Understanding Joint and Muscle Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Management
Joint and muscle pain Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you a few questions. 1. Initially, I experienced pain in my right knee and went to an orthopedic clinic where an ultrasound revealed inflammation and swelling. The doctor suggested a possible meniscus injury. However, afte...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Initially, I experienced pain in my right knee and visited an orthopedic clinic where an ultrasound revealed inflammation and swelling. The doctor suggested a possible meniscus injury. After a follow-up visit with no i...[Read More] Understanding Joint and Muscle Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Management
Understanding Post-Massage Discomfort and Skin Concerns: A Doctor's Insight
May I ask the doctor? Hello Doctor, I am currently abroad and yesterday I went for a shoulder and foot massage with my university classmates. I would like to ask why my shoulders, which were tight before, feel sore after the massage. This is my first time getting a massage. Addit...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. People who are not accustomed to massages may feel uncomfortable during their first experience and may even resist the massage therapist, resulting in soreness afterward. Therefore, it's important to relax and enjoy the massage process during your next visit. 2. As for ...[Read More] Understanding Post-Massage Discomfort and Skin Concerns: A Doctor's Insight
Do You Need a Tetanus Shot After a Rusty Nail Injury?
Is it necessary to get a tetanus shot? Yesterday, on June 14th, I was punctured on the inner side of my foot by a rusty metal object while outside my home. At the time, it didn't penetrate completely; I felt something poke my foot and immediately moved away. There was a smal...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. According to the literature, even if the wound is clean or very minor, if you have never received a tetanus vaccine before or if it has been more than 10 years since your last vaccination, it is advisable to get vaccinated. There is no data avai...[Read More] Do You Need a Tetanus Shot After a Rusty Nail Injury?
Understanding Your First Gout Attack: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management
First gout attack? Hello Doctor, I visited the clinic at the beginning of April due to ankle pain. At that time, I had been lifting heavy objects for half a day due to work. The next day, my ankle became red, swollen, hot, and painful, so I went back to the clinic where the docto...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. If I understand correctly, both (Probenecid and Allopurinol) are medications used to lower uric acid levels. Generally, we prescribe only one uric acid-lowering medication, and we only consider combining them in patients who are more difficult ...[Read More] Understanding Your First Gout Attack: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management
Understanding Uric Acid Levels: Insights on Gout and Health Management
Interpretation of Uric Acid Levels Hello, Doctor. I am 175 cm tall and weigh 97 kg. I have had high blood pressure since I was 16 years old. I do not drink alcohol but often stay up late. On March 15, I sprained my left ankle; at the time, there was no pain or swelling. However, ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. I have been losing weight for over a month, with my weight dropping from 104 kg to 97 kg. I would like to know if my lowest uric acid level in my life, which is 5.6 mg/dL, is due to dietary control or because I previ...[Read More] Understanding Uric Acid Levels: Insights on Gout and Health Management
Should You Get Rabies Vaccination After an Animal Bite in Taiwan?
Animal bite injury About a week ago, I was bitten by some kind of creature while at the beach near Kenting Street. I saw a bat at that time. The next day, I noticed two close red spots on my foot, but since there was no pain, I didn't seek medical attention. Today, I realize...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
It is advised not to proceed, as it is difficult to confirm whether it is an inappropriate bite or if it was a bat bite. Currently, there have been no reported cases of rabies virus found in bats in the country. Alternatively, you can visit a healthcare facility that provides rab...[Read More] Should You Get Rabies Vaccination After an Animal Bite in Taiwan?
Consulting a Doctor: COVID-19 Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Consult a doctor? Hello Doctor, I tested positive for COVID-19 a few days ago and have a few questions. I am currently taking Qingguo No. 1 and have also visited an ENT specialist for medication to treat my sore throat and runny nose. I noticed that my phlegm has been yellow and ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. After several days of forceful coughing, it is normal to have some blood-tinged sputum due to the rupture of small blood vessels in the trachea. However, if there is a significant amount of fresh blood, it is different, and you should seek medical attention. 2. Whether it...[Read More] Consulting a Doctor: COVID-19 Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Understanding Unexplained Inflammatory Pain: A Guide for Young Adults
Unexplained inflammatory pain? I am currently 23 years old. I started experiencing occasional knee pain in middle school, but it wasn't particularly severe. The frequency of inflammation and pain has increased with age. Since high school, I have also had issues with inflamma...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe that conditions such as "recurrent rheumatic disease" can be monitored in the field of immunology and rheumatology. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Inflammatory Pain: A Guide for Young Adults
Chronic Lower Back Pain Without Diagnosis: What Are Your Options?
If you have been experiencing lower back pain for more than three months without a clear diagnosis, what should you do? Hello, Doctor Wu! I am here to inquire about a family member who is a 47-year-old male, working as a night shift operator for 25 years (his job does not require...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
It is recommended to see a large hospital's Immunology and Rheumatology department or Orthopedics. Wishing you well.[Read More] Chronic Lower Back Pain Without Diagnosis: What Are Your Options?
Understanding Skin Wounds: Care Tips and Healing Time
Please consult a doctor regarding the wound? Hello Doctor, I am currently abroad with my family for a week. Two days ago, I noticed some itching on the side of my left foot. After rubbing it, some skin flakes came off, and it seems like there was already a small area of broken sk...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the image link cannot be opened! Additionally, online consultations are not available here. Based on your description, I recommend continuing with your current care methods and seeking medical attention as soon as possible.[Read More] Understanding Skin Wounds: Care Tips and Healing Time
Understanding Gout Symptoms: Is Morning Discomfort a Sign of Flare-Up?
