Concerns About Parasite Infection from Undercooked Pork Liver
Parasitic questions? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to inquire about a situation where my family and I consumed pig liver soup tonight, and we ate undercooked pig liver that was even oozing blood. Each person had about six pieces of pig liver. I would like to ask the following quest...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. There is not much risk; parasites will die if they are slightly heated, and tapeworms are not typically found in pig liver. 2. The same applies here. The main risk comes from consuming raw pork; even if parasites are frozen, they will die, so it is not that easy to get infec...[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection from Undercooked Pork Liver
Persistent Dizziness: Understanding Causes and Seeking Solutions
Dizziness and lightheadedness? I have been experiencing dizziness for some reason lately, and it has persisted for a week. I visited an otolaryngologist last week and took medication, but the issue has not improved. It doesn't seem to be a cold. I have a habit of practicing ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If the dizziness does not improve, further examination is necessary to determine the cause. It could be an issue with the vestibular system of the inner ear, or it may be due to conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere's disease, brain t...[Read More] Persistent Dizziness: Understanding Causes and Seeking Solutions
Unsteady and Dizzy: Understanding Balance Issues in Autoimmune Conditions
Feeling unsteady and unable to maintain balance at all times? Hello, doctor. I have rheumatoid arthritis, and one day after sitting in the same position for too long, I suddenly felt dizzy, weak, and cold, almost fainting. After seeking medical attention, I have been experiencing...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If you are continuously undergoing medication management and follow-up treatment, it is advisable to return to your rheumatologist. This visit can help assess for any potential medication side effects and evaluate for cervical spine compression ...[Read More] Unsteady and Dizzy: Understanding Balance Issues in Autoimmune Conditions
Can Handling Snails Lead to Guangdong Blood Fluke Infection?
Touching a snail that is eating does not directly lead to a risk of parasitic infection. However, snails can carry parasites, such as those that cause schistosomiasis, which can be transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated water or soil. It is important to practice ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Infection with Angiostrongylus cantonensis is unlikely; it typically requires the consumption of raw snails and occurs in individuals with compromised immune systems. 2. If experiencing symptoms such as fever, headache, or diarrhea, seek medical consultation and testing at a...[Read More] Can Handling Snails Lead to Guangdong Blood Fluke Infection?
Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Infection Risks and Long-Term Effects
Regarding COVID-19 vaccines? Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask: I received my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (AstraZeneca) on September 10, 2021, my second dose (BioNTech) on November 24, 2021, and my booster dose (BioNTech) on March 1, 2022. I would like to know what the ou...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, there is a certain probability of severe illness associated with COVID-19, which is related to factors such as the patient's age, pre-existing chronic conditions, and vaccination status. Your situation indicates that the likelihood of experiencing severe illness is lo...[Read More] Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Infection Risks and Long-Term Effects
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Abnormal abdominal pain Hello, doctor. I am 29 years old and I have ankylosing spondylitis and chronic anemia (with an average hemoglobin level of about 20). I'm not sure if this is related to the events I've experienced. The first incident occurred when I was around 20...
Dr. Zheng Weijun Reply:
Hello, thank you for your detailed description. First, regarding your mention that "the average hemoglobin does not exceed 20," this value is within the normal range; the normal hemoglobin level for women is 12–16 g/dL, so your current hemoglobin level may not be abnorm...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Managing Severe Tuberculosis: Treatment Strategies and Patient Care
After a critical stage of pulmonary tuberculosis, treatment directions and recommendations include the following: 1. **Continuation of Antitubercular Therapy**: Ensure adherence to a full course of antitubercular medications, typically including isoniazid, rifamp Hello Doctor, ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the considerations for the above issues will vary based on the individual patient's condition. It is recommended to have a detailed discussion with your mother's current attending physician, as this type of online consultation cannot address such individual and c...[Read More] Managing Severe Tuberculosis: Treatment Strategies and Patient Care
Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need Medical Attention?
Eating undercooked pork in barbecue? When eating barbecue, I thought it was beef and consumed it medium-rare, only to later discover it was pork! Doctor, I have two questions: 1. Is it necessary to see an infectious disease specialist for this situation? 2. Is the prevalence of t...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the information from the Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan, a member of the indigenous community in Hualien County, Peng Zhao-xi, frequently consumed raw wild boar meat. Over a month ago, he developed a hard lump on the inner side of his left thigh. After exam...[Read More] Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need Medical Attention?
Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need to See an Infectious Disease Specialist?
Eating undercooked pork in barbecue? When eating barbecue, I thought it was beef and consumed it medium-rare, only to later find out it was pork! Doctor, I have two questions: 1. Is it necessary to see an infectious disease specialist for this situation? 2. Is the prevalence of t...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the information from the Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan, a member of the indigenous community in Hualien County, Peng Zhaoxi, frequently consumed raw wild boar meat. Over a month ago, he developed a hard lump on the inner side of his left thigh. After exami...[Read More] Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need to See an Infectious Disease Specialist?
