Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Risks, Size Guidelines, and Dietary Impact
Gallbladder polyp During a liver ultrasound examination at the hospital, a 0.4 cm polyp was unexpectedly found in the gallbladder. What issues could this cause? At what size should it be removed? What are the possible causes? Can dietary changes help it disappear? Additionally, m...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, regarding gallbladder polyps, the exact reason why they develop is currently unexplained, but some individuals do form them. Generally, polyps smaller than 1 centimeter are considered benign. Regular abdominal ultrasounds (approximately every six months to a year) are reco...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Risks, Size Guidelines, and Dietary Impact
Understanding Post-Meal Discomfort: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help
Gastrointestinal discomfort after eating..? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing some gastrointestinal issues. After meals, regardless of the amount I eat, I often feel a sensation of food getting stuck in my throat, along with nausea and the urge to vomit, but I am u...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, you may be experiencing symptoms of dyspepsia or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is advisable to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist for an evaluation to determine if you need an endoscopy or gastrointestinal imaging. Alternatively, you might consi...[Read More] Understanding Post-Meal Discomfort: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help
Understanding Alcoholic Hepatitis: What Elevated Liver Enzymes Mean
Alcoholic hepatitis Hello, Doctor: My father (51 years old) had a health check-up at a small clinic, and in the liver function tests, his GOT was 40 U/L and his alcohol-related liver enzyme (presumably referring to GGT) was 149 U/L. What does this mean?
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, your GOT level is 40 U/L (normal range is approximately 35-40), which is close to normal. The "alcoholic hepatitis" level is 149 U/L; I am unsure what this refers to. Is it "GPT" 149 U/L or "ALP" 149 U/L? If it is the former (GPT), this is one...[Read More] Understanding Alcoholic Hepatitis: What Elevated Liver Enzymes Mean
Understanding Abdominal Cysts: Concerns for Elderly Patients with Comorbidities
Abdominal cyst? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask for your advice regarding my mother, who is 75 years old. She has suffered a stroke on her right side and has diabetes, hypertension, and kidney disease, which have severely affected her health. Two years ago, she underwent surg...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, after surgery, weakness of the abdominal wall muscles may lead to local hernia formation. Some individuals may experience a unilateral protrusion in the abdominal area similar to your mother's condition. It is essential to rule out any internal growths, and both abdom...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Cysts: Concerns for Elderly Patients with Comorbidities
Understanding Hepatitis B Test Results: Is My Partner Infected?
Is there still hepatitis B present? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask you about my boyfriend, who is 32 years old and has a habit of smoking and drinking alcohol. During his health check-up, his HBsAg was negative, HBsAb was positive, and HBcAb was positive. What do these test ...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, these hepatitis indicators show that your boyfriend has had a past infection with hepatitis B, but he has recovered and developed surface antibodies (HBsAb), which means he has immunity and is not contagious to others. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Zhi-Ping, Internal Medicine.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Test Results: Is My Partner Infected?
Understanding Unusual Left Lower Abdominal Sensations: Causes and Concerns
There is a strange sensation in the lower left abdomen? I saw many symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome on the website that seem to match almost perfectly. However, I also have a strange feeling in my lower left abdomen, like a bloating sensation, and when lying down, it feels so...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the percussion of the abdomen shows a solid mass, which indicates that it is filled with something. It could be a tumor, or it might just be the intestines filled with contents. However, tumors are usually associated with specific symptoms such as abdominal pain, abnormal ...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Left Lower Abdominal Sensations: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: Causes and Solutions
Elevated serum transaminases!! I previously had a blood test and found that my serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level had risen to 116, which is far above the normal range. This has caused me considerable concern, and I would like to ask you what I should do now. How did this...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, an elevated ALT indicates the presence of liver inflammation. It is important to first investigate any specific causes, such as infections from hepatitis B, C, or even A, as well as alcohol consumption or certain medications that can also raise liver enzyme levels. Obesity...[Read More] Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: Causes and Solutions
Effectiveness of Lamivudine and Interferon for Treating Hepatitis B Patients
Do medications like lamivudine and interferon have therapeutic effects for patients with hepatitis B? I would like to ask whether medications like lamivudine and interferon are effective for patients with hepatitis B. I saw online that lamivudine was originally used to treat HIV,...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, these two medications are currently used for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B. For patients with long-term abnormal liver function tests, Lanivudine (also known as Lamivudine) can be administered orally, or interferon can be given via injection, depending on the situat...[Read More] Effectiveness of Lamivudine and Interferon for Treating Hepatitis B Patients
Can I Continue Working with Chronic Hepatitis B and Sleep Issues?
Can I continue working? Hello, doctor. I am 25 years old and have hepatitis B. I also frequently experience severe insomnia. My GPT levels have been above the normal range for 7.8 years, consistently in the range of one to two hundred. Last month, my GPT reached over 500. I am cu...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, your current condition is an acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis B. If you have already started taking Tenofovir, it must be used long-term and should not be discontinued arbitrarily. Additionally, regular blood tests and ultrasound examinations are necessary. I...[Read More] Can I Continue Working with Chronic Hepatitis B and Sleep Issues?
Understanding Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Abdominal headache? Hello, doctor. For the past two or three days, I have been experiencing pain in my right abdomen along the ribcage, closer to the center of my body. The pain is accompanied by a feeling of nausea, although I haven't vomited. It tends to occur around two o...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the pain you are experiencing may be related to issues with the stomach, duodenum, gallbladder, or bile ducts. Pain occurring at night is often associated with duodenal ulcers, but it usually improves after eating something or taking antacids. If you experience pain after ...[Read More] Understanding Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Positive Hepatitis B Antigen and Antibody Results
Inquiry about Hepatitis B? Hello, I would like to ask about my health check report, which shows positive reactions for both antigens and antibodies. What does this mean? I don't understand. Could you please help me clarify? Thank you.
