Understanding Elevated CA199 and Amylase Levels: Clinical Implications
CA19-9 and Amylase Hello: I underwent interferon treatment for hepatitis C 10 years ago. However, in the past 2 to 3 years, I have found that my regularly monitored CA 19-9 levels are twice the upper limit of the standard value, and my amylase levels are 1.38 times the upper limi...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The CA19-9 level is twice the upper limit of the standard value, and the amylase level is 1.38 times the upper limit of the standard value. Both values remain elevated. Although the levels are not extremely high, it is important to consider potential issues related to the ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CA199 and Amylase Levels: Clinical Implications
Understanding the Clinical Significance of Elevated CA199 and Amylase Levels
CA199 and amylase Hello: I underwent interferon treatment for hepatitis C ten years ago, but in the past two to three years, I have found that my regularly monitored CA 19-9 levels are twice the upper limit of the normal range, and my amylase levels are 1.38 times the upper limit...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The CA 19-9 level is twice the upper limit of the standard value, and the amylase level is 1.38 times the upper limit of the standard value. Both values remain elevated. Although the levels are not extremely high, it is important to consider issues related to the pancreas,...[Read More] Understanding the Clinical Significance of Elevated CA199 and Amylase Levels
Understanding Blood in Stool: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something More Serious?
Occasionally, there may be blood in the stool? 1. Before having a bowel movement, I sometimes feel a mild cramping sensation in my lower abdomen, just below the navel. Occasionally, it feels slightly more intense, but it's not extremely painful. Is this normal? I have a tend...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I experience constipation and mild pain near the navel before bowel movements. When I was 19, I had instances of blood in my stool, and I have hemorrhoids. I experience rectal bleeding one to three times every six months, and recently I have felt that my bowel movements ar...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something More Serious?
Understanding Side Effects of Hemorrhoid Suppositories: What to Expect
After using hemorrhoid suppositories Since Monday evening, I have been using a hemorrhoidal suppository. After using it, I sometimes feel a burning sensation and pain in the anal area. I stopped using it the night before last, and now there is swelling in the area between the anu...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the skin around the anus is as delicate as the skin on other parts of the body and can be prone to allergies or irritation, leading to conditions such as eczema, acne, abscesses, and infections. Hemorrhoidal suppositories are solid dosage forms designed in a finger-like sh...[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Hemorrhoid Suppositories: What to Expect
Effects of Inducing Vomiting: Health Risks and Recovery Tips
Inducing vomiting two to three times can lead to several potential health issues. It may cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and irritation or damage to the esophagus and throat. Additionally, Doctor, excuse me: I induced vomiting due to feeling unwell, and now I only feel...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Inducing vomiting can sometimes lead to esophagitis and pharyngitis, and in severe cases, it may cause esophageal and gastric bleeding, or even esophageal tears and aspiration pneumonia. It is recommended to maintain a normal and gentle diet, avoiding spicy and irritating ...[Read More] Effects of Inducing Vomiting: Health Risks and Recovery Tips
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and Management Insights
Gastrointestinal issues Dr. Lin: Hello, I have been experiencing abdominal discomfort for half a month. Initially, my symptoms included unformed stools that were loose and soft, occasionally containing undigested food particles, which felt like indigestion. After eating, I would ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a 31-year-old female has been experiencing abdominal discomfort, loose stools, indigestion, and frequent bloating for the past two weeks. She has seen a gastroenterologist, and her symptoms have improved; it is likely a case of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with symptoms...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and Management Insights
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain Near Reproductive Organs: Causes and Concerns
Regarding the lower abdominal area near the reproductive organs, there is a feeling of slight discomfort and pain? Hello doctor, I am currently 24 years old. Normally, I have a sexual desire once a day, but in the past month, I have suddenly noticed a dull pain in the lower left ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a 24-year-old male presents with lower abdominal pain and back pain. The causes of lower abdominal pain may include gastrointestinal, peritoneal, and urogenital issues. It is important to monitor for symptoms such as abdominal distension, hernias, abnormal bowel movements,...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain Near Reproductive Organs: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain Near Reproductive Organs: Causes and Concerns
Regarding the lower abdominal area near the reproductive organs, there is a feeling of slight discomfort and pain? Hello doctor, I am currently 24 years old. Normally, I have a sexual desire once a day, but in the past month, I have suddenly noticed a dull pain in the lower left ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: A 24-year-old male presents with lower abdominal pain and back pain. Possible causes of lower abdominal pain include gastrointestinal, peritoneal, and urogenital issues. It is important to check for symptoms such as abdominal distension, hernias, abnormal bowel movements, ...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain Near Reproductive Organs: Causes and Concerns
Managing Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights from a Hepatobiliary Specialist
Gastrointestinal issues, please consult Dr. Ming-Hui? Hello Dr. Lin, I received your reply today. I have been experiencing some recent stomach issues and would like to report and inquire about them. I have consulted with a psychiatrist and a gastroenterologist (I have had an ultr...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, for a 48-year-old male with psychogenic gastritis, it is advisable to consume a gentle diet to prevent stomach cramps. Avoid greasy, overly sweet, cold, irritating, and hard-to-digest foods. Maintain a normal and balanced diet, eating three meals a day without rushing. Dur...[Read More] Managing Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights from a Hepatobiliary Specialist
Understanding Digestive Health: When to See a Gastroenterologist
Bowel movement questions Since childhood, I have had a tendency to experience diarrhea. I have experienced every type of stool according to the Bristol Stool Chart. I used to love eating meat, but later switched to a diet primarily consisting of vegetables and some fiber suppleme...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a 30-year-old female with questions about bowel movements. She has a tendency towards diarrhea but has recently described her stools as types 2 and 3 on the Bristol Stool Chart, with multiple soft stools. She usually consumes fiber and experiences flatulence. She drinks en...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Health: When to See a Gastroenterologist
Understanding Left Lower Rib Pain: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Pain under the rib cage? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about an incident that happened when I was in the 6th grade. I experienced severe pain in the lower left side of my ribcage, close to my stomach, which was so intense that I collapsed and couldn't get up. Since that...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a 25-year-old female is experiencing intermittent sharp pain in the lower left side of the rib cage, near the stomach. Possible causes could include neuropathic pain or gastrointestinal spasms. The nearby anatomical structures include the esophagus, stomach, large intestin...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Rib Pain: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Post-Drinking Vomiting: What Could That Hard Substance Be?
