Understanding ANA Test Results: Eczema and Lupus Family History
Inquiry about ANA report? Hello, doctor. Three months ago, I started experiencing a significant rash on my lower back and abdomen. I have seen dermatologists at three different hospitals, and it was ultimately diagnosed as eczema due to a family history of lupus erythematosus on ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
After obtaining a result of 1:80(+) from the test, a direct follow-up test at 1:160 will be conducted. If the 1:160 result is negative, the report will be issued as 1:80. Generally, a result of 1:80 is not considered problematic. It is recommended to consult a rheumatologist for ...[Read More] Understanding ANA Test Results: Eczema and Lupus Family History
Can You Drink Alcohol While Undergoing Treatment for Polymyositis?
Is it safe to consume alcohol during the treatment of polymyositis? Hello, doctor. I am currently being treated for polymyositis with the following medications: =================================== * Azathioprine 50 mg (Azaprine) - one tablet per day * Donisone - four tablets p...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Your current dosage of steroids is still high, so it is advisable to avoid alcohol for now. Once your steroid dosage is reduced to two pills or less per day, please discuss it with your physician. This is from the Allergy, Immunology, and Rheuma...[Read More] Can You Drink Alcohol While Undergoing Treatment for Polymyositis?
Understanding HIV Infection Risks in Medical Settings
Risk of HIV Infection I went to get an injection previously, and the nurse placed an alcohol swab (which was almost dry) and the needle on a metal tray to administer the shot. After the injection, she used that same swab to apply pressure to the injection site. Upon reflection, I...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
HIV 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 infection. 2. Blood transmission: (1) Receiving or coming into con...[Read More] Understanding HIV Infection Risks in Medical Settings
Chronic Lower Back Pain Without Diagnosis: What Are Your Options?
If you have been experiencing lower back pain for more than three months without a clear diagnosis, what should you do? Hello, Doctor Wu! I am here to inquire about a family member who is a 47-year-old male, working as a night shift operator for 25 years (his job does not require...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
It is recommended to see a large hospital's Immunology and Rheumatology department or Orthopedics. Wishing you well.[Read More] Chronic Lower Back Pain Without Diagnosis: What Are Your Options?
Understanding Human T-Lymphotropic Virus: What Your Positive Test Means
Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) Hello doctor, I have been consistently donating blood and have done so 12 times. The reports for the first 11 times were normal, but this time the blood donation report tested positive for Human T-Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV). My 11th donation was i...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. What is a "Human T-lymphotropic virus" (HTLV) carrier? Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV), primarily classified into HTLV-I and HTLV-II, is screened for antibodies at blood donation centers using enzyme immunoassays. Individuals who test positive for HTLV antibodies t...[Read More] Understanding Human T-Lymphotropic Virus: What Your Positive Test Means
Understanding Blood Sugar Spikes After Pain Management in Diabetics
Factors Affecting Blood Glucose Levels I would like to consult a doctor. My mother has been experiencing lower back pain and has seen an orthopedic doctor. She received an injection and is taking muscle relaxants. Since my mother has diabetes, her blood sugar levels are regularly...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Pain can cause an increase in blood sugar levels, and certain injections, such as steroids, can also raise blood sugar levels. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Spikes After Pain Management in Diabetics
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?
