Understanding Short-Term Joint and Back Pain: When to Consider Medication
Pain in the limbs and back? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing upper back pain, pain in the finger joints and fingertips, pain in the toes, knee pain, and occasional elbow pain for the past 1 to 2 months. This past month, I went to a large hospital for examinations. The docto...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Some young individuals do experience intermittent joint effusion, with symptoms that come and go, often lasting no more than three days. In such cases, we generally first check for any serious rheumatic diseases behind these symptoms, as your p...[Read More] Understanding Short-Term Joint and Back Pain: When to Consider Medication
Managing Glucose Intolerance: Dietary Adjustments and Lifestyle Changes
Glucose Tolerance Abnormality and Dietary Adjustments Hello, doctor. I am the person who asked about the elevated fasting blood glucose level (#189944). Recently, my OGTT results came back with fasting: 911, 1-hour: 1822, 2-hour: 1263, and 3-hour: 61, indicating impaired glucose ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
1. Clinical diagnostic criteria for diabetes: Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) ≥ 6.5%, fasting plasma glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL, 2-hour plasma glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL during an oral glucose tolerance test, or symptoms of hyperglycemia (including polyuria, polydipsia, and weight loss) with a random p...[Read More] Managing Glucose Intolerance: Dietary Adjustments and Lifestyle Changes
Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Concerns
Fasting blood glucose levels are elevated? On October 14, 2021, I went to the emergency room due to discomfort from vaccine side effects, around 8 PM after dinner, feeling very anxious (due to chest pain). The emergency department recorded a blood glucose level of 171. A few days...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Fasting blood glucose greater than 100 mg/dL or hemoglobin A1c greater than 5.6% indicates prediabetes. Low-dose mirtazapine is not commonly associated with hyperglycemia. Maintaining proper dietary control and lifestyle adjustments is key. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire whether my symptoms could be diagnosed as arthritis. At the end of October: I felt an unusual sensation when bending my hands. At the beginning of November: I experienced an unusual sensation in my big toe, and my knees h...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe further monitoring is appropriate. Although the RF value is abnormal, it is not significantly elevated, and with normal CCP levels, I think tracking is sufficient. If ANA, CRP, and ESR are also normal, the likelihood of severe rheumat...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Sudden Side Foot Pain: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Sudden pain on the side of the foot? Hello Doctor, after taking a shower, I suddenly felt pain on the side of my right foot while walking. After resting for a bit, it got better, but then it hurt again after a while. However, sitting down and resting helped again. I haven't ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description and the provided images, it does not appear to be a fracture or gout. It seems more like inflammation caused by friction or injury, which could result from excessive walking, intense exercise, or wearing new shoes. Typically, resting for a while w...[Read More] Sudden Side Foot Pain: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Arthritis and Gout: Symptoms and Concerns for Young Adults
Arthritis or gout issues? Hello, Doctor. I apologize in advance for the lengthy message. For the past three weeks, I have been experiencing pain in the tips of my fingers and toes (specifically, the soft tissue at the very ends). This week, the frequency of the episodes has incre...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis typically involve pain, swelling, and warmth in the joints, particularly in the small joints. However, redness is less common. If you are experiencing pain without swelling or red...[Read More] Understanding Arthritis and Gout: Symptoms and Concerns for Young Adults
Understanding Limb Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Pain and discomfort in the limbs? Hello, Doctor. For the past few weeks, I have been experiencing alternating pain in my hands and feet (most commonly in my fingers and toes). I'm wondering if this could be caused by excessive humidity or a lack of exercise (I recently start...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Your symptoms have been present for a relatively short time. If you do not have any other chronic illnesses, it is recommended to start with anti-inflammatory pain relievers and increase your water intake to manage your symptoms. If there is no ...[Read More] Understanding Limb Pain: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Assessing HIV Infection Risk from Minor Injuries and Oral Symptoms
Risk of HIV Infection On October 1st, I noticed a small amount of unknown blood on my right big toe. I'm not sure if it was from someone who dripped it on the ground or if I stepped on it, as I didn't feel anything and didn't notice anyone nearby bleeding. However,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description of the wound on your foot, it is unlikely that it has led to an HIV infection. The symptoms you described are not indicative of HIV, so there is no need for you to undergo specific testing at this time. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Assessing HIV Infection Risk from Minor Injuries and Oral Symptoms
Is Your Back Pain After Surgery a Side Effect of Spinal Anesthesia?
Which department should I see? Hello doctor, I underwent a bunion surgery on my fifth toe in January and July, both under spinal anesthesia. Several months have passed, and I often feel lower back soreness and pain. Could this be a side effect of the spinal anesthesia? Thank you,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the likelihood of the issue being caused by anesthesia is low. It is more likely related to spinal or muscular problems. I recommend that you schedule an appointment with an orthopedic specialist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Is Your Back Pain After Surgery a Side Effect of Spinal Anesthesia?
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
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?
Understanding Unexplained Body Heat: When to Seek Medical Help
There is always a sense of heat within the body? Hello, doctor. For the past ten days, I have been feeling a constant sensation of heat in my body, although my temperature readings are normal. I often feel a wave of heat throughout the day, and my toes and the soles of my feet fe...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to first consult a Western medicine physician to check for any endocrine issues, such as thyroid or adrenal gland problems. You can make an appointment with the Family Medicine or Metabolism department. If these tests are normal, then you can consider con...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Body Heat: When to Seek Medical Help
Managing Diabetic Gangrene: Options Beyond Natural Detachment
Management of diabetic foot and hand gangrene? Hello Doctor: My family member is 58 years old and previously experienced septic shock, which resulted in the necrosis of the toes on one hand and one foot. The doctor mentioned that the circulation in the feet is very poor. At that ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
For the management of limb gangrene in diabetic patients, it is necessary to consult with a plastic surgeon or orthopedic specialist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Managing Diabetic Gangrene: Options Beyond Natural Detachment
Understanding Gout Symptoms: Normal Uric Acid Levels and Foot Discomfort
Regarding normal uric acid levels but slight discomfort in the big toe? Hello Director Gao, I apologize for disturbing you, but I would like to consult you regarding a patient. About ten years ago, the patient experienced sudden severe pain in the foot and was diagnosed with gou...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Can gout occur even with normal uric acid levels? For example, if someone suddenly consumes a large amount of seafood or red meat, or if they haven't been drinking enough water recently, could this trigger a mild...[Read More] Understanding Gout Symptoms: Normal Uric Acid Levels and Foot Discomfort
Managing Diabetes: Weight Loss, Diet, and Cholesterol Control
Diabetes, Weight, and Diet Last October, I was diagnosed with diabetes and started medication—Metformin. At the end of November, I began intermittent fasting (16:8) to lose weight, eating only lunch and dinner. During my follow-up appointment in February, my weight decreased from...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Avoid consuming items that contain refined sugars, such as candies, sodas, cakes, etc. Instead, try to choose less sweet fruits, such as firm guavas and large tomatoes. You should also discuss with your physician how many calories you can reasonably consume each day based ...[Read More] Managing Diabetes: Weight Loss, Diet, and Cholesterol Control
Essential Considerations for Diabetic Patients Undergoing Surgery
Considerations for Surgery in Diabetic Patients Hello, doctor. I was diagnosed with diabetes three years ago, and my initial hemoglobin A1c was 9.1. I am still managing my blood sugar with oral medications, and my current hemoglobin A1c is 7.8. I will be hospitalized for surgery ...
Dr. He Yonghe Reply:
Hello, Ms. Wu. Yes, a blood sugar level of 100-150 is a basic requirement for surgery, and it should remain the same postoperatively.[Read More] Essential Considerations for Diabetic Patients Undergoing Surgery
Understanding a Red Spot on Your Foot: Causes and Concerns
A red spot on the dorsum of the foot? Hello, I would like to ask the doctor about something. I received a vaccine at the beginning of September, and I am scheduled to get another one next week. However, after taking a shower just now, I suddenly noticed a red spot on the top of m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the image, it appears to be caused by microvascular hemorrhage in the skin, likely due to unintentional friction or impact. It is advisable to simply observe it, as it should gradually resolve in a few days. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding a Red Spot on Your Foot: Causes and Concerns
Joint Pain and Stiffness: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
The finger joints are swollen and painful, but the doctor said it is not rheumatoid arthritis? Hello Doctor, since late last year, I have noticed stiffness in my finger joints upon waking up, which was mild at first. Recently, the frequency has increased, and almost every day my ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. An ANA value of 1:80 falls into a gray area. However, if you continue to experience joint pain and stiffness, along with occasional nighttime pain that disrupts your sleep, I recommend that you visit a rheumatology clinic to discuss your concern...[Read More] Joint Pain and Stiffness: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Understanding Black Spots on Toenails: Causes and Concerns
Nail problems Hello Dr. Hong, I have noticed a small black spot on the side of my left big toe, close to the nail, but not on the nail bed. It is about 0.1 millimeters in size and is neither painful nor itchy. Could this be related to a skin condition? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems there may be a foreign body lodged in the nail fold or localized bleeding. If it gradually resolves on its own, there is no need for concern. However, if it continues to expand or if you experience pain, you should seek medical attention...[Read More] Understanding Black Spots on Toenails: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Symptoms After Toenail Injury: Fever, Dizziness, and More
After injuring the toenail, a series of symptoms began, primarily persistent low-grade fever and dizziness? Hello, Doctor. At the beginning of last month, while on a business trip and staying at a hotel, I accidentally injured my right big toe by pinching it in the door. There wa...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! Generally, a nail injury is unlikely to cause a systemic infection (unless the local wound condition is very poor). Your initial symptoms resemble those of a systemic inflammatory response or infection, but typical infections do not usually last for a month. It would be ad...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms After Toenail Injury: Fever, Dizziness, and More