Persistent Positive COVID-19 Test: What You Need to Know
Persistent positivity after COVID-19 diagnosis? Hello Doctor: I tested positive on November 9 and started taking molnupiravir, completing a five-day course. After that, the second line on the test strip became faint, but the next day it started to darken again. As of today, Novem...
Dr. Cai Mingsong Reply:
Patients with complications from COVID-19 require isolation. It is recommended to wear a mask and monitor for any worsening symptoms. You may discuss with your original physician, and if you experience any discomfort or have questions, please consult the infectious disease outpat...[Read More] Persistent Positive COVID-19 Test: What You Need to Know
Understanding Urinalysis Results: What Your Doctor Didn't Explain
Urinalysis Hello Doctor: I recently went to the clinic for a health check-up, and the test results are as follows: 1. Albumin (urine protein) (semi-quantitative) 10 mg/dl 2. Creatinine (urine creatinine) (semi-quantitative) 10 mg/dl (reference range 10-300 mg/dl) 3. Protein (urin...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
UACR = 10/10 = 1 The report result is still normal.[Read More] Understanding Urinalysis Results: What Your Doctor Didn't Explain
Common Questions About HIV Saliva Rapid Testing Explained
Questions about HIV rapid testing? Hello Doctor, I purchased an HIV saliva rapid test two days ago, and the result was negative. I have a few questions about the process, and I would appreciate your help. If there is insufficient sample collection on the test stick, will the C li...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
The accuracy of the HIV saliva screening test is as high as 99%. The sample is collected by gently scraping the gums with a collection swab, and results can be interpreted in about 20 to 30 minutes, making it both convenient and quick. However, saliva testing still has a window p...[Read More] Common Questions About HIV Saliva Rapid Testing Explained
Understanding Your Urine Test Results: Total Protein and Creatinine Levels
Total protein (U) & creatinine (U) Doctor, my test report shows that protein is negative, creatinine is 0.56, total protein (U) is 9.7, and creatinine (U) is 95.36. What do these results mean? Are they within the normal range? Is there anything I need to pay attention to? Tha...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Total protein (U) 9.7 and creatinine (U) 95.36 refer to the levels of total protein and creatinine in your urine. The normal reference range for total protein (U) is less than 14, and your result of 9.7 is within the normal range. There is no established normal range for creatini...[Read More] Understanding Your Urine Test Results: Total Protein and Creatinine Levels
Understanding Your MRI Report: Is It Ankylosing Spondylitis?
I would like to inquire about the MRI report of the sacroiliac joint? Since June, the patient has been experiencing lower back pain and has taken Celecoxib and Sulfasalazine for two weeks without improvement. Blood tests showed: SER: 3, CRP: 0.02. The MRI report dated September 8...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The MRI findings are not typical for ankylosing spondylitis, and given that your inflammatory markers are not significantly elevated and your symptoms have not responded well to anti-inflammatory medications, I recommend discussing this further ...[Read More] Understanding Your MRI Report: Is It Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Could My Blood Test Results Indicate Thalassemia?
Am I experiencing Mediterranean anemia? Hello doctor, I recently tested for anemia and my results are as follows: MCHC 30.5, MCH 19.8, MCV 65.0, RBC 6.71, RDW 16.8, TIBC 356, HbA 97.4%, HbA2 2.6%, HGB H (Positive). Does this indicate thalassemia?
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: Based on the data above, it is possible. Therefore, it is best to seek medical attention at a hospital. Thank you for your message![Read More] Could My Blood Test Results Indicate Thalassemia?
Understanding Allergy Blood Test Results: Is Your Condition Serious?
Allergy blood test report I have been coughing for six months, and recently my nasal allergies have been almost daily, so I had blood tests done, but my lung function tests are normal. The doctor prescribed me an asthma inhaler, and I am hesitant to use it because it contains ste...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. In Eastern populations, asthma often presents primarily as a chronic cough, with typical wheezing being less common. This may be why your physician prescribed this medication. Currently, inhaled corticosteroids are the mainstay of asthma treatm...[Read More] Understanding Allergy Blood Test Results: Is Your Condition Serious?
Understanding Urine Ketones: What Does a 3+ Result Mean for Your Health?
The medical examination report indicates urine ketones at 3+? Hello doctor, in April of this year, I experienced redness, swelling, and pain in my left foot, and a doctor at a clinic diagnosed it as gout (without blood tests). I have a history of gout and usually manage my diet, ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
The production of urine ketones is usually related to prolonged fasting. Please consult a metabolic specialist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Urine Ketones: What Does a 3+ Result Mean for Your Health?
Do I Need Surgery for Gallstones? Understanding Symptoms and Treatment
Is surgery necessary for gallstones? Hello Doctor, I often experience abdominal bloating and discomfort after meals, and this year it has been particularly bothersome. I have been taking medications for my stomach and to relieve bloating. A few months ago, I had severe bloating t...
