Understanding HIV Antibody Testing: Your Concerns Addressed
HIV Antibody Testing Issues Hello Doctor, I apologize if I am repeating a question as I forgot whether I successfully asked it last time! I had unprotected sexual intercourse in June of last year, and a month later I took a rapid blood test which was negative. In January of this ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. If it has been more than six months, the possibility of HIV can be ruled out. 2. If you are still concerned, you can visit a nearby medical facility for further consultation and testing.[Read More] Understanding HIV Antibody Testing: Your Concerns Addressed
Understanding Syphilis Infection: Key Questions and Insights for Patients
Issues related to syphilis infection? Hello Doctor, I was recently screened and found to have a syphilis infection (I have never been infected before). I usually do rapid tests, and my last rapid test was negative over six months ago. Since then, I have not experienced any sympto...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, you need to confirm whether it is a first-time infection, and if treatment was received within a year, only then is it possible to achieve a dual negative result, i.e., RPR/TPHA (-/-); otherwise, it often remains positive. 2. The level of the index indicates the strength o...[Read More] Understanding Syphilis Infection: Key Questions and Insights for Patients
Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Linked to Autoimmune Diseases?
Is dry eye syndrome related to autoimmune diseases? The symptoms of dry eye syndrome have persisted for more than a year, and recently, the symptoms of dry mouth have become increasingly noticeable. I went to the hospital for an examination, and the only abnormal result was an AN...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. You may want to collaborate with an ophthalmologist to see if treatment for your eyes improves your symptoms of dry mouth and dry tongue; if so, you might be able to discontinue the medication. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Departmen...[Read More] Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Linked to Autoimmune Diseases?
Understanding Tetanus Risk After a Rusty Cut: What You Need to Know
Abrasion Last Thursday night, I accidentally scraped my little finger with a rusty paint scraper, causing a small cut that bled a little. I immediately disinfected it with iodine and applied antibiotic ointment. Here are the pictures from the day of the injury: [link1](https://dr...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the symptoms of tetanus primarily present as neurological symptoms. If the tetanus vaccine is administered in a timely manner, the chances of contracting tetanus are very low. Overall, it appears that the wound and symptoms have improved, so there should be no cause for co...[Read More] Understanding Tetanus Risk After a Rusty Cut: What You Need to Know
Understanding HIV Testing: Can I Trust My Negative Results?
HIV testing issues Hello Doctor: I engaged in high-risk behavior on October 16. On April 1 of the following year, I used the Orasure saliva rapid test, which was negative. Then, on April 25, I conducted the Bayer blood rapid test, which was also negative. During this period, I di...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, generally speaking, a period of six months has surpassed the window period for HIV, so if one is infected, it is usually detectable. However, all tests carry the possibility of false negatives, especially rapid tests, which have a slightly higher chance of false negatives ...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Can I Trust My Negative Results?
Understanding Recurrent Infections: Causes and When to Seek Help
Recurrent inflammatory colds? Hello, doctor. In the past month, I have been experiencing recurrent episodes of fever and inflammation. The first instance was a sudden acute fever, which did not show significant signs of subsiding after two days. After visiting my family physician...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Your situation is relatively complex, and it is recommended that you visit the Infectious Disease outpatient clinic for evaluation. Additionally, if you experience any changes in hearing, it is advisable to see an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist to rule out more obv...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Infections: Causes and When to Seek Help
Can Antibody Rapid Tests Completely Rule Out HIV Infection?
Can antibody rapid tests completely avoid infections? In June of last year, I had a risky sexual encounter, and more than a month later, I took a blood rapid test (Kenvair) which was negative. Then in December of last year, due to my concerns, I took the OraQuick HIV Self-Test, a...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. If the window period has exceeded 3 to 6 months, you can be reassured. 2. If there are still other concerns, you may consult and get tested at a nearby medical facility.[Read More] Can Antibody Rapid Tests Completely Rule Out HIV Infection?
