Concerns About Infection Risks: Understanding Transmission Routes
Infection risk inquiry? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask two questions. I came to Shanghai with my family, and today while eating, I accidentally drank from a cup that seemed to have some mucus or phlegm in it. I didn't swallow it, but it felt very unpleasant. I would like ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Drinking mucus or saliva is generally destroyed by stomach acid, so it does not pose a significant risk of contracting any specific infectious disease. Of course, some viruses can be transmitted through saliva, so there is still a certain risk of infection. However, most virus...[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks: Understanding Transmission Routes
Concerns About Parasite Infection After Stepping on a Snail
Stepping on a snail raises concerns about parasitic infections? Hello, Doctor. I accidentally stepped on a snail at my doorstep and only realized it after entering the house. I wiped my shoes and the entrance area that day, and I disposed of the shoes two days later. What additio...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
The parasitic infection in snails, particularly caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis, is noteworthy; however, it typically leads to eosinophilic meningitis only when consumed raw and in large quantities. Generally, cooking the snails thoroughly and avoiding raw consumption makes...[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection After Stepping on a Snail
Managing Mycoplasma Infection: Treatment Duration and Medication Guidance
Medication issues related to suspected Mycoplasma infections? Hello Dr. Liao, I started experiencing symptoms of a sore throat, itching, and coughing on March 19 while in mainland China. Due to potential exposure to a Mycoplasma infection, I sought medical attention after retur...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan: 1. The drug of choice for Mycoplasma pneumoniae is not erythromycin, but rather macrolide antibiotics. Alternative medications include fluoroquinolone antibiotics or tetracycline antibiotics. Gener...[Read More] Managing Mycoplasma Infection: Treatment Duration and Medication Guidance
Understanding HIV and HPV Risks: PEP Efficacy and Autoimmune Concerns
HIV infection HPV infection Hello, Doctor. I have a question. After performing oral sex on a woman, I noticed small red spots on my abdomen two days later, which made me very anxious. I quickly went to a clinic and had a blood test for HIV, which came back negative. I started tak...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, let's look at the information about HIV: The HIV virus has three main transmission routes: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluids carries a risk of infec...[Read More] Understanding HIV and HPV Risks: PEP Efficacy and Autoimmune Concerns
Blood Draw Infection Risks: Understanding Safety Protocols in Clinics
Blood draw infection issues? Hello, doctor: (1) Last month, I went to a private laboratory for a blood test. Normally, the procedure is to draw blood first and then pay, but that day I paid first before the blood draw. The technician counted out change for me using seven one-hund...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, it is important to note that the HIV virus can only survive outside the human body for about 10 minutes. Therefore, unless the other person is covered in fresh blood and is in direct contact with your open wound, the risk of infection is very low. If you still have concern...[Read More] Blood Draw Infection Risks: Understanding Safety Protocols in Clinics
Can You Contract HIV Through Masturbation After Contact with Infected Fluids?
Transmission route - masturbation If a person has contact with the blood or semen of an HIV-infected individual on their hands, does not wash their hands, and then engages in masturbation with broken skin on their genitals, is there a risk of HIV infection?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
First, let's review the transmission routes of HIV. There are three main transmission routes for the HIV virus: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected individual, or exchanging other bodily fluids, carri...[Read More] Can You Contract HIV Through Masturbation After Contact with Infected Fluids?
Understanding HPV: Can Cervical and Anal Infections Affect Each Other?
Cervical HPV virus and anal HPV virus? Background: There was a previous incident of unprotected anal intercourse. Later, a cervical HPV test showed an infection with HPV type 58, but it has since been treated and resolved. I would like to ask: Can cervical HPV and anal HPV infect...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the HPV virus is a systemic infection that can cross-infect different areas of the body. Additionally, there is currently no cure for HPV once contracted; treatment typically focuses on visible manifestations such as warts and condylomas. However, the virus can still remai...[Read More] Understanding HPV: Can Cervical and Anal Infections Affect Each Other?
Can I Transmit STDs to My Partner After Unprotected Sex?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) transmission Hello, doctor. I would like to ask, if I had unprotected sex with a sex worker and it has been over two months since then, but I have no symptoms of any sexually transmitted infections (STIs), could I still transmit an STI to my...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Of course, there is still a chance. Safe sexual practices include consistently using condoms, not sharing needles or drugs, and avoiding promiscuity. If you still have questions, you can consult with a nearby medical facility for advice and testing.[Read More] Can I Transmit STDs to My Partner After Unprotected Sex?
Managing Viral Warts and Hemorrhoids: Key Questions Answered
Having viral warts and hemorrhoids? Hello Doctor, about one or two weeks ago, I noticed something on my buttocks and went to see a dermatologist. The doctor said it was a viral wart, which I believe is genital warts. I have undergone one session of cryotherapy and have some quest...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
To encourage men to receive the HPV vaccine, it has been renamed the Papillomavirus vaccine. Generally, adults carry the papillomavirus, but certain strains can lead to cancer or sexually transmitted infections. Therefore, the government encourages both young men and women to get...[Read More] Managing Viral Warts and Hemorrhoids: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Skin Bumps: Are They a Sign of Infection?
Inquiry about arm issues? Hello Doctor: I noticed three small bumps on my arms while showering in the past couple of days. They are a bit itchy, and I scratched the skin on my right arm, while the left arm looks somewhat like acne. I would like to ask if it is possible to contrac...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
In public restrooms, it is advisable to use your own bathroom facilities to avoid skin diseases or other infectious diseases. If skin symptoms persist for an extended period or worsen, it is recommended to visit a nearby medical facility for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Skin Bumps: Are They a Sign of Infection?
