+) from the test, a direct follow-up test at 1:160 will be conducted. If the 1:160 result is negative, the report will be issued as 1:80. Generally, a result of 1:80 is not considered problematic. It is recommended to consult a rheumatologist for ...[Read More] Understanding ANA Test Results: Eczema and Lupus Family History
Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Affect Inflammation Markers in Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Does having wisdom teeth removed through surgery affect inflammation levels? Hello, Director Gao. I am 20 years old and a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I had my wisdom teeth extracted on February 22. After the extraction, my cheek was swollen and painful. It has been 10 da...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) My appointment on March 8th is for a quarterly follow-up with the rheumatology department, where I will have blood drawn for monitoring. Should I wait until the swelling and pain in my mouth completely subside before ...[Read More] Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Affect Inflammation Markers in Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Blood and Alcohol Contact?
Suspected contact with blood that has been exposed to alcohol? Hello, doctor. I'm sorry to ask, but can HIV be transmitted through blood? Today, while disinfecting in the exhibition restroom, I noticed that the alcohol dispenser seemed to have some blood mixed with the alcoh...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluids carries a risk o...[Read More] Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Blood and Alcohol Contact?
Can High Blood Pressure and Kidney Issues Justify Stopping Medication?
Can medication be discontinued for hypertension, proteinuria, and poor kidney function? Recently, my husband wants to buy a supplement in Japan called "Serum High" to replace the medication prescribed by his doctor. The ingredients of "Serum High" include saff...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello, to control and stabilize the condition, it is not advisable for patients to abruptly discontinue medication. Physicians prescribe medications based on the patient's condition. If there are any concerns regarding the medication, it is recommended to schedule a follow-u...[Read More] Can High Blood Pressure and Kidney Issues Justify Stopping Medication?
Do You Need to Fast for Uric Acid Tests? Understanding Urine Odor Changes
Is fasting required for uric acid testing? Hello, Doctor Gao: I have the following questions: 1. For a simple uric acid test without any other tests, is fasting required? 2. Over the past year, I have noticed that my urine has a different smell, resembling onion water, every time...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is fasting required for a simple uric acid test without any other tests? --> Fasting is not necessary for measuring uric acid levels in the blood. 2. Over the past year, I have noticed that my urine has a differe...[Read More] Do You Need to Fast for Uric Acid Tests? Understanding Urine Odor Changes
Understanding Eosinophil and Lymphocyte Abnormalities in Blood Tests
Examination Report I have been experiencing hand pain for four months and have seen many specialists without improvement. I had multiple blood tests, and the only abnormalities found were an Eosinophil count of 13.1% and a Lymphocyte count of 13.5%. I am unsure what these two abn...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The value of eosinophils is more meaningful when converted to a total count. A high total eosinophil count is more associated with allergic diseases or parasitic infections. The proportion of lymphocytes can fluctuate based on the body's c...[Read More] Understanding Eosinophil and Lymphocyte Abnormalities in Blood Tests
Can You Get HIV from Using a Thermometer After an Infected Patient?
Transmission routes of HIV (ear thermometer) If the previous patient was an HIV-positive individual and used an ear thermometer that came into contact with a wound or blood, and then I subsequently used the same ear thermometer on myself while having a wound in the same area, wou...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Theoretically, it should not be transmitted; the transmission routes for HIV include unprotected sexual intercourse, improper blood transfusions, and transmission from an HIV-positive mother during regular prenatal check-ups. 2. Generally, routine physical examinations and c...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Using a Thermometer After an Infected Patient?
Understanding Infection Risks from Contaminated Solutions
Concerns about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) transmission? 1. If infected blood drips into a solution and someone then uses that solution on a wound, is there a risk of infection? 2. If a person applies povidone-iodine (and allows it to dry) before coming into contact ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, it depends on what type of solution it is. If it is plain water, the HIV virus can survive for about ten minutes before it dies; if it is a disinfectant, it is unlikely to survive at all. Therefore, transmission of HIV is not possible. 2. Similarly, it is not possible t...[Read More] Understanding Infection Risks from Contaminated Solutions
Struggling with Unexplained Health Issues: Seeking Effective Solutions
There are many health conditions? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing many health issues, but I have encountered obstacles in seeking medical help and have not been able to find the cause of my problems or receive effective assistance. Therefore, I would like to seek your opi...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, you may need to schedule a follow-up appointment with the Infectious Disease Department for further examination to determine if there are any physiological issues. Additionally, please measure your body temperature daily to check for fever after experiencing chills and shi...[Read More] Struggling with Unexplained Health Issues: Seeking Effective Solutions
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis for STIs: Key Questions and Dietary Guidelines
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my situation. I had unprotected vaginal intercourse with an unfamiliar woman (without a condom and with ejaculation) and took PEP medication 25 hours later. I also h...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. There are no dietary restrictions while using the guitar vein; it can be used at any time or not used at all. 2. The protective effect of the hepatitis B vaccine diminishes over time; if you are required to work in a healthcare facility, it is recommended that you get tested...[Read More] Post-Exposure Prophylaxis for STIs: Key Questions and Dietary Guidelines
Understanding Thyroid Nodule Biopsy Results: What You Need to Know