Understanding RA Factor Changes and Related Health Concerns
Rheumatoid Arthritis - Inquiry about Rheumatoid Factor and Other Related Data? Hello, Doctor Gao. I apologize for the lengthy message. Here are my health examination data from three tests conducted at the same laboratory: - Date: 2023/11/11, 2024/6/15, (2024/4/30) - ALT/SGPT (L...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. I underwent tests related to immune system diseases at a regional hospital in December 2023, and my rheumatoid arthritis (RA) factor was less than 5 at that time. Additionally, the measurement taken on April 30, 2024,...[Read More] Understanding RA Factor Changes and Related Health Concerns
Do You Need a Tetanus Shot After a Rusty Nail Injury?
Is it necessary to get a tetanus shot? Yesterday, on June 14th, I was punctured on the inner side of my foot by a rusty metal object while outside my home. At the time, it didn't penetrate completely; I felt something poke my foot and immediately moved away. There was a smal...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. According to the literature, even if the wound is clean or very minor, if you have never received a tetanus vaccine before or if it has been more than 10 years since your last vaccination, it is advisable to get vaccinated. There is no data avai...[Read More] Do You Need a Tetanus Shot After a Rusty Nail Injury?
Risk of Bloodborne Infection During Routine Blood Draws in Pregnancy
Blood infection During a prenatal check-up, blood was drawn, and immediately after the previous pregnant woman had her blood drawn, I was called to sit down. As I sat down, I noticed an alcohol swab on the table that was contaminated with blood from the previous patient. The nurs...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. The HIV virus dies within ten minutes after leaving the human body, and its survival rate is even lower in the presence of alcohol-based disinfectants. 2. The primary viruses that can be transmitted through needles are Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV; however, transmission...[Read More] Risk of Bloodborne Infection During Routine Blood Draws in Pregnancy
Understanding Your Echocardiogram Report: Key Insights and Next Steps
Echocardiogram Report Doctor: I apologize, as I have recently been experiencing frequent weakness in my heart. The results of the echocardiogram report are as follows: Doppler LV IVRT(H)(91.2 msec) (70-90) M-Mode RVDd () (5-21) RWT (0.51 mm) MV E-F slope(L)(61.1 mm/s) (80-150) A ...
Dr. Yu Liying Reply:
The report indicates that the size of the cardiac chambers is normal, the overall systolic function of the left ventricle is normal, and the diastolic function of the left ventricle is normal, with mild tricuspid regurgitation. It is recommended to continue monitoring for changes...[Read More] Understanding Your Echocardiogram Report: Key Insights and Next Steps
Understanding Your Exercise ECG Report: Key Insights for Patients
Please have the physician assist in reviewing the exercise electrocardiogram report? Please assist in reviewing whether the exercise electrocardiogram report is normal. Thank you very much! Order Date: June 1, 2024 Examination Date: June 7, 2024 Conclusions: 1) Target he...
Dr. Yu Liying Reply:
The exercise electrocardiogram report indicates that cardiac function is good under high-intensity exercise, with no significant signs of ischemic heart disease. However, non-specific ST-T changes and premature atrial contractions (PACs) were noted during the exercise, and furthe...[Read More] Understanding Your Exercise ECG Report: Key Insights for Patients
Does Methisoprinol Affect the Accuracy of HIV PCR Testing?
Does Methisoprinol affect HIV PCR testing? Hello doctor, I had unprotected sexual intercourse last April. I underwent an HIV antibody rapid test in April, another one in May, and a third one in November after being diagnosed with HPV, all of which were negative. These tests were ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
METHISOPRINOL acts as an immunomodulator and may affect antiviral medications containing zidovudine; however, it is not expected to impact the accuracy of HIV testing.[Read More] Does Methisoprinol Affect the Accuracy of HIV PCR Testing?