Vomiting after alcohol consumption I have been experiencing long-term gastrointestinal discomfort and have a family history of gastroesophageal reflux disease. I underwent a colonoscopy, which showed no issues, but I have not had an upper endoscopy yet. After drinking alcohol, I ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, after vomiting due to alcohol consumption, there is a possibility of esophageal tears, bleeding, or rupture. The black substance may be a mixture of blood clots and food that has turned black due to gastric acid. Vomiting the contents of the stomach can provide relief. Lon...[Read More] Understanding Post-Drinking Vomiting: What Could That Hard Substance Be?
Managing Low Pancreatic Function and Triglycerides: Dietary Considerations
Pancreatic insufficiency and low triglycerides? Hello, I have a cyst on my pancreas. Recently, during a check-up, my doctor found that my triglyceride level is only 33. The doctor prescribed me pancrelipase enteric-coated microgranules and ursodeoxycholic acid. I would like to kn...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello! The presence of pancreatic cysts does not necessarily correlate with pancreatic insufficiency or low triglyceride levels. Whether consuming 15cc of oil alone is beneficial or harmful should be advised based on clinical conditions. It is recommended for individuals with gal...[Read More] Managing Low Pancreatic Function and Triglycerides: Dietary Considerations
Concerns About Colon Cancer: Understanding Abdominal Discomfort and Symptoms
Concerned about whether it is colorectal cancer? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing occasional abdominal discomfort since last week. However, since my menstrual period started, I am unsure what might be causing it. Last week, I frequently had loose stools that were not entire...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello! Irregular bowel movements can sometimes be soft and sometimes hard, and there may be mucus present. You have previously undergone a rectal examination and have been diagnosed with an anal fissure. Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing irritabl...[Read More] Concerns About Colon Cancer: Understanding Abdominal Discomfort and Symptoms
Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Mucus in stool Hello Doctor: This past week, I've been experiencing some constipation (only small pellets) and sometimes feel the urge to use the restroom but end up sitting for a long time without being able to go. I've also noticed yellow-green mucus leaking from my a...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello! The presence of mucus in the stool, along with constipation, painful bowel movements, yellow-green discharge, and external hemorrhoids, can be concerning. It is normal for stool to contain some mucus; however, if there is an excessive amount with a foul odor, it may indica...[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding and Managing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Symptoms
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) In March 2020, I was diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) at the hospital. The evaluation only included a consultation without an endoscopy or other tests. Currently, my symptoms include chest tightness, shortness of breath,...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello! The typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) include chest tightness and a burning sensation, commonly referred to as heartburn. Atypical symptoms may include a sensation of something stuck in the throat, coughing, and hoarseness. Diagnosis can be made th...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Symptoms
Understanding Morning Bowel Movements: Is It Normal or a Concern?
Bowel-related issues? Doctor, I have been waking up in the morning to have bowel movements that are smooth and soft. However, after finishing, I feel the urge to go again shortly after, and this can happen 3 to 4 times in a row, but the amount is not much. Is this normal? Could i...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello! Loose stools, frequent bowel movements, and an incomplete feeling after defecation can be related to diet and the autonomic nervous system. Excessive emotional stress can lead to overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, which disrupts normal gastrointestinal functio...[Read More] Understanding Morning Bowel Movements: Is It Normal or a Concern?
Loose Stools and Weight Loss: Understanding Digestive Issues
Loose stools + continuous weight loss? I have been experiencing loose stools for two consecutive months, where the stool disperses immediately upon flushing. I consulted a doctor who suggested that I might have eaten something that caused this, and after taking medication, it was...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello! A 21-year-old female presents with loose stools and ongoing weight loss. Despite medication improving her condition, she continues to experience good appetite and indigestion, leading to further weight reduction. It is advisable to consult with internal medicine, family me...[Read More] Loose Stools and Weight Loss: Understanding Digestive Issues
Managing Rapid Gastric Motility and Pain After Dinner: Tips for Recovery
Within 7 days, there were 2 instances of rapid gastric motility after dinner at night? Hello, doctor. I have been recovering from gastritis and recently experienced severe stabbing pain in my stomach after dinner (braised pork rice). This has led me to visit the emergency room tw...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello! Does drinking water help with back pain? The causes of back pain may include muscular or neurological issues, and prolonged inactivity from lying down for too long can lead to discomfort in the back. Peptic ulcers, gastritis, and pancreatitis can also cause pain that radia...[Read More] Managing Rapid Gastric Motility and Pain After Dinner: Tips for Recovery
Understanding Nausea and Diarrhea: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea? Yesterday for breakfast, I had an egg pancake and pan-fried dumplings. For lunch, I drank a bottle of milk, and for dinner, I had a chicken leg bento. After falling asleep last night and waking up this morning, I suddenly felt nauseous and had the ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: A 24-year-old female presents with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. She reports that her bowel movements are liquid, and her abdomen feels relieved after defecation. She has no prior gastrointestinal issues. The sudden onset of nausea and vomiting may be due to foodborne il...[Read More] Understanding Nausea and Diarrhea: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues