Managing Bilateral Hydronephrosis: Insights on Treatment and Kidney Function
Bilateral hydronephrosis Hello Doctor: Due to endometriosis causing ureteral stricture and hydronephrosis, I have had three double-J stents placed in my right kidney over the past four years, with no significant improvement and persistent hydronephrosis. Recent examinations revea...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Dear Friend, 1. The decision regarding the first issue depends on the circumstances. In principle, severely reduced kidney function is not an indication for nephrectomy unless there are recurrent, persistent infections that have led to abscess formation, or the presence of malig...[Read More] Managing Bilateral Hydronephrosis: Insights on Treatment and Kidney Function
Am I Normal? Understanding Itchy Skin and Kidney Health Concerns
Am I normal? I have recently been experiencing frequent itching on my calves, but I haven't noticed any mosquito bites. Sometimes there are small bumps (most of the time there aren't), but they disappear quickly. I came across information stating that uremia can cause s...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss 123: 1. Uremia can indeed cause skin pigmentation and the deposition of metabolic products, leading to a darker skin color and even a sensation of itching. However, it should not be localized solely to the calves as you described. There are many possible reasons for s...[Read More] Am I Normal? Understanding Itchy Skin and Kidney Health Concerns
Post-Thyroid Cancer Surgery: Fertility Plans and Considerations
Post-thyroid cancer surgery considerations for fertility planning? Dear Dr. Hsiao, I underwent thyroid cancer surgery in early October 2015, which involved a total thyroidectomy and partial lymphadenectomy. I received radioactive iodine (I-131) treatment in early November 2015, ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. H: 1. The half-life of iodine-131 is approximately 8 days. You may want to consult your attending physician regarding the dosage at that time to estimate the current residual amount in your body. Logically, from November 2015 to the present, it should theoretically have...[Read More] Post-Thyroid Cancer Surgery: Fertility Plans and Considerations
Understanding Small Vessel Vasculitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention Strategies
Small vessel vasculitis Hello, Doctor Gao! In the past two years, I have experienced small vessel vasculitis three times. The first two occurrences followed a cold, with petechial and macular red spots appearing on the dorsum of my feet and ankles. The third occurrence was of unk...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Delia, thank you for your question. I have summarized your inquiries as follows: 1. Systemic small vessel vasculitis can affect different organs in the body depending on the specific condition. Some forms of vasculitis can also impact the nervous system, leading to limb w...[Read More] Understanding Small Vessel Vasculitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention Strategies
Understanding Hormonal Imbalances: Acne, Hair Growth, and Skin Issues
Endocrine disorder? Doctor, I have acne and pimples on my back and chest, and I also have red bumps and white streaks on my buttocks. Additionally, I have developed body hair on my chest and quite a bit of it, and there are some dark hairs on my cheeks that are not fine hair; the...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you first visit a hospital (not a clinic) to see a dermatologist, and then follow the advice of the dermatologist.[Read More] Understanding Hormonal Imbalances: Acne, Hair Growth, and Skin Issues
Risk of Bloodborne Diseases from Contact with Dried Blood and Mucous Membranes
Is there a risk of contracting bloodborne diseases after coming into contact with dried blood and then touching mucous membranes? Hello Doctor: Here’s what happened: While heading to class, I randomly chose a seat and initially thought the spots on the desk were just graffiti. Up...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question, "Can one contract HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, or hepatitis through contact with dried blood followed by contact with mucous membranes?" A: 1. Generally, blood and bodily fluids lose their infectious capability 15 minutes after leaving...[Read More] Risk of Bloodborne Diseases from Contact with Dried Blood and Mucous Membranes
Understanding Acne on Chest and Back: Hormonal and Skin Concerns
There are acne and pimples on both the back and chest? I have a lot of acne and pimples on my chest and back. I've seen a dermatologist several times and have used medication, but there hasn't been much improvement. People say that high levels of male hormones can cause...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, it seems you have quite a few acne and comedones on your chest and back, as well as some stretch marks on both sides of your abdomen. These are all skin symptoms, and I recommend consulting a dermatologist. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Acne on Chest and Back: Hormonal and Skin Concerns
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
Concerns About HIV Transmission After Protected Sex: What You Should Know
HIV/AIDS issues Doctor, I had an encounter with a sex worker at the end of February. I used a condom throughout the intercourse, but I did pull out after thrusting a few more times. Is there a risk of fluid exchange in this situation? Recently, I've been experiencing frequen...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the question about having sexual intercourse with a sex worker at the end of February while using a condom throughout the process, and whether there would be any risk of fluid exchange: A. If a condom was used consistently, the risk of infection is ge...[Read More] Concerns About HIV Transmission After Protected Sex: What You Should Know
Understanding Bruising and Bleeding: Could It Be Leukemia?
Bruising and bleeding during brushing? Hello, doctor. I have two or three unexplained bruises on my body and I've been experiencing bleeding while brushing my teeth, so I went for blood tests. My white blood cell count was normal, and I had two tests done about a month apart...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Chiu Rong-Ching: 1. Leukemia, also known as blood cancer, is characterized by the abnormal and uncontrolled proliferation of precursor cells of granulocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, or leukocytes, leading to a reduction in normal white blood cells. It includes acute lym...[Read More] Understanding Bruising and Bleeding: Could It Be Leukemia?