Understanding Oral Ulcers: Causes, Treatment, and Risks of Transmission
Oral ulcer Hello, I have a few questions for the doctor. 1. I have been experiencing recurrent oral ulcers for 2 to 3 years. I have undergone blood tests at a major hospital, and everything came back normal. I have been taking colchicine, 2 tablets a day, which has improved my ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. I have been experiencing recurrent oral ulcers for 2 to 3 years. Blood tests at a major hospital showed no issues. Taking colchicine, 2 tablets a day, has improved my symptoms, but they recur after reducing the dosage...[Read More] Understanding Oral Ulcers: Causes, Treatment, and Risks of Transmission
Sudden Rapid Heartbeat During Sleep: Causes and When to Seek Help
Waking up in the middle of the night with a sudden rapid heartbeat? Recently, I have been experiencing episodes during sleep where I feel my heart racing, and I am unable to wake up, accompanied by a sensation of being pressed down by a ghost. Each time, I have to take deep breat...
Dr. Yu Liying Reply:
Hello: This situation may be related to excessive cardiac excitability at night, such as nighttime arrhythmias, anxiety, or panic attacks. It is recommended to try relaxation techniques to reduce nighttime anxiety and stress. Additionally, avoid consuming caffeinated beverages or...[Read More] Sudden Rapid Heartbeat During Sleep: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding HIV Testing: Risks and Results Explained
HIV testing issues? If a person has not engaged in any high-risk behaviors for a month, consistently used condoms, and the sexual partner is a girlfriend, and the Multiplex NAT test results from blood donation are negative, can it be confirmed that there is no HIV infection? Addi...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, it is important to determine whether you are an HIV-positive individual. If so, are you adhering to your medication regimen and keeping your viral load at an undetectable level? 2. Next, if you are not infected but have a history of sexually transmitted infections (STI...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Risks and Results Explained
Understanding Juvenile Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms of juvenile ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor: My son is 14 years old (in the second year of junior high school). Three months ago, he experienced unexplained swelling in the second joint of his toe, with no other discomfort. At that time, the doctor ordered blood tes...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my thoughts: 1. We will not retest for HLA-B27. 2. If the inflammatory markers are normal (such as CRP and ESR), and there is only swelling in the toes without other symptoms, we might consider using anti-inflammatory pain relief medic...[Read More] Understanding Juvenile Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms and Diagnosis
Can Palatal Expanders Alleviate Nasal and Eye Allergy Symptoms?
Can the installation of a maxillary expander improve symptoms of nasal and ocular allergies? Hello, Doctor Zeng. I am currently 21 years old and was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis at the age of 17. Additionally, I have experienced allergic rhinitis with symptoms such as a ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
There is no evidence to suggest that the use of a maxillary expander can improve symptoms of nasal and ocular allergies. It is recommended to consult with a dentist or an otolaryngologist for further advice. I apologize for any shortcomings in my knowledge. Thank you for your que...[Read More] Can Palatal Expanders Alleviate Nasal and Eye Allergy Symptoms?
Concerns About Undercooked Pork Chops: Parasite Risks and Medical Guidance
Eating undercooked pork chop? On the evening of May 20, I ate an air-fried frozen pork chop. Halfway through, I noticed that the meat was tough to chew and had a slightly raw color. The pork chop was a frozen product that I had purchased only two or three days ago. Is there a pos...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
It is highly recommended to consult an infectious disease specialist. Consuming contaminated or undercooked food can lead to infections or food poisoning. Thank you.[Read More] Concerns About Undercooked Pork Chops: Parasite Risks and Medical Guidance
Understanding Autoimmune Hepatitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Autoimmune hepatitis Hello Doctor: At the end of March this year, I sought consultation in the hepatobiliary and gastroenterology department due to fatigue, jaundice, and tea-colored urine. Blood tests showed AST 675, ALT 1077, and total bilirubin 4.6. Subsequent tests for HBsAg ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
It is highly recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible, preferably by returning to your original treating physician's clinic. If the appointments are fully booked, you should be able to request an additional slot with your original doctor. To determine the si...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Hepatitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns