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
Assessing HIV Infection Risk from Minor Injuries and Oral Symptoms
Risk of HIV Infection On October 1st, I noticed a small amount of unknown blood on my right big toe. I'm not sure if it was from someone who dripped it on the ground or if I stepped on it, as I didn't feel anything and didn't notice anyone nearby bleeding. However,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description of the wound on your foot, it is unlikely that it has led to an HIV infection. The symptoms you described are not indicative of HIV, so there is no need for you to undergo specific testing at this time. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Assessing HIV Infection Risk from Minor Injuries and Oral Symptoms
Prolonged Menstruation, Leg Cramps, and Itchy Feet: What to Do?
Prolonged menstruation, itchy legs, and muscle cramps? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing my menstrual cycle for 12 days without stopping. Additionally, I have been waking up four to five times during the night due to frequent calf cramps, and my feet are extremely itchy, whi...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: For menstrual issues, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist. For calf cramps and itchy soles, you can see a neurologist.[Read More] Prolonged Menstruation, Leg Cramps, and Itchy Feet: What to Do?
Two Medical Questions: Rib Discomfort and Hepatitis B Concerns
Two questions, please ask the doctor? Hello, I have two questions I would like to ask you. Today, while practicing diaphragmatic breathing, I noticed that after exhaling, the left rib, specifically the bone in the upper left part of my abdomen, seems to protrude slightly more tha...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. In a normal human body, the ribs on both sides are not perfectly symmetrical. The condition you mentioned is likely just a normal physiological variation and should not be a cause for concern. 2. The injury you mentioned from being scratched by a fork does not pose a ri...[Read More] Two Medical Questions: Rib Discomfort and Hepatitis B Concerns
Understanding Digestive Motility Issues: Causes and Solutions
Peristalsis issues Hello, doctor. I have been severely troubled by gastrointestinal issues for the past two years. My stomach often makes inexplicable and frequent noises, regardless of whether I have eaten. The sounds are not the usual growling associated with hunger or gas move...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that you are primarily troubled by loud bowel sounds. I would like to know if you are experiencing constipation or diarrhea. Typically, the condition you described can be caused by abnormal intestinal motility due to constipation or diar...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Motility Issues: Causes and Solutions
Managing Diabetic Gangrene: Options Beyond Natural Detachment
Management of diabetic foot and hand gangrene? Hello Doctor: My family member is 58 years old and previously experienced septic shock, which resulted in the necrosis of the toes on one hand and one foot. The doctor mentioned that the circulation in the feet is very poor. At that ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
For the management of limb gangrene in diabetic patients, it is necessary to consult with a plastic surgeon or orthopedic specialist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Managing Diabetic Gangrene: Options Beyond Natural Detachment
Understanding Variations in Posterior Tibial Artery Pulsation: When to Seek Help
Inquiry Consultation Dear Dr. Lee, I hope this message finds you well. I am unsure which specialty to consult regarding my issue, so I am starting with internal medicine. If this is not your area of expertise, I would appreciate your guidance on which specialty I should consult....
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Dear Dr. Huang and Dr. Hsiang, The posterior tibial artery is located more superficially near the skin at the ankle, and in thinner individuals, it may be possible to see its pulsation. Generally, it is not easy to "see" it, and quantifying blood flow status visually i...[Read More] Understanding Variations in Posterior Tibial Artery Pulsation: When to Seek Help
Understanding Gout Symptoms: Normal Uric Acid Levels and Foot Discomfort
Regarding normal uric acid levels but slight discomfort in the big toe? Hello Director Gao, I apologize for disturbing you, but I would like to consult you regarding a patient. About ten years ago, the patient experienced sudden severe pain in the foot and was diagnosed with gou...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Can gout occur even with normal uric acid levels? For example, if someone suddenly consumes a large amount of seafood or red meat, or if they haven't been drinking enough water recently, could this trigger a mild...[Read More] Understanding Gout Symptoms: Normal Uric Acid Levels and Foot Discomfort
Unexplained Blisters and Weakness in Legs: Possible Causes and Solutions
Weakness in the feet accompanied by unexplained blisters? Dear Dr. Lin, My mother is 58 years old. Over the past six months, she has experienced weakness in her legs (mainly feeling unsteady while walking, as if she is walking on cotton). In the last three months, she has develo...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: It is difficult to determine the issue based solely on this information. I recommend separating the concerns of foot weakness and blisters. For foot weakness, it is indeed advisable to consult a neurologist, preferably at a regional hospital or higher, as they can arrange ...[Read More] Unexplained Blisters and Weakness in Legs: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Elevated RF Levels: Implications for Autoimmune Disorders
Rheumatoid factor (RF) is elevated in rheumatoid arthritis? Hello Doctor, I have had an allergic constitution since childhood and have been receiving treatment in the rheumatology and immunology department for long-term issues related to my nose and urticaria. During my last visi...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If the test results mentioned above are all the examinations you have undergone, I believe there are additional tests that can be arranged. If you are very concerned and unsure about whether to take quinine, I suggest you consult another rheumat...[Read More] Understanding Elevated RF Levels: Implications for Autoimmune Disorders
Should Stable Type 2 Diabetes Patients Continue Visiting Medical Centers?