Dr. Qiu Junwei Reply:
This should be considered symptomatic, and it is advisable to discuss the feasibility of surgery or endoscopic stone removal with your gastroenterologist.[Read More] Do I Need Surgery for Gallstones? Understanding Symptoms and Treatment
Ankylosing Spondylitis or Spinal Degeneration: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Ankylosing spondylitis or spinal degeneration? Hello Doctor: I am the one who previously asked about my case in <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/200623">#200623</a>. My blood test and MRI reports have come back. The blood test report (as mentioned by the ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I previously had an X-ray in the immunology department that showed a slight inflammation in the right sacroiliac joint (there was a bit of whiteness, but it was not obvious). However, the MRI report from the rehabili...[Read More] Ankylosing Spondylitis or Spinal Degeneration: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Understanding Urinary Hematuria and Glomerular Filtration Rate Changes
Urinary occult blood. Glomerular filtration rate? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask about the significance of my urine occult blood test results. Initially, it was 4+, and after 4 months, it changed to 5. Is this an improvement or a worsening for my kidneys? I have a history of ...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Please take the medication as prescribed and follow up regularly. If you have any concerns, please return to the clinic to discuss them with your attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Urinary Hematuria and Glomerular Filtration Rate Changes
Do Antibiotics Affect Blood Test Results for Arthritis?
Does taking antibiotics affect blood test results? Hello, Doctor Gao. I am the questioner with ID 201193. I would like to ask if taking Cephalon capsules (antibiotic), Decan tablets (antihistamine for itching), Acemet capsules (anti-inflammatory pain relief), and Solaxin will aff...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. It will not have any impact. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is here to support you.[Read More] Do Antibiotics Affect Blood Test Results for Arthritis?
Understanding High Insulin Resistance and Blood Insulin Levels: A Guide
High blood insulin levels and high insulin resistance? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my recent self-paid blood tests. My insulin resistance index is 7.1 (normal range: 1.4-2.0), and my blood insulin concentration is 28.65 uU/mL (normal range: 2.6-24.9), which is higher...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello, a fasting blood glucose level of 100 mg/dL is classified as impaired fasting glucose (IFG), which is a form of prediabetes. The diagnosis of prediabetes does not rely on the insulin resistance index or blood insulin levels. There are many reasons for a high insulin resista...[Read More] Understanding High Insulin Resistance and Blood Insulin Levels: A Guide
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter
What is the likelihood of contracting the HIV virus? Hello Doctor: - I had contact with a sex worker on August 16: unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse. - About 3 to 4 days after the incident, I felt a slight tingling sensation on the glans and noticed white or...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-in...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter
Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis Results: CREA and Color Insights
Urinalysis report CREA(U) (semi-quantitative) 100 mg/dL (-) pH 7.5 Bilirubin negative Color Straw (yellow) Glucose negative Ketone negative MALB(U) (...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The difference between yellow and straw-colored urine is minimal, and if there are no other abnormalities in the urine test, I believe it is not a concern. As for urine creatinine, it is related to kidney function, but in young males who consum...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis Results: CREA and Color Insights
Exploring Additional Tests for Persistent Low Hemoglobin in Diabetic Patients
Are there any other recommended tests to be done? Hello, my grandfather is a diabetes patient and was previously diagnosed with rectal cancer. Over the past two years, his regular diabetes monitoring tests have shown that his hemoglobin (Hb) levels have consistently been low (aro...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I recommend arranging a hematology outpatient appointment for the elderly gentleman to discuss with the physician the management of iron supplementation that has not been effective. Autoimmunity, bone marrow hematopoietic function, and tumors ma...[Read More] Exploring Additional Tests for Persistent Low Hemoglobin in Diabetic Patients
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello, doctor. I am 42 years old and have been experiencing occasional dull pain in my sacroiliac joint for the past six months. I have seen both orthopedic and rehabilitation specialists without any improvement. One day, I woke up at 4 AM due ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Am I certain that I have ankylosing spondylitis? --> Currently, the diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis requires not only blood tests but also clinical symptoms. The absence of nighttime back pain is somewhat unusu...[Read More] Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Understanding Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Blood Tests and Symptoms Explained
Rheumatoid-related inquiries? Hello, Dr. Gao. I previously asked you about rheumatoid-related issues (pain in both wrists) on September 11. The blood test results are out, and I also had an X-ray of my hands. The rheumatologist said there were no issues. I would like to ask you a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: Question 1: In the case of early rheumatoid arthritis, is it possible for blood test results to be normal and X-rays to show no signs? --> Yes, that can happen. Question 2: What does the quantitative result in the b...[Read More] Understanding Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Blood Tests and Symptoms Explained
Understanding Foamy Urine: Causes, Concerns, and Kidney Health
Foamy urine issue Hello, Doctor: For the past month or so, I have noticed small bubbles in my urine (sometimes a whole patch when it's severe), most of which disperse and disappear within five minutes, but sometimes a little bit remains for a long time. Additionally, I have ...
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Ms. Huang: The normal value for urinary protein is less than or equal to 150 mg per day. The report for urinary protein can be presented in two ways: one is as a concentration value, such as 100 mg/dL, and the other is as a number of "+" signs, such as "2+&qu...[Read More] Understanding Foamy Urine: Causes, Concerns, and Kidney Health
Understanding Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Next Steps
Suspected ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, I am 28 years old. Initially, six months ago, after a full-body adjustment, I started experiencing stiffness and pain in my back upon waking up, particularly in the upper back (with no issues in the lower back). After stretching in...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Do I have ankylosing spondylitis? --> It would be helpful to check for HLA-B27. Your symptoms have persisted for a while, and chronic lower back pain in young individuals warrants caution regarding ankylosing spondy...[Read More] Understanding Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Next Steps