Understanding STD Risks and Prevention After Potential Exposure
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), risks? Hello Dr. Liao, on June 11th, I had sexual intercourse with a sex worker. Initially, there was unprotected manual stimulation, followed by protected intercourse (but due to insufficient rigidity, the condom slipped halfway down, expo...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. The HIV virus is transmitted only through sexual intercourse and sharing needles. 2. You can get tested at any time, but the general result is usually negative; regular testing and safe sexual practices are the most reliable. 3. For general sexually transmitted infections,...[Read More] Understanding STD Risks and Prevention After Potential Exposure
Needle Stick Injuries and Infection Risks in Healthcare Settings
Issues related to needlestick injuries and environmental infections? Because there are HIV-positive individuals in my work environment, and I sometimes come into contact with substances that may contain their bodily fluids, I would like to know if there is a risk of infection if ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. The HIV virus dies within ten minutes outside the human body and is not infectious. 2. The transmission routes of HIV are through unprotected sexual intercourse and sharing needles.[Read More] Needle Stick Injuries and Infection Risks in Healthcare Settings
Understanding STD Testing and Risks After Unprotected Oral Sex
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Testing Hello, doctor. 1. After engaging in high-risk behavior, I went to the hospital for an HIV PCR test and a syphilis test 10 days later, and both results were negative. I only engaged in [unprotected oral sex from a male to a female]. I...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. It is recommended to monitor for at least 3 months to definitively rule out infection. Each individual's constitution varies, so there is no exact timeframe; however, in rare cases, the window period for the virus can extend up to 3 months. 2. Typically, infectiousness is...[Read More] Understanding STD Testing and Risks After Unprotected Oral Sex
Understanding Hand Rash: Possible Causes and Concerns for Travelers
Inquire about hand issues? Hello Doctor, I am currently on a business trip in Indonesia. Three days ago, I suddenly noticed a rash on the palm of my right hand, but it diminished by the evening and was gone the next day. I recall that during those three days, I was frequently usi...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, consider whether there have been any heavy objects or sharp items that may have left marks. 2. Additionally, assess whether the environment is clean and well-ventilated, or if it has not been cleaned for a long time, which could lead to bites from rodents or insects. 3....[Read More] Understanding Hand Rash: Possible Causes and Concerns for Travelers
Concerns Over Raw Okinawan Sausage: Risks of Parasites and Symptoms
Accidental ingestion of "Ryukyu" raw sausage? I ate raw Okinawan sausage and fresh pork while barbecuing in the Ryukyu Islands. It was left at room temperature and labeled as raw food. After doing some research, I found out that Okinawan sausage does not use nitrates fo...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
The chance of contracting pork tapeworm from a single consumption of raw pork is very low. The pork tapeworm does not reproduce in the human body, so unless there is repeated exposure, the likelihood of experiencing symptoms due to the parasite is relatively low. In fact, there a...[Read More] Concerns Over Raw Okinawan Sausage: Risks of Parasites and Symptoms
Understanding Oral Symptoms and HIV Concerns After Unprotected Sex
Oral symptoms raising suspicion for HIV? Hello Doctor: Nine weeks ago, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with a sex worker (two minutes of unprotected vaginal intercourse and three minutes of oral sex performed on her). About three weeks later, I experienced unexplained nasal ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control data, there are three main transmission routes for HIV: (A) Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infection. (B) Bl...[Read More] Understanding Oral Symptoms and HIV Concerns After Unprotected Sex
Understanding HIV Testing: Is There Still a Risk After a Year?
HIV testing issues? Hello doctor, if the blood test is negative three months after the window period, and remains negative after a year, is there still a possibility of a latent period?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, referring to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, the window period is the time after infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) during which the virus's antigens or antibodies are not yet detectable in the blood or bodily fluids. ...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Is There Still a Risk After a Year?
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Is It Appendicitis or Just Muscle Strain?
Please ask your question? Hello, Doctor. I am currently studying high school abroad and would like to ask you a question. After eating today, I lay on my bed and suddenly felt a sharp pain on the right side of my abdomen near the navel. I don't feel it anymore, but I recentl...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
A. What is appendicitis? Appendicitis, medically referred to as acute appendicitis, is an inflammation of the appendix, located in the lower right abdomen. When appendicitis occurs, patients may experience abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and loss of appetite. Common caus...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Is It Appendicitis or Just Muscle Strain?
Understanding PEP: Testing Accuracy and HIV Exposure Concerns
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and Screening Hello, doctor. I have been worried for a long time, and there are various opinions on the internet. I would like to ask you: I had a sexual encounter previously and am concerned whether the condom broke. Within 24 hours, the doctor pr...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. There is a "window period" for HIV infection testing, which is the time after infection when the virus is present but cannot be detected by tests. This window period is approximately 3 to 12 weeks after HIV infection. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is generally reco...[Read More] Understanding PEP: Testing Accuracy and HIV Exposure Concerns
Can Needle Sticks at the Beach Lead to HIV Infection?
Needle puncture issues Doctor, I would like to inquire about something. With summer approaching, we sometimes see syringes and needles at the beach or shore. If I accidentally get pricked or step on one, could this lead to HIV infection? Thank you.
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
The HIV virus is difficult to survive in general environments, but it is still necessary to seek medical attention for blood tests to check for diseases transmitted through blood and bodily fluids.[Read More] Can Needle Sticks at the Beach Lead to HIV Infection?
