Understanding Chickenpox Antibodies: What Your Test Results Mean for Pregnancy
Varicella antibodies I had a varicella antibody test: CHICKEN POX IgG, with a result of 1175. The normal reference value is (-)<200 mIU/ml. The lab technician said I have antibodies, but I want to confirm whether I truly have antibodies because I am planning to get pregnant.
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. First, ask yourself or your family members if you have ever had chickenpox. If you have had it, there is no need to worry about transmitting it to the newborn during the perinatal period. If you have not had it, it indicates that you have recently received the ...[Read More] Understanding Chickenpox Antibodies: What Your Test Results Mean for Pregnancy
Understanding the Risks of Black Fly Bites: A Patient's Journey
Bite from a black fly? Hello Dr. Wang: My medical issue began as follows, and I hope you can help me. Thank you in advance! Many years ago, while camping by a stream near Pinglin, Taipei, I was bitten by a black fly (similar to a housefly). The bite felt like a knife cut and bled...
Dr. Wang Weijie Reply:
Hello: I recommend that you consult an infectious disease specialist for diagnosis and treatment. Sincerely, Dr. Wang Wei-Jie, Internal Medicine.[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Black Fly Bites: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Unusual Lumps Under the Armpit: Causes and Treatment
Abnormal phenomena in the axillary region..? My wife is currently 32 years old. Recently, she has noticed a lump or lymph node-like swelling under the skin, with slight tenderness on both sides. The pain disappeared after one day, and the swelling on the left side resolved after ...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Swollen axillary lymph nodes may be due to infection, tumors, or other less common causes. If there are painful axillary lymph nodes, it is advisable to consult an infectious disease specialist first.[Read More] Understanding Unusual Lumps Under the Armpit: Causes and Treatment
Understanding Low Neutrophils and High Eosinophils: What It Means for Your Health
Low neutrophil count and high eosinophil count? Hello, I recently had a health check-up and the results showed a white blood cell count of 5.52 (normal), neutrophils at 43.50% (normal range: 45.0-75.0%, slightly low), and eosinophils at 6.00% (normal range: >5.0%, slightly hig...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hello, Xiao Liang: The white blood cell count is 552/cumm with slightly low neutrophils and a slight increase in eosinophils. There is a possibility of a viral infection, so please follow up with the hematology or infectious disease department.[Read More] Understanding Low Neutrophils and High Eosinophils: What It Means for Your Health
Understanding Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Medical Attention for Concerns
My lymph nodes? Hello doctor, a while ago I felt a lump in my throat when swallowing saliva, so I went to see an otolaryngologist. I mentioned that I felt a movable lymph node on the left side of my neck, and the doctor said it was nothing serious. The swallowing issue was attrib...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Systemic lymphadenopathy can initially be evaluated by a hematologist-oncologist or an infectious disease specialist.[Read More] Understanding Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Medical Attention for Concerns
Understanding Lymphadenopathy: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Lymphadenopathy Hello doctor, about three months ago, I noticed a line of swollen lymph nodes on the right side of my neck. When I visited an ENT specialist, the doctor checked for nasopharyngeal cancer and said it was not the case. He mentioned that it was caused by a viral infe...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
In principle, lymphadenopathy tends to resolve on its own, and the likelihood of cancer is relatively low. The possibility of a painful infection is greater; however, this is not absolute. You may consider consulting an oncologist or an infectious disease specialist for further e...[Read More] Understanding Lymphadenopathy: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Unintentional Weight Loss: Tips for Healthy Weight Gain
Too thin? I have a question: I am 24 years old, 164.5 cm tall, and weigh 45 kg. My weight has consistently remained at 45 kg, and I am unsure why I am not gaining weight. Is there a possibility of an underlying condition? What can I do to gain weight?
Dr. Zheng Shuxing Reply:
Mr. Fan weighs 45 kg and is 164.5 cm tall, resulting in a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 16.7, which is indeed considered underweight (the minimum is 18). Therefore, it is recommended that you consume an additional 300-500 calories daily. It is also important to understand if there is ...[Read More] Understanding Unintentional Weight Loss: Tips for Healthy Weight Gain
Unexplained Fever: When to Seek Medical Attention for Your Symptoms
Fever of unknown origin (FUO) Hello, I would like to ask a question. Recently, I have been experiencing unexplained heat in my head and a feeling of internal heat in my body. I have researched various related materials, but some indicate that it is not serious, while others sugge...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
The symptoms you described involve several organ systems, including the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory system, skin, and eyes. Therefore, it is more likely to be caused by a systemic disease, such as an autoimmune disorder or infection. You should first determine if you have...[Read More] Unexplained Fever: When to Seek Medical Attention for Your Symptoms
Understanding Weakness in Hands and Feet: Causes and Solutions
Weakness in the limbs? Hello, I have been troubled by a long-standing issue where my hands and feet often feel weak. Sometimes, I even struggle to lift my hands to brush my teeth, and when I walk up stairs, it can get so severe that I end up kneeling down. I have low blood pressu...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello, in response to your question. The complaint of "weakness in the limbs" is common in clinical practice; however, due to the subjective nature of the experience, which varies from person to person, and the multitude of potential causes that lack specificity, it can...[Read More] Understanding Weakness in Hands and Feet: Causes and Solutions
Can Routine Blood Tests Detect STDs Like HIV?
Blood test? Hello, Doctor: I had a boyfriend three years ago (we broke up three years ago), and he was my first boyfriend. After we broke up, I found out that he had a rather promiscuous sex life, having been with several partners. I'm very worried that he might have some in...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing Reply:
If the health check report contains the terms HIV/AIDS or the Chinese description of AIDS or Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) syndrome, it indicates that an HIV test has been conducted. If it is unclear whether the above tests were performed, it is recommended to have another b...[Read More] Can Routine Blood Tests Detect STDs Like HIV?
