Medication Guidance After BNT Vaccination: Steroids and Oral Care
Medication issues after vaccination? Hello doctor, I just received the BNT vaccine. Can I apply eczema steroids (Betamethasone) and mouth ulcer medication (Mondesil) that contains alcohol after getting the vaccine? Thank you. Also, if I experience severe mouth ulcers after the va...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: It is generally not recommended to use immunosuppressive medications after receiving a vaccine, so oral or injectable steroids are discouraged. However, topical ointments are absorbed in very low systemic doses, so they can still be used if necessary. Medications for mouth...[Read More] Medication Guidance After BNT Vaccination: Steroids and Oral Care
Understanding Elevated Atypical p-ANCA Levels Despite Improved Vasculitis Symptoms
Elevated ANCA levels in vasculitis? Hello Doctor, I previously had unexplained red spots on both of my calves. After consulting a physician, I was diagnosed with vasculitis. Over the course of about three months, I took antihistamines, corticosteroids, and colchicine, and my symp...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Atypical p-ANCA is less specific and may not necessarily correlate with disease activity. If there are no significant symptoms, monitoring is sufficient. It is recommended to maintain a regular lifestyle and incorporate appropriate exercise to s...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Atypical p-ANCA Levels Despite Improved Vasculitis Symptoms
Assessing Vaccine Suitability for Patients with Low Blood Pressure and Allergies
Issues in Vaccine Administration Assessment I often feel dizzy due to low blood pressure, and sometimes I experience palpitations. Occasionally, the edges of my lips turn cyanotic at night, and I frequently catch colds, which can lead to nosebleeds. Additionally, I have a history...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. For recommendations and guidelines on vaccination for immunocompromised patients, please refer to the attachment: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/ListPage/g9rqm1jhIt65b8sr5Vap8w2. The classification of immunocompromised individuals is as follows: 1. Primary immunodeficienc...[Read More] Assessing Vaccine Suitability for Patients with Low Blood Pressure and Allergies
Navigating Unexplained Symptoms: A Guide to Possible Vasculitis Diagnosis
I'm not sure where to look? The patient has experienced abnormal sensations in the left limb for approximately two years and has had persistent hematuria for over three years, although kidney examinations have returned normal results. There is a mild Raynaud's phenomeno...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Based on your symptoms, I believe it may still be an issue related to immunology or rheumatology. I recommend that you first visit the immunology and rheumatology department at a medical center, where they can arrange for more detailed examinati...[Read More] Navigating Unexplained Symptoms: A Guide to Possible Vasculitis Diagnosis
Post-Vaccine Medication Guidelines: Can You Use Steroids and Alcohol?
Medication issues after vaccination? Hello, doctor. I just received the BNT vaccine. Can I apply eczema steroids (Betamethasone) and mouth ulcer medication (Mondesil) that contains alcohol after getting the BNT vaccine? Thank you. Also, if I experience severe mouth ulcers after t...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Generally, topical medications are not significantly absorbed by the body, so their effect on the vaccine's efficacy is minimal (however, oral steroids may weaken the vaccine's effectiveness). Many people experience various side effects after vaccination, and mou...[Read More] Post-Vaccine Medication Guidelines: Can You Use Steroids and Alcohol?
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Triggers, and Healing Insights
Rheumatoid Arthritis - Condition Monitoring and Questions Hello, Dr. Gao: I have been diagnosed with seronegative rheumatoid arthritis for one year and am currently taking pain relievers, corticosteroids, and immunomodulators (quinine/enteric-coated tablets). My main symptoms are...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I will assume that your condition is "seronegative rheumatoid arthritis" for my response. Here is my summary: 1. After dinner, your fingers swell (and the swelling subsides after digestion). 2. During exercise, your fingers swell (an...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Triggers, and Healing Insights
Understanding Steroid Usage: Timing, Dosage, and Long-Term Effects
Steroid Administration Timing and Dosage Instructions Hello, Doctor. I have systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and I am currently 31 years old. I was diagnosed with SLE and began treatment about 9 years ago. Currently, I take the following medications daily: 200 mg of Plaquenil (...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Regarding steroids, some physicians recommend taking three pills in the morning and two in the afternoon. However, sometimes when I am busier or wake up later, I take three pills within 30 minutes to 1 hour after a me...[Read More] Understanding Steroid Usage: Timing, Dosage, and Long-Term Effects
Can Autonomic Nervous System Disorders Cause Candidal Cheilitis?
