Understanding Infection Risks: HIV Exposure and Safety Precautions
Infection issues Hello doctor, a few days ago I asked you some questions: 1. You mentioned that the chance of infection from being splashed with blood containing the HIV virus in the eyes, nose, or mouth with an open wound is low. Does this mean that if I accidentally get splashe...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. On one hand, the infectiousness through this route is low, and on the other hand, the immune system can clear it. 2. It will not. 3. This will not cause an infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Infection Risks: HIV Exposure and Safety Precautions
Understanding Hormonal Imbalance: When to See a Specialist
Endocrine disorder Hello, Doctor: I visited the obstetrics and gynecology department in April and was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Due to not having my period for several months, the doctor prescribed Norethindrone 5.705 mg to be taken twice daily for 14 days....
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: You can first consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist. Inform them of your condition completely, and then ask if you need to see any other specialists.[Read More] Understanding Hormonal Imbalance: When to See a Specialist
Should I Stop Taking Salazopyrine After Testing Positive for COVID-19?
If diagnosed with COVID-19, should Salmeterol be discontinued? Hello Doctor: I am a 20-year-old patient with ankylosing spondylitis. Currently, I take two tablets of Salazopyrin daily (without taking anti-inflammatory medication) to manage my condition. I was diagnosed with COVID...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Salazopyrin is an immunomodulator, which is different from immunosuppressants. It only suppresses the body's immune response but does not inhibit the immune response to foreign viruses, so it does not lower the ...[Read More] Should I Stop Taking Salazopyrine After Testing Positive for COVID-19?
Positive Rapid Test on Day 10: Understanding COVID-19 Recovery and Risks
Ten days after diagnosis, the rapid test is still positive? Hello Doctor, I am 20 years old and today marks the 10th day since my diagnosis. I still test positive on the rapid test (the test line is faint, not as dark as when I was first diagnosed). On the first day of my diagnos...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. A positive result still indicates that viral proteins remain in the body, which does not necessarily mean that the immune system is weak or that there is a high viral load; some individuals may naturally retain certain viral proteins. 2. The presence of a positive re...[Read More] Positive Rapid Test on Day 10: Understanding COVID-19 Recovery and Risks
Understanding Anemia in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Causes and Insights
Ankylosing Spondylitis Anemia Hello doctor, I have ankylosing spondylitis and recently had blood tests that showed some abnormal results: WBC: 7.15 (3.6-11.2) normal, RBC: 3.87 (4.5-5.7) abnormal, HB: 12.5 (13.7-17) abnormal, HCT: 37.0 (40.5-50) abnormal, MCV: 95.6 (80-100) norma...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If ankylosing spondylitis is poorly controlled, it may lead to anemia. Your inflammatory markers are normal, indicating that your ankylosing spondylitis is relatively stable, and the anemia may not be caused by a rheumatic disease. I recommend t...[Read More] Understanding Anemia in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Causes and Insights
Understanding Steroid Dosage and Side Effects in Myositis Treatment
Steroid dosage usage Hello Dr. Gao, my mother is 68 years old. She was diagnosed with COVID-19 in May of this year. During the infection, she did not experience any severe symptoms. However, one month after testing negative, she developed unexplained muscle pain in both legs, whi...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Steroids can be taken on an alternating schedule, which is a method we use to gradually taper the dosage when there isn't a lower dose formulation available for adjustment. Steroids may cause edema and can also affect sleep, so it is advis...[Read More] Understanding Steroid Dosage and Side Effects in Myositis Treatment
Understanding Groin Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Groin issues Hello Doctor: Initially, I noticed a round, hard lump near my anus (I consulted a colorectal specialist because I was concerned it might be an anal fistula, and there was significant swelling from the groin area towards the perineum, which I suspected might be lympha...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the lump next to the anus is likely a benign cyst. If the doctor has already incised it, it should gradually heal and reduce in size over time. As for the vaginitis and urethral discharge, they are likely not directly related to this issue. If yo...[Read More] Understanding Groin Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding High Creatinine and Uric Acid Levels in Young Adults
Elevated creatinine levels? Hello doctor, I am currently 18 years old, 170 cm tall, and weigh 47 kg. During a health check-up, I found that my creatinine level is elevated (1.45) and my uric acid level is also high (9.2). Additionally, protein was detected in my urine. Is my kidn...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Based on your body type, it appears that you do not have a physique characterized by high muscle mass. The elevated creatinine levels suggest a need for further evaluation at a clinic. Wishing you health and safety.[Read More] Understanding High Creatinine and Uric Acid Levels in Young Adults
Is Ankylosing Spondylitis a Severe Risk Factor for COVID-19?
Is ankylosing spondylitis a risk factor for severe disease? Hello Doctor, my son is 19 years old and has ankylosing spondylitis. I have some questions to ask you. 1) There are many risk factors for severe COVID-19, one of which is "diseases affecting immune function (such ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) There are many risk factors for severe COVID-19, one of which is "diseases affecting immune function (HIV infection, congenital immunodeficiency, solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, use of ste...[Read More] Is Ankylosing Spondylitis a Severe Risk Factor for COVID-19?
Post-COVID Treatment: Should You Take Antiviral Medications?
How to use medication after being diagnosed with COVID-19? Hello Doctor: I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, 22 years old, and I have had this condition for over two years. Currently, I am managing my condition with Salazopyrin. Yesterday, a general clinic (not a rheumato...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The use of Isalor tablets for managing ankylosing spondylitis is indeed related to an abnormal immune function, which is why your physician has prescribed Belaviv. Currently, this medication has not yet received market approval, and if there ar...[Read More] Post-COVID Treatment: Should You Take Antiviral Medications?
