Understanding Urine Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Urinary issues and proteinuria? Hello, doctor. On the evening of May 2nd, I visited a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and explained that my urine in the morning was darker yellow, with a lot of bubbles that lasted longer than ten minutes. Aside from the first morning ur...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: There are many causes of foamy urine, including disease-related factors (such as proteinuria) and general physiological states (such as higher urea concentration in the first morning urine). This phenomenon serves as a preliminary assessment tool for individuals to evaluat...[Read More] Understanding Urine Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice
How to Handle Your Child's Pinworm Infection: Essential Tips and Treatments
Childhood parasitic infections Hello Dr. Lin, I apologize for the interruption! I would like to ask what to do if my elementary school daughter has a pinworm infection. The other night, she woke up in the middle of her sleep complaining of itching around her buttocks. Upon checki...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
The treatment methods for different intestinal parasitic infections vary, and it is recommended to take children to a healthcare provider for diagnosis and to use antiparasitic medications as prescribed by the physician. Family members living in the same household usually need to...[Read More] How to Handle Your Child's Pinworm Infection: Essential Tips and Treatments
Understanding Seasonal Variations in CRP Levels for Ankylosing Spondylitis
CRP levels are generally higher in winter and lower in non-winter months. It is unclear if this has any specific significance? Hello, Doctor. My son is 20 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for 3.5 years. He has been undergoing regular medication treatme...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I don't have a very good explanation for this part. However, the difference in CRP levels between the two time points is not significant, so I believe that more aggressive treatment changes are not necessary. I think that during winter, th...[Read More] Understanding Seasonal Variations in CRP Levels for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Does Hyperthyroidism Affect Fasting Blood Sugar Levels?
Does hyperthyroidism affect fasting blood glucose levels? Hello, doctor! Four years ago, I had my first adult health check-up, and my fasting blood glucose was slightly elevated at 106. Four years later, I had my second check-up, and my fasting blood glucose is still 106. Could t...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Thyroid antibody tests should ideally be monitored once a year. If fasting blood glucose levels are elevated, it is advisable to check glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) to assess average blood sugar levels. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Does Hyperthyroidism Affect Fasting Blood Sugar Levels?
Understanding the Sudden Spike in Syphilis Levels: Causes and Concerns
Elevated syphilis titers? Hello doctor, I had a blood test for syphilis at the end of March, which showed a titer of 1:2. I was hospitalized and received penicillin treatment for 14 days. In early May, my blood test showed a syphilis titer of 1:256. Could you please explain why t...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. The syphilis index includes RPR (infectivity) and TPHA (past infection) categories; therefore, a result of 1:2X may indicate RPR, while 1:256X may indicate TPHA. 2. It is recommended to obtain information and consult with the medical facility to clarify the current situation.[Read More] Understanding the Sudden Spike in Syphilis Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Leg Swelling and Muscle Twitches: When to Seek Medical Help
Twitching and pain in the thigh area? The doctor would like to ask you: Last year, after injuring the bottom of my left foot, I experienced swelling in both legs up to my thighs. A subsequent CT scan revealed that I have narrowing of the lymphatic vessels in my legs, but the doct...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Please schedule an appointment with the neurology department for an examination. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Leg Swelling and Muscle Twitches: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection in Unsanitary Environments
Risk of HIV Infection Hello, doctor: I have a concern that I would like to ask you about. During my middle school years, the tutoring center environment was quite poor; there were very few restrooms, and the design might have been problematic, as there was often a puddle of urine...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, there is basically no risk! HIV is primarily transmitted through contact with blood, bodily fluids, and mucous membranes, mainly through sexual intercourse. The viral load in urine is very low, and splashes that come into contact with the skin typically do not pose a trans...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection in Unsanitary Environments
Do You Need to Repeat Allergy Testing After Five Years?
Do allergens need to be tested repeatedly? Hello, Doctor Gao: I am 21 years old this year and have had an allergic constitution since childhood. When I was 16, I underwent allergen testing (M25-130-Z MAST ALLERGY) at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, which tested 36 allergens, all of...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) I still have some allergic symptoms, but I'm not sure what the allergens are. Is it necessary for me to undergo the 36-item allergen test again? Generally speaking, is there a high probability that something tha...[Read More] Do You Need to Repeat Allergy Testing After Five Years?
