Understanding Your ANA Test Results: Do They Indicate Lupus?
Is it systemic lupus erythematosus? This is my second follow-up report, and the ANA titer is still 1:640, the same as the first time. All other further examination indices are normal. The doctor said that my two 640 results are quite high, which suggests that I likely have system...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The diagnosis of lupus erythematosus involves not only the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test but also the evaluation of other clinical symptoms and laboratory indicators. In addition to your current test results, you may discuss with your physici...[Read More] Understanding Your ANA Test Results: Do They Indicate Lupus?
Understanding Tongue Bumps: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Issues with the tongue while eating? Hello doctor, last night while I was eating German sausage and pizza, I suddenly felt a bump on my tongue. When I looked in the mirror, I found a protrusion that looked like a bruise on my tongue. After researching online, it seems to be a blo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, this is a small blister caused by microvascular bleeding on the surface of the tongue. It is likely due to accidentally biting your tongue or friction from food. Usually, it does not require special treatment and will disappear in a few days. It does not affect vaccine adm...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Bumps: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Post-Vaccine Medication Guidelines: Can You Use Steroids and Alcohol?
Medication issues after vaccination? Hello, doctor. I just received the BNT vaccine. Can I apply eczema steroids (Betamethasone) and mouth ulcer medication (Mondesil) that contains alcohol after getting the BNT vaccine? Thank you. Also, if I experience severe mouth ulcers after t...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Generally, topical medications are not significantly absorbed by the body, so their effect on the vaccine's efficacy is minimal (however, oral steroids may weaken the vaccine's effectiveness). Many people experience various side effects after vaccination, and mou...[Read More] Post-Vaccine Medication Guidelines: Can You Use Steroids and Alcohol?
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What You Need to Know
Autoimmune diseases Hello Doctor, last year I had a health check-up due to my studies, and since I was on my menstrual period that day, I experienced hematuria. After returning to the hospital for a follow-up, it was confirmed that there were no issues, and the cause of the hemat...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. The following test results may be related to autoimmune diseases, and if necessary, further blood tests can be arranged: C3: 57.7, C4: 10.7, ANA: Dense fine speckled with a titer of 1:160. I'm not sure if your physician has already arranged...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What You Need to Know
Understanding Oral Candidiasis: Risks and Precautions During Pregnancy
Oral candidiasis Hello, doctor. I noticed some mold spots in the sink while rinsing my mouth tonight. If some of it splashed into my mouth and I only spit it out, then rinsed my mouth after a few minutes, is there a risk of developing a Candida infection? I read online that adult...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, there are many molds in the environment, including the presence of Candida. Most molds coexist peacefully with humans and do not cause infections. For example, Candida infections typically occur when the body's immune system is compromised, such as in cases of diabete...[Read More] Understanding Oral Candidiasis: Risks and Precautions During Pregnancy
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Eye Symptoms and Immune System Links
Clinical symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis? Hello, Doctor. I started experiencing dryness and pain in my left eye last year. Last month, I suddenly developed scleral inflammation in my right eye. After seeking medical attention, my condition is currently stable. Recently, I underw...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, dry eyes and scleritis can be manifestations of rheumatic diseases affecting the eyes. If the rheumatoid factor is positive, it is recommended to consult a rheumatologist for differential diagnosis, as rheumatic diseases do not always present initially with joint symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Eye Symptoms and Immune System Links
Why Do I Keep Catching Colds Despite Treating Allergies?
Frequent colds? I have a history of allergic rhinitis, but I also frequently catch colds. For the past couple of months, I have been consistently taking medication to treat my allergic rhinitis. If I don't stay up late and have no habits like smoking, why do I still catch co...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if you frequently catch colds, there are two important factors to consider. First, you often come into contact with patients who have respiratory infections, so it is recommended to wear a mask and wash your hands regularly. It is also advisable to get the flu vaccine ever...[Read More] Why Do I Keep Catching Colds Despite Treating Allergies?
