Understanding Intermittent Pain Under the Left Chest: Causes and Insights
Pain in the lower left chest? Hello, doctor. This morning, I woke up due to a sharp pain in the lower left side of my chest. It feels like intermittent sharp pain (not related to breathing). The pain extends to the side as well, and I can't pinpoint a specific tender spot; I...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, heart valve issues are unlikely to be the cause of your symptoms. The most probable reason is a mild muscle strain related to posture, possibly due to your sleeping position or physical activity. This usually allows the muscles to relax and rest, and it should gradually im...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Pain Under the Left Chest: Causes and Insights
Risk of Hepatitis B Transmission After Accidental Blood Exposure
Hepatitis B transmission issues? Hello, doctor: I have received the hepatitis B vaccine and have tested positive for antibodies (surface antibody 81, core antibody 0.10). A few days ago, while changing the dressing for an uncle with liver cirrhosis at the hospital, I accidentally...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/Page/jlS2jBHpodI34ATlKUy3oQ): (1) Mode of Transmission: Hepatitis B surface antigen can be found in body fluids and secretions, but only blood, semen, and vaginal secretions are inf...[Read More] Risk of Hepatitis B Transmission After Accidental Blood Exposure
Understanding Changes in Creatinine and GFR: What You Need to Know
Creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) can vary significantly? In 2020, after a 12-hour fasting test, the results showed a creatinine level of 0.80 and a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 121. In 2023, after having a meal at around 1 PM, doing strength training and aer...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Creatinine levels are related to diet, including meat intake and hydration. It is recommended to fast for 8 hours prior to testing. To accurately assess kidney function, meat consumption should not be excessive. A comparison of results is necessary to determine if there has been ...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Creatinine and GFR: What You Need to Know
Concerns After Toddler Falls: X-Ray Insights and Safety Tips
A child fell from a height onto a tiled floor? Hello, doctor. My son, who is one year and ten months old, fell from his high chair onto the tile floor tonight. He stood up after falling from a height of about 120 cm and cried loudly. We immediately took him to a nearby surgical c...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. X-ray results can reveal significant injuries to the skull and cervical vertebrae, but they cannot detect bleeding. 2. Due to radiation concerns associated with computed tomography (CT) scans, clinicians will first assess symptoms to determine the necessity of the sc...[Read More] Concerns After Toddler Falls: X-Ray Insights and Safety Tips
Recovery from Marine Vibrio Infection After Fish Sting: A Patient's Journey
I am currently abroad and would like to inquire about the recovery situation for Vibrio parahaemolyticus infections? Hello Doctor, I am currently in Oman (as of February 15). On February 11 at 3 PM, while diving to catch fish, I accidentally got stung on the back of my hand by a ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the antibiotic you were prescribed is a first-generation antibiotic for general cellulitis. However, based on your images, it does appear to have improved. As for the pain or pigmentation changes, these are likely residual symptoms of cellulitis. Please be cautious and che...[Read More] Recovery from Marine Vibrio Infection After Fish Sting: A Patient's Journey
Can Gout Recur Days After First Attack in Patients with No History?
Is it possible for someone with no history of gout to experience a recurrence of symptoms just a few days after the first attack? Hello Doctor, thank you for taking the time to answer my questions. My mother, who is 72 years old, has high blood pressure and her height is 153 cm w...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Gout can indeed have recurrent attacks in a short period of time. Gout attacks typically present with redness and heat, so the absence of these symptoms does lower the likelihood. Eating shiitake mushrooms is fine, and consuming fish is also ac...[Read More] Can Gout Recur Days After First Attack in Patients with No History?
Understanding Elevated Mono Levels: When to Seek Medical Advice
Abnormal blood test results? Hello Doctor, I had a blood test a few days ago and found that my Mono level is 11.4, which is above the normal range, while other parameters are normal. I would like to ask what this might indicate and which specialty I should consult? Background: ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, MONO (mononuclear cells) levels may fluctuate due to physical conditions, disease factors, or medications. However, since subsequent values are gradually returning to normal, it is likely in the recovery phase. It is recommended to continue monitoring the indices, and if a...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Mono Levels: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
Autoimmune diseases Hello Doctor: I recently underwent blood tests for my immune system, and the results are as follows: IgE: 1075, C3: 111.6, C4: 30.9, Anti-dsDNA Ab: Interpretation: Negative, Anti-dsDNA Ab: Reactivity: 0.94, EJ: Negative, Jo-1: Negative, Ku: Negative, MDA5: Neg...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Your dsDNA and SRP results are both positive, and it is important to discuss these findings with your physician to confirm the diagnosis. The diagnosis of autoimmune diseases requires not only blood test results but also consideration of clinica...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
Understanding COVID-19 Recovery: When Will You Test Negative?
COVID-19 Hello Doctor, I tested positive on February 6th, but today is February 15th and my rapid test is still positive, with the second line still quite clear. I would like to ask how long it will take for me to test negative. Am I still contagious? Traditional Chinese medicine...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The CT value of PCR tests can provide some insight into infectiousness, but it is generally believed that the infectiousness is not very strong. 2. It is recommended to wear a mask and wash hands frequently; this should allow for safe outings in well-ventilated outdoor ...[Read More] Understanding COVID-19 Recovery: When Will You Test Negative?