Do patients with stable type 2 diabetes still need to continue follow-up visits at a medical center? Hello Doctor, I apologize for the interruption! I would like to ask you a question. I have been living with type 2 diabetes for over seven years. After discovering this issue duri...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If blood sugar levels can be consistently controlled, it is recommended that you transfer to a primary care medical facility for management. It is best to choose a facility that has a physician specializing in metabolic disorders or one that is part of a diabetes collaborative ca...[Read More] Should Stable Type 2 Diabetes Patients Continue Visiting Medical Centers?
Persistent Leg Discomfort After COVID-19 Vaccination: When to Seek Help?
Persistent soreness and numbness in the right calf after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine? Hello, doctor. I received my third dose of Moderna, and starting the next day, I have been experiencing soreness and numbness in my right calf and foot. This sensation has been persistent, la...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, what you described are indeed potential symptoms of the vaccine. It is recommended to rest for a few days, and you should gradually improve. If there is no improvement or if the symptoms continue to worsen, then medical attention is necessary. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Persistent Leg Discomfort After COVID-19 Vaccination: When to Seek Help?
Persistent Leg Discomfort After COVID-19 Vaccination: When to Seek Help?
Persistent soreness and numbness in the right calf after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine? Hello, doctor. I received my third dose of Moderna, and starting the next day, I've been experiencing soreness and numbness in my right calf and foot. This sensation has been quite persi...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, what you described are indeed possible symptoms of the vaccine. It is recommended to rest for a few days, and it should gradually improve. If there is no improvement or if the symptoms continue to worsen, then medical attention is necessary. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Persistent Leg Discomfort After COVID-19 Vaccination: When to Seek Help?
Understanding a Red Spot on Your Foot: Causes and Concerns
A red spot on the dorsum of the foot? Hello, I would like to ask the doctor about something. I received a vaccine at the beginning of September, and I am scheduled to get another one next week. However, after taking a shower just now, I suddenly noticed a red spot on the top of m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the image, it appears to be caused by microvascular hemorrhage in the skin, likely due to unintentional friction or impact. It is advisable to simply observe it, as it should gradually resolve in a few days. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding a Red Spot on Your Foot: Causes and Concerns
Missed the Golden Treatment Window for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Did rheumatoid arthritis miss the golden period for treatment? Hello, doctor. For the past two to three years, I thought my joint pain was due to aging, but I only learned over a year ago that I have rheumatoid arthritis. Unfortunately, it has already caused damage to my foot joi...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, regarding the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, the earlier the better. The first year after onset, or even the six months prior to the onset, is considered the golden period for treatment. However, as long as a diagnosis is confirmed, it is never too late to pursue aggre...[Read More] Missed the Golden Treatment Window for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Understanding Swollen Ankles and Feet in Elderly Patients
Swelling of the ankle and dorsum of the foot in the elderly? Dear Doctor, My mother is 72 years old and has a history of hypertension, gastrointestinal issues, and chronic severe constipation. Recently, she has been experiencing swelling in her right ankle and the top of her fo...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Hello: It is difficult to determine a definitive diagnosis from your description; I recommend following up with a nephrologist to identify the correct underlying cause.[Read More] Understanding Swollen Ankles and Feet in Elderly Patients
Post-AZ Vaccine: Mild Thigh Pain and Blood Circulation Concerns
Mild intermittent pain in the front of the left thigh three to four days after receiving the AZ vaccine? Hello, I received the AZ vaccine 3-4 days ago, and since last night, I've been experiencing intermittent pain in the front of my left thigh. The pain does not persist con...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your timeline and symptoms, it is likely that the foot pain is not caused by a thrombus related to the AZ vaccine. However, if the discomfort persists, you may consider consulting an orthopedic or neurology specialist to identify the underlying cause. Thank you fo...[Read More] Post-AZ Vaccine: Mild Thigh Pain and Blood Circulation Concerns
Vaccination Concerns for Patients with Chronic Dermatitis
Vaccination inquiries? Hello Dr. Hong, I visited the dermatologist last week for a follow-up appointment. The doctor said I have chronic eczema and advised me to continue applying the medication. It seems to be improving as I no longer see any flakes. Last time, there was slight ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your provided skin condition, whether it is psoriasis or another diagnosis, it will not affect the administration of vaccines. The choice of vaccine type should also not be impacted, and you can receive the vaccine. The quality of the AZ vaccine is certified by th...[Read More] Vaccination Concerns for Patients with Chronic Dermatitis
Understanding Recurring Red Spots on Ankles: Possible Causes and Insights
Red spots on the feet? Hello Doctor: I have multiple sclerosis (MS), and for the past two months, I have been experiencing red spots on the inner sides of my ankles. They are not painful or itchy, but they recur and tend to spread upward. Sometimes, red spots also appear on the d...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. The small red spots on your skin may also be due to ruptured blood vessels or vasculitis. A dermatologist should provide you with their preliminary suspected diagnosis. As for the ANA of 160 and RF of 32.8, these are just initial screening indic...[Read More] Understanding Recurring Red Spots on Ankles: Possible Causes and Insights
Understanding Foot Edema: Causes, Concerns, and Solutions
Foot edema Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing swelling in my feet for the past six months. Sometimes my feet feel sore before bed or upon waking up. However, I had a blood test in February, and all basic parameters, including liver and kidney functions, were normal. The only ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 91.7 is within the normal physiological range and should not be directly related to edema. Based on your description, it is likely due to poor vascular elasticity, which can lead to inadequate blood circulation and subsequent edema. Va...[Read More] Understanding Foot Edema: Causes, Concerns, and Solutions