Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns
Chronic urticaria Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if chronic urticaria can only be managed with medication. I have been taking antihistamines for over two months, and during that time, I felt fine without itching, although sometimes my skin would be a bit red. A few years ago,...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The result of the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is acceptable; although it is marked as positive, the value is still within an acceptable range according to rheumatology standards, so there is no need to worry too much. Regarding chronic urti...[Read More] Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns
Concerns After Choking on Lutein Capsules: What You Need to Know
Choking on lutein capsules? After having breakfast in the morning, I took a lutein capsule, but it seems I didn't drink enough water. At first, I felt it stuck on the left side, and then I started to feel nauseous and kept coughing. I'm not sure if I vomited it out, but...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
If you feel increasingly short of breath, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with a pulmonologist to determine the possibility of pneumonia. If you only have a sensation of something stuck in your throat, an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist near your home can help...[Read More] Concerns After Choking on Lutein Capsules: What You Need to Know
Understanding Risks of Bloodborne Diseases: Key Concerns and Clarifications
Regarding issue #201311? Regarding your inquiry about the risks of HIV and other bloodborne diseases: 1. There is a potential risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases if a wound or blood comes into direct contact with mucous membranes or broken skin. However, if the area around...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. If there is no contact with the skin where the fingers touched, theoretically, there is no risk of transmission (referring to the absence of blood, not just the lack of visible blood). 2. The risk is extremely low because the virus must travel from the bloodstain to the ointm...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Bloodborne Diseases: Key Concerns and Clarifications
Understanding Positive Cryoglobulin Tests: Implications for Your Health
Cryoglobulin test Hello, doctor. In July, I tested positive for cryoglobulinemia with IgM (1+) due to vasculitis, and my RF IgM was 13.92. In early October, I retested and found cryoglobulinemia positive for IgM (1+) and IgG (1+), with RF IgM at 12.8. My usual symptoms are not si...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. In cases of cryoglobulinemic paraproteinemia, the immunoglobulins can sometimes be of a mixed type, resulting in positive tests for either IgG or IgM. Regardless of whether it is IgG or IgM, both can lead to elevated levels of γ-globulin, so th...[Read More] Understanding Positive Cryoglobulin Tests: Implications for Your Health
Understanding Tonsil Inflammation: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Inquiry about tonsil issues? Hello Doctor: Three days ago, I suddenly noticed that my left tonsil became red and swollen. I went to a nearby internal medicine clinic where the doctor confirmed that it appeared to be inflamed. I visited again yesterday because I noticed a small sp...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, if you're unsure whether it's tonsil stones, it's recommended to visit the ENT department at the hospital for further examination. If a CT scan is necessary, it will be arranged based on the physician's assessment.[Read More] Understanding Tonsil Inflammation: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Can Unwashed Clothes in a Bag Foster Bacteria and Mold Growth?
Mold growth on unwashed laundry? Hello Dr. Lin, I previously asked about the issue of bacteria and mold growth on clothing, and I appreciate your response. Regarding the clothing, I did not explain clearly; those clothes have been worn, and due to hiking and walking, I have sweat...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
The situation described is mold growth. In this case, the clothing should show signs of mold stains and have a musty odor. However, common methods for cleaning and disinfecting clothes, such as soaking in soapy water and sun exposure, are effective.[Read More] Can Unwashed Clothes in a Bag Foster Bacteria and Mold Growth?
Concerns About Bloodborne Diseases During Pediatric Urology Visits
Concerns and anxiety about medical consultations, worrying about blood and infectious diseases? Hello Doctor: Yesterday, I took my child to a pediatric clinic for a urology consultation. During the consultation, I noticed that the physician had a noticeable laceration at the base...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Direct contact of wounds or blood with mucous membranes or broken skin may pose a risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases. However, if there is blood at the base of the fingernail and the finger touches intact skin, theoretically, there is a risk of transmission. 2. The surf...[Read More] Concerns About Bloodborne Diseases During Pediatric Urology Visits
Understanding HIV Testing: Antigen and Antibody Detection Timelines
HIV testing issues? Hello, I would like to inquire about the Abbott fourth-generation HIV Early test, which can detect both antigens and antibodies. The antigen can be detected one month after exposure; however, regarding the antibody testing, can it still yield results if it has...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the fourth-generation rapid test detects both antigens and antibodies. It is expected that a positive result could be detected in about two weeks, but individual responses vary; some people may take three to four months to test positive. (A positive result for either antig...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Antigen and Antibody Detection Timelines
Health Risks of Storing Clothes: Bacteria and Mold Concerns
Bacterial and fungal growth on clothing? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask about a bag of clothes that I discovered, which I had forgotten to wash for three years. These clothes are all from a trip before the pandemic (around early 2020) and each item was stored separately in a ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, unless it's very humid, clothes left out should not breed a large amount of bacteria or mold (dry clothing lacks the nutrients to support bacterial or mold growth). It is also recommended not to use bleach; instead, take the clothes out and expose them to sunlight for...[Read More] Health Risks of Storing Clothes: Bacteria and Mold Concerns
Concerns About Dental Hygiene: Anxiety Over Clinic Practices and Safety
