Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: When to See a Urologist?
Lower abdominal tenderness inquiry? Hello Doctor, in the past week, I have experienced localized tenderness in my lower abdomen. Initially, it was located about one centimeter to the right of my navel, but later it appeared about eight centimeters to the left of my navel, while t...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, bladder inflammation typically presents with urinary tract symptoms. Your tenderness may also be related to the abdominal wall muscle layer. It is advisable to observe for two to three days, as it often improves on its own. When visiting a urologist, a urinalysis will like...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: When to See a Urologist?
Risk of Parasite Infection from Snail Contact: What You Should Know
Snail parasites Hello, doctor. This morning, I directly touched a small snail on my motorcycle handle. After realizing it was a snail, I used a wet cloth to remove it. At that moment, there was no water source nearby, so I rode for about 30 minutes to my destination before using ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, there is usually not much risk involved. Eating raw snails is typically riskier because parasites are found inside the snails rather than on their surface. Therefore, touching snails is unlikely to expose you to parasites.[Read More] Risk of Parasite Infection from Snail Contact: What You Should Know
Understanding Skin Reactions and Infection Risks: Common Concerns
Please ask your question? Hello, doctor. I have two questions I'd like to ask. The first one is that a few days ago, the outer side of my thigh felt itchy and looked like it was bitten by an insect, with a little swelling. I didn't pay much attention to it and didn'...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, it's difficult to determine the exact condition just from the pictures, but insect bites combined with scratching can indeed lead to similar wounds. Lyme disease is almost non-existent in Taiwan, and most cases are contracted while traveling to Europe or America. The ...[Read More] Understanding Skin Reactions and Infection Risks: Common Concerns
Can You Contract STDs from Kissing After a Lip Injury?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) transmission Hello Doctor, I recently engaged the services of a foreign sex worker and used a condom throughout the entire process. During the encounter, I was asked for a wet kiss. However, due to a lack of sleep in the past few days, I hav...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are commonly found in the perineal area, with another frequent site being the oral cavity. Engaging in oral sex without proper protection, such as a condom, can certainly increase the risk of acquiring STIs. 2. In addition to commo...[Read More] Can You Contract STDs from Kissing After a Lip Injury?
Managing Thyroid Medication: From Hyperthyroidism to Hypothyroidism Concerns
The treatment for hyperthyroidism has been reduced, but the medication is still being taken? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing a rapid heartbeat, and blood tests revealed hyperthyroidism with TSH < 0.005 and Free T4 > 7.7. The doctor prescribed: for the first and secon...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
During the treatment process for hyperthyroidism, fluctuations may occur. Please ensure regular blood tests are conducted to facilitate dosage adjustments. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Managing Thyroid Medication: From Hyperthyroidism to Hypothyroidism Concerns
Understanding Blood Sugar Fluctuations: Insights from Continuous Glucose Monitoring
I have some questions regarding the use of continuous glucose monitoring devices? Hello Doctor, I am 42 years old. Last August, my health check revealed a fasting blood glucose level of 115 mg/dL and a hemoglobin A1c of 5.8%. Since then, my fasting blood glucose has remained elev...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, your question falls within the specialty of endocrinology, and the physician may need to ask you additional questions related to your diet and exercise in order to have a discussion. Therefore, it is recommended that you visit the hospital to consult with the endocrinology...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Fluctuations: Insights from Continuous Glucose Monitoring
Can X-rays or CT Scans Differentiate Causes of Sacroiliitis?
Can X-rays or CT scans differentiate the causes of sacroiliac joint arthritis? What are the treatment options for enthesitis? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing chronic lower back pain that alleviates with activity. X-rays from last year show bilateral grade II sacroiliitis, ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: (1) I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pain in my right ankle since last year, as if it is being bitten, with the pain intensifying at night. Additionally, I have long-term soreness on the outer side of my right...[Read More] Can X-rays or CT Scans Differentiate Causes of Sacroiliitis?
Managing Lupus: Weight Loss, Muscle Cramps, and Tattoo Safety
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) Hello Doctor: 1. I am a patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). I would like to ask if it is normal for me to feel very hungry and eat four to five meals a day, despite having a light diet, while still losing weight after being diagnos...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I am an SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) patient. I would like to ask if it is normal for me to feel very hungry and eat four to five meals a day, even though I have been eating a light diet and have been on medica...[Read More] Managing Lupus: Weight Loss, Muscle Cramps, and Tattoo Safety
Managing Autoimmune Disorders: Concerns About Long-Term Medication Use
Autoimmune disease issues Hello, doctor. I am a patient with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and have been taking thyroid medication for over 30 years. In recent years, I have been troubled by dry eye syndrome, which has affected my daily life. I underwent blood tests for rheumatic ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Pilocarpine is a medication commonly used by patients with Sjögren's syndrome. If you have dry eyes, normal blood test results, and a good response to eye drops or ointments, along with experiencing side effects from the medication, it may...[Read More] Managing Autoimmune Disorders: Concerns About Long-Term Medication Use
Impact of Thirdhand Smoke on Hyperthyroidism: Concerns and Insights
Hyperthyroidism issues? Hello, Doctor. I have hyperthyroidism and have been undergoing treatment for about 6 years. Currently, my treatment involves taking one Methimazole (5 mg) tablet every night before bed. I would like to ask you about a situation regarding my rental housing....
