Overcoming Fear After Unprotected Encounter: A Guide to Testing and Support
extreme fear I had unprotected sex on November 3rd, and in the following days, I repeatedly asked the other person (a sex worker, around forty) if she gets regular check-ups. She advised me not to be so reckless next time. I kept pressing her for answers, and she started to get a...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! The recommendation to wait three months for accurate testing refers to standard HIV screening. If you are very concerned, you might consider going to a medical center for a self-paid HIV PCR test (which detects HIV viral genetic material in the blood, typically costing aro...[Read More] Overcoming Fear After Unprotected Encounter: A Guide to Testing and Support
Understanding HIV and Syphilis Testing: 92 Days After Exposure
May I ask the doctor? 1. If you undergo an HIV rapid test using the Abbott test 92 days after engaging in sexual intercourse and the result is negative, it is generally considered a reliable indication that you are not infected with HIV. However, it is always recommended to consu...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! The window period for HIV varies from person to person. Generally, the duration of the window period can differ based on various testing methods or the individual's health status, such as immune function. Typically, the window period ranges from 3 to 12 weeks. As for ...[Read More] Understanding HIV and Syphilis Testing: 92 Days After Exposure
Can You Contract Hepatitis B or C from an Eye Exam?
Will this lead to a Hepatitis B infection or something similar? Today I went to see an ophthalmologist. After examining the previous patient, the doctor flipped their eyelid without washing their hands and then continued to examine me. At first, they used a cotton swab, but later...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, Hepatitis B and C are primarily transmitted through blood, while HIV is mainly transmitted through sexual contact. Generally, transmission through touching the eyes is unlikely unless the other person's eyes have secretions or blood; otherwise, the risk of transmissio...[Read More] Can You Contract Hepatitis B or C from an Eye Exam?
Concerns About Blood Donation and Infection Risks: A Medical Perspective
Concerns about blood donation? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask, if after donating blood and having my hemoglobin tested, the nurse used a cotton swab to stop the bleeding, but the cotton swab, which was contaminated with my blood, fell onto the table and was then picked up aga...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, HIV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and bodily fluids. According to your description, it would not lead to HIV infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Concerns About Blood Donation and Infection Risks: A Medical Perspective
Understanding Urticaria and Its Possible Link to Rheumatoid Arthritis
Morning stiffness, urticaria, rheumatoid arthritis? Hello Doctor, last Monday night I accidentally ingested shrimp powder, which caused me to develop hives the next day. At that time, I only went to the pharmacy to buy antihistamines, taking one in the morning and evening on Tues...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, Xiaolin. Thank you for your question. I believe your initial concerns are related to urticaria. Some cases of urticaria can have a prolonged duration, starting with widespread symptoms and gradually becoming localized to a few areas, at which point typical urticaria manife...[Read More] Understanding Urticaria and Its Possible Link to Rheumatoid Arthritis
Can You Get HIV from a Cut in the Hospital? Understanding the Risks
Are there any cases of HIV infection from a cut on the hand in a hospital setting? Hello Dr. Lin: During an X-ray at a large hospital, I accidentally cut my finger on the equipment, resulting in slight bleeding. I am concerned about the risk of contracting HIV and other infectiou...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, A-Jie! HIV transmission requires contact with "blood" or "body fluids." Although your wound did bleed, which does pose a risk, if this device does not come into contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected individual, there is actually no chance...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from a Cut in the Hospital? Understanding the Risks
Can You Get HIV from Eye Pressure Tests After an Injured Patient?
Will this lead to an HIV infection? After visiting the ophthalmologist today, I noticed a patient in front of me who had severe eye injuries and hemorrhaging. They were referred from general surgery. After they completed their intraocular pressure measurement, I proceeded to take...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, HIV is primarily transmitted through sexual intercourse or extensive exposure to blood and bodily fluids. The eye pressure examination equipment in ophthalmology does not cause infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Eye Pressure Tests After an Injured Patient?
Risk of HIV and STIs from Unprotected Oral Sex: What You Need to Know
Unprotected oral sex Hello Dr. Hong, this morning I had sexual intercourse with a sex worker. Before penetration, she performed oral sex on me without a condom for a while, and then I used a condom for penetration until ejaculation. During the process, my fingers were inserted in...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the main concern is to check if there are any wounds in your mouth and on your penis. If there are none and you have used condoms correctly, the risk of contracting HIV is indeed low. If you still have concerns, you can consider getting tested for HIV. Thank you for your q...[Read More] Risk of HIV and STIs from Unprotected Oral Sex: What You Need to Know
Understanding HIV Testing: When to Retest After Risky Behavior
HIV screening Hello Doctor, I had an HIV and syphilis test at least four months after my last high-risk sexual encounter (on August 8 of this year), and both tests were negative. However, on the day of the rapid test, the technician used the same gloves without changing them and ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the process of blood drawing is not expected to significantly increase the risk of disease transmission. The primary mode of transmission is still through sexual intercourse. It is advisable to estimate based on the timing of sexual activity. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: When to Retest After Risky Behavior
Could Recent Diarrhea Be a Sign of HIV After Risky Behavior?
Could this type of diarrhea be a symptom of HIV? About a month after engaging in high-risk behavior, I have recently been experiencing frequent loose stools and even diarrhea, although it's not occurring every time. Previously, I would have a bowel movement about once a day,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, diarrhea is not a common early symptom of HIV infection; it usually occurs later in the infection when specific intestinal pathogens may be involved. Based on your description, it seems to be related to food. Additionally, exercise can increase intestinal motility, which i...[Read More] Could Recent Diarrhea Be a Sign of HIV After Risky Behavior?
