Understanding Blood Test Results in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Rheumatoid arthritis blood test values I have had rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for three years and have been on biologic therapy for about two years. Since the onset of the disease, my blood test results have shown an ESR between 15-40. Recently, during a follow-up visit, my blood r...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Your abnormal blood test results seem to be more related to the biologic therapy, but generally, they are not a major concern. However, if you are still experiencing multiple joint pains despite receiving biologic treatment, it is important to d...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Understanding Dizziness and Head Injuries: Key Recovery Tips
Dizziness and fainting followed by a head injury? Hello Dr. Hong, my girlfriend is in Spain. A couple of days ago, she suddenly fainted in the kitchen and hit her head. When she went to see a doctor, the doctor requested some physiological response tests, such as whether her eyes...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to monitor for severe headaches or vomiting within the next 48 hours. If either occurs, you should promptly return to the emergency department for evaluation of potential intracranial hemorrhage. If no significant symptoms develop afterward, the likelihoo...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Head Injuries: Key Recovery Tips
Understanding the Connection Between Nasal Congestion and Rapid Heart Rate
Tachycardia and nasal congestion? Since I was diagnosed last year, I have been experiencing a profound sense of nasal congestion. There have been several instances where I felt close to suffocating and had to go to the emergency room. I have undergone numerous internal medicine e...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding the issue of rapid heartbeat, most nasal decongestants, including some cold medications, can have the side effect of increased heart rate. This is something to be aware of. If drug side effects are ruled out, it may be necessary to check for arrhythmias. If arrhy...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Nasal Congestion and Rapid Heart Rate
Should You See a Doctor Again After 9 Days of Positive COVID Test?
Day 9 of diagnosis? Hello, it is now the period when isolation can be lifted, but I am still testing positive on the rapid test and experiencing symptoms such as phlegm and nasal congestion (especially severe at night). I have also been experiencing headaches, dizziness, and naus...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello everyone, many patients are testing negative after about 10 days, so there's no need to worry. If you still have symptoms, you can seek medical attention and get medication. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Should You See a Doctor Again After 9 Days of Positive COVID Test?
Should You Seek Medical Attention for a Head Injury After Fainting?
Head injury Fainting in the bathroom can be concerning, especially if it is uncertain whether it was due to weakness from menstruation or from hot water and poor air circulation leading to oxygen deprivation. Since you hit your forehead and near your temple during the fall, and y...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is important to monitor whether the pain persists for more than 48 hours, becomes increasingly severe, or if vomiting occurs. If the symptoms become more pronounced, it is advisable to seek evaluation from a neurosurgeon or visit the emergency department to assess for p...[Read More] Should You Seek Medical Attention for a Head Injury After Fainting?
Head Pain When Moving: Causes and Effective Solutions
Pain occurs when shaking the head? If shaking your head or moving down the stairs causes pain, this issue has been present for some time. What methods can be used to improve this condition?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, there are indeed many causes of headaches. Based on your description, both tension-type headaches and migraines are possible. If the discomfort persists, I recommend visiting a neurology clinic for a more detailed examination. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Head Pain When Moving: Causes and Effective Solutions
Understanding Parasite Concerns and Blood Test Results in Internal Medicine
Continuation #188061 Suspected Parasites and Blood Test Values Thank you, doctor, for your response. I have a few more questions. In your previous answer regarding point 2, you mentioned that "it could take months to years." Therefore, can we basically rule out that the...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Based on your description, the likelihood of a parasitic infection seems very low. 2. Yes, headaches can indeed be a post-acute sequela of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), but they may also be caused by other factors such as high stress, insufficient sleep, or significan...[Read More] Understanding Parasite Concerns and Blood Test Results in Internal Medicine
Concerns About Parasites and Blood Test Results After Undercooked Meat
Suspected parasitic infection and blood test values? Hello, on October 1st, I consumed a steak that was not cooked to the required doneness (I requested medium, but some parts were rare to medium-rare). I am concerned about parasites (specifically, tapeworms) and have since been ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The pork tapeworm can also be killed by freezing. 2. Each individual's condition varies significantly, ranging from a few months to several years. 3. Based on your clinical symptoms and blood test results, it currently does not appear to be a parasitic infection. T...[Read More] Concerns About Parasites and Blood Test Results After Undercooked Meat
Managing Fever After COVID-19 Diagnosis: Symptoms and Treatment
Fever after diagnosis? In the first three days after diagnosis, I experienced a fever of 38.5°C. After that, my daytime temperature was around 37.2-37.5°C, but as the sun began to set, I felt my temperature rise to 38.5°C, which lasted for about 3-4 hours before it decreased, acc...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. When infected with COVID-19, there may also be infections in other areas, such as the upper respiratory tract, urinary tract, and wound infections. Therefore, please also check for any abnormalities in other areas. 2. Body temperature throughout the day is generally lower in t...[Read More] Managing Fever After COVID-19 Diagnosis: Symptoms and Treatment
Fever After Diagnosis: Understanding Post-Infection Symptoms
Fever after diagnosis? In the first three days after diagnosis, I experienced a fever of 38.5°C. After that, my daytime temperature was around 37.2-37.5°C, but as the sun began to set, I felt my temperature rise to 38.5°C, which lasted for about 3-4 hours before it decreased, acc...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. When infected with COVID-19, there may also be infections in other areas, such as the upper respiratory tract, urinary tract, and wound infections. Therefore, please check for any abnormal signs in other areas as well. 2. Body temperature throughout the day is typically lower ...[Read More] Fever After Diagnosis: Understanding Post-Infection Symptoms
