Understanding Autoimmune Disorders: Questions to Ask Your Doctor
Immune system? Hello, Doctor: I previously asked you about issues related to rheumatology and immunology, specifically about skin pain and itching. I believe I may have lupus erythematosus, and the doctors have suggested further monitoring. The patient has been experiencing persi...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is autonomic nervous system dysfunction included in immune system diseases, or should I consult another specialty? --> Autonomic nervous system dysfunction is not related to the immune system, but immune system di...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Disorders: Questions to Ask Your Doctor
Understanding Autoimmune Disorders: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Immune system diseases Hello Doctor, I apologize for the lengthy message. This past March, I experienced a persistent low-grade fever for a month and had blood tests done, which indicated elevated immune system markers suggesting rheumatoid arthritis. I was then referred to a r...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. Should taking quinine prevent fever? I informed you that I had a fever for a while that day! But if I haven't been examined, which department should I consult to find out where the inflammation is? --> Fever ...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Disorders: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Choosing the Right Specialist for Allergic Rhinitis: ENT vs. Immunology
Allergic rhinitis Should I see an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist or a Rheumatologist? I noticed that after my last visit to the ENT, I wasn't scheduled for a follow-up appointment, but the Rheumatology department keeps scheduling my next visits. Which specialty shoul...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I personally believe that if rhinitis requires localized treatment, you can consult an otolaryngologist. If symptoms persist and long-term medication is needed, both specialties can assist. If your symptoms improve and medication use decreases, ...[Read More] Choosing the Right Specialist for Allergic Rhinitis: ENT vs. Immunology
Persistent Skin Rashes: Allergies or Immune System Issues?
Environmental stimuli and mosquito bites causing a rash that has not improved over time? Hello, I would like to ask about my friend who is 27 years old. In July, he worked in a central kitchen, which is a humid and hot environment, handling food while wearing gloves. After just s...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. My answer is as follows: Q: I would like to ask if this is considered an immune system issue? Because he only develops new red rashes on his right arm where he was bitten by mosquitoes initially, and it's not without reason that the rash...[Read More] Persistent Skin Rashes: Allergies or Immune System Issues?
Risk of Syphilis Infection from Blood Contact: What You Need to Know
Syphilis skin contact infection Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about an incident that occurred during my internship at the hospital. While removing an IV from a patient, my fingertip accidentally came into contact with the blood of a patient diagnosed with syphilis. At that m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if there is no puncture wound, simple intact skin contact with blood does not lead to syphilis infection unless there is a needle stick injury. In the case of a needle stick injury, it is necessary to follow the needle stick protocol, which includes testing for syphilis an...[Read More] Risk of Syphilis Infection from Blood Contact: What You Need to Know
Risk of HIV Infection from Beach Injuries: What You Need to Know
Stepped on something prickly on the beach? Hello doctor, I would like to ask a question. Previously, I stepped on something sharp at the beach and didn't pay attention to what it was. If I stepped on a needle or sharp object, is there a risk of HIV infection? Thank you.
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if you really stepped on a needle and it pierced your skin, you would likely experience noticeable pain and bleeding. Based on your description, it shouldn't be a case of stepping on a needle. As for the risk of contracting HIV from stepping on other debris, the chanc...[Read More] Risk of HIV Infection from Beach Injuries: What You Need to Know
Understanding Loud Breathing: Causes and When to Seek Help
Regarding respiratory issues? Hello, doctor. I have a question. Sometimes my breathing sounds very loud (not during sleep). It's like after normal breathing, there will suddenly be a loud exhalation, and it feels like I have a tightness in my chest and can't breathe out...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Regarding respiratory sounds, being overweight can cause airway compression, which may lead to wheezing or audible breathing. If you are feeling very uncomfortable, you can visit an outpatient clinic for an X-ray to confirm that your lungs are in good condition. If it...[Read More] Understanding Loud Breathing: Causes and When to Seek Help
Assessing Infection Risks After Unprotected Oral Sex: Key Considerations
Is there a risk of infection? Hello doctor, today I had unprotected oral sex with an online acquaintance. I know that the risk of transmitting HIV through unprotected oral sex is very low, but today the situation was a bit special. 1. The other person ejaculated on my face, and I...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the two scenarios you mentioned do not pose a risk of HIV infection on the face or hands. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Assessing Infection Risks After Unprotected Oral Sex: Key Considerations
Understanding Umbilical Issues: Causes of Discoloration and Skin Changes
Umbilical-related issues? Can umbilical stones adhere to the navel and cause melanin deposition? Doctor, do you think my situation could simply be due to dirt sticking? I discovered a black spot protruding yesterday, and no matter how much I tried to remove it, it wouldn't c...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, having some moles or dirt on your abdomen is a normal occurrence. It is recommended to clean it using regular hygiene methods and to avoid picking at it with your hands, as this can lead to surrounding inflammation. As for whether it could be cancer metastasis, if it can b...[Read More] Understanding Umbilical Issues: Causes of Discoloration and Skin Changes
Medication Safety for Kidney Disease Patients with Diabetes
Kidney issues, medication safety? Hello doctor, I have diabetes and a kidney disease known as Fanconi syndrome. I have regular check-ups, and my kidney function is about half that of a normal person. I am planning to travel to Xiao Liuqiu and will need to take a boat, but I tend ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Fanconi syndrome is a rare kidney disorder, and only a few physicians have experience in treating it. It is advisable to consult your original nephrologist for appropriate guidance. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Medication Safety for Kidney Disease Patients with Diabetes
Understanding Post-Treatment Reactions to Syphilis: What to Expect
