Managing Autoimmune Disease: Do I Need to Continue Medication?
Autoimmune diseases Hello, Director Gao. About a year ago, I visited the immunology department due to dry mouth and tongue ulcers. My ANA titer was 80+, and I started taking quinine (2 tablets a day). After three months, the titer decreased to 40+. Due to severe dizziness, I swit...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen, thank you for your inquiry. Currently, the use of medications for Sjögren's syndrome is less common with the use of salivary stimulants, and monitoring disease activity is less frequently done with ANA titers. It is recommended that you consult a rheumatologi...[Read More] Managing Autoimmune Disease: Do I Need to Continue Medication?
Dry Eyes, Dry Mouth, and Dizziness: Understanding Your Symptoms
Dry eyes, dry mouth, and dizziness? Hello, Doctor! Initially, I experienced discomfort in my eyes, which was then accompanied by dizziness, specifically a sensation of feeling heavy-headed and light-footed. Yesterday, I even felt dizzy to the point of having a seizure-like sensat...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Ah Wei, thank you for your question. I apologize for the delayed response due to some internet issues. I think it would be a good idea to consult an otolaryngologist. Dryness syndrome is indeed less commonly associated with dizziness, but certain conditions in neurology or ...[Read More] Dry Eyes, Dry Mouth, and Dizziness: Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Dry Syndrome and Joint Cartilage Issues: A Guide to Immune Disorders
Sjögren's syndrome, articular cartilage Hello, Director Gao! I have several symptoms and I'm unsure if they are related to an autoimmune disease. 1. My dentist informed me that my mouth is very dry. This condition has persisted for at least three years, especially dur...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, I apologize for the late response. I believe your symptoms are indeed related to Sjögren's syndrome, including dry eyes, dry mouth, thyroid dysfunction, cough, and generalized body aches, even lower back pain, which may all be associated with Sjögren's syndrome. ...[Read More] Understanding Dry Syndrome and Joint Cartilage Issues: A Guide to Immune Disorders
Are These Symptoms Early Signs of a Sexually Transmitted Infection?
Is this a sign of a sexually transmitted infection (STI)? The presence of small red spots on the sides and tip of the tongue, as well as tiny white granular spots visible when pressing on the underside of the tongue, could be concerning. However, these symptoms are not definitive...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, to be honest, it is difficult to determine whether it is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or something abnormal just by describing it in words. The tongue can only have a chance of being infected with an STI after engaging in oral sex. The granular appearance on the ...[Read More] Are These Symptoms Early Signs of a Sexually Transmitted Infection?
Understanding Oral Heat Issues: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Oral heat issues? I would like to ask the doctor about my situation. We replaced a broken air conditioner at home, and the new one initially made a buzzing sound. Additionally, I was unsure if the strange smell was from the new unit or from PVC, which caused me to have trouble sl...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is unlikely that the symptoms are caused by acid reflux due to air conditioning. The most probable causes are neurological issues or stress. I recommend seeing a neurologist for further evaluation. If the neurological examination is normal, it...[Read More] Understanding Oral Heat Issues: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Droplets? Common Misconceptions Explained
Questions about HIV/AIDS Is it possible for HIV to be transmitted through respiratory droplets landing on my face and then contaminating food that I eat? Today, while dining out, there was a table nearby with individuals who appeared to be gay, and they were coughing. I was uncer...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, HIV is transmitted through contact with blood and bodily fluids and is almost never spread through droplets or food. Based on the situation you described, the risk of contracting HIV is very low. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Droplets? Common Misconceptions Explained
Concerns About HIV and Hepatitis B After Unsafe Sexual Encounters
Concerns regarding HIV and Hepatitis B? I have been staying up late until 3 AM since the beginning of the year. Between late February and mid-April, I had several instances of unprotected sexual intercourse with the same person (I am unaware of his medical history; I only know th...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, theoretically, the average window period for HIV is 3 months. If you have not engaged in sexual activity since April, then you should have surpassed the window period. Testing in August would likely yield a negative result, and the chances of infection should be very low. ...[Read More] Concerns About HIV and Hepatitis B After Unsafe Sexual Encounters
Does Drinking Diet Soda Increase Your Risk of Diabetes?
