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
Lower Back Pain After Flu Vaccine: Is It a Side Effect?
Experiencing lower back pain after receiving the flu vaccine? Hello doctor, I received the flu vaccine on Friday afternoon, and since then my lower back has been very sore. Is this a side effect of the vaccine? I need to take care of my child, and especially after sitting in the ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question "<Is back pain after receiving the flu vaccine a side effect of the vaccine?>", here is the response: I. Please refer to the CDC's Q&A: http://www.cdc.gov.tw/qa.aspx? Q1: Is the flu vaccine safe? What side effects m...[Read More] Lower Back Pain After Flu Vaccine: Is It a Side Effect?
Understanding Kidney Issues: Insights on Recovery and Dietary Considerations
Kidney problems Hello, my sister is 29 years old and has a history of refractory epilepsy for 23 years, is a carrier of hepatitis B, and has been diagnosed with schizophrenia for 2 years. She was hospitalized on July 31 due to cellulitis and developed sepsis, requiring intubation...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on the data you provided, this condition is classified as "acute kidney injury," which may be caused by cellulitis complicated by sepsis. The key point is that as the infection is brought under control, your kidney function will gradually improve. It is recommende...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: Insights on Recovery and Dietary Considerations
When to Stop Medication for Hyperthyroidism: A Patient's Concern
The issue of when to discontinue medication for hyperthyroidism? Hello, doctor. This April, I experienced a noticeable increase in heart rate along with other uncomfortable symptoms. At the beginning of May, I visited a family medicine clinic where blood tests diagnosed me with h...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to visit the endocrinology department for further examination. If it is subacute thyroiditis, there will be no need for medication once recovery is achieved. Thank you for your message![Read More] When to Stop Medication for Hyperthyroidism: A Patient's Concern
Understanding Temporary Swelling and Pain in Fingers and Toes
Swelling, pain, and itching in the fingers and toes? Hello doctor, recently I have been experiencing intermittent swelling, pain, and itching in my fingers and toes, which occurs in various locations. Sometimes there is slight swelling, but usually, the symptoms subside or improv...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your symptoms, it may be related to growth and development or trauma. However, it is important to monitor for any accompanying symptoms, such as joint pain or skin rashes. If these related phenomena persist, it is advisable to consult a family medicine specialist....[Read More] Understanding Temporary Swelling and Pain in Fingers and Toes
Understanding Acute HIV Infection: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Acute HIV infection phase? Hello Doctor, I started feeling unwell around August 29, experiencing fever and fatigue. On August 30, I had blood tests showing a CRP of 7.490 (all other biochemical parameters were normal), WBC of 12,870, Neutrophils 70.8%, Lymphocytes 19.9%, and Mono...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: According to the Centers for Disease Control website (http://www.cdc.gov.tw), 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 ...[Read More] Understanding Acute HIV Infection: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Could I Have Contracted an STD? Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) Hello, Doctor. I had sexual relations with a mature sex worker on August 22. Initially, she gave me a full-body massage with lotion, and later we engaged in intercourse with a condom. However, about 20 minutes after finishing and returning hom...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based solely on your symptoms, it is difficult to definitively determine whether it is a sexually transmitted infection (STI), primarily because STIs can present with a wide range of symptoms. Additional diagnostic tests are needed for a more accurate assessment. If you ar...[Read More] Could I Have Contracted an STD? Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Can Steroids Cause Dizziness? Understanding Side Effects and Concerns
Can steroids cause dizziness? Hello, Doctor. I have had SLE for 15 years, and I was recently discharged from the hospital due to vasculitis. I have been resting at home for ten days now and am currently taking eight corticosteroids. I feel about 90% recovered, but I am troubled b...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Julia, thank you for your question. Here is my response summarized as follows: 1. The dosage of 8 steroid pills is not considered high, and it should not be used for a long duration; you can always consult your physician about this. 2. Steroids are unlikely to cause dizz...[Read More] Can Steroids Cause Dizziness? Understanding Side Effects and Concerns
Concerns About Using Expired Tetracycline Ointment: Kidney Risks?
Questions about medication use? Today, I accidentally used expired tetracycline eye ointment, approximately the size of a grain of rice, on a wound on my chin. I later realized that the medication expired a month ago. I rinsed it off with water five minutes after application. Wil...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, topical medications usually accumulate locally and are less likely to affect systemic organs, so kidney function should not be impacted. However, it is important to monitor the local wound for any signs of redness, swelling, inflammation, or rash. If these occur, it is adv...[Read More] Concerns About Using Expired Tetracycline Ointment: Kidney Risks?
Can Syphilis Test Results Ever Be Zero? Understanding Transmission Risks
Can the syphilis index be zero? I would like to ask, if I only have a positive TPHA and negative RPR or VDRL, can I still transmit the infection to others? The test was conducted two years ago, and I received treatment at that time. This year, during follow-up, my titers have dec...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: <Can the index for syphilis be zero?> The response is as follows: According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) (see attachment) on page 5, the case definition for reporting conditions is as follows: 1. Clinical conditions: (1) The pre...[Read More] Can Syphilis Test Results Ever Be Zero? Understanding Transmission Risks
Understanding HIV Risks: Oral Sex and Symptoms Explained
HIV issues Hello, doctor. On March 6th of this year, I had unprotected oral sex with a sex worker. About 20 seconds later, she rinsed her mouth and then continued to provide service for another 20 seconds. Because I was concerned, I stopped the activity immediately. In the end, m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, from your question, I can sense your concern and fear regarding oral sex without a condom. Indeed, if there is no blood contact and only saliva is involved, the risk of transmission is very low. As for your symptoms, they are likely caused by a cold or gastroenteritis. Alt...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks: Oral Sex and Symptoms Explained
Understanding Secondary Syphilis: Treatment Progress and Concerns
Syphilis infection Hello Doctor: Since being diagnosed with stage 2 syphilis (within one year), I have received three injections of 2.4 million units of penicillin on February 20, February 24, and March 4. However, as of today, March 12, the rash on my hand (which has resolved on...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, regarding issues related to secondary syphilis infection, the following recommendations are provided: 1. You have received three doses of medication on February 20, February 27, and March 4, which should be sufficient; there is no need for a fourth injection. 2. You...[Read More] Understanding Secondary Syphilis: Treatment Progress and Concerns
Low Lymphocyte Count: Could It Indicate HIV Infection?