Can autonomic nervous system dysfunction cause candidal cheilitis? I have visited the dermatology clinic three times and am currently taking antibiotics and applying Clobetasol (a corticosteroid). The doctor believes it is caused by a bacterial infection, but it has not improved ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Some ointments may appear white after being applied overnight, which does not necessarily indicate dead skin. 2. The use of antibiotics and corticosteroids can indeed lead to a decrease in local immunity, potentially resulting in a Candida albicans infection. However...[Read More] Can Autonomic Nervous System Disorders Cause Candidal Cheilitis?
Do Steroids Affect Blood Test Results in Rheumatology Patients?
I would like to inquire if steroids can affect the results of blood tests in immunology and rheumatology? Hello Doctor: In recent months, the joints in my fingers have started to swell and hurt gradually, making it difficult to bend or extend them, and I cannot apply force. The b...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The administration of steroids may only affect certain laboratory results, including white blood cell counts, but it should have minimal impact on the indicators for rheumatic diseases or allergic conditions. I believe your symptoms include bot...[Read More] Do Steroids Affect Blood Test Results in Rheumatology Patients?
Understanding Urticarial Vasculitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Urticarial vasculitis? Hello, doctor. I have a tendency to be allergic and sneeze (which started about nine years ago). I have also experienced mild urticaria intermittently. However, starting in April of this year, I suddenly developed widespread urticaria. I went to a dermatolo...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. How is anaphylactic shock determined? Although I was experiencing stomach pain, I was still responsive at the time... --> Perhaps "shock" is a bit severe, but you did have swelling of the lips and eyelids,...[Read More] Understanding Urticarial Vasculitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Understanding Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: Risks and Management Insights
Rare disease questions, please help me answer, doctor! Hello Dr. Hong, I apologize for bothering you. Since there is no endocrinology department, I am inquiring about your expertise in internal medicine. My girlfriend was diagnosed during kindergarten with a condition noted in he...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, "Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) related to enzyme deficiency" is a general term that encompasses many related conditions, rather than being a specific disease name. Therefore, the life-threatening risks or fertility issues you mentioned need to be assessed ...[Read More] Understanding Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: Risks and Management Insights
Managing COVID-19 Symptoms: Insights on Treatment and Recovery
Positive rapid test for COVID-19 (continued) Hello Dr. Hong, I am the patient who asked a question yesterday. The PCR results just came out... it is positive for SARS-CoV-2 with RdRp gene: 23.25 and SARS-CoV-2 ORF 1ab: 21.26. Today is the second day, and I continue to take "...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Currently, there are indeed several medications available for use, including for mild cases. However, for high-risk patients, such as those over 65 years of age, monoclonal antibodies can be used for patients with declining oxygen levels. For more severe cases, remdesivir can be ...[Read More] Managing COVID-19 Symptoms: Insights on Treatment and Recovery
Understanding Chronic Eczema: Treatment, Management, and Concerns
Chronic eczema consultation? Hello, Doctor. I would like to consult you about psoriasis. About six months ago, I visited a dermatologist who diagnosed it as chronic eczema. The doctor prescribed two ointments for me. Initially, after applying them, I felt that the flaking had dim...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Chronic eczema refers to chronic inflammation of the skin and is not a specific disease. In contrast, the conditions you mentioned, psoriasis and lupus, are specific diseases that must be diagnosed by a qualified physician based on the overall clinical condition. However, based o...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Eczema: Treatment, Management, and Concerns
Unraveling Mysterious Immune Reactions: Antibiotic Allergies or Autoimmune Disorders?