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
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
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
Understanding Post-Treatment Reactions to Syphilis: What to Expect
Reactions after syphilis treatment? Hello, Doctor Liao. I went for an anonymous rapid syphilis test on August 13, and on August 18, I was informed that the result was positive for syphilis. On August 19, I made an appointment at the Infectious Disease Department of Pingtung Hospi...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Transmission Methods: 1. Close contact during sexual intercourse and other sexual activities is the primary route of transmission. Direct contact of wounds with secretions, bodily fluids, and other excretions (such as semen, blood, and vaginal secretions) from skin or mucosal les...[Read More] Understanding Post-Treatment Reactions to Syphilis: What to Expect
Understanding Syphilis Treatment Options for LGBTQ+ Patients
Syphilis Diagnosis and Treatment I am gay and I was first diagnosed with syphilis two years ago (I was also diagnosed with HIV at the same time). I have received treatment (three injections for syphilis) and I was cured. Last year, I contracted syphilis again, but I was afraid to...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Yes, because the health insurance card will be annotated. For example, HIV and syphilis are both legally mandated reportable infectious diseases. If a clinic or physician diagnoses a legally reportable infectious disease but fails to report it within the specified time frame, ...[Read More] Understanding Syphilis Treatment Options for LGBTQ+ Patients
Understanding Bone Marrow Suppression and Its Complications After Azathioprine
Subsequent Issues Following Bone Marrow Suppression Induced by Azacitidine Hello, Doctor Gao. In February of this year, I visited the rheumatology and immunology department due to mild vitiligo and alopecia areata. I was prescribed Yasmin for a month, which resulted in significan...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I don't believe it's purpura. The likelihood of lymphoma is very low because your lymph nodes are small. It may be more likely that the side effects of the medication have not completely resolved. Although your platelet count is somew...[Read More] Understanding Bone Marrow Suppression and Its Complications After Azathioprine
Managing Diarrhea in Diabetic Patients: Causes and Solutions
Diarrhea in diabetic patients? My father has been a diabetic patient for 30 years and is now 77 years old. He controls his blood sugar with insulin injections. His HbA1c levels have been normal during his quarterly check-ups. However, since early March, he has suddenly started ex...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If diarrhea persists, please visit a gastroenterology department at a medical center. Thank you.[Read More] Managing Diarrhea in Diabetic Patients: Causes and Solutions
Managing Diarrhea in Diabetic Patients: Causes and Solutions
Diarrhea in diabetic patients My father has been a diabetic patient for 30 years and is now 77 years old. He controls his blood sugar with insulin injections. His hemoglobin A1c levels have been normal during his quarterly check-ups. However, since the beginning of March, he has ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If diarrhea persists, please visit the gastroenterology department at a medical center. Thank you.[Read More] Managing Diarrhea in Diabetic Patients: Causes and Solutions
Managing Diarrhea in Long-Term Diabetes Patients: A Guide for Caregivers
Diarrhea in diabetic patients? My father has been a diabetes patient for 30 years and is now 77 years old. He controls his blood sugar with insulin injections, and his hemoglobin A1c levels have been normal during his quarterly check-ups. However, since the beginning of March, he...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
The blood sugar medications that are more likely to cause diarrhea are metformin and acarbose. If the diarrhea is not caused by these medications, further follow-up with a gastroenterologist is still necessary.[Read More] Managing Diarrhea in Long-Term Diabetes Patients: A Guide for Caregivers
Understanding Why Muscle Injections Do Not Transmit HIV
Infection issues? 1. Why muscle injections are not a route for HIV infection. Thank you for your response.
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, intramuscular injections are typically performed by healthcare professionals who follow a thorough cleaning procedure. Additionally, the characteristics of the virus make it difficult to infect muscle tissue, so intramuscular injections are not a route for HIV transmission...[Read More] Understanding Why Muscle Injections Do Not Transmit HIV
Understanding Infection Risks from Injections: Subcutaneous vs. Intramuscular
Infection issues? When receiving an injection, if I did not pay attention to whether the needle was new, and considering that I am not in Taiwan where the equipment is reusable, the injection was administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly. 1. What is the risk of infection for...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infection. B. B...[Read More] Understanding Infection Risks from Injections: Subcutaneous vs. Intramuscular
Understanding the Risk of HIV Transmission Through Muscle Injection
Infection issues Follow-up question: I saw in previous posts that intramuscular injections are not a route for HIV infection. Now it is mentioned that there is a 0.3-0.5% risk. What exactly is the situation?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, muscle injection is indeed not a route of infection. This data refers to the risk of infection caused by being punctured with a needle contaminated with the HIV virus; the two meanings are different. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Transmission Through Muscle Injection