Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Dietary Tips
Gastric ulcer Gastric ulcers are caused by an imbalance between the protective factors of the stomach lining and the aggressive factors that can damage it. Common causes include infection with Helicobacter pylori, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ex...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the development of gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers can be attributed to various factors, including excessive gastric acid secretion, Helicobacter pylori infection, medications, significant illnesses or injuries, burns, and emotional stress, all of which may contribute t...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Dietary Tips
Understanding Colonic Perforation: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options
There is a perforation in the colon? My mother has been hospitalized for 5 days due to a perforated colon. Her condition remains unstable, with frequent fevers and severe pain. The doctors have instructed her to receive intravenous antibiotics, and if that does not work, surgery ...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, in the case of a colonic perforation, if it is just a small hole, fasting and intravenous antibiotics may allow the intestine to heal naturally. However, if there is a larger perforation or if it leads to peritonitis, surgical intervention will be necessary to repair it or...[Read More] Understanding Colonic Perforation: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options
Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Causes, Risks, and Concerns for Children
Understanding gastric ulcers? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask you a few questions: Is the occurrence of a gastric ulcer considered a chronic disease? (Is there a hole in the stomach?) Can it develop within a month? Are children with Down syndrome more prone to developing it...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, ulcers are an acute condition. In adults, although medication can lead to healing (unlike diabetes or hypertension, which cannot be cured with medication), they are prone to recurrence. Therefore, while they are not classified as chronic diseases, many patients must underg...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Causes, Risks, and Concerns for Children
Long-Term Use of Stomach Medications: Risks and Dietary Tips
Regarding medication usage issues? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing stomach pain for about three years. During this time, I have been taking medication for peptic ulcers (for about two years): Zantac 150mg (taking two pills a day when there is slight pain—morning and evenin...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I would like to know if you have undergone an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and if you have been diagnosed with peptic ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Generally, ulcers do not persist for such a long time; however, severe esophagitis caused by acid ref...[Read More] Long-Term Use of Stomach Medications: Risks and Dietary Tips
Understanding IBS: Managing Alternating Constipation and Diarrhea
I'm feeling really frustrated... what should I do? Hello, doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing frequent alternation between constipation and diarrhea. Typically, I am constipated for 1 to 3 days, followed by a day of diarrhea where I have 2 to 3 bowel movements, often ...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the frequency and number of bowel movements vary from person to person. Generally, it is considered normal to have bowel movements between three times a week to three times a day, but it ultimately depends on the individual's condition. Symptoms such as abdominal pain...[Read More] Understanding IBS: Managing Alternating Constipation and Diarrhea
Can Painkillers Trigger Stomach Ulcer Recurrence? Alternatives Explored
Gastric ulcer Can pain relievers cause a recurrence of gastric ulcers? If so, are there alternative medications that can replace pain relievers? Thank you for your response.
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, not all medications cause such effects. For example, acetaminophen does not, and some newer anti-inflammatory pain relievers (COX-2 inhibitors) like Celebrex are less likely to cause gastrointestinal or kidney damage. Additionally, the nature of the pain must be considered...[Read More] Can Painkillers Trigger Stomach Ulcer Recurrence? Alternatives Explored
Understanding Flatulence and Constipation: Causes and Solutions
Flatulence I have a habit of constipation, and I sometimes pass gas when I go to the bathroom. Is this related to straining? Also, sometimes when I get up at night to study, my stomach feels bloated. What could be the reason for this?
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, flatulence is caused by air ingested through the mouth or gas produced by the breakdown of undigested food by bacteria in the colon, which is then expelled through the anus. I recommend increasing your intake of fiber-rich foods, drinking plenty of water, establishing a re...[Read More] Understanding Flatulence and Constipation: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Hepatitis B: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management for Teens
Liver function test inquiry I would like to ask the doctor, I am 17 years old and two years ago I had a physical examination when I started school. I found out that I have hepatitis B, but I have consulted both Western and traditional Chinese medicine practitioners for treatment....
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) remains positive for more than 6 months, it indicates a chronic carrier status. If liver enzyme levels (AST, ALT) are elevated, it suggests chronic hepatitis. There are various medications available in both Western and Traditional...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management for Teens
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Gastrointestinal issues..? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask about the swelling under my left rib cage that has been present for quite some time. I have seen a doctor in the past, but they said that one side of the ribs is naturally more swollen and dismissed my concerns. Is tha...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the area below the left rib may involve parts of the stomach and intestines. If you are experiencing persistent discomfort along with gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for an evaluation of your gastrointestinal trac...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding the Connection Between Duodenal Ulcers and Back Pain
Duodenum and Back Pain Hello, Doctor. 1. About three months ago, I started experiencing some pain below my left scapula (lower back), which was followed by bloating, frequent burping, and a loss of appetite. At that time, I felt pain in both sides of my lower back, and it seeme...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the pain in your lower left back is not related to duodenal ulcers; I have never heard of referred pain from ulcers reaching that area. However, regarding the pancreas, I wonder if you have had an abdominal ultrasound, as lesions in the tail of the pancreas may cause pain ...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Duodenal Ulcers and Back Pain
Preventing Liver Cirrhosis: Essential Tips for Hepatitis B Carriers
Hepatitis B I am a carrier of hepatitis B. I currently work the night shift at a convenience store, and I try to make up for sleep during the day. I do not smoke or drink alcohol. What should I do to prevent liver cirrhosis? What are the regular check-up items I should undergo?
