Addressing Medication Concerns in Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
Medication-related issues in ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, I am #191834, and I have some additional questions to ask you. Thank you for your help: 1. I have been taking Silenor for about six months, but I feel it is not very effective. What should I do? 2. My doctor did...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I have been taking Silodosin for about six months, but I feel it is not very effective. What should I do? --> Please discuss this with your prescribing physician, as there are other medications available. If neces...[Read More] Addressing Medication Concerns in Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
Risk of HIV Infection from Skin Breaks During Sexual Contact
Inquiry about HIV infection? If there is a broken skin in the groin area and sexual intercourse occurs with a sex worker, is there a risk of infection if the broken skin comes into contact with vaginal fluids?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, regarding the depth of the wound, deeper lacerations do carry certain risks. If you are unable to confirm the situation, it is advisable to undergo sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Risk of HIV Infection from Skin Breaks During Sexual Contact
Understanding ANA Testing in Relation to Lupus and Allergies
Regarding ANA testing in systemic lupus erythematosus? Hello, around September 2022, I experienced redness and itching on my face and scalp, along with peeling skin and increased hair loss. I also felt fatigued and had difficulty concentrating. However, I did not have joint pain ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Although the ANA test result is negative, considering that the butterfly rash appeared in September, which was four months ago, how accurate is this blood test? Can systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a negative ...[Read More] Understanding ANA Testing in Relation to Lupus and Allergies
Risk of Infection from a Doll's Needle: What You Need to Know
Stabbed by a doll's pin? Today, while unpacking a package that arrived from China, I took out a doll and didn't notice that the pin at the back was open, which pricked me. Upon closer inspection, I found that the wound only scratched the skin and there was no bleeding. ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if a needle has definitely been used on someone else before being used again, tests will be conducted for HIV, syphilis (VDRL or RPR), HBV, and HCV. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Risk of Infection from a Doll's Needle: What You Need to Know
Understanding Positive ANA and Normal Complement Levels in SLE Concerns
ANA positive homogeneous 1:160+ with normal C3 and C4 complement levels? Hello Doctor: Recently, I developed hives and visited the rheumatology and immunology department. After blood tests, it was found that my ANA was positive with a homogeneous pattern at 1:160. Other tests for...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. A positive ANA (antinuclear antibody) test can occur in healthy individuals as well. To confirm this possibility, we will investigate the reasons for a positive ANA, including the series of tests you mentioned. If these tests return negative res...[Read More] Understanding Positive ANA and Normal Complement Levels in SLE Concerns
Can Toilet Bugs Cause Infections? Understanding Risks and Precautions
Can it cause an infection? Hello doctor, I have noticed small flying insects around the toilet or on the toilet wall, but I'm not sure what kind of insects they are. Could this pose a risk of infection to my intimate areas or anus? I'm concerned about whether these inse...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the contact with flying insects on the skin does not pose a significant risk of infectious diseases to the human body. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Can Toilet Bugs Cause Infections? Understanding Risks and Precautions
Understanding Skin Irritations and Vaccine Mixing: Your Health Questions Answered
Please ask your question? Hello, I would like to ask the doctor about a slight itch on my elbow, where I have two or three small bumps. I'm wondering if this is due to an insect bite or some unusual disease. I happened to come across information about HIV, but I have not eng...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Based on your images, it is likely folliculitis or eczema; however, it should not be caused by HIV. A definitive diagnosis may require evaluation by a dermatologist. 2. Hello, I recommend receiving the Moderna next-generation vaccine, as there are no concerns regard...[Read More] Understanding Skin Irritations and Vaccine Mixing: Your Health Questions Answered
Common Health Concerns: Hygiene, Skin Irritation, and Infection Risks
May I ask the doctor? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a few questions: 1. Is there a concern about the transmission of sexually transmitted infections from the doorknobs of public restrooms or private bathrooms? 2. Can hot shower water or frequent wiping of the anal area cause...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The chance of infectious disease transmission is very low. 2. If you rub too vigorously, it can indeed cause skin inflammation. 3. Most pathogens can be eliminated. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Common Health Concerns: Hygiene, Skin Irritation, and Infection Risks
Should You Worry About Small Bumps Under Your Armpit?
Please ask your question? Hello, today while taking a shower, I suddenly noticed one or two very small bumps near my armpit. I'm worried that they might be something unusual. Could it just be that I'm cold and got goosebumps? However, it also resembles something I have ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description and the images, it appears to be a skin gland, which is a normal physiological structure. There's no need to worry. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Should You Worry About Small Bumps Under Your Armpit?
Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Concerns and Recommendations
Abnormal rheumatoid factor? Hello Doctor, I recently had a health check-up and my RF factor was abnormally high. I am currently under follow-up care (all other tests are normal and there is no inflammation), and I do not have symptoms such as redness, swelling, or pain in my fing...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. Can I undergo aesthetic medical treatments normally? (such as hyaluronic acid injections or radiofrequency therapy.) --> I believe it is fine. 2. Can I practice yoga and engage in exercises that require strengt...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Concerns and Recommendations
Managing Persistent Wound Issues: Insights on Bruises and Blackheads
Wound management questions? There is a small area on my lower leg just below the knee that was originally a grayish color, approximately 2 cm in size, likely caused by long-term friction from wearing pants. One day, I felt a foreign body sensation, and when I squeezed it, a black...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems to be a larger folliculitis, commonly referred to as "dingzi" in Taiwanese. This type of folliculitis does indeed heal very slowly. However, if there is a bacterial infection involved, it may require some debridement and the us...[Read More] Managing Persistent Wound Issues: Insights on Bruises and Blackheads
Understanding White Spots on the Penis: When to Worry and What to Know
Genital issues, may I ask? Hello Doctor, about a year ago I visited a urologist because I noticed a small white spot next to the urethral opening while showering. It is flat and not raised, but it is noticeable at times. Although I have not had sexual intercourse, I do engage in ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the image you provided, it appears that the glandular area is indeed a normal physiological structure. It is recommended to simply monitor it unless there is an enlargement or the appearance of any discharge, in which case you should seek consultation at a urology...[Read More] Understanding White Spots on the Penis: When to Worry and What to Know
Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Back Pain: Do NSAIDs and Exercise Always Help?
Can back pain from ankylosing spondylitis be alleviated by taking NSAIDs? Hello Doctor, my son is 19 years old and has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis for three years. He has undergone relevant blood tests and MRI scans, and the rheumatologist confirmed the diagnosis. ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
For individuals with ankylosing spondylitis experiencing back pain, simply taking NSAIDs along with appropriate exercise may not completely alleviate the pain. It is important to conduct a differential diagnosis to rule out other possibilities. If it is confirmed that the pain is...[Read More] Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Back Pain: Do NSAIDs and Exercise Always Help?
Understanding Injection Complications: Pain and Recovery After IV Medication
Regarding injection leakage? Hello, doctor. A while ago, when I received an injection (not an IV drip, just a regular intravenous injection), the nurse used a machine to administer the medication while I was not present. Before half of the medication was pushed through, my hand s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems to be phlebitis. Some individuals may experience inflammation for a longer duration. I recommend applying a cold compress. In addition to oral pain relievers, you can also purchase anti-inflammatory ointment to apply to the painful area,...[Read More] Understanding Injection Complications: Pain and Recovery After IV Medication
Risk of Infection from Needle Stick in the Operating Room
Possibility of infection Hello, I would like to inquire about a situation in the operating room. There was a small suture needle left on the table after closing a patient's wound. While collecting instruments, I accidentally pressed down on the needle with my hand. At that t...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control data, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infection. 2. Blood tra...[Read More] Risk of Infection from Needle Stick in the Operating Room
Concerns About Needle Stick Injuries in the Operating Room
Stung by a thorn? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about an incident that occurred while I was working in the operating room. That day, a very small suture needle was left on the table, and while collecting instruments, I accidentally pressed on the needle. I was wearing glo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is indeed difficult to determine the likelihood of infection based on your description. In clinical practice, if there is any suspicion of a needlestick injury similar to your situation, we typically follow the needlestick protocol to assess the risk of infection. Thank...[Read More] Concerns About Needle Stick Injuries in the Operating Room
Managing Diabetes: Dietary Tips for Seniors with High Blood Sugar
Diabetes Recipe Hello Doctor, my grandmother is 148 cm tall and weighs 31 kg. She follows a lacto-vegetarian diet and has diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia, with blood sugar levels around 120-140 mg/dL. She takes oral medications for blood sugar and blood pressure in the...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
The dietary principles for diabetes focus on a balanced diet, emphasizing the intake of foods rich in dietary fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. It is important to avoid refined carbohydrate foods, such as sugar, desserts, fruit juices, honey, and sugary beverag...[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Dietary Tips for Seniors with High Blood Sugar
Understanding Internal Itching: Causes and Solutions After Diagnosis
It feels itchy inside the body? Since the third day after being diagnosed, I have not had a fever, but I feel an internal itch throughout my body. It's very uncomfortable and hard to describe; I feel the need to keep moving to feel a bit better. Even before going to sleep at...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is true that some individuals may experience skin rashes due to COVID-19, although the likelihood is low. I would like to know if you are currently taking any medications, as it may be necessary to rule out drug or food allergies. If there are none, then it could be att...[Read More] Understanding Internal Itching: Causes and Solutions After Diagnosis
Understanding Skin Rashes and Elevated C4 Complement Levels
Generalized urticaria and elevated C4 complement levels? Hello doctor, I noticed many small papules on my body on October 9th, particularly on my arms and legs. They are not painful, but sometimes itchy (I'm not sure if it's due to friction from clothing). I had blood d...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Elevated C4 levels can occur when the body is experiencing discomfort, including infections. Generally speaking, elevated complement C3 and C4 levels are usually not concerning, while low levels often indicate abnormalities in immune function. ...[Read More] Understanding Skin Rashes and Elevated C4 Complement Levels
Understanding Hormonal Imbalance: When to See a Specialist
Endocrine disorder Hello, Doctor: I visited the obstetrics and gynecology department in April and was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Due to not having my period for several months, the doctor prescribed Norethindrone 5.705 mg to be taken twice daily for 14 days....
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: You can first consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist. Inform them of your condition completely, and then ask if you need to see any other specialists.[Read More] Understanding Hormonal Imbalance: When to See a Specialist