Managing Appetite and Bloating in Elderly with Chronic Lung Conditions
Elderly individuals may experience bloating and loss of appetite? Hello, doctor. My elderly family member has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and has experienced severe asthma after repeated pneumonia infections (he is on medication and uses an oxygen machine). He ha...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello: 1. The Lockfei you mentioned is likely a probiotic. Aside from a few patients with significantly compromised immune systems who may not be suitable for its use, most patients should not have major issues using it. However, since it is a prescription medication, it should...[Read More] Managing Appetite and Bloating in Elderly with Chronic Lung Conditions
Managing Chronic Lymphadenitis: Tips for Self-Care and Awareness
What should be noted regarding chronic lymphadenitis? Two to three years ago, I had lymphadenitis in my right armpit. Since then, I have experienced intermittent redness, swelling, and tenderness, which have been milder than the initial infection. There are times when I feel comp...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is important to determine whether you have ever had surgery or an injury to your right hand or right chest. Previous injuries or surgeries can indeed lead to the symptoms you are experiencing. If there is no history of such events, we should consider whether your right ...[Read More] Managing Chronic Lymphadenitis: Tips for Self-Care and Awareness
Understanding Immune System Disorders: Insights on Oral Ulcers and Lupus
Immune system Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing mouth ulcers, throat pain, and gum pain since last month, and they haven't improved. A doctor suggested that I see an immunologist. Below are my health check reports: the report from April this year [link] and the immunolo...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Based on the two blood test reports you provided, there are no abnormalities indicated, and the symptoms you described do not have any clear association with systemic lupus erythematosus. Generally speaking, different laboratories may have variations in measurement values ...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Disorders: Insights on Oral Ulcers and Lupus
Is Vasculitis Serious? Understanding Risks and Implications for Young Patients
Is vasculitis serious? I previously experienced frequent lower back pain and visited a rheumatologist who mentioned it was similar to ankylosing spondylitis. Later, due to other health issues, I underwent blood tests again, and the doctor diagnosed me with vasculitis. He mentione...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, it seems that you have a positive result for cold agglutinin IgM (1+), which is abnormal. There are many types of vasculitis, and the severity depends on the symptoms and the extent of organ involvement. It is advisable to seek medical attention for a comprehensive underst...[Read More] Is Vasculitis Serious? Understanding Risks and Implications for Young Patients
Understanding Facial Swelling After Facial Nerve Paralysis: What to Do Next?
During the recovery phase of facial nerve paralysis, swelling of the eyes and face may occur? Hello Doctor, I experienced facial nerve paralysis on the right side of my face on August 3, 2017. At that time, my right eye's vision, hearing, and taste were all affected. Althoug...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. The unilateral lower limb swelling and pain (right leg) should not be related to the facial nerve paralysis on the same side, nor should it be associated with renal dysfunction (as renal dysfunction typically leads to...[Read More] Understanding Facial Swelling After Facial Nerve Paralysis: What to Do Next?
Managing Recurrence of Pleural Effusion: Insights on Immunity and Treatment
How to manage a recurrence of a chronic thoracic condition? Seven years ago, Xiao Min was hospitalized due to a persistent high fever, which led to the discovery of pleural effusion in the thoracic cavity, diagnosed as pulmonary tuberculosis. He was treated and prescribed medicat...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the factors influencing the occurrence of diseases are numerous and typically involve a combination of constitution, environment, personal health care, genetics, and other factors. Not smoking or drinking alcohol, maintaining a regular lifestyle, and consistently engaging ...[Read More] Managing Recurrence of Pleural Effusion: Insights on Immunity and Treatment
Understanding CD4 Counts for Dental Procedures in HIV Patients
Regarding the immune index? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about the immune index CD4. If a patient has HIV, their immune system is expected to be weaker than that of a healthy person. What is the appropriate CD4 count for tooth extraction? Does the level of CD4 affect the he...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. You can refer to the article from CommonHealth magazine at http://www.commonhealth.com.tw/article/article.action?nid=65413 <Do These 5 Things to Prevent Tooth Extraction from Becoming a Disaster> 2. From the article, it is understood that as long as you coo...[Read More] Understanding CD4 Counts for Dental Procedures in HIV Patients
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever: Possible Causes and Concerns
Unexplained fever with persistent low-grade fever? Hello doctor, I had a herpes outbreak on my lips before December 2nd. On December 1st, I accidentally ingested water from a drainage ditch and kitchen waste. From December 2nd to December 14th, I started experiencing fever, with ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, since I cannot see the condition of your blisters, I cannot make a clear assessment. However, based on your description, it is most likely a herpes infection. This is primarily transmitted through contact and should not be directly related to drinking contaminated water; i...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding IgG and IgG4 Abnormalities: Lifelong Medication and Health Implications
IgG: 1750 and IgG4: 208? Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you, but I have some questions. Recently, after several days of staying up late, I have been feeling very fatigued, experiencing dry mouth and reduced saliva. Therefore, I visited an oral surgeon, but they did not ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I will address your questions as follows: 1. You may have IgG4-related disease, which has symptoms similar to Sjögren's syndrome. It may require long-term medication, but there might be possibilities for dose reduction or discontinuation. ...[Read More] Understanding IgG and IgG4 Abnormalities: Lifelong Medication and Health Implications
Swollen Lymph Nodes Without Cold Symptoms: What to Do Next?
Swollen lymph nodes without cold symptoms? Hello Doctor, two weeks ago, I noticed swelling in the lymph nodes on the right side of my jaw, which is painful when pressed, but I do not have any cold symptoms (no cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, or runny nose). I took antibioti...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Painful swollen lymph nodes are usually associated with local infections, including bacterial and viral infections. Some infections may present with mild symptoms, primarily manifesting as lymphadenopathy. Therefore, if you have swollen and pai...[Read More] Swollen Lymph Nodes Without Cold Symptoms: What to Do Next?
Preventing Chickenpox and Shingles in Uncertain Seniors: A Guide
A 70-year-old individual who is uncertain about having had chickenpox should consider the following steps to prevent chickenpox and shingles: 1. **Consult a Healthcare Provider**: Schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional to discuss vaccination options and assess th...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, I. <Regarding uncertainty about having had chickenpox and steps to prevent chickenpox and shingles> A: If you are unsure whether you have had chickenpox, you can visit a medical facility that offers antibody testing for chickenpox and shingles. Most people ma...[Read More] Preventing Chickenpox and Shingles in Uncertain Seniors: A Guide
Understanding Enterococcus Infections: Arthritis, Neuropathy, and More
Enterococcus arthritis neuropathy Hello Dr. Liao: I have seen many doctors without improvement in my condition, so I am here to seek your advice regarding my medical history: Last August, I was diagnosed with prostatitis and took broad-spectrum antibiotics, specifically tetracycl...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, Recently, there have been reports of an increase in cases of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) infections in hospitals in Hong Kong. Once infected, treatment can be very challenging, with a mortality rate as high as 30%. This outbreak has quickly garnered publ...[Read More] Understanding Enterococcus Infections: Arthritis, Neuropathy, and More
Frequent Bacterial Infections: Is It a Sign of Immune System Issues?
Repeated bacterial infections – is it a problem with the immune system? Hello, doctor. In mid-May of this year, I had an acne wound infection that spread inflammation to half of my face within a week. After taking antibiotics for three weeks, I recovered. Shortly after, at the en...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The frequent infections during this period are indeed unusual. It is recommended to consult with an immunologist or a hematologist. The Changhua Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare has an Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Departme...[Read More] Frequent Bacterial Infections: Is It a Sign of Immune System Issues?
Can Warts on Your Boyfriend's Hand Be Transmitted Through Kissing?
