Can I Breastfeed While Taking Hydroxychloroquine Sulfate 200mg?
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking Hydroxychloroquine sulfate 200mg? I have Sjögren's syndrome and suspected systemic lupus erythematosus. I am currently taking Hydroxychloroquine sulfate 200mg. Can I breastfeed? Thank you.
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, user: This medication can be excreted in breast milk, with concentrations in breast milk being significantly lower than the therapeutic levels in the mother's bloodstream. To date, there have been no reported cases of adverse reactions due to breastfeeding. However, s...[Read More] Can I Breastfeed While Taking Hydroxychloroquine Sulfate 200mg?
Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Managing Symptoms and Treatment Options
Sjögren's syndrome Doctor: Hello, I have been experiencing dry mouth and dry eyes, and I initially thought it was due to menopause. However, blood tests revealed that I have Sjögren's syndrome, and the results for lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are still pending. I am c...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, user: Mild dizziness, diarrhea, belching, and sweating are likely side effects of the medication. 1. If you only experience dry mouth and dry eyes without any other organ abnormalities, you can discontinue the medication and manage the symptoms. 2. It is possible for the m...[Read More] Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Managing Symptoms and Treatment Options
Understanding Hyperthyroidism Treatment: Concerns About Medication Effects
Thyroid medication issues? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my recent diagnosis. I was referred to an endocrinologist for thyroid function tests due to keratitis. My blood test results showed TSH: 0.011 and Free T4: 1.47 (at the normal borderline), leading the doctor to be...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Amy, thank you for your message. I am not an endocrinologist, so I only have knowledge of some medication side effects and monitoring methods. For more detailed monitoring strategies or when to discontinue medication, it might be helpful to compile your questions and discus...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism Treatment: Concerns About Medication Effects
Understanding RA Symptoms: Are They Related to Vasculitis?
Vasculitis? Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)? Hello, doctor. I have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) at a medical center due to polyarticular pain and a strongly positive anti-CCP test. I have been on medication for quite some time. Recently, I have been experiencing recurr...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Based on the symptoms you described, vasculitis is a possibility, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can also lead to vasculitis. However, vasculitis associated with RA typically occurs when medication control is inadequate or treatment is irregular....[Read More] Understanding RA Symptoms: Are They Related to Vasculitis?
Understanding Wrist Swelling: Could It Be Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The bones in both wrists are swollen? Dear Doctor, Hello. For the past two months, I have been experiencing discomfort in my left shoulder, feeling stiff and painful in certain positions, making it difficult to lift my arm. In the last two weeks, I have noticed swelling between ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, Nanxi, thank you for your questions. Here are the answers to your inquiries: 1. Is it possible to have rheumatoid arthritis? Answer: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic form of arthritis, and since your pain has lasted a maximum of only two months, with wrist pain for only ...[Read More] Understanding Wrist Swelling: Could It Be Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Understanding ANA and SLE: Do You Need a Positive ANA for Diagnosis?
ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) and SLE (Systemic Lup Hello, Director Gao. I went to see a specialist in immunology due to joint pain and a rash on my cheeks. After reviewing the overall examination results and clinical symptoms, I found that I meet five of the criteria for SLE diagno...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, ANA is just one of the diagnostic criteria for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). To meet the diagnostic criteria, a patient only needs to satisfy four of the criteria, and it is not necessary to include ANA. Therefore, ANA is not a mandatory requirement. However, the lik...[Read More] Understanding ANA and SLE: Do You Need a Positive ANA for Diagnosis?
