Is Eating Small Meals Better for Your Stomach? Debunking Common Myths
Is eating small meals frequently really good for the stomach? Hello, doctor. My mother has been insisting for the past month or two that we change our eating habits to smaller, more frequent meals. The reason is that she has diabetes and also suffers from gastrointestinal issues ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Eating small, frequent meals is primarily a recommendation for those with indigestion or malnutrition who cannot eat large amounts. Under normal circumstances, there is no need to eat small, frequent meals. It is not necessarily good or bad to eat two meals a day; what mat...[Read More] Is Eating Small Meals Better for Your Stomach? Debunking Common Myths
Managing Bowel Issues After Ovarian Cancer Surgery: Tips and Solutions
Bowel movement issues Hello doctor, my mother has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and has developed intestinal adhesions after surgery, leading to abdominal bloating and difficulty in bowel movements. This has happened three to four times, and she often visits the emergency ro...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: To avoid constipation and fecal impaction, it's important to incorporate fruits and vegetables, adequate hydration, and probiotics into your diet. Exercise and massage can also be beneficial. If there is severe intestinal adhesion leading to bowel obstruction, surgica...[Read More] Managing Bowel Issues After Ovarian Cancer Surgery: Tips and Solutions
Post-Surgery Bowel Issues: Managing Constipation and Diarrhea in Seniors
Postoperative bowel issues? 1. After administering Irinotecan, it is common to experience constipation due to the preventive medications taken beforehand. To manage this, consider increasing fluid intake, incorporating high-fiber foods, and using over-the-counter laxatives or sto...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Please ask the physician to prescribe a stool softener in advance. 2. It is not recommended to use a water jet directly; instead, it is advised to use a sitz bath or an enema bulb. 3. There may be side effects from the medication; however, be aware of signs of a Clostri...[Read More] Post-Surgery Bowel Issues: Managing Constipation and Diarrhea in Seniors
What to Do If You Accidentally Swallow Dental Cotton During Treatment?
Dental cotton Doctor's interruption: What should I do if I accidentally swallowed the cotton used in root canal treatment? I'm not sure if it fell out or if I swallowed it. If I swallowed it, will it pass through my system?
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There's no need to worry, it should have already been expelled. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] What to Do If You Accidentally Swallow Dental Cotton During Treatment?
Understanding Your Stomach Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention
Gastric issues? Recently, my stomach seems to be slightly off, and I'm not sure if it's just psychological. If I wait until I experience significant weight loss, anemia, or unbearable pain before seeing a doctor for an endoscopy, will it be too late, such as in the case...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Cancer markers cannot be used to diagnose the presence or absence of cancer. 2. If the clinical physician assesses that it is necessary, an endoscopy is recommended. 3. Ultrasound can only visualize the pancreas under optimal bowel gas conditions, so it is not the best ...[Read More] Understanding Your Stomach Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Hello, doctor. Thank you for taking the time to respond. I have had issues with bowel function since childhood, often experiencing constipation with dark-colored stools. However, it has been inconsistent, so I didn't pay much attention to it. ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It seems that there may be a phenomenon of constipation. It is important to ensure adequate hydration and to include fruits and vegetables in your diet. There is no immediate need for any tests; however, if the situation does not improve, you may consider consulting a gast...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Persistent Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Seeking Solutions for Two Months
Gastrointestinal discomfort for two months? Hello Doctor, I am a 19-year-old student who has been struggling with gastrointestinal issues for over two months, and it's really wearing me down. My symptoms include a feeling of bloating and chest tightness every morning (even w...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you have consumed tea, coffee, or spicy, fried, high-fat, and high-protein foods, it is advisable to avoid them for now. Make sure to stay hydrated with fruits and vegetables. If there is no improvement, please consult a gastroenterologist at Changhua Hospital to addres...[Read More] Persistent Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Seeking Solutions for Two Months
Understanding Your Endoscopy Results: Next Steps for Peace of Mind
After gastroscopy and colonoscopy? Hello, I would like to ask the doctor, I am currently abroad. Recently, I visited a specialist due to gastroesophageal reflux disease and underwent both gastroscopy and colonoscopy, which showed no issues. My attending physician mentioned that e...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Could you please key in the text report for us to review? Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Your Endoscopy Results: Next Steps for Peace of Mind
Understanding Stomach Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention
Stomach discomfort? I have been feeling a bit uncomfortable in my upper abdomen for the past few days, and I'm not sure if it's related to the left-sided hernia surgery I had at the end of February. Recently, I haven't felt unwell, but I do experience some abdomina...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: For some individuals, bowel function may temporarily change after surgery, which can be adjusted through lifestyle and dietary habits. If there is no significant weight gain or loss, there is generally no need for excessive concern. However, if the situation does not impro...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention
Could Your Bowel Changes Indicate Colorectal Cancer Risk?
Is the issue of bowel movements and flatulence possibly related to colorectal cancer? Hello Doctor, I am a junior staff member working in a real estate company. I usually have bowel movements about 1-3 times a day, but a month ago, I started experiencing irregular bowel habits. I...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The symptoms of colorectal cancer are mostly non-specific, so there is no need to overly worry about certain symptoms. It is essential to develop proper lifestyle and dietary habits. If there is no improvement, you can consult a gastroenterologist, who will determine wheth...[Read More] Could Your Bowel Changes Indicate Colorectal Cancer Risk?
