Understanding PEP: Effectiveness, Testing, and Oral Exposure Risks
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) Hello Dr. Hong, I would like to ask a few questions. On October 29 and 30, I performed unprotected oral sex for only a brief period of two to three minutes, without ejaculation in the mouth or swallowing prostate fluid. Afterwards, I rinsed my mou...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It should not affect the efficacy of the medication. 2. The accuracy is high; as long as you have not engaged in any unsafe behaviors during this period, it should be reliable. 3. The chance of infection is very low. 4. Yes. 5. It falls into the moderate to high-risk ca...[Read More] Understanding PEP: Effectiveness, Testing, and Oral Exposure Risks
Evaluating Biologics for Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Patient's Dilemma
Should the use of biologic agents be evaluated? Hello, Doctor Gao. My son is 20 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for 3.5 years. It took 1.5 years after the onset of symptoms to confirm the diagnosis and begin formal treatment. The overview of his treat...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1) Although taking two Salazopyrin and two CellCept daily can effectively manage my child's condition, I am concerned about the potential long-term side effects (such as cardiovascular issues or kidney disease) fro...[Read More] Evaluating Biologics for Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Patient's Dilemma
Understanding HIV Testing: Do You Need Further Testing After Negative Results?
HIV issues Hello doctor, I had risky sexual behavior on September 6. I tested negative for antigen and antibodies at 15 days, negative for antibodies at 42 days, negative at 84 days, and negative at 99 days. Do I still need to get tested, and what is the likelihood of a conversio...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, consider two sexually transmitted infections: 1. Syphilis: The window period is one and a half months. If the test is negative after 99 days, there is no cause for concern. 2. HIV: The window period is three to six months. If the test is negative after 99 days, it is recom...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Do You Need Further Testing After Negative Results?
Understanding Antibody Response in Viral Infections: Key Questions Answered
Human Immunity: A Few Questions 1. Doctor, once the human body is infected with a virus, will it definitely produce antibodies? Is it possible for someone to not produce any antibodies at all, such as individuals with congenital immune deficiencies? 2. After a person is infected...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The amount of antibodies is related to the capability of B cells in the body. If the immune system is very weak, it may indeed be unable to produce antibodies. 2. A decrease in antigens can partially indicate a reduction in the virus; however, a decrease in the virus...[Read More] Understanding Antibody Response in Viral Infections: Key Questions Answered
Understanding HIV and STI Risks: Safe Practices and Concerns
Risk of HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Hello doctor, I visited the obstetrics and gynecology department today. Whenever I know an internal examination is needed, I wear disposable underwear. However, today when I threw away the disposable underwear, I accide...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is unlikely to result in contracting HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding HIV and STI Risks: Safe Practices and Concerns
Understanding False Positives in Military HIV Testing: Key Insights
Military service medical examination issues? Hello doctor, I underwent a military physical examination in December, and a month later I was informed that I tested positive for HIV. In January, I immediately purchased an at-home rapid HIV test, which returned a negative result. I ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to visit the infectious disease outpatient department at a medical center for a Combo test or Western blot test to confirm whether there is an actual infection. As for your daily routine, it should not significantly affect the test results. Thank you for ...[Read More] Understanding False Positives in Military HIV Testing: Key Insights
Can Touching Public Trash Cans Lead to Infections? A Doctor's Insight
May I ask the doctor? Hello doctor, I would like to ask if there is a concern about contracting sexually transmitted infections or other diseases from touching the metal parts of public restroom trash cans or garbage bins? (I wash my hands after using the restroom) Thank you.
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if there is no wound caused, there should be no concern for infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can Touching Public Trash Cans Lead to Infections? A Doctor's Insight
Risk of HIV Infection from Skin Breaks During Sexual Contact
Inquiry about HIV infection? If there is a broken skin in the groin area and sexual intercourse occurs with a sex worker, is there a risk of infection if the broken skin comes into contact with vaginal fluids?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding the depth of the wound, deeper lacerations do carry certain risks. If you are unable to confirm the situation, it is advisable to undergo sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Risk of HIV Infection from Skin Breaks During Sexual Contact
Risk of Infection from a Doll's Needle: What You Need to Know
Stabbed by a doll's pin? Today, while unpacking a package that arrived from China, I took out a doll and didn't notice that the pin at the back was open, which pricked me. Upon closer inspection, I found that the wound only scratched the skin and there was no bleeding. ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if a needle has definitely been used on someone else before being used again, tests will be conducted for HIV, syphilis (VDRL or RPR), HBV, and HCV. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Risk of Infection from a Doll's Needle: What You Need to Know
Understanding HIV Testing: Key Questions and Answers for Patients
HIV testing issues? Hello Dr. Hong, thank you for your response. I would like to clarify a few points based on our previous discussion: 1. Is it correct to understand that as long as there is HIV virus present in the body, new antibodies will continuously be produced, maintaini...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Theoretically, the human body will produce corresponding antibodies; however, the quantity and types of antibodies may vary due to the functionality of the immune system and the progression of the disease. 2. If previous tests have been negative but there is a concer...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Key Questions and Answers for Patients