Concerns About Pork Tapeworm Infection After Handling Fresh Pork
Pork tapeworm parasite This morning, I went to the market to buy pork (ground pork). The vendor said the pork was freshly slaughtered. After I brought it home and handled it, I forgot to wash my hands, but I did use alcohol to disinfect them before eating. Is there a risk of para...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
No; you can refer to the CDC's information: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/ListContent/AHwuigegBBBmuDcbWkzoGQ?uaid=T0MRJj8KVycdb4ZS6EGu_g. In Hualien County, an indigenous man named Peng Zhaoxi frequently consumed raw wild boar meat. Over a month ago, he developed a hard lu...[Read More] Concerns About Pork Tapeworm Infection After Handling Fresh Pork
Concerns About Pork Tapeworm Infection After Handling Fresh Pork
Pork tapeworm parasite This morning, I went to the market to buy pork (ground pork). The vendor said the pork was freshly slaughtered. After I brought it home and handled it, I forgot to wash my hands, but I did use alcohol to disinfect them before eating. Is there a risk of para...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
No; you can refer to the information from the Centers for Disease Control: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/ListContent/AHwuigegBBBmuDcbWkzoGQ?uaid=T0MRJj8KVycdb4ZS6EGu_g. In Hualien County, an indigenous man named Peng Zhaoxi frequently consumed raw wild boar meat. Over a month a...[Read More] Concerns About Pork Tapeworm Infection After Handling Fresh Pork
Post-Surgery Dizziness: Understanding Causes After Abdominal Surgery
Postoperative dizziness after abdominal surgery? On February 18, I was involved in a car accident that resulted in an abdominal injury, leading to surgery to remove part of my pancreas. I was transferred from the intensive care unit to a general ward on the fourth day post-surger...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description of dizziness, we first need to rule out any initial head injuries. If you experience persistent headaches or vomiting, a brain examination may be necessary. If these are not present, it is highly likely that the dizziness is due to decreased cardi...[Read More] Post-Surgery Dizziness: Understanding Causes After Abdominal Surgery
Understanding Dizziness and Body Sensations While Using Your Phone
Dizziness with slight swaying of the body? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask about a situation I experience when lying on my side with a pillow while using my phone, or when lying face down on the bed. Sometimes, I feel a slight swaying sensation in my body, which makes me think...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the most common causes of dizziness are inner ear imbalance and brain issues. Compression of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves in the neck may also lead to dizziness. To determine the specific cause, it is necessary to consult a neurologist or an otolaryngologist ...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Body Sensations While Using Your Phone
Understanding Dizziness and Head Injuries: Key Recovery Tips
Dizziness and fainting followed by a head injury? Hello Dr. Hong, my girlfriend is in Spain. A couple of days ago, she suddenly fainted in the kitchen and hit her head. When she went to see a doctor, the doctor requested some physiological response tests, such as whether her eyes...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to monitor for severe headaches or vomiting within the next 48 hours. If either occurs, you should promptly return to the emergency department for evaluation of potential intracranial hemorrhage. If no significant symptoms develop afterward, the likelihoo...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Head Injuries: Key Recovery Tips
Should You Seek Medical Attention for a Head Injury After Fainting?
Head injury Fainting in the bathroom can be concerning, especially if it is uncertain whether it was due to weakness from menstruation or from hot water and poor air circulation leading to oxygen deprivation. Since you hit your forehead and near your temple during the fall, and y...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is important to monitor whether the pain persists for more than 48 hours, becomes increasingly severe, or if vomiting occurs. If the symptoms become more pronounced, it is advisable to seek evaluation from a neurosurgeon or visit the emergency department to assess for p...[Read More] Should You Seek Medical Attention for a Head Injury After Fainting?
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
Understanding Brain Fog: Concerns and Solutions for Patients
Brain fog issue? Hello Doctor: I originally had poor memory and difficulty concentrating due to a mental illness, similar to brain fog, which made me hesitant to dine in restaurants for fear of exacerbating my condition. This has been somewhat distressing. I am concerned about th...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to get vaccinated, as this can lead to milder symptoms in case of infection and a lower risk of complications. Regarding brain fog, it mostly occurs in older adults, so the likelihood at your age is low. Even if it does happen, recovery is gradual and doe...[Read More] Understanding Brain Fog: Concerns and Solutions for Patients
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
Concerns About Parasites and Blood Test Results After Undercooked Meat
Suspected parasitic infection and blood test values? Hello, on October 1st, I consumed a steak that was not cooked to the required doneness (I requested medium, but some parts were rare to medium-rare). I am concerned about parasites (specifically, tapeworms) and have since been ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The pork tapeworm can also be killed by freezing. 2. Each individual's condition varies significantly, ranging from a few months to several years. 3. Based on your clinical symptoms and blood test results, it currently does not appear to be a parasitic infection. T...[Read More] Concerns About Parasites and Blood Test Results After Undercooked Meat
Impact of Frequent Masturbation on Middle School Boys' Brain Health
The effects of masturbation on the brain in adolescent boys? Hello, doctor. Can you please tell me if frequent masturbation in middle school students can damage the brain or affect memory? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Hello, 1. Will it affect brain development? No. Generally, masturbation can be seen as a way for individuals to relieve sexual urges or stress. Conversely, if one suppresses masturbation, it may lead to self-doubt or negatively impact others in the pursuit of sexual outlets, wh...[Read More] Impact of Frequent Masturbation on Middle School Boys' Brain Health