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Key Questions Answered
Abnormal blood test results: related questions? Hello Doctor, I am #192661. I apologize for bothering you again! I may not have made it clear in my previous message; the sequence should be as follows: - 2022/6 Mono 5.4 - 2022/8 Mono 6.2 - 2022/10 Mono 9.2 - 2023/2 Mono 11.4 ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, since your other indices are normal, the likelihood of a hematological issue is very low. An increase in monocytes is just one possible manifestation of leukemia; clinically, there is no specific threshold for monocyte levels that defines leukemia. However, if your white b...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Key Questions Answered
Can I Use SSRIs for Anxiety with Immune Thrombocytopenia?
Use of SSRIs in Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) Dear Dr. Gao, I have been diagnosed with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) for about 10 years, and my platelet count has been consistently between 10,000 and 20,000. Currently, I am not receiving any treatment for my plat...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The impact of SSRIs on platelet function and coagulation is generally minimal. However, caution is warranted for patients with ITP (Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura). I have a few suggestions: 1. There have been significant advancements in the...[Read More] Can I Use SSRIs for Anxiety with Immune Thrombocytopenia?
Can Omega-3 Help Reduce Inflammation in Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Can omega-3 improve the inflammatory condition of ankylosing spondylitis? Hello, Doctor. I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis and have been experiencing symptoms for three and a half years. Currently, I take two capsules of Celebrex and two capsules of Humira daily to manag...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Can omega-3 improve the inflammatory condition of ankylosing spondylitis? --> Currently, there is no clear evidence. Omega-3 is a food supplement, not a medication, and its anti-inflammatory effects are limited. A...[Read More] Can Omega-3 Help Reduce Inflammation in Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding PEP: Effectiveness, Testing, and Oral Exposure Risks
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) Hello Dr. Hong, I would like to ask a few questions. On October 29 and 30, I performed unprotected oral sex for only a brief period of two to three minutes, without ejaculation in the mouth or swallowing prostate fluid. Afterwards, I rinsed my mou...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It should not affect the efficacy of the medication. 2. The accuracy is high; as long as you have not engaged in any unsafe behaviors during this period, it should be reliable. 3. The chance of infection is very low. 4. Yes. 5. It falls into the moderate to high-risk ca...[Read More] Understanding PEP: Effectiveness, Testing, and Oral Exposure Risks
Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Counts: When to Seek Further Testing
The white blood cell count report is elevated? Hello Doctor: My blood test reports from last year and this year show a white blood cell count consistently above 11 (elevated). Should I undergo any further tests since my white blood cell count remains high? P.S. The report indicat...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, I would like to know what your earlier report was. Additionally, we will consider other test reports, such as the white blood cell differential count, to make a comprehensive assessment. It is advisable to repeat the blood test in 1-2 weeks. If there is a decrease, it may ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Counts: When to Seek Further Testing
Understanding Arrhythmia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Arrhythmia Hello doctor, for the past three to four days, my heart rate has been above 120 beats per minute, my blood pressure is normal, but I feel a pressure in my head, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and heart pain.
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you visit a cardiologist to confirm the cause of your condition. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Arrhythmia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Does Celecoxib Effectively Lower CRP Levels in Patients?
Can Xeljanz reduce CRP levels? Hello Dr. Gao: I previously asked you a question (number 188046), and the complete inquiry and response are attached below. I would like to ask you another question: 1) Does sulfasalazine not have an effect on lowering CRP? 2) If not, is the reason ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my answers: 1) Does Secukinumab have no effect on lowering CRP? --> Yes, in principle, it has no effect or a poor effect. 2) If not, is the reason the same as why Secukinumab does not lower ESR? --> Yes, the reasons are the same....[Read More] Does Celecoxib Effectively Lower CRP Levels in Patients?
Evaluating Biologics for Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Patient's Dilemma
Should the use of biologic agents be evaluated? Hello, Doctor Gao. My son is 20 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for 3.5 years. It took 1.5 years after the onset of symptoms to confirm the diagnosis and begin formal treatment. The overview of his treat...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Although taking two Salazopyrin and two CellCept daily can effectively manage my child's condition, I am concerned about the potential long-term side effects (such as cardiovascular issues or kidney disease) fro...[Read More] Evaluating Biologics for Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Patient's Dilemma
Understanding High ANA Levels: Impact on Pregnancy and Miscarriage
Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) Hello Doctor, I would like to ask a question. I previously experienced a pregnancy loss due to fetal cardiac arrest. After that, I went to the rheumatology and immunology department for blood tests and found that my ANA (antinuclear antibody) level wa...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. There are many reasons for fetal demise, and immune dysfunction is just one small factor. In cases related to immune dysfunction, it is important to consult with your physician, as there are other tests that can be performed in addition to the ...[Read More] Understanding High ANA Levels: Impact on Pregnancy and Miscarriage
Understanding HIV and STI Risks: Safe Practices and Concerns
Risk of HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Hello doctor, I visited the obstetrics and gynecology department today. Whenever I know an internal examination is needed, I wear disposable underwear. However, today when I threw away the disposable underwear, I accide...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is unlikely to result in contracting HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding HIV and STI Risks: Safe Practices and Concerns
Negative Rapid Test but Positive RPR: Understanding Syphilis Diagnosis
Rapid test negative but RPR positive? Due to having a rash on my body, and aside from that, there are no signs of primary syphilis or rashes on my hands and feet. I saw a doctor this morning who ordered a blood test, and I will wait a week for the results. However, I took an anon...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, let's take a look at what tests were performed in the anonymous screening to understand the negative report results. 2. Additionally, syphilis is generally tested using RPR/VDRL and TPHA/TPPA to clarify the patient's status. It is recommended to seek a nearby ...[Read More] Negative Rapid Test but Positive RPR: Understanding Syphilis Diagnosis