Understanding Recurrent Fever: Immune System Challenges and Solutions
Repeated fever over the past two months? Hello, since May, I have noticed that my immune system has been getting weaker. I used to rarely get sick, but on May 8, I discovered I had shingles (the doctor said it was due to stress and a decline in immunity, and prescribed zinc for m...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Since you have been diagnosed with influenza type A and are receiving treatment with oseltamivir, it is important to rest well and allow your immune system to recover to eliminate the virus from your body. 2. As for persistent symptoms after infection, this is common with COV...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Fever: Immune System Challenges and Solutions
Understanding Drug-Resistant Bacteria: Key Questions and Concerns
Further inquiries regarding antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the human body (continuation of question number 199206)? Thank you for your previous response, Doctor. I have some additional questions I would like to understand: 1. If the test results continue to be positive accordin...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Yes. The human body naturally hosts many bacteria that coexist with it; antibiotic-resistant bacteria are simply more resistant to antibiotics, but otherwise, they are not significantly different from regular bacteria. 2. It may be worth considering the use of probiotics to se...[Read More] Understanding Drug-Resistant Bacteria: Key Questions and Concerns
Can You Get HIV or Other Bloodborne Diseases from Oral Wounds?
Please provide the content you would like me to translate into English? Hello, doctor. Previously, I asked you the following question: "If there are sores or wounds inside or outside the mouth (such as on the lips), and if I consume food that has come into contact with the b...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. There is a risk of transmission, but the risk is low; the likelihood of becoming infected from a single exposure is at most one percent. 2. The transmission efficiency and risk associated with each pathogen vary, and they cannot be discussed collectively. In principle, there i...[Read More] Can You Get HIV or Other Bloodborne Diseases from Oral Wounds?
Distinguishing Between Immune Issues and Menopause Symptoms at 50
How to distinguish between immune issues and menopausal symptoms? Hello, Doctor. I am 50 years and 6 months old. My menstrual cycle was regular until December of last year when it suddenly stopped. Before March of this year, I experienced insomnia, excessive sweating, frequent co...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: (1) What tests should be done to confirm if there is inflammation or adhesion in the spine? --> X-rays and blood tests are sufficient. If necessary, an MRI may also be arranged. Your physician may have started treatm...[Read More] Distinguishing Between Immune Issues and Menopause Symptoms at 50
Understanding Positive Cold Agglutinins and Fibrinogen in Immune Disorders
Autoimmune diseases Hello, doctor. Recently, blood tests revealed cold agglutinin IgM (1+) and another positive result for cold fibrinogen. I do not have hepatitis B or C, and my ALT and AST levels are normal. An abdominal MRI last June was normal, and an abdominal ultrasound in ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Nasal mucosal bleeding is likely unrelated to cryoglobulinemia, so there is no need to worry. I still recommend regular follow-ups with a gastroenterologist, including monitoring for fatty liver and viral hepatitis. The Allergy, Immunology, and ...[Read More] Understanding Positive Cold Agglutinins and Fibrinogen in Immune Disorders
Does Ulcerative Colitis Affect Immunoglobulin Levels and Cancer Risk?
Does ulcerative colitis have an impact? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ulcerative colitis, which is currently under control. A colonoscopy in May showed that my mucosa has almost healed. Recently, due to immune-related issues, my blood test showed positive cold agglutinins wit...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The likelihood of ulcerative colitis being associated with cryoglobulinemia is quite low. Although there are sporadic case reports, I am somewhat skeptical about the correlation between these two conditions; generally, the chances are minimal, ...[Read More] Does Ulcerative Colitis Affect Immunoglobulin Levels and Cancer Risk?
Understanding Positive IgM in Coagulation Protein Tests: What It Means for Your Health
Cryoglobulin test The presence of cold agglutinins, indicated by a positive IgM (1+), suggests that your body may be producing antibodies that can cause red blood cells to clump together at lower temperatures. This condition can be associated with various underlying issues, inclu...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. It is recommended to return to the rheumatology clinic for follow-up, as further examinations may be necessary. The presence of cryoglobulinemia is related to many factors, with hepatitis C being the most common. Even if hepatitis C tests are no...[Read More] Understanding Positive IgM in Coagulation Protein Tests: What It Means for Your Health
Assessing Blood Infection Risks After Accidental Cut in Hospital
Risk of blood infection from being cut by scissors used by a nurse in the hospital? Hello Doctor: A few months ago, my child was hospitalized for pneumonia for 5 days. On the day of discharge, while the nurse was removing the IV bandage, she accidentally cut my child's littl...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control data, there are three main routes of transmission for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual po...[Read More] Assessing Blood Infection Risks After Accidental Cut in Hospital
Concerns About Oral Sex and HIV Risk: What You Need to Know
I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that? I had a massage on July 2nd, where I had intimate contact with the massage therapist. I am a male and performed oral sex on a female without a condom, but there was no vaginal intercourse. A few months ago, I had a tooth extracti...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) data, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual...[Read More] Concerns About Oral Sex and HIV Risk: What You Need to Know
Concerns About Oral Sex and Infection Risks: A Medical Perspective
I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that? On July 2, 2023, I received oral sex without a condom from a female massage therapist, but there was no penetrative intercourse. A few months ago, I had a tooth extraction, and I'm concerned if the wound could be infected. A...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) data, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infection. 2. Blo...[Read More] Concerns About Oral Sex and Infection Risks: A Medical Perspective
Understanding Immune Dysregulation: Chronic Urticaria and Its Challenges
Immune dysfunction Hello, Doctor. I have been suffering from chronic urticaria for about four years, and it has not been cured. A previous doctor mentioned that this is a reaction of immune hyperactivity. However, since my diagnosis nearly a year ago, I have been experiencing rec...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is this situation due to immune hyperactivity or deficiency? Can both coexist? --> It may be better understood as "immune system dysregulation." Autoimmune diseases and allergic conditions are both result...[Read More] Understanding Immune Dysregulation: Chronic Urticaria and Its Challenges
Can You Contract HIV or Other Bloodborne Diseases Through Oral Wounds?