How to Test for Immune System Disorders: A Guide for Patients
Regarding the immune system! Hello Doctor: I would like to inquire about how to check for abnormalities in the immune system. Over the past two years, my health has deteriorated significantly, and I have become very susceptible to infections. I have contracted mycoplasma pneumoni...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it seems that your immune system is indeed weaker. If you are experiencing unexplained fevers above 38 degrees Celsius, you should see an infectious disease specialist as soon as possible to determine the cause. There are many tests for immune fu...[Read More] How to Test for Immune System Disorders: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Septic Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Care Tips
Septic arthritis Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a question. My father recently injured his knee in a car accident. He had some swelling initially, but after a few days, the injury seemed to heal, so we didn't pay much attention to it. However, starting yesterday, the swe...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing Reply:
Hello, Ms. Chou. Septic arthritis is an infection of the joint cavity caused by pathogens. Typically, after a physician suspects septic arthritis, a joint aspiration procedure is performed. The synovial fluid obtained is then tested and cultured for 2-3 days to confirm the diagno...[Read More] Understanding Septic Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Care Tips
Understanding Specific Inflammation: Definition and Implications in Internal Medicine
What is "specific inflammation"? What is meant by "specific inflammation"?
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, I am not very familiar with "specific inflammation." Could you provide the English medical terminology for reference, and I would like to consult an infectious disease physician about it?[Read More] Understanding Specific Inflammation: Definition and Implications in Internal Medicine
Understanding Tongue Abnormalities: What Your Symptoms Might Mean
Abnormalities of the tongue I hadn't paid much attention to the appearance of my tongue before, but today when I looked in the mirror, I suddenly noticed a small circle on the left side of my tongue. The outer edge has some white material, and there is no pain or taste. The ...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing Reply:
Hello: Please seek dental care for accurate treatment and diagnosis, as this description cannot lead to a direct diagnosis. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Shu-Hsing, Department of Infectious Diseases, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Tongue Abnormalities: What Your Symptoms Might Mean
Understanding Toxic Signs: What Do They Indicate in Internal Medicine?
What is "toxic sign"? What is a "toxic sign"? Does it refer to changes in appearance? Thank you.
Dr. Zheng Shuxing Reply:
Hello: This is a brief description of the patient's infectious disease, indicating whether the course is "severe" or "rapid." The patient exhibits toxic signs, meaning they are experiencing acute discomfort, high fever, chills, tachycardia, tachypnea, and...[Read More] Understanding Toxic Signs: What Do They Indicate in Internal Medicine?
Understanding Your Symptoms: Possible Immune System Issues Explained
What disease is this? Hello Dr. Tseng, I currently have symptoms that suggest a cold, but after being diagnosed and having blood tests done by an otolaryngologist, it appears to be an issue with my immune system. I have swelling in the area under my jaw and neck that is painful w...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello: Swelling and tenderness in the area below the ear and neck, along with fever, are most likely indicative of an infection combined with lymphadenopathy. This is less likely related to an allergic condition. It is recommended to visit an infectious disease outpatient clinic....[Read More] Understanding Your Symptoms: Possible Immune System Issues Explained
Understanding Unusual Head Sensations: Causes and When to Seek Help
Feeling strange in the head? Dr. Lu: Hello! I've been feeling strange in my head these past few days. I experience a sharp pain in the back of my head when walking or moving my head, and I also have a slight fever. Additionally, sometimes my right knee hurts when I walk. Wha...
Dr. Lü Yuansan Reply:
Hello: The phenomenon you described should first rule out autoimmune disorders or other infectious diseases. It is recommended that you promptly visit a medium to large hospital to seek care from the Department of Immunology and Rheumatology or Infectious Diseases for more detail...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Head Sensations: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding HIV Risks: Lesbian vs. Gay Relationships and Safe Practices
About HIV/AIDS Hello, doctor: I would like to ask you some questions regarding HIV. I have heard that the risk of HIV infection is lower in lesbian women compared to gay men, but it is advised not to have multiple sexual partners. This must refer to not having multiple partners a...
Dr. Zheng Shuxing Reply:
Hello, I understand that your concern is whether lesbian women are at risk of contracting HIV. In Taiwan, there are nearly 400 female HIV-positive individuals, most of whom were infected by their husbands or through sex work. Lesbians are not considered a high-risk group; however...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks: Lesbian vs. Gay Relationships and Safe Practices
Chronic Back Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Relief
Chronic back pain Hello, I would like to describe my symptoms and kindly ask for your assistance. Thank you! 1. I have been experiencing chronic back pain for at least a year. During severe episodes, I am unable to lie down for long periods, and sleeping for more than seven hour...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello! An ANA titer of 1:320, along with joint redness and swelling, fatigue, and even fever, suggests the need to consider connective tissue diseases, particularly lupus erythematosus. However, based on the information provided by the online user, a definitive diagnosis cannot b...[Read More] Chronic Back Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Relief
Managing Lower Back Pain After Kidney Stone and Infection
Low back pain Hello, I had kidney stones 5 years ago. On September 29, 2003, I had an outpatient visit at a hospital in Taipei due to persistent pain in the lower right back. There were no stones found, but there was inflammation and infection. What should I do about this? Thank ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. Urinary tract stones can cause lower back pain, hematuria, or associated infections; in severe cases, they can lead to hydronephrosis or renal dysfunction. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a urologist for examination and treatment if ...[Read More] Managing Lower Back Pain After Kidney Stone and Infection