Regarding the recent cold weather, I have been experiencing a dull sensation in my big toe, which has a history of gout, upon waking up in the morning. However, after urinating, the discomfort significantly decreases? Hello, Director Gao! I apologize for bothering you, but I have...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, this question has been asked before, so I will repost my response. If your uric acid levels remain consistently normal, I don't believe it is a gout attack. Previously affected joints from arthritis may leave some residual effects, making them more sensitive to change...[Read More] Understanding Gout Symptoms: Is Morning Discomfort a Sign of Flare-Up?
Understanding Gout Symptoms: Is Morning Discomfort a Sign of Flare-Up?
Regarding the recent cold weather, I have been experiencing a feeling of heaviness in my big toe, which previously had gout, upon waking up in the morning. However, after urinating, the sensation decreases significantly? Hello, Director Gao! I apologize for bothering you, but I h...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. If your uric acid levels remain consistently normal, I don't believe this is a gout attack. Joints that have previously experienced arthritis may leave some residual effects, making them more sensitive to changes in humidity and climate. Y...[Read More] Understanding Gout Symptoms: Is Morning Discomfort a Sign of Flare-Up?
Understanding Recurring Ankle Swelling: Possible Causes and Solutions
Repeated mild swelling and subsiding of the ankle in a short period of time? Hello, Doctor. Let me summarize my condition. On the evening of October 18, I experienced pain in the left heel while walking, and my ankle was slightly swollen that night. On October 19, I felt a sharp ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 2. Recently, I have also noticed that after experiencing coldness in my hands and feet, I feel a sharp pain on the inner side of my left ankle. Is this related to gout or other diseases? --> It should not be related....[Read More] Understanding Recurring Ankle Swelling: Possible Causes and Solutions
Experiencing Sudden Foot Pain: When to See a Doctor?
Suspected needle stick injury? Two days ago, while walking on the street, I felt a sudden pain in my foot, as if I had been pricked by a needle. Which type of doctor should I see for this, and what should I do to address it?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. You can first check what was collected by yourself or ask a family member to do so, remove any foreign objects, and then perform wound care. 2. If the wound does not improve, you may go to a nearby medical facility for a dressing change or further treatment.[Read More] Experiencing Sudden Foot Pain: When to See a Doctor?
Experiencing Sudden Foot Pain: When to See a Doctor?
Suspected needle stick injury? Two days ago, while walking on the road, I felt a sudden pain in my foot, as if I had been pricked by a needle. Which type of doctor should I see for this, and what should I do to manage it?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. You can first check what was collected by yourself or ask a family member to help, remove any foreign objects, and then perform wound care. 2. If the wound does not improve, you may visit a nearby medical facility for dressing changes or further treatment.[Read More] Experiencing Sudden Foot Pain: When to See a Doctor?
Understanding Urine Ketones: What Does a 3+ Result Mean for Your Health?
The medical examination report indicates urine ketones at 3+? Hello doctor, in April of this year, I experienced redness, swelling, and pain in my left foot, and a doctor at a clinic diagnosed it as gout (without blood tests). I have a history of gout and usually manage my diet, ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
The production of urine ketones is usually related to prolonged fasting. Please consult a metabolic specialist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Urine Ketones: What Does a 3+ Result Mean for Your Health?
Understanding Symptoms: Is It Multiple Sclerosis or Spinal Issues?
Possible Multiple Sclerosis Hello, doctor. I am a patient with ulcerative colitis, which is currently under control. My colonoscopy showed that the mucosa has healed. I unexpectedly discovered a mild positive result in my cryoglobulin test after being diagnosed with COVID-19. The...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe there is a higher likelihood of cervical spine compression. If you are concerned about multiple sclerosis, it would be advisable to have an evaluation by a neurologist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua H...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Is It Multiple Sclerosis or Spinal Issues?
Understanding Symptoms: Is It Multiple Sclerosis or Spinal Issues?
Possible Multiple Sclerosis Hello, doctor. I am a patient with ulcerative colitis, which is currently under control, and my colonoscopy showed that the mucosa has healed. I unexpectedly discovered a mild positive result in my cryoglobulin test after being diagnosed with COVID-19....
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe there is a higher likelihood of cervical spine compression. If you are concerned about multiple sclerosis, it would be advisable to have an evaluation by a neurologist. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Changhua H...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Is It Multiple Sclerosis or Spinal Issues?
Can You Get HIV from Walking Barefoot on Sharp Objects?
Transmission routes of HIV (foot) Walking barefoot and getting pierced by a sharp object that is contaminated with HIV-infected bodily fluids poses a risk for HIV transmission, but the likelihood is very low. HIV is primarily transmitted through direct contact with certain bodily...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any other exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries the risk of inf...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Walking Barefoot on Sharp Objects?
Concerns About Infection and Parasites from Snail Contact
Infection and parasitic issues? Hello, Doctor. 1. If I accidentally kicked a snail while wearing flip-flops (and I'm not sure if my foot made direct contact with the snail), and afterwards I wiped my foot with a wet wipe, is there a concern about parasitic infection? 2. I...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. As long as there are no obvious wounds on the foot, it will not occur. 2. Yes, it can occur. Dupuytren's contracture is caused by repetitive irritation leading to chronic inflammation. Reducing the irritation is an important part of treatment, and you can consult a derm...[Read More] Concerns About Infection and Parasites from Snail Contact