Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Cause Recurring Boils?
Will ankylosing spondylitis continuously cause boils? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis in April this year. After taking medication for half a month, I suddenly developed a boil in the groin area, which required surgical intervention. I took antibiotics fo...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe the relationship with medication is relatively low; it may be more related to ankylosing spondylitis or related rheumatic diseases. I suggest discussing this with your physician and paying attention to whether you have recurrent oral ...[Read More] Can Ankylosing Spondylitis Cause Recurring Boils?
Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Raw Fish Delivery
Sashimi rice bowl delivered on a hot summer day? Hello Doctor, due to my internship, I am currently in Shanghai. On May 17, 2024, during a hot day, I had delivery of chopped sashimi, which included fresh Norwegian salmon, Arctic sweet shrimp, and Arctic surf clams. In the afterno...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, leaving raw food at higher temperatures significantly increases the risk of bacterial growth, which can lead to gastroenteritis. In contrast, the relationship between parasites and temperature is minimal (if food contains parasites, they do not proliferate within the food)...[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Raw Fish Delivery
Can Eating Expired Food Damage Your Liver and Kidneys?
Food issues Hello doctor, I would like to ask if food poisoning can lead to liver and kidney damage, or if it can cause the function of previously healthy liver and kidneys (with normal blood test results) to deteriorate. I accidentally ate an expired Shaqima and experienced gast...
Dr. Zhang Shixin Reply:
Hello Kiki: Bacterial or viral gastroenteritis, when occurring in healthy adults, typically does not have a significant impact on liver or kidney function unless there is a state of shock due to severe dehydration from persistent vomiting and diarrhea, or if a serious infection l...[Read More] Can Eating Expired Food Damage Your Liver and Kidneys?
Can Drinking Fish Tank Water Cause Parasite Infections in Toddlers?
Can a one-year-old child get a parasitic infection from drinking aquarium water? Hello, doctor. My child accidentally drank water from an outdoor fish tank. Although I pulled her away from the water's surface immediately and rinsed her mouth with tap water, today is the thir...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the likelihood of contracting parasites from a single exposure to contaminated or dirty water is quite low, and most parasites cannot reproduce within the human body. Therefore, even if one ingests one or two parasites, it is unlikely to cause any significant health effect...[Read More] Can Drinking Fish Tank Water Cause Parasite Infections in Toddlers?
Can SLE Patients Safely Take Probiotics for Digestive Issues?
Can individuals with SLE take probiotics? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with SLE. Recently, I have been experiencing some digestive issues, including bloating and gastrointestinal discomfort (without abdominal pain, constipation, and with a normal appetite). I have seen a gastroen...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe it is possible. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is here to assist you.[Read More] Can SLE Patients Safely Take Probiotics for Digestive Issues?
Can Swallowing Toilet Water Lead to Infections? Expert Insights
Infection concerns? Using a public restroom in a department store, I accidentally dropped something into the toilet water, and the water splashed out, directly hitting my mouth. In a moment of panic, I swallowed it before I could react. Will this cause an infection?
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the risk of swallowing a small amount of dirty water is similar to eating contaminated food. The main concern is that a higher number of bacteria could lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhea. If the amount is small, it usually does not cause any symptoms. The risk...[Read More] Can Swallowing Toilet Water Lead to Infections? Expert Insights
Recurring Monthly Fevers: Unraveling the Mystery Beyond Flu and COVID
Recurring fever every month that is neither influenza nor COVID-19? Since changing jobs in the second half of last year, I've been experiencing a lot of health issues (previously, I would only catch a cold once every six months). In May, I developed numerous unexplained red ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Recurrent fever is still a concern, and I recommend that you see a rheumatologist for further evaluation and testing. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Changhua Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare is here to assi...[Read More] Recurring Monthly Fevers: Unraveling the Mystery Beyond Flu and COVID
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Insulin Resistance Connection
Gastrointestinal discomfort Hello doctor, I have been experiencing issues with gas and belching for the past few months. I recently underwent an endoscopy, and the doctor prescribed medication, but it hasn't been very effective. Today, I received my company's health che...
