Understanding Blood Test Results: Changes in White Blood Cell Counts and Allergies
Inquiry about blood test report values? Hello, Doctor. I had blood tests done on January 8 and July 4 of this year, and overall the values were normal. The only concerning changes were in the white blood cell differential: neutrophils decreased from 52.5% to 37.3%, and lymphocyte...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The COVID-19 vaccine is still relatively new, which may lead to a higher chance of side effects, and there are various symptoms that can occur after vaccination. However, most of these are temporary, so there is no need to worry too much. The ch...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Changes in White Blood Cell Counts and Allergies
Is It Safe to Dine Indoors and Stay in Enclosed Spaces During COVID-19?
Regarding COVID-19? Hello, doctor. Currently, Taiwan has tens of thousands of confirmed COVID-19 cases daily. Is it safe to stay indoors for extended periods (such as in libraries or cinemas)? Is wearing a mask indoors sufficient for safety? What about dining indoors? If dining i...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
During the pandemic, it is generally recommended to maintain a distance of at least 2 meters from others indoors and for both parties to wear masks, which can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Therefore, dining indoors carries a higher risk than simply being indoors. On...[Read More] Is It Safe to Dine Indoors and Stay in Enclosed Spaces During COVID-19?
Navigating Conflicting Medical Opinions: Lymphadenopathy vs. Cellulitis
The initial orthopedic consultation indicated lymphadenopathy, and the follow-up visit diagnosed cellulitis? Hello Doctor, my ex-husband was diagnosed with COVID-19 on June 26. During this time, several areas became swollen and formed hard lumps. The swollen areas initially inclu...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the main issue is the enlargement of the lymph nodes. One aspect that needs clarification is whether this lymphadenopathy occurred suddenly after a COVID-19 infection or if it has been present for some time. If it occurred suddenly, theoretically...[Read More] Navigating Conflicting Medical Opinions: Lymphadenopathy vs. Cellulitis
Is Indoor Dining Safe During Ongoing COVID-19 Cases in Taiwan?
Regarding COVID-19? Hello, doctor. Currently, Taiwan has tens of thousands of confirmed COVID-19 cases daily. Is it safe to stay indoors for extended periods (such as in libraries or cinemas), or is wearing a mask indoors sufficient for safety? If indoor dining is still not safe,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the main concern is whether there are protective measures in place. For example, if there are partitions or if the distance between diners exceeds 1.5 meters, then it is permissible to remove masks while eating, and this is not directly related to the number of confirmed c...[Read More] Is Indoor Dining Safe During Ongoing COVID-19 Cases in Taiwan?
Understanding Delayed Reactions to COVID-19 Vaccines in Elderly Patients
Adverse Reactions Following COVID-19 Vaccination Dear Doctor, My mother is 84 years old and has been taking anticoagulants due to a stroke. On June 20, she received her fourth dose of the vaccine; the first three doses were AstraZeneca, AstraZeneca, and Moderna. She did not expe...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that the issue is not a delayed reaction but rather an enlargement of the bruise due to long-term use of anticoagulant medication. Could you please specify which anticoagulant your mother is taking? Most commonly, it is Coumadin (warfari...[Read More] Understanding Delayed Reactions to COVID-19 Vaccines in Elderly Patients
Understanding Persistent Inflammation After COVID-19: When to Seek Medical Help
Multiple inflammations Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with COVID-19 on May 24, and it has been over a month now. I have been experiencing persistent gastrointestinal discomfort, and I often feel a dull pain during bowel movements. Additionally, I have a sensation of ongoing inflam...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: The five most common symptoms of MIS-A are fever (96%), hypotension (60%), decreased cardiac function (54%), difficulty breathing or wheezing (52%), and diarrhea (52%). However, various possibilities cannot be ruled out. If you experience any discomfort, it is advisable to...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Inflammation After COVID-19: When to Seek Medical Help