Assessing Infection Risks: Do You Need Repeat Testing After Potential Exposure?
Infection risk: Is re-examination necessary? On November 9th of last year, I had unprotected oral sex with a sex worker and had vaginal intercourse with a condom twice. However, during the first instance of vaginal intercourse, the condom slipped off after ejaculation and I did n...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, since there was still brief contact, it may be worth considering a retest. If the result is still negative, the likelihood of infection should be low. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Assessing Infection Risks: Do You Need Repeat Testing After Potential Exposure?
Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Droplets? Common Misconceptions Explained
Questions about HIV/AIDS Is it possible for HIV to be transmitted through respiratory droplets landing on my face and then contaminating food that I eat? Today, while dining out, there was a table nearby with individuals who appeared to be gay, and they were coughing. I was uncer...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, HIV is transmitted through contact with blood and bodily fluids and is almost never spread through droplets or food. Based on the situation you described, the risk of contracting HIV is very low. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Droplets? Common Misconceptions Explained
Understanding HIV Testing: When to Get Tested After Safe Practices
HIV Questions~~ Hello doctor, I had unprotected sex on February 14. Three months later, on May 16, I went for anonymous testing and the results were negative. After that, I changed partners and have been having sex, but I always use condoms. Can I go for anonymous testing now wit...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the so-called three-month window period is an average timeframe. Based on your description, if there are any concerns, it would be advisable to consider going for screening. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: When to Get Tested After Safe Practices
Concerns About HIV and Hepatitis B After Unsafe Sexual Encounters
Concerns regarding HIV and Hepatitis B? I have been staying up late until 3 AM since the beginning of the year. Between late February and mid-April, I had several instances of unprotected sexual intercourse with the same person (I am unaware of his medical history; I only know th...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, theoretically, the average window period for HIV is 3 months. If you have not engaged in sexual activity since April, then you should have surpassed the window period. Testing in August would likely yield a negative result, and the chances of infection should be very low. ...[Read More] Concerns About HIV and Hepatitis B After Unsafe Sexual Encounters
Understanding HIV Risks: Safe Practices After Massage and Intercourse
HIV issues I'm not a doctor, but I can provide some general information. If you had a sexual encounter where a condom was used throughout, the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is significantly reduced, especially if the condom was intact and used correctly. How...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, you need to check if the other person's semen has come into contact with your wounds or mucous membranes, such as the oral cavity, the inner anal area, or the penis. If there has been contact, the risk of infection is higher. If you are concerned, it is advisable to g...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks: Safe Practices After Massage and Intercourse
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling in the Groin: Causes and Concerns
Lymphatic issues Hello, Doctor. I have noticed that I have two or three swollen areas in my left and right groin that have persisted for about six months. They are all less than 1 cm, do not hurt when pressed, and are movable. However, I often feel a dull ache in the area where m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, there are many causes of lymphadenopathy. Given your age, it is more likely due to an injury or infection in the leg. We need to confirm if you have experienced any fever, weight loss, or other discomfort. If the swelling persists, you may consider undergoing a lymph node ...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling in the Groin: Causes and Concerns
Understanding HIV Risks and Testing: Your Questions Answered
Questions about HIV/AIDS Hello Dr. Hong, Situation: I had sexual relations with a sex worker (female) on March 30 of this year. We used a condom throughout the process, but I performed oral sex on her vagina. At that time, she was not menstruating and there was no bleeding, but...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, Q1: If the partner has a sexually transmitted infection (STI), including HIV, there is indeed a high risk of transmission through unsafe sexual practices. It is advisable to get tested at a hospital or to undergo anonymous screening if there are any concerns. Q2: The av...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks and Testing: Your Questions Answered
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Your Concerns Addressed
Questions about HIV/AIDS Hello Doctor, about a month ago, I had unprotected oral sex with someone (I don't know if the other person has an STD). During the process, I licked her nipples, and I have a sore in my mouth. Is there a possibility of contracting HIV? Then she perfo...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! The primary transmission route for HIV is through "contact with blood or bodily fluids," with the secretions from sexual organs being the most infectious. Therefore, if your hands come into contact with the secretions of your partner's sexual organs and then...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Your Concerns Addressed
Understanding Dry Mouth and White Coating: Is It a Sign of HIV?
Dry mouth and tongue coating? Symptoms of HIV can vary, but common early signs include flu-like symptoms, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The symptoms you describe, such as dry mouth, white patches on the tongue, and skin rashes that come and go, could be indicative of various ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if proper safety precautions are taken, the chance of contracting HIV is very low. The symptoms you described, such as the tongue and rash, do not resemble typical manifestations of HIV. An increase in white blood cells is also not a typical presentation. It is recommended...[Read More] Understanding Dry Mouth and White Coating: Is It a Sign of HIV?
Can You Get HIV from a Minor Scratch? Understanding the Risks
Will this lead to HIV infection? During checkout, I was distracted and accidentally got scratched on my finger by the cashier's nail, resulting in a minor abrasion (the epidermis is red) without any bleeding. Doctor, if the other person has a virus on their hands, am I at ri...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, unless the other person is bleeding and their blood comes into contact with your wound, the risk of transmission is very low. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can You Get HIV from a Minor Scratch? Understanding the Risks