Managing Wounds for Sensitive Hands: Tips for Cold Weather Care
Management of wounds from rich hand injuries? Hello, doctor. I have sensitive hands and suffer from dishydrotic eczema and eczema. When I encounter cold weather, my hands crack and bleed. Should I bandage the wounds? (The wounds vary in size.) I'm concerned about the risk of...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if you will be handling food, especially raw food, it is advisable to keep it covered. At other times, it may not be necessary. If there is bleeding or if the wound is very painful, then it should be covered. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Managing Wounds for Sensitive Hands: Tips for Cold Weather Care
Understanding Fluctuations in Hs-CRP Levels for Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients
Does eating salad cause fluctuations in hs-CRP levels? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and my main symptom is pain in the buttocks. Since March 2nd of last year, I have been taking two Salazopyrin daily and only taking Voltaren when I experience pain (th...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
1) The activity of ankylosing spondylitis naturally fluctuates and is not ineffective. 2) It is possible that medication was not taken, or the disease itself may be changing. 3) There are reports indicating that COVID-19 infection can lead to increased instability in autoimmune d...[Read More] Understanding Fluctuations in Hs-CRP Levels for Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients
Why Did the Effectiveness of Salazopyrine Diminish for My Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Why has the effect of Salbutamol diminished? Hello, Doctor Gao. I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and my main symptom is pain in the buttocks. Since March 2 of last year, I have been taking two Salazopyrin daily and only taking Voltaren when I experience pain (the pain ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1) For patients with ankylosing spondylitis, in the absence of special circumstances and without interruption of medication, the use of Salazopyrin (sulfasalazine) generally maintains effective control over HSCRP levels....[Read More] Why Did the Effectiveness of Salazopyrine Diminish for My Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding the Connection Between Nasal Congestion and Rapid Heart Rate
Tachycardia and nasal congestion? Since I was diagnosed last year, I have been experiencing a profound sense of nasal congestion. There have been several instances where I felt close to suffocating and had to go to the emergency room. I have undergone numerous internal medicine e...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding the issue of rapid heartbeat, most nasal decongestants, including some cold medications, can have the side effect of increased heart rate. This is something to be aware of. If drug side effects are ruled out, it may be necessary to check for arrhythmias. If arrhy...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Nasal Congestion and Rapid Heart Rate
Understanding Reactive Arthritis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Family Links
Leigh syndrome Hello Doctor, after a cold, I experienced pain at the insertion point of the Achilles tendon, which gradually developed into pain in the soles of my feet and in the joints of my hands. There is no redness or swelling in the joints. After an examination by the immun...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Many of my painful areas are symmetrical, but isn't reactive arthritis primarily asymmetrical? --> Yes, it is. However, whether arthritis is symmetrical or not is not a necessary criterion for diagnosing reac...[Read More] Understanding Reactive Arthritis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Family Links
Common Health Concerns: Food Safety, Skin Issues, and Child Hygiene
Please consult a doctor? Hello, Doctor. 1. If a bag containing food is placed on the footrest of a motorcycle, will the food inside the bag be contaminated with bacteria or be unclean? I'm concerned because shoes are often placed on the footrest, so I'm worried about ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The main concern is the spoilage of food that has been stored for too long. As long as it is sealed properly, the location should not significantly affect it. 2. Hello, this is likely due to low temperatures causing skin cracking. I recommend applying some moisturiz...[Read More] Common Health Concerns: Food Safety, Skin Issues, and Child Hygiene
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Causes and Next Steps
Blood test value issues? Hello Doctor, I had a blood test at the hospital the day before yesterday and found that the following liver-related indices were elevated: SGOT: 20 (reference range 5-34), DGOT: 39 (reference range 5-40), and ALP (alkaline phosphatase): 150 (reference ra...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, medications or a cold can indeed affect these values. Your ALP is only slightly elevated, but not significantly high, so it is unlikely to indicate other diseases. It is recommended to follow up in six months. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Causes and Next Steps
Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain During Cold Weather: Tips and Insights
When a cold front arrives, the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis tend to flare up? Dear Doctor, Happy New Year! I am a 20-year-old patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and I have been experiencing symptoms for 3.5 years. Currently, I am managing my condition with two Sulfasalaz...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Regarding the acute pain caused by the cold front, can I stop taking Celebrex (but continue with Salazopyrin), and switch to a more immediate but not suitable for long-term use strong analgesic (non-NSAIDs), and then...[Read More] Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain During Cold Weather: Tips and Insights
Understanding Muscle Pain and Nail Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Please ask your two questions? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about an issue I experienced. I was lying in bed in a poor position and suddenly tried to sit up like doing a sit-up. In that moment, I felt a sudden pulling or cramping sensation near my buttocks, close to the anus...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. What you mentioned is likely due to muscle strain caused by poor posture. If there are no specific discomforts afterward, it should be fine to just monitor it. 2. Regarding the nails, it appears that the variation in color is simply due to changes in blood flow and d...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Pain and Nail Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis: Medication and Pain Relief Tips
Medication-related issues in ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you the following questions: 1. Between Salazine and Celebrex, which one has fewer side effects and is more suitable for long-term use? 2. I am currently taking two capsules of Celebrex a day...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Between Salazine and Celebrex, which has fewer side effects and is suitable for long-term use? Salazine needs to be taken long-term and consistently. This medication addresses the root cause of the disease rather than...[Read More] Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis: Medication and Pain Relief Tips
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
Should You Worry About Small Bumps Under Your Armpit?
