Understanding Duodenal Cancer: Key Questions and Diagnostic Options
Duodenal cancer issues I would like to ask a few questions regarding my long-term discomfort in the upper right abdomen. I have undergone colonoscopy, gastroscopy, and ultrasound, all of which showed no abnormalities. A physician suggested considering a small bowel endoscopy to e...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Only tumors that can be compared are visible and may be palpable. 2. Both enteroscopy and capsule endoscopy can be used to examine the small intestine. The difference is that capsule endoscopy cannot perform biopsies or treatment; it can only identify lesions. Changhua ...[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Cancer: Key Questions and Diagnostic Options
Understanding Changes in Stool: Is It a Sign of Rectal Cancer?
Colon cancer concerns? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about the issue of stool narrowing caused by rectal cancer. I came across an article that mentioned that alternating between thick and thin stools could indicate the presence of a tumor in the intestines, which made me ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Stool consistency is a nonspecific symptom of colorectal cancer and is not necessarily related to the disease. It is often more associated with the types of food consumed or the amount of fluid intake. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool: Is It a Sign of Rectal Cancer?
Understanding Swelling from Anus to Perineum: Causes and Concerns
Swelling from the anus to the perineal area? Hello, doctor. When I palpate the perineal area from the direction of my buttocks, I notice a slight protrusion (similar to a line). It does not hurt when I press on it, and I cannot feel any foreign object present, but it becomes more...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, this should be the normal structure of the perineum. If there is redness, swelling, heat, or pain, it may indicate inflammation. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Swelling from Anus to Perineum: Causes and Concerns
Can Gallbladder Inflammation Cause Pain in Upper Left and Lower Right Abdomen?
Cholecystitis can cause pain in the upper left abdomen, lower right abdomen, and right abdomen? Dear Dr. Tsai, I recently had an abdominal ultrasound, and the doctor diagnosed me with gallstones and an enlarged gallbladder, suggesting that I should undergo surgery for chronic ch...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, in cases of gallbladder distension, the area of pain may expand, or gallbladder dysfunction can lead to indigestion, causing discomfort in other areas as well. Additionally, the presence of other concurrent issues should also be considered. It is recommended to follow up w...[Read More] Can Gallbladder Inflammation Cause Pain in Upper Left and Lower Right Abdomen?
Changing Bowel Habits: Understanding Digestive Issues in Teens
The timing of bowel movements has changed significantly? Hello, doctor. I am currently in the ninth grade. During the recent nationwide school closure, we switched to online classes at home. I’m not sure if it’s due to changes in my routine (like staying up later and exercising l...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It may not necessarily be an illness. It could be the result of improper dietary habits or psychological stress. What can be changed is to pay attention to your eating habits, avoid irritating foods, engage in moderate exercise, and manage your mood. If there is no improve...[Read More] Changing Bowel Habits: Understanding Digestive Issues in Teens
Persistent Upper Right Abdominal Discomfort: Next Steps for Diagnosis
Discomfort in the right upper abdomen has been evaluated? I have been experiencing a persistent sensation of heat in the upper right abdomen (similar to the feeling of having a pain relief patch applied) for several months. It is not painful, but it is distinctly uncomfortable in...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Generally, the examinations that can diagnose abdominal diseases have been completed. You can consult a gastroenterologist for medication adjustments. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Persistent Upper Right Abdominal Discomfort: Next Steps for Diagnosis
CT vs MRI: Which Imaging is Best for Abdominal Diagnosis?
Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for abdominal diagnosis? I would like to ask, since I have already undergone gastroscopy, ultrasound, and colonoscopy, but the discomfort in my upper abdomen has not improved, if I want to pay out of pocket for advance...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you are examining solid organs, a CT scan of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys/adrenal glands, ovaries, and uterus will suffice. However, if you need to reconstruct images of the pancreatic duct or bile duct, an MRI is required. Of course, any lesions vi...[Read More] CT vs MRI: Which Imaging is Best for Abdominal Diagnosis?
Understanding Pencil-Shaped Stool: Should You Worry About Rectal Cancer?
Bowel issues Hello doctor, I saw online that finding stool shaped like a pencil could indicate colorectal cancer, and I'm a bit worried. Recently, I've noticed that my stools have been thick at the beginning and tapering to a point about 1 cm at the end, resembling a pe...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Changes in stool patterns are generally considered one of the non-specific symptoms of colorectal cancer. Non-specific, by definition, means that it is not necessarily indicative of cancer. If a recent stool occult blood test came back normal, there is no need to worry exc...[Read More] Understanding Pencil-Shaped Stool: Should You Worry About Rectal Cancer?
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Insights into Gastrointestinal Issues
Abdominal issues? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing pain in the upper right quadrant of my abdomen for the past six months. I underwent an ultrasound which revealed fatty liver and gallbladder polyps, and an endoscopy indicated mild gastritis. A few weeks later, I suddenly d...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, your comprehensive examinations are sufficient to diagnose diseases of all abdominal organs. However, functional issues such as abnormal peristalsis, irritable bowel syndrome; metabolic disorders (such as thyroid dysfunction, blood sugar abnormalities; or rarer conditions ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Insights into Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Stool Shape: Insights from Gastroenterology
Bowel Issues - Continued Hello Doctor, I am the one who asked a question the day before yesterday. Here is the image of the stool shape I mentioned: https://upload.cc/i1/2021/12/31/IevPEN.jpeg. I tend to worry about my health, so I apologize for bothering you multiple times. Than...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, there shouldn't be any abnormalities! The softer consistency can make it easier to mold as it passes through the anal canal, so there's no need to worry. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Stool Shape: Insights from Gastroenterology
Persistent Discomfort in the Upper Right Abdomen: Causes and Next Steps
Persistent discomfort in the right upper abdomen? For the past two months, I have been experiencing a tight, burning sensation in the upper right part of my abdomen (approximately from just above the navel to just below the lower rib margin). At the end of last month, I had an ab...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, since you have already undergone abdominal ultrasound, gastroscopy, and colonoscopy, most diseases in the right upper abdomen can be diagnosed. You may want to review your dietary habits to see if they are contributing to your gastric discomfort, such as the consumption of...[Read More] Persistent Discomfort in the Upper Right Abdomen: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Stool Shape: Signs of Potential Colon Issues
Stool shape Hello Doctor: I would like to ask, if during bowel movements my stool is formed but accompanied by irregular small pieces (with a feeling of incomplete evacuation) and this has persisted for 2 to 3 years, could it be due to the presence of polyps in the colon? Additio...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the shape of your stool can be influenced by your diet and is not necessarily caused by polyps. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist, who can determine whether a colonoscopy is necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Stool Shape: Signs of Potential Colon Issues
Abdominal Pain and Dark Red Stool: What Could It Mean?
Abdominal pain with diarrhea and dark red stools? Hello, doctor! I am 21 years old, and today I am experiencing abdominal pain and diarrhea. My stool is softer and has a dark red color, but when I wipe with toilet paper, there is no dark red color, only yellow-brown. Doctor, do y...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It may just appear darker, or you can collect it next time you encounter it and test for occult blood in the stool. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Abdominal Pain and Dark Red Stool: What Could It Mean?
Can People with Stomach Ulcers Eat Oatmeal?
Can people with gastric ulcers eat oatmeal? Can people with gastric ulcers eat oatmeal?
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Can People with Stomach Ulcers Eat Oatmeal?
Understanding Side Effects of PPI and Ai Wei Ni in GERD Treatment
The side effects of PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors) such as "Gastro-Comfort" (得喜胃通) and "Aiwai Reverse" (艾胃逆) may include: 1. Headache 2. Nausea 3. Diarrhea 4? Hello doctor, I was recently diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) at the hospital. T...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Some gastric medications can alter individual bowel habits. If the changes are severe, you may consult your physician for a medication adjustment. If they are mild, you can increase your fluid intake and consume more fruits and vegetables. Changhua Hospital cares about you...[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of PPI and Ai Wei Ni in GERD Treatment
Can You Undergo a Sedated Gastrointestinal Endoscopy While on Birth Control?
If someone is taking contraceptive pills, can they undergo a sedated gastrointestinal endoscopy? Hello, doctor. I am currently taking the contraceptive pill, Yejih. I would like to know if it is safe to undergo a painless gastroscopy. If a polyp needs to be removed, will taking t...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Birth control pills will not affect painless gastroscopy and polypectomy. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Can You Undergo a Sedated Gastrointestinal Endoscopy While on Birth Control?
Understanding Bloating and Hiccups: When to Seek Medical Advice
Gastrointestinal issues Hello, doctor. I've been experiencing hiccups for the past 3 to 4 weeks, and they feel different from the hiccups I used to have. It feels like air is escaping, and the sound comes from my throat. I also hiccup when I stretch, and sometimes my entire ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If your hiccups occur only once each time, this symptom is called "singultus" or "eructation," which may be due to gastric distension or gastric spasms. If the hiccups are continuous and persistent, there could be multiple causes, including phrenic nerv...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Hiccups: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Constipation: How to Ensure Your Bowels Are Healthy
Bowel issues Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my recent X-ray results which showed that I have a lot of retained stool. The doctor prescribed me a laxative (散肚秘), and I took it for two days, but I only had a bowel movement two or three times, and then I stopped taking it. ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The colon is approximately 150 to 200 centimeters long, so it is unlikely to be free of fecal matter. The issue lies in whether there is constipation or if it has caused symptoms such as bloating or abdominal pain. Abnormal bowel habits are what raise concerns. Furthermore...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: How to Ensure Your Bowels Are Healthy
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and Concerns
Gastrointestinal issues Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my condition. Since last night after dinner, I've been feeling unwell, and this morning it got worse with sudden abdominal pain and increasingly loose stools, which have also decreased in volume. Additionally, t...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The likelihood of gastroenteritis is higher, so please increase your fluid intake. Pay attention to any fever or pain. If symptoms worsen, please consult a gastroenterologist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Recurrent Stomach Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Recurrent gastric bloating and pain? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing a lot of exams lately, which has resulted in less sleep and increased coffee consumption. Four days ago, I suddenly started having bloating and abdominal pain that was so severe I couldn't concentra...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Black stools are typically a result of bleeding. Generally, the likelihood of ulcers or inflammation is much higher, while the probability of tumors is extremely low. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Stomach Pain: Causes and Next Steps