Health Concerns: Eating Rice Weevil Larvae and Its Effects
Ingesting the larvae of rice weevils? Dear Dr. Chen, I seem to have eaten the larvae of a rice weevil (they appear white and caterpillar-like) while having my meal. I have the following questions: 1. Will this have any adverse effects on my body? 2. If the larvae are alive, wi...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, consuming weevils in rice will not affect the gastrointestinal tract; rather, it is the spoiled and moldy rice that may cause gastroenteritis. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General ...[Read More] Health Concerns: Eating Rice Weevil Larvae and Its Effects
Health Risks of Eating Without Washing Hands: A Gastroenterology Perspective
Eating without washing hands? Hello Dr. Chen: The plastic cup on the table fell to the floor, which is not an indoor floor and is therefore a bit dirtier. After picking up the plastic cup with my hand, I directly used that hand to eat some fruit. Dr. Chen, regarding this situatio...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, we do not grow up in a sterile environment, and the gastrointestinal tract itself has certain defense mechanisms. Unless we are exposed to pathogenic bacteria at a concentration that exceeds a certain level, it is unlikely to cause disease. Wishing you peace and health. Si...[Read More] Health Risks of Eating Without Washing Hands: A Gastroenterology Perspective
Understanding Abnormal Bowel Movements: When to Seek Further Testing
Abnormal bowel movements? In May 2009, a colonoscopy was performed and the results were normal. In October 2012, a polyp was found in the sigmoid colon. In the same month, due to occasional blood-tinged mucus in the stool, another colonoscopy was performed, and the results were n...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, regarding the polyps, it is recommended to just monitor them. Since you are 45 years old, you can start receiving fecal tests for colorectal cancer every two years starting at age 50. The diarrhea with mucus is likely a digestive function issue; it is advisable to reduce o...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Bowel Movements: When to Seek Further Testing
Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux: Symptoms, Treatments, and Dietary Tips
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello, doctor. Last October, I underwent an endoscopy, which revealed redness in the esophagus. I have been experiencing "occasional pain between the bottom of the esophagus and the stomach" and "slight burning in the stomach&...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Jie, Hello. The occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux is not related to the use of Lexotan. However, stress and anxiety may lead to increased gastric acid secretion, which can exacerbate the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. Consuming excessive amounts of milk can cause ...[Read More] Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux: Symptoms, Treatments, and Dietary Tips
Health Risks of Using Moldy Bamboo Chopsticks: What You Need to Know
Using moldy bamboo chopsticks? Dear Dr. Chen, I often use bamboo chopsticks at home, and I have quite a few of them. Sometimes, I may not notice that some pairs have become moldy and end up using them. Tonight, I accidentally used a moldy pair of chopsticks while eating noodles,...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Using moldy bamboo chopsticks occasionally should not pose a significant risk; however, it is advisable to minimize their use due to concerns not only about mold but also about the potential residue from bleaching agents. Bringing your own stainless steel chopsticks is the...[Read More] Health Risks of Using Moldy Bamboo Chopsticks: What You Need to Know
Excessive Gas After Dental Surgery: Is It Normal or a Cause for Concern?
Excessive flatulence? On April 19th, I underwent dental implant surgery. The doctor prescribed me stomach medication, painkillers, and anti-inflammatory drugs for three days. From the 19th to the 23rd, I frequently used the restroom, going 4 to 7 times a day. By the fifth day, it...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Kiddy: Hello, your current symptoms may be related to the medication taken after your dental implant. Please pay attention to your recent diet, focusing on a mild diet low in oil, dairy, and meat. If there is no improvement, you may want to consult a gastroenterologist. Wish...[Read More] Excessive Gas After Dental Surgery: Is It Normal or a Cause for Concern?
Are Apple Peels Safe to Eat? Understanding Health Risks and Pesticide Concerns
Regarding apple skin? Hello Dr. Chen: I am the gentleman who inquired about accidentally consuming a blackened and rotten apple core. The spoiled apple has been discarded, and I appreciate your explanation. I would like to ask Dr. Chen again, as I ate another apple yesterday with...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If pesticide residues do not exceed the safety limits, they are not harmful to the human body. However, the long-term accumulation of toxicity can be harmful to various organs and may even lead to cancer. The best method is to wash fruits and vegetables with running water ...[Read More] Are Apple Peels Safe to Eat? Understanding Health Risks and Pesticide Concerns
Swallowing Small Bone Fragments: What You Need to Know
Swallowing small bone fragments? Dear Dr. Chen, I am the person who previously asked about "accidentally ingesting tape." Thank you for your response. I would like to ask you about an incident that occurred during dinner tonight. While chewing on some pork ribs, I felt...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If small fragments of bone, whether from fish or meat, are accidentally ingested, the first step is to determine if there is any injury to the throat or esophagus. If it is only a laceration and not a penetration of the mucosal tissue, even if symptoms are present, symptom...[Read More] Swallowing Small Bone Fragments: What You Need to Know
Understanding H. Pylori Testing: Alternatives to Endoscopy for Stomach Issues
Helicobacter pylori testing I previously experienced gastrointestinal discomfort and underwent two gastroscopies, which showed inflammation of the stomach and duodenum. Could this be caused by Helicobacter pylori? Is it possible to skip the gastroscopy and directly test for Helic...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The main methods for detecting Helicobacter pylori include the gel method (requiring gastric biopsy), serological method (blood draw), and the C13 breath test (breath sample). Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyu...[Read More] Understanding H. Pylori Testing: Alternatives to Endoscopy for Stomach Issues
Symptoms of Hepatitis B and C: Rash, Fatigue, and Swelling Explained
Symptoms of hepatitis Infection with hepatitis B or C can present with various symptoms. Common symptoms include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. While rashes are not typical symptoms of hepatitis B or C infections, some in...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 70% of acute hepatitis cases present without any obvious symptoms, while the remaining patients exhibit non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, poor appetite, abdominal bloating, and mild drowsiness. Some may report symptoms similar to those of a cold, and it is usually onl...[Read More] Symptoms of Hepatitis B and C: Rash, Fatigue, and Swelling Explained