Understanding HIV Antibody Testing: Common Concerns and Clarifications
HIV Antibody Testing Issues Hello, I am someone who has been panicking about HIV testing recently. 1. So even though HIV antibodies may decrease over time, they will not decrease to the point of being undetectable, right? I am mainly worried about a potential missed diagnosis f...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Currently, most hospitals use a combined test for antigens and antibodies, so it can still be detected. 2. If tests are negative after three months of unsafe sexual behavior, the chance of infection is very low. 3. This depends on the sensitivity of each test. 4. C...[Read More] Understanding HIV Antibody Testing: Common Concerns and Clarifications
Common Health Concerns: Allergies, Hygiene, and Urinary Tract Infections
May I ask the doctor? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you a few questions: 1. Are individuals with allergic constitutions more prone to bloating? I often need to walk after meals to aid digestion, and I wonder if this is due to my constitution or a problem with my digestive ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Some people have slower gastrointestinal motility, and taking a short walk after eating foods that are prone to causing bloating can indeed help alleviate bloating issues. 2. Unless exposed to contaminated water, it is unlikely to cause an infection. 3. Yes, holding...[Read More] Common Health Concerns: Allergies, Hygiene, and Urinary Tract Infections
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results After COVID-19 Vaccination
Abnormal blood test results? Hello, Doctor: I received my fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine on November 26, 2022, and I underwent a health check at my company on December 13, 2022. I am unsure if some abnormal values are related to the vaccination. The results are as follows: N...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your values, the main issues are low neutrophils and high lymphocytes. The most common causes are viral infections, such as COVID-19 or influenza. In addition to viral infections, other hematological disorders may also be a possibility. It is recommended to retest...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results After COVID-19 Vaccination
Does Handwashing Before Using the Restroom Reduce Infection Risk?
Does handwashing reduce the risk of infection? Hello doctor, I have severe obsessive-compulsive disorder regarding cleanliness. I would like to ask if washing my hands before using the restroom will reduce the risk of infection. Sometimes my hands are very dirty, as I might pick ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Handwashing can indeed reduce the chances of infection. 2. If hands are washed thoroughly with soap, it should eliminate most pathogens. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Does Handwashing Before Using the Restroom Reduce Infection Risk?
Can Handling Raw Shrimp Lead to Parasite Infections?
Can one contract a parasitic disease? Recently, while handling shrimp (note: the shrimp was raw and had been split open for preparation), I forgot to wash my hands after peeling the shrimp and directly picked up food to eat. Could this lead to a parasitic infection? (I've be...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, most pathogens should be able to be washed away with clean water. If you do not experience any discomfort afterward, it should not be a concern. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can Handling Raw Shrimp Lead to Parasite Infections?
Can Toilet Bugs Cause Infections? Understanding Risks and Precautions
Can it cause an infection? Hello doctor, I have noticed small flying insects around the toilet or on the toilet wall, but I'm not sure what kind of insects they are. Could this pose a risk of infection to my intimate areas or anus? I'm concerned about whether these inse...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the contact with flying insects on the skin does not pose a significant risk of infectious diseases to the human body. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can Toilet Bugs Cause Infections? Understanding Risks and Precautions
Do Small Insects on Private Areas Cause Infection? A Doctor's Insight
May I ask the doctor? Hello Doctor, I am the questioner #191585. I would like to ask if small flying insects coming into contact with the mucous membranes of the genital area or the anus would pose any infection risk? Since children encounter similar flying insects when using res...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, yes, the conditions you mentioned are generally not likely to cause infections. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Do Small Insects on Private Areas Cause Infection? A Doctor's Insight
Understanding Urination Issues: Pain After Bathing and Hygiene Concerns
Urinary problems Hello doctor, recently after taking a shower, I have been feeling a bit of pain in my private area when I go to the bathroom, but it goes away after a while. Could this be due to excessive cleaning or a urinary tract infection? Also, if I wash my hands before usi...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The condition you mentioned could indicate either excessive cleaning of the urethral opening or a urethral infection. A urinalysis may be necessary to differentiate between the two. It is recommended to consult a urologist or a family medicine physician for evaluation...[Read More] Understanding Urination Issues: Pain After Bathing and Hygiene Concerns
Concerns About Infection Risks from Toilet Use: A Medical Perspective
Infection issues? Hello, Doctor. 1. Is there a concern about contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from using a seated toilet? - It is a home toilet that hasn't been used for a while. - I have wiped the toilet seat but did not disinfect it with alcohol. 2. Is...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the two conditions you mentioned should not raise concerns about sexually transmitted infections. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks from Toilet Use: A Medical Perspective
Concerns About Infection Risks from Toilet Use: A Medical Perspective
Infection issues? Hello, Doctor. 1. Is there a concern about contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from using a sitting toilet? - It is a home toilet that hasn't been used for a while. I have wiped the toilet seat, but I did not use alcohol for disinfection. ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the two conditions you mentioned should not raise concerns about sexually transmitted infections. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks from Toilet Use: A Medical Perspective