Unexplained Fever, Nausea, and Loss of Appetite: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Fever of unknown origin, nausea, and loss of appetite? Hello Doctor, I have been measuring my ear temperature between 37.3 and 37.6 degrees Celsius for the past few months, and I feel a heavy sensation in my head similar to having a fever. I often feel nauseous in the morning and...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to visit a family medicine clinic for an examination and to perform a urinalysis to confirm whether there is a urinary tract infection. Bloating itself can cause a feeling of nausea, which may not necessarily be related to a urinary tract infection or fev...[Read More] Unexplained Fever, Nausea, and Loss of Appetite: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Understanding Neck Pain: Possible Causes and Connections to Recent Meals
Lymphatic issues When I woke up today, I felt some pain on the right side of my neck near the jaw, but there is no swelling. I had a gastroscopy yesterday afternoon and ate ginger duck in the evening, and I'm not sure if this is related.
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, could you please check if there is a small lump about the size of a coin? Based on your description, the most likely possibility is lymphadenopathy. If this occurred suddenly, it is usually due to inflammation or infection in the nearby area, most commonly related to denta...[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain: Possible Causes and Connections to Recent Meals
Understanding HIV Testing and Symptoms: Your Questions Answered
HIV testing issues? Hello Dr. Hong, I had an encounter with a woman on November 9th last year. About two to three days later, I developed a low-grade fever, sore throat, and a rash. After taking cold medication, I improved. As of today, I have not experienced any other acute HIV ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, in response to your questions, I will address them in several parts: 1. Regarding the possibility of HIV infection, it is recommended to undergo a second screening test at three months to confirm that there is no infection. 2. Concerning the skin rash, I am unsure about...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing and Symptoms: Your Questions Answered
Understanding High hs-CRP Levels: What SLE Patients Should Know
Elevated hs-CRP!?? Hello, doctor. I am a patient with SLE, and during my recent follow-up visit, my blood test showed a high hs-CRP level of 40. However, the doctor did not mention it specifically, and I am a bit concerned. What does this value indicate? Is it related to cardiova...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. hs-CRP does have units, and I believe the value of 40 is in mg/L, which is still considered elevated. There are many reasons that can cause hs-CRP to be elevated, including infections such as dental pain, diarrhea, colds, or recent surgery. The...[Read More] Understanding High hs-CRP Levels: What SLE Patients Should Know
Understanding Left-Sided Symptoms: Possible Immune System Issues
Immune system issues? Hello, doctor. I am currently preparing for my college entrance exam, but I have been experiencing some unusual symptoms and would like to seek your reassurance. I would like to ask why my symptoms are predominantly affecting the left side of my body. For ex...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello: The effects of the immune system are generally systemic, with very few distinctions made between the left and right sides. Therefore, the likelihood of a systemic immune response is relatively low. However, the left-sided lymphadenopathy and some discomfort you described a...[Read More] Understanding Left-Sided Symptoms: Possible Immune System Issues
Could I Be at Risk for Lupus? Understanding Symptoms and Prevention
Could it be systemic lupus erythematosus? Hello Doctor, I recently caught a cold, which has lowered my immune system, and I started developing small red spots on my body, about a third the size of a mung bean. I have two on the side of my nose, one on my knee, one on my calf, and...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the typical rash associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is indeed the butterfly rash. Based on your description of the small red spots, it is more likely to be folliculitis. However, skin issues usually require a visual examination for accurate diagnosis, so I ...[Read More] Could I Be at Risk for Lupus? Understanding Symptoms and Prevention
Understanding Symptoms After Potential HIV Exposure: What to Know
Infectious symptoms Hello, doctor. I had sexual intercourse with a woman on the afternoon of the 9th. We used a condom throughout, but it slipped off at one point; however, I immediately replaced it with a new one. We also engaged in kissing and oral sex. About 2 to 3 days later,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, it seems that the symptoms you are experiencing may be due to a subsequent cold. However, it is true that the early symptoms of HIV can resemble those of a cold, so it cannot be completely ruled out based solely on symptoms. I recommend that you go to a...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms After Potential HIV Exposure: What to Know
Understanding Post-Meal Blood Sugar of 201: Risks and Management Strategies
A postprandial blood glucose level of 201 mg/dL is considered elevated. It is important to evaluate this result in the context of the individual's overall health, medical history, and potential symptoms. Here are some considerations and actions to take: 1? Hello, doctor. Th...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
1. Generally speaking, a random blood glucose level of 201 mg/dL increases the likelihood of diabetes compared to normal individuals. However, at that time, you also had a cold, which could affect blood glucose levels. It is recommended to visit the endocrinology clinic after rec...[Read More] Understanding Post-Meal Blood Sugar of 201: Risks and Management Strategies
Understanding Flu and Cold Symptoms: Insights from Taiwan's Experience
Influenza Issues Hello, I would like to ask you about the issues related to influenza and the common cold. I am from Taichung and have just moved to Keelung two months ago, working in Taipei. I don't know if I was just lucky before, but I have never had influenza and only ca...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the symptoms you described, such as body aches, weakness, sore throat, nasal congestion, and diarrhea, are all indicative of cold symptoms. There are many causes for these symptoms, including influenza virus, parainfluenza virus, adenovirus, and various other types. Accord...[Read More] Understanding Flu and Cold Symptoms: Insights from Taiwan's Experience
Understanding Headaches and Allergies: The Connection to Dental Issues
Headache, allergy issues? Several years ago, I developed a cavity in my upper right molar that was difficult to clean. The decay was quite deep, and the dentist mentioned that fragments had lodged into the gum tissue. Initially, my headaches were caused by the dental issue, and I...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, I need to address several points: 1. The term "bacteria entering the bloodstream" typically refers to instances during dental cleanings or surgical procedures. In general, unless there is a dental procedure performed, bacteria from cav...[Read More] Understanding Headaches and Allergies: The Connection to Dental Issues
Understanding Drug Allergies: Symptoms, Testing, and Management
Suspected drug allergy Hello Doctor: Since around the third grade of elementary school, I have experienced prolonged itching on my skin after taking medication for colds from an ear, nose, and throat specialist, although there are no visible symptoms (such as rashes or redness). ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here is a brief summary of your questions: 1. Chronic itching: It is advisable to consult your dermatologist first. If a clear answer is still not obtained, you may consider visiting an allergy, immunology, and rheumatology clinic. The physicia...[Read More] Understanding Drug Allergies: Symptoms, Testing, and Management
Managing Temperature Fluctuations and Emotional Instability in Seniors
Experiencing fluctuations in temperature, sweating, and emotional instability? Hello Doctor: My mother-in-law is 70 years old. Ever since she caught a cold five months ago, her entire body system has been out of balance. Initially, she experienced constant chills and wore many la...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
You can consult a pulmonologist, an immunologist, or a family medicine physician.[Read More] Managing Temperature Fluctuations and Emotional Instability in Seniors
Is Your Hunger Before Meals a Sign of Blood Sugar Issues?
Is having frequent hunger pangs related to blood sugar issues? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a persistent sensation of muscle hunger, which typically occurs before lunch or dinner. I do not experience symptoms associated with hypoglycemia, such as cold sweats, trembling,...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
There are many reasons for feelings of hunger, such as having an overly efficient digestive system, which can lead to rapid gastric emptying and increased hunger. Is your diet balanced across three meals? Consuming overly refined foods that lack fiber, protein, and healthy fats c...[Read More] Is Your Hunger Before Meals a Sign of Blood Sugar Issues?