Understanding Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Solutions
Bowel issues I would like to ask the doctor if everyone actually has internal hemorrhoids? If there is bleeding during bowel movements (with blood separate from the stool) and occasional pain during bowel movements, is there a way to stop this from happening? If exercise is benef...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Not everyone has internal hemorrhoids. Eating more fruits and vegetables, staying hydrated, having daily bowel movements, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing can help prevent the formation of hemorrhoids. If necessary, you can consult a colorectal specialist or a ga...[Read More] Understanding Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Solutions
Managing Severe Constipation and Diarrhea: A Gastrointestinal Guide
Bowel-related issues? Hello Dr. Tsai, my father (71 years old) has been experiencing increasingly severe constipation. A week ago, he was completely unable to have a bowel movement, so he asked family members to buy an enema, but after using it, he only experienced slight diarrhe...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Please pay attention to whether your output and intake are balanced. If you are eating very little, be cautious about the possibility of dehydration. It is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist, as experiencing diarrhea after eating may require investigation to determi...[Read More] Managing Severe Constipation and Diarrhea: A Gastrointestinal Guide
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Gastrointestinal issues Recently, I have been experiencing frequent stomach rumbling at night, with the location of the sounds being inconsistent, which affects my sleep. A year ago, I underwent a fecal occult blood test at the hospital, and the results were negative. The doctor ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I would like you to pay attention to the issue of sleep, as general abdominal sounds typically do not affect sleep. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition characterized by periodic changes, which may involve alternating constipation and diarrhea. If you have any que...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Understanding My Stomach Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Regarding my stomach issues? Hello Doctor, I sometimes experience stomach pain. Previously, I had a period of almost a week where I would wake up every morning with severe stomach pain. Recently, the pain has been intermittent, occurring not only in the morning but also sometimes...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you experience persistent pain, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist to determine the cause. Regarding diet: avoid tea, coffee, spicy foods, fried foods, and high-fat, high-protein foods. Do not overeat or delay meals. Changhua Hospital cares about your healt...[Read More] Understanding My Stomach Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Mucus in Stool, Left Abdominal Pain, and Constipation
Mucus in stool, left lower abdominal pain, constipation? Hello Doctor, I am 15 years old and currently studying in the United States. Due to the pandemic, I am unable to return to my home country and I am hesitant to visit a local hospital. For the past two months, I have been ex...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: In terms of incidence by age, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is quite low. It is important to pay attention to the intake of fruits, vegetables, and fluids, and to engage in regular physical activity to promote intestinal motility. As for conditions near th...[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool, Left Abdominal Pain, and Constipation
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Blood in stool? During the past few bowel movements, I sometimes notice that the first stool is normal in color and does not have blood, but after the second stool, I find blood on one side of the stool's surface, or there is blood dripping from the anus. Sometimes, there is...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Most cases are due to bleeding from moles or anal fissures, while a small number may involve tumors in the rectal area. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Unexplained Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Help
Unknown pain Hello, doctor. I have some mild pain in my lower abdomen, specifically on the left side below the navel and in the upper thigh area. Occasionally, I also experience slight discomfort in the left side of my chest. These pains are noticeable but do not last long, and I...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Please visit a gastroenterologist to determine if there is any gastrointestinal bleeding. It is recommended to avoid dark-colored foods in the near future to prevent interference with the color of your stool. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Help
Understanding Stool Shape Changes and Hemorrhoid Impact on Bowel Health
Bowel issues, hemorrhoid problems? In the past year, my bowel movements have been characterized by stool that is shaped like small balls, sometimes accompanied by a slippery sensation. I also have hemorrhoids (mixed internal and external hemorrhoids), which tend to protrude near ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Softer stools can change shape due to severe hemorrhoids. You may need to consult a colorectal specialist to evaluate whether ligation or surgery is necessary to resolve your issue. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Stool Shape Changes and Hemorrhoid Impact on Bowel Health
Understanding Black Spots on Lips: Causes and Management Options
Lip hyperpigmentation Hello, Doctor. Two years ago, I noticed several dark spots on my lower lip. I first visited a general dermatology clinic, where the physician recommended that I go to Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital's dermatology department for a biopsy. The derm...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you have already ruled out Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, I wonder if you have consulted with a plastic surgeon. A physician can evaluate whether it is necessary to surgically remove the pigmented skin lesions. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Black Spots on Lips: Causes and Management Options
Changes in Bowel Patterns and Anal Discomfort: When to Seek Help
Recent changes in bowel habits and anal discomfort? 1. For the past week, I have been experiencing abdominal pain upon waking up, accompanied by difficulty in passing stool. The stool consistency has changed from the usual light yellow, with a rough texture, to a smoother, coffee...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You can make an appointment with the Department of Colorectal Surgery or the Department of Gastroenterology. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Changes in Bowel Patterns and Anal Discomfort: When to Seek Help