Persistent Symptoms After Negative COVID-19 Tests: What to Do?
Negative rapid test for COVID-19 and normal test results, yet persistent illness? Hello Dr. Hong, First of all, I do not have any chronic illnesses, a travel history, or overlapping exposure to confirmed cases. I live in Taichung City, which is not a hot zone, and I was in good ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, I'm not sure if the two tests you received were rapid antigen tests (ELISA) or PCR tests. If they were antigen tests, there is indeed a high chance of false negatives, and you may need to consider getting an RT-PCR test for confirmation. If both tests were PCR, the ch...[Read More] Persistent Symptoms After Negative COVID-19 Tests: What to Do?
Understanding Post-Pandemic Erectile Dysfunction: When to Seek Help
Pandemic-induced erectile dysfunction I believe I may have been diagnosed, but my symptoms are not very pronounced. I have slight difficulty breathing, a mild fever, muscle weakness, abdominal pain, and incomplete penile engorgement, but I do not have a cough or throat discomfort...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It is recommended to contact the health department or call 1922 to arrange for testing to confirm whether it is a COVID-19 infection, as this is essential for appropriate treatment of the disease. 2. In the event of a positive COVID-19 result, there have indeed been...[Read More] Understanding Post-Pandemic Erectile Dysfunction: When to Seek Help
Understanding Mild Throat Pain: Tonsil Stones or Something More?
Slight pain in the tonsils? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you about some symptoms I've been experiencing. A few days ago, I felt a slight discomfort on the right side of my throat or tonsil, and later I expelled a yellowish substance, which seemed to relieve the discomf...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the condition you described is likely caused by tonsillitis, which is usually triggered by a cold. The chance of cancer is very low. Additionally, some individuals may experience tonsillitis due to factors such as lack of sleep, stress leading to a weakened immune system, ...[Read More] Understanding Mild Throat Pain: Tonsil Stones or Something More?
Could Ice Chewing Indicate a Parasite Infection? Symptoms and Solutions
Suspected parasitic infection? I apologize for the interruption. Recently, I have been experiencing frequent nausea, bloating, and a sensation of something foreign in the upper palate (near the throat), almost like air. I would like to inquire if my habit of frequently chewing ic...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
No, that's not the case! As far as I know, there are no parasites that can be transmitted through ice cubes. The white spots should be evaluated by an otolaryngologist, as they could also be due to other bacterial or fungal infections.[Read More] Could Ice Chewing Indicate a Parasite Infection? Symptoms and Solutions
Persistent Fever for Days: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Having a high fever that has persisted for three to four days without subsiding? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a fever since the first day, with an initial temperature around 38.5 degrees Celsius. I went to see a doctor, who noted that my throat was particularly red. The...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! I apologize for the late response due to the pandemic. First, your situation requires screening to rule out COVID-19, as patients with COVID-19 can present with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and diarrhea. If the screening is negative, the next consideration would be...[Read More] Persistent Fever for Days: Understanding Causes and Solutions
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 Ear, Nose, and Throat Concerns: Common Questions Answered
Please ask your question? Hello, I visited an otolaryngologist a few days ago, but I'm still a bit worried and would like to ask the doctor a few more questions. The ENT specialist said everything looked normal and that the structure is something I naturally have, but there ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the image, it does appear to be normal tissue on the tongue. If an otolaryngologist has also examined it, there should be no need for excessive concern unless there are any unusual changes that warrant medical attention. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Ear, Nose, and Throat Concerns: Common Questions Answered
Persistent Fever for Three Weeks: What Specialist Should You Consult?
Recurrent fever for three weeks? My sister, who is 25 years old, developed a fever at the end of April and sought medical attention. Initially, she had a sore throat, and the ENT doctor diagnosed her with a cold. After taking medication for three days, her fever did not subside, ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
It sounds most like an autoimmune issue. I recommend consulting a rheumatologist, but many details still need to be assessed in person by your sister. You might also consider seeing an infectious disease specialist for further evaluation regarding the unexplained fever. If it is ...[Read More] Persistent Fever for Three Weeks: What Specialist Should You Consult?
