Question 1

I'm really worried about my syphilis tests. About two months ago, my TPHA level was 1320 and RPR was 12. My doctor put me on doxycycline, 100 mg twice a day for 21 days. After finishing the treatment, I tested again and my TPHA had increased to 1640, with the RPR still at 12. They then gave me a penicillin injection, 2.4 mu, and told me to get tested after another two weeks. This time, my results were TPHA 1640 again, but RPR went up to 14. I even did a test at a different lab and the TPHA was 12560 there. I'm scared and not sure what's going on. Can you help me understand these results?

Accepted Answer

Your test results indicate a persistent syphilis infection, and the treatment outcomes are concerning; the increasing RPR titers (1:2 to 1:4) and varying TPHA results (1:320 to 1:640 to 1:2560) suggest that the infection may not be responding to the treatments administered; consult a specialist,

Question 2

I'm kind of worried about this rat bite I got on my toe a month back. It was a small wound, but it did bleed a bit. I saw a doctor, got a TT injection, and took antibiotics to avoid infection. They also suggested I get the Anti Rabies vaccine, but I haven't gotten it yet. Do you think it's necessary for me to take the Anti Rabies Vaccine at this point?

Accepted Answer

yes you need to take rabies vaccination

Question 3

I'm really worried about something that happened during a recent blood draw. At the private lab, I noticed the seal on the vacutainer needle was already torn before my blood was drawn, and now, a month later, I'm experiencing some unsettling symptoms like severe fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and red spots on my legs. My sore throat has continued, and there's a swollen lymph node near my elbow even after three months. I did an HIV test, the 4th-generation kind, and it came back negative after 8 weeks and 7 days. But I'm still concerned, especially since there was about a 7-minute gap between me and the previous patient. Can HIV be a concern here? Is it possible for vacutainer needles to be reused? I just want to understand if there's something more I should be looking out for.

Accepted Answer

Throat Pain After Vomiting

_Causes_

1. Stomach acid irritation
2. Inflammation of the throat lining

_Remedy_

1. _Stay hydrated_: Drink plenty of water to help soothe the throat.
2. _Gargle with salt water_: Mix 14 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water to reduce inflammation.
3. _Throat lozenges_: Suck on lozenges or cough drops to help soothe the throat.
4. _Avoid irritants_: Stay away from spicy or acidic foods and drinks.
5. _Rest your voice_: Avoid talking or shouting to give your throat time to heal.

_When to Seek Medical Attention_

1. _Severe pain_: If pain persists or worsens.
2. _Difficulty swallowing_: If you experience trouble swallowing food or water.
3. _Fever_: If you have a fever over 101.5F (38.6C).
4. _Blood in vomit or saliva_: If you notice blood in your vomit or saliva.

So, I went to get my beard shaved at a barber shop, and I noticed that the barber didn't change the blade. I ended up with a small cut too. Should I be worried about the risk of HIV transmission in this situation?

Visit Physician for evaluation and appropriate management

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