Persistent Fever for Days: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Having a high fever that has persisted for three to four days without subsiding? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a fever since the first day, with an initial temperature around 38.5 degrees Celsius. I went to see a doctor, who noted that my throat was particularly red. The...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! I apologize for the late response due to the pandemic. First, your situation requires screening to rule out COVID-19, as patients with COVID-19 can present with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and diarrhea. If the screening is negative, the next consideration would be...[Read More] Persistent Fever for Days: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Understanding Low-Grade Fever: When to Seek Medical Attention
Low-grade fever Hello Doctor, I have had a mild cough since around May 20th. On May 28th, I suddenly experienced persistent numbness in my tongue, but the symptoms improved the next day. Starting from May 29th, I measured my temperature with an ear thermometer, which ranged from ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, given the current pandemic situation, it is essential to first rule out the possibility of a COVID-19 infection. I recommend going to the hospital for a COVID-19 test. If the result is negative, you may need to visit the infectious disease outpatient clinic to investigate ...[Read More] Understanding Low-Grade Fever: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Unexplained Elevated Body Temperature: Is It a Fever?
Unexplained elevated body temperature? Hello doctor, my body temperature has been unusually high in the past few days, measuring around 37.8 to 38.0 degrees Celsius with a forehead thermometer. However, I have no symptoms; I am not coughing, I don't have a headache, and impo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, this temperature is indeed on the higher side. It is recommended to measure with another thermometer. If the reading is still the same, it is advisable to visit an infectious disease clinic for further evaluation. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Elevated Body Temperature: Is It a Fever?
Persistent Fever for Three Weeks: What Specialist Should You Consult?
Recurrent fever for three weeks? My sister, who is 25 years old, developed a fever at the end of April and sought medical attention. Initially, she had a sore throat, and the ENT doctor diagnosed her with a cold. After taking medication for three days, her fever did not subside, ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
It sounds most like an autoimmune issue. I recommend consulting a rheumatologist, but many details still need to be assessed in person by your sister. You might also consider seeing an infectious disease specialist for further evaluation regarding the unexplained fever. If it is ...[Read More] Persistent Fever for Three Weeks: What Specialist Should You Consult?
Understanding Scalp Folliculitis: Is It a Sign of HIV or Other Conditions?
I would like to inquire about persistent folliculitis on the scalp? I have had scalp inflammation for at least six months. I researched possible symptoms of HIV online, and it seems that folliculitis is a common complication. A few months ago, I had blood tests done at a local me...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Scalp folliculitis can occur in the general population as well. However, if you are concerned about HIV, it is advisable to get tested directly rather than inferring the possibility of HIV based on related symptoms. Severe HIV can lead to vario...[Read More] Understanding Scalp Folliculitis: Is It a Sign of HIV or Other Conditions?
Concerns After Eating Pork with Tapeworm: When to Seek Medical Advice?
I accidentally ate meat contaminated with pork tapeworm and I'm a bit worried? Tonight, I cooked some pork I bought using an air fryer, and halfway through, I discovered a long pork tapeworm inside. I ended up throwing everything away, but the bowl I used to marinate the raw...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the incubation period for pork tapeworm can vary significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several years. It is recommended to seek medical attention if you have any concerns or discomfort. Additionally, it is advised to cook pork thoroughly before consumption to reduce t...[Read More] Concerns After Eating Pork with Tapeworm: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Sudden Loss of Taste: Possible Causes and Solutions
Loss of taste sensation on the tongue? Hello doctor, starting two days ago, I suddenly lost the ability to taste any food (especially sweet, salty, and sour flavors). However, my sense of smell seems to be mostly normal. Two days ago, I had diarrhea, but since the day before yest...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, loss of smell and taste, as well as diarrhea, should be taken seriously as they may indicate a COVID-19 infection. It is recommended to visit the emergency department or the infectious disease clinic of a major hospital. Please inform them of your symptoms and undergo test...[Read More] Sudden Loss of Taste: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Fever Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
Fever symptoms Hello Dr. Hong: I started experiencing chills and high fever ranging from 38.5 to 40.1 degrees Celsius on February 14. Therefore, I went to the outpatient department for hospitalization on February 17, where I underwent the following tests: blood tests (including c...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is indeed difficult to determine the cause of the fever of unknown origin. There are a few points to consider: First, rheumatological and immunological issues may be a concern, which is likely why your physician has suspected this and prescr...[Read More] Understanding Fever Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
How Soon Can You Test for Parasite Infection After Exposure?
How long after a parasitic infection can it be detected? Hello Doctor, I accidentally ingested what seemed to be undercooked pork slices on March 3rd (3/3). Although they were cooked, they didn't seem fully done, and I couldn't vomit them out in time. Starting the next ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the clinical symptoms of parasitic diseases can vary greatly, ranging from a few days to several years, making it difficult to generalize. However, based on your description, the likelihood of a parasitic infection seems low, and it is more probable that you are experienci...[Read More] How Soon Can You Test for Parasite Infection After Exposure?
Managing Diabetes in HIV Patients: Expert Advice and Insights
Simultaneous diagnosis of HIV and diabetes? Hello Dr. Chen, due to my infection condition, I have hesitated to seek treatment from specialties outside of infectious diseases. However, my hemoglobin A1c has consistently been above 8.5. I am currently taking three different antidia...
