Persistent Acid Reflux: Why PPI Treatment May Not Be Working?
If the effectiveness of PPI medications for acid reflux is poor, what should be done? My symptoms include a burning and uncomfortable sensation in the upper abdomen (possibly in the duodenum or stomach), which is most severe when I am fasting. Interestingly, the symptoms are less...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: In addition to medication, dietary habits are also very important. Beverages such as tea (black/green/milk tea), coffee, smoking, alcohol, fried foods, spicy foods, sweets, and chocolate should be considered. Avoid late-night snacks, do not lie down after eating, refrain f...[Read More] Persistent Acid Reflux: Why PPI Treatment May Not Be Working?
Understanding Digestive Issues: Symptoms and Solutions for Your Gut Health
Bowel-related issues? Hello Doctor, for the past two to three weeks, I have been experiencing diarrhea, and in the last week or two, my father and brother have also started having diarrhea. After visiting the clinic and taking medication, my condition gradually improved. However,...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: This is likely due to the intestinal function not having fully recovered after diarrhea. If the symptoms that prompted the medication (such as diarrhea) have resolved, it is advisable to stop the medication and consult a physician for adjustments if any discomfort arises. ...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Symptoms and Solutions for Your Gut Health
Understanding Reduced Appetite: Possible Causes and Concerns
Decreased appetite? On the morning of June 22, I suddenly experienced a dull pain in my entire abdomen before breakfast. After a while, the pain eased a bit, and I managed to eat breakfast. For the next few days, I felt very bloated in my abdomen, sometimes experiencing pain and ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It was mentioned that after bowel movements, the abdomen feels somewhat more comfortable. It is important to first address the issues of fecal impaction and constipation, as these factors can affect appetite and may even lead to symptoms of abdominal bloating and discomfor...[Read More] Understanding Reduced Appetite: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Anal Health: Common Concerns and Questions Answered
Anal issues Hello Doctor, I have three questions I would like to ask: 1. When I shower, I sometimes check inside my anus for any unusual growths while cleaning myself. I have noticed that when I reach inside, I feel a hard surface, and there are grooves on both sides. Could thi...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal surgeon for a flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. Self-examination is not advised. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Anal Health: Common Concerns and Questions Answered
Can Hepatitis B Virus Survive in Sweat? Understanding Transmission Risks
Hepatitis B transmission issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if the sweat of a person with hepatitis B contains the hepatitis B virus. Can sweat transmit hepatitis B? If I accidentally come into contact with the sweat of a hepatitis B patient, can I contract hepatitis B? I...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Infection can only occur if the wound comes into direct contact with the patient's blood or through sexual contact. Sweat does not transmit the infection. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Can Hepatitis B Virus Survive in Sweat? Understanding Transmission Risks
Can You Get the COVID-19 Vaccine with High ALT Levels?
Is it safe to receive the COVID-19 vaccine if the ALT levels are elevated? Currently, Taiwan is gradually opening up vaccine administration. Based on the literature and data reviewed, I have not found any recommendations or prohibitions regarding vaccination when ALT levels are e...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: A slightly elevated level will not affect vaccination, unless the liver enzymes are more than twice the normal level, or if there is jaundice, or if there are other health conditions. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a hepatobiliary specialist to determine the cau...[Read More] Can You Get the COVID-19 Vaccine with High ALT Levels?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Medications for Anxiety-Induced Dyspepsia
Gastrointestinal medications 1. I would like to ask if a doctor might prescribe Motilium, Mosapride, or Metoclopramide for indigestion caused by anxiety and tension. Would additional tests be required before prescribing these medications? 2. Are there any contraindications for t...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Motilium or mosapride, metoclopramide do not require further testing; they can be prescribed by a physician as needed. 2. There is no interaction with propranolol. 3. Since the medication is short-acting, if you accidentally take it, it's fine, but do not increase ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Medications for Anxiety-Induced Dyspepsia
Understanding Flatulence and Bowel Issues: Causes and Concerns
Flatulence and bowel movement issues? Hello Doctor, I have two questions I would like to ask. 1. Over the past three years, I have noticed that my buttocks feel wet when I pass gas, but when I wipe with tissue, there is no discoloration indicating feces (there was a period when...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. I believe that the higher water content in the stool may contribute to this issue. Additionally, if a person is heavier or wearing tighter pants, it can lead to sweating in the groin or perineal area. To improve this situation, it may be advisable to wear looser pants. ...[Read More] Understanding Flatulence and Bowel Issues: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
Abnormalities in the left lower abdomen? Hello, doctor! I have been experiencing a dull pain and slight bloating in my lower left abdomen for the past year. However, the pain is not constant. After observing my symptoms over the past two weeks, I noticed that they usually occur d...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: After passing formed stool, you experienced a feeling of diarrhea during your second trip to the restroom, resulting in unformed stool. This may indicate softer stools with higher water content or increased fiber intake. Please pay attention to your diet for any irritants ...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Bowel Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Bowel-related issues? Hello doctor, recently my whole family has been experiencing diarrhea, so we visited a nearby clinic for treatment and medication. However, I still feel discomfort around my anus, and my stool is between yellow and dark brown. Today I noticed that the front ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is normal for stool to be thicker at the front and thinner at the back when it is somewhat soft, so there is no need to worry too much. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Digestive Issues: Diarrhea, Blood in Stool, and More
