How to Determine If You Have High or Low Stomach Acid
How to determine whether there is excess or insufficient stomach acid? 1. How can one determine whether gastroesophageal reflux is caused by excessive or insufficient stomach acid, and what tests should be conducted to assess the levels of stomach acid? 2. What treatments are av...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The issue is likely caused by gastric acid refluxing into the esophagus. Some cases are due to excessive gastric acid production caused by diet or psychological stress, while others may occur under normal gastric acid conditions but are exacerbated by increased abdominal p...[Read More] How to Determine If You Have High or Low Stomach Acid
Loose Stools, Diarrhea, and Weight Loss: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Loose stools or diarrhea and weight loss? Hello Doctor: I was diagnosed with gastroenteritis in mid-March, and since then my stools have often been loose but occasionally formed or even diarrhea (without abdominal pain). Before the gastroenteritis, my bowel habits were irregular,...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If the thyroid blood test report is normal compared to the reference values, you can continue to monitor whether your bowel habits will return to normal or if the current condition becomes a new baseline. Dietary adjustments or taking probiotics may help; if there is no im...[Read More] Loose Stools, Diarrhea, and Weight Loss: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Gastrointestinal issues Since last July, I suddenly started feeling nauseous, but I haven't actually vomited for several days. It might be due to fear or psychological factors. I have sought medical attention and was initially diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Psychological factors, organ diseases, or gastrointestinal dysfunction (such as rapid or slow motility) are all possible causes. To rule out any organ-related issues, it is necessary to conduct examinations to check for ulcers or inflammation. If there are any other concer...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Managing Mild Gastric and Duodenal Ulcers: Medication Insights and Tips
Mild gastric ulcer, mild duodenal ulcer medication, excessive gastric acid? Current medications include LEEYO (Escitalopram) 10mg, Doxepin 25mg twice daily, LYRICA (Pregabalin) 75mg twice daily, Metformin 500mg, Tamsulosin 0.2mg, Ativan (Lorazepam) 0.5mg four times daily, and Zol...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. The recommended adult dosage for Dialicon is 2-3 tablets, taken 3-4 times daily, with adjustments made based on clinical needs. 2. If you are concerned about sleeplessness, you may ask your physician to adjust the dosage for the dinner meal. Changhua Hospital cares abou...[Read More] Managing Mild Gastric and Duodenal Ulcers: Medication Insights and Tips
Understanding Diarrhea and Blood in Stool: Treatment Options and Risks
Diarrhea, bloody stools Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing diarrhea, watery stools, and bloody stools with mucus for a month. I have watery diarrhea with blood and mucus after every meal, but eating porridge seems to reduce the diarrhea. Last week, my colonoscopy report showe...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Lymphoid hyperplasia does not equal lymphoma. However, it is necessary to monitor the inflammatory condition, as lymphoma can indeed develop in the colon. 2. Tubular adenoma is a precancerous lesion, not cancer; removing it resolves the issue, and no medication treatmen...[Read More] Understanding Diarrhea and Blood in Stool: Treatment Options and Risks
Managing Gastroesophageal Reflux: Symptoms, Solutions, and When to Seek Help
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) The doctor diagnosed gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and post-nasal drip, and currently, there is phlegm in the throat, hoarseness, and a sensation of wheezing. The following points were noted: 1. The wheezing sensation is likely due ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: To address the root cause of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), in addition to medication, it is important to pay attention to lifestyle habits, dietary practices, and even factors such as stress and body posture, as these can all be contributing factors. If the hoars...[Read More] Managing Gastroesophageal Reflux: Symptoms, Solutions, and When to Seek Help
Post-Appendectomy Numbness: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Post-appendectomy Hello, doctor. Why is it that after the surgery, my right hand's little finger and ring finger, extending down to the right side of my right foot, are constantly numb, and I have no sensation in the skin?
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Theoretically, this is completely unrelated. You can consult a neurologist to determine the cause. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun[Read More] Post-Appendectomy Numbness: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Understanding Your Doctor's Recommendation for a CT Scan After Ultrasound
After the ultrasound, the doctor asked me to undergo a CT scan, which made me a bit anxious? I previously had acute pancreatitis and have been following up with my doctor. During my last visit, the doctor requested a CT scan after I completed an ultrasound, which made me a bit wo...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Diagnosis: Hypoechoic change in the pancreas, nature? This likely indicates the presence of a hypoechoic shadow in the pancreatic region, so a CT scan is necessary to confirm if there are any issues. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Your Doctor's Recommendation for a CT Scan After Ultrasound
Post-Dinner Chest and Back Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Chest and back discomfort after dinner? Dear Dr. Tsai, For the past month, I have been experiencing symptoms similar to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Two to three weeks ago, the main symptoms included severe belching and abdominal bloating after meals, along with a sen...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you have the habit of drinking coffee or tea (black tea/green tea), consuming sweets (chocolate), or eating fried foods, try eliminating these to see if your symptoms persist. If you are using a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), continue to do so. Additionally, pay attention...[Read More] Post-Dinner Chest and Back Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Managing Symptoms of Acid Reflux and Associated Breathing Issues
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) The doctor diagnosed gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and post-nasal drip. Currently, the symptoms include phlegm in the throat, throat irritation, a bitter taste in the mouth upon waking, and a persistent sensation of wheezing, which ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Gastroesophageal reflux can potentially irritate the trachea, leading to symptoms of wheezing. If you are already experiencing wheezing, you may consult a pulmonologist who can assess whether a bronchodilator is necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsa...[Read More] Managing Symptoms of Acid Reflux and Associated Breathing Issues
