Risk of HIV Infection from Needle Stick Injury: What You Need to Know
HIV infection risk issues I apologize, but I would like to ask about a needle that appears to have a small amount of dried blood on it (not a syringe needle, but a regular needle). I accidentally pricked myself with the needle and bled. Is there a possibility of contracting HIV i...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
If the blood is from another person and it penetrates your skin causing bleeding, there is theoretically a risk of transmission. However, since the HIV virus can only survive outside the human body for a maximum of a few minutes, dried blood is generally very unlikely to transmit...[Read More] Risk of HIV Infection from Needle Stick Injury: What You Need to Know
Symptoms of High Testosterone in Men: Hair Loss and More
Regarding elevated androgen levels in males? I would like to ask what symptoms are associated with elevated androgen levels? Recently, I discovered an issue with male pattern baldness in dermatology, and I'm a bit concerned that it might be caused by high androgen levels lea...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: High levels of male hormones in men can lead to excessive and dense body hair, as well as a robust beard. Your symptoms may be related.[Read More] Symptoms of High Testosterone in Men: Hair Loss and More
Understanding Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria: Risks and Treatment Options
Please inquire about the issue of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the human body? Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask the following questions, and I appreciate your time in responding: My father underwent surgery for cancer in December last year and experienced a bowel obstructio...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are gradually replaced by regular bacteria once they return to the community, so the most effective treatment is to avoid prolonged stays in healthcare facilities or nursing homes. 2. The body naturally harbors bacteria, including antibiotic-res...[Read More] Understanding Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria: Risks and Treatment Options
Understanding Behçet's Disease: Symptoms and Diagnosis in Adults
Behçet's disease? Hello, doctor. I am a 43-year-old male. Previously, I experienced some issues with my glans and foreskin; when I tried to retract the foreskin to clean the glans, it would sometimes cause minor tears, but this would heal after a while. This symptom occurred...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The oral mucosal ulcers associated with Behçet's disease, similar to thrush, often occur in multiple locations, and the ulcers in the genital area are also similar. Based on your symptoms, it seems unlikely to be Behçet's disease. Addi...[Read More] Understanding Behçet's Disease: Symptoms and Diagnosis in Adults
Understanding the Significance of Brown and Black Residue in Nasogastric Tube Aspirate
The color of the gastric aspirate from a nasogastric tube? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about the nasogastric tube aspirate that is brown in color and contains some black, viscous material. What could this indicate?
Dr. Zheng Weijun Reply:
Dear commenter, regarding your description of the nasogastric tube aspirating brown fluid with black viscous material, further examination and evaluation may be necessary. The contents aspirated from the nasogastric tube may be related to ingested foods, such as iron-rich foods l...[Read More] Understanding the Significance of Brown and Black Residue in Nasogastric Tube Aspirate
Can Sex Toys Transmit STDs? Understanding Safety and Hygiene Concerns
Can sex toys potentially lead to sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? Hello, I recently purchased a sexual wellness product online. The outer packaging appeared intact, but I later discovered that the inner packaging was damaged. I immediately washed the item and my hands with...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello, the HIV virus is difficult to survive outside the human body, and the risk of infection is very low. It is recommended to wash and then disinfect with alcohol before use, and to pay attention to any damage to the skin or mucous membranes to reduce the risk of infection fro...[Read More] Can Sex Toys Transmit STDs? Understanding Safety and Hygiene Concerns
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 Creatinine and Glomerular Filtration Rate Changes
Creatinine and Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) Hello, doctor. I have hepatitis B and have been following up with a gastroenterologist while taking antiviral medication. My serum creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) readings are as follows: - June 2016: 0.84 mg/dL, G...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
You can go to a nephrology department for a detailed examination and evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Creatinine and Glomerular Filtration Rate Changes
Can You Contract Gonorrhea Without Symptoms? Key Insights and FAQs
Can one contract gonorrhea without any apparent reason? 1. Can gonorrhea be contracted without any apparent reason? 2. What is the incubation period for gonorrhea? 3. What are the common symptoms of gonorrhea in women? 4. If I had unprotected sexual intercourse with my regular pa...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which is also known as gonococcus. It is a common issue among young populations, alongside genital warts (commonly referred to as "cauliflower") and syphilis. According to the W...[Read More] Can You Contract Gonorrhea Without Symptoms? Key Insights and FAQs
Can You Get Gonorrhea Without Symptoms? Key Facts and Insights
Can one contract gonorrhea without any apparent reason? 1. Can gonorrhea be contracted without any apparent reason? 2. What is the incubation period for gonorrhea? 3. What are the typical symptoms of gonorrhea in women? 4. If I had unprotected sexual intercourse with my ste...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which is also known as gonococcus. It is a common issue among young populations, along with genital warts (commonly referred to as "cauliflower") and syphilis. According to the ...[Read More] Can You Get Gonorrhea Without Symptoms? Key Facts and Insights
Understanding Low C3 Levels During Early Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Low C3 complement levels? Due to being in the early stages of pregnancy (5 weeks), my doctor had me undergo multiple blood tests, and I just saw the results in my health record. My C3 level is only 87 mg/dL (the normal range is above 90). I already have Sjögren's syndrome, b...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. There are many reasons for a decrease in complement C3 levels. If it was previously normal and has now decreased, it may be related to immune system activation. If you have Sjögren's syndrome, it is indeed possible to have lower complement...[Read More] Understanding Low C3 Levels During Early Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Chronic Dry Mouth and Tongue Pain: Unraveling the Mystery of Symptoms