Understanding Rabies Transmission Risks and Vaccination Concerns
Transmission routes of rabies? Hello Doctor, on April 1st, I went to Xitou with a friend. On the way, I felt like something dripped on my hand, but I didn't think much of it at the time. After about an hour, while having a meal, I remembered that this area might be a rabies-...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, 1. First, refer to the explanation from the Centers for Disease Control: Transmission methods: (1) Animals infected with rabies have the virus in their saliva, which can enter the human body through bites or scratches (occasionally through skin wounds or mucous mem...[Read More] Understanding Rabies Transmission Risks and Vaccination Concerns
Do You Need to Remove a Skin Tag Near Your Groin?
Polyp Due to cycling, a skin tag has developed in the groin area, and there are some hairs growing nearby. Is it necessary to remove it?
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Please first consult with a surgeon, who will assess the size and location of the polyp, as well as any associated pain, before deciding whether surgical removal is necessary. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hosp...[Read More] Do You Need to Remove a Skin Tag Near Your Groin?
Understanding Hypothyroidism Management in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Hypothyroidism Consultation Hello Dr. Hsiao, my mother is 65 years old and has a history of atrial fibrillation. From March 2014 to July 2015, she was treated with Dronedarone (Multaq). During the treatment, she developed hypothyroidism, and her attending physician prescribed Lev...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear JJ, Based on the information you provided, the medications and units may be as follows: Cordarone® 200 mg (Amiodarone), Eltroxin® Tablets 100 mcg (synthetic Thyroxine), Rytmonorm® 150 mg Film-coated tablets. The lab results are as follows: T3: 0.8 ng/ml (reference range: 0....[Read More] Understanding Hypothyroidism Management in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Understanding Weight Distribution and Healthy Eating for Students
I am a student? Hello, Doctor! 1. I am currently a student with a BMI of over 20, but compared to others of the same height, my thighs and buttocks are noticeably larger (while my waist is relatively slim). Could you explain why this is happening? Are there any methods to impro...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. However, my knowledge in this area is limited, and I may not provide an accurate response. I recommend consulting a nutritionist. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Weight Distribution and Healthy Eating for Students
Understanding GI and Weight Management: Tips for Students
GI-related issues Hello, doctor! 1. I am a student with a BMI of over 20, but compared to others of the same height, my thighs and buttocks are noticeably smaller, while my waist is relatively slim. Why is this? Are there ways to improve it? (I spend most of my time in school a...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. To achieve a good physique, in addition to dietary control, exercise is also essential. 2. Your BMI is approximately 20, so there is no need for weight loss; therefore, questions 3 and 4 are irrelevant (do not trust online information; consulting a nutritionist is the b...[Read More] Understanding GI and Weight Management: Tips for Students
Understanding Weight Loss: Tips for Students on Diet and Nutrition
Weight loss and slimming? Hello, doctor! 1. I am currently a student with a BMI of over 20, but compared to others of the same height, my thighs and buttocks are noticeably larger, while my waist is relatively slim. Could you explain why this is the case? Are there any methods ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Lin: 1. For a 16-year-old female, maintaining a BMI (body mass index) between 18.5 and 23.9 kg/m² is considered good. It would be even better if the waist circumference is below 80 cm. As for a larger hip-to-thigh ratio, there could be many reasons, including genetic f...[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss: Tips for Students on Diet and Nutrition
Balancing Sweet Treats and Health: Tips for Pastry Chefs
Sweets and Body Composition Hello Doctor, I am a chef working as a pastry chef in a French dessert shop. I pay great attention to health, but due to my job, I have to taste every dessert. Of course, I know that sugar should be avoided as much as possible. Could you please advise ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Chen: 1. Generally speaking, one gram of starch produces four kilocalories, one gram of protein also produces four kilocalories, while one gram of fat produces nine kilocalories. Given that you are aware of the ingredients used in the French pastry shop, you should be a...[Read More] Balancing Sweet Treats and Health: Tips for Pastry Chefs
Understanding the Link Between Skin Infections and HIV Concerns
HIV issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if my recurrent back fungal infection or nummular eczema (since I have received differing opinions from two dermatologists) is related to HIV (because HIV causes persistent illnesses). I have had this condition since middle school, an...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: If you have questions about HIV infection, you can consult an infectious disease specialist. Additionally, some hospitals offer anonymous free HIV testing services, which you can inquire about on your own.[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Skin Infections and HIV Concerns
Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Concerns for Women
The abdomen feels bloated, and there is discomfort when pressure is applied? Recently, I have noticed a sudden increase in the size of my lower abdomen. As a naturally slim woman, my abdomen used to be completely flat, but now it appears more protruded than before. When I have a ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Lulu: 1. There are many causes of abdominal discomfort, which are often difficult to diagnose. However, symptoms that physicians tend to pay more attention to include fever and chills, nausea and vomiting, belching and bloating, dry mouth, diarrhea, hematemesis, melena, we...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Concerns for Women