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
There are no clear reports on the effects of thirdhand smoke on thyroid function. Please cooperate with your outpatient physician and undergo regular blood tests for monitoring. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Impact of Thirdhand Smoke on Hyperthyroidism: Concerns and Insights
Understanding Weight Changes After Knee Surgery: What to Know
Weight issues Hello Doctor, my mother is about 60 years old and had knee replacement surgery earlier this year. She is currently recovering well and can climb stairs. The only medication she is taking now is one pill in the morning and one in the evening for blood pressure and he...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If you are unsure about how to exercise appropriately, you can consult a rehabilitation specialist for therapy to prevent muscle atrophy. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Weight Changes After Knee Surgery: What to Know
Can You Get Infected from Contact with Family Member's Blood?
Regarding contact with another person's blood? Hello Dr. Lin, my family member needs to check their blood sugar, but they cannot operate the device and cannot see, so I assist them. Today, my family member bled more than usual, and when I was about to discard the test strip,...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, there are many diseases that can be transmitted through exposure to blood and bodily fluids. The ones that are usually of particular concern are HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. It would be advisable to first check if any of your family members have a history o...[Read More] Can You Get Infected from Contact with Family Member's Blood?
Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Raw Fish Delivery
Sashimi rice bowl delivered on a hot summer day? Hello Doctor, due to my internship, I am currently in Shanghai. On May 17, 2024, during a hot day, I had delivery of chopped sashimi, which included fresh Norwegian salmon, Arctic sweet shrimp, and Arctic surf clams. In the afterno...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, leaving raw food at higher temperatures significantly increases the risk of bacterial growth, which can lead to gastroenteritis. In contrast, the relationship between parasites and temperature is minimal (if food contains parasites, they do not proliferate within the food)...[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Raw Fish Delivery
Understanding Fecal-Oral Infections: Parasites and Pathogenic Bacteria
Fecal-oral transmission of parasites or pathogenic bacteria? Hello Dr. Lin, I previously inquired about chronic diarrhea and suspect that it may be due to a parasitic or pathogenic bacterial infection from an incident over three years ago when I accidentally ingested toilet water...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. There are many bacteria, predominantly Escherichia coli. 2. Parasites are typically present in individuals who have been recently infected; thus, the water in the toilet may contain parasites only if someone with a parasitic infection has used it (parasites cannot survive long...[Read More] Understanding Fecal-Oral Infections: Parasites and Pathogenic Bacteria
Understanding Mild Mitral Valve Prolapse and Heart Failure Symptoms
Suspected heart failure with mitral valve issues? Hello Doctor, thank you for your response. To provide some background, last year I experienced several months of sleep deprivation. I usually do not drink alcohol, but one night while out with friends, I was forced to drink a cock...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: MVP is a common condition characterized by the prolapse of one or both leaflets of the mitral valve into the left atrium during systole due to mitral valve insufficiency. The pathological mechanism is not fully understood. Pro-BNP testing can assist in the diagnosis of con...[Read More] Understanding Mild Mitral Valve Prolapse and Heart Failure Symptoms
Understanding ESR and IgG Fluctuations in Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
After one year of treatment with the biological agent Revlimid (lenalidomide), EXR71? Hello, I would like to ask about a personal case of ankylosing spondylitis. I was diagnosed at the age of 10, and I am now 28 years old. I have been taking Celebrex and Methotrexate. In 2023, I ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The reasons for the increase in ESR and IgG after administering targeted therapy should be investigated, including the possibility of new inflammation or infection, or even changes in rheumatic disease. These factors involve the overall conditi...[Read More] Understanding ESR and IgG Fluctuations in Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Onset Occur After Age 50?
Is it possible for ankylosing spondylitis to develop at the age of 50? I am a 51-year-old female who has been experiencing significant tightness and stiffness in my hip joint for at least three years. I initially thought it was due to natural aging, prolonged sitting at work, or ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: (1) Is it possible for ankylosing spondylitis to onset at the age of 50? --> The likelihood is low, but it is possible. (2) If both CRP and ESR are normal, does that mean it is unrelated to ankylosing spondylitis? --&...[Read More] Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Onset Occur After Age 50?
Can Short-Term High Protein Diet Raise Cholesterol Levels?
High cholesterol Hello Doctor, I had a health check in early December, and my cholesterol was 200 with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) around 55. Recently, in early April, my test results showed cholesterol at 244 with HDL around 75. My body fat and weight have not changed. I woul...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Cholesterol levels can be influenced by diet, which may include short-term high-fat diets.[Read More] Can Short-Term High Protein Diet Raise Cholesterol Levels?
Concerns About Infection Risks from Hotel Showerheads in Taiwan
Infection issues Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask about an incident that happened while I was at a hotel in Taiwan with my family. I adjusted the showerhead and pressed on the area where the water sprays out. At that moment, I felt a sharp pain, but later I checked my finger an...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, if there is no obvious bleeding or wound on the finger, there is basically little chance of transmitting any infectious disease. Please don't worry.[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks from Hotel Showerheads in Taiwan
Concerns About HIV Infection from Contaminated Hair Removal Cream
HIV infection Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you some questions related to HIV. If you can help me with my concerns, I would greatly appreciate it. I purchased a depilatory cream online, and when I picked it up and opened it, I didn't pay special attention to whether it ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, according to the data from the Centers for Disease Control, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluids carries a ...[Read More] Concerns About HIV Infection from Contaminated Hair Removal Cream