Cold, Internal Medicine FAQ

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Understanding Throat Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions

Infection issues I would like to ask the doctor, I have been experiencing some discomfort in my throat recently, but it is not severe. I feel very thirsty often, have a bit of bad breath, and I feel cold every morning when I wake up. Could you please tell me what this might indic...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Currently, it is midsummer, and the weather is hot and humid. It is important to increase fluid and electrolyte intake. 2. If you have already done this and still feel unwell, consider spending more time outdoors in nature during the morning and evening, while also paying at...

[Read More] Understanding Throat Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions


Understanding Symptoms Similar to Hypoglycemia with Normal Blood Sugar Levels

Normal blood sugar levels but occasionally experiencing symptoms similar to hypoglycemia? Hello Doctor: In the past two to three years, I have occasionally experienced symptoms similar to hypoglycemia, such as sudden cold sweats, anxiety, and hunger pangs, which are relieved afte...


Dr. Li Jian Reply:
You can visit the Metabolism Clinic for further examination. Thank you for your inquiry.

[Read More] Understanding Symptoms Similar to Hypoglycemia with Normal Blood Sugar Levels


Can You Get HIV from Saliva if You Have a Sore Throat?

HIV infection I have a cold and a sore throat. I came into contact with the saliva of an HIV-positive person. Since I have a sore throat with wounds, is there a risk of transmission?


Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Although HIV infection leads to immune dysfunction, the related symptoms are primarily various infections. Therefore, the issue of HIV should be addressed by an infectious disease specialist. Please consult with an infectious disease physician. ...

[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Saliva if You Have a Sore Throat?


What to Do After Accidental Antibiotic Overdose?

What should be done after accidentally taking antibiotics? I had nasal congestion and runny nose for two to three days, thinking it was just my nasal allergies. Later, I woke up to find my throat swollen and realized I had a cold. I thought I would just go to the pharmacy to buy ...


Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Biaxin is an antibiotic that we commonly prescribe, and it can indeed have diarrhea as a side effect. If you are only experiencing a cold with a sore throat, without a fever, and your symptoms are improving, you may not need to continue taking ...

[Read More] What to Do After Accidental Antibiotic Overdose?


Understanding Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Time

Tonsillitis Doctor, I recently tested positive for COVID-19, and about a week after recovering, I suddenly experienced pain on the left side of my throat. It feels like there is a foreign object when I swallow, and when I eat, it hurts. The doctor prescribed me antibiotics, somet...


Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If you have tonsillitis, please visit the otolaryngology clinic for further examination. Thank you for your inquiry.

[Read More] Understanding Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Time


Food Safety in Your Fridge: Risks of Storing Leftovers and Meals

Food in the refrigerator Hello, doctor. I have been storing food scraps in the refrigerator (in the cold storage) and also keeping prepared dinners in the refrigerator. The next day, I microwave the dinner, which is placed on a plate and covered with plastic wrap. I would like to...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, theoretically, a refrigerator operates on a closed-loop system. If food scraps are not covered, the bacteria inside can indeed contaminate other foods through the airflow. If they are properly covered, the risk is reduced; however, the exterior of the food scrap container ...

[Read More] Food Safety in Your Fridge: Risks of Storing Leftovers and Meals


Understanding Recurrent Infections: Causes and When to Seek Help

Recurrent inflammatory colds? Hello, doctor. In the past month, I have been experiencing recurrent episodes of fever and inflammation. The first instance was a sudden acute fever, which did not show significant signs of subsiding after two days. After visiting my family physician...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Your situation is relatively complex, and it is recommended that you visit the Infectious Disease outpatient clinic for evaluation. Additionally, if you experience any changes in hearing, it is advisable to see an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist to rule out more obv...

[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Infections: Causes and When to Seek Help


Understanding Autoimmune Hepatitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns

Autoimmune hepatitis Hello Doctor: At the end of March this year, I sought consultation in the hepatobiliary and gastroenterology department due to fatigue, jaundice, and tea-colored urine. Blood tests showed AST 675, ALT 1077, and total bilirubin 4.6. Subsequent tests for HBsAg ...


Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
It is highly recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible, preferably by returning to your original treating physician's clinic. If the appointments are fully booked, you should be able to request an additional slot with your original doctor. To determine the si...

[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Hepatitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns


Muscle Tremors and Abnormal Urinalysis: When to Seek Help?

Muscle tremors and abnormal urinalysis? Hello Doctor, I had a routine check-up last week, and the protein test result was (+/-). I initially thought it wasn't a big deal, but recently I've been experiencing involuntary muscle twitching all over my body, and I even had l...


Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Side effects of the yellow fever vaccine may include headache, muscle pain, and mild fever, resembling cold symptoms, which typically resolve within 1 to 2 days. It is recommended to consult your primary care physician or an internal medicine clinic at the original vaccination fa...

[Read More] Muscle Tremors and Abnormal Urinalysis: When to Seek Help?


Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Onset Occur After Age 50?

Is it possible for ankylosing spondylitis to develop at the age of 50? I am a 51-year-old female who has been experiencing significant tightness and stiffness in my hip joint for at least three years. I initially thought it was due to natural aging, prolonged sitting at work, or ...


Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: (1) Is it possible for ankylosing spondylitis to onset at the age of 50? --> The likelihood is low, but it is possible. (2) If both CRP and ESR are normal, does that mean it is unrelated to ankylosing spondylitis? --&...

[Read More] Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Onset Occur After Age 50?


Understanding Oral Discomfort and Hygiene Risks: A Doctor's Insight

Please ask your question? I have two questions for the doctor. First, when I drink cold water from a convenience store at the airport with my family, I feel a tingling sensation in my oral mucosa. I remember seeing news about someone adding something to the water, so my family is...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Before drinking cold water next time, you can wash your hands with some water or rinse your mouth to avoid excessive stimulation to the oral cavity. 2. Indeed, in public places, utensils may sometimes have unexpected contaminants if not properly maintained. To prevent such sit...

[Read More] Understanding Oral Discomfort and Hygiene Risks: A Doctor's Insight


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


Understanding Side Effects of Levothyroxine in Hypothyroidism Treatment

Thyroid medication consultation I have hypothyroidism (Hashimoto's disease) and have been under follow-up for over two years with no significant symptoms. During my last follow-up in March, my levels worsened slightly, and my doctor prescribed Eltroxin 50, instructing me to ...


Dr. Li Jian Reply:
The dosage of Antithyroid medication needs to be monitored by blood tests for TSH and free T4 levels in order to determine the appropriate dosage. Thank you for your inquiry.

[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Levothyroxine in Hypothyroidism Treatment


Can Sneezing Too Hard Cause Chest Pain After COVID-19?

Sneezing after diagnosis? Hello, I would like to consult a doctor. I was diagnosed with COVID-19 for the second time during the New Year. I took cold medicine and traditional Chinese medicine, and I no longer have yellow phlegm or a sore throat. However, after sneezing quite forc...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. After a typical COVID-19 infection, a dry cough and decreased appetite may persist for one to two weeks, gradually improving over time. 2. If the cough and chest pain continue, or if there is hemoptysis, it is advisable to visit a healthcare facility to check for possible se...

[Read More] Can Sneezing Too Hard Cause Chest Pain After COVID-19?


Could Parasites Be Causing My Severe Headaches and Cough?

Cerebral issues caused by parasites? Hello Doctor, I consumed several raw shrimp (purchased from a Japanese restaurant, unsure of the species and handling process) three weeks ago. In the past week, I have experienced severe headaches, strong cough (with phlegm, but minimal nasal...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, if there is a combination of cough with phlegm, it is advisable to suspect an upper respiratory tract infection (such as a cold, flu, or COVID-19). The likelihood of contracting a parasite from consuming raw shrimp is extremely low, and it is unlikely to experience headach...

[Read More] Could Parasites Be Causing My Severe Headaches and Cough?


Can Oral Sex Lead to Syphilis Infection? Understanding the Risks

Can a person who performs oral sex on another be at risk of contracting syphilis? On January 25, 2024, I visited a brothel and had oral sex with a sex worker. She mentioned that she uses an alcohol-based mouthwash before each oral encounter. I am very concerned because I have hea...


Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If you have related symptoms, it is recommended that you see an infectious disease specialist for an examination. Thank you for your inquiry.

[Read More] Can Oral Sex Lead to Syphilis Infection? Understanding the Risks


Managing Lupus-Related Kidney Disease: Symptoms, Treatments, and Lifestyle Tips

Systemic lupus erythematosus complicated by class IV lupus nephritis? My husband was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and developed class IV lupus nephritis after a biopsy last October. The rheumatologist recommended hospitalization for treatment. Initially, he h...


Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Please follow the medical advice provided. If new symptoms or other concerns arise, please return for consultation with the attending physician in the Rheumatology and Immunology department. Thank you.

[Read More] Managing Lupus-Related Kidney Disease: Symptoms, Treatments, and Lifestyle Tips


Effective Strategies to Prevent Colds: Tips for Staying Healthy

Preventing the Common Cold How can I prevent a cold?


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, get vaccinated during the flu season and maintain a regular daily routine. 2. When going to crowded places, wear a mask and practice good hand hygiene. 3. If you have already caught a cold, avoid close contact with friends and family, and arrange for a separate space.

[Read More] Effective Strategies to Prevent Colds: Tips for Staying Healthy


Why Does My Sense of Taste Diminish After Relieving Nasal Congestion?

Nasal congestion due to a cold? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing a cold, which has affected my sense of taste, reducing it to about 50% of normal. Today, I couldn't stand it anymore, so I used "Rhinex" nasal spray on the congested side. The othe...


Dr. Li Jian Reply:
You can see an otolaryngologist for further examination. Thank you for your inquiry.

[Read More] Why Does My Sense of Taste Diminish After Relieving Nasal Congestion?


Can Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Use These Pain Relief Patches?

Kidney problems Hello doctor, my father asked me to help him buy water-based patches, but he has chronic kidney disease with a glomerular filtration rate of 52. He is concerned that the patches might harm his kidneys. I would like to ask if it is safe to purchase the following pa...


Dr. Li Jian Reply:
The patch should not have a significant impact on kidney function. Thank you for your inquiry.

[Read More] Can Chronic Kidney Disease Patients Use These Pain Relief Patches?


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