Managing Recurrent Rheumatism: Impact of Traditional and Western Medicine
Symptoms of recurrent rheumatic fever? Hello, Doctor. After experiencing persistent pain for three months, I was diagnosed with recurrent rheumatism. One day I woke up with morning stiffness in both hands, but it disappeared after two days. Later, my doctor prescribed quinine. Be...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. I will be undergoing a blood test in the next few days to check the status after taking quinine for a month. I would like to know if the concurrent use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine will af...[Read More] Managing Recurrent Rheumatism: Impact of Traditional and Western Medicine
Understanding RA Factor Changes and Related Health Concerns
Rheumatoid Arthritis - Inquiry about Rheumatoid Factor and Other Related Data? Hello, Doctor Gao. I apologize for the lengthy message. Here are my health examination data from three tests conducted at the same laboratory: - Date: 2023/11/11, 2024/6/15, (2024/4/30) - ALT/SGPT (L...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. I underwent tests related to immune system diseases at a regional hospital in December 2023, and my rheumatoid arthritis (RA) factor was less than 5 at that time. Additionally, the measurement taken on April 30, 2024,...[Read More] Understanding RA Factor Changes and Related Health Concerns
Managing Lupus: Weight Loss, Muscle Cramps, and Tattoo Safety
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) Hello Doctor: 1. I am a patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). I would like to ask if it is normal for me to feel very hungry and eat four to five meals a day, despite having a light diet, while still losing weight after being diagnos...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I am an SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) patient. I would like to ask if it is normal for me to feel very hungry and eat four to five meals a day, even though I have been eating a light diet and have been on medica...[Read More] Managing Lupus: Weight Loss, Muscle Cramps, and Tattoo Safety
Unsteady and Dizzy: Understanding Balance Issues in Autoimmune Conditions
Feeling unsteady and unable to maintain balance at all times? Hello, doctor. I have rheumatoid arthritis, and one day after sitting in the same position for too long, I suddenly felt dizzy, weak, and cold, almost fainting. After seeking medical attention, I have been experiencing...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If you are continuously undergoing medication management and follow-up treatment, it is advisable to return to your rheumatologist. This visit can help assess for any potential medication side effects and evaluate for cervical spine compression ...[Read More] Unsteady and Dizzy: Understanding Balance Issues in Autoimmune Conditions
Can You Catch Rheumatoid Arthritis from Touching an Infected Area?
Inquiry Consultation Hello, Dr. Gao: I have limited understanding of rheumatoid arthritis, so I would like to seek your professional opinion. My question is as follows: Q. If my hand comes into contact with a patient who has rheumatoid arthritis, and that patient shows obvious sy...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello. Thank you for your inquiry. Rheumatoid arthritis is not contagious, so there is no need to worry. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about you.[Read More] Can You Catch Rheumatoid Arthritis from Touching an Infected Area?
Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Symptoms, Medication Concerns, and Risks
Symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome and medication issues? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome two years ago, initially experiencing only dry mouth. By June, I developed stiffness in my finger joints (sometimes only in the morning, sometimes lasting half a ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Based on the blood test report and the current symptom of dry mouth, do I need to take quinine? If I do not take it, what potential complications might arise in the future? (I have been hesitant to take medication sinc...[Read More] Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Symptoms, Medication Concerns, and Risks
Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis: Treatment Options and Concerns
Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about psoriatic arthritis. Thank you? Hello Doctor, last year I experienced pain in my right wrist and consulted a physician at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital. The doctor informed me that it might be psoriatic arthritis. I have been t...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. I researched online and feel that my symptoms are very similar to rheumatoid arthritis, but during my initial consultation, the anti-citrullinated protein antibody test came back normal. The doctor said it is not rhe...[Read More] Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis: Treatment Options and Concerns
Understanding Immune System Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Immune system issues Hello, Doctor Gao. I have a few questions to ask you, and I appreciate your help. 1. At the beginning of August, I developed a urinary tract infection and took antibiotics for two weeks. The symptoms disappeared, and I thought I was cured, so I didn't ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe there is a high possibility of reactive arthritis, especially considering your age and the occurrence of acute prostatitis along with unexplained joint effusion and swelling. I recommend that you consult a rheumatologist nearby. The Al...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Understanding Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Blood Tests and Symptoms Explained
Rheumatoid-related inquiries? Hello, Dr. Gao. I previously asked you about rheumatoid-related issues (pain in both wrists) on September 11. The blood test results are out, and I also had an X-ray of my hands. The rheumatologist said there were no issues. I would like to ask you a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: Question 1: In the case of early rheumatoid arthritis, is it possible for blood test results to be normal and X-rays to show no signs? --> Yes, that can happen. Question 2: What does the quantitative result in the b...[Read More] Understanding Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Blood Tests and Symptoms Explained
Understanding RA Diagnosis: Interpreting Joint Ultrasound Results
