Can HIV Enter Through a Hand Wound? Understanding Risks After Safe Sex
The possibility of HIV virus entering through a wound on the hand? Hello Dr. Liao, I would like to ask you a question. Three months ago, I engaged in activities in the red-light district in the Netherlands, and I used a condom throughout the entire encounter without any signs of ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question about whether I could be infected with the HIV virus after removing the condom myself following ejaculation, and considering my habit of biting my nails: A: 1. The common transmission routes for HIV are sharing needles and engaging in unprot...[Read More] Can HIV Enter Through a Hand Wound? Understanding Risks After Safe Sex
Can Hepatitis B Carriers Transmit the Virus to Partners Without Antibodies?
Hepatitis B carrier I am a carrier of hepatitis B. If the person I like does not have antibodies, can I transmit the virus to them? I have had tests done before, and the doctor said there were no issues.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. The causes of hepatitis B infection can be divided into vertical and horizontal transmission. The former refers to infants being infected by hepatitis B carrier mothers at birth or during the perinatal period, while the latter includes sexual intercourse, blood transfusions, s...[Read More] Can Hepatitis B Carriers Transmit the Virus to Partners Without Antibodies?
Understanding Diabetes Risk: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
What is the likelihood of developing diabetes? Hello Doctor, Happy New Year! I would like to ask about my fasting blood test results after 12 hours: Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) 78.5, Hemoglobin 24.6, High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) 10.58, Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Your fasting blood test report shows an average red blood cell volume of 78.5, hemoglobin of 24.6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein of 10.58, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) of 7.7, GOT (AST) of 86, GPT (ALT) of 172, alkaline phosphatase of 110, total iron binding capacity of 5...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Risk: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
How Eating Fruits Affects Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels
Timing for Blood Sugar Measurement Hello doctor, I would like to measure my mother's postprandial blood sugar. After she ate dinner, she had two pieces of cantaloupe half an hour later (she started eating at 18:20 and measured her blood sugar at 20:20, which was 181; however...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Measuring blood glucose levels two hours after a meal is certainly influenced by all the food consumed during those two hours. However, it seems that there are no clinical guidelines specifying whether or not one can eat fruit after a meal before measuring blood glucose levels...[Read More] How Eating Fruits Affects Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels
Can Rheumatoid Arthritis Go Undetected? Understanding the Challenges
Is it possible for rheumatoid arthritis to go undetected in tests? Hello, earlier this year my mother (born in 1971, 52 years old) has been experiencing unbearable pain in both hands, especially at night when the pain is particularly severe in her finger joints. Additionally, her...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, Ping Ping; the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis must consider 1. clinical joint symptoms 2. rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibody tests 3. inflammatory markers 4. duration of symptoms 5. imaging studies such as X-rays and ultrasound for evaluation. Joint discomfort can ...[Read More] Can Rheumatoid Arthritis Go Undetected? Understanding the Challenges
Managing Chest Pain After Choking: Symptoms and Solutions
Chest pain Chest pain: I choked on a grain of rice while eating, and now I feel discomfort in my chest rather than my throat. There is a sharp tearing sensation when I cough, and I experience stabbing pain in my chest when lying flat. How should I handle this? Thank you.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
You mentioned experiencing chest pain and a tearing cough after choking on a grain of rice, with an unknown cause. It is recommended that you visit a pulmonology clinic for evaluation; if necessary, some related tests may be required. If you develop a high fever, please go direct...[Read More] Managing Chest Pain After Choking: Symptoms and Solutions
Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination and Blood Transfusion Risks
Hepatitis B vaccine and blood transfusion issues? Having received the hepatitis B vaccine and confirmed the presence of antibodies indicates a strong level of protection against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. However, while vaccination significantly reduces the risk of contra...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. In our country, if the hepatitis B vaccine is administered according to the schedule, it will produce antibodies against the hepatitis B surface antigen, thus providing protection; you are currently in this situation. 2. On the other hand, blood donation centers conduct screen...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination and Blood Transfusion Risks
Understanding ANA 1:160 Homogeneous Pattern and Its Implications
ANA 1:160 homogeneous type Hello, Doctor Gao. My mother has a family history of immune dysfunction, and she herself has experienced immune system irregularities. Eight years ago, she began to notice unexplained joint pain, primarily affecting her right ankle and the joints of her...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, Xiao Yuan. The ANA value of 160 is slightly elevated, which requires further examination. Additionally, since you are experiencing some joint pain symptoms and lymphadenopathy, it is indeed advisable to conduct further tests on your immune function. Please prepare your lab...[Read More] Understanding ANA 1:160 Homogeneous Pattern and Its Implications
Understanding Yellowing of Hands and Fingers: When to See a Doctor
Regarding yellowing of the palms, with a single finger turning particularly yellow and experiencing numbness when exposed to cold? Hello Doctor, I am concerned about my mother's health condition, but I am unsure which medical specialty is appropriate for her symptoms. I apol...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. If there are no liver or gallbladder issues and you frequently consume foods rich in carotenoids, such as papaya and carrots, then carotenoids may be the reason for the yellowing of your hands. 2. Cold weather can cause finger numbness, which may be related to blood cir...[Read More] Understanding Yellowing of Hands and Fingers: When to See a Doctor
Understanding Post-Spin Bike Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Discomfort after cycling on a stationary bike during fitness training? Hello Dr. Hsiao, on October 23rd (Friday), after finishing my meal, I did a sprint cycling workout for about 3-5 minutes at the fitness center in the basement of my school. After that, I felt unwell, my face t...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Engaging in any form of exercise must be gradual to allow the body's various systems to make appropriate adjustments and adaptations. Implementing high-intensity physical training abruptly can be quite dangerous from a medical standpoint. On the other hand, aspects such a...[Read More] Understanding Post-Spin Bike Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Kidney Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Suspected kidney issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you something. Previously, when I drank alcohol, my hands would shake and I would experience acid reflux. Recently, I have developed many small red spots on my lower back. When pressed, nothing comes out. I also feel lik...
Dr. Lin Peifeng Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you visit a hospital for a physician to make a personal assessment in order to provide you with a clear diagnosis and advice. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Understanding Severe Pneumonia and Complications in Elderly Patients
Pneumonia, currently undergoing intubation treatment? Doctor, I would like to ask you: My father, who is 83 years old, went to the emergency room due to back pain, but he has a long history of experiencing shortness of breath without further medical evaluation. He was initially s...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: The patient is still experiencing an infection. It is advisable to discuss the condition and treatment with the attending physician, as I cannot provide any recommendations without observing the patient's clinical situation. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Severe Pneumonia and Complications in Elderly Patients
Understanding Creatinine Levels: Impact of Exercise and Hydration
Creatinine 1.3 My creatinine level from my health check is 1.3. I have been exercising for about 20 years, running over 4.5 kilometers a day, weightlifting with dumbbells (the heaviest I can lift with one hand is 40 pounds, and I can lift with both hands), doing 200 push-ups, and...
Dr. Lin Shunfa Reply:
Dear Mr. Li, Your creatinine level of 1.3 is within the normal range. It is commendable that you have developed a long-term exercise habit. However, exercise and water intake should be within your own tolerance levels. As long as you maintain a regular lifestyle and a balanced ...[Read More] Understanding Creatinine Levels: Impact of Exercise and Hydration
Understanding Diabetic Foot vs. Post-Thrombotic Syndrome: Key Differences
What is diabetic foot? Dear Doctor, I had a deep vein thrombosis in my calf two months ago. A month ago, an ultrasound showed no signs of a clot. However, every day after I wake up, my calf gradually becomes hard and swollen for about two hours. When I lie down for an hour in the...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Common clinical causes of edema include heart failure, cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, venous obstruction, lymphatic disorders, and medication side effects. Other causes may include hypoalbuminemia, parasitic infections, thyroid diseases, pregnancy, and venous insufficiency, am...[Read More] Understanding Diabetic Foot vs. Post-Thrombotic Syndrome: Key Differences
Understanding Autoimmune Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Polyarthritis 1. I have an ASLO index of 247 (or 274?). Is this caused by genetics or an infection? My family has a history of almost all hereditary diseases, including lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, kidney stones, kidney disease, stroke,...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Ms. Yang, I hope this message finds you well. Your questions are somewhat complex, and since I haven't actually seen you, many of my thoughts are merely speculation. It is best for you to discuss these matters with a physician who has examined you in person. Here are m...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Potential Infection Risks for Dental Assistants: What You Need to Know
Stabbed by a needle? As a dental assistant, I have recently experienced several minor accidents, including being pricked by a patient's anesthetic needle, getting sprayed with a small amount of blood, and cutting my foot on a sharp object while disposing of clinic waste, alt...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
In larger hospitals, there is usually a standard operating procedure for needlestick injuries. Generally, it is as follows: 1. Report to the infection control department, and the occupational safety and health office will document the incident and provide the personnel department...[Read More] Potential Infection Risks for Dental Assistants: What You Need to Know
Concerns About Infection Risks After Blood Draw: What You Need to Know
The phlebotomist touches the puncture site? Hello Doctor, today during the employee health check, I had a blood draw. During the process, the nurse touched the insertion site with her left index finger (while the needle was still in place), and she also used her left index finger...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Since I did not witness the actual procedure, I cannot make a definitive judgment. However, I will report your concern to the hospital so that the responsible department can investigate whether there was indeed a situation where gloves were not ...[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks After Blood Draw: What You Need to Know
Which Medical Specialty Should I See for My Symptoms?
Which department should I see for my condition? Hello Dr. Tseng: I have been experiencing frequent episodes of overheating, which I am already very sensitive to. When it gets severe, I have intense headaches and excessive sweating. I have also been dealing with anxiety for two ye...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, user: I recommend that you consult a neurologist for autonomic nervous system testing and thyroid endocrine system evaluation. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Which Medical Specialty Should I See for My Symptoms?
Understanding Fever Duration in Acute HIV Infection: Key Insights
Fever in acute HIV infection? Hello Dr. Liao: In my search of American medical websites, I found a physician describing fever due to acute HIV infection as follows: "Fever due to a new HIV infection lasts at least 1-2 weeks, and acetaminophen (Panadol and other brands) would...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the description of fever due to acute HIV infection: Fever associated with a new HIV infection lasts at least 1-2 weeks, and acetaminophen (Panadol and other brands) would have no effect on it. It is not possible for fever due to a new HIV infection t...[Read More] Understanding Fever Duration in Acute HIV Infection: Key Insights
Assessing HIV Infection Risks After Sexual Encounter: What You Need to Know
Risk of HIV Infection On July 4th of this year, I had sexual relations with a sex worker in Thailand. The encounter involved unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse. During oral sex, she briefly held my glans, seemingly after I released pre-ejaculate fluid, and the...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the relationship between unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse with subsequent symptoms of low-grade fever and headache: A: 1. For unprotected oral sex, it is important to check if the partner has any oral diseases or bleeding. ...[Read More] Assessing HIV Infection Risks After Sexual Encounter: What You Need to Know