Parasites, Internal Medicine FAQ - Page 4

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Can You Get Parasites from Unwashed Hands After Handling Dumplings?

I would like to know if this could lead to a parasitic infection? I cooked raw dumplings today (which were pre-made) and forgot to wash my hands before touching my teeth. I remember seeing that there are parasites that lay eggs in pork, so I want to know if I could get infected t...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the process you described, since you are not directly consuming raw pork, there should be no concern about parasitic infection. Thank you for your inquiry.

[Read More] Can You Get Parasites from Unwashed Hands After Handling Dumplings?


Concerns About Drinking Contaminated Water: Health Risks and Symptoms

The effects of drinking untreated water? Hello, doctor. Today, after buying watermelon milk from a convenience store, I was concerned about bacteria or viruses, so I rinsed the bottle with water. The drink is in a roof-shaped paper container, and there was already a round hole on...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, it seems you might have rinsed with tap water. Tap water undergoes a certain level of filtration and disinfection, so the residual water left in the straw should not have a significant impact. If you only experienced diarrhea once, there is no need for ...

[Read More] Concerns About Drinking Contaminated Water: Health Risks and Symptoms


Undercooked Fish: Should You See a Doctor After Eating?

The tilapia is not cooked? I cooked tilapia that I bought from the store today, and halfway through eating, I realized it wasn't fully cooked; it was about 70-80% done. I saw this and induced vomiting. Should I still see a doctor? I'm a bit worried about a possible para...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, fish meat does not necessarily contain parasites. If a small amount of parasites is ingested, the body usually can eliminate them. It is recommended to monitor for any gastrointestinal symptoms. If symptoms occur, you may want to consult a gastroenterologist. If there are ...

[Read More] Undercooked Fish: Should You See a Doctor After Eating?


Could Ice Chewing Indicate a Parasite Infection? Symptoms and Solutions

Suspected parasitic infection? I apologize for the interruption. Recently, I have been experiencing frequent nausea, bloating, and a sensation of something foreign in the upper palate (near the throat), almost like air. I would like to inquire if my habit of frequently chewing ic...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
No, that's not the case! As far as I know, there are no parasites that can be transmitted through ice cubes. The white spots should be evaluated by an otolaryngologist, as they could also be due to other bacterial or fungal infections.

[Read More] Could Ice Chewing Indicate a Parasite Infection? Symptoms and Solutions


Are Undercooked Shrimp Safe? Understanding Risks and Health Concerns

Concerns about Undercooked Food Several years ago, my family became fascinated with a cooking method they saw on a culinary show, which has led to multiple arguments due to the occasional fishy taste in the dishes. I am particularly concerned about shrimp, such as shrimp omelets....


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is not always possible to determine the presence of parasites solely based on appearance. Currently, medical practice primarily focuses on patients with gastrointestinal symptoms, who can have their stool tested for parasite eggs. As for blood tests, theoretically, eosi...

[Read More] Are Undercooked Shrimp Safe? Understanding Risks and Health Concerns


Understanding Tongue Pain: The Role of B12 Deficiency and Parasites

Tongue pain and issues related to vitamin B12 deficiency and parasitic infections (long text)? Hello Doctor, I mainly want to ask about parasites and gastrointestinal issues. Here are my personal details: At the age of 12, I contracted pneumonia and took antibiotics for a month ...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
1. Theoretically, eosinophil levels may rise during a parasitic infection; however, this is not absolute, as many individuals with parasitic infections may have normal test results. 2. Indeed, when testing stool for ova, unless the parasite is shedding eggs at the time of testi...

[Read More] Understanding Tongue Pain: The Role of B12 Deficiency and Parasites


Risks of Eating Undercooked Pork: Parasite Infection Concerns

Eating undercooked pork? If you accidentally consumed a piece of undercooked marinated pork that was grilled for only about 10 seconds, there is a potential risk of parasitic infection, particularly from parasites such as Trichinella spiralis, which can be found in undercooked po...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Raw pork does carry a higher risk of parasites (primarily pork tapeworms), so it is generally recommended to consume it well-cooked. However, if the pork has been frozen, most parasites will typically be killed, which reduces the risk in pork served at restaurants. Additio...

[Read More] Risks of Eating Undercooked Pork: Parasite Infection Concerns


Feeling of Throat Obstruction After Tick Removal: What to Do?

Sensation of a foreign body in the throat? Recently, I adopted a puppy that has ticks. I would like to ask if ticks can live inside humans, in addition to being on the skin of dogs and people. I forgot to wear a mask while treating the dog for parasites, and after talking during ...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the chances of swallowing a tick are very low. Based on your symptoms, you should be more cautious about catching a cold. I recommend drinking some warm water and getting plenty of rest. If your symptoms persist, please consult an ear, nose, and throat specialist. Thank yo...

[Read More] Feeling of Throat Obstruction After Tick Removal: What to Do?


Concerns After Showering: Nasal Water Exposure and Facial Symmetry Issues

Issues Discovered While Showering Hello Dr. Hong, I would like to ask you some questions. While I was showering, water from the handheld showerhead accidentally went into my nostrils, and I suddenly felt uncomfortable as if it flowed down to my throat. I’m concerned whether this ...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The tap water in Taiwan is filtered and disinfected, so the risk of infection from water entering the nostrils is very low, so there is no need to worry. 2. The muscle patterns on the left and right sides of the face are not perfectly symmetrical; what you described is ...

