Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter
What is the likelihood of contracting the HIV virus? Hello Doctor: - I had contact with a sex worker on August 16: unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse. - About 3 to 4 days after the incident, I felt a slight tingling sensation on the glans and noticed white or...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-in...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter
Impact of Delayed Testing After Insulin Injection: What to Expect
Needle stick injury without testing for more than six months? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask if, after more than six months since the injection, a recent blood test can show negative or positive results without prior testing. The injection was done with an insulin needle, and ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, it is essential to identify which patient the needle belongs to and whether they have any bloodborne infectious diseases, such as HBV, HCV, HIV, or syphilis. 2. Since the window period has already passed, testing at this point can determine if there is an infection. 3. ...[Read More] Impact of Delayed Testing After Insulin Injection: What to Expect
Can Hospitalization Shorten Syphilis Treatment Duration?
Can syphilis treatment be expedited through hospitalization? I run a breakfast shop, and sometimes I get so busy that I forget to take my medication. Is it possible to shorten the process by being hospitalized for a week?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Sometimes sexually transmitted infections can be transmitted simultaneously, and you can come for anonymous testing at any time, such as for HIV. 2. There are several treatment methods for syphilis, including a series of injections over three weeks, oral medications, or a si...[Read More] Can Hospitalization Shorten Syphilis Treatment Duration?
Understanding Antibody Results in Dermatomyositis: Implications for Disease Progression
Antibody Issues in Dermatomyositis I was diagnosed with dermatomyositis on November 20, 2023, with a positive result for PL-7 (++) and negative results for all others. At that time, I only experienced muscle weakness, mechanic's hands, and joint rashes, with no other symptom...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The blood test results you received are qualitative tests, which do not provide actual numerical values, so they are not very precise and do not necessarily indicate changes in disease status or worsening of your condition. I suggest not to worr...[Read More] Understanding Antibody Results in Dermatomyositis: Implications for Disease Progression
Are Blood Draw Assist Devices Safe for Reuse? Understanding Infection Risks
Questions about blood collection assistive devices? Hello, doctor! Today I took my wife for a prenatal check-up and noticed that the staff used a blood draw assist device. Upon inquiry, I learned that the device is reusable. Although the needle and the tubing are new, I am concer...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, assistive devices should not come into contact with the needle and should not have any blood residue on them. Therefore, the infection risk they pose should be similar to that of the rubber band tied above the injection site. If there is noticeable blood contamination, the...[Read More] Are Blood Draw Assist Devices Safe for Reuse? Understanding Infection Risks
Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Test Results: Key Insights
Urticaria and Thyroid Testing After catching a cold at the end of February (with symptoms of sore throat and general weakness), I began to develop hives all over my body, particularly around my eyes and neck. I visited a clinic where I was prescribed steroids and received an inje...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is there a connection between urticaria and slightly elevated TSH levels? Do I need to see a rheumatologist for an examination? --> In cases of long-term urticaria, we sometimes check thyroid function. Your TSH is ...[Read More] Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Test Results: Key Insights
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...[Read More] Risk of Hepatitis B Transmission After Accidental Blood Exposure
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...[Read More] Recovery from Marine Vibrio Infection After Fish Sting: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Shared needles Hello doctor, I recently shared a syringe for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the syringe at least an hour after he did. I've seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minute...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used, so it is crucial never to use needles that have been used by others. The so-called rash typically occurs during the secondary stage of syphilis, which happens approximately six weeks to six m...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Shared needles Hello doctor, I recently shared a needle for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the needle at least an hour after he did. I've seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minutes ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used. Therefore, it is crucial not to use needles that have been used by others. The so-called rash is associated with secondary syphilis, which typically occurs approximately six weeks to six mont...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Sharing needles Hello doctor, I recently shared a needle for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the needle at least an hour after he did. I’ve seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minutes to s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used. Even if it’s just for one minute, there is still a risk of infection. Therefore, never use needles that have been used by someone else. The so-called rash is associated with the secondary sta...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Sharing needles Hello Doctor, I recently shared a needle for intravenous injection with an HIV patient. What is the likelihood of infection? I used the needle at least an hour after he did. I've seen various claims online about the virus survival time, ranging from 3 minutes...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, sharing needles can lead to infection regardless of how long they have been used; even if it’s just for one minute, there is still a risk of infection. Therefore, never use needles that have been used by someone else. The so-called rash is associated with the secondary sta...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Sharing Needles: HIV and Syphilis Concerns