Understanding HIV Testing Timelines After Potential Exposure
HIV Testing Timeline Hello doctor, I had unprotected sexual intercourse in March of this year. In mid-April, I experienced a hoarse throat and a slight fever (37 degrees Celsius), but no other symptoms. At that time, I didn't think much of it due to work stress. Then in May,...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Great, regular follow-up has been established. The next follow-up will be from late June to early July. If the results are negative, you can feel reassured. Please continue to practice safe behaviors and avoid drug use.[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing Timelines After Potential Exposure
Understanding Fever and Immune Disorders: Insights on Symptoms and Blood Tests
Immune diseases and related issues of fever? Hello, Doctor Gao. I would like to ask you a few questions: Recently (I'm not sure for how long), almost every night when I feel more fatigued, my body temperature rises slightly (around 36.7°C to 37.0°C or 37.1°C). If I rest for ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Recently, I have been experiencing slight increases in body temperature (around 36.7°C to 37.0-37.1°C) almost every evening when I feel more fatigued. If I rest or wake up from sleep, my temperature returns to normal. ...[Read More] Understanding Fever and Immune Disorders: Insights on Symptoms and Blood Tests
Understanding Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Symptoms, Tests, and Treatment Options
Autoimmune Thyroiditis Hello, Doctor. I have been tracking thyroid issues for many years. In November of last year, my tests showed TSH 4.43, Free T4 0.84, and anti-TPO 9295, along with asymmetrical eyes, with the right eye protruding. I have been experiencing chronic dryness in ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
It is recommended that you visit a medical center to see an endocrinologist and check for TSH receptor antibodies, as this antibody is related to exophthalmos. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Symptoms, Tests, and Treatment Options
Assessing HIV Infection Risks After Contact with a Sex Worker
Concerned about the risk of HIV infection? On April 29, I had contact with a sex worker, and there was no unsafe sexual behavior throughout the encounter. 1. The other party performed manual stimulation on me (using lubricant), and after ejaculation, they wiped with tissue. Is th...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. It is not considered a high-risk behavior; simply consult and follow up with a nearby medical facility. 2. If you still have concerns, please adhere to safe sexual practices and avoid sharing drugs.[Read More] Assessing HIV Infection Risks After Contact with a Sex Worker
Understanding Kidney Function Tests: When to Consult a Nephrologist
Please inquire about renal function data? Hello, Doctor Wu. I recently had a health check at a laboratory, and several kidney function-related parameters were reported within the normal range. However, my urine albumin showed an abnormal result. Here are the details: B.U.N. (Bloo...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
ACR = 0.015 does not require nephrology follow-up; annual health check-ups as originally scheduled are sufficient.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function Tests: When to Consult a Nephrologist
Concerns About Eating Food Touched by Cockroaches: What You Need to Know
Eating food that has been crawled on by cockroaches? This morning, I saw a piece of cake on the table and, without thinking much, I assumed it was breakfast and ate it. However, my brother told me that it had been on the table since yesterday, and the important part is that he sa...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Cockroaches carry bacteria, and the most severe consequence can be food poisoning leading to diarrhea; however, there should not be any issues with parasites. I recommend that you drink plenty of water, as it can help dilute potential bacterial...[Read More] Concerns About Eating Food Touched by Cockroaches: What You Need to Know
Understanding Dry Mouth: Salivary Gland Function and Reactive Arthritis
Sjögren's syndrome and sialography? Hello Doctor, (I forgot to attach the data and there were some missing words, so I am asking again.) My immunologist diagnosed me with possible reactive arthritis. Recently, after hearing that I have dry eye syndrome, the doctor arranged f...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. My doctor told me that my salivary gland function is impaired, likely due to arthritis-related xerostomia, which is different from typical dry mouth. Can reactive arthritis also lead to symptoms of dry mouth? Is it po...[Read More] Understanding Dry Mouth: Salivary Gland Function and Reactive Arthritis
Understanding Medication Concerns for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Celebrex vs. Salazopyrine
Medication-related issues in ankylosing spondylitis? Hello, doctor. I am #191897. 1. During my previous visit, I asked the doctor about the medication Celebrex (celecoxib). The doctor believed that my condition was not severe enough to require the use of Salazopyrin (sulfasalaz...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. When I previously consulted with my doctor regarding the use of Salazopyrin (Salar), the doctor believed that my condition was not severe enough to warrant its use, so I was prescribed Celebrex instead. However, I am a...[Read More] Understanding Medication Concerns for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Celebrex vs. Salazopyrine
Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Increase Risk of Low White or Red Blood Cells?
Does ankylosing spondylitis lead to a decrease in white blood cells or red blood cells? Hello, Doctor Gao. I am a 20-year-old patient with ankylosing spondylitis, diagnosed 3.5 years ago and currently undergoing stable treatment. I would like to ask you, excluding the effects of ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Ankylosing spondylitis does not cause leukopenia; however, untreated long-term ankylosing spondylitis may lead to mild anemia due to chronic inflammation suppressing bone marrow hematopoiesis. Additionally, if severe pain or poor control necess...[Read More] Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Increase Risk of Low White or Red Blood Cells?
Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need Medical Attention?
Eating undercooked pork in barbecue? When eating barbecue, I thought it was beef and consumed it medium-rare, only to later discover it was pork! Doctor, I have two questions: 1. Is it necessary to see an infectious disease specialist for this situation? 2. Is the prevalence of t...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the information from the Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan, a member of the indigenous community in Hualien County, Peng Zhao-xi, frequently consumed raw wild boar meat. Over a month ago, he developed a hard lump on the inner side of his left thigh. After exam...[Read More] Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need Medical Attention?
Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need to See an Infectious Disease Specialist?
Eating undercooked pork in barbecue? When eating barbecue, I thought it was beef and consumed it medium-rare, only to later find out it was pork! Doctor, I have two questions: 1. Is it necessary to see an infectious disease specialist for this situation? 2. Is the prevalence of t...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the information from the Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan, a member of the indigenous community in Hualien County, Peng Zhaoxi, frequently consumed raw wild boar meat. Over a month ago, he developed a hard lump on the inner side of his left thigh. After exami...[Read More] Concerns About Eating Undercooked Pork: Do You Need to See an Infectious Disease Specialist?
Understanding HPV Recurrence: Concerns and Vaccination Benefits
Regarding the recurrence rate of HPV? Hello, Doctor. About six years ago, I had genital warts in my anal area due to my reckless youth. At that time, I underwent treatment with electrocautery and topical medications. I experienced severe itching at night, but over the years, alth...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First of all, it is not easy to completely cure genital warts; safe sexual practices and contact isolation are necessary. 2. The optimal timing for administering the HPV vaccine is before the onset of sexual activity; however, young men and women who are currently sexually act...[Read More] Understanding HPV Recurrence: Concerns and Vaccination Benefits