Understanding Yellow Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
The color of stool? Hello, doctor: This morning when I had a bowel movement, I noticed that the color of my stool was yellow (light yellow) and there were small particles attached to the stool, with a small amount of blood present. Could you please tell me what this condition mig...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Are: Please collect an abnormal stool sample about the size of a grain of rice and bring it in a clean, sealed plastic container to the hospital's gastroenterology outpatient clinic to determine if further colonoscopy is needed. Changhua Hospital cares about you, Chen...[Read More] Understanding Yellow Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Stomach Pain After Alcohol: When to Seek Further Treatment
There is a sensation of pain in the stomach? Hello Doctor, I do not have a habit of excessive drinking, but recently I drank too much hard liquor while out with friends, which led to vomiting. After vomiting, I experienced discomfort at the junction of my stomach and esophagus, ...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Shawn: Prilosec is a good medication for the stomach, as it significantly reduces gastric acid and accelerates the healing of ulcers at the junction of the stomach and esophagus (caused by severe vomiting leading to mucosal tears and bleeding). Changhua Hospital cares about...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Pain After Alcohol: When to Seek Further Treatment
Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: Signs of Hemorrhoids or More?
Changes in bowel habits Hello Doctor: I am 23 years old, and my bowel habits have changed significantly recently. Previously, everything was quite normal without any issues. Now, my current situation is that whether I have diarrhea or constipation, there is fresh blood from the a...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Ms. Chen, It is recommended that you visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic for a colonoscopy or rectoscopy to understand the cause. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Sincerely, Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: Signs of Hemorrhoids or More?
Managing Liver Tumors: Solutions for Bloating and Pain Relief
My father is ill with a liver tumor? My father is currently in Veterans General Hospital. He has been hospitalized since early March. He had jaundice, but it is slowly improving. He has a tube inserted into his body to drain the bile into a bag. Initially, everything was fine, bu...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Demi: I believe the doctors at the Veterans General Hospital will work hard to address your father's issues (due to the complexity of the condition and limited information, they are unable to provide you with specific advice). Wishing you and your family all the best a...[Read More] Managing Liver Tumors: Solutions for Bloating and Pain Relief
Can Hepatitis B Patients Safely Care for Others? Expert Insights
Hepatitis B Dr. Lee, I would like to ask you... Is it true that individuals with hepatitis B cannot care for patients? Is there a way to do so? This has been troubling me for a long time...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Xiaohua: Hepatitis B carriers can care for patients, but they should not donate blood to others. It is advisable for them to avoid staying up late to prevent triggering a Hepatitis B flare-up. Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood and sexual contact, and it is not trans...[Read More] Can Hepatitis B Patients Safely Care for Others? Expert Insights
Post-Acute Hepatitis: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Follow-up after acute hepatitis? Hello Dr. Li, I was hospitalized for alcohol treatment five years ago and have been intermittently taking medication since then. Currently, I am experiencing a loss of appetite, my physical condition is deteriorating, and I notice that when I re...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If liver function is normal, there is no need to worry for now (but you should abstain from alcohol!). If you experience easy bleeding (such as bleeding while brushing your teeth), it is important to consider the possibility of other diseases (including cirrhosis, alcoholi...[Read More] Post-Acute Hepatitis: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Is My Stomach Pain a Sign of Vomiting Blood? Understanding Ulcers
Is this vomiting blood? Hello, doctor. I am 24 years old, 165 cm tall, and weigh 86 kg. I have been experiencing stomach pain since I was 18 years old, but I initially found relief by taking stomach medications. However, in the past three years, the stomach pain has become more f...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Sir/Madam: Please seek immediate medical attention at a gastroenterology clinic or emergency room on an empty stomach. Be cautious of shock or fainting! Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Is My Stomach Pain a Sign of Vomiting Blood? Understanding Ulcers
Understanding Right Abdominal Discomfort During Early Pregnancy
Discomfort in the right abdominal area? Hello Doctor: I have been feeling discomfort in the right side of my abdomen lately. Sometimes it becomes severe and is accompanied by soreness in my thigh and the area where my body connects, as well as aching in my back. I also experience...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Jinjin: It is not uncommon to have some adhesions after abdominal surgery, which is related to individual constitution; however, it is difficult to determine the exact cause based on the description provided. It is recommended to visit a gynecologist for an examination and...[Read More] Understanding Right Abdominal Discomfort During Early Pregnancy
Understanding Tongue Coating: Its Connection to Digestive Health
Tongue coating and the stomach? Hello Dr. Lee, My tongue coating often changes color depending on what I eat, especially after drinking milk tea or black tea, which turns yellow. If I don't consume colored foods, it doesn't change color. I found information online sug...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Mi Dou: The issue with the tongue coating may need to be addressed by a dentist, but it is generally not related to the gastrointestinal tract. If the capsules you are taking are irritating, it is generally not recommended to continue using them. Additionally, you may cons...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Coating: Its Connection to Digestive Health
Understanding Bowel Sounds: Causes and Concerns in Gastrointestinal Health
Borborygmi Hello Dr. Chen: In February 2006, I experienced severe abdominal pain during my menstrual period, so on the fifth day of my cycle, I underwent an abdominal ultrasound. To my surprise, the doctor told me that there was nothing wrong with my uterus. However, I was puzzle...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Lin Zhi-Han: The colon naturally undergoes peristalsis at irregular intervals for bowel movements, so there is no need to worry. It is recommended to check the stool; if it is normal, you may take gastrointestinal motility inhibitors to alleviate symptoms (only keep them on...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Sounds: Causes and Concerns in Gastrointestinal Health
Is Frequent Flatulence a Cause for Concern? Understanding Digestive Health
Is it a problem to pass gas frequently? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my husband. He has regular bowel movements every day and does not have issues with constipation, but he has been troubled by excessive flatulence for many years. Sometimes the gas is very foul-smellin...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Xiao Mantou: Passing gas (flatulence) is normal and is related to digestive function and diet. There's no need to worry too much. Reducing dairy and high-starch foods may help. You could also consider submitting a stool sample to check for other underlying causes. Wis...[Read More] Is Frequent Flatulence a Cause for Concern? Understanding Digestive Health
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain After Excessive Drinking
Lower abdominal pain? Last month, the patient experienced vomiting and diarrhea due to excessive alcohol consumption. Although the diarrhea has resolved, they have been feeling discomfort in the lower abdomen, including bloating. There are episodes of cramping pain in the lower a...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello QUEEN: The symptoms mentioned may be due to the intestines not having returned to normal motility after gastroenteritis, and it is also possible that they are indicative of other functional gastrointestinal disorders, including symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. It is re...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain After Excessive Drinking
Chronic Constipation: When to Consider Another Colonoscopy?
Intestinal weakness and constipation? Hello, Dr. Lee... I have been experiencing constipation for 2 to 3 years. Two years ago, I underwent a colonoscopy and a barium X-ray examination, both of which were normal. The doctor prescribed laxatives, but I can only have a bowel movemen...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Yuan Yuan: The indications for a colonoscopy generally follow certain guidelines. It is recommended to undergo the examination if any of the following conditions are present: 1) Bleeding (including blood in stool or positive fecal occult blood test) 2) Family history of col...[Read More] Chronic Constipation: When to Consider Another Colonoscopy?
Understanding Constipation: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Could you please clarify your question regarding bowel movement issues? Hello, doctor. Besides when I travel, I usually have smooth bowel movements every morning. In fact, I feel the urge to go right after breakfast, and it only takes about two minutes. Three days ago, I ate a fe...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I'm very scared. 1) Is the presence of blood in the stool or bloody diarrhea an abnormal phenomenon? It is advisable to consider undergoing an endoscopic examination to determine the cause. 2) The aforementioned symptoms are more likely related to issues near the anus...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions
Understanding Gastric Volvulus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Gastric volvulus Hello, doctor. I have been prone to anxiety since childhood, and whenever I face significant exams, my stomach starts to hurt. Two years ago, while preparing for the advanced technician exam, I developed a stomach ulcer, possibly due to the intense exam pressure....
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Siyou: Based on the description above, functional gastrointestinal disorders (including non-ulcer dyspepsia, gastroparesis, irritable bowel syndrome, etc.) are possible causes. Of course, it is essential to first confirm whether any ulcers have healed. If it is a functional...[Read More] Understanding Gastric Volvulus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Elevated Urobilinogen Levels: Causes and Next Steps
Elevated levels of urobilinogen? Dear Doctor: A few years ago, I had a habit of drinking alcohol, but I stopped since I have a child. On November 4th, I underwent a health check-up, and my GOT and GPT levels were 18 and 17 U/L, respectively. However, my urine urobilinogen level w...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Yan: 1) If the urobilinogen level (which refers to the bilirubin value in urine tests) rises, it is important to confirm whether the bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase (ALK-P) levels in the blood tests are also elevated. This helps in the differential diagnosis of conditi...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Urobilinogen Levels: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Irregular Bowel Movements
Abdominal pain and irregular bowel movements? Hello Dr. Lee: I have a question for my boyfriend. For the past week or two, he has been experiencing discomfort in his abdomen every morning, feeling pain and the urge to use the bathroom. However, his bowel movements are not smooth;...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Cat: The symptoms mentioned may be caused by functional gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome. However, before making this diagnosis, it is essential to rule out other causes such as gas-related issues and structural abnormalities. This includes a ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Irregular Bowel Movements
Understanding Isolated Elevated r-GT Levels: Causes and Next Steps
Only r-GT is elevated, all other values are normal, and there is no history of alcohol abuse? Hello Dr. Lee: I recently underwent a health check-up, and the results are as follows: r-GT 85, SGOT 27, SGPT 28, alkaline phosphatase 77, direct bilirubin 0.2, total bilirubin 1.0, chol...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Josin: Elevated r-GT and TG levels are commonly caused by alcohol consumption, but there may be other reasons such as bile duct obstruction or cholestasis. It is recommended to undergo an abdominal ultrasound examination and to have long-term follow-up. Wishing you a speedy...[Read More] Understanding Isolated Elevated r-GT Levels: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain and Digestive Discomfort
Occasional sharp pain in the lower left abdomen, muscle soreness in the buttocks, and abdominal bloating? You may want to consult a gastroenterologist for your symptoms, as they can evaluate issues related to the gastrointestinal tract, including potential acid reflux. Additional...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Frances, 1. Left lower abdominal pain may be associated with issues in the gastrointestinal or urinary tract. In females, it may also involve gynecological organs such as the ovaries and uterus. Additionally, soft tissue structures (including muscles, fascia, ligaments, an...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain and Digestive Discomfort
Understanding Alcohol's Impact on Liver Health: A Guide for Busy Professionals
ALCOHOL Dr. Li: Hello, I am a normal office worker, slim, and I previously visited Chang Gung Memorial Hospital due to discomfort, where an ultrasound examination revealed a 4 cm mass on my liver. However, due to the distance, I switched to a nearby hospital, where the ultrasound...
Dr. Li Zhengqi reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. If there are abnormalities in the ultrasound examination, it is important to first determine if there is a history of chronic hepatitis, including whether there is a carrier status for hepatitis B or C. Relevant tumor markers should also be tested. If the findings are...[Read More] Understanding Alcohol's Impact on Liver Health: A Guide for Busy Professionals