Understanding Black Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Consultation regarding black stool issues? Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you, but I would like to ask about a situation I've been experiencing over the past week or two. My stool has turned black and is mostly in a flaky, oatmeal-like consistency (floating on the s...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It may be more related to food, so I recommend testing the black parts of your stool to check for any signs of occult blood. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Black Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Persistent Belly Button Pain: When to Seek Specialized Medical Help
I have had pain around my navel for a year? I have been experiencing pain around my belly button for a year and have seen a gastroenterologist without improvement. I underwent an abdominal CT scan at Min-Sheng Hospital in Taoyuan, which showed no issues. The pain persists and som...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You can schedule an appointment with the gastroenterology or general surgery department to closely examine your CT scan. We need to check for any issues related to the subcutaneous tissue or the surrounding peritoneum. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An...[Read More] Persistent Belly Button Pain: When to Seek Specialized Medical Help
Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Abdominal discomfort? Hello Doctor, last year around mid-year, I experienced indigestion and bloating, and after undergoing an endoscopy, the doctor mentioned I had mild gastritis and a bit of reflux, but didn’t elaborate further. I later took traditional Chinese medicine and fel...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. It may not necessarily be gastroenteritis or peptic ulcers; sometimes it can be due to abnormal peristalsis, which can occur either too fast or too slow, leading to symptoms. Occasionally, the type of diet can contribute, and sometimes emotional stress can be a factor. ...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Remedies
Left lower abdominal pain? I am 26 years old and have recently experienced mild constipation. It's not a complete lack of bowel movements, but sometimes the amount is very small. Since Tuesday, I have felt a dull ache in my lower left abdomen near the hip bone, which is pain...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The location of the pelvic cavity, if there is a habit of constipation, it may be caused by retained stool that has not been fully expelled. Any stool that appears granular or in dry, cracked strips is considered a sign of constipation. Additionally, attention should be pa...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Remedies
Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Abdominal discomfort? Hello Doctor, last year around mid-year, I experienced indigestion and bloating, and after undergoing an endoscopy, the doctor said I had mild gastritis and a bit of reflux, but didn't provide much information. Later, I took traditional Chinese medicine...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you are experiencing discomfort in the area around your navel, you may want to consider issues related to the intestines. Pay attention to whether you feel like you are not fully emptying your bowels, or if you are experiencing early symptoms of enteritis or diarrhea (e...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Loss of Appetite for Two Weeks: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues Explained
I haven't had much of an appetite for the past two weeks? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my situation. I haven't had much appetite for the past two weeks. Although I occasionally feel hungry, I get full after eating just a little. I still feel hungry at night, ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is likely caused by rapid intestinal peristalsis. There are many reasons that can lead to increased intestinal motility, including bacterial or viral infections, irritation from spicy foods, and even emotional factors. If there is no improvement, it is advisable to cons...[Read More] Loss of Appetite for Two Weeks: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues Explained
Persistent Left Abdominal Pain: When Stomach Medications Fail
Persistent pain in the left abdomen for several days, with no relief from antacids? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a dull pain in my abdomen for the past four days. The first three days were manageable, so I didn't pay much attention to it, but on the night of the th...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is not recommended to self-medicate with over-the-counter medications. If reducing the intake of irritating foods and avoiding caffeinated beverages do not lead to improvement, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. D...[Read More] Persistent Left Abdominal Pain: When Stomach Medications Fail
IBS or Colorectal Cancer: Understanding Your Digestive Symptoms
Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Colorectal Cancer? Hello Doctor, I am 22 years old and have a family history of colorectal cancer, so I am particularly concerned. I started experiencing diarrhea and gas in early March and consulted a doctor. The doctor diagnosed me with enteritis. Af...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: After gastroenteritis, there will be a period of intestinal mucosal repair. During this time, bowel habits may be somewhat different. You can continue to observe and try to maintain a light diet, avoiding high-fat and high-protein foods. If there is no improvement, you may...[Read More] IBS or Colorectal Cancer: Understanding Your Digestive Symptoms
Managing Stomach Discomfort: Tips for Better Sleep and Well-Being
I am experiencing discomfort in my stomach, feeling a sense of pressure (not entirely sure if it's bloating), which has affected my daily life and sleep? Hello, I am Xiaoxiong. First of all, I would like to thank you for your thoughtful responses in the past. I really want t...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If symptoms mostly occur at night, gastroesophageal reflux, duodenal ulcers, or gallstones are common conditions to consider. Currently, you are taking gastric medications (vonoprazan + ganaton); it is recommended to stop them one at a time to identify which medication may...[Read More] Managing Stomach Discomfort: Tips for Better Sleep and Well-Being
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and Concerns
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor: This morning for breakfast, I had chocolate cake, and for dinner, I had a spring roll. After lunch and dinner, I felt discomfort in my upper abdomen, and my stools were dark and somewhat loose. Even after using the restroom, my stomach and ab...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If there is gastrointestinal bleeding, the stool may appear to be mixed with red blood in the water. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and Concerns
Should You See a Doctor for Gastrointestinal Concerns?