Concerns About Exposure to Unknown Liquid: Health Risks for Children
Contact with unknown liquid? Today, I took my son to the hospital. On our way there, we passed by a flower bed and sidewalk where there was a large puddle of some unknown thick liquid, which could have been vomit or feces. At that moment, we were in a hurry and didn't examin...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, in an outdoor environment with relatively good ventilation, the diseases you are concerned about, such as COVID-19, monkeypox, and influenza, are less likely to be contracted through contamination. These diseases primarily spread through inhalation of respiratory droplets ...[Read More] Concerns About Exposure to Unknown Liquid: Health Risks for Children
Understanding Sudden Thigh Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Recovery
Sudden pain? Hello, recently my family members tested positive for COVID-19, and I also tested positive. Then yesterday, I suddenly felt soreness in my thigh (it doesn't hurt when standing or walking, but after squatting, there is pain near a specific point on the right side...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, indeed some people with long COVID experience muscle soreness, which can be difficult to distinguish from strains. However, the management is the same: rest and heat therapy, as well as anti-inflammatory ointments such as Soothe, or acupuncture, can help alleviate symptoms...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Thigh Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Recovery
Effective Disinfection Methods for Paper Items During COVID-19
Disinfection related to the COVID-19 virus? Hello, doctor. I apologize for bothering you, but I would like to ask for your advice. During the COVID-19 pandemic, if I receive advertising mail or bills, I usually discard them immediately after use. However, for paper items that I n...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding the paper materials that may need disinfection, exposing them to ultraviolet light for at least 30 minutes can effectively kill viruses. As for leaving them to sit, there is currently no conclusive evidence on how long they should be left to ensure they are free ...[Read More] Effective Disinfection Methods for Paper Items During COVID-19
Post-COVID Symptoms: Taste Changes and Skin Concerns Explained
Please inquire about issues related to diagnosis? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with COVID-19 a while ago. This morning, I felt post-nasal drip, so I took a mucolytic medication prescribed by the hospital. I haven't taken it in a long time, and it seems a bit sour to me; occ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the taste of phlegm is indeed slightly sour and bitter, which is normal. Regarding the small blisters, it is likely that they were caused by accidental friction. There is no need to puncture them with a needle; they can be left to absorb on their own. Thank you for your qu...[Read More] Post-COVID Symptoms: Taste Changes and Skin Concerns Explained
Persistent Fever After Third COVID Vaccine: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Fever lasting for a week after receiving the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, with a history of exposure to a confirmed case? Hello, doctor. I am a sixteen-year-old student. Last Wednesday (June 8), I received my third dose of the BNT vaccine and had contact with a confirmed c...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, theoretically, it is possible to experience some discomfort within a week after vaccination; however, these symptoms, especially fever, rarely last more than a week. If you continue to have a fever in the next few days, it is advisable to take a rapid test to rule out COVI...[Read More] Persistent Fever After Third COVID Vaccine: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Can I Get the BNT Vaccine with a Sore Throat and Phlegm?
Can I receive the BNT vaccine? I have a slight sore throat and phlegm when I swallow. I am scheduled to receive the BNT vaccine this Wednesday. Is it safe for me to get vaccinated?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to first perform a COVID-19 rapid test. If the result is positive, it is advised to wait three months before getting vaccinated. If the result is negative and there is no fever on the same day, vaccination can proceed. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can I Get the BNT Vaccine with a Sore Throat and Phlegm?