Warts on your boyfriend's hand can be contagious. Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can be transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact or by touching surfaces that have been contaminated with Is it possible to transmit infections through kissing a...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question of whether kissing and intimate touching can transmit infections, here is the response: 1. According to the Dermatology Expert Health Network (http://www.drskincare.com.tw/Qa/Detail.aspx?ID=52): A. What are viral warts? Viral warts are les...[Read More] Can Warts on Your Boyfriend's Hand Be Transmitted Through Kissing?
Understanding the Link Between Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis and STDs
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? In patients with Sjögren's syndrome, the occurrence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or gastrointestinal diseases can trigger ocular diseases and arthritis. Since this condition is autoimmune...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Reactive arthritis is related to individual susceptibility, making it easier to develop arthritis following an infection. Some cases of reactive arthritis are associated with sexually transmitted infections (triggered ...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis and STDs
Is Abnormal Blood Sugar with Normal HbA1c a Sign of Diabetes?
Abnormal blood glucose levels with consistently normal glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) may not necessarily indicate diabetes. It is important to consider other factors and conduct further testing to determine the underlying cause of the abnormal blood glucose levels? Hello Doctor, fo...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Huang: 1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. A fasting plasma glucose level of ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for more than 8 hours; b. A 2-hour plasma glucose level of ≥200 mg/dL during an oral glucose tolerance tes...[Read More] Is Abnormal Blood Sugar with Normal HbA1c a Sign of Diabetes?
Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Insights on Autoimmune Thyroiditis and Future Risks
Hyperthyroidism Hello Doctor: This is Lin, who asked you a question on March 28. The results of my blood test at the hospital in mid to late March showed that my FT4 level has risen from 3.07 to 6.57 within one to two months, and my TSH is <0.005. I have started medication. Ad...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Lin: 1. Hashimoto's disease is indeed an autoimmune disorder; its diagnosis requires the examination of specific antibodies or antigen responses, as well as imaging studies. Additionally, it is essential to differentiate it from other thyroid diseases. This means t...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Insights on Autoimmune Thyroiditis and Future Risks
Recurring Hand Swelling and Itching: Possible Causes and Concerns
I have experienced itching and swelling in my palms five times within the past six months, and I am very concerned? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about the swelling of my palms or fingers that has occurred five times in the past six months. Is there something wrong with my b...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Based on your symptoms, it seems like you may be experiencing urticaria or angioedema, but a definitive diagnosis requires a physical examination and a detailed medical history. I recommend taking photos of the swelling and then consulting with ...[Read More] Recurring Hand Swelling and Itching: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Oral Candidiasis: Causes, Symptoms, and HIV Concerns
Oral candidiasis Hello, doctor! In the past week or two, I noticed an oval-shaped white membrane on my lips. After scraping it off, I saw a slightly red sore that didn't hurt. Later, I wasn't sure if I bit it or if something else happened, but it turned into a regular u...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question, "Is it necessary for me to get tested for HIV in my situation?" A: 1. According to the CDC website www.cdc.gov.tw/professional/page.aspx?treeid=7B56E6F932B49B90&nowtreeid=D03CCE3DF521E46A, there are three main routes of HIV tr...[Read More] Understanding Oral Candidiasis: Causes, Symptoms, and HIV Concerns
Can Bacterial Infections from Clothing Cause Breast Cancer?
Is breast cancer caused by bacterial infection? Hello Doctor, here’s the situation: One day in August, while I was helping my family with laundry, I came into contact with some undergarments that were not very clean, specifically the inner side of my 72-year-old grandmother'...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question, "Can breast cancer be caused by bacterial infection?" A: 1. Generally, it does not occur; at most, it may lead to skin/muscle inflammation due to abrasions. 2. Risk factors for breast cancer include family history, diet, and lifesty...[Read More] Can Bacterial Infections from Clothing Cause Breast Cancer?