Please ask your question? Hello, today while taking a shower, I suddenly noticed one or two very small bumps near my armpit. I'm worried that they might be something unusual. Could it just be that I'm cold and got goosebumps? However, it also resembles something I have ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description and the images, it appears to be a skin gland, which is a normal physiological structure. There's no need to worry. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Should You Worry About Small Bumps Under Your Armpit?
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Shared needles Hello doctor, I recently shared a syringe for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the syringe at least an hour after he did. I've seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minute...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used, so it is crucial never to use needles that have been used by others. The so-called rash typically occurs during the secondary stage of syphilis, which happens approximately six weeks to six m...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Shared needles Hello doctor, I recently shared a needle for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the needle at least an hour after he did. I've seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minutes ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used. Therefore, it is crucial not to use needles that have been used by others. The so-called rash is associated with secondary syphilis, which typically occurs approximately six weeks to six mont...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Understanding Unexplained Pain After IV Treatment: Causes and Next Steps
Unexplained pain Hello Dr. Hong: After I finished my IV drip, the area around the vein feels hard and has a foreign body sensation, and it is painful. I would like to know what could be the possible causes of this? If I want to understand this further, which specialty should I co...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems to be phlebitis caused by the injection. Usually, applying a cold compress or using some anti-inflammatory ointment will gradually improve the condition. If the discomfort persists, you may consider consulting a plastic surgeon or a fami...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Pain After IV Treatment: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Injection Complications: Pain and Recovery After IV Medication
Regarding injection leakage? Hello, doctor. A while ago, when I received an injection (not an IV drip, just a regular intravenous injection), the nurse used a machine to administer the medication while I was not present. Before half of the medication was pushed through, my hand s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems to be phlebitis. Some individuals may experience inflammation for a longer duration. I recommend applying a cold compress. In addition to oral pain relievers, you can also purchase anti-inflammatory ointment to apply to the painful area,...[Read More] Understanding Injection Complications: Pain and Recovery After IV Medication
Understanding HPV, HIV Risks, and Vaccination for Gay Men
Cauliflower/HIV/AIDS Hello, doctor. I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Eight years ago, I had genital warts, which were treated over six months, and I received three doses of the nine-valent HPV vaccine. It has been eight years without a recurrence. I would like to know what ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
A. According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 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 infec...[Read More] Understanding HPV, HIV Risks, and Vaccination for Gay Men
Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Next Steps
Elevated white blood cell count? Hello, doctor. First, I would like to inform you that I am a patient with myasthenia gravis. I am currently taking four tablets of Mestinon daily and one tablet of Anspine weekly. Here are my questions: Since mid-September, I have been infected wi...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, we are currently in the era of COVID-19, so it is essential to rule out this possibility by conducting a self-administered rapid test and receiving the COVID-19 vaccine (at least four doses are recommended). 2. Secondly, the side effects of medications should also be c...[Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Elevated Basophil Levels: Allergies and Blood Health in Young Adults
Eosinophils Hello Doctor, I am Enen from the article #188677. Thank you for your prompt response, but I still have some doubts that I would like to ask you again: 1. You mentioned that elevated basophil levels are related to allergies. Given that I recently had a cold and have ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. You mentioned that elevated basophil levels are related to allergies. Given that I recently had a cold and have a history of allergies, could this cause my basophil levels to be elevated? In 2020, my basophil count wa...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Basophil Levels: Allergies and Blood Health in Young Adults
Understanding False Positives in Syphilis Testing: A Case Study
Is it possible for a treponemal test to yield a false positive result? I am 36 years old. In August, I donated blood and received a notification that my TPHA was positive and RPR was negative. In January, my blood donation results were still normal, all negative. In November, I w...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the two indices for syphilis, RPR and TPHA, show that RPR is more sensitive and can easily yield false positives, which may turn negative after syphilis treatment. On the other hand, the chance of false positives with TPHA is very low, and it typically remains positive eve...[Read More] Understanding False Positives in Syphilis Testing: A Case Study