Understanding Chest Pain and Cough: Causes and Treatment Options
Chest pain and cough? Hello, doctor. Since March, I have been experiencing pain in the center of my chest. I have visited both pulmonology and cardiology several times, and after undergoing X-rays and heart-related tests, everything came back normal. The pain occurs mainly in the...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description and the fact that you have already had an X-ray, it does seem more like costochondritis. However, costochondritis typically does not present with a cough. I recommend that you first get tested for COVID-19. If the result is negative and you still ...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Cough: Causes and Treatment Options
Vaccines and Inflammation: Understanding Symptoms in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Vaccines and Inflammatory Markers Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. Recently, after receiving the vaccine, I have developed new symptoms of chest pain, which has lasted for six months. Both cardiology and pulmonology have stated that it is not a heart or l...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, the vaccine can indeed trigger the activation of autoimmune diseases. First, it's important to determine whether the nature and location of the chest pain are related to ankylosing spondylitis; you may want to consult a rheumatologist. If that is ruled out, you should...[Read More] Vaccines and Inflammation: Understanding Symptoms in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Comparing mRNA and Subunit Vaccines for Ankylosing Spondylitis Management
The impact of vaccines on ankylosing spondylitis? Hello, doctor. Currently, among the COVID-19 vaccines, there are mRNA vaccines like BNT and Moderna, as well as subunit vaccines like High-End and Novavax. Could you please let me know if there are any research reports or medical ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Currently, there are no research reports available to compare which is less likely to cause a relapse or worsening of ankylosing spondylitis between mRNA vaccines and subunit vaccines. Thank you.[Read More] Comparing mRNA and Subunit Vaccines for Ankylosing Spondylitis Management
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever in COVID-19 Patients
Regarding the persistent low-grade fever in confirmed cases of COVID-19? Hello: I tested positive for COVID-19 via PCR on May 12. From May 11 to May 14, my axillary temperature was 37.5 degrees Celsius. From May 15 to May 24, my daily axillary temperature ranged from 37 to 37.3 d...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if you experience moderate to severe symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or altered consciousness, you should seek medical attention. If these symptoms are not present, it is advisable to rest more and drink plenty of water, as you should gradually improve. T...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever in COVID-19 Patients
Understanding IgA Nephropathy Treatment Options and Concerns
Treatment options for IgA nephropathy? Hello, Doctor! Recently, I had a kidney biopsy, and when reviewing the report, my attending physician asked me to take a picture of the report with my phone so I could look up the information at home. He only mentioned that the biopsy result...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
IgA nephropathy has different treatment approaches depending on the individual's condition. If there are any concerns, it is advisable to return for a follow-up and consult the primary physician for clarification. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding IgA Nephropathy Treatment Options and Concerns
Negative COVID Tests but Persistent Fever: What Could It Mean?
Two negative rapid tests but still experiencing a fever? Hello doctor, I am fifteen years old and have recently been quarantined at home due to close contact. I have taken two rapid tests, both of which were negative, but I continue to have a fever, with a maximum temperature of ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello: It should not be the case. Besides COVID-19, there are also some seasonal infections, such as influenza, urinary tract infections, the common cold, and even allergies that may occur. Remember to take protective measures and practice contact isolation.[Read More] Negative COVID Tests but Persistent Fever: What Could It Mean?
Could COVID Vaccine Trigger Arthritis Flare-Ups Months Later?
Will the recurrence of the condition after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine occur only three months later? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I suspect that after receiving the first dose of the BNT vaccine, my previously well-controlled ankylosing spondyliti...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello: The vaccines currently being administered may cause some patients to experience side effects; please refer to Attachment 1 for details. 2. If there are concerns about discontinuing medication or side effects after vaccination, please consult with your original physician fo...[Read More] Could COVID Vaccine Trigger Arthritis Flare-Ups Months Later?
Blood-Streaked Sputum After COVID-19: When to Seek Medical Attention?
The diagnosed patient is coughing up sputum with a slight trace of blood? I tested positive on May 19. Initially, I had a cough but no phlegm. By the morning of May 21, I noticed blood streaks in my phlegm when I coughed it up. My wife said that my coughing technique might be wro...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, COVID-19 patients may experience some microvascular bleeding in the throat during severe coughing, which can lead to blood-tinged sputum. Symptomatic treatment is recommended, and it should gradually improve. However, if there is persistent fever, chest pain, or severe sho...[Read More] Blood-Streaked Sputum After COVID-19: When to Seek Medical Attention?