Understanding Autoimmune Disorders: Questions to Ask Your Doctor
Immune system? Hello, Doctor: I previously asked you about issues related to rheumatology and immunology, specifically about skin pain and itching. I believe I may have lupus erythematosus, and the doctors have suggested further monitoring. The patient has been experiencing persi...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is autonomic nervous system dysfunction included in immune system diseases, or should I consult another specialty? --> Autonomic nervous system dysfunction is not related to the immune system, but immune system di...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Disorders: Questions to Ask Your Doctor
Understanding Autoimmune Disorders: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Immune system diseases Hello Doctor, I apologize for the lengthy message. This past March, I experienced a persistent low-grade fever for a month and had blood tests done, which indicated elevated immune system markers suggesting rheumatoid arthritis. I was then referred to a r...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. Should taking quinine prevent fever? I informed you that I had a fever for a while that day! But if I haven't been examined, which department should I consult to find out where the inflammation is? --> Fever ...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Disorders: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Understanding Post-Treatment Reactions to Syphilis: What to Expect
Reactions after syphilis treatment? Hello, Doctor Liao. I went for an anonymous rapid syphilis test on August 13, and on August 18, I was informed that the result was positive for syphilis. On August 19, I made an appointment at the Infectious Disease Department of Pingtung Hospi...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Transmission Methods: 1. Close contact during sexual intercourse and other sexual activities is the primary route of transmission. Direct contact of wounds with secretions, bodily fluids, and other excretions (such as semen, blood, and vaginal secretions) from skin or mucosal les...[Read More] Understanding Post-Treatment Reactions to Syphilis: What to Expect
Understanding Forehead Heat and Headaches: When to Seek Medical Advice
Forehead headache with fever? Hello, Dr. Hong. Since last Sunday (August 21), I've been feeling a warmth on my forehead at times, which I find quite uncomfortable, but my temperature has not shown any fever, peaking at 36.8-36.9°C. Initially, I did not experience any headach...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the main issues are headaches and a sensation of heat in the head, but your body temperature is normal. If you do not have any other specific symptoms, the most likely causes are stress or discomfort due to environmental factors, such as irregula...[Read More] Understanding Forehead Heat and Headaches: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Fever and Symptoms in Gastroenteritis: What You Need to Know
Gastroenteritis with fever Hello Doctor, I started experiencing diarrhea around July 23 after consuming expired milk. I visited a doctor on July 25 and was diagnosed with gastroenteritis. After finishing the medication, I thought I had recovered, so on the following Friday (Jul...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: It is difficult to determine the cause of the fever based on the above description. Some individuals with gastroenteritis may indeed have a prolonged fever, but it is generally uncommon for a fever to last more than a week. If you are still experiencing a fever, it is advi...[Read More] Understanding Fever and Symptoms in Gastroenteritis: What You Need to Know
Understanding Chest Tightness and Weakness After a Head Injury: What to Know
Occasional chest tightness with shaking and deep breathing? Doctor, why do I experience chest tightness, and even before an episode, I get goosebumps, feel a bit dizzy, and have overall weakness when I take deep breaths? I had a car accident in early June 2020 that resulted in a ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If the symptoms occur frequently, it is recommended to visit a cardiologist to check for coronary artery disease or other underlying issues. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness and Weakness After a Head Injury: What to Know
Persistent Dizziness and Headaches: Understanding Possible Causes
Feeling dizzy and experiencing headaches all day? I have oceanic anemia and have been feeling dizzy all day for almost a month. A few days ago, I also experienced very painful headaches, and I feel like my memory has slightly declined. I have little strength in my body and I'...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If your symptoms persist without improvement, please seek medical attention from a neurologist for a thorough examination. If necessary, the physician will arrange for a computed tomography (CT) scan. Thank you for your message![Read More] Persistent Dizziness and Headaches: Understanding Possible Causes
Understanding Dizziness, Nausea, and Weakness: When to Seek Help
Dizziness, nausea, and weakness? Hello Dr. Hong, in the past week, I have been experiencing dizziness, headaches, and nausea (one day it was quite severe). I also feel some weakness in my hands, and I have pain around my glabella and from the right side of my nose to the area aro...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is recommended to first check your blood pressure to see if it is elevated. The higher likelihoods could be due to elevated intraocular pressure, inner ear inflammation, or migraines. It is advisable to first consult an ophthalmologist, especi...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness, Nausea, and Weakness: When to Seek Help
Sudden Rapid Heartbeat and Low Oxygen: Understanding Your Symptoms
Sudden increase in heart rate while sitting, decreased blood oxygen levels, and hand tremors? Hello doctor, after taking a shower tonight, I sat down and suddenly experienced a rapid heartbeat that shot up to over 120 beats per minute. My blood oxygen level dropped from 99 to 93,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, it is likely that the significant temperature changes have activated the sympathetic nervous system, leading to your symptoms. It is advisable to avoid drastic temperature fluctuations and to take care to keep warm after bathing. The rapid heartbeat may...[Read More] Sudden Rapid Heartbeat and Low Oxygen: Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Sudden Fainting: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Sudden fainting? Around 12:20 AM today, my mother (52 years old) was talking before going to the bathroom when she suddenly fainted just as she was about to enter. I heard a noise and rushed to check, finding her collapsed at the doorway. She regained consciousness after about 30...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, it is likely that the alcohol caused vasodilation, leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure, combined with urine production activating the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in a temporary fainting episode. It is recommended that if she drinks alco...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Fainting: Causes and Concerns for Your Health