Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking BikTarVy for PEP Treatment?
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) Hello doctor, today I went to Mackay Memorial Hospital for PEP treatment, and the doctor prescribed me BikTarVy (bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide). Can I drink alcohol while taking this medication? If so, how long should I wait after...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, regarding the precautions for using Loxone (Tadalafil): When using Loxone film-coated tablets, please adhere to the following precautions and medication recommendations: - Follow the physician's prescription: Before using Loxone film-coated tablets, obtain an ...[Read More] Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking BikTarVy for PEP Treatment?
Feeling Hungry Soon After Eating: Stress or Endocrine Issues?
Feeling hungry shortly after eating? About one to two weeks ago, I started feeling hungry again about 1-2 hours after eating, to the point where my stomach growls. However, sometimes I don't really feel like eating psychologically, even though physiologically I feel hungry. ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
We recommend that you visit the Metabolism Department. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Feeling Hungry Soon After Eating: Stress or Endocrine Issues?
Understanding Mild Mitral Valve Prolapse and Heart Failure Symptoms
Suspected heart failure with mitral valve issues? Hello Doctor, thank you for your response. To provide some background, last year I experienced several months of sleep deprivation. I usually do not drink alcohol, but one night while out with friends, I was forced to drink a cock...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: MVP is a common condition characterized by the prolapse of one or both leaflets of the mitral valve into the left atrium during systole due to mitral valve insufficiency. The pathological mechanism is not fully understood. Pro-BNP testing can assist in the diagnosis of con...[Read More] Understanding Mild Mitral Valve Prolapse and Heart Failure Symptoms
Essential Care Tips for Living with One Kidney
Precautions for Having One Kidney Hello Dr. Huang, I was born with only one kidney on the left side (the right kidney was absent at birth). Recently, my routine blood tests have been normal, but an ultrasound revealed that my remaining kidney has enlarged slightly due to compen...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Mr. Lun: "Having only one kidney" means that you need to pay attention to certain aspects of daily life, which are similar to those of individuals with two kidneys. However, the situation may differ in cases of acute kidney injury, such as acute pyelonephritis, wh...[Read More] Essential Care Tips for Living with One Kidney
Understanding Skin Rashes and Positive ANA: What You Need to Know
Rash and ANA positive at 1:80? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about some recent developments. I have noticed three new red spots on the skin of my right cheek. Upon closer inspection, they seem to resemble either subcutaneous bleeding or pigmentation, but they are neither pain...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. Should I be concerned about my ANA test results? Does a change from negative to positive indicate that my health is deteriorating? --> Since the value is still quite low (80) and within an acceptable range, I reco...[Read More] Understanding Skin Rashes and Positive ANA: What You Need to Know
Struggling with Unexplained Health Issues: Seeking Effective Solutions
There are many health conditions? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing many health issues, but I have encountered obstacles in seeking medical help and have not been able to find the cause of my problems or receive effective assistance. Therefore, I would like to seek your opi...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, you may need to schedule a follow-up appointment with the Infectious Disease Department for further examination to determine if there are any physiological issues. Additionally, please measure your body temperature daily to check for fever after experiencing chills and shi...[Read More] Struggling with Unexplained Health Issues: Seeking Effective Solutions
Is Finger Trembling a Side Effect of Central and Peripheral Nervous System Abnormalities?
Is finger tremor a side effect manifestation of "central and peripheral nervous system abnormalities" caused by taking Seroquel? Hello, Doctor. I am 21 years old and was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis about three years ago. I have been taking Salazopyrin for appr...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is this a manifestation of "central and peripheral nervous system abnormalities" as a side effect? --> If you have an irregular eating pattern, the likelihood of experiencing side effects related to the ...[Read More] Is Finger Trembling a Side Effect of Central and Peripheral Nervous System Abnormalities?
Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Inquiry about Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello, Doctor. Over the past two to three years, I have frequently experienced skin allergies (rashes). When I am back in my hometown (Miaoli), my condition improves significantly during my vacation, but it immediately relapses when I return to ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. For someone like me who experiences long-term allergies that recur, could it be due to environmental factors, stress, or irregular lifestyle? What should I pay attention to or how can I improve? --> All three fact...[Read More] Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Distinguishing Between Immune Issues and Menopause Symptoms at 50
How to distinguish between immune issues and menopausal symptoms? Hello, Doctor. I am 50 years and 6 months old. My menstrual cycle was regular until December of last year when it suddenly stopped. Before March of this year, I experienced insomnia, excessive sweating, frequent co...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: (1) What tests should be done to confirm if there is inflammation or adhesion in the spine? --> X-rays and blood tests are sufficient. If necessary, an MRI may also be arranged. Your physician may have started treatm...[Read More] Distinguishing Between Immune Issues and Menopause Symptoms at 50
Understanding Immune Dysregulation: Chronic Urticaria and Its Challenges
Immune dysfunction Hello, Doctor. I have been suffering from chronic urticaria for about four years, and it has not been cured. A previous doctor mentioned that this is a reaction of immune hyperactivity. However, since my diagnosis nearly a year ago, I have been experiencing rec...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is this situation due to immune hyperactivity or deficiency? Can both coexist? --> It may be better understood as "immune system dysregulation." Autoimmune diseases and allergic conditions are both result...[Read More] Understanding Immune Dysregulation: Chronic Urticaria and Its Challenges
Could Thyroid Issues Be Behind Your Ongoing Health Problems?
