Understanding the Implications of Thyroid Disorders in Medical Diagnoses
The diagnosis of "thyroid disorders" signifies a range of medical conditions that affect the thyroid gland, which is responsible for regulating metabolism, growth, and development through the production of hormones. These disorders can include hypothyroidism, hyperthyro...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. "Thyroid disorders" were hypothesized based on the symptoms you presented during your initial consultation, which is why a thyroid function test was arranged. If the thyroid function is normal, there will be no diagnosis of hyperthyroi...[Read More] Understanding the Implications of Thyroid Disorders in Medical Diagnoses
Hip and Thigh Muscle Pain: Understanding Post-Hospitalization Discomfort
Hip bone pain, soreness in the outer thigh muscles, and leg twitching when falling asleep? Last Sunday, I was hospitalized due to lower abdominal pain, which was diagnosed as mild appendicitis. I received antibiotic treatment through an IV, and after that, I no longer experienced...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If you are experiencing pain or cramping at night that interferes with your sleep, it is advisable to schedule an earlier follow-up appointment with your attending physician for evaluation. Some differential diagnoses require a physical examinat...[Read More] Hip and Thigh Muscle Pain: Understanding Post-Hospitalization Discomfort
Understanding Sudden Decrease in Complement C3 Levels: What to Do?
Decreased complement C3? Last year on October 21, a complement C3 test was performed in the emergency department, with a value of 104.4, C4 at 21.7, and an ANA titer of 1:80, which was negative. Four days later, on October 25, the C3 value was 85.4 and C4 was 19.5. This year, on ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Complement proteins C3 and C4 are produced by the liver, and the liver tends to produce more complement in response to various bodily stresses, which is why complement levels often rise. A decrease in complement levels is often associated with ...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Decrease in Complement C3 Levels: What to Do?
Can You Contract HIV from Masturbation After Contact with Infected Fluids?
Masturbation-related infection If a person has contact with the blood or semen of an HIV-infected individual on their hands, does not wash their hands, and then engages in masturbation with broken skin on their genitals, is there a risk of HIV infection?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, 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 poses...[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from Masturbation After Contact with Infected Fluids?
Can You Get HIV from Touching with Lubricated Hands?
Will this lead to an HIV infection? I touched the inside of a girl's vagina with my hand that had lubricant on it, and then immediately touched my own glans. I am not circumcised, and I was wearing a condom the entire time. Is there a risk of transmitting HIV in this situati...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are three main routes of transmission for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual or ...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Touching with Lubricated Hands?
Persistent Low-Grade Fever: Symptoms, Concerns, and Next Steps
Persistent low-grade fever Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing recurrent low-grade fevers since last Friday afternoon, and it has now been a week with no improvement. I visited a clinic where the doctor prescribed Tamiflu, but it has not been effective. My symptoms include per...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
It is recommended that you go to the infectious disease department for further blood tests. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Persistent Low-Grade Fever: Symptoms, Concerns, and Next Steps
Understanding Right Groin Lymphadenopathy: Causes and Next Steps
Right inguinal lymphadenopathy? Hello, doctor. For the past month, I have been experiencing a feeling of heaviness and discomfort in my groin and lower right abdomen, accompanied by lower back pain. I can feel small lymph nodes on the inner side of my right thigh. Three weeks ago...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
You can go for an outpatient evaluation and examination.[Read More] Understanding Right Groin Lymphadenopathy: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Systemic Pain and Allergic Reactions: When to See a Doctor
Generalized tingling, itching, and numbness? Hello Director Gao: I am following up on my inquiry from January 15 regarding my symptoms of generalized itching, tingling, itchy eyes, itchy ears, fungal patches, difficulty concentrating, memory decline, forgetfulness, headaches, che...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Brittle nails are often a result of nutritional deficiencies, and this can be evaluated by a dermatologist. If your primary care physician is unable to address your concerns, and you are also experiencing anxiety related to allergy symptoms, you...[Read More] Understanding Systemic Pain and Allergic Reactions: When to See a Doctor
Understanding Hantavirus and Leptospirosis Infection Risks in Household Settings
Risk of Hantavirus and Leptospirosis Infection Hello Dr. Lin, Yesterday, I went to my elder's house and was about to take a shower when my elder accidentally spilled a cup of water. In a hurry, I grabbed a cloth to wipe the floor. While wiping, I noticed yellow and black st...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. There is no precise data, but viruses typically do not survive outside the body for more than a few days, so there is definitely no risk of transmission after six months. 2. No, because the virus cannot survive that long after six months. 3. Based on the scenario you describ...[Read More] Understanding Hantavirus and Leptospirosis Infection Risks in Household Settings
Understanding Systemic Pain and Itching: A Comprehensive Guide
Generalized tingling, itching, and numbness? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing sneezing, runny nose, and constipation for the past year. I consulted a gastroenterologist and underwent a colonoscopy and endoscopy, which revealed colon polyps, gastric polyps, and gastroesophag...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I recommend starting with a visit to a family medicine physician. Since you are experiencing some allergy symptoms, if you are truly concerned about potential issues with your immune function, you may also consider seeing an allergist or immunol...[Read More] Understanding Systemic Pain and Itching: A Comprehensive Guide
Concerns About Mixing Medications: Understanding Drug Interactions
Medication issues Hello, doctor. I went to see a pediatrician because I have been experiencing a runny nose. The doctor prescribed me a syrup to take before bed when my nasal discharge is heavy, called Tongbi Kang capsules (they are light blue-green and white in color). I just to...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello. Thank you for your question. Tongbikang capsules are a compound antihistamine, and some of the ingredients may cause dry mouth as a side effect. Dry mouth can affect taste perception, which may be the reason for the change in your taste. As long as you discontinue use, thi...[Read More] Concerns About Mixing Medications: Understanding Drug Interactions
