Understanding HIV Transmission Risks with Shared Sex Toys
Re: Sharing a Fleshlight 2 Hello, doctor. I apologize for bothering you again regarding the three questions from last time: Q1: If the previous user was infected with HIV, what is the likelihood of transmission? Q2: If the semen was not dry when obtained, will the semen that d...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, Q1. The amount of HIV virus in the semen of each HIV patient can vary depending on their immune status and whether they are receiving treatment, so the risk of infection depends on the HIV status of the partner. Q2. As long as there is semen, there is a potential risk ...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks with Shared Sex Toys
Can Using a Shared Masturbation Cup Increase HIV Risk?
Regarding the sharing of masturbation cups, is there a risk of contracting HIV? The first use was about 9 hours after obtaining it. Before use, I tested the interior with my finger, and it was dry with no fluid. During the first use, I wore a condom and applied lubricant. Afterwa...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, since I am unaware of how previous individuals used it, I cannot assess the risk of HIV infection. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can Using a Shared Masturbation Cup Increase HIV Risk?
Understanding Hand Tremors: Causes, Concerns, and Management Tips
Please consult a doctor? Hello, about four years ago, I occasionally noticed that one of my fingers would shake while I was eating with chopsticks, which my family also observed. When I intentionally tried to straighten it, there was a slight tremor. Later, I consulted a neurolog...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is more likely that the hand tremors are caused by emotional factors, which is quite common, especially during moments of anger and anxiety. This is usually a normal physiological response, so some tests may come back normal. It is recommended...[Read More] Understanding Hand Tremors: Causes, Concerns, and Management Tips
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Bloating: Possible Causes and Insights
Abdominal distension and pain? Hello: About three days ago, I started experiencing pain in the area 1-2 fingerbreadths to the right of my navel, as well as 1-2 fingerbreadths above it. There is a noticeable pain when walking or pressing on my abdomen, but there is no pain when pr...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, there are many diseases to consider in the area you mentioned. The most important one to be cautious about is acute appendicitis. Other possibilities include acute pyelonephritis and issues related to the liver or gallbladder. It is advisable to consult a gastroenterologis...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Bloating: Possible Causes and Insights
Concerns About COVID-19 Transmission from Packages: What You Need to Know
Infection transmission through packages? Hello doctor, I would like to ask you a question. My brother ordered a laptop stand online from PChome yesterday, and he was very happy to receive it today. However, I am a bit worried because I saw news reports about the presence of the c...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the risk of infection should be very low. Additionally, since you received a tetanus vaccine within the last five years, your antibodies should still be effective, so there is no need to worry too much. As for the wound, I recommend disinfecting ...[Read More] Concerns About COVID-19 Transmission from Packages: What You Need to Know
Persistent Swelling of the Ring Finger: Which Specialist to Consult?
Swelling of the third phalanx of the ring finger that does not subside? Three years ago, I underwent surgery for a ganglion cyst. About a year later, my fingers started to swell intermittently. During this time, I visited a traditional Chinese medicine clinic for treatment, which...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the ganglion cysts you mentioned often continue to swell and frequently recur. Typically, they are evaluated by a plastic surgeon or an orthopedic surgeon. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Persistent Swelling of the Ring Finger: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding Chest Discomfort: Muscle Pain or Heart Concerns?
Discomfort in the muscles near the chest? Hello Doctor: In the past few days, I have occasionally felt pain in the area about 3-4 fingers wide above the left nipple or near the midpoint between the nipple and the armpit when I move my arm. I'm not sure if it's muscle pa...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the area you are referring to is likely where the cartilage or pleura is prone to inflammation. The deep breathing or chest expansion you mentioned can trigger pain, suggesting it could be pleuritis or costochondritis. It is possible that you previously experienced a cold,...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: Muscle Pain or Heart Concerns?
Understanding Finger Nail Blood Spots: When to Seek Medical Advice
Subungual hematoma Hello Doctor, after taking a shower, I noticed a small black dot at the tip of my left index finger nail. I previously read that skin lesions could also present this way, although they usually appear as a line. However, when I examined the area just in front of...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, since I cannot assess the actual situation in detail, I can only speculate based on your description. It does seem likely that it could be scabbing or dirt, which are quite common on the fingers. If it has already fallen off, there is no need to worry. The iodine tincture ...[Read More] Understanding Finger Nail Blood Spots: When to Seek Medical Advice
Concerns About Minor Finger Wounds and Infection Risks
Small cuts on the fingers? Hello Doctor, I had a small cut on my finger this morning while using my nails. Later in the evening, while peeling shrimp, I felt some pain and I'm not sure if it was due to the moisture from the boiled shrimp. I just looked online and I'm wo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, properly cooked seafood has a significantly lower risk of infection. It is advisable to monitor for any subsequent signs of infection, such as fever or redness, swelling, heat, and pain at the wound site. If none of these symptoms are present, there should be no need for c...[Read More] Concerns About Minor Finger Wounds and Infection Risks
Understanding Abdominal Pain After a Bicycle Accident: When to Seek Help
Abdominal impact? About three days ago, I accidentally collided with the front of another bicycle while riding. Although my speed was not fast, my abdomen hit the handlebars, causing some pain initially. Now, there is pain in a small area about 3-4 finger widths above my navel, w...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the organ you are referring to is the stomach. The stomach is usually not easily injured. It is advisable to monitor the bruised area to see if it continues to expand or if there is any worsening pain. If there are no such symptoms, it should be a simple soft tissue injury...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain After a Bicycle Accident: When to Seek Help
Morning Finger Joint Pain: Is It Rheumatoid Arthritis or Something Else?
