Understanding Constipation: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Bowel movement issues Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my constipation issue. Recently, I have been eating a lot, but my bowel movements are only a small amount, and I have been drinking water as well. The color of my stool is darker than usual. What should I do?
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If you have a habit of constipation, it is recommended to start by adjusting your diet and lifestyle. Reduce fried and irritating foods, and increase your intake of fruits and vegetables along with adequate hydration. Choose a relaxed time to focus on bowel movements and avoid st...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Understanding Benign Polyps: What You Need to Know After a Colonoscopy
About benign polyps? Hello Dr. Chen, I just had a colonoscopy on January 14th. When the scope was inserted, everything appeared normal up to the cecum. However, when the doctor was withdrawing the scope, he took another look and found a very small polyp that was magnified and had...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Due to the lack of biopsy, the nature of the polyp is unknown. If it is an adenomatous polyp, it may develop into cancer, typically over a period of 3 to 5 years. However, if it is a hyperplastic polyp, it will not progress to cancer. It is recommended to undergo another colonosc...[Read More] Understanding Benign Polyps: What You Need to Know After a Colonoscopy
Understanding Unformed Stool: Causes and Traditional Chinese Medicine Solutions
Loose stools I am a third-year junior high school student, and recently my bowel movements have been shapeless, only muddy or scattered. I usually go to bed a bit late. Is it okay to see a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner?
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine can be consulted based on symptoms, which may indicate gastroenteritis or dyspepsia.[Read More] Understanding Unformed Stool: Causes and Traditional Chinese Medicine Solutions
Understanding Liver Cancer Treatment Options and Follow-Up Care
Treatment options for liver cancer? Dear Dr. Chen, My father underwent surgery for gastroesophageal junction cancer (stage III) in November 2015. After the surgery, he had a follow-up positron emission tomography (PET) scan to monitor his recovery, which revealed two liver tumor...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If a series of follow-ups consistently shows a liver tumor that remains unchanged in size, it is likely benign. However, if it was not detected in previous examinations and is a recent finding, especially in the presence of hepatitis B or C, the likelihood of it being liver cance...[Read More] Understanding Liver Cancer Treatment Options and Follow-Up Care
Is It Normal to Hear Gurgling Sounds in Your Stomach When Jumping?
Borborygmi? Is it normal to hear gurgling sounds in the stomach while jumping? Should I get it checked?
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If there are symptoms such as bloating or intestinal obstruction, there may be the presence of bowel sounds.[Read More] Is It Normal to Hear Gurgling Sounds in Your Stomach When Jumping?
Exploring Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps for Diagnosis
Left upper abdominal pain? Hello: I am experiencing pain in the upper left abdomen (there is tenderness and hardness when pressing on the rib area, along with a feeling of bloating, and sometimes the pain is severe enough to cause dry heaving; this occurs after meals). I have con...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is recommended to undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to rule out any gastric issues.[Read More] Exploring Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps for Diagnosis
Understanding Bloating and Acid Reflux: Managing Gastrointestinal Pain
Bloating? Excess stomach acid leading to stomach pain! Hello, doctor. Before I present my issue, I would like to mention that there is a family history of colorectal cancer (my grandmother passed away from it). I have informed other doctors about this, and they all said it was to...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
To diagnose irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it is essential to rule out other conditions of the colon, which may require stool tests, colonoscopy, or barium enema. Regarding diet and lifestyle, it is important to focus on a low-fat, low-dairy, and mildly stimulating diet, while a...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Acid Reflux: Managing Gastrointestinal Pain
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
I hope to scare myself? Hello, doctor! Recently, I noticed blood in my stool, but now there is no more bleeding during bowel movements. However, my stools are often loose, resembling diarrhea, or they are soft with some mucus on them. I also feel like I have stool in my intestine...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Based on the symptoms, it appears to be gastroenteritis. If the symptoms persist, medical attention is necessary. As for the presence of blood in the stool, it may be a result of diarrhea leading to anal fissures or hemorrhoidal bleeding.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding and Managing Rectal Protrusions: A Guide for Patients
Foreign body in the rectum? Last week, I noticed a protrusion inside my anus while having a bowel movement. It hurts when I press on it, and recently that protrusion has turned into a ball-like mass that also hurts when pressed. I would like to ask the doctor how I should handle ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The presence of a protruding mass at the anal opening accompanied by tenderness is most likely due to a hemorrhoidal abscess. It is recommended to consult a colorectal surgeon.[Read More] Understanding and Managing Rectal Protrusions: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Blood Test Results: Assessing Liver Fibrosis with AST Levels
Blood Test Report Doctor: My blood test results show that my AST (also known as GOT) is 20.4, and my platelet count is 204,000. There is no evidence of hepatitis B or C. Can this be used to assess whether the subject has liver fibrosis? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, it is not possible to determine liver fibrosis solely based on this. It is necessary to refer to the A/G ratio, the GOT/GPT ratio, and abdominal ultrasound imaging. Dr. Chen Chi-Feng, attending physician of the Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology at Taoyuan Ge...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Assessing Liver Fibrosis with AST Levels
Left Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Concerns
Dull discomfort in the upper left abdomen with slight pain upon pressing below the left rib cage? Hello, doctor. After having breakfast on Sunday, I felt a slight pain when pressing under my left rib cage. The next day, I started to feel a dull ache in the upper left abdomen, bet...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, regarding gastrointestinal diseases, the discomfort in that area may be related to gastric issues, but it is usually accompanied by acid reflux or belching. Otherwise, consider chicken muscle membrane pain. Dr. Chen Chi-Feng, Attending Physician, Department of Hepatobiliar...[Read More] Left Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Is It Cancer or Just Gas?
Is there a condition of cancer or tumors? Hello Doctor, about a week ago I started feeling bloated and uncomfortable in my left abdomen. When I press on it, it feels firm and I have been experiencing frequent flatulence, but my bowel movements are normal with no abnormalities, ju...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, based on your symptoms, it appears to be gastroenteritis accompanied by bloating. Please consult with Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, a specialist in the Department of Gastroenterology at Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Is It Cancer or Just Gas?
Understanding Bowel Issues: Tips for Teens Facing Digestive Problems
Bowel movement issues Hello Doctor: I am currently in the ninth grade. I used to have regular bowel movements, but recently I have been experiencing difficulty in passing stool. I notice that I eat a lot every day and drink plenty of water in the morning, yet I only manage to pas...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, you may be experiencing gastroenteritis or dyspepsia. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist at the Taoyuan Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, specifically with Dr. Chen Chi-Feng, a specialist in hepatobiliary and gastroenterology.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Tips for Teens Facing Digestive Problems
Understanding Black Stools: Causes and When to Seek Help
The stool is slightly black? I have been experiencing stomach pain recently, and I feel much better after using the bathroom. My stool appears somewhat dark at the front, with a grayish-black color, while the back part is yellow and mud-like. I would like to know what this condit...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Black stools are similar to tar-like, viscous substances. 2. If you experience gastrointestinal discomfort, please visit the outpatient clinic at the Ministry of Health and Welfare Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Gastroenterology, under the care of Dr. Chi-Feng Chen.[Read More] Understanding Black Stools: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Liver Fibrosis: Blood Test Insights and Evaluation Methods
Liver fibrosis Hello Doctor: In June of this year, I had an abdominal ultrasound, and the doctor mentioned that my liver appeared coarse. I learned that this indicates liver fibrosis, which has made me very sad and worried. A month later, I had a blood test, and the results showe...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the accumulation of sufficient liver fibrosis leads to cirrhosis. The diagnosis of cirrhosis is often based on a combination of blood test results and ultrasound imaging of the liver. Factors such as the observation of liver stiffness, platelet count, the GOT/GPT ratio, th...[Read More] Understanding Liver Fibrosis: Blood Test Insights and Evaluation Methods
Dealing with Hard, Pellet-Like Stools: Causes and Solutions
It has been nearly two weeks since I have had hard, pellet-like stools? Hello, doctor. In the past, I would have a bowel movement every morning that would take less than 10 minutes, and it was mostly normal. However, for the past two weeks, I have still been having a bowel moveme...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, constipation may be causing hemorrhoidal bleeding. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, and drink plenty of fluids while avoiding fried and irritating foods. If the bleeding persists, please consult a colorectal surgeon at the Department of Gastroenterology, Taoy...[Read More] Dealing with Hard, Pellet-Like Stools: Causes and Solutions
What's Happening in My Gut? Understanding Digestive Issues
What is happening in the intestines? On Saturday morning, I drank a bowl of hot milk, and I have to eat noodles on both Saturday and Sunday. On Monday night, when I tried to have a bowel movement, I couldn't go, although I felt some urge. When I wiped, there were traces of s...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, for constipation, please eat more fruits and vegetables, and drink plenty of water. Avoid fried and irritating foods. Dr. Chen Chi-Feng, Attending Physician, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] What's Happening in My Gut? Understanding Digestive Issues
Post-Colonoscopy Bleeding: What You Need to Know
Post-colonoscopy bleeding Hello Doctor, I am currently on a business trip abroad. For the past six months, I have been experiencing frequent diarrhea and persistent bowel urgency. I consulted a physician here and underwent a colonoscopy today at 2:30 PM on December 23, 2015. The ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, it is suspected that the bleeding was caused by the biopsy. Generally, the wounds from biopsies are minimal and do not typically lead to bleeding. However, patients with bleeding tendencies may have a higher risk of noticeable bleeding. Bleeding tendencies can include coag...[Read More] Post-Colonoscopy Bleeding: What You Need to Know
Understanding Dizziness and Digestive Issues: When to See a Gastroenterologist
Dizziness accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms? Every once in a while, I experience dizziness (about once a month), along with indigestion. After lunch, I often feel nauseous, and I also experience vomiting and diarrhea. Should I see a gastroenterologist?
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, you can visit the Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology at the Ministry of Health and Welfare Taoyuan Hospital. The attending physician is Dr. Chi-Feng Chen.[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Digestive Issues: When to See a Gastroenterologist
Can Deworming Medication Completely Eliminate Intestinal Parasites?
Can deworming medication completely eliminate parasites? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing diarrhea for over two months now. Initially, I thought it was just a change in my body due to pregnancy, so I didn't pay much attention. However, even after giving birth, I still ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Common parasites can generally be effectively treated with standard antiparasitic medications. Intestinal parasites are not related to colorectal cancer. Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Minist...[Read More] Can Deworming Medication Completely Eliminate Intestinal Parasites?