Understanding Lupus: Key Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) Hello, doctor. I started experiencing hair loss (alopecia areata) and urticaria in May of this year. I recalled that four years ago, I had a similar condition and underwent testing in the immunology department, where my anti-dsDNA level was 11. ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. ANA 1:1280; anti-dsDNA 13; C3 90. The doctor mentioned that although these indices suggest a high likelihood of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), since it hasn't reached 15, it cannot be definitively diagnosed...[Read More] Understanding Lupus: Key Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Abnormal Complement Tests and Their Link to Immune Disorders
Complement test abnormalities in autoimmune diseases? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing symptoms resembling urticaria, and I underwent an examination at the rheumatology and immunology department. The test results showed abnormalities: CH50 Assay: 40.7, C3: 74.3, C...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Is there a possibility of SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)? --> Based on the information currently provided, the likelihood remains low. 2. Is there a possibility that the immune system is already compromised? -...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Complement Tests and Their Link to Immune Disorders
Understanding Persistent Skin Rashes: Possible Immune System Disorders
Red rashes on the back, posterior legs, arms, and anterior chest, with itching at night that makes it impossible to sleep, and some areas of skin peeling? Since January 2024, the patient has been experiencing symptoms and has visited three clinics where eczema or urticaria was su...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The skin condition described by the netizen seems to be unrelated to the positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer of 1:5120. There may be other autoimmune diseases involved, and it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. It is recommended to first visit a dermatology de...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Skin Rashes: Possible Immune System Disorders
Understanding Urticaria Linked to Thyroid Hormone Medications
Thyroid hormone medication can cause urticaria? Hello, doctor! I had my thyroid removed many years ago, so I have been taking thyroid hormone for years. My current dosage is one Eltroxin 100 mcg tablet per day. In recent years, I have frequently experienced hives, and I am unsure...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
There are other thyroid hormones available, but if thyroid function is normal, urticaria caused by thyroid hormones is rare. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Urticaria Linked to Thyroid Hormone Medications
Managing Hypocomplement Urticarial Vasculitis: Treatment Options and Guidance
Hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis syndrome (HUVS) I have been diagnosed with low complement urticarial vasculitis for about six months. My symptoms include skin rashes, weight loss, lower extremity vascular pain, and gum pain, along with peripheral neuropathy and dizziness...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. How to treat hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis? --> Treatment will be arranged based on the severity of the condition. If you only have skin manifestations, antihistamines may be effective; if there is asso...[Read More] Managing Hypocomplement Urticarial Vasculitis: Treatment Options and Guidance
Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns
Chronic urticaria Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if chronic urticaria can only be managed with medication. I have been taking antihistamines for over two months, and during that time, I felt fine without itching, although sometimes my skin would be a bit red. A few years ago,...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The result of the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is acceptable; although it is marked as positive, the value is still within an acceptable range according to rheumatology standards, so there is no need to worry too much. Regarding chronic urti...[Read More] Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?
Autoimmune diseases Hello, Director Gao. I would like to ask you a question. Previously, I experienced full-body itching and developed hives whenever I returned home. After seeing a doctor, I took antihistamines for over a month, and now I no longer itch, but I still occasionally...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. An ANA titer of 1:80 is considered low, and if there are no symptoms, we usually recommend monitoring. 2. In cases of chronic urticaria, we sometimes test for syphilis, as untreated syphilis infection can lead to prolo...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?
Understanding Your Health Issues: Symptoms and Solutions for Better Wellness
Recently, I have been experiencing a lot of health issues? Hello Doctor, since the beginning of this summer, I have been feeling excessively hot and sweating profusely even with slight exercise. I have also been experiencing recurrent infections in my intimate area (itching and d...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Due to the symptoms involving multiple organ systems, it is recommended to visit a large hospital and consult with a family medicine specialist for a systematic examination. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Your Health Issues: Symptoms and Solutions for Better Wellness
Understanding Immune System Abnormalities: Symptoms and Risks of Sjögren's Syndrome
Abnormalities in the immune system? In the past three years, I have experienced intermittent urticaria on my face. After consulting with a rheumatologist, it was determined that it was caused by an allergy, and I have also been experiencing joint pain (without swelling), low-grad...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe the likelihood of Sjögren's syndrome is high. Although the tear secretion is not at the standard level, it is close to the abnormal threshold. Additionally, with a positive SSA, elevated IgG levels, and joint symptoms, if the sali...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Abnormalities: Symptoms and Risks of Sjögren's Syndrome
Understanding Early Symptoms of Lupus: Normal Tests but Facial Rash?
The tests for lupus erythematosus are normal, but there are erythematous lesions around the face and eyes. Is this also an early stage of the disease? I have been tested at two hospitals, and the results were normal. However, I have red spots on my face and around my eyes, which ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I recommend that you consult a rheumatologist at a large hospital. The presence of erythema around the eyes, along with sensitivity to sunlight and difficulty opening bottle caps, may suggest dermatomyositis. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumat...[Read More] Understanding Early Symptoms of Lupus: Normal Tests but Facial Rash?