Understanding HIV: Symptoms, Treatment Duration, and Male Health Concerns
I would like to inquire about HIV/AIDS? What changes can occur in the genital organs of men with HIV? How long does HIV treatment typically take?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. If there are no signs of cancer or sexually transmitted infections, the appearance is similar to that of the general population. 2. Current medical advancements allow for coexistence with the HIV virus, but lifelong medication is required, and one cannot stop taking the medica...[Read More] Understanding HIV: Symptoms, Treatment Duration, and Male Health Concerns
Understanding HIV Test Results: What to Expect and When to Be Notified
HIV testing issues? On June 5th, I had blood tests done at the provincial hospital, and the health record showed the following urine general examination and syphilis test items: - Treponema pallidum antibody test - Bacterial culture identification test (including general bacteri...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
For HIV-related inquiries, please contact the Infectious Diseases Department. If this is regarding health check-up items, please call the Health Management Center or the Laboratory Department.[Read More] Understanding HIV Test Results: What to Expect and When to Be Notified
Understanding HIV Testing: Key Questions and Concerns Addressed
HIV testing issues Hello Doctor, I am #197271. Thank you for your response! I am really anxious and have a few more questions! The two tests conducted on May 29 were both negative (RT-PCR + combo test). 1. Can I generally conclude that I was not infected on May 8? 2. Are the re...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
HIV has a window period that can last 3 to 4 months, so a current negative test result only indicates that there is no detectable HIV virus in the body at this moment. To confirm that one is truly uninfected, follow-up testing is necessary around the 4-month mark. In the case of ...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Key Questions and Concerns Addressed
Understanding Parasite Risks and Health Concerns in Contaminated Water
Regarding parasitic issues? Hello Doctor, my name is Yang, and I am a female. I would like to ask about a parasitic issue. Around 2014, about eight years ago, I operated a clothing store in a wet market, which had a rather dirty environment. I used water that was offered to the E...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
It has been too long since 2014, and even if there was a single exposure to bacteria or parasites at that time, it cannot explain the subsequent symptoms you mentioned. I recommend seeing a nephrologist to investigate the cause of the proteinuria. If you are experiencing recurren...[Read More] Understanding Parasite Risks and Health Concerns in Contaminated Water
Can You Contract HIV from Haircuts? Understanding Risks and Concerns
Medical issues Hello Doctor: I am a male and I would like to ask a question. Some time ago (I can't remember exactly when), I went to a barbershop that specializes in men's haircuts. This barbershop supports diverse sexual orientations, as evidenced by the rainbow flag ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
The HIV virus has a very short survival time outside the body, so unless the clipper has just come into contact with the blood of an HIV-infected person and is immediately used on you, causing a wound or bleeding, there is theoretically a minimal risk of transmission. However, in...[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from Haircuts? Understanding Risks and Concerns
Understanding Parasite and Infection Risks from Snail Contact
Parasitic and Infectious Issues Hello Doctor, I am the questioner from <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/197160">#197160</a>. I tend to feel anxious and nervous, so I would like to confirm the following questions with you: 1. If I handle a snail while we...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. The risk is very low. 2. The risk of transmission from a single contact is actually very minimal; it is advised that if you feel fine, there is no need for special concern. 3. The risk from occasional touching is also low, but it is still recommended to wash your hands aft...[Read More] Understanding Parasite and Infection Risks from Snail Contact
Understanding STD Transmission Risks When Caring for Children
Sexually transmitted infection (STI) transmission issues? Hello, Doctor: 1. I would like to ask if it is possible to transmit a sexually transmitted infection (STI) to my child if I accidentally become infected but have to take care of them at home. 2. For example, if I am in...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are typically transmitted through sexual contact, and the risk of transmission through general contact is low (though it depends on the specific STI in question). 2. No, unless the lesions of the STI come into direct contact with the ch...[Read More] Understanding STD Transmission Risks When Caring for Children
Understanding HIV Testing Reliability After PEP Treatment
HIV testing issues? Hello Doctor: My situation is as follows: I had sexual intercourse with a person from A on May 8 and with a person from B on May 22 (both protected vaginal intercourse and unprotected oral sex). I became very anxious and sought PEP treatment at a clinic on May...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Yes, taking PEP may help suppress the virus, so generally, after a potential exposure, in addition to getting an HIV test as soon as possible, it is recommended to test again at six weeks and three months afterward. By that time, PEP will no longer be in use, making the results m...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing Reliability After PEP Treatment
Understanding Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Recovery Challenges
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy recovery issues? Hello Doctor, my father (59 years old) has been experiencing numbness in his legs since October of last year. By January, his condition deteriorated rapidly from being able to walk to having difficulty walking within just a few week...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
1. Seeking a second opinion, if necessary, is not a waste of time. 2. Some conditions can be cured, while others can only be managed. However, not treating them is not an option, and improvement may take time. 3. If leg swelling cannot be adequately controlled through diet al...[Read More] Understanding Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Recovery Challenges
Preventing Parasite and Infection Risks from Snails: Expert Advice
Parasitic and Infectious Issues Hello, Doctor. 1. If I pick up a snail (likely an African giant snail) from a pile of grass by hand and then wash my hands with soap, will that prevent parasites and bacteria? What is the proper way to handle this situation? 2. If I touch a snai...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Yes. Parasites and bacteria primarily invade through the gastrointestinal tract. If you wash your hands promptly after touching something, you can effectively remove parasites and bacteria, which generally minimizes the risk of infection. 2. If handwashing is thorough, there...[Read More] Preventing Parasite and Infection Risks from Snails: Expert Advice