Understanding Albumin Use and Fungal Infections in Elderly Patients
Medication Use / Fungal Infection 1. Human albumin should be administered in situations such as significant hypoalbuminemia, severe burns, liver cirrhosis with ascites, or conditions requiring volume expansion in critically ill patients. 2. It is not typical for a patient to ha...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: 1. Common indications include limb edema or pulmonary edema caused by low albumin, or the use of albumin may also be considered in cases of hypotension. 2. It is quite common to culture many bacteria and fungi from urine and sputum after a patient has been hospitalized for...[Read More] Understanding Albumin Use and Fungal Infections in Elderly Patients
Understanding Stiff and Swollen Finger Joints: Causes and Solutions
Stiffness and swelling in the finger joints? Hello Doctor: Last year in late autumn, I noticed stiffness in my finger joints upon waking up, but it was mild, so I didn't pay much attention to it. Recently, however, the frequency has increased, and almost every day my fingers...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, experiencing stiffness in the finger joints upon waking, pain in the index finger, swelling in the fingers, positive urine occult blood test, and hair loss should not be ignored, but there is no need to panic. Please seek medical evaluation, as there are many potential cau...[Read More] Understanding Stiff and Swollen Finger Joints: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Adult Still's Disease: Symptoms and Immune System Flare-Ups
Immune system dysfunction in adults with Still's disease? Hello Doctor: I have an immune system disorder (the doctor has diagnosed me with suspected "Adult Still's Disease" on the medical certificate). Due to the recent pandemic, I haven't been able to at...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. The inflammation index you mentioned, which is over ten thousand, could possibly refer to the ferritin level, which is an indicator of adult Still's disease and also serves as a reference for disease stability. Given that your levels were o...[Read More] Understanding Adult Still's Disease: Symptoms and Immune System Flare-Ups
Understanding Recurrent Arthritis: Causes, Diagnosis, and Management
Recurrent arthritis (migratory arthritis) Hello, Doctor: For the past six months, I have been experiencing persistent pain in my shoulders and limbs. Initially, I consulted an orthopedic specialist who performed an X-ray but found no issues. The doctor prescribed pain relievers ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is recurrent arthritis considered an autoimmune disease? The joint pain and swelling that I experience intermittently—are they caused by my immune system attacking itself, or are there other factors involved? (The doc...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Arthritis: Causes, Diagnosis, and Management
Understanding Eye Symptoms After Late Nights: What You Need to Know
Questions about issues after staying up late? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you two questions. The first one is that when I looked in the mirror while showering this morning, I noticed some red streaks and a slight yellow tint around the edges of my eyes. I'm concerned ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your photo, your sclera primarily shows blood vessels and is not indicative of jaundice, although it appears slightly cloudy. However, this is not jaundice. Considering the situation you described, it is likely a physiological change caused by staying up late. The...[Read More] Understanding Eye Symptoms After Late Nights: What You Need to Know
Is It Safe for Patients with Vasculitis to Get the AZ Vaccine?
Is it suitable for individuals with vasculitis to receive the AZ vaccine? Individuals with a history of vasculitis, which is an autoimmune disease, may have concerns regarding vaccination. Among those advised against receiving the AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccine are individuals with com...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Currently, the Taiwan Society of Rheumatology has reached a consensus and provided recommendations for patients with autoimmune diseases. Of course, these recommendations will continue to be adjusted over time as more evidence accumulates. In pr...[Read More] Is It Safe for Patients with Vasculitis to Get the AZ Vaccine?