Understanding Enlarged Submandibular Lymph Nodes: Causes and Treatment
Submandibular lymphadenopathy Symptom description: 1) Generalized muscle soreness 2) No fever, but has a cough 3) Pain upon pressing the area between the upper abdomen and the ribs 4) Pain in the left axilla, but no swelling 5) Unilateral (left side) submandibular lymphadenopathy...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, we need to first confirm whether the symptoms of muscle soreness, abdominal tenderness, axillary pain, and lymphadenopathy have all occurred recently. If these are long-standing issues, we must consider whether they are due to muscle strain or ot...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Submandibular Lymph Nodes: Causes and Treatment
Unexplained Heat on the Right Side of the Face: Causes and Solutions
Unexplained fever on the right side of the face? Hello Doctor: About a year ago, I had a blood test at the hospital, and the needle was inserted in the center of my right arm. It hurt for more than three months before it got better. During that time, the pain radiated from the mi...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! The relationship between the pain in your right arm and the subsequent symptoms cannot be determined at this time. However, based on what you mentioned, you have: 1. Right ear pain 2. Swelling of the right lymph nodes 3. Nasal discharge running into the right ear 4. Hearin...[Read More] Unexplained Heat on the Right Side of the Face: Causes and Solutions
Sudden High Fever: Understanding Causes and Concerns in Internal Medicine
Unexplained sudden high fever? Two nights ago, I suddenly experienced full-body shaking and a headache. The next day, I woke up feeling weak all over and had a severe headache. Later in the afternoon, my temperature rose to 39.3°C, so I went to a clinic for evaluation. I had no s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. In cases of more severe bacterial infections, it is usually sufficient to take just one course of antibiotics to control the infection. Based on your description, it seems more likely to be a viral infection or a mild bacterial infection, which should be monitored fur...[Read More] Sudden High Fever: Understanding Causes and Concerns in Internal Medicine
Understanding Itchy Throat Near the Clavicle: When to Seek Help
Itchy throat near the clavicle? Sometimes I experience a slight itch in my throat near the clavicle (just below the Adam's apple). I'm not sure if it's related to a cold I had a long time ago in September. Although I recovered from that cold, I occasionally still f...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the most likely cause is chronic inflammation resulting from a previous cold or your own chronic allergic constitution leading to chronic inflammation. It is recommended to observe for a period of time; if there is improvement, no special treatme...[Read More] Understanding Itchy Throat Near the Clavicle: When to Seek Help
Persistent Dry Cough for Months: When to Seek Further Medical Help?
Coughing for several months? Hello Doctor: I have been coughing for nearly three months without improvement. During this time, I have visited an otolaryngologist twice, and there was only slight improvement, but the cough persisted. The cough is dry, with no phlegm, occurring abo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, it is most likely that you previously had a cold, which may have led to complications such as chronic bronchitis, combined with the current poor air quality and the significant temperature fluctuations in the mornings and evenings, resulting in occasion...[Read More] Persistent Dry Cough for Months: When to Seek Further Medical Help?
Assessing HIV Risk After High-Risk Behavior: Symptoms and Concerns
After engaging in high-risk behaviors I'm not a doctor, but I can provide some general information. Engaging in high-risk behaviors, such as oral sex with an infected partner, can potentially expose you to HIV. The symptoms you describe, such as gastrointestinal issues and s...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding post-risk behavior, here are the responses: 1. When did the risky behavior (unprotected sex) occur? According to the CDC, there are three main transmission routes for HIV: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other ex...[Read More] Assessing HIV Risk After High-Risk Behavior: Symptoms and Concerns
Is a Fasting Blood Sugar of 131 a Sign of Diabetes?
A blood sugar level of 131 mg/dL does not necessarily indicate diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, a fasting blood sugar level of 126 mg/dL or higher is considered diagnostic for diabetes? Hello Dr. Lin, My mother is 83 years old and was diagnosed with Park...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! According to the current diagnostic criteria, since glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) reflects the average blood glucose levels over the past three months, a value greater than 6.5% on one occasion is sufficient for a diabetes diagnosis. Of course, considering your mother's...[Read More] Is a Fasting Blood Sugar of 131 a Sign of Diabetes?