Understanding Fatty Liver and Hepatitis B: Risks and Vaccination Insights
Hepatitis B Hello Dr. Chen: After an ultrasound examination at the hospital, I was diagnosed with fatty liver, and a blood test revealed that I have a positive reaction for hepatitis B. Can I have both fatty liver and hepatitis B? If I receive the hepatitis B vaccine, will I no l...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, it is possible to have both fatty liver and hepatitis B simultaneously. If you are a carrier of hepatitis B (surface antigen positive), there is no need to receive the vaccine, as the vaccine is intended to protect individuals who have never been infected with the hepatiti...[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver and Hepatitis B: Risks and Vaccination Insights
Understanding Hepatitis B Mutations and Their Treatment Challenges
Hepatitis B virus mutation diseases Hello Doctor: In early February, I felt unwell and went to the hospital for liver function tests. There was no infection with hepatitis B or C. The results showed liver enzyme levels of GOT 66 and GPT 108, while other liver function tests and u...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, initially it was stated that there was no hepatitis B or C, but later it was mentioned that HBV-DNA is positive and it is a mutant strain of the virus. However, shouldn't the hepatitis B surface antigen be positive? I have not encountered such a situation perso...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Mutations and Their Treatment Challenges
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Abdominal pain Last year, I underwent an endoscopy which revealed mild gastritis. After taking medication, I didn't pay much attention to it. In March of this year, I developed acute gastritis and took medication, which seemed to help, so I didn't follow up. Since June,...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, it seems that your symptoms are less indicative of hepatitis and more related to gastrointestinal issues. Typically, hepatitis does not present with pain, but may include symptoms such as fatigue, malaise, nausea, and loss of appetite. In more severe cases, jaundice (yello...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results and Vaccination Options
Hepatitis B Hello, doctor: I recently underwent a health check at school, and the results showed that the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is negative and the Hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) is also negative. I would like to ask what this means. If I need to receive the v...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the negative results for both HBsAg and HBsAb may indicate three possible scenarios: 1. Completely uninfected, requiring vaccination. 2. Previously infected and developed HBsAb, but the antibody levels have decreased to undetectable levels due to a lack of exposure to hepa...[Read More] Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results and Vaccination Options
Do Liver Supplements Help with Fatty Liver Disease?
Are liver-protective medications effective for fatty liver disease? Hello, Dr. Chen. My husband has fatty liver disease, but due to work-related social obligations, he cannot avoid drinking. I would like to ask if liver supplements containing milk thistle have any liver repair or...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the extract from milk thistle, known as silymarin, is commonly prescribed in clinical settings for its mild hepatoprotective effects, which can reduce inflammation. However, this does not mean that one can continue to consume alcohol. It is important to maintain a balanced...[Read More] Do Liver Supplements Help with Fatty Liver Disease?
Understanding Recent Diarrhea: Causes and Dietary Impact
Recently, I have been experiencing occasional diarrhea? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about something: Recently, I have experienced 1-2 episodes of abnormal watery diarrhea over the past couple of days, which is completely liquid. Could this be related to my recent consum...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, there are many causes of diarrhea, such as infections, gastrointestinal disturbances, food poisoning, enteritis, lactose intolerance, malabsorption, certain foods, medications causing high osmolarity, or long-term irritable bowel syndrome. Since you have experienced watery...[Read More] Understanding Recent Diarrhea: Causes and Dietary Impact
Understanding Gastrointestinal Symptoms: When to Worry About Your Health
My liver, gallbladder, and gastrointestinal system? Doctor, may I ask why sometimes my stool appears to have dark streaks? Sometimes I experience pain in my anus when I have a bowel movement but can't fully pass stool. Other times, I have diarrhea and experience anal pain, g...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, your father has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, which places you at high risk for colorectal cancer as well. If you are experiencing irregular bowel movements, it is advisable to visit a gastroenterology clinic for a colon and rectal examination. Both colonoscopy an...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Symptoms: When to Worry About Your Health
Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Essential Tests and Follow-Up Care
Hepatitis B carriers, examination? Hello Dr. Chen, I was previously a carrier of hepatitis B and I heard that it cannot be cured for a lifetime. About 4 to 5 years ago, I had a blood test for hepatitis B, and the doctor at that time informed me that my AST and ALT levels were no...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. Hepatitis B may pose a risk for liver cancer, and there is a possibility of occurrence even when liver function is normal. Therefore, it is recommended to have regular follow-up examinations every six months for early detection and treatment. 2. Regular check...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Essential Tests and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Right Flank and Upper Abdomen Discomfort: Possible Causes
Discomfort in the right lower back and right upper abdomen? Hello, doctor. About two months ago, I started experiencing a burning sensation combined with mild aching in my lower right back. The symptoms have been intermittent. Initially, I thought it was a sports injury, but over...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, you can arrange for an abdominal ultrasound (including liver, gallbladder, and kidneys) at the internal medicine or family medicine department, along with a urinalysis and X-ray examination. Thank you, Dr. Chen Zhi-Ping.[Read More] Understanding Right Flank and Upper Abdomen Discomfort: Possible Causes
Understanding Chronic Constipation: Causes and Solutions for Your Health
Constipation Hello, doctor… I would like to ask about my father, who is in his fifties. He has a regular exercise routine, maintains a normal lifestyle, and consumes adequate water and a high-fiber diet, yet he still struggles with bowel movements. He often experiences gas, which...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, constipation is indeed a troubling issue. If the constipation has occurred recently or has worsened, one should suspect the possibility of colorectal or rectal tumors. However, if it has been a long-standing issue, it is more likely to be functional. It is advisable to vis...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Constipation: Causes and Solutions for Your Health
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help
Hemorrhoidal bleeding Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I noticed blood in my stool during a bowel movement, and it was quite a lot. I tried to avoid straining during the next two or three times, but it still occurred. What's even more concerning is that it was almost like it wa...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I would like to inquire about your bowel movements. Are they normal, or do you experience constipation with hard stools? Is the blood you notice completely fresh and coating the normal stool, or is it mixed in? Most cases of rectal bleeding are due to hemorrhoids near the ...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Hepatitis B: Antibodies, Treatment, and Risks Explained
Could you please provide more details about the liver issue? Hello, Doctor. 1. I tested positive for hepatitis B surface antigen. If I have hepatitis B surface antibodies, does that mean I won't be infected with hepatitis B again? However, my previous hepatitis B antibody ...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. A positive Hepatitis B surface antibody indicates immunity, meaning you will not be reinfected with the Hepatitis B virus. Since your Hepatitis B antibody (surface antibody?) is negative, there is a possibility of Hepatitis B infection. Even if Hepatitis B is t...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Antibodies, Treatment, and Risks Explained
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Abdominal pain I would like to inquire about abdominal pain. I have pain below the navel and have already seen a doctor, but the physician could not determine the cause. I would like to ask what this issue might be. I have undergone renal imaging, but still, no problems were iden...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, pain below the navel in females is often related to gastrointestinal or gynecological issues (in the pelvic region). It is recommended to first visit a gynecology clinic to rule out any gynecological problems, and then consult a gastroenterologist for gastrointestinal eval...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: What Does It Mean for Your Health?
