Understanding HIV Risks: Key Insights for Gay Men After Unprotected Sex
HIV Risk Hello doctor, I am a gay man. In early February, I had unprotected intercourse with someone, and I immediately withdrew after ejaculation. Does this reduce the risk of HIV infection, or is it still the same? I've been feeling a bit unwell these past few days; my gum...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, any unsafe sexual behavior carries a risk of HIV infection, and testing is necessary to confirm whether an infection has occurred. The symptoms you described are common manifestations of various infections, making it difficult to determine if HIV is present based solely on...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks: Key Insights for Gay Men After Unprotected Sex
Understanding Soft Lumps on the Outer Calves: Are They Lymph Nodes?
Prominent lymph nodes in the calf? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about two small round bumps that appear on the outer sides of both of my calves when I squat down or exert force. They feel soft to the touch and I don't particularly feel any lumps, but when I relax my leg...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it could be a lymph node or a lipoma. It may be necessary to seek a direct consultation to determine which one it is. I recommend visiting a plastic surgeon or a family medicine physician for confirmation. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Soft Lumps on the Outer Calves: Are They Lymph Nodes?
Can I Rule Out Infection After Multiple Negative Tests?
Will there be a turnaround? Doctor, I had a high-risk exposure on October 7th. I took an RTPCR test on October 18th and November 9th, and I also had P24 antigen and antibody tests done at 10 days, 33 days, 4 weeks, 6 weeks, 8 weeks, and 10 weeks, all of which were negative. I hav...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Akai: 1. Your question was already addressed on December 4, 2017. In addition to considering HIV, there are many other potential diagnoses that need to be clarified regarding your symptoms of fever, lymphadenopathy, and diarrhea in order to provide appropriate treatmen...[Read More] Can I Rule Out Infection After Multiple Negative Tests?
Swollen Lymph Nodes Without Cold Symptoms: What to Do Next?
Swollen lymph nodes without cold symptoms? Hello Doctor, two weeks ago, I noticed swelling in the lymph nodes on the right side of my jaw, which is painful when pressed, but I do not have any cold symptoms (no cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, or runny nose). I took antibioti...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Painful swollen lymph nodes are usually associated with local infections, including bacterial and viral infections. Some infections may present with mild symptoms, primarily manifesting as lymphadenopathy. Therefore, if you have swollen and pai...[Read More] Swollen Lymph Nodes Without Cold Symptoms: What to Do Next?
Understanding Low Lymphocyte Count and High Neutrophil Levels
Lymphocytopenia and elevated neutrophil count? Hello, two weeks ago I had a self-paid health check-up, and there are two results that I am particularly concerned about. My lymphocyte count is low at 16% (normal range is 20-45%), and my neutrophil count is slightly elevated at 75%...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the V-shaped lymph nodes on both sides of the mandible, the response is as follows: A: 1. You may refer to a PDF document, attached. 2. If you still have questions, you can consult and seek treatment at a medical facility with an otolaryngology or family m...[Read More] Understanding Low Lymphocyte Count and High Neutrophil Levels
Understanding Persistent Fever and Cough: Possible HIV Concerns
I have been experiencing intermittent fever for a month? 1. What is the likelihood of contracting HIV in this situation? 2. Do these symptoms resemble those of HIV? I have been monitoring my lymph nodes and oral health, and everything appears normal, except for throat pain caused...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding 1. What is the likelihood of contracting HIV in this situation? A: According to the CDC-Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse with an HIV-infected individual or exch...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Fever and Cough: Possible HIV Concerns
Can I Trust My Test Results? Understanding Persistent Symptoms and Diagnosis
Can it be confirmed or not? Doctor, I am from Tainan. On October 7th, I was at high risk. On October 14th, I experienced abdominal pain and diarrhea. On October 18th, I went to a testing facility for an RTPCR test (negative), and the P24 test was also (negative). On November 2nd,...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. A-Kai: 1. HIV RT-PCR is primarily used in the early stages of HIV infection, approximately around 7 days post-exposure. If infection has occurred, the viral load is very low, so PCR is utilized in the laboratory to amplify the viral quantity, allowing for the detection ...[Read More] Can I Trust My Test Results? Understanding Persistent Symptoms and Diagnosis
Is Lymphadenopathy Four Months After Unprotected Sex Related to HIV?
