Concerns About Infection Risks After Massage: What You Need to Know
Infection may be consulted? Hello doctor, I am currently on a business trip abroad. For the first time, a colleague took me to a massage due to back pain. The establishment was a regular massage parlor without any sexual services. Since I have never had a massage before, I had my...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Based on the photos, it appears to be skin symptoms that resemble friction or treatments involving mugwort; it is unlikely to be a sexually transmitted infection (including HIV). It is recommended to treat it as a regular wound. If there are still concerns, you may consult a near...[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks After Massage: What You Need to Know
Can Mouse Droppings Cause Severe Infections and Sepsis?
Inquire about the authenticity of this medical news article? Dear Dr. Lin, A family friend recently passed away. The elder had diabetes and felt symptoms of a urinary tract infection, so they took over-the-counter medication. That night, they developed a fever, which subsided af...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, mice and mouse droppings naturally carry many pathogens, and contact with them can indeed lead to severe bacterial infections. However, the progression of the condition you mentioned is not uncommon in diabetic patients and may not necessarily be related to mice. It is imp...[Read More] Can Mouse Droppings Cause Severe Infections and Sepsis?
Understanding the Risk of HIV Transmission Through Skin Contact
Probability of HIV infection I would like to ask the doctor, if I touched a person infected with HIV on a bruised area (approximately 4-5 days old) where the skin surface is peeling and scabbing (the skin looks dry with some flakes and does not feel wet to the touch), and then im...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. There are three routes of transmission for HIV: unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles and diluents, and transmission from an HIV-positive mother during pregnancy. 2. When touching a patient's wound, if you also have a wound and the patient is not adhering to t...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Transmission Through Skin Contact
Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Infection Risks and Long-Term Effects
Regarding COVID-19 vaccines? Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask: I received my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (AstraZeneca) on September 10, 2021, my second dose (BioNTech) on November 24, 2021, and my booster dose (BioNTech) on March 1, 2022. I would like to know what the ou...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, there is a certain probability of severe illness associated with COVID-19, which is related to factors such as the patient's age, pre-existing chronic conditions, and vaccination status. Your situation indicates that the likelihood of experiencing severe illness is lo...[Read More] Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Infection Risks and Long-Term Effects
Understanding Allergy Blood Test Results: Is Your Condition Serious?
Allergy blood test report I have been coughing for six months, and recently my nasal allergies have been almost daily, so I had blood tests done, but my lung function tests are normal. The doctor prescribed me an asthma inhaler, and I am hesitant to use it because it contains ste...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. In Eastern populations, asthma often presents primarily as a chronic cough, with typical wheezing being less common. This may be why your physician prescribed this medication. Currently, inhaled corticosteroids are the mainstay of asthma treatm...[Read More] Understanding Allergy Blood Test Results: Is Your Condition Serious?
Understanding Urine Ketones: What Does a 3+ Result Mean for Your Health?
The medical examination report indicates urine ketones at 3+? Hello doctor, in April of this year, I experienced redness, swelling, and pain in my left foot, and a doctor at a clinic diagnosed it as gout (without blood tests). I have a history of gout and usually manage my diet, ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
The production of urine ketones is usually related to prolonged fasting. Please consult a metabolic specialist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Urine Ketones: What Does a 3+ Result Mean for Your Health?
Could My Anxiety and Symptoms Indicate Hyperthyroidism?
Is this hyperthyroidism? Doctor, I would like to ask for your advice. I am someone who easily feels stressed and somewhat anxious. Recently, I've been experiencing sudden episodes of anxiety where my body feels hot and I sometimes sweat. This has been happening for about two...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Please visit a major hospital to check if your thyroid function is normal. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Could My Anxiety and Symptoms Indicate Hyperthyroidism?
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Severity and Progression in Young Adults
Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello Doctor: 1. Will the degree of spinal and cervical stiffness in patients with juvenile ankylosing spondylitis be more severe compared to those who develop the condition in adulthood? (Since the onset occurs earlier.) 2. Will every patient experience sp...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Will the stiffness of the spine and cervical spine in patients with juvenile ankylosing spondylitis be more severe compared to adults who develop the condition later? (Since the duration of the disease is longer.) --&...[Read More] Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Severity and Progression in Young Adults
Understanding Glomerular Filtration Rate and Hematuria Changes in Kidney Health
The glomerulus and occult blood? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 64.6, with the standard being greater than 60. Two years ago, it was 84. Does this indicate a decline in kidney function? Additionally, the urine occult blood test has ...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Occult blood testing is different from hematuria; it may be caused by recent infections, kidney stones, medications, or excessive exercise. The filtration rate can vary with fluid intake, renal function deterioration, and increased body weight. It is advisable to assess the prese...[Read More] Understanding Glomerular Filtration Rate and Hematuria Changes in Kidney Health
Risks of Eating Undercooked Pork: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Prevention
Consumption of undercooked pork? Hello: During dinner, I pan-fried some frozen pork collar, and since the meat was cut a bit thick and possibly not fully thawed, I cooked it for about 10 minutes before eating. After consuming some, I noticed the meat was pink, indicating it might...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
1. If there have been no symptoms of diarrhea in the past few days, can we rule out concerns, or is there still a possibility of parasitic infection even without diarrhea? 2. How long should one observe symptoms to determine if an infection has occurred? Generally, if there are...[Read More] Risks of Eating Undercooked Pork: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Prevention
When Can an ICU Breathing Tube Be Safely Removed?