[Read More] Concerns After Showering: Nasal Water Exposure and Facial Symmetry Issues


Parasite Infection Risks from Undercooked Sausages: What You Need to Know

Parasitic infection issues? Hello, doctor. Yesterday, I cooked some small sausages in a frying pan at home without thawing them first. I wasn't sure if they were fully cooked, and some family members thought that parts of them seemed a bit off when they bit into them. About ...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if the sausage you purchased is from a legitimate vendor and has been properly cooked, the risk of infection should be very low. Additionally, Taiwan is not a high-prevalence area for pork tapeworms, so the likelihood of parasitic infection is also low. Regarding your diar...

[Read More] Parasite Infection Risks from Undercooked Sausages: What You Need to Know


Flea Infestations: Health Risks and Prevention Tips

Insect issues? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've noticed fleas in my house. This morning, I saw one on my ankle while wearing socks, and when I tried to catch it with a tissue, it suddenly jumped and I lost track of it. I'm worried that it might have jumped onto my body, po...


Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is important to pay attention to the presence of rodents or wild animals, as parasites such as chiggers on these animals can more easily cause infectious diseases. If there are no such animals, the risk of contracting serious diseases from common indoor fleas is relativ...

[Read More] Flea Infestations: Health Risks and Prevention Tips


Concerns About Parasite Infection After Dog Interaction: What to Do?

Concerned about parasitic infections? Hello Doctor, I have been interacting with a three-month-old puppy recently. I heard that the puppy was given deworming medication about a month ago. Today, I took her for a walk and training session. She is very active and tends to lick peop...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! 1. Most parasites are very small, and if the parasite can be clearly seen with the naked eye, it is likely an external environmental insect rather than an internal parasite. 2. The vast majority of human parasites do not reproduce within the body, so as long as the source ...

[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection After Dog Interaction: What to Do?


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 You Get Parasitic Infections from Handling Water Plants?

Parasitic infection issues? Due to the need for fish farming, I manually pulled aquatic plants from a field ditch. After pulling them out, I washed my hands, and once they were dry, I ate some mint candy. Later, I discovered some worms in the aquarium that seem to be schistosomes...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding <Parasites...> the response is as follows: A: You can refer to the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov.tw/diseaseinfo.aspx? 1. Overview of Common Intestinal Parasitic Diseases: Intestinal parasitic diseases are prevalent in tropical and subtropical ...

[Read More] Can You Get Parasitic Infections from Handling Water Plants?


Does Daily Use of Medication Affect HIV Testing Results?

Will this affect the HIV testing? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask a couple of questions. 1. I have a daily habit of taking "New Bifidobacterium" (or "New Bifidobacteria"). Will this affect HIV screening? 2. Regarding the HIV window period, should it be cons...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, I. Regarding <Borborygmi>, the response is as follows: A: Refer to the Lourdes Association website http://www.lourdes.org.tw/list_1.asp?id=2483&menu1=7&menu2=1301. Diarrhea is defined as a more frequent bowel movement than usual, with stools that may...

[Read More] Does Daily Use of Medication Affect HIV Testing Results?


Understanding Body Immunity After Fever: What to Expect?

Body immunity after a fever? Hello Dr. Liao, I would like to ask you a question. Generally, when we get sick, it is due to a weakened immune system that allows viruses or bacteria to invade. After becoming ill, the antibodies in the body fight against the viruses or bacteria, whi...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding <Body Resistance After Fever> A: 1. Generally, healthy individuals (aged over 15 and under 65) have a more mature immune system, making them less susceptible to infections from external pathogens. Other age groups may be more prone to illness if they...

[Read More] Understanding Body Immunity After Fever: What to Expect?


Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain and Increased Bowel Movements

Left lower abdominal dull pain? Hello doctor, my bowel movements have increased, and I have a dull pain in my lower left abdomen. I also experience significant pain in the anus during defecation. What could be the issue?


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, regarding the issue of "increased bowel movements and dull pain in the lower left abdomen, with significant pain during defecation": 1. The pain in the lower left abdomen can have many possible causes, such as medications, infections, or underlying gastr...

[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain and Increased Bowel Movements


Can Undercooked Meat Cause Parasites? Symptoms and Solutions

Tapeworm inquiry.? Hello, I would like to ask if accidentally consuming undercooked meat during a barbecue can easily lead to the presence of parasites in the body? If so, what symptoms might occur? What should be done? Thank you!


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Referring to an online message: "Raw Meat Can Be Deadly: A Wake-Up Call for Japan's Raw Food Culture." Date: May 19, 2011 | URL: http://tw.aboluowang.com. Recently, a collective food poisoning incident occurred at barbecue restaurants in Toyama a...

[Read More] Can Undercooked Meat Cause Parasites? Symptoms and Solutions


Persistent Fever for 12 Days: Causes, Treatment, and When to Seek Help

Persistent fever Fever that comes and goes for 12 days, with the doctor prescribing antibiotics and drawing blood? There are signs of inflammation, but otherwise, everything is fine (not sure about the purpose of the blood test). I haven't taken any medication, but I experie...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. First, the definition of fever is an ear temperature or axillary temperature above 37.3°C. Additionally, body temperature can fluctuate throughout the day; therefore, it is recommended to record your temperature daily (at least once in the morning and once in t...

[Read More] Persistent Fever for 12 Days: Causes, Treatment, and When to Seek Help


Understanding the Risks of Hair-Related Infections from Food

Risk of Hair Infection Diseases Hello Dr. Hsiao, about a month ago, I found a hair in my meal at a restaurant. Although I did not ingest it and my body has shown no unusual symptoms, I was told by a doctor during a check-up that not all illnesses can be detected immediately. Ther...


Dr. Xiao Jingqin Reply:
Hair is an appendage of the skin, and bacteria, fungi, or parasites such as lice that may be present on the skin can be transmitted through hair. However, these infections are generally not heat-resistant, and cooking typically eliminates their infectious potential. Additionally,...

[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Hair-Related Infections from Food


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