Morning Bloating and Gas: Causes and Remedies for Your Discomfort
I experience bloating and excessive flatulence every morning? Hello Dr. Tsai, every morning when I wake up and still lying in bed, I often feel the urge to pass gas, but my family does not have this issue. Sometimes, I even feel the need to use the bathroom, which is a bit bother...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Waking up in the morning with the urge to pass gas or have a bowel movement is a personal habit and is generally not a concern. However, eating a late-night snack before bed is not recommended. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Morning Bloating and Gas: Causes and Remedies for Your Discomfort
How Long Should You Stay Upright After Taking Doxycycline?
Medication Consultation: How long after taking medication can I lie down? 1. Bending over with your upper body parallel to the floor after taking doxycycline may increase the risk of drug-induced esophagitis, especially if the medication has not fully cleared the esophagus. It is...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Because your water intake is relatively high, bending over or exerting pressure on your abdomen immediately after taking medication and drinking water may cause reflux. 2. Elevating your upper body by about 15-30 degrees can help prevent reflux. 3. Each person's ga...[Read More] How Long Should You Stay Upright After Taking Doxycycline?
Understanding Color Changes in Stool: Yellow and Brown Segments Explained
Inquiry Consultation Dear Dr. Tsai, Hello. Today (April 20), during my bowel movement, I noticed that my stool was in a long shape, but the colors at both ends were inconsistent; the front part was yellow, and the back part was brown, with a clear boundary between the two colors...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. This is generally considered a normal phenomenon, often significantly influenced by food. 2. Yellow stool may raise suspicion for pancreatic or biliary diseases, or it could be due to malabsorption of nutrients in the small intestine. Since yellow and brown can be diffi...[Read More] Understanding Color Changes in Stool: Yellow and Brown Segments Explained
Understanding Bowel Habits: Causes and Solutions for Irregularity
I would like to inquire about the causes and ways to improve? Hello Dr. Tsai: I usually have a bowel movement every three days when I am outside (at tutoring classes), and I don't feel much urge to go. However, when I am at home, I have a bowel movement every day. Is this di...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The urge to defecate can be controlled by the brain and may be overlooked when one is busy with other activities. Waking up a little earlier each day to establish a routine of morning bowel movements can help minimize distractions during the day. Ignoring the urge to defec...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Habits: Causes and Solutions for Irregularity
Morning Stomach Pain and Diarrhea: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Experiencing abdominal pain and diarrhea after waking up? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing this issue since around middle school. Sometimes, after I wake up in the morning and have breakfast, I will have stomach pain and the urge to use the bathroom within about 1-2 hours. ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: After meals, especially after breakfast, the urge to have a bowel movement should not be considered irritable bowel syndrome; rather, it is likely a manifestation of the gastrocolic reflex. If it is not too bothersome, you can take the opportunity to have a complete bowel ...[Read More] Morning Stomach Pain and Diarrhea: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms, Concerns, and Insights on IBS
Intestinal issues? Hello Doctor, recently I have been experiencing a sensation of incomplete bowel movements. Sometimes, I have to exert myself to pass out thin stools, but there is no blood. Today, my stool was normal, well-formed, and brown, but there was some water with it. I ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is normal for the colon to contain some moisture or mucus, so there is no need to worry too much. If a colonoscopy is necessary, it can be performed under sedation to alleviate discomfort and pain. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms, Concerns, and Insights on IBS
Understanding Diverticula and Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test Results
Diverticula & Fecal Occult Blood Test Hello, doctor. I underwent a colonoscopy in early March this year, and the results showed no tumors or polyps, but I have internal hemorrhoids and one diverticulum. Recently, I had a stool test, and the fecal occult blood test came back p...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There are many causes of occult blood, including conditions such as moles, polyps, and tumors, as well as enteritis or other gastrointestinal bleeding. A physician should evaluate whether further examination is necessary. Diverticula refer to the degeneration of the muscul...[Read More] Understanding Diverticula and Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test Results
Understanding Chronic Constipation: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Sudden constipation for several days accompanied by a sensation of gastrointestinal motility? Hello, doctor. I have had constipation since childhood, and despite paying close attention to nutrition, consuming adequate fiber, starch, fats, and proteins, and drinking 2800cc of wate...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If your dietary habits are already normal, it is not uncommon to have infrequent bowel movements due to a smaller food intake. It is important to respond to the urge to defecate immediately; otherwise, the stool may become hard and difficult to pass. It is acceptable to ha...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Constipation: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes, Symptoms, and Dietary Tips
Rectal bleeding Hello, doctor. My usual bowel habit is once every two days. Recently, I haven't eaten any particularly spicy foods or large amounts of meat. However, this afternoon I suddenly experienced abdominal pain, similar to the pain associated with diarrhea. After usi...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If the color of the stool is normal but there is bright red blood, it may be due to anal fissures, hemorrhoids, or injury to the mucosa near the anus. It is advisable to consume a light diet, reduce foods that boost energy, and avoid spicy and fried foods initially. If the...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes, Symptoms, and Dietary Tips
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Left lower abdominal pain? Medical History: In late 2019, the patient was diagnosed with fulminant hepatitis and primary biliary cholangitis, and has been on medication since then. Early the following year, the patient underwent surgery for stage 1A endometrial cancer. Currently,...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Left lower abdominal pain should be considered in relation to intestinal adhesions, urinary tract issues, or reproductive system problems—such as pelvic inflammatory disease. Additionally, diverticulitis or enteritis of the colon are also possible causes. It is advisable t...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Can Gastroesophageal Reflux Cause Neck Tightness and Throat Discomfort?
