Understanding Low Eosinophil Levels: Causes and Implications
Eosinophil count is low? A low eosinophil count (measured at 0.7) may indicate several conditions or situations in the body. It could be associated with factors such as acute infections, stress responses, or the use of corticosteroids. Additionally, it may suggest certain medical...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello: The elevation of eosinophils during allergic reactions or parasitic infections is not a significant concern.[Read More] Understanding Low Eosinophil Levels: Causes and Implications
Understanding Biologics for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Weight Gain and Edema Concerns
Ankylosing Spondylitis (Biologics) Hello, Doctor: I have ankylosing spondylitis, and since the medication treatment has not been very effective, my physician evaluated my condition and started me on biologic therapy. It has been four months since the treatment began, and I have r...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Currently, there is no clear evidence indicating that the administration of biologic agents causes edema or weight gain as side effects; in fact, the likelihood of side effects is higher with other medications, particularly anti-inflammatory pai...[Read More] Understanding Biologics for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Weight Gain and Edema Concerns
Managing Joint Pain in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Issues related to systemic lupus erythematosus? Hello, doctor. I was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus in early April this year. I have already started taking medication, but I am currently away and do not have the English name of the medication with me, so I cannot pro...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
The diagnostic criteria for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) include: 1. The presence of a fixed erythematous rash on the cheeks, known as a malar rash or butterfly rash; it typically does not involve the nasolabial folds. 2. The appearance of discoid lupus erythematosus lesion...[Read More] Managing Joint Pain in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients
Can Steroids Cause Permanent Immune Imbalance and Pituitary Damage?
Can steroids cause permanent immune system imbalance and damage to the pituitary gland? Hello, due to the doctor's suspicion of asthma exacerbation, I was prescribed a potent corticosteroid, Methylprednisolone, to be taken 4 times a day at 16 mg. However, due to time constra...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Dear Yan Yan, Thank you for your message. The side effects of steroids primarily affect normal hormone function and immune response. The hormones influenced by steroids are typically secreted more in the morning and less in the evening, so it is best to take steroids in alignmen...[Read More] Can Steroids Cause Permanent Immune Imbalance and Pituitary Damage?
Understanding Pemphigus: Treatment, Risks, and Genetic Factors
Pemphigus! Hello, Doctor. Previously, I mentioned my elder's condition, and you suspected it might be pemphigus. My elder has now gone to Taichung Veterans General Hospital for examination and has been diagnosed with pemphigus. I researched related information, and it seems ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Dear Mr. Zhang, Thank you for your email. Generally speaking, lupus erythematosus requires treatment with corticosteroids, and for patients who do not respond well to treatment, additional immunomodulatory medications may be necessary to control abnormal immune function. For mor...[Read More] Understanding Pemphigus: Treatment, Risks, and Genetic Factors
Understanding Moon Facies: Possible Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
What diseases can cause an unusually round and swollen face (similar to a full moon face)? I am a 22-year-old male, and recently while organizing old photos, I noticed that my face appears disproportionately swollen compared to my BMI. I am 175 cm tall and weigh 80 kg. I collecte...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Mr. Kobayashi: 1. Regarding kidney diseases, blood tests and urinalysis can be used for screening, and sometimes additional imaging studies such as ultrasound may be performed to assist in diagnosis and treatment. If, as you mentioned, you only have kidney stones (and ele...[Read More] Understanding Moon Facies: Possible Causes and Diagnostic Approaches