Dr. Cai Mingsong Reply:
Intestinal gas can be caused by gastrointestinal diseases, dietary issues, or other problems. Insulin resistance occurs when the body's muscles and fat respond poorly to insulin, which may lead to hyperglycemia. Individuals with diabetes often experience gastrointestinal iss...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Insulin Resistance Connection
Understanding Throat and Gastrointestinal Discomfort: When to Seek Help
Throat and gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my recent symptoms. Sometimes I wake up with a bitter taste in my mouth and a feeling of nausea. I also have a slight cough and find myself swallowing excessively for no apparent reason. I recently vi...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If you frequently experience dry mouth and dry tongue, consider consulting an immunologist to check for any autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Throat and Gastrointestinal Discomfort: When to Seek Help
Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Inquiry about Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello, Doctor. Over the past two to three years, I have frequently experienced skin allergies (rashes). When I am back in my hometown (Miaoli), my condition improves significantly during my vacation, but it immediately relapses when I return to ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. For someone like me who experiences long-term allergies that recur, could it be due to environmental factors, stress, or irregular lifestyle? What should I pay attention to or how can I improve? --> All three fact...[Read More] Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
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
Understanding Persistent Inflammation After COVID-19: When to Seek Medical Help
Multiple inflammations Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with COVID-19 on May 24, and it has been over a month now. I have been experiencing persistent gastrointestinal discomfort, and I often feel a dull pain during bowel movements. Additionally, I have a sensation of ongoing inflam...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: The five most common symptoms of MIS-A are fever (96%), hypotension (60%), decreased cardiac function (54%), difficulty breathing or wheezing (52%), and diarrhea (52%). However, various possibilities cannot be ruled out. If you experience any discomfort, it is advisable to...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Inflammation After COVID-19: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding HPV: Testing Options After Partner's Diagnosis
My boyfriend has genital warts? Hello, we are a same-sex couple. My boyfriend previously experienced gastrointestinal discomfort, which led to an examination where warts were found in the anal area, and surgery was arranged. We have had unprotected sexual intercourse, but both of...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. The more accurate name for the cervical cancer vaccine is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. It not only prevents cervical cancer but also has been scientifically proven to prevent cancers related to the genital area, including effective protection against genital warts. ...[Read More] Understanding HPV: Testing Options After Partner's Diagnosis
Understanding Methanol Poisoning: Risks, Symptoms, and Recovery Time
Methanol poisoning inquiry? Good afternoon, doctor. This morning, while using an alcohol lamp, I accidentally sprayed a small amount into some cooled porridge. Although I explained the situation to the person involved immediately, they smelled it and felt it was fine to continue ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, due to the strong toxicity of methanol, it is unlikely that experimental equipment would contain methanol unless it is being sold illegally by counterfeiters. Based on your description, accidental ingestion of a small amount of experimental alcohol should not pose a signif...[Read More] Understanding Methanol Poisoning: Risks, Symptoms, and Recovery Time
Can Abdominal Pain Be Linked to STIs? Understanding the Risks
Is abdominal pain a sign of a sexually transmitted infection? I had an encounter with a female online friend in March of this year. We did not have sexual intercourse; I engaged in digital penetration for about 30 seconds, touched my own genitals, and she performed oral sex on me...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Indeed, some infectious diseases can be transmitted through sexual contact or oral contact (mainly the ones you mentioned), but they would not typically present with abdominal pain lasting six months. Abdominal pain has many differential diagnoses and is likely unrelated t...[Read More] Can Abdominal Pain Be Linked to STIs? Understanding the Risks
Signs of Parasite Infection: Unusual Sensations and Symptoms Explained
Suspecting that you have a parasitic infection? During the Mid-Autumn Festival, I ate undercooked crab roe, and later I felt something moving in my arm, but I did not experience any gastrointestinal discomfort. I would like to ask: 1. When infected with parasites, can one feel so...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, parasitic infections mostly present with gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and so on. What you described is likely not a parasitic infection. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Signs of Parasite Infection: Unusual Sensations and Symptoms Explained
Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Causes and Management Tips
Elevated creatinine levels? Hello Doctor: I had a blood test on July 6, and my creatinine level was 1.2. Prior to the blood draw, I was experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating, gastroesophageal reflux, and irregular bowel movements. I had been taking medicati...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
A single creatinine report does not indicate chronic kidney dysfunction; it is recommended to drink more water and maintain a normal routine for a period of time before retesting. It is advisable to avoid any illnesses or discomfort before the test, as these factors may interfere...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Creatinine Levels: Causes and Management Tips
Struggling with Hypothyroidism: Seeking Effective Treatment Solutions
Hypothyroidism Treatment Issues Hello Doctor, I am a patient with hypothyroidism. I have been undergoing treatment for about three years and have been taking thyroid hormone, but there has been little improvement in my lab values or physical condition. Dietary changes and exercis...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, patients with hypothyroidism who regularly take their medication to keep thyroid hormone levels within the normal range are less likely to experience symptoms of hypothyroidism. Based on your description, it is recommended to first consult with an endoc...[Read More] Struggling with Hypothyroidism: Seeking Effective Treatment Solutions
Should I Get Tested for COVID-19 with Ongoing Stomach Issues?
Re: Persistent Abdominal Bloating Thank you for the doctor's previous response. However, my cold symptoms (such as nasal congestion) have almost completely resolved, and only my stomach issues persist. I visited a clinic today, and the doctor prescribed medication for proble...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is indeed advisable to get tested for COVID-19 for safety reasons, and gastrointestinal symptoms should also be considered as one of the symptoms of COVID-19. Of course, the likelihood of a negative result is reassuring. Based on your subsequent symptoms, it seems you a...[Read More] Should I Get Tested for COVID-19 with Ongoing Stomach Issues?
Managing Thyroid Nodules: When to Pause Medication for Gastrointestinal Issues
Thyroid nodule During a physical examination, a thyroid ultrasound revealed a 1.8 cm nodule on the right side and a 0.4 cm nodule on the left side. A fine needle aspiration biopsy indicated that the nodules are cysts (fluid-filled). The physician has prescribed Eltroxin (levothyr...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
You may consider having a blood test in advance to check for thyroid antibodies. If thyroid antibodies are present, it is advisable to discontinue medication. As for whether the use of thyroid hormone can inhibit the enlargement of thyroid cysts/nodules, this remains uncertain.[Read More] Managing Thyroid Nodules: When to Pause Medication for Gastrointestinal Issues