Understanding Proteinuria: Key Questions About Kidney Health and Lifestyle
Inquiry Consultation Dear Dr. Wu, I had a health check-up in September 2015, during which my fasting blood glucose level was 95 mg/dL; my estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 105 mL/min; my albumin level was 3.5 g/dL; and my albumin-to-globulin ratio was 1.6. All of t...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Q1. News reports online indicate that some doctors state: "Chronic kidney failure typically takes 20 to 30 years from the initial damage to the kidneys until dialysis is needed." Dr. Wu, is this statement accurate? Given that different stages of chronic kidney disease (...[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria: Key Questions About Kidney Health and Lifestyle
Left Rib Pain on Release: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Pain upon rebound when pressing on the left rib cage? Hello doctor, for the past few months, I have been experiencing discomfort near the 10th rib on the left side of my body. There is no pain when I press on it, but I feel a sharp pain when I release the pressure. I also often e...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Regarding rib issues, please visit the orthopedic outpatient clinic. Wishing you health and safety.[Read More] Left Rib Pain on Release: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Inflammation Index and Its Impact on Adhesion in Ankylosing Spondylitis
The relationship between inflammatory markers and adhesions? Hello, Doctor. I have ankylosing spondylitis. Before treatment, I experienced pain in my buttocks and lower back. For the past year, I have been consistently taking 2 tablets of Celebrex daily, and my CRP levels have be...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) My current index is normal, and I hardly feel any pain in my buttocks. However, I do experience some discomfort in my lower back when leaning back, but it is minimal and does not significantly affect my daily life. Can...[Read More] Understanding Inflammation Index and Its Impact on Adhesion in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Understanding Your Immune Report: What Do the Results Mean?
Immunology Report Issues Dear Dr. Gao, I recently received the following immunology report from my blood test: - Ro-52: (+) - OJ: (-) - EJ: (-) - PL-12: (-) - PL-7: (++) - SRP: (-) - Jo-1: (-) - PM-Scl75: (-) - PM-Scl100: (-) - Ku: (-) - SAE1: (-) - NXP2: (-) - MDA5: (-) - TIF1...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Some of the results do not have reference values, as different hospitals may use different testing machines and reference values, making interpretation difficult. The other results that can be somewhat assessed are as follows: Anti-dsDNA 30.8 WH...[Read More] Understanding Your Immune Report: What Do the Results Mean?
Can Wearing a Used Bracelet Increase HIV Infection Risk?
Concerns about the risk of HIV infection? Hello, doctor! A few years ago, I purchased a clasp-style bracelet from a small online seller (which seems to have gone out of business since). After I put it on, I accidentally pinched the skin on my arm, which was very painful and cause...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is unlikely to indicate an HIV infection. However, if you are feeling very uncomfortable, you may consider getting tested for HIV. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can Wearing a Used Bracelet Increase HIV Infection Risk?
Assessing Bone Marrow Suppression Risks from Salazopyrin Use
Have I already experienced bone marrow suppression as a side effect from taking Salazopyrin? Hello Dr. Tseng, I would like to ask you another question. I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and my main symptom is pain in the buttocks. Since my blood test on March 2 of last ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The user's PLT and WBC are within normal ranges, but Hb is slightly low. Drug-induced bone marrow suppression typically affects WBC and PLT, so it is okay to continue the medication. Follow up with the attending physician for further discussion. There is no need to take iron...[Read More] Assessing Bone Marrow Suppression Risks from Salazopyrin Use
Understanding CA72-4 Levels: Are They Linked to GERD and Cancer Risk?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Last year, my CA 72-4 index was 13, and this year it is 24. I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and I'm unsure if this elevated index could be related to my condition. Based on this index, is there a high probability of cancer...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
I'm not an expert in gastroesophageal reflux disease, so I'm afraid I might not provide the correct information. I recommend consulting a gastroenterologist. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding CA72-4 Levels: Are They Linked to GERD and Cancer Risk?
Can Probiotics and Omega-3 Foods Help Manage Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Is taking probiotics or regularly consuming foods rich in omega-3 beneficial for ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Dr. Tseng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and I have been experiencing symptoms for three and a half years. Currently, I take two tablets of Celebrex and on...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Online users suggest that omega-3 can combat inflammation, but its effectiveness in improving the inflammatory condition of ankylosing spondylitis is limited; it should only be used as a supplement and cannot be used for treatment. Probiotics or omega-3 are not expected to have a...[Read More] Can Probiotics and Omega-3 Foods Help Manage Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Is My New Lower Back Pain a Side Effect of Salazopyrin or AS Symptoms?
My new lower back pain symptoms could be indicative of ankylosing spondylitis, or could they be a side effect of taking Celebrex? Hello Dr. Zeng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis and have been experiencing symptoms for 2 years. In the first year, I mainly took anti-infl...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Is it true that the side effects of Seroquel need to be differentiated? If back pain is a side effect, it will not cause permanent harm to the body. It is recommended to follow up with the attending physician for evaluation.[Read More] Is My New Lower Back Pain a Side Effect of Salazopyrin or AS Symptoms?