Understanding Membranous Glomerulonephritis: Treatment, Prognosis, and Emotional Impact
Glomerulonephritis The biopsy report indicates membranous glomerulonephritis. Prior to the biopsy, the proteinuria was 1.25 grams, which increased to 2 grams after the biopsy. Following one month of steroid treatment, the proteinuria decreased to 1.3 grams. Due to significant sid...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Membranous nephropathy is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults, with the majority of cases being of unknown origin, while a minority are associated with medications or infections (such as hepatitis B). Treatment and prognosis can be categorized into three types: ...[Read More] Understanding Membranous Glomerulonephritis: Treatment, Prognosis, and Emotional Impact
Understanding Immunosuppressants: Dosage Insights for Autoimmune Treatment
Immunosuppressants Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if a 23-year-old female weighing 48 kg taking Myfortic 180 mg six times a day and Cyclosporine 100 mg twice a day is considered a high dosage? This is for the treatment of an autoimmune disease, and she is also using corticost...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Apple, thank you for your question. Regarding cyclosporine, the dosage will depend on the specific autoimmune disease and the associated health risks. Generally, the use of this medication indicates that the condition requires active control of the immune system, and a comm...[Read More] Understanding Immunosuppressants: Dosage Insights for Autoimmune Treatment
Understanding Joint Pain: Insights on Juvenile Spondyloarthritis
Joint pain issues Hello, doctor. I just learned about this website today and looked into the content regarding juvenile ankylosing spondylitis. I feel that some aspects resonate with my experience, and I hope you can provide me with some guidance. When I was in the third year o...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, based on your description, if you are experiencing joint pain along with swelling in the affected joint, it indicates the presence of a rheumatic disease. Sciatica or bone spurs would not typically cause joint swelling and pain. I recommend that you visit a nearby rheumato...[Read More] Understanding Joint Pain: Insights on Juvenile Spondyloarthritis
Understanding the Link Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Cancer Risk
Rheumatoid arthritis and cancer? 1. What is the relationship between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and cancer? It is said that RA patients have a higher risk of developing cancer. 2. Some RA patients develop cancer; why is that? Is it influenced by their medical history, disease prog...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, 1. The risk of developing cancer seems to be higher in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), particularly for cancers such as lymphoma, which should be monitored during RA follow-up. 2. The evidence linking RA medications to cancer is still unclear. It is currently ...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Cancer Risk
Understanding Prednisolone Use for Gout: Dosage, Safety, and Alternatives
Prednisolone My father (85 years old) has gout and visited an orthopedic doctor who prescribed him prednisolone (2 tablets in the morning and 2 tablets in the evening, each 5 mg). He has been taking it for over a month, and I recently found out that it is a corticosteroid. Is thi...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: The main anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications used to treat acute gouty arthritis include three types: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine, and corticosteroids. The choice among these medications should depend on whether the patient has any con...[Read More] Understanding Prednisolone Use for Gout: Dosage, Safety, and Alternatives
Understanding Hypokalemia: Causes and Kidney Health Concerns
Hypokalemia issues? Hello, Doctor. In December, my blood test showed a potassium level of 3.3. I did not have diarrhea or vomiting, nor did I use diuretics. The doctor prescribed Slow-K BID for three weeks, and when I was re-evaluated in early February, my potassium level had dro...