Is It Safe for My Diabetic Grandpa to Sleep In? Health Implications Explained
Is it okay for my grandfather with diabetes to sleep until he wakes up naturally, even if that means sleeping until noon or later? Hello Dr. Lee, my grandfather is 80 years old and has been a long-term diabetes patient (with a 40-year history). Two years ago, he had a stroke that...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Regarding sleep issues in the elderly and cerebral circulation problems, it is advisable to consult a neurologist. However, if there is a tendency to wake up late, one should be aware of the possibility of hypoglycemia during sleep. If waking up around noon, it may be necessary t...[Read More] Is It Safe for My Diabetic Grandpa to Sleep In? Health Implications Explained
Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Concerns and Recommendations
Abnormal rheumatoid factor? Hello Doctor, I recently had a health check-up and my RF factor was abnormally high. I am currently under follow-up care (all other tests are normal and there is no inflammation), and I do not have symptoms such as redness, swelling, or pain in my fing...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. Can I undergo aesthetic medical treatments normally? (such as hyaluronic acid injections or radiofrequency therapy.) --> I believe it is fine. 2. Can I practice yoga and engage in exercises that require strengt...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Concerns and Recommendations
Are Clinic Injection Needles Safe? Understanding Sterilization Practices
Clinic injections Hello, I noticed during a previous visit to the dermatology clinic that the injection equipment was not freshly opened; it was pre-packaged and stored in a box. At that time, I didn't think much of it, but later I recalled that such equipment should be open...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, in theory, a legitimate clinic should not reuse needles. You should ensure that the needle is disposed of in front of you after use. As for other instruments, some can indeed be properly sterilized and reused, and as long as they are correctly disinfected, there should be ...[Read More] Are Clinic Injection Needles Safe? Understanding Sterilization Practices
Understanding Unexplained Pain After IV Treatment: Causes and Next Steps
Unexplained pain Hello Dr. Hong: After I finished my IV drip, the area around the vein feels hard and has a foreign body sensation, and it is painful. I would like to know what could be the possible causes of this? If I want to understand this further, which specialty should I co...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems to be phlebitis caused by the injection. Usually, applying a cold compress or using some anti-inflammatory ointment will gradually improve the condition. If the discomfort persists, you may consider consulting a plastic surgeon or a fami...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Pain After IV Treatment: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Injection Complications: Pain and Recovery After IV Medication
Regarding injection leakage? Hello, doctor. A while ago, when I received an injection (not an IV drip, just a regular intravenous injection), the nurse used a machine to administer the medication while I was not present. Before half of the medication was pushed through, my hand s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems to be phlebitis. Some individuals may experience inflammation for a longer duration. I recommend applying a cold compress. In addition to oral pain relievers, you can also purchase anti-inflammatory ointment to apply to the painful area,...[Read More] Understanding Injection Complications: Pain and Recovery After IV Medication
Understanding Antibiotic Dosage: Managing Overuse and Side Effects
Antibiotic dosage Hello, doctor. I was hospitalized for 4 days due to a peritonsillar abscess. During my hospital stay, I received antibiotic injections, and I felt much better upon discharge. The doctor prescribed oral Curran 1000 mg for 7 days, to be taken twice a day, with 2 t...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, whether a medication overdose requires a blood test to check drug levels is indeed a consideration. However, the nausea you mentioned is a common side effect of this antibiotic and can occur even at normal dosages. Experiencing nausea does not necessarily indicate an overd...[Read More] Understanding Antibiotic Dosage: Managing Overuse and Side Effects
Concerns About Infection After Blood Test and Allergic Reaction
Hello, I would like to inquire about infection issues? On the morning of September 3rd, around 10 AM, I had a blood test for a gynecological check-up. In the afternoon, I noticed itching on the back of my hand. I went to the pharmacy, explained the situation, and bought an ointme...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
A. According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infec...[Read More] Concerns About Infection After Blood Test and Allergic Reaction
Concerns About Infection Risks from Vaccination: What Parents Should Know
Infection issues? Yesterday, I took my baby to get the Moderna vaccine. The situation was quite chaotic at the time, and I didn't pay attention to whether the nurse used a new syringe for the injection. If the nurse forgot to change the syringe, is there a chance that my bab...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, currently, vaccinations are administered using disposable needles. According to the standard operating procedures (SOP), once the vaccination is completed, the needle must be discarded, and the next individual will receive a brand new needle. Therefore, there should be no ...[Read More] Concerns About Infection Risks from Vaccination: What Parents Should Know