Understanding Blood Transfusions: When and Why They Are Needed
Blood transfusion Dr. Liu: Hello, I have a question I would like to ask you. My husband underwent a total blood exchange several years ago due to issues with his platelets, and recently, during a company-wide health check, it was discovered that his blood is problematic again. He...
Dr. Shou Weijin Reply:
Dear Mrs. Huang, I have received your inquiry and would like to provide you with some answers. The medical term for blood exchange in Chinese is "換血" (huàn xuè), which is primarily used to treat certain severe autoimmune diseases. What are autoimmune diseases? They occ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Transfusions: When and Why They Are Needed
Is Long-Term Use of Flixonase Nasal Spray Safe for Children?
Is Flixonase nasal spray safe for long-term use? The Flixonase nasal spray prescribed for my son is used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and nasal congestion. It helps to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. Possible side effects may include nasal irritation, headach...
Dr. Liao Lingmei Reply:
Dear Viola: I apologize for the delay in responding due to my vacation. The active ingredient in Flixonase nasal spray is fluticasone propionate, which is a potent anti-inflammatory medication primarily approved for the treatment of symptoms associated with allergic and non-aller...[Read More] Is Long-Term Use of Flixonase Nasal Spray Safe for Children?
Gentle Diaper Rash Creams for Babies: Expert Recommendations
Diaper rash Hello Dr. Chen: My baby has developed a rash and bleeding on the surface of the buttocks due to excessive diarrhea. I would like to ask for your advice on which diaper rash creams are less irritating. Previously, I used a cream provided by the hospital that worked wel...
Dr. Chen Yuemei Reply:
Dear Caring Mommy: Diaper rash is generally caused by a fungal infection, and the moist environment can lead to skin breakdown, which allows the fungus to proliferate excessively. Using antifungal ointments can be very effective. Some compounded ointments contain steroids, which ...[Read More] Gentle Diaper Rash Creams for Babies: Expert Recommendations
Understanding Steroid Use in Enterovirus and Related Conditions
Enterovirus and corticosteroids 1. Can enteroviruses be treated with steroids? Why? 2. Can patients with diabetes use steroids for treatment? Why? 3. What is favism? Can it be cured? How is it treated? 4. Why should patients with gastric ulcers avoid eating congee?
Dr. Zheng Shuwen Reply:
1. Can enterovirus be treated with steroids? Why? Answer: Steroid treatment is specifically for patients with coxsackievirus myocarditis. However, administering steroids to infants and young children can lead to severe side effects, potentially resulting in death. 2. Can patient...[Read More] Understanding Steroid Use in Enterovirus and Related Conditions
Understanding Injectable Steroids: Uses and Long-Term Effects
Corticosteroids Dear Sir/Madam, What are the effects of injectable steroids? What are the consequences of long-term use? Thank you! Sincerely, Yijun
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory agents used to treat autoimmune diseases such as lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and myasthenia gravis. Their side effects may include moon facies, osteoporosis, immunosuppression, and buffalo hump. The duration an...[Read More] Understanding Injectable Steroids: Uses and Long-Term Effects
Understanding the Effects and Risks of Long-Term Steroid Use
The effects of steroids? Dear Sir/Madam, What are the consequences of long-term steroid injections? What are the side effects of using steroids for pain relief? After healing from herpes zoster, will there be any pain issues? How should one manage the itching and pain caused by ...
Dr. Zhang Xiaolin Reply:
Hello, regarding the use of injectable steroids, the reasons can vary depending on the specific indications. The duration and dosage of the injections will differ based on the condition being treated. You are likely referring to local steroid injections, which can have side effec...[Read More] Understanding the Effects and Risks of Long-Term Steroid Use
Concerns Over Unknown Medications: Ensuring Safety for Elderly Patients
Unknown substances My grandmother often experiences leg pain, which has been a long-standing issue for many years. She has tried various treatments, including traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine, but it seems difficult to make progress with this age-related degenera...
Dr. Hou Fangmin Reply:
Hello; it is indeed challenging to communicate about medication for the elderly. The medications you mentioned purchasing from the pharmacy may include some pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory drugs. However, there is a concern that they might contain steroids or other unverifie...[Read More] Concerns Over Unknown Medications: Ensuring Safety for Elderly Patients
Understanding the Role of Steroids: Benefits and Risks Explained
What are the effects of steroids and what are their positive and negative impacts on the body? Hello: I visited a dermatology clinic today and received a prescription that included three medications: one anti-inflammatory, Motrin; one antibiotic, Doxycycline; and one topical medi...
Dr. Wu Huiling Reply:
In response to your question, corticosteroids primarily have anti-inflammatory effects, which can alleviate symptoms such as redness, swelling, heat, and pain. They are used to treat certain immune disorders, severe allergic reactions, asthma, adrenal insufficiency, and more. Cor...[Read More] Understanding the Role of Steroids: Benefits and Risks Explained