Thyroid nodule biopsy results? Hello Doctor: I have a thyroid nodule on the left side (1.8 cm). At the beginning of February, the hospital arranged for a fine needle aspiration and blood tests. Recently, I reviewed the report, and the doctor said my thyroid function is normal, bu...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Inflammatory cells may be white blood cells. If cancer cells are not observed, there is no need to worry; regular check-ups will suffice. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Nodule Biopsy Results: What You Need to Know
Consulting a Doctor: COVID-19 Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Consult a doctor? Hello Doctor, I tested positive for COVID-19 a few days ago and have a few questions. I am currently taking Qingguo No. 1 and have also visited an ENT specialist for medication to treat my sore throat and runny nose. I noticed that my phlegm has been yellow and ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. After several days of forceful coughing, it is normal to have some blood-tinged sputum due to the rupture of small blood vessels in the trachea. However, if there is a significant amount of fresh blood, it is different, and you should seek medical attention. 2. Whether it...[Read More] Consulting a Doctor: COVID-19 Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease: Conflicting Medical Opinions Explained
Renal dysfunction Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my recent health check report. My serum creatinine is 1.35, urine creatinine is 110.76, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is 62.53, hemoglobin A1c is 5.4, fasting blood glucose is 90, uric acid is 7.2, urine protein is 9, a...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Urine or blood tests can determine the presence of hematuria, proteinuria, or any abnormalities in kidney function, which is typically assessed using the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). It is recommended that you bring your test results to a nephrology outpatient clinic at a re...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease: Conflicting Medical Opinions Explained
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: What Do Red Flags Mean?
The blood test report shows results in red? Due to symptoms of immunodeficiency, I undergo blood tests at the hospital every six months. This time, I had a regular check-up at the hospital before the Lunar New Year, and the next day I checked the results on the National Health In...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, it is important to identify the type of immune deficiency in order to make an accurate assessment. 2. If last year's tests were normal and this year's results are abnormal, please seek care at a nearby medical facility as soon as possible for confirmation and...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: What Do Red Flags Mean?
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Oral and Anal Concerns
Regarding healthcare? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask three questions. 1. If there is a wound in the mouth (such as on the lips or inside the mouth), can I get infected if I eat something that has HIV-infected blood or bodily fluids? 2. Similarly, if I have a wound in my m...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. If bodily fluids contain live HIV, there is indeed a risk of infection. 2. All diseases transmitted through bodily fluids or droplets have the potential for infection. 3. Viruses typically die within minutes outside the human body, and public restrooms are unlikely to have bod...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Oral and Anal Concerns
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks in Public Spaces: Key Insights
I forgot to ask for additional information? Hello, doctor! I apologize for my question. If someone with anal fissures or hemorrhoids sits on a public chair and comes into contact with HIV-infected blood or bodily fluids, could they be at risk of infection? I also forgot to ask, i...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, if an open wound comes into contact with body fluids containing the HIV virus, there is indeed a risk of infection. However, the HIV virus dies within minutes once it leaves the human body, so the likelihood of encountering live HIV in a public place is very low. It is adv...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks in Public Spaces: Key Insights
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Public Restroom Use
Probability of HIV Infection Hello, doctor: I just used a public restroom and didn't notice that there was menstrual blood left on the toilet seat from the previous user. I sat down directly on it. If the previous person had HIV, what is the risk of infection in this situati...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control data, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluids carries a risk of infectio...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Public Restroom Use
Blood in Sputum Without Cough: Understanding Possible Causes
Coughing up blood-stained sputum without coughing? Today, I started experiencing a sore throat and a fever of 38 degrees Celsius. While taking a shower in the evening, I coughed up phlegm and noticed blood in it, but I haven't had a runny nose or a cough. I visited a clinic ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If symptoms persist, it is recommended to see a pulmonologist for further evaluation. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Blood in Sputum Without Cough: Understanding Possible Causes
Can Hyperthyroidism Recur After Stopping Medication for One Month?
Inquiry about recurrence of hyperthyroidism? Hello, doctor. I previously had hyperthyroidism and was treated for a year and a half, during which my levels were normal. I stopped my medication last month, but recently I've been feeling unwell and more anxious. Is it possible ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If you feel that your symptoms are severe, you can schedule an earlier follow-up appointment. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can Hyperthyroidism Recur After Stopping Medication for One Month?
Understanding Immune System Tests: What Your Results Mean for You
Immune system Anti-Thyroglobulin Antibody (TA) = 13.87 Anti-Nuclear Antibody = Negative at 1:80 C4 Quantitation = 58.46 C3 Quantitation = 137.97 Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase Antibody (AMA) = <3.00 High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP) = 0.16 Rheumatoid Factor = 12...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Your report shows that only your IgE level is elevated, which is indicative of an allergic condition. If your C4 level is slightly elevated, it is not a concern; C4 can increase when the body is unwell and does not have special significance. I r...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Tests: What Your Results Mean for You