Understanding Genetic Risks and Diagnosis of Polycystic Kidney Disease
Diagnosis and Genetics of Polycystic Kidney Disease Hello, my mother has been diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease (PKD), and I would like to know if I might have it as well. During a health check at the age of 33, an ultrasound showed that I have two small cysts on my kidney...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Ms. Sharon: "In asymptomatic patients with normal kidney function who have a family history of Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD), an ultrasound is usually sufficient to diagnose or rule out the presence of the disease. In these individuals, MRI may b...[Read More] Understanding Genetic Risks and Diagnosis of Polycystic Kidney Disease
Understanding Positive Urinary Protein: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Urinary protein issue? Hello Dr. Huang, I recently underwent a general health check-up, which included blood and urine tests. When I received the report, the nurse mentioned that everything was normal, but I noticed that my urine protein was positive at 1+, while all other result...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello, a urine protein result of 1+ does not necessarily indicate a problem. If you are concerned, you may want to schedule an appointment with a nephrologist (remember to bring your health check report). Additionally, postural proteinuria is a condition where "normal indivi...[Read More] Understanding Positive Urinary Protein: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Is Syphilis Invisible? Understanding Symptoms and Recurrences
Is syphilis invisible? Last February, I suddenly woke up with a fever, a type of fever I had never experienced before. A few days later, I discovered a half-spherical mass the size of a ping pong ball on my cervix. Initially, I thought I had cancer. After a month, the ulcerous sm...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
A. Your description is quite vivid; however, the Treponema pallidum is not that miraculous. It can be cured with a course of penicillin. B. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the modes of transmission are as follows: 1. Close contact during sexual ...[Read More] Is Syphilis Invisible? Understanding Symptoms and Recurrences
Is My Allergic Rhinitis Leading to Asthma Symptoms?
I would like to ask if it could be asthma? I have had allergic rhinitis for several years. Recently, during the change of seasons, whenever my nose becomes congested due to allergies, I find myself needing to take deep breaths to feel more comfortable. I also tend to cough a bit ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Allergic rhinitis is indeed related to asthma. Although both conditions are associated with immune function (allergy), since they involve the respiratory system, it is advisable to consult a pulmonologist first. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rhe...[Read More] Is My Allergic Rhinitis Leading to Asthma Symptoms?
Understanding HIV Testing: Can You Rule Out Infection After Risky Behavior?
HIV testing issues Hello doctor, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with a female online friend in early April. I went to a medical testing center in mid-April for an HIV antibody test, which came back negative. On May 8, I noticed inflammation of the glans and visited a urolog...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Yes, after the window period, HIV infection can be ruled out. 2. Currently, the accuracy of anonymous screening or blood tests in the country is over 95%. 3. Engaging in unsafe sexual practices may also pose a risk for other sexually transmitted infections; therefore, usin...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Can You Rule Out Infection After Risky Behavior?
Understanding One-Sided Nosebleeds: When to See an ENT Specialist
Bleeding is more likely to occur on the left side? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask: 1. If there is unilateral epistaxis, but the bleeding stops within about 2 minutes. 2. The nasal blood is not pure blood but has a viscous consistency. * After the bleeding stops, there is bloo...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
If a person experiences a nosebleed on one side, and it occurs infrequently and stops quickly, there is usually no need for concern. However, if it happens frequently, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist for further evaluation. If there has been a head injury, one shou...[Read More] Understanding One-Sided Nosebleeds: When to See an ENT Specialist
Can I Use Biologics for Psoriatic Arthritis with Reactive HBc IgG?
Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about the use of biologics for psoriatic arthritis? Hello, doctor. I have psoriatic arthritis, and one out of three doctors has applied for a biologic agent for me (currently under review). However, one of my blood test results shows HBc IgG...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. A positive HBc-IgG indicates that you have had a past infection and may still have latent hepatitis B virus. You can still use biologics, but it is important to regularly monitor the hepatitis B virus load to check for any reactivation during tr...[Read More] Can I Use Biologics for Psoriatic Arthritis with Reactive HBc IgG?
Unsteady and Dizzy: Understanding Balance Issues in Autoimmune Conditions
Feeling unsteady and unable to maintain balance at all times? Hello, doctor. I have rheumatoid arthritis, and one day after sitting in the same position for too long, I suddenly felt dizzy, weak, and cold, almost fainting. After seeking medical attention, I have been experiencing...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If you are continuously undergoing medication management and follow-up treatment, it is advisable to return to your rheumatologist. This visit can help assess for any potential medication side effects and evaluate for cervical spine compression ...[Read More] Unsteady and Dizzy: Understanding Balance Issues in Autoimmune Conditions
Accidental Ingestion of Preservatives: Health Risks and Concerns
Accidental ingestion of preservatives? Hello Doctor, yesterday my younger sister mistakenly threw a disposable lens cleaning wipe into the bag my father uses to brew coffee. Today, my father accidentally put it into the coffee. After coming home from school, I immediately checked...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe that if the cotton swab has not been used to brew coffee, it should be fine. This chemical (phenoxyethanol) is highly volatile, and if it has dried, there is often very little of this substance left in the cotton swab. As long as it h...[Read More] Accidental Ingestion of Preservatives: Health Risks and Concerns