Bowel-related issues? Hello, doctor. For the past week or two, both my father and brother have been experiencing diarrhea. I'm not sure about their conditions, but my stool is almost dark brown in color, and I notice mucus when I wipe. Is this normal? Additionally, I noticed...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If there are similar symptoms among family members, it may indicate an acute infection. Pay attention to any history of contact, whether there is a fever, or if other symptoms are present. If you are unable to differentiate the symptoms, please seek medical attention promp...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Diarrhea, Blood in Stool, and More
Understanding Chronic Diarrhea: When to Seek Medical Attention
Diarrhea issues Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing diarrhea almost every day for over a month now. My gastrointestinal health seems to be poor; I don't have any specific stress, but I do experience pain for one or two days each week. However, the situation has become mor...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You should first avoid irritating foods and reduce the intake of high-water-content fruits (such as watermelon and mango). If there is still no improvement, due to changes in bowel habits, there may be irritable bowel syndrome or other issues. It is recommended to consult ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Diarrhea: When to Seek Medical Attention
Consulting on Herbal Remedies for Hepatitis B Symptoms
I would like to inquire about the use of traditional Chinese medicine for hepatitis B? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with hepatitis B. I previously took Entecavir, and after the viral load was effectively reduced, my primary physician advised me to stop the medication. After stopp...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Being a carrier of hepatitis B does not necessarily mean you cannot take traditional Chinese medicine; however, it is recommended that you consult a qualified Chinese medicine practitioner for a prescription. The medications you mentioned are classified as patent medicines...[Read More] Consulting on Herbal Remedies for Hepatitis B Symptoms
Understanding Changes in Stool Consistency After Gastroenteritis: A Doctor's Insight
Bowel issues Hello Doctor, I had medication for gastroenteritis a month ago. A few weeks ago, I visited a doctor because I experienced pain when applying light pressure to my abdomen. However, I have not seen any improvement over the past month, particularly regarding my bowel mo...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You may want to pay attention to whether you are consuming enough high-fiber foods in your regular diet (such as fruits and vegetables). If you are experiencing abdominal pain, please note the specific location of the pain. If the pain persists, it is advisable to consult ...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool Consistency After Gastroenteritis: A Doctor's Insight
Understanding Your Digestive Health: Concerns About Bowel Changes
I would like to consult a doctor? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my recent bowel issues. I've been searching for a lot of information online, which has made me quite anxious. Whenever I feel tense or worried, I experience some discomfort around my navel. Recently, ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If it is gastrointestinal bleeding, there will not be just a small red spot; you may observe more significant abnormalities. I believe the doctor has diagnosed you with irritable bowel syndrome and should have prescribed relevant medications for you. You can take them with...[Read More] Understanding Your Digestive Health: Concerns About Bowel Changes
Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Worry About Your Stool
I would like to consult a doctor? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you about my recent bowel issues. I've been searching for a lot of information online, which has made me quite anxious. Whenever I feel tense or worried, I experience some discomfort around my navel. Recent...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If it is gastrointestinal bleeding, there would not be just a small red spot; you might see more significant abnormalities. I believe the doctor suspects irritable bowel syndrome and has likely prescribed related medications for you. You can take them with peace of mind, a...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Worry About Your Stool
Understanding Esophageal Injury: Symptoms and Dietary Impact
Esophageal ulceration I consulted a doctor about taking supplements, and I feel like they are stuck in my chest. About an hour later, I start to experience a burning sensation. After eating lunch, when the food slides down, I feel a sharp pain in my chest. I saw a doctor and took...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is recommended to avoid tea (black tea/green tea/milk tea), coffee, spicy foods, and hard foods. It is advised to take medications with a large amount of water to ensure that the medication reaches the stomach; otherwise, it may cause esophageal ulcers. If there is no i...[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Injury: Symptoms and Dietary Impact
Why Bending After Meals Can Trigger Digestive Issues
Applying pressure to the abdomen after eating can easily lead to diarrhea? Hello, doctor. After meals, if I apply pressure to my abdomen, such as bending over to pick something up or squatting down, there is a high chance that I will feel discomfort in my stomach and need to go t...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: After eating, avoid bending forward or performing actions that put pressure on the abdomen, as this can easily lead to gastroesophageal reflux. Individuals with more sensitive gastrointestinal systems may experience an increased gastrocolic reflex when eating too quickly o...[Read More] Why Bending After Meals Can Trigger Digestive Issues
Understanding Bowel Issues: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Discomfort
Bowel movement issues Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing frequent urges to have a bowel movement, but I find it difficult to do so. I often feel like I haven't fully emptied my bowels. Even when I do manage to have a bowel movement, the amount is usually small. Sometimes...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The symptoms of urgency with a feeling of incomplete evacuation (the urge to have a bowel movement but difficulty in doing so) can be due to two conditions: hard stools that are difficult to pass or rapid bowel motility. I suspect you may be experiencing the latter. Gastro...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Discomfort
Understanding Digestive Issues: Causes and Solutions for Soft Stools
Gastrointestinal and bowel issues? Hello Doctor, on the night of June 11th, I had a normal bowel movement while using the restroom, but a few minutes later, I suddenly experienced some abdominal pain and started having loose stools. I initially thought it was just due to eating s...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: In addition to maintaining a light diet, it is important to consider whether emotional stress may be a contributing factor. Furthermore, consuming caffeinated beverages (such as tea or coffee) can stimulate gastrointestinal motility and lead to diarrhea. Additionally, it i...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Causes and Solutions for Soft Stools