Understanding Strong Urine Odor: Causes and Concerns
Strong urine odor? My urine has a very strong odor, with an indescribable unusual scent, somewhat resembling a hint of fishiness. However, I have not experienced this before; it has only been occurring for the past year or so. My lifestyle and dietary habits have not changed, eve...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello FIFI: Urine naturally has a scent, but if there is an "abnormal" odor related to food, medications, or endocrine issues, please visit a nephrology clinic for a urinalysis.[Read More] Understanding Strong Urine Odor: Causes and Concerns
Understanding the Causes and Symptoms of Ulcers and Ulcerative Colitis
The pathogenic causes of ulcerative ulcers and general ulcers? Hello doctor, in my previous statement, I mentioned that I was hospitalized for bleeding and underwent a colonoscopy. During the procedure performed by Dr. 802, I saw that my intestines had white, necrotic areas and a...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, An: Ulcerative colitis is caused by certain genes and environmental factors. It can be differentiated from other types of ulcers through endoscopy, making endoscopic examination essential.[Read More] Understanding the Causes and Symptoms of Ulcers and Ulcerative Colitis
Understanding Ulcer Conditions: Do They Qualify for Military Exemption?
Ulcer verification? I would like to inquire about my situation. On December 24th of last year, I was hospitalized due to rectal bleeding and underwent examinations at Kaohsiung 802. The results indicated mild gastritis, hemorrhoids, and ulcers in the rectum and sigmoid colon. I n...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, An: Colon ulcers and hemorrhoids are among the causes of lower gastrointestinal bleeding. However, ulcerative colitis must be considered to qualify as a serious condition, so please visit a colorectal surgeon for further diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Ulcer Conditions: Do They Qualify for Military Exemption?
Understanding Your Child's Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Abdominal pain Hello Doctor: My child has been complaining of stomach pain for the past few days. Sometimes the pain is quite severe, but most of the time it's just mild. The bowel movements are soft, but not watery enough to be considered diarrhea; sometimes they occur up t...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Based on your description, the child seems to be experiencing a viral infection combined with acute gastroenteritis. If there is a decrease in activity level and signs of dehydration, it is advisable to visit a major hospital for evaluation, as the symptoms currently do no...[Read More] Understanding Your Child's Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Innovative IGY Immunoglobulin Treatment for Helicobacter Pylori Infection
Treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection with IGY immunoglobulin yolk? Hello, Doctor. My father is currently 45 years old and works as a taxi driver. He suffers from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In July of last year, he underwent an examination and was found to have ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Sophia: The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori in Taiwan is increasing, and it has been found to be associated with atrophic gastritis and early gastric lymphoma. The current standard treatment regimen involves a triple therapy or quadruple therapy for one to two weeks, foll...[Read More] Innovative IGY Immunoglobulin Treatment for Helicobacter Pylori Infection
Dealing with Persistent Dry Mouth and Bad Breath: What to Do?
Bad breath and frequent dry mouth? I have been feeling constantly thirsty and after drinking water, I feel thirsty again shortly after. I also have bad breath, which returns shortly after brushing my teeth. I have to chew gum during class. What should I do? Which specialist shoul...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Taro, the patient is seeking consultation due to thirst, which is commonly associated with diabetes, xerostomia, periodontal disease, or medications. Halitosis is most often related to periodontal disease or gastrointestinal abnormalities. Therefore, I recommend seeing a de...[Read More] Dealing with Persistent Dry Mouth and Bad Breath: What to Do?
Understanding Sticky Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Digestive Health
The viscosity of stool? Hello, Director Hong. I would like to ask about my bowel movements. Last time during my ovulation period, I noticed that my stool was somewhat sticky (similar to the consistency of ovulation discharge, slightly elongated, but not as exaggerated). I initial...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Little Annoying Girl: The gastrointestinal tract typically secretes "digestive juices" to aid in the digestion and absorption of food, but what is expelled through the rectum should not be visible to the naked eye. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a gastro...[Read More] Understanding Sticky Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Digestive Health
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Remedies
Gastrointestinal issues Doctor: I have been experiencing excessive gas, often leading to flatulence, and my stomach frequently makes gurgling sounds. I also have bad breath. For the past two years, my stomach has felt very bloated, and I often experience pain that feels like bein...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
The condition described is consistent with "functional bowel disorder." Bloating can be exacerbated by consuming gas-producing foods such as milk, soy milk, bread, and steamed buns. Additionally, increasing water intake and consuming high-fiber foods can improve bowel m...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Remedies
Understanding Gastrointestinal Distress: A Student's Struggle with Bloating and Discomfort
I feel like my stomach is about to explode..? Hello, Doctor! I am a college student suffering from gastrointestinal issues. Ever since I ate contaminated noodles during my senior year of high school last year, I have experienced significant changes in my digestive system. I often...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Based on your description, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is defined by the presence of recurrent diarrhea or constipation, with symptoms improving after bowel movements, but without weight loss, blood in the stool, or fever. Dr. Chang Fu-Yang, the head of the Gastroenterology De...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Distress: A Student's Struggle with Bloating and Discomfort
Does Hepatitis Vaccine Cause Significant Increase in GOT Levels?
Does receiving the hepatitis vaccine cause a significant increase in GOT levels? Dear Dr. Hong, I received my second dose of the hepatitis vaccine in March of this year, and this month my GOT level increased dramatically from 18 in January to 160. Does receiving the hepatitis vac...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Ms. Angelica: It is uncommon to develop hepatitis after vaccination; however, if there is a concurrent infection with hepatitis C, A, or B, or if it is caused by other factors such as medication or excessive fatigue, please visit the outpatient clinic for further examinatio...[Read More] Does Hepatitis Vaccine Cause Significant Increase in GOT Levels?