Managing COVID-19 Symptoms: Insights on Treatment and Recovery
Positive rapid test for COVID-19 (continued) Hello Dr. Hong, I am the patient who asked a question yesterday. The PCR results just came out... it is positive for SARS-CoV-2 with RdRp gene: 23.25 and SARS-CoV-2 ORF 1ab: 21.26. Today is the second day, and I continue to take "...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Currently, there are indeed several medications available for use, including for mild cases. However, for high-risk patients, such as those over 65 years of age, monoclonal antibodies can be used for patients with declining oxygen levels. For more severe cases, remdesivir can be ...[Read More] Managing COVID-19 Symptoms: Insights on Treatment and Recovery
Understanding Mild Throat Pain: Tonsil Stones or Something More?
Slight pain in the tonsils? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you about some symptoms I've been experiencing. A few days ago, I felt a slight discomfort on the right side of my throat or tonsil, and later I expelled a yellowish substance, which seemed to relieve the discomf...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the condition you described is likely caused by tonsillitis, which is usually triggered by a cold. The chance of cancer is very low. Additionally, some individuals may experience tonsillitis due to factors such as lack of sleep, stress leading to a weakened immune system, ...[Read More] Understanding Mild Throat Pain: Tonsil Stones or Something More?
Unraveling Mysterious Immune Reactions: Antibiotic Allergies or Autoimmune Disorders?
Is the strange illness experienced personally due to a drug allergy or an autoimmune disorder? Hello, doctor. I have encountered a strange immune reaction while taking medication and would like to ask for your advice. Earlier this year, I was on long-term antibiotics due to a pro...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. I suspect that you may have Reiter's syndrome, also known as reactive arthritis, and I recommend that you consult a rheumatologist at a major hospital. There are several reasons for my suspicion related to this condition, including chronic ...[Read More] Unraveling Mysterious Immune Reactions: Antibiotic Allergies or Autoimmune Disorders?
Understanding Sudden Tongue Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help
Sudden slight bleeding under the tongue? Hello Doctor, I just brushed my teeth and when I stuck out my tongue and moved it, I suddenly felt a burst of fluid coming from underneath. I noticed a slight bleeding near the area of the lingual frenulum or submandibular gland, and it se...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the spraying you mentioned is likely the salivary glands secreting saliva. As for the bleeding part, it is true that if you stay up late, experience high stress, or have a weakened immune system, your gums can easily bleed. Just make sure to get plenty of rest and exercise...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Tongue Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Scalp Folliculitis: Is It a Sign of HIV or Other Conditions?
I would like to inquire about persistent folliculitis on the scalp? I have had scalp inflammation for at least six months. I researched possible symptoms of HIV online, and it seems that folliculitis is a common complication. A few months ago, I had blood tests done at a local me...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Scalp folliculitis can occur in the general population as well. However, if you are concerned about HIV, it is advisable to get tested directly rather than inferring the possibility of HIV based on related symptoms. Severe HIV can lead to vario...[Read More] Understanding Scalp Folliculitis: Is It a Sign of HIV or Other Conditions?
Is Your Immune System Weakening? Tips for Improvement
Is the immune system weakened? How can it be improved? Hello, Doctor Gao: Over the past six months, I have experienced occasional small cuts on my fingers that are difficult to heal, often taking 3-4 weeks (each time a small cut turns into a small area of skin ulceration, but th...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen, thank you for your message. Your symptoms are nonspecific, making it difficult to determine if there is an underlying immune dysfunction. I have a few suggestions as follows: 1. "Occasional small cuts on the fingers that are slow to heal, taking 3-4 weeks&qu...[Read More] Is Your Immune System Weakening? Tips for Improvement
Understanding Recovery from HPV: Insights on Symptoms and Follow-Up Care
Inquiry about disease-related issues? Dr. Hong, I apologize for bothering you. My brother, who is five years older than me, confided in me two years ago that he had genital warts, but he was too afraid to tell our parents (I was still in high school at the time). Based on my unde...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
The recurrence of genital warts is primarily determined by the presence of any lesions on the surface of the genital area, rather than relying on blood tests. Based on your description, it seems that your relative has not experienced any further symptoms in the genital area, whic...[Read More] Understanding Recovery from HPV: Insights on Symptoms and Follow-Up Care