Is it possible to have a thyroid problem? Hello, doctor. I am a recent college graduate, and I have been troubled by various issues since middle school, such as anxiety, insomnia, tremors, rapid heartbeat, frequent muscle cramps, and occasional swelling of my eyes. Additionally, ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
It is recommended that you first consult with a family medicine specialist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Could Thyroid Issues Be Behind Your Ongoing Health Problems?
Understanding Hormonal Imbalance: When to See a Specialist
Endocrine disorder Hello, Doctor: I visited the obstetrics and gynecology department in April and was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Due to not having my period for several months, the doctor prescribed Norethindrone 5.705 mg to be taken twice daily for 14 days....
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: You can first consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist. Inform them of your condition completely, and then ask if you need to see any other specialists.[Read More] Understanding Hormonal Imbalance: When to See a Specialist
Can High Rheumatoid Factor Levels Return to Normal? Insights and Advice
Is it possible for a high rheumatoid factor to decrease to normal levels? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you a question. I have recently measured my rheumatoid factor twice, and both times it was very high, around 200. The second measurement was even higher than the first. My...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. A high rheumatoid factor is an indication of immune dysfunction and, in principle, will not return to normal solely due to strict lifestyle adjustments. A higher rheumatoid factor simply suggests that you have a greater likelihood of having a r...[Read More] Can High Rheumatoid Factor Levels Return to Normal? Insights and Advice
Understanding Sudden Fainting: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Sudden fainting? Around 12:20 AM today, my mother (52 years old) was talking before going to the bathroom when she suddenly fainted just as she was about to enter. I heard a noise and rushed to check, finding her collapsed at the doorway. She regained consciousness after about 30...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, it is likely that the alcohol caused vasodilation, leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure, combined with urine production activating the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in a temporary fainting episode. It is recommended that if she drinks alco...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Fainting: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Understanding Thyroid Index: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Thyroid index The laboratory tests showed a TSH level of 1.90 (normal reference range: 0.27–4.20) and a Free T4 level of 1.73 (normal reference range: 0.93–1.70). You mentioned experiencing insomnia the day before the blood draw and having poor sleep quality throughout the week. ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Currently, the index does not require treatment; follow-up can be done in about three to six months.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Index: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Understanding Sleep Issues: Concerns for Your Aging Parent's Health
Sleep issues Hello Dr. Hong, I am inquiring on behalf of my mother, who is currently 58 years old and works a regular job from Monday to Friday. I am quite worried that she is overexerting herself. While she doesn't seem to have issues at work, during her off hours, she ofte...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, it seems that your mother may have sleep apnea, likely of mild to moderate severity. It is recommended to wait until the pandemic situation stabilizes before scheduling a sleep study at a major hospital's sleep clinic to identify the underlying cau...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Issues: Concerns for Your Aging Parent's Health
Evening Headaches: Understanding Nighttime Pain and Its Causes
I experience headaches every evening? Hello doctor, my partner has been experiencing headaches that start after 10 PM for the past two to three nights. Sometimes, there is also a tingling sensation in the face. However, after getting some sleep, there are no symptoms during the d...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the causes of headaches are often multifactorial, including medication, irregular sleep patterns, lack of exercise, stress, and coffee consumption habits, among others. Based on the situation you mentioned, the potential contributing factors could be: 1. Irregular sleep pa...[Read More] Evening Headaches: Understanding Nighttime Pain and Its Causes
Understanding Thyroid Issues: Should You Get Further Testing?
Thyroid issues Recently, I had a blood test for my thyroid due to issues with hand tremors, and my TSH level came back slightly low. Do I need to get further testing? I have been experiencing persistent low-grade fever, fatigue, insomnia, irritability, reduced menstrual flow, and...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Further related tests for the thyroid gland can be conducted.[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Issues: Should You Get Further Testing?
Understanding Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Neck pain I recently went to exercise and twisted the right side of my neck. I applied a patch for four days, and it doesn't hurt while it's on, nor in the morning, but by the afternoon, the pain comes and goes. Additionally, I have difficulty swallowing saliva, and swa...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is likely that you are experiencing a muscle strain. However, since you mentioned difficulty swallowing, there is a concern about a possible throat issue or a localized hematoma. I recommend that you first consult an otolaryngologist for an ex...[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Managing Adrenal Insufficiency: Medication Alternatives and Symptoms Relief
Adrenal insufficiency I have known that I have this condition for nearly two years. My levels increased from 0 to 9, but then dropped to 1.5 within five months. Is medication absolutely necessary for this condition? I experience significant dizziness when standing, and my mood sw...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
The main treatment for adrenal insufficiency is medication. If you experience discomfort after taking the medication, you should discuss it with your physician to determine if the medication is the cause. Sometimes, the discomfort may not be due to the medication but rather other...[Read More] Managing Adrenal Insufficiency: Medication Alternatives and Symptoms Relief