Digestive Issues: Managing Symptoms and Treatment Options - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your digestive health. It sounds like you have been experiencing a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, and I appreciate your detailed description of your situation. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Bowel Movements and Digestion: It’s not uncommon to experience fluctuations in bowel habits, especially after a diagnosis of gastrointestinal issues. The fact that you sometimes have normal bowel movements and other times experience diarrhea could be indicative of several factors. Given your history of gastritis and duodenitis, it’s possible that your digestive system is still healing. The medications you are taking, such as the proton pump inhibitor (PPI) for reducing stomach acid, can indeed affect digestion. While PPIs are effective for healing the stomach lining, they can also lead to decreased stomach acidity, which is essential for proper digestion of certain foods, particularly proteins and some vegetables.
The undigested food you are noticing, such as the mushrooms, could suggest that your digestive system is not breaking down food as efficiently as it should. This could be due to a combination of factors, including inflammation in the intestines, the effects of medication, or even dietary choices. It may be beneficial to keep a food diary to track what you eat and how it affects your symptoms. If you suspect that certain foods are causing issues, it might be worth discussing an elimination diet with your healthcare provider.

Additionally, conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) could also be a consideration, especially if you experience alternating patterns of constipation and diarrhea. It would be advisable to consult with your gastroenterologist to evaluate whether further testing is needed to rule out IBS or other conditions.

2. Colonoscopy Findings and Follow-Up: Regarding the polyps that were removed during your colonoscopy, it’s reassuring that they were benign. However, the fact that some areas of the ascending colon were obscured by stool is a valid concern. While the absence of blood in your stool tests is a positive sign, it’s essential to ensure that the entire colon is thoroughly examined. Your doctor will likely recommend a follow-up colonoscopy based on your individual risk factors, family history, and the findings from your previous procedures. Generally, if polyps are found, a follow-up colonoscopy is recommended in 3 to 5 years, but this can vary based on specific circumstances.

3. Medication Dosage: As for your concern about the dosage of your probiotics (佳樂胃), it’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding dosage. Probiotics can be beneficial for gut health, especially after antibiotic use or gastrointestinal disturbances. If you feel that your symptoms are improving, it’s reasonable to discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of adjusting your dosage. They may suggest tapering down to a maintenance dose once your symptoms stabilize.

In summary, it’s crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your symptoms and treatment plan. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current condition. Additionally, consider lifestyle modifications such as a balanced diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, and regular physical activity, which can all contribute positively to digestive health. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical evaluation. Thank you for sharing your concerns, and I wish you the best in your journey toward better digestive health!