Daily Lip Care: Effects of Excessive Wiping with Tissue
Lip issues If you wipe your mouth with tissue paper 4 to 6 times a day, it may lead to irritation or sensitivity of the skin around your mouth. Frequent wiping can strip the skin of its natural oils, potentially causing dryness, chapping, or even dermatitis. It's important t...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: The pressure applied while rubbing should not be excessive, so there should be no problem. However, if this behavior persists, you may want to seek medical attention at a hospital. Thank you for your message![Read More] Daily Lip Care: Effects of Excessive Wiping with Tissue
Can Wearing a Used Bracelet Increase HIV Infection Risk?
Concerns about the risk of HIV infection? Hello, doctor! A few years ago, I purchased a clasp-style bracelet from a small online seller (which seems to have gone out of business since). After I put it on, I accidentally pinched the skin on my arm, which was very painful and cause...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is unlikely to indicate an HIV infection. However, if you are feeling very uncomfortable, you may consider getting tested for HIV. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can Wearing a Used Bracelet Increase HIV Infection Risk?
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Shared Soap in Hotels
Risk of HIV Infection Hello Doctor: I would like to ask you about an anxiety issue I have. Many years ago, while traveling with classmates and staying at a hotel, I forgot to bring my bathing supplies. I mistakenly thought there was soap on the soap dish, so I applied it to my bo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned does not pose a risk of HIV infection. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Shared Soap in Hotels
Concerns About Hookworm Infection After Stepping in Dog Waste
Stepping barefoot on dog feces? On my way to class today (wearing flip-flops), I accidentally stepped in dog feces without noticing it on the ground. Although I was wearing flip-flops, my foot still came into contact with it. I found some tissue to clean my foot about twenty minu...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the situation you mentioned, the likelihood of a parasitic infection is very low. It is recommended to monitor the condition, provided there are no subsequent symptoms of fever or lymphadenopathy. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Concerns About Hookworm Infection After Stepping in Dog Waste
Understanding Recurring Skin Infections: Causes and Treatments
Skin infection issues? There is a specific area on my calf that has become particularly rough due to prolonged friction with my pants. The skin in that area is darker, approximately 2.5 cm in size. Later, I experienced a sensation of a foreign body, and upon applying pressure, I ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the condition you mentioned is likely folliculitis. You can use iodine ointment or antibiotic ointment. It's important to avoid squeezing or picking at it. Typically, this condition occurs more easily in hot and humid environments, so it's recommended to wear bre...[Read More] Understanding Recurring Skin Infections: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Eczema: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns About Skin Changes
Elbow issues? Hello, I would like to ask the doctor about a condition I've been experiencing. I previously visited a dermatologist and an internist because occasionally I have sudden itching on my elbow. I'm not sure if I've scratched the skin, but it appears to ha...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it does appear to be chronic eczema, which is often caused by frequent rubbing or scratching. The darkening is due to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. As long as you avoid continuous rubbing or scratching, the color will gradually return to normal. Regarding the rash a...[Read More] Understanding Eczema: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns About Skin Changes
Understanding Oral Mucosal Folds: When to Seek Medical Advice
Oral mucosal folds I noticed something unusual when I licked the inside of my lower lip with my tongue. After looking in the mirror, I found fine lines that appear like folds or small cracks, aligned parallel to my teeth, but they do not extend to the sides. I also feel that my l...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding fine lines or unusual sensations, these are more subjective feelings and can be difficult to diagnose. The blisters are suspected to be caused by the herpes simplex virus, which is often triggered by irregular sleep patterns or high stress levels. Therefore, it i...[Read More] Understanding Oral Mucosal Folds: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Oral Mucosal Folds: When to Seek Medical Advice
Oral mucosal folds The inner side of my lower lip feels strange when I lick it with my tongue. After looking in the mirror, I noticed fine lines that appear like wrinkles or small fissures, aligned parallel to my teeth, but they do not extend to the sides. I also feel that my low...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding fine lines or unusual sensations, these are more subjective experiences and can be difficult to diagnose. The blisters are suspected to be caused by the herpes simplex virus, which is often triggered by irregular sleep patterns or high stress levels. Therefore, i...[Read More] Understanding Oral Mucosal Folds: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Connection to Autoimmune Antibodies
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Antinuclear Antibodies Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you: 1. I have been experiencing knee joint pain for a while (but there is no redness or swelling). It hurts when I am at rest, and sometimes other bones in my lower body also ache slightly. I am ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I have been experiencing knee joint pain for a while (but without redness or swelling). It hurts when I am not moving, and sometimes other bones in my lower body also ache slightly. I am unsure if this is an early sy...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Connection to Autoimmune Antibodies
Is the Black Spot on My Neck a Side Effect of Quinine?
Pigmentation changes caused by quinine use? I have systemic lupus erythematosus and regularly take quinine (1.5 tablets/day). Recently, I noticed an unfamiliar black spot on the right side of my neck, approximately 2x3 cm in size. I'm unsure if this could be a side effect of...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The pigmentation caused by quinine primarily results in a darker skin tone, and it rarely leads to isolated dark spots. We recommend that you schedule an earlier follow-up appointment. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department at Chan...[Read More] Is the Black Spot on My Neck a Side Effect of Quinine?