Understanding Allergies and Throat Discomfort: Common Concerns Explained
Two questions for inquiry? Hello, Doctor. A few days ago, the weather turned cold, and I seemed to have a runny nose. I visited a nearby ENT specialist who said that my throat wasn't severely inflamed, but my nasal allergies were quite serious, which could cause occasional t...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems you may have pharyngitis complicated by otitis media. I recommend visiting an otolaryngologist for an examination of the middle ear. Regarding the heartbeat sound you mentioned, if there is inflammation in the middle ear accompanied by f...[Read More] Understanding Allergies and Throat Discomfort: Common Concerns Explained
Understanding Post-Cold Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Advice
Feelings after a cold? Hello, doctor. I had a slight cold previously and visited a pediatrician, taking medication twice. Since I didn't feel unwell, I didn't return for a follow-up. However, today while eating, I thought something was stuck in my throat and induced vom...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on the symptoms you described, it is likely that you have a cold complicated by otitis media. I recommend getting plenty of rest, which should help improve your condition. However, if symptoms persist or if you experience complications such as fever, ear pain, increased ear...[Read More] Understanding Post-Cold Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Yellow Phlegm: When to Worry and When to Relax
The issue of phlegm versus saliva? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you about something. Sometimes after staying up late for work or when I drink less water, I notice a slight yellow phlegm when I use my tongue to clear my throat right after waking up. However, it usually happe...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, when the body is relatively dehydrated, it is indeed common to have thicker mucus, which may also appear more yellow. This is a normal phenomenon. It is recommended that if there are no other discomforts, simply rest more and drink plenty of water. Thank you for your quest...[Read More] Understanding Yellow Phlegm: When to Worry and When to Relax
Why Is My Cold Lasting Over 20 Days? Understanding Prolonged Symptoms
Cold not yet healed? I have had a cold for over 20 days and have seen two or three doctors who all diagnosed it as a cold. I have been taking my medication as prescribed, but I am still not better. An X-ray of my lungs showed no issues. I have a mild cough and a sore throat, and ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that your concern may be a persistent cough. Some individuals do experience bronchitis as a complication after a cold, which can lead to a prolonged cough. Additionally, the recent poor air quality can further trigger coughing. I recomme...[Read More] Why Is My Cold Lasting Over 20 Days? Understanding Prolonged Symptoms
Understanding Acid Reflux: Symptoms and Solutions for Relief
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing a sensation of reflux in my stomach, which causes a feeling of something stuck in my throat, and occasionally I have a bitter taste in my mouth. I also have some discomfort in my neck. Cou...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the symptoms you described are indeed typical of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is recommended that you visit a gastroenterology clinic for an endoscopy to confirm the diagnosis. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Acid Reflux: Symptoms and Solutions for Relief
Inadvertently Inhaling Drain Cleaner Fumes: Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Accidentally inhaled the fumes from a drain cleaner? After adding a drain cleaner and cold water to the sink, I accidentally inhaled some of the fumes from the active sodium hydroxide solution while being too close. I felt a tingling sensation in my nose and throat. I have alread...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, exposure to some irritant gases typically results in immediate side effects. If you are not experiencing any significant discomfort at the moment, you can simply monitor your condition. It is not necessary to seek medical attention right away. Th...[Read More] Inadvertently Inhaling Drain Cleaner Fumes: Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Understanding Mild Throat Pain: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
Slight pain in the throat? Hello Doctor, I recently seem to have caught a cold and visited an ENT specialist. I'm still taking medication, but I still feel pain on the right side of my throat, near the tonsils. The ENT doctor only mentioned slight inflammation. I have had to...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, stones are less likely to form in the throat and esophagus. Based on your description, it seems to be an upper respiratory infection combined with pharyngitis. It is indeed recommended to drink plenty of water and rest. However, if you have a persistent fever lasting more ...[Read More] Understanding Mild Throat Pain: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
Understanding Throat Pain: When to Worry and When to Rest
Slight pain in the throat? Hello Doctor, I recently seem to have caught a cold and visited an ENT specialist. I'm still taking medication, but I still feel pain on the right side of my throat, near the tonsils. The ENT doctor only mentioned slight inflammation. I previously ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, stones are less likely to form in the throat and esophagus. Based on your description, it seems to be an upper respiratory infection combined with pharyngitis. It is indeed recommended to drink plenty of water and rest. However, if you have a persistent fever lasting more ...[Read More] Understanding Throat Pain: When to Worry and When to Rest
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Throat Symptoms
Temperature issues Hello Doctor, I started experiencing a sore throat on December 20th of last year and sought treatment. After finishing the first course of medication, my symptoms changed to a scratchy throat and coughing. I continued to return for follow-up visits and received...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, your body temperature is indeed slightly elevated, especially if it frequently exceeds 37.5°C. It is important to pay attention to this; if there are no specific symptoms of infection, it may be necessary to consider atypical infections or other factors such as rheumatolog...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Throat Symptoms
Choking on Snacks: Understanding Throat Discomfort After Eating
Choking on a Doritos chip? While I was eating Doritos at a convenience store and talking, a smaller piece unexpectedly went down the wrong way. I didn't experience severe coughing, but swallowing felt different than usual. Initially, it didn't go down, but I inadvertent...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that it was initially lodged near the throat and later entered the esophagus. I recommend that if you don't experience any significant discomfort afterwards, there is likely no need to worry. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Choking on Snacks: Understanding Throat Discomfort After Eating
Understanding Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Neck pain I recently went to exercise and twisted the right side of my neck. I applied a patch for four days, and it doesn't hurt while it's on, nor in the morning, but by the afternoon, the pain comes and goes. Additionally, I have difficulty swallowing saliva, and swa...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is likely that you are experiencing a muscle strain. However, since you mentioned difficulty swallowing, there is a concern about a possible throat issue or a localized hematoma. I recommend that you first consult an otolaryngologist for an ex...[Read More] Understanding Neck Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Is My Sore Throat a Cold or Something More Serious?
Is it a cold issue? Hello, doctor. About ten days ago, I had a cold and took medication twice. Later, the doctor said that since I no longer had a sore throat, I didn't need to return for a follow-up. However, today I felt something like a droplet shape stuck in my throat ne...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Regarding the previous cold symptoms, such as post-nasal drip, if they persist for a longer duration, it is usually recommended to rest more and stay hydrated, which should help in recovery. 2. As for the dizziness, it could be caused by multiple factors, including ...[Read More] Is My Sore Throat a Cold or Something More Serious?