Dietary Habits for Diabetes Management Is drinking diet cola really associated with an increased risk of diabetes? I found an article online that states that due to the presence of artificial sweeteners, when you consume diet beverages, your body is essentially deceived. The swee...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
Hello: Thank you for your message. According to some studies, both sugar and artificial sweeteners carry a risk of disease (such as diabetes). Therefore, moderation is key to avoid putting a strain on the body.[Read More] Does Drinking Diet Soda Increase Your Risk of Diabetes?
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Your Concerns Addressed
Questions about HIV/AIDS Hello Doctor, about a month ago, I had unprotected oral sex with someone (I don't know if the other person has an STD). During the process, I licked her nipples, and I have a sore in my mouth. Is there a possibility of contracting HIV? Then she perfo...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello! The primary transmission route for HIV is through "contact with blood or bodily fluids," with the secretions from sexual organs being the most infectious. Therefore, if your hands come into contact with the secretions of your partner's sexual organs and then...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks: Your Concerns Addressed
Understanding Dry Mouth and White Coating: Is It a Sign of HIV?
Dry mouth and tongue coating? Symptoms of HIV can vary, but common early signs include flu-like symptoms, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The symptoms you describe, such as dry mouth, white patches on the tongue, and skin rashes that come and go, could be indicative of various ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if proper safety precautions are taken, the chance of contracting HIV is very low. The symptoms you described, such as the tongue and rash, do not resemble typical manifestations of HIV. An increase in white blood cells is also not a typical presentation. It is recommended...[Read More] Understanding Dry Mouth and White Coating: Is It a Sign of HIV?
Frequent Bacterial Infections: Is It a Sign of Immune System Issues?
Repeated bacterial infections – is it a problem with the immune system? Hello, doctor. In mid-May of this year, I had an acne wound infection that spread inflammation to half of my face within a week. After taking antibiotics for three weeks, I recovered. Shortly after, at the en...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The frequent infections during this period are indeed unusual. It is recommended to consult with an immunologist or a hematologist. The Changhua Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare has an Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Departme...[Read More] Frequent Bacterial Infections: Is It a Sign of Immune System Issues?
Uncertain Oral Symptoms: Is It a Wart or Something Else?
Uncertain if the lesion under the tongue is a wart? Hello doctor, three days ago I had sexual relations with my girlfriend. I am male and performed oral sex on her, but she does not have any warts. The next day, I noticed something unusual under my tongue, specifically on the fre...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the commonly referred term "cauliflower" refers to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is highly contagious and may not always show visible symptoms. Therefore, it is generally recommended to practice safe sex, such as using condoms throughout sexual acti...[Read More] Uncertain Oral Symptoms: Is It a Wart or Something Else?