Finger joint pain Hello Doctor: For the past three weeks, I have been experiencing pain and stiffness in my fingers upon waking up in the morning, making it difficult to bend them or make a fist. After 1-2 hours of activity, the symptoms lessen, and by evening, I gradually return...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Morning joint stiffness and pain in the distal interphalangeal joints are indeed similar to the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. However, since you have only experienced these symptoms for three weeks, further evaluation is necessary for confir...[Read More] Morning Finger Joint Pain: Is It Rheumatoid Arthritis or Something Else?
Daily High Fever and Weight Loss in a 70-Year-Old with Lupus
Persistent high fever every morning accompanied by weight loss? Hello, Doctor. Thank you for taking the time to read this amidst your busy schedule. My father, who is 70 years old, has been diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. You can return for a follow-up appointment anytime you feel unwell, especially if you have a fever, without worrying about the physician's opinion. 2. If you have had a persistent fever for over a month, that is...[Read More] Daily High Fever and Weight Loss in a 70-Year-Old with Lupus
Unexplained Red Dots on Fingers: Should You Worry About Bloodborne Infections?
Unknown small red spots on the fingers? Yesterday, I noticed a small unknown red dot on my finger that looks like a puncture wound. I would like to inquire whether this could lead to any blood infection. I am concerned because the previous person was an acute HIV infection case w...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the chance of infection is very low. However, if you are still concerned, you can visit the infectious disease clinic to inquire about screening options. Generally speaking, if there is no exposure after three months, the risk should be quite low...[Read More] Unexplained Red Dots on Fingers: Should You Worry About Bloodborne Infections?
Understanding the Transmission of HPV: Can You Get It from Shared Devices?
Transmission routes of cauliflower disease (genital warts)? Hello doctor, I'm about to enter the second year of junior high school, and my older brother is in his first year of college. Today, after playing games on his phone, I went to urinate and I can't remember if m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection, and the vast majority of cases are transmitted through sexual intercourse. Therefore, the likelihood of infection through the process you described is very low. Additionally, your brother or those around you likely do not...[Read More] Understanding the Transmission of HPV: Can You Get It from Shared Devices?
Three Common Health Concerns to Discuss with Your Doctor
Three questions to ask the doctor? Hello, I have been observing my body recently and have three areas I would like to consult a doctor about. First, I noticed a cord-like structure extending from my scrotum, but my testicles are not evenly positioned in the center. Is this normal...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It is normal for a healthy individual's testicles to vary in size and position; this is completely normal, so there is no need to worry. 2. A pneumothorax typically presents with severe chest pain and shortness of breath. Based on your description, it is unlike...[Read More] Three Common Health Concerns to Discuss with Your Doctor
Understanding Dryness Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Tests
Immunity and Sjögren's Syndrome Hello Doctor: Two years ago, I experienced joint swelling and inflammation in my little finger. My family doctor recommended tests, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and anti-citrullinated protein antibody (CCP) tests, both of which returned...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Sjögren's syndrome requires a detailed medical history, which includes not only questions about dry mouth but also inquiries about dry eyes and even respiratory symptoms. Blood tests should be arranged, including screening for antinuclear a...[Read More] Understanding Dryness Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Tests
Unexplained Fever, Weight Loss, and Joint Pain: A Medical Mystery
Unexplained fever with low-grade temperature, unintentional weight loss, and joint and muscle pain? Hello, doctor. I have undergone numerous tests in the infectious disease department, and the only abnormal finding was a slightly elevated cancer marker (for reference only) and a ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it does align with the situation of "fever of unknown origin." We should indeed be cautious about atypical infections or bone marrow issues. Therefore, I agree with your infectious disease physician's recommendation to conduct furt...[Read More] Unexplained Fever, Weight Loss, and Joint Pain: A Medical Mystery
Understanding Low C3 and C4 Levels: Do They Indicate Immune System Disorders?
Immune system Hello Doctor: Recently, I had a blood test at the Metabolism Department and found that my C3 and C4 complement levels were low, and my white blood cell count was around 3100. I would like to ask if this indicates an immune system disease? Do I need treatment, or sho...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Rita, thank you for your message. Complement proteins are related to the immune system and typically increase during infections; however, in some immune system disorders, complement levels may be low, which can serve as a reference for diagnosing related immune diseases and...[Read More] Understanding Low C3 and C4 Levels: Do They Indicate Immune System Disorders?
Understanding Chronic Joint and Muscle Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Muscle and joint pain? Hello Dr. Tseng, I have been experiencing increasing fatigue upon waking up every day for the past few years (average sleep time from 12:30 AM to 6:30 AM). During sleep, I often experience pain in my shoulders, elbows, and finger joints, as well as swelling...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, it is abnormal to experience pain in the shoulder, elbow, and finger joints while sleeping, and even to wake up due to joint pain during sleep. Blood tests for rheumatoid arthritis factors and uric acid levels have returned normal, but other rheumatic diseases cannot be ru...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Joint and Muscle Pain: Causes and Treatment Options
Concerns About Infection: Assessing Risks of HIV and Syphilis from Cuts
Concern about infection? Hello, Doctor. 1. I sustained a cut on my finger and asked a colleague to apply a band-aid. My colleague had a wound on their hand, and some blood got on the band-aid before it was applied to my cut. At the time, I didn't think about the risk of in...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Currently, there are no clinical cases that have been documented regarding the situation you described. Evidence-based medicine is unable to address hypothetical questions. It is recommended that you schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to evaluate and treat your symptoms...[Read More] Concerns About Infection: Assessing Risks of HIV and Syphilis from Cuts