Managing Mood Swings and Infections in SLE Patients: A Guide
The SLE patient became manic and developed an abscess on the buttocks after changing medication? Hello Doctor: I am a patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), currently experiencing stage three nephritis and recurrent vasculitis of the skin. My current medications include...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The susceptibility to skin infections is indeed related to the current use of immunosuppressants. You may ask your physician to gradually taper your medication based on your condition. Additionally, it is important to protect your skin from inju...[Read More] Managing Mood Swings and Infections in SLE Patients: A Guide
Can Eating Expired Food Damage Your Liver and Kidneys?
Food issues Hello doctor, I would like to ask if food poisoning can lead to liver and kidney damage, or if it can cause the function of previously healthy liver and kidneys (with normal blood test results) to deteriorate. I accidentally ate an expired Shaqima and experienced gast...
Dr. Zhang Shixin Reply:
Hello Kiki: Bacterial or viral gastroenteritis, when occurring in healthy adults, typically does not have a significant impact on liver or kidney function unless there is a state of shock due to severe dehydration from persistent vomiting and diarrhea, or if a serious infection l...[Read More] Can Eating Expired Food Damage Your Liver and Kidneys?
Health Risks of Mold Exposure in Humid Environments
Does extensive mold growth on walls pose health risks? I live in Keelung, where the humid climate has caused extensive mold growth on the walls of my room. I would like to know if living in such an environment for an extended period and inhaling a large amount of mold spores coul...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, theoretically yes, because inhaling a large amount of mold can indeed lead to allergies, and there is even a risk of infection in individuals with weakened immune systems. It is advisable to address moldy environments.[Read More] Health Risks of Mold Exposure in Humid Environments
Understanding Blood Test Results: Interpreting Anti-HBc and HCV Ab Findings
Blood Test Report Doctor, I have a question. Because a family member has herpes zoster and needs to get an injection, I had blood drawn at National Cheng Kung University. Is it normal for the blood test report to show the following results? Anti-HBc test result: Repeatedly reacti...
Dr. Zhang Shixin Reply:
Hello: A negative HBsAg combined with a positive Anti-HBc may indicate a past infection with the hepatitis B virus; a positive HCV Ab indicates a hepatitis C infection. This preliminary interpretation of the blood test results regarding hepatitis B and C is suggested to be discus...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Interpreting Anti-HBc and HCV Ab Findings
Could Oral Contact with a Massage Therapist Lead to Infection?
Infection concerns? Hello doctor, I visited a massage parlor on March 1st and licked the massage therapist's nipple. I know this is very unhygienic, but at that moment, due to some issues, I was emotionally unstable and acted foolishly. Starting on the night of March 3rd, I ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
In addition to HIV, there are other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or skin diseases that can be transmitted through contact. HIV is primarily spread through unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing of drug injection needles, and vertical transmission from mother to child, ...[Read More] Could Oral Contact with a Massage Therapist Lead to Infection?
Understanding HIV Testing and Symptoms: What You Need to Know
HIV testing issues? On March 3rd, I engaged in high-risk sexual behavior. On March 12th, I began experiencing symptoms similar to the early stages of an acute infection, with a rash resembling herpes appearing on my temples. By March 13th, I also developed rashes on my body, and ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Please refer to the information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). If you encounter any of the above high-risk situations, you can visit a nearby medical facility for consultation and testing, or you may also perform a rapid test on your own.[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing and Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Can Wearing Contaminated Underwear Lead to HIV Infection?
Transmission route (wound) If underwear contaminated with HIV-infected bodily fluids is worn unknowingly, and there is an open wound on the male genitalia, there is a potential risk of HIV transmission if the contaminated underwear comes into contact with the wound.
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
If exposed for more than 10 minutes, the HIV virus will die, so it is important to take good care of wounds and maintain personal hygiene to prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections.[Read More] Can Wearing Contaminated Underwear Lead to HIV Infection?
Understanding Chronic Pyelonephritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks
Chronic pyelonephritis Hello, Doctor: Three years ago, I had acute pyelonephritis (with high fever and severe pain) but did not get hospitalized for intravenous antibiotics; I only took the oral antibiotics prescribed by my doctor for 7 days. During that time, I had irregular fol...
Dr. Zhang Shixin Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen: 1. Chronic pyelonephritis is usually caused by recurrent acute infections. If a child has repeated urinary tract infections along with congenital issues (such as vesicoureteral reflux or renal hypoplasia), they are more likely to develop this condition. 2. A uri...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Pyelonephritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks
Can Drinking Fish Tank Water Cause Parasite Infections in Toddlers?
Can a one-year-old child get a parasitic infection from drinking aquarium water? Hello, doctor. My child accidentally drank water from an outdoor fish tank. Although I pulled her away from the water's surface immediately and rinsed her mouth with tap water, today is the thir...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the likelihood of contracting parasites from a single exposure to contaminated or dirty water is quite low, and most parasites cannot reproduce within the human body. Therefore, even if one ingests one or two parasites, it is unlikely to cause any significant health effect...[Read More] Can Drinking Fish Tank Water Cause Parasite Infections in Toddlers?
Can HIV Infection Lead to Eye Removal? Understanding the Risks
Can HIV infection lead to eye enucleation? Can AIDS lead to eye removal?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Unless cancer or a virus directly invades the interior of the eyeball, enucleation is generally not necessary.[Read More] Can HIV Infection Lead to Eye Removal? Understanding the Risks