Differentiating Between Liver Abscess and Liver Tumor: Key Insights
How to differentiate between liver abscess and liver tumor? My boyfriend was diagnosed with liver cancer by the attending physician during an ultrasound at National Taiwan University Hospital, with a tumor approximately 9 centimeters in size. However, after being hospitalized and...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello IRENE: Dr. Tsai Chun-Yen has been busy recently, assisted by Director Chen Ching-Pin from the Health Education Department. Liver abscesses are generally caused by microbial infections. There are many types of liver tumors, including both benign and malignant forms. Typicall...[Read More] Differentiating Between Liver Abscess and Liver Tumor: Key Insights
Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: Causes and Concerns for Liver Health
Liver enzyme issues? Hello, Dr. Tsai. Recently, I had to report to a new company and underwent a medical examination at a hospital, where my ALT level was found to be 124. However, tests for hepatitis B and C were negative. Following the doctor's instructions, I took medicat...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Wade: Dr. Tsai Jun-Yan has been very busy recently, so the director of the health education department is responding on his behalf. In addition to hepatitis B and C, there are also hepatitis A and other types caused by viruses, autoimmune conditions, and medications. It is ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: Causes and Concerns for Liver Health
Understanding Stomach Inflammation vs. Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms
Is it gastritis or irritable bowel syndrome? I experience nausea both before and after eating, and I have a persistent dull pain above my navel. Sometimes I feel the urge to have a bowel movement, but I feel like there’s nothing there... I can't pass anything. My stools are ...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello NED: Director Tsai Jun-Yan has been quite busy recently, so the Director of the Health Education Department is responding on his behalf. Your symptoms resemble irritable bowel syndrome; however, it is important to rule out other organic gastrointestinal diseases. It is best...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Inflammation vs. Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms
Understanding Pancreatic Insufficiency in Children: When to Seek Specialist Care
Growth retardation A 2-year-and-8-month-old child weighs only 11 kg (underweight). After a stool examination, it was found that the child has pancreatic insufficiency, which prevents the breakdown of fats (with a value of only 5). The pediatric gastroenterologist is currently pre...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Due to the recent busyness of Director Tsai Jun-Yan, the Director of the Health Education Department is responding on his behalf. Being underweight can be related to pancreatic insufficiency, body constitution, and genetics. It is best to collaborate with a physician for...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Insufficiency in Children: When to Seek Specialist Care
Are Polyps the Same as Hemorrhoids? Understanding the Differences and Care
Are polyps the same as hemorrhoids? My father has been experiencing rectal bleeding and suspects hemorrhoids, so he underwent a colonoscopy. The doctor said he had polyps, which have been removed. Are polyps the same as hemorrhoids? What should he pay attention to after the remov...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Yaya: Colorectal polyps are abnormal growths within the colon and are not hemorrhoids. They can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters, with both benign and malignant types reported in the literature. The larger the polyp, the greater the likelihood of...[Read More] Are Polyps the Same as Hemorrhoids? Understanding the Differences and Care
Essential Liver Health Checks: Importance, Costs, and Local Resources
Liver organ examination Hello, Dr. Tsai. Recently, I saw my uncle collapse due to liver disease, which made me feel anxious. Currently, I work in law enforcement, and my lifestyle and diet are irregular. I have never had my liver checked before. Before undergoing liver function t...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Mr. Tsai: You should first go to the hospital to check for chronic hepatitis. It is best to consult a qualified hepatologist or gastroenterologist. The examination should include liver function tests, hepatitis B and C virus antigen and antibody tests, and liver ultrasound...[Read More] Essential Liver Health Checks: Importance, Costs, and Local Resources
Is It Colon Cancer? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Is it colorectal cancer? Hello, Doctor: My daughter is 26 years old and has no family history of cancer. She was diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome during her three years in high school. In early 2003, she had a stool occult blood test due to greenish stools, which was negat...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Xiao Zheng: If you frequently experience bowel movement issues and suspect blood in your stool, it is advisable to undergo a colonoscopy or a sigmoidoscopy combined with lower gastrointestinal imaging. This is because the accuracy and specificity of fecal occult blood test...[Read More] Is It Colon Cancer? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Can Beer Yeast Be Safe for Liver and Stomach Issues?
Can individuals with liver and stomach issues consume brewer's yeast? Hello! I would like to ask you, my brother is a healthy carrier of hepatitis B. Is it safe for him to consume brewer's yeast? Additionally, my father often experiences acid reflux, but his health chec...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Ivor: The components of brewer's yeast include amino acids, proteins, B vitamins, and minerals. Its primary function is to supplement nutrients that may be insufficient in daily intake, and it does not have any specific therapeutic effects on chronic hepatitis or gastr...[Read More] Can Beer Yeast Be Safe for Liver and Stomach Issues?