Regarding dental care? Hello, Doctor. I'm sorry, but I'm feeling very anxious. Yesterday, I went to the clinic for a dental check-up and cleaning. The dentist who attended to me kept chatting with the clinic staff while examining me. During the cleaning, water splashed ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, to be honest, based on the scenario you described, there doesn't seem to be a significant risk of infection unless there is reasonable evidence to suspect that the clinic has reused disposable medical materials or has not properly sterilized them (which would not be b...[Read More] Concerns About Dental Hygiene: Anxiety Over Clinic Practices and Safety
Understanding Black Spots on the Tongue: Causes and When to Seek Help
Tongue issues? Hello Dr. Lin, I suddenly noticed a small black spot on the side of my tongue while brushing my teeth. I would like to ask what this could be. I don't remember having it this morning... Is it possible for a mole to appear suddenly? Do I need to go to the hospi...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to see an otolaryngologist to find out what it is! The most common issue might be minor bleeding, which could appear as a bruise if it was accidentally scratched. However, it's safer to have a doctor confirm it. You can observe it for another week, a...[Read More] Understanding Black Spots on the Tongue: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Immune System Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Immune system issues Hello, Doctor Gao. I have a few questions to ask you, and I appreciate your help. 1. At the beginning of August, I developed a urinary tract infection and took antibiotics for two weeks. The symptoms disappeared, and I thought I was cured, so I didn't ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe there is a high possibility of reactive arthritis, especially considering your age and the occurrence of acute prostatitis along with unexplained joint effusion and swelling. I recommend that you consult a rheumatologist nearby. The Al...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Eye Exposure to Infected Fluids?
Transmission routes of HIV (ocular) Is it possible to get HIV infection if HIV-infected bodily fluids come into contact with the eyes?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, 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-...[Read More] Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Eye Exposure to Infected Fluids?
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter
What is the likelihood of contracting the HIV virus? Hello Doctor: - I had contact with a sex worker on August 16: unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse. - About 3 to 4 days after the incident, I felt a slight tingling sensation on the glans and noticed white or...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-in...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter
Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis Results: CREA and Color Insights
Urinalysis report CREA(U) (semi-quantitative) 100 mg/dL (-) pH 7.5 Bilirubin negative Color Straw (yellow) Glucose negative Ketone negative MALB(U) (...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The difference between yellow and straw-colored urine is minimal, and if there are no other abnormalities in the urine test, I believe it is not a concern. As for urine creatinine, it is related to kidney function, but in young males who consum...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis Results: CREA and Color Insights
Exploring Additional Tests for Persistent Low Hemoglobin in Diabetic Patients
Are there any other recommended tests to be done? Hello, my grandfather is a diabetes patient and was previously diagnosed with rectal cancer. Over the past two years, his regular diabetes monitoring tests have shown that his hemoglobin (Hb) levels have consistently been low (aro...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I recommend arranging a hematology outpatient appointment for the elderly gentleman to discuss with the physician the management of iron supplementation that has not been effective. Autoimmunity, bone marrow hematopoietic function, and tumors ma...[Read More] Exploring Additional Tests for Persistent Low Hemoglobin in Diabetic Patients
Understanding Eye Health: Redness and Yellowing of the Sclera
Issues with the sclera? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about something. While taking a shower, I looked at my eyes and noticed some blood vessels in the corners, and I’m not sure if they appear slightly yellowish. I read online that yellowing of the sclera can indicate liver o...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I think it's okay. If you're concerned, you can consult a hepatobiliary and gastroenterology specialist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is here to support you.[Read More] Understanding Eye Health: Redness and Yellowing of the Sclera
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello, doctor. I am 42 years old and have been experiencing occasional dull pain in my sacroiliac joint for the past six months. I have seen both orthopedic and rehabilitation specialists without any improvement. One day, I woke up at 4 AM due ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Am I certain that I have ankylosing spondylitis? --> Currently, the diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis requires not only blood tests but also clinical symptoms. The absence of nighttime back pain is somewhat unusu...[Read More] Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Stepping on Glass: Understanding Tetanus Risks and Symptoms
Stepping on glass? On Saturday, September 16, I stepped on a small piece of broken glass at home. The wound was very small, about 2-3 millimeters, so I didn't get a tetanus shot. However, by September 21, the muscle near my right zygomatic bone became a bit tense (the left s...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If there are any changes in the wound, please visit a hospital for diagnosis. Thank you for your message![Read More] Stepping on Glass: Understanding Tetanus Risks and Symptoms
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?
Autoimmune diseases Hello, Director Gao. I would like to ask you a question. Previously, I experienced full-body itching and developed hives whenever I returned home. After seeing a doctor, I took antihistamines for over a month, and now I no longer itch, but I still occasionally...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. An ANA titer of 1:80 is considered low, and if there are no symptoms, we usually recommend monitoring. 2. In cases of chronic urticaria, we sometimes test for syphilis, as untreated syphilis infection can lead to prolo...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?