Dry mouth and tongue pain for many years without a definitive diagnosis? Hello Doctor, my mother has been experiencing symptoms of reduced saliva for about 30 years. She has seen dentists, rheumatologists, and family medicine doctors, and underwent a sublingual gauze test which c...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. My suggestions are as follows: 1. You may consider returning to a rheumatology clinic for evaluation. If necessary, a salivary gland biopsy may indeed be required, as sometimes the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome necessitates this examina...[Read More] Chronic Dry Mouth and Tongue Pain: Unraveling the Mystery of Symptoms
Risks of Using IV Bags for Enemas: Health Concerns Explained
Using an IV bag to infuse water into the rectum for bowel evacuation? Hello doctor, I am asking on behalf of my mother. Everyone in the family has talked to her about this, but she won't listen. She is almost 60 years old, and recently she learned a strange way of using the ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Basically, if the water is contaminated, there is a risk of causing inflammation in the intestines if it is administered too deeply. However, if the water is clean, it is equivalent to an enema, and there are generally no significant side effects.[Read More] Risks of Using IV Bags for Enemas: Health Concerns Explained
Understanding Brown Stringy Vomit: Causes and Concerns
Vomiting with brown, stringy material? Hello Doctor: Since last night, I have been experiencing abdominal bloating and nausea, but I only vomited this morning. After vomiting, I noticed that the yellow vomit contained brown, thread-like substances, and I am concerned it might be ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, it is difficult to confirm whether there is mild bleeding. In fact, during vomiting, the esophagus can sometimes stretch forcefully, which may lead to tearing and result in mild bleeding. If there is gastric bleeding, the vomit is typically tarry in appearance. It is advis...[Read More] Understanding Brown Stringy Vomit: Causes and Concerns
Concerns About Infection and Parasites from Snail Contact
Infection and parasitic issues? Hello, Doctor. 1. If I accidentally kicked a snail while wearing flip-flops (and I'm not sure if my foot made direct contact with the snail), and afterwards I wiped my foot with a wet wipe, is there a concern about parasitic infection? 2. I...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. As long as there are no obvious wounds on the foot, it will not occur. 2. Yes, it can occur. Dupuytren's contracture is caused by repetitive irritation leading to chronic inflammation. Reducing the irritation is an important part of treatment, and you can consult a derm...[Read More] Concerns About Infection and Parasites from Snail Contact
Could My Symptoms Indicate Rheumatoid Arthritis? A Follow-Up Inquiry
Please provide the content you would like me to translate? Hello Doctor: I have a few more questions. The pain I've been experiencing has decreased over the past few days, and my joints have never been swollen; the sharp pain lasts only a few seconds and disappears with slig...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I don't believe it is rheumatoid arthritis. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.[Read More] Could My Symptoms Indicate Rheumatoid Arthritis? A Follow-Up Inquiry
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Neutrophils, Monocytes, and Lymphocytes
Abnormal lymphocytes and leukocytes in blood test report? Hello, I went to the emergency room last November due to abdominal pain. I just checked my health records and saw the blood test report from that time, which showed three values highlighted in red: Neutrophil - 90.0%, Mono...
Dr. Zheng Weijun Reply:
Dear commenter, based on the information you provided, the proportions of neutrophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes in your blood report are 90.0%, 2.0%, and 7.5%, respectively. These values are slightly abnormal, as neutrophils typically range from 50-70%, monocytes from 2-10%, an...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Neutrophils, Monocytes, and Lymphocytes
Understanding Elevated Gamma-Globulin Levels: Potential Causes and Implications
Elevated γ-globulin levels? Hello, doctor. Previously, I was concerned about the possibility of having multiple myeloma. Later, I received some blood test results: FLC Lambda 11.89 (5.71-26.3) / FLC Kappa 14.45 (3.3-19.4) / FLC K/L 1.22 (0.25-1.65). The Kappa level of 14.45 (3.3-...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. It appears that your γ-globulin levels are elevated. Does this mean I have multiple myeloma? --> No. Infections or autoimmune diseases can also cause a slight increase. The manifestations of multiple myeloma are d...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Gamma-Globulin Levels: Potential Causes and Implications
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Anxiety and Joint Pain Connection
Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello, Doctor. I have a tendency towards anxiety and hypochondria. Last October, I visited a doctor because my fingers would stiffen when I was nervous, and I often experienced joint pain. Initially, I consulted a neurosurgeon who examined me and suggested th...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Can the test results change from normal to abnormal after six months? --> Yes, changes may occur. 2. Does the doctor think it's necessary for me to see a rheumatologist again? --> Your symptoms are mild, s...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Anxiety and Joint Pain Connection
Can My Son Continue Taking Salazopyrin for Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Can I continue taking Salazopyrin? Hello Doctor, my son is 20 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for 3 years. For the past year and 4 months, he has been taking 2 tablets of Salazopyrin daily (without NSAIDs). Previously, he was on NSAIDs (without Salazo...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here is my response: 1) If my son experiences dizziness when getting up from a lying position due to mild anemia caused by the use of Salazopyrin, and no other causes for the dizziness can be identified, then we must weigh the two harms and c...[Read More] Can My Son Continue Taking Salazopyrin for Ankylosing Spondylitis?