Understanding Immune Dysregulation: Chronic Urticaria and Its Challenges
Immune dysfunction Hello, Doctor. I have been suffering from chronic urticaria for about four years, and it has not been cured. A previous doctor mentioned that this is a reaction of immune hyperactivity. However, since my diagnosis nearly a year ago, I have been experiencing rec...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is this situation due to immune hyperactivity or deficiency? Can both coexist? --> It may be better understood as "immune system dysregulation." Autoimmune diseases and allergic conditions are both result...[Read More] Understanding Immune Dysregulation: Chronic Urticaria and Its Challenges
Understanding Parasite Risks and Health Concerns in Contaminated Water
Regarding parasitic issues? Hello Doctor, my name is Yang, and I am a female. I would like to ask about a parasitic issue. Around 2014, about eight years ago, I operated a clothing store in a wet market, which had a rather dirty environment. I used water that was offered to the E...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
It has been too long since 2014, and even if there was a single exposure to bacteria or parasites at that time, it cannot explain the subsequent symptoms you mentioned. I recommend seeing a nephrologist to investigate the cause of the proteinuria. If you are experiencing recurren...[Read More] Understanding Parasite Risks and Health Concerns in Contaminated Water
Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Test Results: Key Insights
Urticaria and Thyroid Testing After catching a cold at the end of February (with symptoms of sore throat and general weakness), I began to develop hives all over my body, particularly around my eyes and neck. I visited a clinic where I was prescribed steroids and received an inje...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is there a connection between urticaria and slightly elevated TSH levels? Do I need to see a rheumatologist for an examination? --> In cases of long-term urticaria, we sometimes check thyroid function. Your TSH is ...[Read More] Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Test Results: Key Insights
Is There a Connection Between Urticaria and Immune System Disorders?
Is urticaria related to immune system disorders? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing itching in my limbs for the past three weeks. The itching has progressively worsened, so I consulted a dermatologist who diagnosed me with urticaria, although I have never had this condition b...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
There is a connection between immune dysregulation and urticaria. For further differential diagnosis, you can consult a dermatologist or an immunology/allergy specialist. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Is There a Connection Between Urticaria and Immune System Disorders?
Could Your Red Rash Be Lupus? Understanding Symptoms and Allergies
Could a painless and non-itchy rash be indicative of lupus erythematosus? On October 1st, upon waking up in the morning, I noticed several small red rashes on my abdomen and arms (originally raised). Within a few hours, they flattened out, but the color remained reddish. There we...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. It sounds like urticaria, but it does not resemble lupus erythematosus. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.[Read More] Could Your Red Rash Be Lupus? Understanding Symptoms and Allergies
Does Cetirizine Affect Heart Rate? Exploring Alternatives Like Levocetirizine
Cetirizine and heart rate issues? Hello, doctor. I have been taking cetirizine for chronic urticaria for over 10 years. I have been using a smartwatch to monitor my heart rate, which often ranges from 95 to 100 bpm, and when lying down and resting, it is about 80 to 90 bpm. I hav...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is it possible that cetirizine is affecting you? --> The likelihood is very low. In my clinical experience, I have not encountered this, and there is very little literature reporting tachycardia as a side effect. ...[Read More] Does Cetirizine Affect Heart Rate? Exploring Alternatives Like Levocetirizine
The Impact of Cetirizine on Kidney and Liver Health: What You Need to Know
Cetirizine and its effects on the kidneys and liver? Hello Doctor, I am a 35-year-old male, weighing 72 kg and 162 cm tall. I have been experiencing redness, swelling, and itching on various parts of my skin, which I believe started after I turned 20. I have consulted many hospit...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is it true that Cetirizine is minimally metabolized by the liver? Could chronic urticaria due to inflammation in the body lead to elevated liver enzymes, and is liver function unrelated to Cetirizine? --> Yes, mos...[Read More] The Impact of Cetirizine on Kidney and Liver Health: What You Need to Know
Can Abnormal Thyroid Antibodies Trigger Urticaria? Exploring the Connection
The possibility of thyroid antibody abnormalities triggering urticaria? Hello, Doctor. I have been suffering from severe urticaria since the end of March, and it has not improved as of now (July). After blood tests, all thyroid-related examination reports were abnormal. TSH < ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. From the perspective of a rheumatologist, some causes of chronic urticaria may be related to thyroid dysfunction. Although the viewpoints of the two specialties may differ, the treatment for urticaria falls under rheumatology. Therefore, I beli...[Read More] Can Abnormal Thyroid Antibodies Trigger Urticaria? Exploring the Connection
Can Chronic Urticaria Cause Abnormal White Blood Cell Distribution?
Does chronic urticaria cause abnormal distribution of white blood cells? I recently started experiencing urticaria, usually with two lesions around the eyes (accompanied by itching), four to six on the face, five to eight on the body, and occasional itching on the palms. This has...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Can chronic urticaria cause abnormal distribution of white blood cells? Should I be concerned? WBC: 6640, Neutrophils: 32.8% (normal: 40%-70%), Lymphocytes: 59.5% (normal: 18%-45%) --> This kind of presentation can...[Read More] Can Chronic Urticaria Cause Abnormal White Blood Cell Distribution?
Understanding Blood Test Results: Key Insights for Your Health
Blood disorders In March, I experienced recurrent episodes of urticaria every 2 to 3 days. On April 2, I visited the rheumatology and immunology department for an examination. The doctor ordered blood tests to check liver and kidney function. Upon reviewing the report, I noticed ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here is my response summarized as follows: 1. Serum creatinine (CRE) is 0.48, white blood cell count shows NEUT 6220, N.seg 77.8, Lym 17.6. The CRE indicates kidney function, while the other values reflect white blood cell counts. Although the...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Key Insights for Your Health