Liver function Hello Dr. Chen, I had a health check-up this year. The results showed S.G.O.P (AST) at 28 IU/L and S.G.P.T (ALT) at 42 IU/L. Is the slightly elevated SGPT indicative of liver function abnormalities? Please clarify. Thank you.
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the normal values for GOT and GPT are derived from screening many "healthy adults," which means that most healthy individuals fall within this range. However, there are occasional cases where individuals may be normal but slightly exceed this normal range. If the...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: What Does It Mean for Your Health?
Can I Get Hepatitis C from Contact with Infected Blood?
Will this lead to a hepatitis C infection? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask you about hepatitis C. Two weeks ago, my mother-in-law was hospitalized, and during an injection, there was a mishap with blood leakage, causing my entire middle finger to be immersed in her blood, in...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if you have a wound on your hand, there is a risk of infection. The incubation period is approximately 1.5 to 4.5 months. When the disease manifests, it may be very mild with no symptoms, or it could be more severe with symptoms such as nausea and malaise, or even a more s...[Read More] Can I Get Hepatitis C from Contact with Infected Blood?
Is Frequent Bloating Related to Liver Issues or Gastrointestinal Problems?
Is it related to the liver? Hello Dr. Chen: I often experience belching, especially in the morning after waking up, after meals, when changing positions from sitting to standing, and when switching from lying on my right side to my left side. I frequently have belching. Is this r...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, bloating is often caused by gastrointestinal indigestion or abnormal peristalsis. Patients with hepatitis or cirrhosis may also experience loss of appetite and indigestion. However, it is essential to undergo some physical examinations, along with blood tests, ultrasound, ...[Read More] Is Frequent Bloating Related to Liver Issues or Gastrointestinal Problems?
Feeling Nauseous After Eating: Is Overeating or MSG to Blame?
Feeling nauseous after overeating? Doctor, I often experience a salty taste in my mouth shortly after eating, followed by a feeling of nausea. Is this related to overeating, or could it be due to consuming too much MSG? The latter is my own speculation, as this situation frequent...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, experiencing nausea after meals may indicate gastrointestinal issues or simply indigestion. It is advisable to pay attention to your diet, eat smaller meals more frequently, and avoid irritating foods. Additionally, consuming too much monosodium glutamate (MSG) may lead to...[Read More] Feeling Nauseous After Eating: Is Overeating or MSG to Blame?
Understanding Liver Health: Red Palms and Pregnancy Concerns
Liver issues? I have a few questions: 1. I heard that if there are red spots on the palms, it indicates liver problems. Is this true? 2. I am currently three months pregnant and have developed red spots, which makes me very worried. If there is indeed a problem, should I go to an...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, patients with liver cirrhosis often exhibit a condition known as palmar erythema, characterized by redness around the palms. However, not everyone with red palms has liver cirrhosis; some may have familial or other causes. Given that your father passed away from liver canc...[Read More] Understanding Liver Health: Red Palms and Pregnancy Concerns
Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: Dietary Tips and Gastrointestinal Concerns
Hepatic hemangioma Question 1: What should patients with hepatic hemangiomas pay attention to? Are there any dietary recommendations for improvement? Question 2: If someone experiences continuous stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, to the point where even walking causes stomac...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. Hepatic hemangiomas are benign tumors, but they are generally not biopsied or surgically removed to confirm their benign nature. Therefore, physicians usually recommend regular monitoring and will decide on further management based on any changes observed. Ther...[Read More] Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: Dietary Tips and Gastrointestinal Concerns
Signs of Serious Liver Issues: Dark Spots, Poor Appetite, and Swallowing Difficulties
Large black spots all over the body, poor appetite, and difficulty swallowing..? I have been drinking alcohol and consuming betel nut for a long time, and due to driving for work at night, I recently found that I can't sleep without drinking. I have developed large dark spot...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, you have developed a large dark spot on your skin. I recommend that you visit a dermatologist for an examination to rule out any serious skin conditions, such as melanoma. Regarding your other symptoms, including poor appetite, difficulty swallowing, and weight loss, pleas...[Read More] Signs of Serious Liver Issues: Dark Spots, Poor Appetite, and Swallowing Difficulties