Assessing HIV Risk: Symptoms and Concerns After Multiple Encounters
Symptoms related to HIV/AIDS? Hello, doctor. Since around September of last year, I have had sexual encounters with over ten sex workers. Among these encounters, there were a few instances of unprotected oral sex, but all vaginal intercourse was protected, and there was no anal i...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: According to the information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://www.cdc.gov.tw/professional/list.aspx?treeid=7B56E6F932B49B90&nowtreeid=8CFCD9975BC5720FA. The transmission routes of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are as follows: 1...[Read More] Assessing HIV Risk: Symptoms and Concerns After Multiple Encounters
Understanding Symptoms After Intimate Encounters: When to Seek Medical Help
This symptom is somewhat severe..? Hello Dr. Liao, on October 10th, I went to a hotel with my girlfriend for the first time. The bathroom was dry, and we took about 40 minutes before using the toilet. That day, I did not have an erection or penetration, but I did use my tongue to...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the question, "I have two areas of broken skin on my foot; could the hotel be the source of infection?" A: If it was oral sex, the wounds on your foot are not related to sexually transmitted infections. Just ensure proper wound care. 2. Con...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms After Intimate Encounters: When to Seek Medical Help
Managing Oral Health Concerns Amid Uncertain Dryness Diagnosis
Immune system In the past year, I have noticed that my body gets tired easily, and during late-night work, I often experience tears and a runny nose to the point that I need to keep tissues handy to wipe my tears. Additionally, my tongue has a whitish coating with cracks, and I f...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The results of a general salivary gland scintigraphy can be obtained quite quickly, so it should be fine to wait a bit before proceeding with periodontal disease treatment. However, only your physician is aware of the severity of your periodont...[Read More] Managing Oral Health Concerns Amid Uncertain Dryness Diagnosis
Post-Thyroid Cancer Surgery: Fertility Plans and Considerations
Post-thyroid cancer surgery considerations for fertility planning? Dear Dr. Hsiao, I underwent thyroid cancer surgery in early October 2015, which involved a total thyroidectomy and partial lymphadenectomy. I received radioactive iodine (I-131) treatment in early November 2015, ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. H: 1. The half-life of iodine-131 is approximately 8 days. You may want to consult your attending physician regarding the dosage at that time to estimate the current residual amount in your body. Logically, from November 2015 to the present, it should theoretically have...[Read More] Post-Thyroid Cancer Surgery: Fertility Plans and Considerations
Concerns About HIV Transmission After Protected Sex: What You Should Know
HIV/AIDS issues Doctor, I had an encounter with a sex worker at the end of February. I used a condom throughout the intercourse, but I did pull out after thrusting a few more times. Is there a risk of fluid exchange in this situation? Recently, I've been experiencing frequen...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the question about having sexual intercourse with a sex worker at the end of February while using a condom throughout the process, and whether there would be any risk of fluid exchange: A. If a condom was used consistently, the risk of infection is ge...[Read More] Concerns About HIV Transmission After Protected Sex: What You Should Know
Thyroid Issues: Understanding Symptoms Like Tinnitus and Muscle Spasms
Endocrinology A family member has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and is currently taking medication for it. They are now experiencing occasional symptoms such as tinnitus, tongue numbness, loss of taste, and neck cramps. Are these symptoms related to the thyroid condition?
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, internet user: I am a rheumatologist and I recommend consulting an endocrinologist. Thank you.[Read More] Thyroid Issues: Understanding Symptoms Like Tinnitus and Muscle Spasms
Is It Enterovirus? Understanding Symptoms and Diagnosis
Is it an enterovirus? Hello, doctor: Last week, I had a continuous fever of about 40 degrees Celsius for several days, and my throat showed the following symptoms: https://imgur.com/hKPJaih. I would like to ask the doctor: 1. Does the photo indicate pharyngitis? 2. Given the cont...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the typical common symptoms of enterovirus: (1) Hand, foot, and mouth disease: fever or mild fever, with scattered, non-painful, non-itchy, non-crusted, non-scarring small, elongated, light red rashes or small vesicular lesions on the palms (Figur...[Read More] Is It Enterovirus? Understanding Symptoms and Diagnosis
Severe Allergic Reactions After Eating Out: Causes and Solutions
Severe allergic reaction and respiratory distress after eating out? Hello, Dr. Gao. I usually experience skin rashes when consuming MSG, but after eating out yesterday, I developed a condition within 15 minutes that included widespread redness, itching, numbness of the tongue, an...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Mr. Chen, thank you for your question. The rapid onset of symptoms is indeed very likely to be caused by an allergy. Severe allergies can affect the respiratory system, leading to symptoms similar to an asthma attack. Allergies that cause systemic symptoms are often trigger...[Read More] Severe Allergic Reactions After Eating Out: Causes and Solutions