Post-Meal Bloating: Could Viral Infection Be the Cause?
Abdominal bloating Is it possible that abnormal bloating after eating meat could be due to a viral infection? I have undergone gastroscopy, colonoscopy, upper gastrointestinal imaging, and CT scans, but the cause of the bloating remains undetermined. Both small and large intestin...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is not necessarily caused by an infection; most cases are functional issues that can be adjusted with diet and exercise. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Post-Meal Bloating: Could Viral Infection Be the Cause?
Morning Abdominal Pain: Understanding Digestive Issues and Remedies
Abdominal pain every morning? Hello doctor, recently around 5 to 6 PM every day, I've been experiencing some abdominal pain, but it's not too severe. Sometimes I can even feel my intestines moving. After a while, when I get up and drink water, it gets better, but I have...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: To determine the location of the pain, the upper abdomen mainly corresponds to the stomach, while the lower abdomen primarily relates to the intestines. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Morning Abdominal Pain: Understanding Digestive Issues and Remedies
Do You Need Regular Endoscopies for GERD Recovery Monitoring?
Does gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) require regular follow-up? Hello Doctor: About two years ago, I underwent an upper endoscopy due to severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and I was diagnosed with grade D reflux. After a long period of taking proton pump inhibi...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is advisable to monitor with an endoscopy, especially since there was a previous diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) at the most severe grade. We can assess the current condition without symptoms and determine the level of improvement on the endoscopy sc...[Read More] Do You Need Regular Endoscopies for GERD Recovery Monitoring?
Understanding Stool Color Changes: When to Worry About Your Health
Stool color Hello Doctor, on Saturday after using the restroom, I noticed that the toilet water was slightly coffee-colored, and it appeared to have a reddish-brown hue. Could this indicate a tumor in the colon? The appearance of the stool itself and the toilet paper were normal ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is recommended to observe the stool color a few more times, as there is a high likelihood of interference from food color. If abnormalities persist, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Typically, a fecal occult blood test will be performed first, unless there is ...[Read More] Understanding Stool Color Changes: When to Worry About Your Health
Understanding Swallowing Difficulties: Causes and Concerns for Patients
Swallowing medications and vitamins? Hello Doctor, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in January, which revealed a mild ulcer. I have been taking medication for it. Currently, in October, I have experienced a sensation of something being stuck when swallowing solid p...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is recommended to drink plenty of water after taking medication to avoid the pill getting stuck in the esophagus. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Swallowing Difficulties: Causes and Concerns for Patients
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Rectal bleeding Hello doctor, I have been experiencing constipation issues for a long time. Since I started losing weight in the first half of the year, it has worsened. I usually drink at least 2000cc of water and eat more vegetables, which has helped me have a bowel movement ev...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The highest likelihood of bleeding occurs with combined constipation, hemorrhoids, or anal fissures. If the frequency of bleeding is too high or the volume of bleeding is excessive, please consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist to evaluate whether a colono...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Understanding Positive Fecal Occult Blood: Causes and Concerns
Possible causes of positive fecal occult blood test? Hello, doctor. Recently, I started experiencing pain in my lower left abdomen, and I underwent a stool test. During the stool sample collection, I noticed that the color at the front was particularly dark, and the result came b...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: A positive test result suggests that you should undergo another colonoscopy. There are many reasons for a positive fecal occult blood test, including gastric ulcers, enteritis, hemorrhoids, polyps, and cancer. Any potential source of bleeding could lead to a positive resul...[Read More] Understanding Positive Fecal Occult Blood: Causes and Concerns
Persistent Bloating and Gas After Meals: Possible Causes and Solutions
I would like to ask about experiencing prolonged abdominal bloating after meals, followed by flatulence, and then feeling better? I would like to ask the doctor, I experience abdominal bloating and pain after every meal, which lasts for a long time. After about 3-4 hours, I feel ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You may consider exercise and probiotics, as well as staying hydrated and consuming fruits and vegetables. If you have any issues, please return for a follow-up with the gastroenterology department. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Persistent Bloating and Gas After Meals: Possible Causes and Solutions
Unexplained Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers in Gastroenterology
Abdominal pain of unknown origin? At the beginning of the month, I went to the emergency room due to pain in my lower right abdomen. The doctor diagnosed me with pelvic inflammatory disease. Following that, I had a follow-up appointment with a gynecologist and took antibiotics fo...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The pain from appendicitis can be more intense and may be accompanied by fever, so the likelihood is lower. Issues related to the colon are also possible, such as fecal impaction, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulosis, etc. Therefore, it is still recommend...[Read More] Unexplained Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers in Gastroenterology
Morning Nausea and Evening Discomfort: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Poor appetite in the morning and discomfort in the stomach at night? Hello, doctor. Ever since I had a bout of gastroenteritis, my digestive system has been quite poor. I have been experiencing frequent burping and nausea, along with a feeling of bloating in my stomach. I visited...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: For gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is essential to prioritize adjustments in dietary and lifestyle habits. If symptoms are more pronounced in the evening, it is advisable to have a light dinner (primarily consisting of bland and easily digestible foods) and to ...[Read More] Morning Nausea and Evening Discomfort: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Split Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention
Fecal splitting Hello, doctor. Today I noticed that my stool has a normal front end but splits into two at the back. Should I see a doctor for this, or can I observe it for a few more days? Thank you, doctor!