Common Internal Medicine Questions: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Please ask your question, doctor? 1. Is "解細便" in Taiwanese Hokkien referring to diarrhea? 2. What are the symptoms of a gastric ulcer? 3. Recently, due to work stress and busyness, I've been experiencing sharp pain near the left side of my navel. What organ is ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Kevin: 1. The patient's term "烙賽" likely refers to "diarrhea." 2. Gastric ulcer: Symptoms include discomfort in the stomach, upper abdominal pain, hunger pangs, and a feeling of fullness; severe cases may present with gastrointestinal bleeding. 3. T...[Read More] Common Internal Medicine Questions: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Understanding Green Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention
Stool color Dr. Hong: I would like to ask, I usually experience bloating but never seek medical attention. However, a few days ago, I had green stools, but my stool color has returned to normal since then. I have been experiencing frequent abdominal pain. I researched online and ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Ms. Dodo: Bloating and abnormal stool color may be related to gastrointestinal dysfunction (which may include liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic function). It is recommended to reduce the intake of gas-producing and fermentable foods (such as dairy and legumes) and to incre...[Read More] Understanding Green Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention
Managing Persistent Heartburn and Sleep Issues in Elderly Patients
Heartburn Hello Dr. Hong: My mother is 68 years old. After catching a cold and having a fever last October, her blood pressure has been consistently low, and she has been experiencing significant discomfort and bloating in her stomach. We visited Taipei's Peace Hospital for ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Minmin: The burning sensation in the abdomen may be related to abnormal gastrointestinal motility, which can cause nausea, regurgitation, gastroesophageal reflux, and loss of appetite. Therefore, prokinetic agents can be used to improve the condition in conjunction with ant...[Read More] Managing Persistent Heartburn and Sleep Issues in Elderly Patients
Understanding Rectal Pain: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Regarding yesterday's question? Hello, doctor. Regarding the issue of sharp pain near the anus that I mentioned last night, I would like to add that I experience this sensation about three to four days a week. Each episode lasts around seven to eight seconds and is not very ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Taipei resident: There are many nerve distributions around the anus, and inflammation or infection could lead to hemorrhoids. Please consult a colorectal surgeon. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Rectal Pain: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Is Allergy Desensitization Treatment Available in Internal Medicine?
Are you undergoing desensitization therapy? Hello, doctor. I have severe allergies and would like to ask if the Department of Internal Medicine, specifically the Allergy and Immunology division, offers desensitization therapy.
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Yes. Please see Dr. Chuan-Chin Lu in the Immunology and Rheumatology department on Wednesday afternoon.[Read More] Is Allergy Desensitization Treatment Available in Internal Medicine?
Excessive Gas and Bloating: Understanding Your Digestive Issues
How could this happen? Doctor, I've been asking here for a long time. I followed your advice, but nothing seems to work. My stomach keeps making gurgling noises, and I keep passing gas. The gas has no sensation but is extremely foul-smelling. Sometimes I have a bowel movemen...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Dear Unknown Sir, Gastrointestinal discomfort, rapid peristalsis, or excessive foul-smelling gas is primarily related to dietary choices, endocrine issues, and emotional factors. Therefore, to improve the situation, it is recommended to: 1. Reduce the intake of gas-producing foo...[Read More] Excessive Gas and Bloating: Understanding Your Digestive Issues
Why Does My Stomach Growl at Night? Understanding Digestive Sounds
The stomach often makes noises? Why does my stomach always make noises when I go to bed at night? Is it a sign that my digestive system is not functioning well?
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello Erica: "Borborygmi" indicates that the intestines are moving too quickly or that you have consumed too many gas-producing foods. It is advisable to reduce the intake of gas-producing foods such as milk and legumes. Additionally, if this persists over a long period...[Read More] Why Does My Stomach Growl at Night? Understanding Digestive Sounds
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Treatments, and Concerns
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing diarrhea for the past month. Three weeks ago, I went to see a doctor, and after a stool test, the doctor informed me that I had mild intestinal inflammation. He prescribed medication to aid digestion and relieve bloat...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello BB: Colitis can be caused by inflammatory reactions, infectious lesions, or tumors, as well as emotional responses. Therefore, it is important to address the underlying issues. Based on the description, improving your diet and relaxing your mind should lead to symptom relie...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Treatments, and Concerns
Understanding Blood in Stool: Potential Causes and Health Risks
Bowel issues? I have recently experienced occasional blood in my stool, and there is some pain during bowel movements. If this is due to hemorrhoids, colorectal cancer, or polyps, what impact could it have on my health if I don't see a doctor? Additionally, my menstrual flow...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Green Winter: The most common causes of bloody stools may include hemorrhoids, polyps, enteritis, tumors, or coagulation disorders, so further examination is advisable.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Potential Causes and Health Risks
Understanding Persistent Gas and Bowel Changes: A Patient's Guide
Why can't it be detected? Hello doctor, I have many questions to ask you. I have been experiencing excessive flatulence, and it seems to be continuous. It gets worse when I lift heavy objects, and the gas is quite foul-smelling. My bowel habits have also changed; sometimes I...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Dear Mr. Panic: Dysfunction of intestinal motility and changes in bowel habits may indicate gastrointestinal issues. The simplest method is to conduct a stool test, which can provide valuable information to a gastroenterologist. I also encourage you to visit a hospital for furt...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Gas and Bowel Changes: A Patient's Guide