I am on Day 6 of a 3-week course of low-dose prednisone and have tested positive for Covid-19. I am concerned about the implications of the immunosuppressant aspect of the steroids, especially given my history of cardiac disease (heart stent since 2010 and a monitored heart murmur). Are there any specific precautions or treatments I should consider?

March 25th, 2023

I started noticing that my middle finger on my right hand is incredibly tight, causing pain in my full hand. The pain is constant and feels like something is pulling the finger. I am 59 years old, have no other medical conditions except obstructive sleep apnea and allergy-induced asthma, and I take allergy pills and an inhaler. I also use my hands extensively with iPhone, iPad, and computer for 10-12 hours a day. I have not seen a doctor about this sudden onset of stiffness and pain in my middle finger, but I previously had trigger finger in my right thumb that was treated by cutting the tendon sheath. What could be causing this pain and stiffness, and what can I do to alleviate it?

October 10th, 2024

I am a 43-year-old woman with debilitating anxiety and panic attacks since age 11. My main fears are heart attacks and cancer. I often feel out of breath, chest pressure, hot or cold, and weak legs. In January, I had a cardiac workup including an EKG, echo, and a two-and-a-half-week holter monitor, which showed palpitations considered 'nuisance' by my doctor, and my ejection fraction was 65%. Two weeks ago, I went to the ER because I couldn't breathe, and after tests, I was told it was anxiety. I also suffer from reflux and overeat due to stress, then blame myself. Despite all tests, why do I still feel out of breath and chest pressure? How can I stop overeating? I am currently taking Buspar, Clonopin, Zoloft, and Omeprazole, and have started therapy, but I don't feel improvement.

April 18th, 2024

Hello doctor. I had a protected encounter with a CSW of unknown status 5 months ago. Four months after the exposure, I had the following tests: Blood tests (Ag/Ab HIV - negative, HBAg - negative, Anti HCV - negative, Herpes 1 & 2 - negative, RPR - non reactive, Chlamydia - negative), and Urethral Swab Test (Gonorrhea - negative, Chlamydia - negative). Do I still need to retest for any of these? Am I still at risk or would you consider these results to be conclusive?

January 31st, 2024

I am a 35-year-old male with a bad headache, stuffy nose, runny nose, sore throat, and a tickle. I haven't been tested for Covid, but I am vaccinated and boosted. My booster was 7 months ago. I take metoprolol 150mg ER, Verapamil 240mg, and a baby aspirin daily. Should I take Tylenol or Advil? I know one of them thins your blood, and I don't want to take that one because I already take a baby aspirin. How long does the booster protect you?

December 25th, 2023