Understanding HIV Testing: Can False Negatives Occur?
Is there a possibility of false negatives in HIV testing? 1. I had protected sexual intercourse on October 5th at 11 PM, and I took an antibody and antigen rapid test on January 4th, which came back negative. Can I rule out the possibility of a positive result? 2. Many hospital...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. After a three-month window period, infection can generally be ruled out; however, this is contingent upon no unsafe sexual practices or sharing of needles during this time. 2. Generally, the timeframe is three to six months; one month refers to the earliest time at which a p...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Can False Negatives Occur?
Understanding Urinary Tract Infections and Persistent Back Pain
Urinary tract infection and subsequent lower back pain follow-up? Hello, I have already gone to a large hospital for examination due to concerns about bacteremia. After blood tests, urinalysis, X-rays, and kidney ultrasounds, the doctor said there were no significant issues. Howe...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if these tests have been done, it will take some time to improve. It is recommended to drink plenty of water and get more rest. However, if you suddenly experience a fever or increased pain later on, you will need to return to a major hospital for a detailed examination. T...[Read More] Understanding Urinary Tract Infections and Persistent Back Pain
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Abdominal issues? Hello, for the past few days, I've been experiencing a slight pain in the abdominal area next to my left side of the navel. It doesn't feel like typical stomach pain or sharp pain; it resembles more of a dull ache similar to back pain. I visited a gast...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, the most likely diagnosis is an abdominal muscle strain, possibly caused by recent exercises similar to sit-ups. Typically, allowing the abdominal muscles to rest will lead to improvement. As for any potential intestinal issues, ultrasound may not revea...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Low Glomerular Filtration Rate: Testing and Insights
Reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR)? I am 28 years old and have had two kidney function tests at the hospital, both showing an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of around 80. In November 2020, my creatinine level was 1.06 with an eGFR of 89.76. In November 2021, my...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Mr. Yang: "Further precise" direct "verification of kidney function" >> I believe it is not as important as -- how to maintain (protect) kidney health (kidney function) >> Indeed, direct testing of kidney function is still not widely availabl...[Read More] Understanding Low Glomerular Filtration Rate: Testing and Insights
High Chromium Levels in Urine: What You Need to Know After Kidney Surgery
Excessive chromium levels in urine? Last year, due to an adrenal tumor, I had my left kidney removed and underwent chemotherapy four times. I am currently taking the immunotherapy drug Endoxan (Cyclophosphamide). Because of my job, I am exposed to potassium dichromate; in the dai...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
It is advisable to consult a toxicologist, as you may need to go to a medical center that has a toxicology department.[Read More] High Chromium Levels in Urine: What You Need to Know After Kidney Surgery
Understanding Syphilis and HIV: Key Questions and Answers for Patients
Syphilis/HIV Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask: 1. What is the typical diameter of syphilis rashes? Are they round or irregularly shaped? Are they independent lesions or do they form a confluent area? Do they appear flat or raised? Are the colors light red or dark red? 2. If one...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Syphilis rashes are usually not itchy or painful, initially appearing as light red spots that can progress to red or dark red, and are typically round in shape. 2. When there are only one or two spots, it can be difficult to distinguish whether they are caused by syp...[Read More] Understanding Syphilis and HIV: Key Questions and Answers for Patients
Understanding Short-Term Joint and Back Pain: When to Consider Medication
Pain in the limbs and back? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing upper back pain, pain in the finger joints and fingertips, pain in the toes, knee pain, and occasional elbow pain for the past 1 to 2 months. This past month, I went to a large hospital for examinations. The docto...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Some young individuals do experience intermittent joint effusion, with symptoms that come and go, often lasting no more than three days. In such cases, we generally first check for any serious rheumatic diseases behind these symptoms, as your p...[Read More] Understanding Short-Term Joint and Back Pain: When to Consider Medication
Is Frequent Yawning a Side Effect of My Medication?
Is frequent yawning a side effect of medication? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis. Over the past two years of medication treatment, I took one Celebrex daily for the first year and a half, and then increased to two Salazopyrin daily for the last six months...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe it is unrelated to the medication, as these drugs rarely have yawning as a side effect. I recommend maintaining a regular schedule, avoiding staying up late, and exercising regularly, which is especially important for ankylosing spond...[Read More] Is Frequent Yawning a Side Effect of My Medication?
Understanding Parasite Risks: Can Outdoor Activities Lead to Infection?
Fear of parasitic diseases? I recently came across many news articles about parasites online, and as a high school freshman, I have a lot of questions and fears regarding them. My current concern is whether there is a chance of encountering parasites on sports fields or grassy ar...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the insects you mentioned in these environments are not considered parasites. Parasites refer to organisms that can infect humans. The smaller parasitic worms are most commonly found in undercooked meats and seafood. As long as food is cooked thoroughly, there is usually n...[Read More] Understanding Parasite Risks: Can Outdoor Activities Lead to Infection?