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, in addition to sufficient sleep and rest, maintaining a balanced diet, consuming fresh foods, avoiding alcohol, and refraining from taking medications indiscriminately are important measures for liver protection. If liver function tests (GOT, GPT) are normal, it indicates ...[Read More] Preventing Liver Cirrhosis: Essential Tips for Hepatitis B Carriers
Understanding Excess Stomach Acid: Causes and Treatment Options
Excess stomach acid (Gastroesophageal reflux disease?) Dr. Chen: Hello, I have been experiencing excessive gastric acid and heartburn after meals since mid-August 2004. Currently, I am taking (1) Domperidone, (2) Famotidine, and (3) MGO (all before each meal), but I have not been...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Response: Hello, 1. I have not heard that these two medications affect the contraction of the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to gastroesophageal reflux. 2. There is indeed a difference; gastric acid secretion increases after meals, and it also tends to increase during sle...[Read More] Understanding Excess Stomach Acid: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Abdominal issues? Hello Dr. Chen: Recently, I have been experiencing a sharp and burning sensation about two finger widths below the last rib on the left side of my abdomen (approximately 10-13 cm above and 30-40 degrees to the left of my navel). I went to the hospital for an X-r...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, this area may be related to the stomach or intestines. If the abdominal X-ray does not reveal any obvious issues, it may be necessary to check for problems with the stomach or intestines. You can schedule an examination with a gastroenterology outpatient clinic. Sincerely,...[Read More] Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Liver MRI Interpretations: Key Questions for Your Doctor
How can I inquire about the interpretation of a liver MRI? Dear Dr. Chen, Thank you for your previous candid and detailed responses to my questions on November 16 regarding "liver tumors" and December 29 about "cells that look different from the surrounding ones.&...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if you wish to have your case reviewed by a more experienced specialist, I recommend visiting the hepatobiliary department at a medical center, such as Professor Yang Pei-Ming or Professor Huang Kuan-Tang at National Taiwan University, or Professor Wu Chao-Ching at Taipei ...[Read More] Understanding Liver MRI Interpretations: Key Questions for Your Doctor
Dealing with Excessive Gas: Causes and Solutions for Your Discomfort
A significant concern - what should I do? Hello, Doctor: I have been experiencing a significant issue lately, which is that I can't understand why I keep passing gas excessively. This situation has persisted for three months. I previously sought medical attention, but the do...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the symptoms of abdominal bloating, gas, and excessive flatulence are generally caused by swallowing too much air (such as chewing gum, talking while eating, or eating too quickly). It may also result from the ingestion of substances that the body cannot digest and absorb,...[Read More] Dealing with Excessive Gas: Causes and Solutions for Your Discomfort
Finding Crohn's Disease Specialists in Taoyuan County, Taiwan
Regarding "Crohn's disease," please forward to the Director's mailbox? Dear Sir, I am a Taiwanese who is married to an American man living in Taiwan. He has a unique condition known as Crohn's disease. Could you please kindly inform me where I can find a...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Mrs. Smith, "Crohn's disease" is a type of autoimmune disorder that requires long-term medical follow-up. Patients often face a lifetime of recurrent disease flare-ups and remissions. The disease is rare in Eastern countries, with an incidence of less than 5 ...[Read More] Finding Crohn's Disease Specialists in Taoyuan County, Taiwan
Understanding Hypoglycemia: Symptoms, Causes, and Necessary Tests
Hypoglycemia Hello Dr. Chen: I have chronic hepatitis type B, kidney stones, a history of gallstones, and symptoms of hypoglycemia (tremors, palpitations, night sweats, dizziness, and weakness in the limbs) that have been intermittent for several years. However, the episodes have...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I would like to know if you have checked your blood sugar levels during your symptoms to confirm if they were indeed low? Have you ever undergone gastric surgery? Do your symptoms occur after fasting for a long time or after eating? Do your symptoms improve after consuming...[Read More] Understanding Hypoglycemia: Symptoms, Causes, and Necessary Tests
Bleeding After Wiping: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
Bleeding after wiping? Doctor, I often notice blood when I wipe my anus after a bowel movement. Is this normal? I have bowel movements about twice a day, and sometimes after I finish, a small piece of tissue protrudes from the anus but goes back in after a while. Is this hemorrho...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, these may be symptoms of internal hemorrhoids. If the symptoms persist, it is recommended that you visit a colorectal surgery clinic for evaluation and arrange for a sigmoidoscopy. If necessary, hemorrhoid ligation or surgical treatment may be required. Sincerely, Dr. Chen...[Read More] Bleeding After Wiping: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
Dealing with Incomplete Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Residual stool Most of my bowel movements are soft and I feel like I can't completely empty my bowels. After wiping, how often do I notice residual stool around the anus? I often wipe until I see blood. While I can wash my anus with water, it doesn't solve the issue of ...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I would like to know if you have undergone any examinations regarding your anal area, such as checking for fistulas or excessive relaxation of the anal sphincter. If you have not been examined yet, I recommend visiting a colorectal surgery clinic for an evaluation. If the ...[Read More] Dealing with Incomplete Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Rectal bleeding Dear Doctor, Hello. My sister has recently noticed blood in her stool when she goes to the bathroom. She mentioned that it resembles menstrual bleeding, and at first, she thought it was an early period. However, she later realized that it was blood from her bowe...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, experiencing fresh blood during bowel movements, which appears to be from the anus or rectum, without abdominal pain, and considering your young age, is less likely to be indicative of intestinal tumors or inflammatory bowel disease. The most probable cause is hemorrhoidal...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and Concerns for Your Health