Is it confirmed? I started seeing a rheumatologist at the end of last year (2022) due to morning stiffness in my fingers. My rheumatoid factor test results have been inconsistent, showing both positive and negative results. The only relatively consistent finding is from the ultra...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Currently, the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) still requires a comprehensive evaluation based on multiple test results, as relying on a single data point has lower accuracy. However, given the number of inflamed and painful joints you ha...[Read More] Understanding RA Diagnosis: Interpreting Joint Ultrasound Results
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
Understanding the Link Between Anxiety and Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk
The likelihood of anxiety-induced rheumatoid arthritis? Hello Doctor, I previously asked you questions related to rheumatoid issues. I have health anxiety and had blood tests for rheumatoid-related checks last November. At that time, the doctor said the results were normal and ad...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. First of all, I'm not sure where you saw that "people who are under long-term stress have a 176 times higher chance of developing rheumatoid arthritis compared to normal individuals." In my knowledge and the relevant literature, ...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Anxiety and Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Early Diagnosis and Concerns at 20
Rheumatoid arthritis Hello, doctor. I would like to ask: 1. In your clinical experience, are there many cases of rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed around the age of 20? 2. Does having rheumatoid arthritis always lead to joint deformities? 3. Is rheumatoid arthritis still considered ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. In your clinical experience, are there many cases diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis around the age of 20? --> Relatively few; it is more common in middle-aged women. 2. Will joints definitely deform after deve...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Early Diagnosis and Concerns at 20
Chronic Dry Mouth and Tongue Pain: Unraveling the Mystery of Symptoms
Dry mouth and tongue pain for many years without a definitive diagnosis? Hello Doctor, my mother has been experiencing symptoms of reduced saliva for about 30 years. She has seen dentists, rheumatologists, and family medicine doctors, and underwent a sublingual gauze test which c...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. My suggestions are as follows: 1. You may consider returning to a rheumatology clinic for evaluation. If necessary, a salivary gland biopsy may indeed be required, as sometimes the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome necessitates this examina...[Read More] Chronic Dry Mouth and Tongue Pain: Unraveling the Mystery of Symptoms
Could My Symptoms Indicate Rheumatoid Arthritis? A Follow-Up Inquiry
Please provide the content you would like me to translate? Hello Doctor: I have a few more questions. The pain I've been experiencing has decreased over the past few days, and my joints have never been swollen; the sharp pain lasts only a few seconds and disappears with slig...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I don't believe it is rheumatoid arthritis. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.[Read More] Could My Symptoms Indicate Rheumatoid Arthritis? A Follow-Up Inquiry
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms and Diagnostic Insights
Rheumatoid Arthritis? Hello, doctor. I tend to worry a lot about my health. Following my last examination, the results showed positive cryoglobulin test IgM (1+), positive fibrinogen RF 13.92 (normal range 0-6), Anti-CCP <4.6 (normal range 0-20), and E.C.P 38.8 (normal range 0...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Based on your symptoms, I don't believe it resembles rheumatoid arthritis. Firstly, your rheumatoid factor (RF) is not significantly elevated, and your anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) levels are normal. Additionally, your symp...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms and Diagnostic Insights
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Anxiety and Joint Pain Connection
Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello, Doctor. I have a tendency towards anxiety and hypochondria. Last October, I visited a doctor because my fingers would stiffen when I was nervous, and I often experienced joint pain. Initially, I consulted a neurosurgeon who examined me and suggested th...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Can the test results change from normal to abnormal after six months? --> Yes, changes may occur. 2. Does the doctor think it's necessary for me to see a rheumatologist again? --> Your symptoms are mild, s...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Anxiety and Joint Pain Connection
Understanding Rheumatoid Factor: Implications for Your Health
Rheumatoid arthritis factor Hello, doctor. I am a patient with ulcerative colitis, and my intestinal mucosa has recovered. Recently, after being diagnosed with COVID-19, I developed skin vasculitis on my calves. I went to the hospital for examination and blood tests, and the vasc...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Although the RF-IgM value is somewhat elevated, it is not significantly high. We generally consider values exceeding four times the upper limit of normal to be more meaningful. Therefore, if you only have the symptoms mentioned in your text, I r...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Factor: Implications for Your Health
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms: A Patient's Journey
Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. At the beginning of this year, I started experiencing pain in my knee joint and consulted a rheumatologist who performed a physical examination and said everything was fine. La...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe that after the onset of joint symptoms followed by neurological symptoms, it is advisable to: 1. Return to the rheumatology department for a reevaluation by the physician. Rheumatic diseases can present with both joint and neurologica...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms: A Patient's Journey
Medication Consultation for Persistent Skin Allergies and Joint Concerns
Rheumatoid Arthritis Medication Consultation I have been suffering from skin allergies for over six months, with daily recurrences upon waking up. I believe it is dyshidrotic eczema, but it is very deep and extremely itchy. The outer layer has scabbed over while the inside contin...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. We often use chloroquine in patients with early immune dysfunction or rheumatic diseases. Although you only have allergic symptoms, the elevated ANA antibody levels may lead your physician to be concerned that the cause of your dyshidrosis is n...[Read More] Medication Consultation for Persistent Skin Allergies and Joint Concerns