Dr. Lin Shunfa Reply:
Hello Mimi: 1. It seems that you are quite aware of the possible causes of hypokalemia. The main causes can be summarized as follows: a. Gastrointestinal losses, which are the most common. b. Renal losses due to certain complications of diabetes, autoimmune diseases, hi...[Read More] Understanding Hypokalemia: Causes and Kidney Health Concerns
Managing Cold Symptoms and Breathing Issues with Autoimmune Conditions
Cold with wheezing and chest discomfort? Hello, doctor. I have been taking corticosteroids and immunosuppressants for a long time due to an autoimmune disease. Since I started these medications, every time I catch a cold (which I can feel more distinctly), I experience noticeably...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, user: The need to use bronchodilators to effectively alleviate discomfort from a cold may indicate respiratory issues, which could be related to chronic inflammation, allergies, or autoimmune diseases. It is recommended that you consult a pulmonologist for a more detailed ...[Read More] Managing Cold Symptoms and Breathing Issues with Autoimmune Conditions
Understanding Recurrent Colds: Impact of Steroids and Immunosuppressants
Recurrent colds Hello doctor, I am currently taking steroids and immunosuppressants, but for the past two weeks, I have been experiencing continuous colds, tonsillitis, headaches, and a tight feeling in my chest. I feel chest pain when lying flat, and I become short of breath aft...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, the diseases treated with corticosteroids and immunosuppressants are generally autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. If not well controlled, these conditions can also attack the lungs, leading to lung...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Colds: Impact of Steroids and Immunosuppressants
Understanding Methylprednisolone: Effects on Liver Enzymes and Potassium Levels
Regarding steroids? Currently, due to vasculitis, I have been using methylprednisolone for three weeks. The initial dosage was an injection twice a day (30 mg each time), administered for three consecutive days, then reduced to half the dosage for another three days, followed by ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello: Long-term use of steroids can lead to obesity and fatty liver, which may result in a mild increase in GOT (AST) and GPT (ALT) levels. However, it is essential to rule out the possibility of hepatitis B and C. Additionally, this may cause mild hypokalemia and an increase in...[Read More] Understanding Methylprednisolone: Effects on Liver Enzymes and Potassium Levels
Post-Fever Complications: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Problems that may arise after a high fever? Hello, I would like to ask about my condition. Two days ago, I had a high fever of 39.5 degrees Celsius and visited a family medicine clinic. The doctor mentioned that my high fever could be due to either a bacterial or viral infection....
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Based on the symptoms you described, it does seem to be a respiratory infection. Typically, primary care physicians will only provide medications for symptomatic treatment. From the medications you are taking, it appears that the physician who examined you not only prescribed sym...[Read More] Post-Fever Complications: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Persistent Fever for 19 Days: Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
Fever for 19 days? I have had a fever for 19 days, with intermittent spikes and drops in temperature. Seven days before the fever started, I underwent numerous tests, including WBC, CRP, platelet count, and other related blood tests in the infectious disease department, all of wh...
Dr. Qiu Zhengbin Reply:
Hello: Since your symptoms have not yet resolved and there are still reports pending from the rheumatology department, I recommend that you return to the rheumatology clinic to check for any issues. Wishing you a speedy recovery.[Read More] Persistent Fever for 19 Days: Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Vasculitis Treatment: Key Questions and Insights
Treatment of vasculitis My father underwent cataract surgery on his left eye on April 9, and since then, his vision has been blurry. During a follow-up appointment two days ago, the doctor mentioned that he has vascular occlusion and dilation of the optic nerve. Since November of...
Dr. Qiu Zhengbin Reply:
Hello, I am a physician in the Department of Metabolism at Changhua Hospital. Regarding your concerns, I would like to address them from two aspects. First, you mentioned that your father has experienced a weight loss of 11 kilograms over the past few months, along with fatigue...[Read More] Understanding Vasculitis Treatment: Key Questions and Insights
Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis Medications During Pregnancy
Medication for Pregnant Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Hello Doctor: I am 34 years old and have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis for 16 years. Currently, I am taking 2.5 mg of steroids daily, one Clinoril pain reliever in the morning and one in the evening, one q...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, user: I apologize for the delayed response due to circumstances. The active ingredient in Clinoril is sulindac. Currently, there is insufficient research to confirm its absolute safety during pregnancy; therefore, its use is not recommended during this period. Thank you fo...[Read More] Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis Medications During Pregnancy
Understanding Behçet's Disease: Causes, Effects, and Treatment Concerns
excuse me? What is the true cause of Behçet's disease and how significantly does it affect the body? Is there a correlation between having gastric ulcers and hypothyroidism occurring simultaneously? I am currently receiving weekly steroid injections; are there any side effec...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Behçet's disease is generally considered to be caused by an autoimmune response leading to vasculitis. Gastric ulcers may occasionally occur in this condition, and hypothyroidism can also be classified as an autoimmune disease, which may occur concurrently, although it is no...[Read More] Understanding Behçet's Disease: Causes, Effects, and Treatment Concerns