Reactions after syphilis treatment? Hello, Doctor Liao. I went for an anonymous rapid syphilis test on August 13, and on August 18, I was informed that the result was positive for syphilis. On August 19, I made an appointment at the Infectious Disease Department of Pingtung Hospi...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Transmission Methods: 1. Close contact during sexual intercourse and other sexual activities is the primary route of transmission. Direct contact of wounds with secretions, bodily fluids, and other excretions (such as semen, blood, and vaginal secretions) from skin or mucosal les...[Read More] Understanding Post-Treatment Reactions to Syphilis: What to Expect
Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Symptoms and Concerns
Symptoms of elevated rheumatoid factor? Hello, doctor. Recently, I had a blood test that showed my rheumatoid factor was elevated by more than ten times. I later visited a doctor for further blood tests, and aside from a slightly elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate indicating...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. My recommendations are as follows: 1. You should have regular follow-ups, such as every three months. If you experience any changes in symptoms before the scheduled follow-up, including joint pain, skin rashes, fever, etc., you can return for an...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Rheumatoid Factor: Symptoms and Concerns
Assessing HIV Infection Risk from Indirect Blood Contact: Expert Insights
Infection concerns? Hello Dr. Hong, I apologize for asking about the following situation regarding the risk of HIV infection. Last Friday, while waiting for the bus, I noticed that the person next to me had what appeared to be two or three bloodstains, about the size of a ten-d...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, currently there are no reported cases of HIV infection due to coins or masks. It is advised not to worry, and there is no need for prophylactic medication at this time. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Assessing HIV Infection Risk from Indirect Blood Contact: Expert Insights
Assessing HIV Infection Risks in Male-to-Male Sexual Activities
Concerns about HIV infection? Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about the risk of infection during male-to-male sexual activity involving mutual masturbation. During the process, I experienced minor fresh cuts due to dry foreskin. A small amount of my partner's semen dr...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, there is no clear definition of what constitutes a large area wound. Based on your description, the situation is indeed very complex. It is advisable to first confirm with the individual if there are any recent test results. If there are results and they are negative, ther...[Read More] Assessing HIV Infection Risks in Male-to-Male Sexual Activities
Understanding Bruising on Legs: When to Seek Medical Attention
Leg bruising? Hello doctor, yesterday I noticed several bruises on the front of my lower leg (7 or 8 of varying sizes, mostly yellow). I also checked my inner thighs and arms but did not find any bruises. Recently, I have bumped into the corner of a table a few times, but not to ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your photo, it does appear that the likelihood of a bruise is highest due to trauma. If you do not have any history of trauma, other factors such as insect bites, skin itching leading to frequent scratching, vigorous washing or massaging of the legs, etc., could a...[Read More] Understanding Bruising on Legs: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Bruising: When to Worry About Your Symptoms
Leg bruising Hello doctor, yesterday I noticed several bruises on the front of my lower leg (about 7 or 8 of varying sizes, mostly yellow). I also checked my inner thighs and arms but did not find any bruises. Recently, I have bumped into the corner of a table a few times, but no...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your photo, it does appear that bruising is most likely due to trauma. If you do not have any history of trauma, other factors such as insect bites, skin itching leading to frequent scratching, vigorous scrubbing, or massaging of the legs could also cause this phe...[Read More] Understanding Bruising: When to Worry About Your Symptoms
Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Can Infection Occur During Childhood?
Questions related to hepatitis B carriers? I recently learned that my husband is a carrier of hepatitis B after his health check-up. I would like to understand if, apart from vertical transmission at birth, it is possible for someone to become a carrier through infection during t...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: The transmission routes of hepatitis B primarily involve the entry of blood or bodily fluids infected with the hepatitis B virus into the human body through the skin or mucous membranes, particularly into the bloodstream. Hepatitis B can also be transmitted from mother to ...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Can Infection Occur During Childhood?
Understanding HIV Rapid Testing: Clarifying Window Period and Results
HIV rapid test Hello Dr. Hong, I asked you about the HIV rapid test yesterday, but later I realized that the test I took was not the 4th generation ELISA but rather the Abbott rapid test for HIV Ag/Ab p24 Ag (Combo) during the window period of 4 to 5 weeks. Therefore, I am asking...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the Combo test will not affect the results, so you only need to confirm if there was an infection during the 10-day period. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding HIV Rapid Testing: Clarifying Window Period and Results
The Impact of Cetirizine on Kidney and Liver Health: What You Need to Know
Cetirizine and its effects on the kidneys and liver? Hello Doctor, I am a 35-year-old male, weighing 72 kg and 162 cm tall. I have been experiencing redness, swelling, and itching on various parts of my skin, which I believe started after I turned 20. I have consulted many hospit...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is it true that Cetirizine is minimally metabolized by the liver? Could chronic urticaria due to inflammation in the body lead to elevated liver enzymes, and is liver function unrelated to Cetirizine? --> Yes, mos...[Read More] The Impact of Cetirizine on Kidney and Liver Health: What You Need to Know
Concerns About Blood Draw Safety: Risks of Infection from Needle Use
In the areas where hands that have previously touched syringes and needles come into contact, a needle is used to draw blood? Hello Doctor, two days ago I had a health check-up that required a blood draw. The phlebotomist first cleaned my skin with alcohol, then took the syringe ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, although the phlebotomist touched other areas before returning to palpate the vein, the residual alcohol applied earlier still has antimicrobial effects. Therefore, it should still provide some level of disinfection, and it is unlikely to cause a...[Read More] Concerns About Blood Draw Safety: Risks of Infection from Needle Use