Should I see a doctor? About a month ago, I had a bowel movement where I had to strain more than usual. The stool was in three segments, and one of them was red, but there was no blood spreading around it. Since then, I haven't experienced similar symptoms, but occasionally ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you experience continuous bleeding, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist. As for the duration of the examination, it depends on the situation on the day of your visit; some can be done immediately, while others may require an appoin...[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for Gastrointestinal Concerns?
Managing Gastritis: Tips for Sleep, Diet, and Emotional Well-being
Gastric antritis, it comes and goes? Hello Doctor, this is Xiao Xiong from yesterday. I apologize for not providing complete information yesterday. My lifestyle and eating habits are normal; I do not drink alcohol or smoke, and I have not taken any painkillers. Regarding my emoti...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Imovane can be taken. 2. When protein enters the stomach, it stimulates the secretion of gastric acid. It is not the high protein itself that harms the stomach, but rather the excess gastric acid. There is no specific amount that constitutes an excess; if you feel uncom...[Read More] Managing Gastritis: Tips for Sleep, Diet, and Emotional Well-being
Should You Get a Colonoscopy for Chronic Abdominal Bloating?
Abdominal bloating Hello doctor, I have been experiencing unexplained abdominal bloating for the past two to three years. The doctor suspects that it may be caused by intestinal adhesions from abdominal surgery I had as a child. I have undergone fecal occult blood tests last year...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: This may require clinical judgment from a physician. The location of your abdominal pain needs to be determined as to whether it is related to the large intestine or the small intestine. If it is a small intestine issue, a colonoscopy may not be necessary. It is advisable ...[Read More] Should You Get a Colonoscopy for Chronic Abdominal Bloating?
Post-Surgery Gas Issues After Diverticulitis: Seeking Solutions for Slow Bowel Movement
Postoperative gas expulsion after diverticulitis surgery? Hello, doctor. My father is 68 years old. Last week, he underwent surgery for diverticulitis. The surgery lasted two hours and went smoothly. However, it has been about a week since the surgery, and he has not been able to...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Your father is likely still hospitalized. It is advisable to consult with the attending physician or physician assistants/nursing staff during rounds. Continuing physical activity is essential, as recovery can sometimes be slower for elderly patients. Additionally, adhesio...[Read More] Post-Surgery Gas Issues After Diverticulitis: Seeking Solutions for Slow Bowel Movement
Medications to Manage Frequent Bathroom Visits While Traveling
Medications for temporary relief of frequent urination? Hello Doctor: I often feel the urge to use the restroom right after eating. Since I usually have access to a bathroom at home or at work, it doesn't cause me much trouble. However, when I go on trips, it becomes a signi...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You may consider taking antidiarrheal medication or medication for irritable bowel syndrome. However, it should be prescribed by a physician, and you should not purchase and use medication arbitrarily. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Medications to Manage Frequent Bathroom Visits While Traveling
Understanding Sudden Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Abdominal stabbing pain? I just experienced a sudden sharp pain in my upper abdomen that lasted about two seconds, followed by lingering mild pain (similar sharp pains in the same area). Last week, I visited a doctor because I had pain in my left abdomen that felt like it was com...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you experience abdominal pain while drinking, particularly in the upper abdomen, it may be due to gastric spasms. If the pain is located elsewhere, intestinal spasms could also be a possibility. As for the underlying cause, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologis...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Persistent Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Persistent bloating in the upper abdomen throughout the day? Hello, I have been experiencing a feeling of fullness and bloating in my upper abdomen all day since February 1st of this year. It feels somewhat better at night when I sleep, but sometimes I still feel uncomfortable, w...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Vonoprazan is a new type of acid-suppressing medication that belongs to a longer-acting category, addressing the limitation of current proton pump inhibitors that have a duration of action of less than 24 hours. If symptoms persist after use, it is evident that gastric aci...[Read More] Persistent Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Lower abdominal pain and discomfort in the abdomen? Hello doctor, this afternoon around 1 or 2 PM, after eating and using the restroom, I started to feel a slight stabbing pain in the lower left area of my abdomen (about three fingers' distance from the navel) at 3 PM. It wa...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Please pay attention to whether your discomfort is caused by irregular bowel movements or if you have consumed any irritating foods. It is advisable to drink plenty of water and monitor for any worsening pain or fever. If it's an emergency, you can go to the emergency...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Lower abdominal pain and discomfort in the abdomen? Hello doctor, this afternoon around 1 or 2 PM, after eating and using the restroom, I started to feel a slight stabbing pain in the lower left area of my abdomen (about three fingers' distance from the navel) at around 3 PM...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Please pay attention to whether your discomfort is caused by irregular bowel movements or if you have consumed any irritating foods. It is advisable to drink plenty of water and monitor for any worsening pain or fever. If it's an emergency, you can go to the emergency...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Stool Consistency and Mucus: Gastrointestinal Concerns
Issues with stool consistency and the presence of mucus in feces? Hello Doctor: Last week, I had a bit of diarrhea, so I took some gastrointestinal medication at home. After that, the diarrhea improved, but my bowel movements have been different these past few days: 1. I have alw...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, after gastroenteritis, the intestines need time to heal. It's normal for bowel habits and stool consistency to change in the short term, so there's no need to worry too much. Please pay attention to a light diet and avoid high-fat and high-calorie foods. Changhua...[Read More] Understanding Stool Consistency and Mucus: Gastrointestinal Concerns