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Non-specific symptoms can be monitored, and there is no need to worry too much. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Split Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Mucus in stool Hello doctor, today my stool was very hard during bowel movement, and afterwards there was some transparent, slightly foul-smelling mucus when I wiped. Is this normal? Also, I've been experiencing some dull pain in my upper left abdomen recently. Could this be...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The presence of mucus is normal; however, you may notice mucus due to hard stools. It is recommended to eat more fruits and vegetables and drink enough water. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding the Discrepancy in H. Pylori Testing: A Patient's Journey
Helicobacter pylori Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing recurrent abdominal pain, so I visited a gastroenterologist for an examination. After undergoing an endoscopy, the doctor mentioned that there were some abrasions in my stomach, but no Helicobacter pylori was detected. I ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There are two methods for detecting Helicobacter pylori during an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. One method involves taking a biopsy, which is then examined by a pathologist under a microscope to check for the presence of Helicobacter pylori in the gastric tissue. If th...[Read More] Understanding the Discrepancy in H. Pylori Testing: A Patient's Journey
Loss of Appetite and Diarrhea After AZ Vaccine: What to Do?
Loss of appetite, diarrhea? Hello, Doctor: Since receiving the AZ vaccine on September 10, my appetite has not been very good. I feel full easily when eating, and after meals, I tend to burp and experience discomfort in the upper abdomen around the ribcage. For the past week, my ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It has been almost three weeks since the vaccination, so it should not be a direct influencing factor. If the abdominal pain, diarrhea, and dizziness persist, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist and a neurologist to investigate the cause. Changhua Hospital ca...[Read More] Loss of Appetite and Diarrhea After AZ Vaccine: What to Do?
Understanding Mucus in Stool: Is It Normal and What to Do?
Mucus in stool Sometimes there is white mucus in my stool, and I notice a small amount of yellow mucus when wiping. I often feel like there is something inside my anus that I can't pass, but it improves after passing gas, although the sensation returns shortly after. It has ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. It is normal for stool to have mucus. 2. It is not a concern. 3. It will not have any impact. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool: Is It Normal and What to Do?
Understanding Acute Gastroenteritis: When to Seek Medical Attention
Diagnosed with acute gastroenteritis but later experiencing dizziness? I have a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). After eating raw oysters, I experienced diarrhea five times the next day, along with stomach pain. I had a fever that gradually rose from over 37°C t...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You should continue to monitor for any fever and ensure adequate hydration and electrolyte intake (equal parts water and sports drinks). If symptoms persist, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai ...[Read More] Understanding Acute Gastroenteritis: When to Seek Medical Attention
Blood in Stool: Understanding Hemorrhoids vs. Anal Fissures
Blood in the stool? Hello doctor, today when I had a bowel movement, I noticed that the end of my stool was red, and when I wiped, there was some dark red blood. I had constipation yesterday, so I strained a bit. Do I have hemorrhoids, or is it simply an anal fissure? Last night,...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It could be hemorrhoids or anal fissures; however, it is advised to avoid excessive straining during bowel movements and to maintain soft stools. You can drink more water and eat more fruits and vegetables. If you experience persistent pain or bleeding, please consult a co...[Read More] Blood in Stool: Understanding Hemorrhoids vs. Anal Fissures
Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Treatment Duration and Symptom Relief
Duodenal ulcer After confirming a duodenal ulcer through an endoscopy, the duration of medication typically ranges from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the severity of the ulcer and the specific treatment plan prescribed by your physician. Abdominal pain and bloating should gradually ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The health insurance coverage is for 4 months; however, the duration of treatment depends on the severity of the ulcer and your symptoms, which should be discussed with your clinical physician. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Treatment Duration and Symptom Relief
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Blood in the stool? Recently, after having a bowel movement, I suddenly noticed blood on the toilet paper. At first, I thought it was due to wiping too hard, but this situation has been intermittent, and now I realize something might be wrong. After each bowel movement, I see blo...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It could possibly be an internal hemorrhoid or a skin tag in the anal area. For a clearer understanding of the situation, it's best to consult a clinical physician. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Persistent Diarrhea: Is It IBS or Colon Cancer?
Persistent diarrhea Hello doctor, in the past few weeks, my stools have mostly been loose rather than formed, and I tend to have a bowel movement shortly after eating. I have a spot in my lower left abdomen (near the pubic bone) that sometimes suddenly feels very sore, with a dee...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You may be experiencing symptoms of urgency and a feeling of incomplete evacuation, possibly due to irritant foods or foods with high water content. You can try adjusting your diet on your own, and if there is no improvement, you may consult a gastroenterologist for evalua...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Diarrhea: Is It IBS or Colon Cancer?