Should You Seek Medical Attention for a Head Injury After Fainting?
Head injury Fainting in the bathroom can be concerning, especially if it is uncertain whether it was due to weakness from menstruation or from hot water and poor air circulation leading to oxygen deprivation. Since you hit your forehead and near your temple during the fall, and y...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is important to monitor whether the pain persists for more than 48 hours, becomes increasingly severe, or if vomiting occurs. If the symptoms become more pronounced, it is advisable to seek evaluation from a neurosurgeon or visit the emergency department to assess for p...[Read More] Should You Seek Medical Attention for a Head Injury After Fainting?
Understanding Sudden Dizziness: Causes and Concerns in Cold Weather
Occasionally, there is a sensation of dizziness or heaviness? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask why sometimes when the weather is cold, I suddenly feel a sense of dizziness or heaviness for about 1-2 seconds. Although it doesn't feel like spinning or nausea, I initially tho...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, what you mentioned is known as orthostatic hypotension, which commonly occurs with sudden changes in posture or changes in surrounding temperature that cause a temporary drop in blood pressure. This is a physiological response. To improve this condition, it is advisable to...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Dizziness: Causes and Concerns in Cold Weather
Can Low-Frequency Electrotherapy Help Alleviate Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain?
Symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, can low-frequency electrical stimulation therapy improve them? Hello, Doctor. I am a 20-year-old male patient with ankylosing spondylitis. My main issue is pain in the lower back (not reaching the buttocks). Currently, I am taking Celebrex and ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, if the back pain is caused by ankylosing spondylitis, a low-frequency electrotherapy device may be ineffective. However, it might be beneficial for superficial myofascial muscle soreness. You could give it a try. For further use of the low-frequency electrotherapy device, ...[Read More] Can Low-Frequency Electrotherapy Help Alleviate Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain?
Understanding Sandy Sensation in Oral Mucosa: Causes and Solutions
The oral mucosa feels gritty? Hello, doctor. I apologize for bothering you. After I eat, I feel a gritty sensation when I touch the area around the lower left side (near the inner side of the lower teeth) with my tongue. Sometimes, after drinking water, that sensation goes away. ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your photo and description, it appears to be the normal physiological structure of taste buds or gland openings. You only need to seek medical attention if there is significant pain or any discharge. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Sandy Sensation in Oral Mucosa: Causes and Solutions
Should You Worry About Small Bumps Under Your Armpit?
Please ask your question? Hello, today while taking a shower, I suddenly noticed one or two very small bumps near my armpit. I'm worried that they might be something unusual. Could it just be that I'm cold and got goosebumps? However, it also resembles something I have ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description and the images, it appears to be a skin gland, which is a normal physiological structure. There's no need to worry. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Should You Worry About Small Bumps Under Your Armpit?
Understanding Kidney Function: GFR and Creatinine Levels Explained
Kidney examination issues? I would like to ask the doctor: I am 48 years old. I went to the hospital for a blood test, and the results showed a creatinine level of 0.92, with an estimated GFR of 60 (88 is for reference) ml/min/1.73㎡. Is the glomerular filtration rate 88? Is my ki...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: This kidney function report is within the normal range.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function: GFR and Creatinine Levels Explained
Which Test is Best for Detecting Heavy Metal Poisoning: Hair, Blood, or Urine?
To determine if there is heavy metal poisoning, one should check hair, blood, or urine. Which one is appropriate? Hello, doctor. I have frequently been exposed to various strange pigments in the past, which contained heavy metals, but I have not been exposed for a long time. If I...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, different heavy metals have different detection methods, but most can be assessed through blood tests and urine tests to determine their levels.[Read More] Which Test is Best for Detecting Heavy Metal Poisoning: Hair, Blood, or Urine?
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Shared needles Hello doctor, I recently shared a syringe for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the syringe at least an hour after he did. I've seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minute...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used, so it is crucial never to use needles that have been used by others. The so-called rash typically occurs during the secondary stage of syphilis, which happens approximately six weeks to six m...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Shared needles Hello doctor, I recently shared a needle for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the needle at least an hour after he did. I've seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minutes ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used. Therefore, it is crucial not to use needles that have been used by others. The so-called rash is associated with secondary syphilis, which typically occurs approximately six weeks to six mont...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Sharing needles Hello doctor, I recently shared a needle for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the needle at least an hour after he did. I’ve seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minutes to s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used. Even if it’s just for one minute, there is still a risk of infection. Therefore, never use needles that have been used by someone else. The so-called rash is associated with the secondary sta...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Sharing needles Hello Doctor, I recently shared a needle for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the needle at least an hour after he did. I've seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minutes...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used; even if it’s just for one minute, there is still a risk of infection. Therefore, never use needles that have been used by someone else. The so-called rash is associated with the secondary sta...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns