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?
Assessing Potential Kidney or Spleen Injury After a Back Impact
Impact injury to the left lower back? Hello Doctor: Today while playing with friends, one of them accidentally hit my left lower back with a pillow quite hard (although the pillow is relatively soft). At that moment, there was swelling on my left lower back due to the zipper on t...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Q: 1. Given the left lower back pain due to external impact, it is indeed necessary to consider potential injuries to the kidneys, spleen, mesentery, ureters, intestines, and other related structures. 2. In your case, although there is a skin wound, the absence of hemat...[Read More] Assessing Potential Kidney or Spleen Injury After a Back Impact
Understanding HbA1c Testing: Impact of Blood Donation and Accuracy Concerns
Glycated Hemoglobin Test (HbA1c Test) Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing intermittent itching around the skin near my ankles. I found online that this could be a symptom of peripheral neuropathy related to diabetes. Two years ago, my company's health check repo...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Xiao Lu: 1. The diagnosis of diabetes has consensus standards in medicine: According to the diagnostic criteria from the American Diabetes Association, a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥126 mg/dL after at least 8 hours of fasting, b. 2-hour plasma glucose level ≥200 mg/d...[Read More] Understanding HbA1c Testing: Impact of Blood Donation and Accuracy Concerns
Understanding Hormonal Imbalance: Acne, Weight Gain, and Mood Swings
Endocrine disorder Hello, doctor. For the past few months, I have been experiencing persistent acne that keeps appearing and disappearing. My skincare routine has remained the same, but the acne continues to occur on my philtrum, the sides of my face near the philtrum, chin, and ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your symptoms, it is indeed possible that there is a thyroid issue. I recommend that you first consult with an endocrinologist. If the tests come back normal, it is advisable to maintain a regular routine, avoid staying up late, and engage in appropriate exercise,...[Read More] Understanding Hormonal Imbalance: Acne, Weight Gain, and Mood Swings
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 Anemia: Symptoms, Types, and Improvement Strategies
Regarding issues related to my anemia? I am a male, naturally tall and thin. At the age of 13-14, I was diagnosed with anemia at a general clinic. I have often experienced dizziness, headaches, and difficulty falling asleep for a long time. This condition has improved over time. ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, to differentiate between the types of anemia, a blood test is necessary to examine the size of red blood cells. In Taiwan, there is a higher prevalence of thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia. The symptoms of anemia depend on the level of hemoglobin; generally, if it is ...[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Symptoms, Types, and Improvement Strategies
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks in Public Restrooms
Probability of HIV/AIDS Today, I found blood on the toilet paper in the subway restroom after having a bowel movement, but I already wiped myself with it. Is there a risk of contracting HIV? I heard that it doesn't transmit in the environment, so it should be fine, right? I ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, HIV cannot be transmitted through intact skin without wounds. Therefore, if there are no wounds near the anus, transmission will not occur for this reason. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks in Public Restrooms
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
Understanding Bat Bites: Infection Risks and Testing for Rabies
Hello, I am the original asker of 125792? If you are bitten or scratched by a bat that does not have rabies, does that mean you are not infected and everything is fine? Can the infection be detected during the incubation period? I apologize for asking so many questions and causin...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, in principle, this is the case. If you have any questions, you can directly contact the Centers for Disease Control or consult the 1922 hotline. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Bat Bites: Infection Risks and Testing for Rabies
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Sneezes, Skin, and Surfaces
HIV infection I was at the UNIQLO in the Dajia Shopping Center today and was sneezed on by a male employee. At that moment, I didn't have my mouth open, but I have acne on my face with some open wounds. Am I at risk of contracting HIV? I understand that the HIV virus dies in...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, HIV is primarily transmitted through blood or bodily fluids. It is not transmitted through droplets from sneezing, and the risk of infection through non-bloodied wounds is also very low. Therefore, transmission through casual contact is almost nonexistent. Most cases of HI...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Sneezes, Skin, and Surfaces
Understanding Rabies: Incubation Period and Testing Options Explained
I am the original asker of 125792? Hello, I am the original questioner 125792. I apologize for wanting to clarify a few questions. I have researched a lot online and also asked the CDC at 1922, which said the incubation period is 1 to 3 months. However, I saw on the Department of...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: <Regarding the incubation period for rabies?> A: The incubation period is approximately 1 to 3 months, depending on factors such as the severity and location of the wound. <How long does it take for a human to progress from the incubation period to actual...[Read More] Understanding Rabies: Incubation Period and Testing Options Explained
Can Warts on Your Boyfriend's Hand Be Transmitted Through Kissing?
Warts on your boyfriend's hand can be contagious. Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can be transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact or by touching surfaces that have been contaminated with Is it possible to transmit infections through kissing a...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question of whether kissing and intimate touching can transmit infections, here is the response: 1. According to the Dermatology Expert Health Network (http://www.drskincare.com.tw/Qa/Detail.aspx?ID=52): A. What are viral warts? Viral warts are les...[Read More] Can Warts on Your Boyfriend's Hand Be Transmitted Through Kissing?
Concerns About Early HIV Infection Symptoms: What to Do Next
Concerned about the possibility of early HIV infection? Hello Doctor: After having sexual relations with a sex worker on June 12 (with a condom throughout), I developed a fever (low-grade fever that has persisted until now), dizziness, and muscle aches (first in my shoulders, the...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. You can consult and undergo related examinations at nearby medical facilities that offer anonymous screening. 2. The anonymous screening list is attached.[Read More] Concerns About Early HIV Infection Symptoms: What to Do Next
Understanding the Right Specialists for Bacteremia and Spinal Abscess
For bacteremia and spinal abscess, you should consult an infectious disease specialist and a neurosurgeon? Hello, my father is 60 years old. He was previously hospitalized due to poorly controlled diabetes and was found to have Salmonella in his bloodstream, for which he received...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, Regarding chromium niacin at levels up to 600μg, the side effects of excessive intake are as follows: 1. Skin flushing and itching. 2. Elevated serum uric acid levels. 3. Impaired glucose tolerance. 4. Liver damage. Regarding the presence of Salmonella in the ...[Read More] Understanding the Right Specialists for Bacteremia and Spinal Abscess
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
Elevated Eosinophil Levels: Allergies or Serious Health Concerns?
Eosinophilia Doctor, I recently had a physical examination, and everything was normal except for my eosinophil count, which was elevated. The average range is 0.2-8.4%, and mine was at 9.8%. The doctor mentioned it might be related to allergies, but I don't recall having any...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, we usually consider that an elevated eosinophil count may be associated with parasitic infections or allergies. However, this value should be interpreted in conjunction with the total white blood cell count and your clinical symptoms for a more meaningful assessment. The l...[Read More] Elevated Eosinophil Levels: Allergies or Serious Health Concerns?
Understanding Acute HIV Infection Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Symptoms of acute HIV infection? Hello Doctor, here is the sequence of events and my questions: I understand that symptoms alone cannot be used to speculate whether one has contracted HIV. It has not yet been 12 weeks since the exposure, but I feel quite uneasy, so I hope to alle...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, Regarding the above, here is the response: A: According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids...[Read More] Understanding Acute HIV Infection Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Medication: Key Insights for Patients
Urticaria and Thyroid Medications Hello Doctor: At the end of March, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and started taking methimazole in early April. However, about three weeks into the treatment, I began experiencing widespread itching and hives. The doctor prescribed one ant...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Lin, Please read the following explanation, primarily based on the recommendations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for healthcare professionals in January 2016: Procil® (Propylthiouracil, PTU; 50mg/tablet) primarily works by inhibiting the production of thyro...[Read More] Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Medication: Key Insights for Patients
Understanding Colonoscopy Results: What to Know About Colorectal Cancer
Colonoscopy Hello Doctor, I am asking on behalf of my mother, who is around 50 years old. She had a colonoscopy today, and according to her, the doctor did not see any polyps, but there was a section of the intestinal wall that appeared red with some white areas, which may indica...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello: I can sense the concern of your entire family regarding the polyps. Indeed, certain types of polyps are considered high-risk for the subsequent development of colorectal cancer. However, the absence of polyps does not mean that colorectal cancer cannot occur. Regarding the...[Read More] Understanding Colonoscopy Results: What to Know About Colorectal Cancer
Understanding IV Line Infections: Risks and Best Practices for Pediatric Care
Infection issues related to intravenous (IV) catheters? Dear Doctor, I have a question regarding my 1-year and 1-month-old child. Recently, my child was hospitalized and received intravenous therapy. During the hospitalization, the IV tubing connector became loose and fell to th...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: <Is there a risk of infection from intravenous infusion lines?> A: 1. Two articles are provided for reference. 2. Administering intravenous or intraosseous infusions to patients, especially infants and young children, is an invasive procedure. Throughout ...[Read More] Understanding IV Line Infections: Risks and Best Practices for Pediatric Care