Infection, Internal Medicine FAQ

Impact of COVID-19 on Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Clinical Perspective

The relationship between COVID-19 infection and the progression of ankylosing spondylitis? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask: 1) Are there any relevant studies that confirm that a diagnosis of COVID-19 can worsen the condition of patients with ankylosing spondylitis who previous...

Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
There have indeed been reports that COVID-19 infection can lead to instability in autoimmune diseases. However, in most patients, this worsening condition tends to gradually resolve over time. There is no need to worry; you can seek medical advice and assistance from a physician....

Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Blood Exposure

Blood infection Hello Dr. Hong: I apologize for bothering you. Today, when I went to change my sanitary pad, I wrapped the used one and placed it on top of the tissue box. When I was about to throw it away, I thought to myself that I wasn't sure if it was mine, so I careless...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is unlikely to result in an HIV infection, so there is no need for post-exposure prophylaxis at this time. Thank you for your inquiry.

Can Handwashing Prevent Infection After Kicking a Table?

May I ask the doctor? Hello, Doctor. 1. If I accidentally kick a table or drawer with my shoe and then touch the area I kicked, is it safe to use hand soap to wash my hands before using the restroom to avoid infection and feel secure? (I feel that shoes often come into contact wi...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is indeed better to wash your hands. Thank you for your question.

Can Deep Kissing After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Transmit HIV or Syphilis?

Infection issues Hello, doctor. I apologize for bothering you. I would like to ask you a question. It has been about 15 days since I had my wisdom teeth removed, and there is no bleeding or pain at the wound site. If I engage in deep kissing with someone, is there a risk of contr...

Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Infection is only possible if the other person has syphilis or HIV and is irregular in their medication or has not yet been treated. 2. Moreover, each individual's immune system varies, and significant exposure through larger wounds or bleeding is necessary for the possib...

Can I Use Iodine Sitz Baths with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis?

Can iodine-rich sitz baths be used for Hashimoto's thyroiditis? Hello Doctor: I have been suffering from a genital infection for a long time and have seen two doctors without improvement. The gynecologist prescribed a suppository and also recommended a povidone-iodine sitz b...

Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Iodine sitz baths are not expected to affect Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Thank you for your inquiry.

Understanding Food Safety: Handling Raw Meat and Preventing Bacterial Infection

What are the issues related to consuming raw food? Hello, Doctor. 1. If I touch a plate or raw meat, will washing my hands be sufficient to avoid bacteria and infection? 2. If a plate with raw meat is placed on tables or other surfaces, is there a risk of bacteria remaining or ...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Handwashing is the most effective way to prevent infections. 2. Being separated by a plate does not prevent infection. 3. Any area that comes into contact with raw food may harbor bacteria. 4. Areas that come into contact with raw food should be cleaned, and hands shoul...

Concerns About Parasites and Bacteria in Contaminated Drinkware

Parasites - Bacteria Recently, I started using a long-unused insulated cup. Before using it, I did a simple rinse. After using it for 2-3 days, I discovered several small cockroaches inside the cup, which had also gotten into my drink, and I may have consumed it. I would like to ...

Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Cockroaches in Taiwan generally do not specifically transmit parasites. If you accidentally ingest a small cockroach or consume something contaminated by cockroaches, it is usually bacterial infections that are the main concern. However, the stomach's gastric acid kil...

Can Handwashing Prevent Infection After Kicking Furniture?

May I ask the doctor? Hello, Doctor. 1. If I accidentally kick a table or drawer with my shoe and then touch the area I kicked, can washing my hands with soap before using the restroom help prevent infection and allow me to feel safe using the restroom? (I feel that shoes often...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, simply washing your hands thoroughly can prevent infections. Thank you for your question.

Does COVID-19 Worsen Conditions in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Will a COVID-19 infection worsen the condition of patients with ankylosing spondylitis who previously had their disease under control? Hello, Doctor Gao. I would like to ask: 1) Are there any relevant studies that confirm that a diagnosis of COVID-19 can worsen the condition of p...

Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Are there any relevant studies confirming that COVID-19 infection can worsen the condition of patients with ankylosing spondylitis who previously had their disease under control? Or have you observed in your clinic t...

Is Eating Undercooked Pork Risky for Parasite Infections?

Is there a risk of parasitic infection from consuming raw pork that leads to diarrhea? Hello doctor, last weekend I suspect I ate undercooked pork (purchased from a traditional market) and experienced diarrhea that night. Besides the diarrhea, I haven't had any other abnorma...

Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: Consuming undercooked food can lead to parasitic infections and may also result in norovirus infection, causing diarrhea. Therefore, it is recommended that if you experience any discomfort, please seek medical attention at a hospital. Thank you for your message!