Understanding Severe Diarrhea: Causes and Remedies for Gastrointestinal Issues
Severe diarrhea Recently, I have been experiencing severe diarrhea, accompanied by intense cramping pain after each episode. I have never had this problem before, and I haven't eaten anything too spicy or greasy lately. On the day this occurred, I drank a cup of coffee, had ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Based on the symptoms, it appears to be gastroenteritis. If possible, temporarily fasting for one meal while replenishing fluids and electrolytes is recommended, followed by a light diet that is low in fat and dairy. If there is no improvement, medical attention will be ne...[Read More] Understanding Severe Diarrhea: Causes and Remedies for Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Discomfort After Overeating
After eating Hello, doctor. Sometimes, if I go a long time without eating and then eat a large amount, I notice a dull pain in my lower left abdomen. After resting for an hour or two, it improves significantly. I would like to know what this issue might be. (I had a colonoscopy l...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Based on the symptoms, it is recommended to first visit a gastroenterologist for an X-ray to check for any signs of bloating or bowel irregularities. If there are none, and medication does not improve the condition, an endoscopy and abdominal ultrasound may be considered. ...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Discomfort After Overeating
Health Risks of Eating Rotten Apple Cores: What You Need to Know
Eating an apple that is rotten or has black spots in the core? Hello Dr. Chen: I would like to ask, if I accidentally ate an apple with a black (rotten) core, and although I currently feel fine, I would like to know what kind of effects eating a rotten apple core might have on my...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: To assess the condition of apple decay, severe cases may lead to gastroenteritis. If there are no discomforting symptoms, simply monitor the situation. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Minis...[Read More] Health Risks of Eating Rotten Apple Cores: What You Need to Know
Accidentally Ingested Tape: What You Need to Know About Risks and Recovery
Ingestion of a small piece of transparent tape? Dr. Chen, hello: I think I accidentally ingested a small piece of transparent tape that was stuck to the outside of my breakfast bag. Currently, I don't feel any unusual symptoms, but I'm a bit worried. May I ask: 1. What ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Generally speaking, small pieces of food wrapping do not affect the gastrointestinal tract and are usually expelled along with food residues. Wishing you safety and health. Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Accidentally Ingested Tape: What You Need to Know About Risks and Recovery
Can You Stop Taking Stool Softeners After Years of Use?
Taking a stool softener? I have been taking a stool softener every night for over three years, but I have noticed that it is no longer effective. Instead, I find that taking fiber supplements works better. After using the stool softener for more than six years, can I suddenly sto...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The usual dosage of a bedtime stool softener is 1 to 3 capsules. If 1 capsule is ineffective, you may consider increasing the dosage; typically, there are no withdrawal symptoms. If using fiber alone is effective, then continue using fiber temporarily. Additionally, increa...[Read More] Can You Stop Taking Stool Softeners After Years of Use?
Understanding Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
The fecal occult blood test result is positive? My father had a positive fecal occult blood test two years ago but has been reluctant to undergo a colonoscopy. At that time, the doctor mentioned that he had mild gastritis from an upper endoscopy, and that he also has diverticulit...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Individuals over the age of 50 can receive free fecal occult blood screening for colorectal cancer every two years from the National Health Administration. If the test result is positive, statistics indicate that approximately 1 in 2 individuals who undergo further colonos...[Read More] Understanding Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding Colonoscopy Reports: Addressing Concerns About Colorectal Health
Colonoscopy report Hello, doctor. Could you please take a look at the colonoscopy report? I am worried that my father might be concealing his condition, and my uncle has previously had colon cancer, which makes me very concerned. Thank you very much for your help. I will take a p...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: According to the report, it is a benign polyp. Please undergo regular fecal occult blood screening for colorectal cancer. Wishing you safety and health. Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Dr. Chen Chi-Feng.[Read More] Understanding Colonoscopy Reports: Addressing Concerns About Colorectal Health
Understanding Abnormal Stool Appearance: What Red Spots Could Mean
Stool shape If the stool is shaped normally like a sausage but has red spots on the inside and surface, and there is no blood on the toilet paper after wiping the anal area, is this a serious issue?
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you are unable to determine whether there is bleeding, it is recommended that you undergo colorectal cancer screening and check for fecal occult blood. Individuals aged 50 and older are eligible for a free fecal test for colorectal cancer screening every two years throu...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Stool Appearance: What Red Spots Could Mean
Important Guidelines for Fecal Occult Blood Test in Gastroenterology
Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) During my last visit, the doctor asked me to perform a fecal occult blood test and submit the sample myself. I will review the results during my next appointment. What should I pay attention to? Should the test tube be refrigerated or kept at room t...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: For the fecal occult blood test, you only need to follow the instructions for collection; the specimen does not need to be refrigerated. Wishing you peace and health. Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Important Guidelines for Fecal Occult Blood Test in Gastroenterology
Understanding Unusual Stool Colors: What Deep Orange and Light Orange Mean
The bowel movement is different from usual? Today, I noticed something unusual during a bowel movement. There were some deep orange substances surrounding my stool, and some were light orange. I hope to understand the reason for this.
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Generally, the presence of orange substances in stool is usually due to food residues, medications, or food coloring. It is advisable to monitor subsequent bowel movements. If you are concerned, you may visit a gastroenterologist for evaluation, and consider undergoing tes...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Stool Colors: What Deep Orange and Light Orange Mean