When can the endotracheal tube be removed in the ICU? Hello Dr. Chiu, my mother is 72 years old. On October 9th, she suddenly vomited blood six times, with each episode producing approximately 300-400 cc of blood. She was treated in the emergency department, receiving four units ...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
The timing for extubation should respect the expertise of the ICU physician. If the patient has the following risks: 1. A risk of secondary bleeding, which generally requires observation for 48 to 72 hours. 2. Concerns about aspiration pneumonia resulting from the bleeding proces...[Read More] When Can an ICU Breathing Tube Be Safely Removed?
Do I Need Surgery for Gallstones? Understanding Symptoms and Treatment
Is surgery necessary for gallstones? Hello Doctor, I often experience abdominal bloating and discomfort after meals, and this year it has been particularly bothersome. I have been taking medications for my stomach and to relieve bloating. A few months ago, I had severe bloating t...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
This should be considered symptomatic, and it is advisable to discuss the feasibility of surgery or endoscopic stone removal with your gastroenterologist.[Read More] Do I Need Surgery for Gallstones? Understanding Symptoms and Treatment
Can I Pause My Salazopyrin Treatment for 2 Months? Expert Advice Needed
Regarding the issue of Seroquel medication? Hello Dr. Gao, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. I would like to ask about the continuity of the medication Salazopyrin. I have been taking 2 tablets of Salazopyrin daily to manage my condition for a year and a half. In the fi...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The decision to discontinue medication should be discussed with your attending physician, as they are most familiar with your condition and the changes in your CRP/ESR levels, making their decision more objective. In principle, if your conditio...[Read More] Can I Pause My Salazopyrin Treatment for 2 Months? Expert Advice Needed
Could It Be HIV? Understanding Symptoms After Unprotected Sex
Could it be HIV? Hello doctor, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with a woman yesterday. I have had a cold for three days, and the day after the unprotected intercourse, I noticed that I have swollen lymph nodes. Could this be HIV? I have never had unprotected sex before.
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries the risk of...[Read More] Could It Be HIV? Understanding Symptoms After Unprotected Sex
Ankylosing Spondylitis or Spinal Degeneration: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Ankylosing spondylitis or spinal degeneration? Hello Doctor: I am the one who previously asked about my case in <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/200623">#200623</a>. My blood test and MRI reports have come back. The blood test report (as mentioned by the ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I previously had an X-ray in the immunology department that showed a slight inflammation in the right sacroiliac joint (there was a bit of whiteness, but it was not obvious). However, the MRI report from the rehabili...[Read More] Ankylosing Spondylitis or Spinal Degeneration: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Understanding the Link Between Creatinine Levels and Hypertension Management
Hypertension and Elevated Creatinine Levels Dear Dr. Lin, Last December, my serum creatinine level was 0.78 mg/dL, with a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 122.6 mL/min. I weighed 64 kg and was 170 cm tall. This October, my serum creatinine increased to 0.9 mg/dL, and my micro...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Please take the medication as prescribed and follow up regularly. If you have any concerns, it is advisable to schedule an earlier consultation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Creatinine Levels and Hypertension Management
Understanding Urinary Hematuria and Glomerular Filtration Rate Changes
Urinary occult blood. Glomerular filtration rate? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask about the significance of my urine occult blood test results. Initially, it was 4+, and after 4 months, it changed to 5. Is this an improvement or a worsening for my kidneys? I have a history of ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Please take the medication as prescribed and follow up regularly. If you have any concerns, please return to the clinic to discuss them with your attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Urinary Hematuria and Glomerular Filtration Rate Changes
Understanding Recurrent Abscesses: Causes, Treatment, and Management
Recurrent abscess formation? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a few questions. I visited the infectious disease department on October 2nd due to an abscess and was prescribed antibiotics. Since then, the abscess has ruptured twice, but the area surrounding the abscess remai...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. It is likely pus that has not yet drained. 2. We need to assess the symptoms and the medication you are using to determine the next steps; I recommend coming in for an outpatient visit. 3. We need to see if the bacteria are resistant to the antibiotic or if surgical draina...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Abscesses: Causes, Treatment, and Management
Understanding Painful Swelling Near the Liver: Causes and Solutions
A swollen mass or lesion near the hepatic portal area? There is a swollen lump outside the liver area that feels the size of a pimple. It causes sharp pain when touched, and sitting on a chair or getting up also triggers the pain. However, standing or sitting for a long time does...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
You are likely referring to an anal gland rather than a hepatic issue. This enlargement is likely caused by a blockage of the sebaceous glands near the anal opening. If it continues to grow, it is advisable to seek treatment at a surgical clinic.[Read More] Understanding Painful Swelling Near the Liver: Causes and Solutions
Concerns About Superbug Infections in Home Environments
Concerns about superbug infections? Hello Dr. Lin, In my household, the elderly family members are accustomed to wearing outdoor shoes inside the house, except in the bedroom. Recently, an elderly family member returned home from the hospital and, unbeknownst to the family, wal...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
The term "superbugs" does not refer to bacteria that are particularly virulent, but rather to those that have multiple drug resistances. Therefore, if they cause a more severe infection, it can be difficult to treat in the absence of effective antibiotics, posing a sign...[Read More] Concerns About Superbug Infections in Home Environments