Understanding Pulsating Sensations in the Stomach: Causes and Concerns
Feeling a pulsation in the stomach? Hello, doctor: Recently, I have been feeling a pulsating sensation in my stomach, along with a feeling of pressure in my abdomen. Could this be indigestion?
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
The sensation of gastric pulsations is often due to rapid gastrointestinal motility, which may be caused by acute gastritis, peptic ulcers, or food indigestion. Additionally, anxiety or irregular eating habits may also contribute to this phenomenon. If symptoms do not improve, pl...[Read More] Understanding Pulsating Sensations in the Stomach: Causes and Concerns
Chronic Morning Cough and Nausea: Causes and Solutions
Nausea? Hello Dr. Hong: I often experience a mild cough upon waking up every day, accompanied by nausea and excessive stomach acid. This condition has persisted for 10 years, and it is particularly noticeable during colder weather. I am unsure of the cause. What should I pay atte...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
A dry cough after waking up may be due to allergic bronchitis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) causing the cough. It is recommended to avoid irritating foods and sweets in your diet, as well as the habit of eating late at night. Additionally, if symptoms persist or worse...[Read More] Chronic Morning Cough and Nausea: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Liver Nodules: What You Need to Know About Your Health
There are small bubbles on the liver? I have no symptoms, but during an ultrasound examination, the doctor found small bubbles on my liver and is unsure if there is a connection. I am a carrier of hepatitis B. Please provide some advice on diet and management, and whether further...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Most liver cysts (hepatic cysts) are benign, but since you are a carrier of hepatitis B, it is important to remain vigilant. You should have ultrasound examinations, liver function tests, and alpha-fetoprotein tests every 4 to 6 months. If any issues arise, please consult a gastr...[Read More] Understanding Liver Nodules: What You Need to Know About Your Health
Understanding Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions for Fresh Breath
What are the causes of bad breath? Doctor: I have been a vegetarian for over six years, but I have heard from friends that I have bad breath. My diet consists of fewer types of food compared to meat-eaters. Why do I still have bad breath? Previously, I experienced some bloating, ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Bad breath can be caused by digestive dysfunction, dietary habits, periodontal disease, and insufficient water intake. Please consult a dentist at our clinic for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions for Fresh Breath
Understanding Abdominal Distension: Ovarian Cysts and Pregnancy Concerns
Abdominal distension? Six months ago, I discovered a six-centimeter cyst on my ovary. I have consulted various hospitals, some suggested surgery while others recommended monitoring it. However, two weeks ago, I found out that I am pregnant. An ultrasound showed no signs of a gest...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
If you are experiencing abdominal bloating, pregnancy, or an ovarian cyst, it is important to visit the obstetrics and gynecology department at the hospital for a thorough examination to rule out any gynecological issues. It is also advisable to consult the gastroenterology depar...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Distension: Ovarian Cysts and Pregnancy Concerns
Understanding Changes in Digestive Habits and Their Impact on Health
Changes in digestive habits In the past month, I have noticed a significant decrease in bowel movements, while my intake of fruits and vegetables remains unchanged. I have developed many red spots on my face and consulted a dermatologist, but the medication prescribed does not se...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Acne may be related to hormonal imbalances or bacterial infections. It is advisable to exercise regularly, drink plenty of water, and consume a high-fiber diet. If there are any abnormalities in bowel habits, please follow up with a gastroenterologist.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Digestive Habits and Their Impact on Health
Managing Bloating After Duodenal Ulcer: Long-Term Solutions and Concerns
Duodenal ulcer Three years ago, I suffered from a duodenal ulcer and bleeding, and tested positive for Helicobacter pylori, which has since been eradicated. My daily diet is very bland, but I still often experience abdominal bloating and gas, which is quite distressing. Sometimes...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
60-90% of duodenal ulcers are associated with Helicobacter pylori (HP), and only about 10% have a chance of recurrence after triple therapy eradication. Currently, there is a condition known as Non-Ulcer Dyspepsia (NUD) or recurrent peptic ulcers. It is recommended to perform HP ...[Read More] Managing Bloating After Duodenal Ulcer: Long-Term Solutions and Concerns
Understanding Neck Artery Pain: Causes and Connections to Heart Health
Carotid artery pain? Recently, I have been experiencing pain in the arteries of my neck, which feels similar to muscle cramps—very painful but only lasts for a moment, and it occurs suddenly and unpredictably on both sides of my neck. I am unsure what might be causing this. I hav...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
According to your description, primary hypertension accounts for approximately 85-90% of hypertension cases; however, it is essential to rule out causes such as congenital renal artery stenosis, adrenal tumors, or other endocrine disorders. Therefore, spontaneous hypertension sho...[Read More] Understanding Neck Artery Pain: Causes and Connections to Heart Health
Struggling with Constipation: Effective Solutions and Tips
Constipation I have been experiencing chronic constipation for a long time and have tried many methods, including eating fruits and other remedies. However, nothing seems to improve my condition, and I am unsure what to do. Could you please provide a detailed explanation? Thank y...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Constipation can have many causes, including insufficient hydration, lack of physical activity, and low fiber intake. If improvements are made and constipation persists, consider conditions such as congenital megacolon, congenital intestinal neuropathy, or intestinal tumors. If t...[Read More] Struggling with Constipation: Effective Solutions and Tips
Understanding Phenylketonuria: Symptoms and Insights
What is phenylketonuria? Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetic disorder characterized by the inability to metabolize phenylalanine, an amino acid found in many protein-containing foods. This condition is caused by a deficiency in the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase. Symptoms of PK...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a congenital amino acid metabolism disorder, with an incidence of approximately 1 in 160,000 in the United States. It often leads to intellectual disabilities and is clinically associated with seizures, cognitive impairment, and the presence of a distinct...[Read More] Understanding Phenylketonuria: Symptoms and Insights
Does Appendectomy Lead to Weight Gain? Understanding the Connection
Will I gain weight after an appendectomy? Hello, doctor: I have several friends and relatives who have undergone an appendectomy, and they all gained weight afterward. What could be the reason for this? I am quite thin myself (male, 166 cm, 48 kg), and if I were to gain weight af...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
There is no direct relationship between appendectomy and weight gain; therefore, post-surgery weight gain may be related to diet, individual constitution, and physical activity levels.[Read More] Does Appendectomy Lead to Weight Gain? Understanding the Connection
Why Does My Breath Smell Like Alcohol After Exercise?
Alcohol breath After exercising, I often notice a smell of alcohol in my breath (even though I haven't consumed any alcohol). Is this phenomenon normal?
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
After exercise, if your breath has a smell similar to alcohol, further examination may be necessary, as it could be related to metabolism or diet. Please schedule an appointment with a general internal medicine clinic for a detailed investigation of the cause.[Read More] Why Does My Breath Smell Like Alcohol After Exercise?
Thickening Toenails: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Thickening of the toenails? After wearing new shoes on a hike, my toenail became bruised and turned black, eventually falling off. When it grew back, it became thicker. Should I be concerned about any underlying issues, and which specialist should I see?
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Nail bruising or loss due to injury may be caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes. It is generally not a serious concern for the body; however, it is important to avoid infection and wear appropriate footwear. If there are any questions, a consultation with a general surgery clinic ...[Read More] Thickening Toenails: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Health Implications and Pregnancy Concerns
Hepatitis B carrier Three years ago, I was diagnosed with hepatitis B through a blood test, and in September of the 89th year, I had a blood test for the E antigen, which indicated that I do not have hepatitis B. However, in June of the 89th year, I underwent a premarital health ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
1. Hepatitis B carriers should undergo ultrasound and liver function tests (SGOT, SGPT, and AFP) every three to six months. 2. The term "cocktail therapy" is a general term, and the specific contents vary among different theories, so its impact on the liver is unknown. ...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Health Implications and Pregnancy Concerns
Understanding Gallbladder Polyps and Fatty Liver: Health Implications and Dietary Tips
Polyp in the gallbladder Recently, during a health check-up, an abdominal ultrasound revealed (1) a polyp in the gallbladder and (2) fatty liver. Are these issues a concern for health, and do they require further treatment? How should I adjust my daily diet accordingly?
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
1. For gallbladder polyps, it is recommended to follow up in the outpatient clinic every three to six months if the size does not exceed 1 centimeter; if it exceeds 1 centimeter, surgical resection is advised due to the potential for malignancy. 2. The causes of fatty liver inclu...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Polyps and Fatty Liver: Health Implications and Dietary Tips
Why Am I Passing Gas Frequently? Understanding Causes and Effects
Why is the frequency of passing gas so high every day? Having a normal diet but experiencing frequent flatulence, sometimes as often as twice every five minutes, can be attributed to several factors. Common causes include the consumption of certain foods that are high in fiber, s...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
1. Frequent flatulence; it is recommended to reduce the intake of fermentable foods such as milk, bread, steamed buns, and legumes. 2. There are no adverse effects on the body.[Read More] Why Am I Passing Gas Frequently? Understanding Causes and Effects
Understanding Lactose Intolerance: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Gastrointestinal issues When I drink milk or related products, it seems that I always have diarrhea, and sometimes my stomach makes gurgling noises and I experience gas. Could this be lactose intolerance? Is there a way to treat it, or is it something that cannot be improved?
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
85 to 90 percent of East Asians are lactose intolerant, so if diarrhea (or pain) persists even after consuming diluted milk or lactose-reduced milk, the only option is to avoid dairy products altogether.[Read More] Understanding Lactose Intolerance: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Frequent High Fever: Causes and Alternatives for Treatment
Frequent high fever? On average, I experience unexplained high fevers every month, lasting for three to four days. I am allergic to antipyretics, so I cannot take medication. Thank you.
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Fever is a symptom of the body's response to external bacterial infections, so it is important to determine whether there is an upper respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, or an allergic immune disorder. Additionally, the severity of the fever and the presenc...[Read More] Frequent High Fever: Causes and Alternatives for Treatment
Understanding Abnormal Liver Function Tests: What Do Your Results Mean?
Liver dysfunction I had a blood test at the end of June this year, and three liver function results showed abnormal values: Total Protein (8.8), Globulin (4.1), G.O.T. (40), and G.P.T. (80). What issues might my liver have, and how should I address them? Thank you!
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Liver function abnormalities are commonly seen in acute hepatitis, chronic persistent hepatitis, or congenital bile metabolism disorders, among others. It is recommended to follow up with a gastroenterology outpatient clinic and undergo ultrasound examination.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Liver Function Tests: What Do Your Results Mean?
Understanding Causes of Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Children
Causes of gastrointestinal bleeding in children? Our second child, who is in the fourth grade this year (height 126 cm, weight 26 kg), usually does not complain of stomach pain, has a good appetite, and eats plenty of fruits and vegetables. However, he occasionally experiences co...
Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Upper gastrointestinal bleeding in children (generally, if there is blood in the stool, it indicates lower gastrointestinal bleeding) can commonly be caused by infectious enteritis, congenital vascular malformations, and other conditions such as colonic polyposis. The primary con...[Read More] Understanding Causes of Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Children