Understanding the Link Between EB Virus, CMV, and White Blood Cell Counts
The relationship between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and leukocytes? Hello Doctor, I experienced fever along with swollen and painful bilateral inguinal lymph nodes at the beginning of February. I went for a urology examination, and the blood test was done ap...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. It is recommended to include the reference ranges for the test results to facilitate interpretation, as different hospitals may use different laboratory equipment, which can lead to variations in normal values. Additionally, although the total w...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between EB Virus, CMV, and White Blood Cell Counts
Is My New Lower Back Pain a Side Effect of Salazopyrin or AS Symptoms?
My new lower back pain symptoms could be indicative of ankylosing spondylitis, or could they be a side effect of taking Celebrex? Hello Dr. Zeng, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis and have been experiencing symptoms for 2 years. In the first year, I mainly took anti-infl...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Is it true that the side effects of Seroquel need to be differentiated? If back pain is a side effect, it will not cause permanent harm to the body. It is recommended to follow up with the attending physician for evaluation.[Read More] Is My New Lower Back Pain a Side Effect of Salazopyrin or AS Symptoms?
Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Snail in Vegetables
Parasitic issues? Hello Doctor: I have a habit of steaming vegetables. However, during dinner the day before yesterday, I accidentally bit into a small snail (and even broke its shell) in the vegetables. Although I immediately spat it out, I am still worried about the risk of par...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It is impossible to predict whether all of them are cooked. 2. Unless one is traveling to areas with a high prevalence of parasites, such as Africa, or during outbreaks of infections, preventive medication is rarely necessary. 3. If there are gastrointestinal discomfort...[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Snail in Vegetables
Is My New Lower Back Pain a Side Effect of Salazopyrin or AS Symptoms?
My new lower back pain symptoms could be indicative of ankylosing spondylitis, or they might be a side effect of taking Celebrex? Hello, Doctor. I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and I have been experiencing symptoms for two years. During the first year, I primarily too...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here is my response: 1) Starting from the second month after taking Salazopyrin, I developed new symptoms of back pain. However, I have not experienced any rashes, fever, jaundice, pallor, diarrhea, headaches, vomiting, or any other physical ...[Read More] Is My New Lower Back Pain a Side Effect of Salazopyrin or AS Symptoms?
Concerns About Hookworm Infection After Stepping in Dog Waste
Stepping barefoot on dog feces? On my way to class today (wearing flip-flops), I accidentally stepped in dog feces without noticing it on the ground. Although I was wearing flip-flops, my foot still came into contact with it. I found some tissue to clean my foot about twenty minu...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the situation you mentioned, the likelihood of a parasitic infection is very low. It is recommended to monitor the condition, provided there are no subsequent symptoms of fever or lymphadenopathy. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Concerns About Hookworm Infection After Stepping in Dog Waste
Is It Safe to Eat Leftover Sashimi? Risks and Concerns Explained
Eating leftover sashimi can have effects. Sashimi is raw fish, and if it is not stored properly or consumed within a safe timeframe, it can pose a risk of foodborne illnesses due to bacterial growth or parasites. It is generally recommended to consume sashimi fresh and to refrige...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the impact of parasites is relatively minor; the main concern is the consumption of raw food that has been left overnight, which can lead to significant bacterial growth. This increases the risk of bacterial gastroenteritis. Please be cautious of symptoms such as fever, ab...[Read More] Is It Safe to Eat Leftover Sashimi? Risks and Concerns Explained
Accidentally Ingested Contaminated River Water: Risks and Precautions
Accidentally ingested contaminated water? Recently, when I was playing by the river, I accidentally fell into the water and swallowed a large mouthful of river water, which looked quite dirty. I immediately vomited it out and rinsed my mouth with tap water. Am I at risk of contra...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is currently difficult to determine if an infection will occur; it may depend on subsequent symptoms. If you experience fever, abdominal pain, or diarrhea, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist or a family medicine clinic. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Accidentally Ingested Contaminated River Water: Risks and Precautions
Understanding Dizziness and Head Injuries: Key Recovery Tips
Dizziness and fainting followed by a head injury? Hello Dr. Hong, my girlfriend is in Spain. A couple of days ago, she suddenly fainted in the kitchen and hit her head. When she went to see a doctor, the doctor requested some physiological response tests, such as whether her eyes...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to monitor for severe headaches or vomiting within the next 48 hours. If either occurs, you should promptly return to the emergency department for evaluation of potential intracranial hemorrhage. If no significant symptoms develop afterward, the likelihoo...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Head Injuries: Key Recovery Tips
Understanding ANA Testing in Relation to Lupus and Allergies
Regarding ANA testing in systemic lupus erythematosus? Hello, around September 2022, I experienced redness and itching on my face and scalp, along with peeling skin and increased hair loss. I also felt fatigued and had difficulty concentrating. However, I did not have joint pain ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Although the ANA test result is negative, considering that the butterfly rash appeared in September, which was four months ago, how accurate is this blood test? Can systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a negative ...[Read More] Understanding ANA Testing in Relation to Lupus and Allergies
Understanding Positive ANA and Normal Complement Levels in SLE Concerns
ANA positive homogeneous 1:160+ with normal C3 and C4 complement levels? Hello Doctor: Recently, I developed hives and visited the rheumatology and immunology department. After blood tests, it was found that my ANA was positive with a homogeneous pattern at 1:160. Other tests for...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. A positive ANA (antinuclear antibody) test can occur in healthy individuals as well. To confirm this possibility, we will investigate the reasons for a positive ANA, including the series of tests you mentioned. If these tests return negative res...[Read More] Understanding Positive ANA and Normal Complement Levels in SLE Concerns
Is There a Connection Between Urticaria and Immune System Disorders?