Is It Possible to Still Be HIV Infected After a Year?

Is it still possible to be infected with HIV? A year ago, I had unprotected oral sex with a woman. Afterward, I was worried about HIV infection, so I went to Cheng Kung University for a blood test at the tenth week. During the follow-up appointment, the doctor said everything was...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the chance of infection is indeed very low. If you are still very concerned, you may consider getting retested. Thank you for your question.

Understanding Food Safety: Handling Raw Meat and Preventing Bacterial Infections

Could you please clarify your question regarding raw food issues? Hello Doctor, 1. Is washing hands sufficient to avoid bacteria and infections after touching a plate or raw meat? 2. If a plate with raw meat is placed on tables or other surfaces, is there a risk of bacteria re...

Common Health Concerns: Food Safety, Skin Issues, and Child Hygiene

Please consult a doctor? Hello, Doctor. 1. If a bag containing food is placed on the footrest of a motorcycle, will the food inside the bag be contaminated with bacteria or be unclean? I'm concerned because shoes are often placed on the footrest, so I'm worried about ...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The main concern is the spoilage of food that has been stored for too long. As long as it is sealed properly, the location should not significantly affect it. 2. Hello, this is likely due to low temperatures causing skin cracking. I recommend applying some moisturiz...

Do You Need to Clean Your Motorcycle After Hitting an Animal?

Is special cleaning necessary? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask: 1. If I am unsure whether my motorcycle has run over an animal carcass or dirty substances, is there a risk of diseases or bacteria on the area where my foot has touched the motorcycle tire? 2. If I am certain that...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned should not lead to an infection as long as you wash your hands frequently and avoid scratching your skin. Thank you for your question.

Risk of Hepatitis B Transmission After Accidental Blood Exposure

Hepatitis B transmission issues? Hello, doctor: I have received the hepatitis B vaccine and have tested positive for antibodies (surface antibody 81, core antibody 0.10). A few days ago, while changing the dressing for an uncle with liver cirrhosis at the hospital, I accidentally...

Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/Page/jlS2jBHpodI34ATlKUy3oQ): (1) Mode of Transmission: Hepatitis B surface antigen can be found in body fluids and secretions, but only blood, semen, and vaginal secretions are inf...

Can You Get Infected from Using a Public Toilet?

Will I get any diseases? Hello, doctor. I am a male. Yesterday, I had a sudden urge to defecate and rushed into the restroom. The toilet was a seated type, and I noticed that there seemed to be urine from someone else in the bowl. Because I was in a hurry, I didn’t flush before u...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that your concern about potential infection from contact with urine or dirty water is not warranted. You don't need to worry. Thank you for your question.

Recovery from Marine Vibrio Infection After Fish Sting: A Patient's Journey

I am currently abroad and would like to inquire about the recovery situation for Vibrio parahaemolyticus infections? Hello Doctor, I am currently in Oman (as of February 15). On February 11 at 3 PM, while diving to catch fish, I accidentally got stung on the back of my hand by a ...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the antibiotic you were prescribed is a first-generation antibiotic for general cellulitis. However, based on your images, it does appear to have improved. As for the pain or pigmentation changes, these are likely residual symptoms of cellulitis. Please be cautious and che...

Concerns About Health Risks from Using a Public Toilet

Will I get any diseases? Hello, doctor. I am a male. Yesterday, I had a sudden urge to defecate and rushed into the restroom. The toilet was a seated type, and I noticed there seemed to be urine from the previous user in the bowl. Because I was in a hurry, I didn't flush bef...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned should not lead to any special infections. Thank you for your inquiry.

Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Key Questions Answered

Abnormal blood test results: related questions? Hello Doctor, I am #192661. I apologize for bothering you again! I may not have made it clear in my previous message; the sequence should be as follows: - 2022/6 Mono 5.4 - 2022/8 Mono 6.2 - 2022/10 Mono 9.2 - 2023/2 Mono 11.4 ...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, since your other indices are normal, the likelihood of a hematological issue is very low. An increase in monocytes is just one possible manifestation of leukemia; clinically, there is no specific threshold for monocyte levels that defines leukemia. However, if your white b...

Concerns About Infection Risks from Handling Raw Foods and Utensils

Is there a concern for infection? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask: 1. When washing utensils that have come into contact with raw egg, is there a concern for bacteria or infection? (I have a small cut on my hand, and although I used hand soap to wash, I'm not sure if it ...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the two situations you mentioned should not lead to infection as long as proper hand hygiene is practiced. Thank you for your question.

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