Preventing Esophageal Variceal Rupture in Patients with Cirrhosis
Esophageal variceal rupture If esophageal varices have ruptured twice, there is a significant risk of re-bleeding. Given the presence of cirrhosis, it is crucial to take preventive measures to avoid further complications. Regular monitoring and management of liver disease, along ...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Lu: Esophageal variceal hemorrhage occurs due to elevated pressure in the portal venous system, commonly caused by conditions such as cirrhosis, cancer, and inferior vena cava obstruction. If the underlying cause of portal hypertension is not addressed, there is a risk of ...[Read More] Preventing Esophageal Variceal Rupture in Patients with Cirrhosis
Understanding Upper Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Dull pain in the upper right abdomen (near the lower edge of the right rib cage)? Hello, Dr. Tsai: I have been experiencing dull pain in my upper right abdomen for almost two years. Six months ago, I underwent liver function tests (GOT, GPT) and an ultrasound, both of which retur...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, there are many potential causes for pain in the upper right abdomen, including gallstones, hepatitis, peptic ulcers, or pancreatitis. Additionally, neuropathic pain, functional gastrointestinal disorders, colorectal pathology, or urinary system disorders could also be poss...[Read More] Understanding Upper Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Hematemesis Hello, doctor: I would like to ask... A few days ago, I experienced diarrhea and noticed blood in my stool (bright red blood mixed with the stool). This has occurred one to two times in the past few days, with a small amount mixed in. I had a colon polyp removed two y...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Nicy: Blood in the stool can be caused by hemorrhoidal bleeding, polyps, colorectal cancer, or inflammatory bowel diseases, among others. It is best to promptly consult a qualified gastroenterologist for a complete colonoscopy. Gastroenterology Specialist, Dr. Tsai Jun-Yan.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Understanding Slow Digestion and Binge Purging: Seeking Solutions
Slow digestion of food? Hello, I have been experiencing episodes of self-induced vomiting for many years, possibly due to my fear of gaining weight. However, I do not do this after every meal; I only resort to it when I feel very full. Over time, I have noticed that when I induce...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Winnie: You should first undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy or an upper GI series to check for any obstruction in the upper digestive tract (such as chronic duodenal ulcers, gastric ulcers, or tumors) before considering treatment options. Gastroenterology, Dr. Tsai...[Read More] Understanding Slow Digestion and Binge Purging: Seeking Solutions
Consequences of Needle Stick Injury from Hepatitis C for Hepatitis B Carriers
Stabbed by a needle contaminated with Hepatitis C? If a person who is a carrier of hepatitis B is accidentally punctured with a needle used by a hepatitis C patient, there are several potential outcomes and considerations to keep in mind. 1. **Risk of Hepatitis C Infection**: T...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Vicky: The chance of contracting hepatitis C after being punctured by a needle from a hepatitis C patient is 3-10%. The incubation period for hepatitis C is 2-26 weeks, with an average of 7-8 weeks. Additionally, serum HCV-RNA can become positive within 1-2 weeks, so it is ...[Read More] Consequences of Needle Stick Injury from Hepatitis C for Hepatitis B Carriers
Can I Transmit Hepatitis B to My Partner During Pregnancy?
Hello, how can I assist you today? Hello, doctor. I have a question to ask... I am a carrier of hepatitis B. My test results are as follows: (SGOT 23.00), (SGPT 31.00), (total bilirubin 0.50), (albumin 4.10), (creatinine 1.00), (AFP 2.0), (HBsAg (+) 554)... The doctor said I am a...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, gentleman: The transmission risk of hepatitis B through bodily fluids or sexual intercourse is very low. If you are concerned about the possibility of infection, you can receive the hepatitis B vaccine for prevention, although it does not guarantee the production of surfac...[Read More] Can I Transmit Hepatitis B to My Partner During Pregnancy?
Is My Liver in Trouble? Understanding Symptoms and Risks
Is there something wrong with my liver? Hello Doctor: I have had a drinking habit for nearly 20 years. I was involved in a car accident in 1994, which resulted in a ruptured liver. I have had follow-up visits since then, and everything was normal. However, my last follow-up visit...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Mr. Zheng: Your symptoms are very similar to an outbreak of hepatitis. It is best to go to the hospital for a blood test to check your liver function and to undergo an abdominal ultrasound to determine whether it is alcoholic hepatitis or hepatitis A, B, or C. Chronic hepati...[Read More] Is My Liver in Trouble? Understanding Symptoms and Risks
Understanding Jaundice and High Cholesterol in Young Children: Causes and Treatments
Jaundice & Hyperlipidemia Doctor: Hello! I would like to ask you about the causes of jaundice and hyperlipidemia, how to prevent the condition from worsening, and how to treat it. My child is only a little over 2 years old, yet has these conditions, and I am very worried abou...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Ms. Hsu: There are many causes of jaundice, including acute and chronic hepatitis, bile duct stones, infections, liver and biliary tumors, genetic conditions, congenital diseases, and autoimmune disorders, among others. In a child over 2 years old presenting with this condi...[Read More] Understanding Jaundice and High Cholesterol in Young Children: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Your Hepatitis B Carrier Status: Key Insights and Next Steps
excuse me? Hello, doctor. I have a few questions to ask you. I am a carrier of hepatitis B and have regular check-ups. This is my report from last month. Could you please explain what it means? I only know that I have hepatitis but I'm not sure which type of carrier I am. I ...
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, gentleman: Hepatitis B carriers can be classified into healthy carriers and unhealthy carriers. If liver function and ultrasound results have been normal for more than six months, one can be considered a healthy carrier. Based on your description, you should be classified ...[Read More] Understanding Your Hepatitis B Carrier Status: Key Insights and Next Steps
Understanding HBsAg: Military Eligibility and Work Restrictions
HBsAg (Hepatitis Hello: I have been HBsAg positive for nearly 10 years, HBeAg negative, and ALT normal. 1. Can I enlist in the military? 2. What types of jobs are not allowed? 3. How can I make HBsAg turn negative?
Dr. Cai Junyan reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Mr. Lee: As a carrier of Hepatitis B (HBsAg+), if you are HBeAg negative and have had normal liver function tests for over six months, you are classified as a healthy carrier and can generally perform all types of work. However, you should not donate blood to prevent the ri...[Read More] Understanding HBsAg: Military Eligibility and Work Restrictions