Medical issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about the risk of contracting HIV or other bloodborne pathogens through food that may have come into contact with the bodily fluids or blood of an infected person. Specifically, if I have cuts or sores inside or outside my mouth (...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the HIV virus has a very short survival time outside the body, so transmission is usually more likely to occur through direct oral contact with bodily fluids containing the virus during sexual activity. Currently, there have been no reported cases worldwide of contracting ...[Read More] Can You Contract HIV or Other Bloodborne Diseases Through Oral Wounds?
Understanding Oral Symptoms and HIV Concerns After Unprotected Sex
Oral symptoms raising suspicion for HIV? Hello Doctor: Nine weeks ago, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with a sex worker (two minutes of unprotected vaginal intercourse and three minutes of oral sex performed on her). About three weeks later, I experienced unexplained nasal ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control data, there are three main transmission routes for HIV: (A) Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infection. (B) Bl...[Read More] Understanding Oral Symptoms and HIV Concerns After Unprotected Sex
Understanding Postprandial Blood Sugar Fluctuations and Fatigue Symptoms
Previously measured elevated postprandial blood glucose levels using a glucometer? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a few questions. Last August, during a hot weather, I had a sweet smoothie, and shortly after, I experienced dizziness and fatigue, feeling sleepy. This fatig...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello, there are many conditions that could cause the situation you described. Regarding blood sugar levels, since they can sometimes be elevated, it is advisable to consult a physician for an evaluation and to have a blood test to check your hemoglobin A1c levels.[Read More] Understanding Postprandial Blood Sugar Fluctuations and Fatigue Symptoms
Understanding Abnormal Temperature Sensation in the Left Lower Body
Abnormal sensation in the left lower body, approximately below the navel? Abnormal temperature sensation on the left side of the body, where touching ice does not elicit a cold sensation and may even feel slightly warm at the moment of contact, suggests a potential neurological i...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult a neurologist. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Abnormal Temperature Sensation in the Left Lower Body
Understanding Chills and Shaking: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Chills and shivering? Recently, I suddenly felt chills and shivering, which lasted for about an hour, followed by mild nausea and a small amount of vomiting. After that, I suddenly felt fine. Since this has never happened to me before, I would like to ask what the possible diagno...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Feeling cold and shivering can sometimes be a precursor to a fever, but there are other potential causes as well. If a fever is present, you may want to consult an infectious disease specialist for differential diagnosis. If there is no fever, it would be advisable to see a famil...[Read More] Understanding Chills and Shaking: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Does Weather Influence CRP Levels in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients?
Does weather affect CRP levels? Hello Doctor, my son is 20 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for 3.5 years. He has been undergoing regular medication treatment for the past 2.5 years and is currently stable. However, I have noticed a peculiar phenomenon...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Patients with rheumatic diseases often experience more discomfort during damp and cold seasons, but weather does not affect the CRP (C-reactive protein) levels reported. Medication adjustments can only be made based on symptoms and the levels of CRP. Thank you.[Read More] Does Weather Influence CRP Levels in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients?
Understanding HIV Testing Timelines After Potential Exposure
HIV Testing Timeline Hello doctor, I had unprotected sexual intercourse in March of this year. In mid-April, I experienced a hoarse throat and a slight fever (37 degrees Celsius), but no other symptoms. At that time, I didn't think much of it due to work stress. Then in May,...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Great, regular follow-up has been established. The next follow-up will be from late June to early July. If the results are negative, you can feel reassured. Please continue to practice safe behaviors and avoid drug use.[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing Timelines After Potential Exposure
Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Test Results: Key Insights
Urticaria and Thyroid Testing After catching a cold at the end of February (with symptoms of sore throat and general weakness), I began to develop hives all over my body, particularly around my eyes and neck. I visited a clinic where I was prescribed steroids and received an inje...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is there a connection between urticaria and slightly elevated TSH levels? Do I need to see a rheumatologist for an examination? --> In cases of long-term urticaria, we sometimes check thyroid function. Your TSH is ...[Read More] Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Test Results: Key Insights
How Long Should You Wait to Take Antibiotics After Drinking Beer?
After consuming a bottle of beer, it is generally recommended to wait at least 48 hours before taking the antibiotic Norfloxacin. Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of antibiotics and may increase the risk of side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider for per...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to avoid alcohol consumption during the medication period. However, if you do drink alcohol, it is theoretically acceptable to take the medication after more than two hours. It is advised not to interrupt the treatment course, as it can indeed lead to bac...[Read More] How Long Should You Wait to Take Antibiotics After Drinking Beer?