Tightness in the back of the neck? Hello, doctor. I have a problem with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). I underwent an endoscopy last year, which showed mild Grade A reflux. I had been taking medication for a while, but I am currently managing it through dietary adjustmen...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Gastroesophageal reflux can also cause the symptoms you described, with the impact on the ear, nose, and throat mostly being pharyngitis and a sensation of a foreign body in the larynx. In addition to medication, dietary and lifestyle changes are necessary to prevent recur...[Read More] Can Gastroesophageal Reflux Cause Neck Tightness and Throat Discomfort?
Can Eating Undercooked Pork Lead to Tapeworm Infection?
Unfamiliar salted pork (parasite - pork tapeworm) About four days ago, I consumed undercooked salted pork, and yesterday I experienced diarrhea. If the diarrhea was not persistent and only occurred once or twice, is there still a risk of contracting pork tapeworm infection?
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The likelihood of acute gastroenteritis is relatively high. If you suspect it, you can consult an infectious disease specialist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Can Eating Undercooked Pork Lead to Tapeworm Infection?
Understanding Blood in Stool: Is It Hemorrhoids or Colon Cancer?
Fecal occult blood I sometimes notice a bit of blood in my stool. Is this hemorrhoids or colon cancer? Some people say that with hemorrhoids, the blood does not mix with the stool and instead drips into the toilet. However, it happens occasionally, and whenever I see blood in my ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: This qualifies as a family history, and you can consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist to have the physician assess whether a colonoscopy is necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Is It Hemorrhoids or Colon Cancer?
Long-Term Use of PPI Medications: Are There Risks for Stomach Cancer?
Regarding PPI medications for the stomach? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and my doctor prescribed a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). I have read articles stating that PPI medications may increase the risk of gastric cancer. ...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The treatment period for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) ranges from 4 months to 1 year, which is not considered long-term. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Long-Term Use of PPI Medications: Are There Risks for Stomach Cancer?
Managing Bloating and Constipation: Tips for Digestive Health
Digestive-related issues (bloating & constipation) Hello Doctor: 1. I have experienced bloating in my gastrointestinal tract since childhood, but recently the bloating seems to have worsened. Initially, I would only hear gas sounds when I tapped my abdomen, but now it has s...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Because you are exercising, sweating may reduce the amount of water reaching the colon. Additionally, consuming caffeinated beverages can have a diuretic effect, which also decreases the water content in the colon. Therefore, it is important to stay hydrated even when not ...[Read More] Managing Bloating and Constipation: Tips for Digestive Health
Understanding Digestive Issues: What Does Pencil-Thin Stool Mean?
Bowel issues? Hello Dr. Tsai, I am really very worried and hope you can give me some advice. I am 26 years old and started experiencing diarrhea (loose stools) about 3.4 months ago. Occasionally, I have had formed stools, but they have been loose. Last month, I started having mor...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is possible that the stool is softer and has a higher water content, which may cause it to become thinner. Please pay attention to whether you have experienced any recent gastroenteritis or changes in your diet (such as spicy foods or fruits that may cause softer stools...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: What Does Pencil-Thin Stool Mean?
Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Abdominal bloating Hello Doctor: For the past week, I've been experiencing a sudden feeling of heaviness in my lower abdomen, along with bloating and a persistent sensation of needing to pass gas (most noticeable in the first three days). After urinating, I also felt some pa...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is important to drink plenty of water, as urinary tract infections, enteritis, and pelvic inflammatory disease are all possible. If there is no improvement or if you develop a fever, you should seek medical attention promptly. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Understanding Gastroenteritis: Symptoms, Recovery Time, and Dehydration Risks
Some issues related to gastroenteritis? Hello, doctor. Let me describe my condition: Two days ago, I suddenly felt nauseous and had diarrhea (watery stools) after waking up. I only experienced dry heaving once (I felt something rising but couldn't vomit, and I had a sensatio...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Symptoms will gradually improve in about 3-5 days. If there is no improvement and instead you feel weaker, have a fever, abdominal pain, or notice blood in your stool, you should seek medical attention promptly. Dehydration can lead to headaches or low blood pressure. Chan...[Read More] Understanding Gastroenteritis: Symptoms, Recovery Time, and Dehydration Risks
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Causes and Solutions for Abdominal Pain
Gastrointestinal issues About last Wednesday, I went to see a doctor due to abdominal pain. The doctor said it was an issue with my small intestine. After taking medication, I felt much better. However, in the past few days, I've experienced slight, uncertain pain near the l...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Gastritis, excessive stomach acid, or peptic ulcers, as well as enteritis, are possible causes. It is advisable to start with a light diet and avoid caffeinated beverages. If there is no improvement, you may consult a gastroenterologist. Changhua Hospital cares about your ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Causes and Solutions for Abdominal Pain
Understanding Abnormal Health Check Results: Liver and Gastrointestinal Insights
Abnormal health check values? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about the abnormal results from my recent health check-up and whether I need to seek further medical attention or how to improve them. Here are the results: Direct bilirubin is elevated at 0.31 mg/dL, and high-de...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Direct bilirubin is slightly elevated at 0.31 mg/dL. If the total bilirubin is not elevated, there is no need to worry too much. You may consider following up with a hepatobiliary and gastroenterology specialist. 2. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is low at 3...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Health Check Results: Liver and Gastrointestinal Insights