Dr. Chen Jianyu Reply:
Hello: The infectious disease department of the hospital also has internal medicine specialty qualifications. Please inform the infectious disease physician to handle it accordingly.[Read More] Managing Diabetes in HIV Patients: Expert Advice and Insights
Risks of Eating Undercooked Pork: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Ingestion of potentially undercooked pork? Hello, doctor. Today at a hot pot restaurant, I accidentally consumed possibly undercooked pork (it had a soft, raw texture, unlike fully cooked pork). Am I at risk of contracting a parasitic infection? If I do get infected, what symptom...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, undercooked pork is commonly associated with pork tapeworms; however, the risk is relatively low in Taiwan. A higher concern is the potential for bacterial growth if the meat is not fresh, which could lead to gastroenteritis. It is advisable to monitor for symptoms such as...[Read More] Risks of Eating Undercooked Pork: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Throat Symptoms
Temperature issues Hello Doctor, I started experiencing a sore throat on December 20th of last year and sought treatment. After finishing the first course of medication, my symptoms changed to a scratchy throat and coughing. I continued to return for follow-up visits and received...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, your body temperature is indeed slightly elevated, especially if it frequently exceeds 37.5°C. It is important to pay attention to this; if there are no specific symptoms of infection, it may be necessary to consider atypical infections or other factors such as rheumatolog...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Throat Symptoms
Understanding Infection Risks: Skin, Cysts, and HPV Transmission
Infection issues 1. Is it possible for water to enter the small opening of a pilonidal sinus while swimming, or for viruses and bacteria to enter the body through this opening due to the lack of skin protection? 2. Regarding an inflamed and swollen cyst located at the coccyx (w...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Pathogens can enter the body through any openings at any time and place, including the small openings you mentioned. However, the human body has an immune system that can eliminate most pathogens, preventing illness. 2. HPV can indeed be transmitted through contact ...[Read More] Understanding Infection Risks: Skin, Cysts, and HPV Transmission
Skin Peeling Concerns: Is It Safe to Wash Hands Normally?
Please provide the content you would like me to translate? Hello Doctor, I consulted you yesterday about the disinfectant issue. The dermatologist said that the skin on my hand will heal gradually, but I forgot to ask this morning if the peeling is considered a minor wound. The d...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Try to use milder, non-irritating soaps to reduce skin irritation. 2. Peeling skin does not lead to infections and does not cause COVID-19 infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Skin Peeling Concerns: Is It Safe to Wash Hands Normally?
Understanding Foot Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Please consult regarding toe issues? Hello, doctor. Yesterday, I stayed up late working on a report and only fell asleep around dawn, waking up after 10 AM. Later, I went out to buy something to eat, and when I returned home, I noticed that my right little toe was painful when I ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Regarding the condition of your foot, based on the photos you provided, it appears to be folliculitis accompanied by cellulitis, which is usually caused by follicular obstruction. It is recommended to maintain cleanliness, and it should gradually improve over time. If...[Read More] Understanding Foot Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Risk of Hepatitis B Transmission from Scratches: What You Should Know
Scratched by a patient with hepatitis B? Hello Doctor, thank you very much for your previous response, and I apologize for bothering you again. I have another question I would like to ask you: If I get scratched by my mother who has hepatitis B (because her nails are quite long a...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Scratches do not transmit Hepatitis B, so there is no need to worry. 2. Living normally with a Hepatitis B patient will not lead to infection. If you are still concerned, you can visit a family medicine or infectious disease clinic to receive the vaccine. Thank you f...[Read More] Risk of Hepatitis B Transmission from Scratches: What You Should Know
Needle Stick Injuries: Risks and What to Do Next
Needlestick injury Hello, I accidentally got a splinter while out and immediately asked the shopkeeper for a sewing needle to remove the wood. I am currently worried about the risk of infection from HIV or Hepatitis B. If I need to get a blood test, which department should I visi...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the chances of contracting HIV or Hepatitis B are very low. If you are still very concerned, you can visit an infectious disease specialist or a family medicine clinic for screening. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Needle Stick Injuries: Risks and What to Do Next
Understanding Needle Stick Injury Testing: Key Infections and Follow-Up
Needle puncture examination items Hello, doctor. Previously, I inquired about the issue of needle stick injuries, and you mentioned that the hospital currently tests for four items: Hepatitis B/C, syphilis, and HIV. I would like to ask the following questions: 1. If all tests a...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Currently, most hospitals conduct a follow-up test after 6 months for insurance purposes. 2. If you are referring to the items listed in Table 1, some diseases are rarely encountered in Taiwan. Certain diseases are not transmitted through blood but rather through oth...[Read More] Understanding Needle Stick Injury Testing: Key Infections and Follow-Up
Can You Get STDs or Other Infections from Toilet Water?
Infectious disease issues If a foot without any wounds accidentally steps into a toilet and is submerged in toilet water, but there are no feces present (as they have already been flushed away), is there a risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or other infect...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if there is no trauma, there should not be any infection issues. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can You Get STDs or Other Infections from Toilet Water?
Understanding Oral Sex Risks: Symptoms and Concerns About HIV
Oral sex with mouth sores? On November 1, I had oral sex without any other sexual activity, but I developed a sore in the middle of my tongue, which did not bleed. On November 3, I experienced tonsillitis and saw a doctor. By November 5, I had recovered. On November 9, I had lary...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: The risk of contracting HIV from a single oral sex encounter is approximately 1 in 10,000, which is generally a very low probability, but of course, it cannot be guaranteed that it is zero. The symptoms you mentioned can indeed be indicative of acute HIV infection, but sim...[Read More] Understanding Oral Sex Risks: Symptoms and Concerns About HIV