Understanding Skin Changes Around the Mouth: What You Need to Know
Issues around the mouth? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about something I noticed recently. While shaving in the morning, I suddenly realized that the skin on the area where my beard is seems to appear whiter. Is this normal? I previously saw on TV that some people suddenly b...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your image, there doesn't appear to be any significant whiteness. If there are no notable protrusions or pain, it is advisable to simply monitor the situation. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Skin Changes Around the Mouth: What You Need to Know
Understanding Raynaud's and Scleroderma: Challenges in Major Illness Claims
Raynaud's phenomenon and scleroderma are considered significant illnesses that are not eligible for disability claims? Hello, Doctor Gao. After being diagnosed with COVID-19 this year, I suddenly noticed abnormalities in my fingers. After researching online, I found informat...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The treatment for scleroderma is primarily based on the extent of its impact on vital organs. If you only have Raynaud's phenomenon with mild symptoms, you might want to discuss with your physician the necessity of using off-label medicati...[Read More] Understanding Raynaud's and Scleroderma: Challenges in Major Illness Claims
Understanding the Causes of Painless Red Spots on Skin
Small red spots appear on the skin? Since the beginning of the year, I have been experiencing painless and itchless small red spots under the skin (which disappear when pressed). Blood tests for platelet count and liver function (including tests for sexually transmitted diseases)...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
It is recommended to visit a dermatologist. If blood tests are normal and there is no diagnosis, a biopsy may be considered for further differential diagnosis. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Painless Red Spots on Skin
Understanding Gas Buildup and Skin Sensations in Dialysis Patients
Hemodialysis Hello, Dr. Lin! I am a dialysis patient and have been undergoing hemodialysis for nearly four years. In the past one to two years, I have been experiencing excessive flatulence during each dialysis session, and I also frequently pass gas during non-dialysis times. Is...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: Gastrointestinal function issues are common among dialysis patients, primarily caused by renal toxins leading to gastrointestinal dysfunction. As for the skin tingling problem, it is advisable to first discuss with your nephrologist whether it is related to your dialysis c...[Read More] Understanding Gas Buildup and Skin Sensations in Dialysis Patients
Understanding Post-Dialysis Symptoms: Gas and Skin Sensations Explained
Post-hemodialysis condition Hello, Doctor Wu! I am a dialysis patient and have been on hemodialysis for nearly four years. In the past year or two, I have been experiencing excessive flatulence during each dialysis session, and I also frequently pass gas during non-dialysis times...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
It is not recommended to eat during dialysis sessions, as it can lead to digestive discomfort. Please discuss the issue of sweating with your dialysis physician, as it is not directly related to nephrology. You may want to follow up with a dermatologist. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Post-Dialysis Symptoms: Gas and Skin Sensations Explained
Common Health Concerns: Food Safety, Skin Issues, and Child Hygiene
Please consult a doctor? Hello, Doctor. 1. If a bag containing food is placed on the footrest of a motorcycle, will the food inside the bag be contaminated with bacteria or be unclean? I'm concerned because shoes are often placed on the footrest, so I'm worried about ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The main concern is the spoilage of food that has been stored for too long. As long as it is sealed properly, the location should not significantly affect it. 2. Hello, this is likely due to low temperatures causing skin cracking. I recommend applying some moisturiz...[Read More] Common Health Concerns: Food Safety, Skin Issues, and Child Hygiene
Do You Need to Clean Your Motorcycle After Hitting an Animal?
Is special cleaning necessary? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask: 1. If I am unsure whether my motorcycle has run over an animal carcass or dirty substances, is there a risk of diseases or bacteria on the area where my foot has touched the motorcycle tire? 2. If I am certain that...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned should not lead to an infection as long as you wash your hands frequently and avoid scratching your skin. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Do You Need to Clean Your Motorcycle After Hitting an Animal?
Risk of Hepatitis B Transmission After Accidental Blood Exposure
Hepatitis B transmission issues? Hello, doctor: I have received the hepatitis B vaccine and have tested positive for antibodies (surface antibody 81, core antibody 0.10). A few days ago, while changing the dressing for an uncle with liver cirrhosis at the hospital, I accidentally...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/Page/jlS2jBHpodI34ATlKUy3oQ): (1) Mode of Transmission: Hepatitis B surface antigen can be found in body fluids and secretions, but only blood, semen, and vaginal secretions are inf...[Read More] Risk of Hepatitis B Transmission After Accidental Blood Exposure
Can Gout Recur Days After First Attack in Patients with No History?
Is it possible for someone with no history of gout to experience a recurrence of symptoms just a few days after the first attack? Hello Doctor, thank you for taking the time to answer my questions. My mother, who is 72 years old, has high blood pressure and her height is 153 cm w...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Gout can indeed have recurrent attacks in a short period of time. Gout attacks typically present with redness and heat, so the absence of these symptoms does lower the likelihood. Eating shiitake mushrooms is fine, and consuming fish is also ac...[Read More] Can Gout Recur Days After First Attack in Patients with No History?
Understanding High ANA Levels: Impact on Pregnancy and Miscarriage
Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) Hello Doctor, I would like to ask a question. I previously experienced a pregnancy loss due to fetal cardiac arrest. After that, I went to the rheumatology and immunology department for blood tests and found that my ANA (antinuclear antibody) level wa...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. There are many reasons for fetal demise, and immune dysfunction is just one small factor. In cases related to immune dysfunction, it is important to consult with your physician, as there are other tests that can be performed in addition to the ...[Read More] Understanding High ANA Levels: Impact on Pregnancy and Miscarriage