Lymphadenopathy appeared four months after anal intercourse? In early July of this year, I had sexual intercourse with a man. At first, we used a condom, but towards the end, I suddenly realized he had removed it, so I don't know how long I was exposed without protection. Re...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, regarding <enlarged cervical lymph nodes...> the response is as follows: A: 1. Engaging in unsafe sexual practices (including withdrawal during intercourse) places individuals at high risk for sexually transmitted infections (including HIV). Please do not ta...[Read More] Is Lymphadenopathy Four Months After Unprotected Sex Related to HIV?
Understanding HIV Symptoms: Is Oral Thrush a Sign of Infection?
Symptoms of AIDS-related complications? Hello, Doctor. Due to work-related reasons, I had a suspected needle stick incident with a dental anesthetic needle. I believe I was stuck about 15 minutes after the patient finished using it, but I did not undergo any testing at that time....
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it does not seem like typical symptoms of HIV. As for the incubation period, it can indeed vary in length, making it difficult to assess the condition solely based on timing. The best recommendation is to seek medical attention for an HIV test or...[Read More] Understanding HIV Symptoms: Is Oral Thrush a Sign of Infection?
Understanding Blood-Streaked Nasal Discharge: Symptoms and Concerns
Blood-streaked nasal mucus issue? Hello, doctor. I was hospitalized recently due to a continuous fever for five days, with temperatures above 39 degrees Celsius. I was treated with antibiotics, which helped reduce the fever. The hospital could not determine the cause of the fever...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, I can sense your concern about having cancer. Based on your age and symptoms, it is likely that you are experiencing a respiratory infection, and these symptoms are probably complications of that infection rather than indicative of nasopharyngeal cancer. However, if your s...[Read More] Understanding Blood-Streaked Nasal Discharge: Symptoms and Concerns
Persistent Afternoon Fever: Understanding Chronic Symptoms and Causes
Fever every afternoon? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing a fever for over a month now, with temperatures gradually rising in the afternoon, ranging from 37.5 to 38.5 degrees Celsius. Two months ago, I had symptoms such as coughing and a runny nose, with occasional fevers aro...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, regarding the above issue, here is my response. Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing a fever for over a month, with temperatures gradually rising in the afternoon, ranging between 37.5°C and 38.5°C. Two months ago, I had symptoms of cough and runny nose, with o...[Read More] Persistent Afternoon Fever: Understanding Chronic Symptoms and Causes
Understanding Sarcoidosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Chest pain associated with sarcoma? Hello Doctor: Last October, I experienced prolonged unexplained fever (38 degrees Celsius) and visited the infectious disease department multiple times for examinations. During this period, I also had night sweats, weight loss (3 kg in one mont...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
1. Sarcomatoid carcinoma is not a common disease, and it is recommended to seek medical attention at a medical center. 2. Bringing all relevant medical records can help the physician quickly understand your condition. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Sarcoidosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Chest Lumps: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Chest lump Hello, I have a hard lump about the size of a five-dollar coin located approximately 5 centimeters below the middle of my clavicle. It is not painful, but sometimes I experience discomfort when I take deep or rapid breaths. I would like to know what this condition migh...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that the subclavian lymph nodes are likely affected due to inflammation from other organs. I recommend consulting with a family medicine specialist or a general surgeon for further evaluation. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Chest Lumps: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Thyroid Tumors: Understanding Surgical Options and Lifelong Medication