Understanding Inflammation Index and Its Impact on Adhesion in Ankylosing Spondylitis
The relationship between inflammatory indices and adhesions? Hello, Doctor. I have ankylosing spondylitis. Before treatment, I experienced pain in my buttocks and lower back. For the past year, I have been taking two tablets of Celebrex daily, and my CRP levels have been maintain...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The likelihood of spinal adhesions is related to various factors, including inflammation levels, smoking, previous adhesions, obesity, and more. Of course, if there is no pain and inflammation levels are normal, the chances of developing adhesions in the lower back are reduced. E...[Read More] Understanding Inflammation Index and Its Impact on Adhesion in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Shared Soap in Hotels
Risk of HIV Infection Hello Doctor: I would like to ask you about an anxiety issue I have. Many years ago, while traveling with classmates and staying at a hotel, I forgot to bring my bathing supplies. I mistakenly thought there was soap on the soap dish, so I applied it to my bo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned does not pose a risk of HIV infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Shared Soap in Hotels
Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Snail in Vegetables
Parasitic issues? Hello Doctor: I have a habit of steaming vegetables. However, during dinner the day before yesterday, I accidentally bit into a small snail (and even broke its shell) in the vegetables. Although I immediately spat it out, I am still worried about the risk of par...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It is impossible to predict whether all of them are cooked. 2. Unless one is traveling to areas with a high prevalence of parasites, such as Africa, or during outbreaks of infections, preventive medication is rarely necessary. 3. If there are gastrointestinal discomfort...[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Snail in Vegetables
Understanding Urine Odor: What Pineapple and Health Indicators Mean
The odor of urine? Hello, doctor. After eating pineapple yesterday, I went to the bathroom and noticed a somewhat pungent smell, somewhat resembling pineapple. I'm quite worried because I had a weak positive for protein in my urine during a high school health check seven yea...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, many foods, including pineapple, can indeed affect the odor of urine. Therefore, the situation you mentioned is a normal physiological phenomenon. As long as there is no noticeable foam or blood in your urine, there is no cause for concern. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Urine Odor: What Pineapple and Health Indicators Mean
Understanding HIV Infection Risks and Testing: Your Questions Answered
Risk of HIV Infection Hello Doctor, I apologize for having two questions to ask you: 1. I once shared a bowl of ice with a friend of a friend (someone I don't know at all). If both parties had open sores in their mouths, is there a risk of HIV infection? Is there a need for ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you described does not pose a risk for HIV infection, so there is no need for HIV testing. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding HIV Infection Risks and Testing: Your Questions Answered
Understanding Occipital Pain: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Pain in the back of the head? In the past two to three weeks, I've been feeling that my head is different from usual. Normally, it feels light, but recently it feels like there's something in my head, a sort of foggy sensation. When I'm focused on a task, it's...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the likelihood of a confirmed diagnosis is indeed higher. It is recommended that you first perform a rapid test. If the result is positive, make sure to rest adequately; you should gradually recover. If the result is negative, it may indicate ano...[Read More] Understanding Occipital Pain: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Is My New Lower Back Pain a Side Effect of Salazopyrin or AS Symptoms?
My new lower back pain symptoms could be indicative of ankylosing spondylitis, or they might be a side effect of taking Celebrex? Hello, Doctor. I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and I have been experiencing symptoms for two years. During the first year, I primarily too...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here is my response: 1) Starting from the second month after taking Salazopyrin, I developed new symptoms of back pain. However, I have not experienced any rashes, fever, jaundice, pallor, diarrhea, headaches, vomiting, or any other physical ...[Read More] Is My New Lower Back Pain a Side Effect of Salazopyrin or AS Symptoms?
Concerns About Hookworm Infection After Stepping in Dog Waste
Stepping barefoot on dog feces? On my way to class today (wearing flip-flops), I accidentally stepped in dog feces without noticing it on the ground. Although I was wearing flip-flops, my foot still came into contact with it. I found some tissue to clean my foot about twenty minu...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the situation you mentioned, the likelihood of a parasitic infection is very low. It is recommended to monitor the condition, provided there are no subsequent symptoms of fever or lymphadenopathy. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Concerns About Hookworm Infection After Stepping in Dog Waste
Understanding Recurring Skin Infections: Causes and Treatments
Skin infection issues? There is a specific area on my calf that has become particularly rough due to prolonged friction with my pants. The skin in that area is darker, approximately 2.5 cm in size. Later, I experienced a sensation of a foreign body, and upon applying pressure, I ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the condition you mentioned is likely folliculitis. You can use iodine ointment or antibiotic ointment. It's important to avoid squeezing or picking at it. Typically, this condition occurs more easily in hot and humid environments, so it's recommended to wear bre...[Read More] Understanding Recurring Skin Infections: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Kidney Function Tests and Chronic Kidney Disease in Seniors
Kidney function tests Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about a 90-year-old patient whose glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was found to be in the range of stage 2 during a blood test in early March. Does this indicate chronic kidney disease (CKD), or should we wait for the next b...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Matza: 1. "Chronic" kidney disease refers to a condition where kidney function abnormalities persist for a duration of 3 to 6 months with minimal variation. 2. Regarding the 90-year-old elder you mentioned, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) falls within stag...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function Tests and Chronic Kidney Disease in Seniors
Understanding Fluctuating Urine Sugar Levels: What Do They Mean?
Inquiry Consultation Dear Dr. Lee, I would like to ask you a question. When I was 18 years old, I underwent a health check-up. The urine test (dipstick test) showed an abnormal glucose (Glu) level of ++. However, being young at the time, I did not pay much attention to the resul...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If fasting is not observed before the health check, it may lead to the presence of glucose in the urine. Fasting blood tests are more accurate. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Fluctuating Urine Sugar Levels: What Do They Mean?