A low lymphocyte count and a neutrophil count near the upper limit of normal could potentially indicate various conditions, including HIV. However, these findings alone are not definitive for an HIV diagnosis. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evalu...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Regarding <My Story>, the response is as follows: 1. I discovered painful urination and purulent discharge in mid-December last year and immediately sought medical attention at a clinic. However, there was no discharge during the examination. The doctor administered an in...[Read More] Low Lymphocyte Count: Could It Indicate HIV Infection?
Assessing HIV Risk: Symptoms and Concerns After Multiple Encounters
Symptoms related to HIV/AIDS? Hello, doctor. Since around September of last year, I have had sexual encounters with over ten sex workers. Among these encounters, there were a few instances of unprotected oral sex, but all vaginal intercourse was protected, and there was no anal i...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: According to the information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://www.cdc.gov.tw/professional/list.aspx?treeid=7B56E6F932B49B90&nowtreeid=8CFCD9975BC5720FA. The transmission routes of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are as follows: 1...[Read More] Assessing HIV Risk: Symptoms and Concerns After Multiple Encounters
Understanding Injection Allergies: Symptoms and What to Do Next
Injection allergy Hello Doctor: Two days ago, I strained my neck and it became swollen and painful, so yesterday I went to a clinic to receive anti-inflammatory injections (one clear and one yellow, administered in the back of my right hand). Shortly after the first injection, I ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Wang: 1. During a single intravenous injection, it is almost always possible to see some degree of blood return; generally, it is not excessive, and you can simply push the blood back into the syringe. 2. Intravenous injections circulate throughout the body quickly und...[Read More] Understanding Injection Allergies: Symptoms and What to Do Next
Risk of STIs After Unprotected Oral Sex: What You Need to Know
In February, I had unprotected oral sex with a sex worker? Hello, doctor. In February of this year, I had unprotected oral sex and genital rubbing with a sex worker, but there was no complete vaginal penetration. The encounter lasted only a few minutes. Last week, I noticed some ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the situation of having unprotected oral sex and genital rubbing with a sex worker in February of this year, but without complete vaginal penetration, and the encounter lasting only a few minutes. I noticed some mild rashes and itching on my body last week...[Read More] Risk of STIs After Unprotected Oral Sex: What You Need to Know
Understanding Urticarial Vasculitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
The skin has developed a large number of rashes, primarily on the joints and buttocks? Hello Director Gao, since last Thursday when I forcefully dragged the floor, I started to develop numerous red rashes on my hands (which feel like broken capillaries). The next evening, I unexp...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Dear Miss Hsu, Thank you for your email. Urticaria and urticarial vasculitis are somewhat different conditions. Generally, urticaria tends to have a stronger itching sensation, while vasculitis is characterized primarily by a stinging pain. Additionally, some urticaria can occur...[Read More] Understanding Urticarial Vasculitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Understanding STD Risks: HIV Transmission, Testing, and Symptoms Explained
Regarding sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)? Hello, doctor: 1. Aside from high-risk behaviors and drug use, is there a chance of contracting HIV from normal contact if my fingers are prone to dryness and cracking? 2. What is the window period for HIV testing? Most sources ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the question, "Aside from risky behaviors and drug use, is there a chance of contracting HIV from normal contact, especially if my fingers are prone to dryness and cracking?" The answer is: The risk is very low. 2. Concerning the question, ...[Read More] Understanding STD Risks: HIV Transmission, Testing, and Symptoms Explained
Understanding HIV and Syphilis: Symptoms, Risks, and Concerns
Regarding HIV and syphilis infections? Hello, I would like to ask a few questions regarding HIV/AIDS. The situation is as follows: I work in the service industry and have noticed some customers with unexplained red spots and rashes on their arms and calves, raising concerns about...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the body temperature sometimes remaining above 36.6°C and below 37.2°C around 11 PM to midnight or even later, could this be caused by an acute infection? A: Generally, healthy individuals have a lower body temperature in the early morning and the hi...[Read More] Understanding HIV and Syphilis: Symptoms, Risks, and Concerns
Concerns About HIV Transmission from Contaminated Floors and Shoes
Floor and shoe sole Hello: I work in a pathology lab where specimens often result in blood or bodily fluids dripping onto the floor. After handling specimens, I walk back to the adjacent office and am concerned that HIV in the bodily fluids on the floor could be brought back to t...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, 1. The following are legally mandated infectious diseases that can be transmitted through contact: Granulomatous amoebic encephalitis, rabies, anthrax, glanders, leptospirosis, tetanus, neonatal tetanus, scabies, pediculosis, leprosy, cat scratch fever, tularemia, ...[Read More] Concerns About HIV Transmission from Contaminated Floors and Shoes