Is Undercooked Pork Dangerous? Parasite Risks and Health Concerns
Eating undercooked pork can pose a risk of parasitic infections. One of the primary concerns is Trichinella spiralis, which can cause trichinosis. Additionally, there are other parasites such as Taenia solium, which can lead to cysticercosis. It is essential to ensure that pork i...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Generally speaking, temperatures around 50-60 degrees Celsius are sufficient to denature animal proteins, which means the likelihood of survival is very low, so there is no need to worry excessively at this point. If you experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea...[Read More] Is Undercooked Pork Dangerous? Parasite Risks and Health Concerns
Understanding Digestive Issues: Insights on Medication and Diet Impact
Digestion and Defecation Hello, Dr. Tsai. After my gastroscopy, the doctor mentioned that I have some abrasions in my stomach and mild inflammation in my duodenum. Previously, I was taking medications including Omeprazole (20 mg), Magnesium Oxide (250 mg), and Gastronorm (40 mg) ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. It may not necessarily be related; if you have concerns, you can stop using it for now. 2. Food should be chewed thoroughly; any formed substances are likely due to inadequate chewing. 3. The frequency of follow-up examinations should be assessed by a clinical physician...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Insights on Medication and Diet Impact
Understanding Digestive Issues: Causes and Solutions for Abnormal Bowel Movements
Bowel irregularities Hello, Doctor. I previously consulted with you, and I appreciate your kind and professional response. After undergoing an endoscopy, the doctor mentioned that I have some abrasions in my stomach and mild inflammation in the duodenum. I was initially prescribe...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Please provide the content you would like me to translate into English.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Causes and Solutions for Abnormal Bowel Movements
Addressing Concerns About Duodenal Ulcers and Medication Management
Previous inquiry response concerns? Hello Dr. Tsai, thank you very much for your previous response. I have some questions regarding your last answer (my current condition includes a duodenal ulcer and mild gastritis, and I have been taking three medications: Sucralfate, Magnesium...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. If you stop taking the medication for about 3-5 days, you can determine whether the symptoms are side effects. If it is indeed caused by the medication, you should seek medical attention promptly to change the medication. 2. There are two mechanisms for reducing gastric...[Read More] Addressing Concerns About Duodenal Ulcers and Medication Management
Managing Acid Reflux Symptoms During the Pandemic: Key Questions Answered
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) On February 2, 2020, I caught a cold, which resolved by the end of February. However, I have been experiencing a burning sensation in my esophagus, a feeling of something stuck in my throat with phlegm, an itchy throat, hoarseness, and a per...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. If the symptoms are mild, you can first change your dietary habits by avoiding tea, coffee, spicy foods, fried foods, and high-fat, high-protein foods. If the symptoms worsen, you should seek medical attention. 2. A burning sensation is not normal; you may try drinking ...[Read More] Managing Acid Reflux Symptoms During the Pandemic: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Treatment, Side Effects, and Recovery
Can gastric ulcers heal? Hello, Doctor. After undergoing an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, the physician mentioned that I have some erosion (likely referring to a duodenal ulcer) and mild gastritis. The doctor prescribed Sucralfate (20 mg), Magnesium Oxide tablets (250 mg), an...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. First, discontinue the medication to see if the side effects persist. 2. One medication suppresses gastric acid secretion, while the other neutralizes gastric acid; their mechanisms of action are different. 3. Depending on clinical needs, improvement does not necessaril...[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Treatment, Side Effects, and Recovery
Is My Bad Breath Linked to Gastrointestinal Issues?
Is my bad breath coming from my gastrointestinal tract? This is a lengthy narrative about my battle against bad breath, and I hope you will listen to my story. I have visited traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, dentists, otolaryngologists, and gastroenterologists, but non...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Bad breath is not absolutely related to bacteria or Helicobacter pylori, so there is no need for antibiotics. If you have already consulted with traditional Chinese medicine, dentistry, otolaryngology, and gastroenterology, there is no need to worry too much. You should pa...[Read More] Is My Bad Breath Linked to Gastrointestinal Issues?
Understanding Right-Sided Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Right-sided lower back pain? I apologize for the interruption. Since I started staying up late to study for exams in middle school, I would even pull all-nighters. Afterward, I would occasionally experience sharp pain in my lower right back that lasts for about a day, but then it...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The liver does not have pain receptors, so inflammation will not present any symptoms unless it is in a very severe state. Your condition is likely not serious. Instead, you should pay attention to whether your sitting posture is correct or if you have been sitting for a l...[Read More] Understanding Right-Sided Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Managing Diarrhea and Nausea: Tips for Relief and Recovery
Diarrhea and feeling nauseous after eating? Hello Doctor, I am currently in the Philippines and experiencing diarrhea. My symptoms include having bowel movements about 4-5 times a day, but each time it’s only a small amount (watery stools). Before the diarrhea, I experience some ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: I'm not sure if your symptoms have improved. If you have antidiarrheal medication, you can take it first, along with replenishing fluids and maintaining a light diet. If you can eat, you may drink diluted water or sports drinks, and fasting is not necessary. For abdom...[Read More] Managing Diarrhea and Nausea: Tips for Relief and Recovery
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Managing GERD and Anxiety
Gastrointestinal issues Hello, Dr. Tsai. I recall experiencing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) since around middle school. At that time, the symptoms were intermittent, and I didn't realize I needed medical attention. However, as I've grown older, esp...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If symptoms persist, it is advisable to avoid sweets and beverages like black tea, as they can exacerbate the condition. Individuals with a naturally anxious disposition tend to secrete more gastric acid or experience gastric spasms. Consuming drinks like tea and coffee ma...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Managing GERD and Anxiety