Is the strange illness experienced personally due to a drug allergy or an autoimmune disorder? Hello, doctor. I have encountered a strange immune reaction while taking medication and would like to ask for your advice. Earlier this year, I was on long-term antibiotics due to a pro...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. I suspect that you may have Reiter's syndrome, also known as reactive arthritis, and I recommend that you consult a rheumatologist at a major hospital. There are several reasons for my suspicion related to this condition, including chronic ...[Read More] Unraveling Mysterious Immune Reactions: Antibiotic Allergies or Autoimmune Disorders?
Understanding Fever Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
Fever symptoms Hello Dr. Hong: I started experiencing chills and high fever ranging from 38.5 to 40.1 degrees Celsius on February 14. Therefore, I went to the outpatient department for hospitalization on February 17, where I underwent the following tests: blood tests (including c...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is indeed difficult to determine the cause of the fever of unknown origin. There are a few points to consider: First, rheumatological and immunological issues may be a concern, which is likely why your physician has suspected this and prescr...[Read More] Understanding Fever Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Lymphedema in Dialysis Patients: Causes and Treatment Options
Lymphedema caused by dialysis? Hello Doctor: My father has a long history of dialysis due to a family history of hereditary diseases. As a result of the dialysis, he frequently experiences various side effects (such as weight loss, dizziness, low blood pressure, nausea, diarrhea,...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Due to the lack of direct examination of the patient, it is difficult to distinguish what you refer to as "lymphedema" from the "general edema" seen in dialysis patients. If it is general edema in dialysis patients, enhancing dehydration should resolve the iss...[Read More] Understanding Lymphedema in Dialysis Patients: Causes and Treatment Options
Managing Adrenal Insufficiency: Addressing Dizziness and Bloating Issues
Adrenal insufficiency I have adrenal insufficiency and recently visited the endocrinology department, where I mentioned issues with dizziness and bloating. The doctor suggested that it might be postural hypotension, but after measuring my blood pressure consistently for five days...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Adrenal insufficiency, in addition to medication, can be managed by incorporating regular exercise, maintaining a normal daily routine, and following a balanced diet, among other healthy lifestyle choices.[Read More] Managing Adrenal Insufficiency: Addressing Dizziness and Bloating Issues
Understanding Vasculitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Dietary Impact
Suspected vasculitis Hello Doctor: My mother is 73 years old and has hepatitis C, an autoimmune disease (Sjögren's syndrome), and dry eyes. She often experiences headaches and upper back pain (which she has had for many years). She has been seeing a rheumatologist and is on ...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, the clinical manifestations of hepatitis C or autoimmune diseases (such as Sjögren's syndrome) can include vasculitis. However, most symptoms present as petechiae, which are typically painless or slightly painful, and itching is rare, let alone severe itching. It is a...[Read More] Understanding Vasculitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Dietary Impact
Does Sjögren's Syndrome Affect Menstrual Cycle or Medications?
The effects of Sjögren's syndrome? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask whether Sjögren's syndrome itself affects the menstrual cycle, or if the medications used to treat Sjögren's syndrome have an impact on the menstrual cycle?
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, the disease of Sjögren's syndrome rarely reports any impact on the menstrual cycle. As for medications used to treat Sjögren's syndrome, corticosteroids can affect the menstrual cycle, while commonly used quinine (also known as chloroquine or Plaquenil) does not ...[Read More] Does Sjögren's Syndrome Affect Menstrual Cycle or Medications?
Managing Steroid Dosage: Concerns Over Accidental Overdose and Dependence
Steroid dosage Hello Dr. Ke: I have been continuously taking steroids due to kidney issues, but I have developed a dependency on them, which has led to fluctuating dosages. Currently, I am taking eight 5mg tablets every two days. However, I accidentally took an extra eight tablet...
Dr. Ke Taiyuan Reply:
When tapering off high doses of steroids after long-term use, it is indeed important to reduce the dosage gradually. However, your current situation involves accidentally taking a little more on one or two occasions, rather than consistently over several weeks. There is no need t...[Read More] Managing Steroid Dosage: Concerns Over Accidental Overdose and Dependence