Thyroid tumor Dear Director: At A Hospital, a biopsy was performed on both thyroid nodules, with the right side measuring 1.3 cm and the left side 0.85 cm. The physician informed me that after total thyroidectomy, lifelong medication would be necessary. At B Hospital, a biopsy sh...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Ping An, 1. Papillary carcinoma is the most common type of malignant thyroid tumor, predominantly occurring in young women. It typically presents with an irregular shape, and the tumor cells are arranged in a papillary pattern. Characteristic nuclear changes include gr...[Read More] Thyroid Tumors: Understanding Surgical Options and Lifelong Medication
Understanding Chronic Pain: From Lymphadenitis to Muscle Discomfort
Chest tightness, hard lumps under the armpits, muscle pain, neck pain, back pain, and facial pain? Hello Dr. Liao: I am a 40-year-old mother, and I have been troubled by pain for the past few months (some of this pain actually started several years ago), but it has worsened recen...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, regarding the issues of "chest tightness, hard lumps under the armpits, muscle pain, neck pain, back pain, and facial pain," I suggest the following: 1. Being a homemaker is a demanding job that often goes unnoticed or unappreciated by family members. It...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Pain: From Lymphadenitis to Muscle Discomfort
Understanding HIV Risks: Anal Sex and Safe Practices Explained
HIV Issues During anal intercourse, if there was a bowel movement and excessive wiping caused bleeding, and for the first 1-2 minutes there was no condom used, but the rest of the time a condom was used without ejaculation inside, and both partners are HIV-negative, is there a ri...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
The most important aspect of this situation is to confirm that both parties are free of HIV, as the transmission routes for HIV are numerous, including unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles, and exposure to infected bodily fluids. Many individuals may not be aware of th...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks: Anal Sex and Safe Practices Explained
Understanding the Significance of RA and Abnormal Test Results in Internal Medicine
Inquiry about the significance of the test? Hello, doctor. In the past, I tested positive for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) during a health check, so my company has been adding this test to my annual examinations. About 6-7 years ago, I consulted a rheumatologist who mentioned that s...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Albumin is naturally more abundant than globulin, so a slight increase is not a concern. 2. An ANA titer of 1:80 (+) is within the normal range, so there is no need to worry. 3. For a positive rheumatoid arthritis (...[Read More] Understanding the Significance of RA and Abnormal Test Results in Internal Medicine
Can Thyroid Cancer Patients Take Iodine Supplements After Treatment?
Can patients with thyroid cancer consume iodine-containing dietary supplements? Dear Dr. Hsiao, My mother needs to undergo iodine-131 treatment and a whole-body scan due to papillary thyroid cancer. After completing the iodine-131 whole-body scan, is it permissible to consume io...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Elaine: 1. Papillary carcinoma is the most common type of malignant thyroid tumor, typically occurring in individuals in their 20s and 30s, as well as in older adults. It may be associated with prior radiation exposure to the head and neck during childhood. This type of...[Read More] Can Thyroid Cancer Patients Take Iodine Supplements After Treatment?
Risk of HIV Transmission from Unprotected Anal Sex: What You Need to Know
Engaging in unprotected anal intercourse with a male partner can increase the risk of HIV transmission. It is important to get tested and consult a healthcare professional for advice on prevention and treatment options? Hello, doctor. I am a gay man. I had anal intercourse with a...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear reader, Regarding your question about having anal intercourse with a man in the Philippines without using a condom and having an internal ejaculation, is there a risk of contracting HIV? What is the likelihood? A: (1) The known high-risk groups for HIV infection include th...[Read More] Risk of HIV Transmission from Unprotected Anal Sex: What You Need to Know
Understanding Lymphadenitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Strange Lymph Nodes Hello Doctor, here is the situation regarding my girlfriend: Last week, she had a severe sore throat and was diagnosed with lymphadenitis after seeing a doctor. After taking medication for a week, although the pain has subsided, she still has some swelling. Sh...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
It is highly recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for differential diagnosis. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Lymphadenitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns