Understanding Your Digestive Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Diarrhea can be caused by consuming contaminated food or may be due to other underlying issues? On Tuesday afternoon, I bought a cup of coffee at the hospital, and the staff there also drank it without any issues. That evening, I had the same meal as my family, and they were fine...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If there are no specific symptoms, it is recommended to have a light diet in small amounts along with hydration, primarily focusing on carbohydrates, and then monitor the situation.[Read More] Understanding Your Digestive Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Low Alkaline Phosphatase: Impact of Birth Control Pills on Liver Health?
Low alkaline phosphatase levels? Hello, Doctor. I recently had a health check-up, and the report indicated that my alkaline phosphatase levels are low. I have been taking oral contraceptives, and I would like to know if the medication could be affecting this value. Is it putting ...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
There is no need to worry about being slightly low.[Read More] Low Alkaline Phosphatase: Impact of Birth Control Pills on Liver Health?
Sudden Severe Abdominal Pain: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Severe abdominal pain? Hello, doctor. This morning, while I was lying in bed, I suddenly experienced severe abdominal pain (I was lying on my side at the time), accompanied by loud bowel sounds and a slight urge to use the restroom. After using the restroom, I felt somewhat bette...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is a strong peristaltic bowel movement response, which is classified as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is recommended to adjust to a regular lifestyle, reduce the intake of greasy foods and dairy products, and manage emotional stress.[Read More] Sudden Severe Abdominal Pain: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Elevated Bilirubin and Cholesterol Levels: Next Steps for Diagnosis
Elevated levels of total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, and total cholesterol? Hello, doctor. I recently completed a health check-up, and the results that exceeded the normal range include total bilirubin at 2.88, direct bilirubin at 0.57, total cholesterol at 246, and urine showin...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Abnormal values (with normal ultrasound) are likely due to individual constitution and do not pose a long-term health risk; monitoring is sufficient. Cholesterol can be managed through diet and medication. Pain management can be addressed by consulting a pain specialist or a fami...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Bilirubin and Cholesterol Levels: Next Steps for Diagnosis
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Gas: Causes and When to Seek Help
Left lower abdominal gas? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about a recent issue I've been experiencing. For some time now, I've been feeling gas in my lower left abdomen, sometimes accompanied by sounds or bowel sounds. I can clearly feel gas passing through the intest...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Normal flatulence is expected; a negative stool test allows for monitoring of symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Gas: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Advice
Bowel habit issues? Hello, doctor. I was studying in Taipei for a while, and during that time, I would go to the bathroom about every 2-3 days, with bowel movements mostly normal, ranging from type 3 to type 5 on the Bristol Stool Chart. There was only one instance of occasional ...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, chew food thoroughly, take a walk after meals, and then observe.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Advice
Risk of Parasite Infection from Using Raw Meat Tongs on Cooked Meat
Using tongs that have been in contact with raw pork to handle cooked meat poses a risk of parasitic infection? Hello, doctor. Yesterday, I went to a barbecue restaurant with friends. I made sure to use separate tongs for raw and cooked meat, but my friend later didn't pay at...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The current risk remains low; however, such behavior is unsanitary and not recommended.[Read More] Risk of Parasite Infection from Using Raw Meat Tongs on Cooked Meat
Understanding Post-Medication Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Feeling bloated and experiencing belching after taking medication? Hello Doctor: About a week ago, I had lymphadenitis and received treatment with antibiotics. Before taking my last dose, I was eating chocolate and had swallowed a piece just before I needed to take my medication....
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If symptoms persist, you may visit a gastroenterology clinic and avoid hard or hot foods initially.[Read More] Understanding Post-Medication Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Morning Bowel Issues: Anxiety and Digestive Health
Bowel movement issues? For the past two months, due to work, I sometimes have to wake up very early for morning shifts. After having breakfast, about half an hour to an hour later, I always feel the urge to have a bowel movement. Most of the time, it is soft stools or diarrhea, a...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Food can stimulate normal peristaltic reflexes, and when combined with stress and anxiety, it can lead to increased frequency of bowel movements or diarrhea.[Read More] Understanding Morning Bowel Issues: Anxiety and Digestive Health
Needle Stick Injury: Should I Get HBIG After Exposure?
Needle-related issues? Hello, doctor. I am a healthcare professional. Recently, while handling sharp instruments, I accidentally sustained a needle stick injury. The source patient has no systemic diseases and is negative for Hepatitis B and C. My health check report from 2022 sh...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
In both theory and practice, there is no need to administer HBIG; monitoring is sufficient.[Read More] Needle Stick Injury: Should I Get HBIG After Exposure?
Concerns for Hepatitis B Carriers: Creatinine Levels and Diet
Concerns about creatinine levels and diet in hepatitis B carriers? Hello Doctor, I am a carrier of hepatitis B and currently taking the antiviral medication Hepatitis B Stable. I have regular follow-up appointments for check-ups. This time, my blood test report shows a creatinine...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. Consultation with a nephrologist may be necessary for evaluation and dosage adjustment. 2. Pain medications may have an impact; consider discontinuing or switching to acetaminophen. 3. A generally normal and balanced diet is sufficient.[Read More] Concerns for Hepatitis B Carriers: Creatinine Levels and Diet
Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Muscle Strain or Need for Medical Attention?
Left lower abdominal tenderness? Pain in the lower left abdomen when exerting pressure or straining has persisted for 3-4 days, but bowel movements and urination are currently normal. Could this be a muscle strain, or should I seek consultation in a specific medical specialty? Th...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If it is related to a specific posture or movement (such as lifting, turning, or bending), it may be a strain, which can typically be initially treated at a family medicine clinic.[Read More] Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Muscle Strain or Need for Medical Attention?
Understanding Anal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Anal issues Hello doctor, recently after a night’s sleep, I have been experiencing pain around my perineum when urinating. It’s not too bad when I have a bowel movement, but I don’t feel any lumps when I palpate the area. However, pressing on the tissue next to the anus does caus...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
You can try soaking in warm water; if the discomfort persists or worsens, seek medical attention.[Read More] Understanding Anal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Is Morning Flatulence Normal? Understanding Gut Health and Probiotics
Regarding passing gas upon waking up in the morning? I would like to ask if it is normal to feel gas moving in my intestines and to pass gas frequently every morning as soon as I wake up but before getting out of bed, especially since I started taking probiotics due to gastrointe...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Increased gas production and increased peristalsis can lead to flatulence; if there are no other discomforts, these variations are considered normal.[Read More] Is Morning Flatulence Normal? Understanding Gut Health and Probiotics
Can You Get Hepatitis B from Sharing a Straw with an Infected Person?
A wound comes into contact with the saliva of a hepatitis B patient? Hello, doctor. A few days ago, I accidentally bit my mouth and caused an ulcer. Today, I accidentally took a sip from a drink that a hepatitis B patient had used (with the same straw). Can my wound come into con...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The chances are slim, and since you were vaccinated against hepatitis B at birth, you should still have some immune memory to provide protection.[Read More] Can You Get Hepatitis B from Sharing a Straw with an Infected Person?
Effective Tips to Alleviate Indigestion Symptoms After Meals
Dyspepsia Hello, doctor. Sometimes after I eat, whether I'm lying down or sitting, I feel uncomfortable and need to sit up or stand to burp in order to release gas. It feels a bit like indigestion. I would like to know how to improve this and how to cope when it happens.
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is likely that you have swallowed some air. Please avoid talking while eating, and take a walk after meals, as it is beneficial for digestion.[Read More] Effective Tips to Alleviate Indigestion Symptoms After Meals
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor: Recently, I've been experiencing occasional bloating in my stomach, and sometimes when I eat, I also feel a sense of bloating along with some soreness in my back, but it goes away after a while. This sensation doesn't occur frequent...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is advisable to keep medications prepared in advance, pay attention to diet and daily routines, take medication when feeling unwell or when necessary, and record the reactions for future medical reference.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Struggling with Constipation: Causes and Solutions for Bowel Issues
Inability to pass stool, accompanied by only passing gas and frequent urination? After seeing the doctor and taking the medication he prescribed for three weeks, it feels as if I have completely lost my ability to have bowel movements (before starting the medication, I had relati...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Please return for a follow-up appointment with your physician to discuss the examination and medication, and to avoid potential side effects of the drugs.[Read More] Struggling with Constipation: Causes and Solutions for Bowel Issues
Understanding Bowel Movements and Gas: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
I have been experiencing intestinal peristalsis and issues with flatulence over the past few days? Hello, doctor. I previously asked some questions regarding gastroesophageal reflux, fresh blood on toilet paper after bowel movements, and abdominal tenderness upon palpation. Curre...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Fruits and vegetables/dietary fiber can promote peristalsis/bowel movements/gas expulsion, so please adjust the intake accordingly.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Movements and Gas: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Understanding IBS: Is Stress the Cause of Your Chronic Diarrhea?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Diagnosis Issues Hello Dr. Chen, I have been experiencing long-term constipation for six months, primarily characterized by diarrhea, mostly yellow in color. In May, due to gastrointestinal discomfort, I underwent a series of tests. The gastroscopy ...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If the abnormal intestinal motility is solely caused by diet or lifestyle, adjustments can be made. However, if symptoms persist after making these changes, it is advisable to seek medical attention for further management.[Read More] Understanding IBS: Is Stress the Cause of Your Chronic Diarrhea?