Understanding Dry Eyes, Throat, and Tongue: Possible Causes and Solutions
Dry eyes, dry throat, and an unusual feeling in the tongue? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about my condition. Since February, I have been experiencing unusual sensations in my tongue, along with dry eyes and a dry throat. 1. I consulted a rheumatologist, and the tests sho...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, internet user: There are many causes of dry eye syndrome. In the case of autoimmune dry syndrome, in addition to testing for Anti-Ro and Anti-La antibodies through blood tests, if the blood tests are normal, a salivary gland biopsy can be performed. Other immunological tes...[Read More] Understanding Dry Eyes, Throat, and Tongue: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Dryness Symptoms: Eye, Throat, and Neck Pain Connection
Dry eyes, dry throat, and an unusual sensation on the tongue? Doctor, I apologize for the previous message. I have another question. I am experiencing shoulder and neck pain, and I wonder if this could also be caused by Sjögren's syndrome. I have seen both traditional Chines...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, you can confirm that you have Sjögren's syndrome, but the cause may be due to an immune issue or other factors. The report is normal, and you can consider a salivary gland biopsy. Shoulder and neck pain is only caused by Sjögren's syndrome in a small number of ca...[Read More] Understanding Dryness Symptoms: Eye, Throat, and Neck Pain Connection
Understanding Recurrent Unilateral Parotitis: Causes and Next Steps
Parotitis In the past six months, there have been 5-6 episodes of recurrent unilateral parotitis. A CT scan has ruled out the possibility of salivary gland stones. Due to accompanying symptoms of dry eyes and dry mouth, a referral was made to the rheumatology department. Tear sec...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, there are many reasons for recurrent swelling of a unilateral parotid gland, such as chronic sialadenitis, obstruction of the salivary duct, recurrent bacterial infections, and it is also important to be cautious about the possibility of tumors. If the rheumatology departm...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Unilateral Parotitis: Causes and Next Steps
What Can Nailfold Capillary Microscopy Reveal About Your Health?
What can finger bending measure? Nailfold capillary microscopy can be used to assess microvascular abnormalities, which are often associated with autoimmune diseases such as systemic sclerosis or Sjögren's syndrome. In your case, the physician's comment that "it&#x...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, the nailfold capillary microscopy is primarily used to examine the microvascular patterns of peripheral blood circulation in rheumatic connective tissue diseases, particularly for the assessment of systemic sclerosis. Tortuosity indicates that the blood vessels are somewha...[Read More] What Can Nailfold Capillary Microscopy Reveal About Your Health?
Can You Have Sjögren's Syndrome with Normal Blood Test Results?
Sjögren's syndrome I have dry eye syndrome and have tested it with strips. I also have splenomegaly, but it hasn't changed in size over the past three years. Recently, I experienced swelling and pain in my salivary glands, but drinking more water alleviated the pain aft...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, internet user: The two most important pieces of evidence for diagnosing Sjögren's syndrome are the presence of anti-SSA and anti-SSB antibodies. Additionally, a minor salivary gland biopsy of the oral mucosa can be considered. If either of these two pieces of evidence...[Read More] Can You Have Sjögren's Syndrome with Normal Blood Test Results?
Essential Care Tips for Travelers with Sjogren's Syndrome
Friends with Sjögren's syndrome require several types of care, including: 1. **Hydration**: It's important to stay well-hydrated to help alleviate dryness in the mouth and eyes. 2. **Artificial Tears and Saliva Substitutes**: Over-the-counter artificial tears can help...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, if your friend only has dry symptoms without any systemic issues (such as lung or joint problems), they can enjoy this holiday without much preparation. As long as they regularly take the medications prescribed abroad, there generally shouldn't be any issues. If you w...[Read More] Essential Care Tips for Travelers with Sjogren's Syndrome
Understanding White Lesions on the Tongue: Causes and Concerns
Tongue The white objects on both sides at the back of the tongue, each measuring 1x2.5 cm and having some thickness that does not resolve, could be indicative of several conditions. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. Possible causes ma...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello, here is the response to your question: There are many different manifestations of tongue diseases. In addition to diseases of the oral mucosa and the tongue itself, systemic diseases (such as anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, tumors, endocrine disorders, amyloidosis, etc.) can...[Read More] Understanding White Lesions on the Tongue: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Fluctuating ANA Results: Immune Issues Explained
The ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) test results can vary between different hospitals? Doctor, you mentioned that "some immune issues may cause fluctuations in ANA results." What specific immune problems are you referring to? I have lost about 9 kilograms in the past nine mo...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Autoimmune diseases that can cause fluctuations in ANA levels include conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome. However, further diagnostic details must be evaluated and arranged by the attending clinician. For unexplained fevers, after being ...[Read More] Understanding Fluctuating ANA Results: Immune Issues Explained
Understanding Dry Mouth and Sweet Taste: Possible Causes and Solutions
Dry mouth and sweet taste? Recently, I have been experiencing dry mouth and it seems like my saliva production has decreased. Additionally, when I drink water, it tastes somewhat sweet. What could be the reason for this? Thank you for your response, doctor.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, there are many causes of dry mouth (xerostomia), including medications, smoking, side effects of chemotherapy, menopause, and various diseases. Common medications that may contribute include diuretics, antihistamines, psychiatric medications, ...[Read More] Understanding Dry Mouth and Sweet Taste: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Secondary Sjögren's Syndrome and Major Illness Claims
Application for Major Illness due to Sjögren's Syndrome Hello Doctor: I went to National Taiwan University for an examination, and the doctor said I have secondary Sjögren's syndrome caused by a virus. He mentioned that this condition cannot be applied for major illness...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, netizen: According to regulations, only those with secondary Sjögren's syndrome related to autoimmune diseases can apply for major illness benefits. Please refer to the information (autoimmune-related dry syndrome is referred to as Sjögren's syndrome). Thank you ...[Read More] Understanding Secondary Sjögren's Syndrome and Major Illness Claims
Can Western Ginseng Help Manage Cough in Patients with Sjögren's Syndrome?
Sjögren's syndrome Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask for your advice. My mother has Sjögren's syndrome and regularly visits the rheumatology clinic for medication. She often experiences coughing, so she is considering taking American ginseng (known as "粉工" in...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Dear Ms. Lin: 1. For persistent coughing, it is recommended to visit a pulmonology outpatient clinic for examination. Please do not self-medicate to avoid inappropriate treatment. 2. Regarding the medicinal properties of American ginseng, I am not certain. It would be best to co...[Read More] Can Western Ginseng Help Manage Cough in Patients with Sjögren's Syndrome?
Understanding Eye Symptoms and Complications in SLE Patients
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can have various symptoms and effects on the eyes, including: 1. **Dry Eyes**: Due to decreased tear production, leading to discomfort and irritation. 2. **Conjunctivitis**: Inflammation of the conjunctiva, which can cause redness and swelling ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
1. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may be associated with dry eye syndrome, intraocular vasculitis, or cataracts caused by corticosteroid use. 2. Determining whether your dry eye syndrome is related to SLE must be assessed by a clinic physician; currently, there is no blood ...[Read More] Understanding Eye Symptoms and Complications in SLE Patients
Can You Get Pregnant While Taking Quinine? Understanding the Risks
Is it safe to become pregnant while taking quinine? Hello Dr. Tseng: I am currently suffering from Sjögren's syndrome and am taking hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) for treatment. The physician treating me mentioned that taking this medication would not have side effects on pr...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Dear Liti: "Quinine" is classified as a pregnancy safety category "C" medication, which means it cannot be guaranteed to be absolutely safe. While some literature suggests that it may be used during pregnancy with a low chance of side effects, it cannot be ass...[Read More] Can You Get Pregnant While Taking Quinine? Understanding the Risks
Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Navigating Conflicting Diagnoses and Treatment Options
Regarding Shy-Drager syndrome? Hello Doctor: I have many questions that are troubling me, and I would like to ask for your help or suggestions. Last September, I was diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome after visiting a rheumatology and immunology clinic. My blood test results ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, the diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome follows specific standard procedures and cannot be made solely based on a biopsy. The use of quinine in the treatment of Guillain-Barré syndrome is not essential and may not always be effective, so there is no need for concern. Init...[Read More] Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: Navigating Conflicting Diagnoses and Treatment Options