Is urticaria related to immune system disorders? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing itching in my limbs for the past three weeks. The itching has progressively worsened, so I consulted a dermatologist who diagnosed me with urticaria, although I have never had this condition b...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
There is a connection between immune dysregulation and urticaria. For further differential diagnosis, you can consult a dermatologist or an immunology/allergy specialist. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Is There a Connection Between Urticaria and Immune System Disorders?
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
Persistent Cough and Fever After Negative COVID Test: What to Know
After testing negative for COVID-19, I have been experiencing persistent coughing and recurrent fever? I would like to ask about my friend who was previously diagnosed with COVID-19. Although he tested negative on a rapid test afterward, he has been experiencing low-grade fevers ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Many people do continue to cough for a long time after recovering from COVID-19. It is important to determine whether there is a complication such as pneumonia. If pneumonia is present, antibiotic treatment may be necessary. The most accurate way to assess this is through a chest...[Read More] Persistent Cough and Fever After Negative COVID Test: What to Know
Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Concerns
Fasting blood glucose levels are elevated? On October 14, 2021, I went to the emergency room due to discomfort from vaccine side effects, around 8 PM after dinner, feeling very anxious (due to chest pain). The emergency department recorded a blood glucose level of 171. A few days...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Fasting blood glucose greater than 100 mg/dL or hemoglobin A1c greater than 5.6% indicates prediabetes. Low-dose mirtazapine is not commonly associated with hyperglycemia. Maintaining proper dietary control and lifestyle adjustments is key. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Cellulitis Treatment: Addressing Ongoing Pain and Swelling
Questions about the treatment of cellulitis? Hello Doctor: My mother experienced redness, swelling, and pain in her foot dorsum at night in late November, accompanied by fever. Therefore, she went to the emergency department for evaluation. Although there were no wounds, the doct...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, in patients with compromised immunity or poor blood circulation, cellulitis can indeed be difficult to resolve. It is usually necessary to confirm whether there is pus formation or bone infection. Based on your description, a CT scan has already been performed, which shoul...[Read More] Understanding Cellulitis Treatment: Addressing Ongoing Pain and Swelling
Post-Surgery Concerns After Gastric Perforation: Your Questions Answered
Postoperative issues following gastric perforation surgery? Hello Dr. Hong, I would like to consult you on the following issues. Thank you. Summary of the condition: I maintain a normal lifestyle, do not smoke or drink, and do not stay up late. However, recently I took medicatio...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Due to endocrine factors, along with the fact that it is quieter at night, most pain tends to be more pronounced during the night; this is a physiological phenomenon. If there is a sudden severe pain, then it is necessary to seek medical attention. 2. Yes, surgery c...[Read More] Post-Surgery Concerns After Gastric Perforation: Your Questions Answered
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks from Contaminated Toilet Paper
Transmission of HIV/AIDS Hello doctor, at the end of July this year, I used a public restroom and found that the toilet paper was wet when I wiped my intimate area. I'm not sure what liquid the toilet paper was contaminated with, but at the end of August, I experienced a fev...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, urine does not transmit HIV, but semen can indeed transmit HIV, although the risk of infection is very low. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks from Contaminated Toilet Paper
Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Next Steps
Elevated white blood cell count? Hello, doctor. First, I would like to inform you that I am a patient with myasthenia gravis. I am currently taking four tablets of Mestinon daily and one tablet of Anspine weekly. Here are my questions: Since mid-September, I have been infected wi...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, we are currently in the era of COVID-19, so it is essential to rule out this possibility by conducting a self-administered rapid test and receiving the COVID-19 vaccine (at least four doses are recommended). 2. Secondly, the side effects of medications should also be c...[Read More] Understanding Elevated White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Next Steps
Concerns About Infection After Beach Cleanup: What You Need to Know
Infection concerns? Hello, I recently participated in a beach cleanup event, and after it ended, I noticed a red spot on the top of my foot. The spot is not bleeding, and I'm unsure if it was caused by a needle on the beach or an insect bite. I would like to know if, in this...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, unless it is confirmed that you have been punctured, based on your description, it is unlikely that you will be infected with any specific pathogens. You should monitor your body for any fever or discomfort, as well as observe the condition of any red spots. If you experie...[Read More] Concerns About Infection After Beach Cleanup: What You Need to Know