Understanding C3 and C4 Levels: What to Do When Symptoms Persist?
Complement C3 & C4 Every morning when I wake up, my hands are swollen and stiff, and I experience pain in the joints when bending my fingers. Blood tests showed an erythrocyte sedimentation rate of 16, rheumatoid arthritis factor tests (immunoturbidimetry) were less than 20, ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Your C3 level is slightly low, but this may just be a variation due to your constitution, so there is no need to worry too much. Other tests are normal. I believe that if your morning stiffness lasts for a short duration, such as less than half ...[Read More] Understanding C3 and C4 Levels: What to Do When Symptoms Persist?
Could Your Red Rash Be Lupus? Understanding Symptoms and Allergies
Could a painless and non-itchy rash be indicative of lupus erythematosus? On October 1st, upon waking up in the morning, I noticed several small red rashes on my abdomen and arms (originally raised). Within a few hours, they flattened out, but the color remained reddish. There we...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. It sounds like urticaria, but it does not resemble lupus erythematosus. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.[Read More] Could Your Red Rash Be Lupus? Understanding Symptoms and Allergies
Impact of Frequent Masturbation on Middle School Boys' Brain Health
The effects of masturbation on the brain in adolescent boys? Hello, doctor. Can you please tell me if frequent masturbation in middle school students can damage the brain or affect memory? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Hello, 1. Will it affect brain development? No. Generally, masturbation can be seen as a way for individuals to relieve sexual urges or stress. Conversely, if one suppresses masturbation, it may lead to self-doubt or negatively impact others in the pursuit of sexual outlets, wh...[Read More] Impact of Frequent Masturbation on Middle School Boys' Brain Health
Understanding Dizziness: Possible Causes Beyond Viral Infections
Dizziness, feeling of heaviness in the head, and lightness in the legs? Hello, doctor. I've been feeling a bit dizzy these past few days. It's not severe, and I feel dizzy whether I'm standing or sitting, but I don't feel anything when lying down. I visited a ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, there are indeed many factors that can cause dizziness. Based on your situation, the following possible factors may apply: 1. Staying up late or irregular sleep patterns 2. Excessive stress 3. Anemia 4. Side effects of cold medications 5. Inner ear imbalance. It is recomme...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness: Possible Causes Beyond Viral Infections
Understanding Asthma: Managing Persistent Cough and Heart Concerns
Asthma issues I would like to ask the doctor a few questions. Since last winter, I have been coughing persistently. I have visited many clinics, and the doctors have said it is due to allergies caused by changes in the weather, and that it would improve as the weather warms up. I...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, chronic cough can indeed have many causes. The most important thing is to rule out lung and heart issues. If auscultation is normal, the chances of severe asthma are lower, but there may be other lung problems. It is advisable to consult a pulmonology or family medicine ou...[Read More] Understanding Asthma: Managing Persistent Cough and Heart Concerns
Are Home Rapid Tests Reliable? Understanding Infection Risks After a Year
Rapid testing for infection issues? I would like to ask if the rapid tests sold online by the health department are accurate. I buy a rapid test almost every month and have been testing for a year now. My last test was two days ago, and it was negative. I would like to know if I ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, are you referring to HIV rapid testing? The accuracy of HIV rapid tests for initial assessment is indeed not as high as that of formal tests conducted in medical institutions. Each rapid test kit may also have varying degrees of accuracy. If you want to confirm your result...[Read More] Are Home Rapid Tests Reliable? Understanding Infection Risks After a Year
Needle Stick Injury: Risks of Bloodborne Infections and Testing Options
Needle-related issues Dear Dr. Hong, I am a nurse at a hospital, and a few days ago, I accidentally experienced a needle stick injury while on the intensive care unit. I have already followed the protocol for screening for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. However, I am still very...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the conditions you mentioned are mostly sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and are not transmitted through needle stick injuries. The primary diseases associated with needle stick injuries are HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and C. It is recommended to follow the needle...[Read More] Needle Stick Injury: Risks of Bloodborne Infections and Testing Options
Understanding Blood Test Results and Ear Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Please consult the doctor regarding blood draw and related issues? I apologize for the interruption. I was diagnosed about 3-4 months ago, and sometimes I feel like I have some lingering symptoms, so I thought I should get a check-up. Last week, I made an appointment with a famil...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding the lymphocyte count, as your physician mentioned, it is true that various conditions can cause fluctuations in individual values. Your results are within the normal range, so there is no need to worry. As for the outer part of your ear, based on your description...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results and Ear Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Concerns About Infection After Blood Test and Allergic Reaction
Hello, I would like to inquire about infection issues? On the morning of September 3rd, around 10 AM, I had a blood test for a gynecological check-up. In the afternoon, I noticed itching on the back of my hand. I went to the pharmacy, explained the situation, and bought an ointme...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
A. According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infec...[Read More] Concerns About Infection After Blood Test and Allergic Reaction
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Your Questions Answered
HIV issues I would like to ask the doctor, when I went to the restroom in the dormitory at night to change my sanitary pad, I found blood on the floor afterward. I'm not sure if it was mine. Then I used a piece of toilet paper from the trash can to wipe it up, but I forgot i...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
A. According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infecte...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Your Questions Answered