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, could you please specify which antigen and antibody you are referring to? Generally, antigens and antibodies do not coexist; if they are present simultaneously, it may indicate that the antigen is about to disappear while the antibody is being produced. Another poss...[Read More] Understanding Positive Hepatitis B Antigen and Antibody Results
Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Is It Liver or Gastrointestinal Issues?
Could you please specify the gastrointestinal issues you are inquiring about? I have recently been feeling a sense of heaviness in my abdomen, especially after meals, which is quite pronounced (although it's not pain, it feels uncomfortable). I often hear gurgling sounds fro...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. These symptoms are likely related to gastrointestinal issues, resembling indigestion or irritable bowel syndrome. It is advisable to relax, avoid excessive stress, and steer clear of tobacco, alcohol, and spicy foods. If discomfort persists, a medical evaluation is re...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Is It Liver or Gastrointestinal Issues?
Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Constipation, Hemorrhoids, and More
Gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms? Hello Dr. Chen, I am 22 years old and have been experiencing habitual constipation since I was 17.8 years old. I often go 3 to 4 days, or even a week, without feeling the urge to have a bowel movement. I have previously tried sitting on the ...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, regarding your difficulty with bowel movements, it is advisable to increase your intake of fiber-rich foods, drink plenty of water, and make lifestyle adjustments to reduce stress and busyness. The small protrusions near the anal area could be polyps, but they may also be ...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Constipation, Hemorrhoids, and More
Understanding Normal Cells That Look Different from Surrounding Cells in Liver Health
What are "normal cells that look different from their surroundings"? Thank you, Dr. Chen, for your detailed explanation last time, which helped me understand better. However, I have some questions and would like to ask for your clarification. Thank you! Regarding fatty...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. I believe that the physician thinks it is normal; the localized appearance may differ due to the presence of a non-fatty area. You should discuss this with him, as I cannot draw any conclusions without seeing the images. 2. Each examination has its limitation...[Read More] Understanding Normal Cells That Look Different from Surrounding Cells in Liver Health
Understanding Hepatitis B: Causes, Risks, and What You Need to Know
Hepatitis B? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask what hepatitis B is. I had a health check-up when I started school this year, and the report indicated that I have hepatitis B. I heard my brother mention that he was also diagnosed with hepatitis B during his military health examin...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Hepatitis B is an inflammation of the liver caused by the Hepatitis B virus infection in the human body. Some individuals may experience recurrent liver inflammation, while others may have the virus remain dormant in their bodies, becoming healthy carriers. The transmissio...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Causes, Risks, and What You Need to Know
Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination: Do Antibodies Indicate Infection Risk?
Regarding questions about the hepatitis B vaccine..? Hello, doctor: I am the one who mentioned that I received two doses of the hepatitis B vaccine but still did not develop antibodies. I have heard that if antibodies are not produced, it might indicate that one will not be infec...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I apologize, but I have not heard of such a statement. The hepatitis B vaccine is composed of surface antigens injected into the body to elicit an immune response and does not cause infection itself. It is unclear whether the surface antigens are insufficiently immunogenic...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination: Do Antibodies Indicate Infection Risk?
Why Am I Experiencing Excessive Gas and Bloating?
Why do I keep passing gas excessively? I have been experiencing some issues lately, specifically excessive flatulence (which I have not experienced before). On lighter days, I pass gas every half hour, and on more severe days, I can pass several within just five minutes. This sit...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, flatulence is produced when food (especially components that are not digestible by the human body, such as fiber) is broken down and fermented by intestinal bacteria in the gut. Another part may come from air swallowed during eating, which can occur if one eats too quickly...[Read More] Why Am I Experiencing Excessive Gas and Bloating?
Why Am I Not Developing Antibodies After Hepatitis B Vaccination?
What is the hepatitis B vaccine? Dear Doctor: I would like to inquire about the hepatitis B vaccine. A few years ago, I was tested and found to have no antibodies for hepatitis B, so I started receiving the vaccine at the hospital. I received a total of six doses, as the vaccinat...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, first please add the HBc IgG test to check if it is negative. If it remains negative, it indicates that you have truly never been infected with this virus. Indeed, some individuals do not respond to the vaccine. If you have completed two full doses of the vaccine and still...[Read More] Why Am I Not Developing Antibodies After Hepatitis B Vaccination?
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Gas: Gastrointestinal Issues Explained
Abdominal pain Hello, recently I've been experiencing abdominal pain and frequently passing gas. Could this be a gastrointestinal issue?
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, is the area of pain in the upper abdomen? Is there any bloating? It could be a symptom of indigestion, but if the discomfort persists, it is advisable to undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to rule out the diagnosis of peptic ulcer. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Zhiping, Int...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Gas: Gastrointestinal Issues Explained
Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination: Why Three Shots and Key Questions Answered
Why is the hepatitis B vaccine administered in three doses, and why is the first dose given as an intramuscular injection rather than intravenously? As indicated by the topic, I would like to further inquire about the functions of the three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine, and w...
Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. Any vaccine may elicit some antibodies after the first dose, but the response is often insufficient. It is necessary to administer one to two additional doses to enhance the immune cell response. For the hepatitis B vaccine, it is recommended to administer the ...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination: Why Three Shots and Key Questions Answered