Weight Loss and Esophagitis: Understanding the Connection
Weight loss Hello, I would like to ask if I have been diagnosed with mild esophagitis after undergoing an endoscopy and have been taking medication for about a week. Can esophagitis cause weight loss? I have lost about 5 kilograms in two weeks. I am currently eating three regular...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Generally speaking, severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) that persists for a period of time can lead to loss of appetite; however, esophagitis rarely causes weight loss. It is advisable to discuss any symptoms of weight loss with your physician for further evaluat...[Read More] Weight Loss and Esophagitis: Understanding the Connection
Understanding Changes in Stool Size: When to Seek Medical Advice
Stool becomes thin? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my bowel movement issues. I usually have a bowel movement once or twice a day. Generally, I have a bowel movement after waking up, and then again between 9 and 10 AM after arriving at work. The stool from my morning bowe...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Based on the symptoms, it appears to be related to colorectal function and difficulties in stool formation. If the symptoms do not worsen or if there is no presence of blood in the stool, then further observation is advisable. Wishing you safety and good health. Sincerely,...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool Size: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks After Exposure
Hepatitis B Last Monday, I accidentally drank from a beverage that my friend, who has hepatitis B, had consumed during our meal. The next day, Tuesday, I went to the hospital for a blood test. Yesterday, I received the report showing that the hepatitis B surface antigen is negati...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Hepatitis B is not transmitted through food. 2. Even if one is infected with Hepatitis B, there will be an incubation period, and surface antibodies will not appear that quickly. Wishing you peace and health. Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan Ho...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks After Exposure
Understanding Your Stomach Discomfort: Symptoms and Possible Causes
I have a lot of discomfort in my stomach? Hello: Recently, I've been experiencing discomfort in my stomach for the past few days. Sometimes it's so bad that I can't sleep at night. When I haven't eaten, my stomach feels empty and I also feel a bit nauseous (ab...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Based on the symptoms, both peptic ulcer disease and gastritis are possible. It is recommended to undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, as the symptoms are already quite evident. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology Departmen...[Read More] Understanding Your Stomach Discomfort: Symptoms and Possible Causes
Should You Cancel Your Follow-Up Appointment and Stool Test?
Arrange for a stool examination? I previously had stomach pain and visited a doctor, who has already scheduled my next appointment and arranged for a stool test (I have already picked up the container from the lab). However, I am feeling much better now (I no longer have stomach ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The abdominal pain has slightly alleviated and can be monitored further. The diarrhea has improved, and a stool examination is temporarily not necessary. Wishing you peace and good health. Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Wel...[Read More] Should You Cancel Your Follow-Up Appointment and Stool Test?
Does Eating Belviq Lead to Weight Gain? Understanding the Risks
Will taking Belviq cause weight gain? Is it easy to gain weight from taking Belviq?
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Currently, there is no information indicating that taking Belaric will cause weight gain. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Chih-Feng, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Does Eating Belviq Lead to Weight Gain? Understanding the Risks
Understanding Gastric Healing: When to Stop Medication and Monitor Symptoms
The stomach seems to have difficulty forming a scab? It seems that my stomach has fewer symptoms, but I am still paying close attention to my diet and still feel some symptoms. I've heard that I should continue medication until the stomach has healed completely, which might ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The treatment duration for gastric ulcers is generally 4 to 6 weeks, although some individuals may require a longer period. Inadequate treatment can lead to scarring and deformation, as well as a higher risk of recurrence. Wishing you safety and good health. Sincerely, Dr....[Read More] Understanding Gastric Healing: When to Stop Medication and Monitor Symptoms
Managing Gallbladder Polyps: Prevention and Dietary Tips
Management of Gallbladder Polyps I have had gallbladder polyps for about 10 years and have been undergoing regular ultrasound examinations every year. What preventive measures and maintenance should I take, and how should I adjust my diet?
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Gallbladder polyps should be monitored with ultrasound every six months. If they are larger than 1 cm, cholecystectomy is required. Generally, it is related to individual constitution, and only monitoring is necessary. Some studies suggest a possible correlation with fat i...[Read More] Managing Gallbladder Polyps: Prevention and Dietary Tips
Understanding Mild Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Mild abdominal pain? Hello doctor, recently I have been experiencing occasional abdominal pain. However, the pain is not localized; it feels like it is concentrated at a single point and is only mild. The pain has occurred in both the left lower abdomen and the left upper abdomen...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Intermittent abdominal pain is usually related to issues with the intestines. Pain in the left upper and lower abdomen pertains to the left colon area. Conditions such as inflammation, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea may all occur. Wishing you safety and health. Since...[Read More] Understanding Mild Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Intermittent Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Insights
Recently experiencing intermittent abdominal pain? In recent days, I have been experiencing abdominal pain that starts in the early morning hours, making it difficult to sleep. The pain is particularly intense when lying flat, but it does not occur when lying on my sides. Sometim...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Intermittent abdominal pain is usually related to gastrointestinal dysfunction and is essentially a symptom. The underlying cause should be evaluated by a gastroenterologist. Wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology, Taoyuan Hospita...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Insights
Managing Gas Issues: Probiotics and Dietary Choices for Digestive Health
Medication issues I have a tendency to experience excessive gas, and after undergoing an endoscopy, my doctor confirmed that my condition is normal and not a disease, but rather a symptom. However, this issue has been affecting others around me. I have already reduced my intake o...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Based on the symptoms, it appears to be caused by dyspepsia. In addition to reducing the intake of gas-producing foods, it is also advisable to limit high-fat, high-dairy, and irritating foods. Probiotics can be tried, but individual responses can vary significantly, and t...[Read More] Managing Gas Issues: Probiotics and Dietary Choices for Digestive Health
Signs of Liver Issues: Understanding Red Palms and Health Concerns
Symptoms of liver dysfunction? Hello, research indicates that individuals with liver issues often have reddened palms. I happen to have slightly reddened palms and my soles are also redder than others, but my liver function and abdominal ultrasound results are normal. If the redd...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Indeed, patients with chronic liver disease may exhibit palmar erythema; however, the presence of red palms does not necessarily indicate liver problems. Please continue to monitor the situation. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Chi-Feng, Gastroenterology...[Read More] Signs of Liver Issues: Understanding Red Palms and Health Concerns
Understanding Nexium for Superficial Ulcers: Duration and Side Effects
Medications for Peptic Ulcers Hello, doctor. A few days ago, I underwent an endoscopy and found a small red spot approximately 0.5 cm. The biopsy pathology report indicated superficial ulcer. The doctor prescribed Nexium 40 mg to be taken once daily for three months. I would like...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The treatment course for gastric ulcers typically lasts 4 to 6 weeks. Depending on the improvement of symptoms, it may be extended to 3 to 4 months if necessary. Generally, Nexium rarely causes serious side effects; however, some individuals may experience abdominal pain, ...[Read More] Understanding Nexium for Superficial Ulcers: Duration and Side Effects
Understanding Cirrhosis: Diagnostic Tools and Options in Taoyuan
Diagnosed with liver cirrhosis? I have been diagnosed with liver cirrhosis by a gastroenterologist. The surface of my liver is very rough, and I have undergone ultrasound examinations for over ten years without any improvement. I recently moved to Taoyuan and would like to know w...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: For the follow-up of liver cirrhosis, it is generally recommended to undergo abdominal ultrasound and blood tests every 3 to 6 months. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health ...[Read More] Understanding Cirrhosis: Diagnostic Tools and Options in Taoyuan
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Bloating: Is Delaying Bowel Movements Normal?
Frequent abdominal bloating and pain? If you really need to have a bowel movement but hold it in for about 30 minutes to an hour, could this cause diarrhea? The stool that comes out is somewhat loose, but there are also normal-looking pieces. Additionally, there is frequent bloat...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Occasionally delaying bowel movements may trigger peristalsis, leading to loose stools or diarrhea, which falls within the range of physiological responses. However, if you frequently experience bloating and abdominal pain, it is necessary to consult a gastroenterologist. ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Bloating: Is Delaying Bowel Movements Normal?
Post-Appendectomy: Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits
After undergoing appendectomy? After undergoing appendicitis surgery on March 23, everything was normal for the first two weeks, with a bowel movement once a day. However, since the third week, I have had the urge to have a bowel movement right after eating, and this has continue...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If it is related to surgery, you need to see a gastroenterologist for diagnosis and treatment. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Post-Appendectomy: Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits
Frequent Urgency After Meals: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Having to use the restroom immediately after eating? This phenomenon has been occurring for three years, but previously it would happen once every few months. In the past six months, it has been happening daily, specifically after meals (within 10 to 20 minutes), resulting in loo...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Based on the symptoms, it may be irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but a diagnosis from a gastroenterologist is still necessary. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Frequent Urgency After Meals: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Post-Endoscopic Polypectomy Care: Recovery Tips and Lifestyle Impact
Endoscopic removal of colorectal polyps? After endoscopic removal of colon polyps, what should be noted? How long is the recovery period? Will it cause any inconvenience to normal life and work? Is it true, as mentioned online, that one should avoid riding a motorcycle and going ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Avoid excessive strain on the abdomen, and be mindful of any abdominal pain or blood in the stool. Generally, 3 to 5 days is not considered safe. Wishing you safety and health. Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Dr. Ch...[Read More] Post-Endoscopic Polypectomy Care: Recovery Tips and Lifestyle Impact
Feeling Constantly Hungry: Gastrointestinal Issues and Solutions
I always feel like I'm not full? I have recently been feeling constantly hungry and keep eating. If I try to resist eating between meals, I experience stomach pain and cramps. Sometimes, even when my stomach hurts, I feel pain while eating. In just a week, my weight has incr...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Please visit the gastroenterology department first, as you need to schedule an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to rule out peptic ulcer disease. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of...[Read More] Feeling Constantly Hungry: Gastrointestinal Issues and Solutions
Persistent Hiccups: Causes and Remedies for Stuck Air Bubbles
Persistent hiccups? I used to rarely hiccup, but recently I've been hiccuping more often. Additionally, I feel like I can't get the hiccups out, and there are a lot of small bubbles trapped in my throat, mixed with saliva. This sensation persists for a while, and I keep...
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You can arrange for an endoscopy and other examinations in the gastroenterology department. In addition to gastrointestinal issues, conditions affecting the liver, gallbladder, and even the lungs may also cause hiccups. Wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi...[Read More] Persistent Hiccups: Causes and Remedies for Stuck Air Bubbles