Understanding Blood on Toilet Paper: Gastrointestinal Health Concerns
There is blood on the toilet paper? Hello Doctor: I am 25 years old and my bowel habits are about 2 to 3 times a week (the shape varies, and sometimes I experience abdominal pain and diarrhea). A few months ago, I was hospitalized due to a fever, and for a period of time, I had d...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a 25-year-old female is concerned about noticing red streaks on toilet paper after bowel movements, which may indicate bleeding. She has a history of colonoscopy showing internal hemorrhoids and polyps. The polyps require follow-up colonoscopy. Hard stools can cause hemorr...[Read More] Understanding Blood on Toilet Paper: Gastrointestinal Health Concerns
Understanding Constipation: Frequency, Diet, and Abdominal Concerns
Bowel movement issues I would like to ask if having a bowel movement only 1-2 times a week is considered severe constipation. Recently, I ate stir-fried black beans, and after eating them, I had a bowel movement. Is this normal? Also, both my stool and urine are dark grayish-blac...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Having bowel movements 1-2 times a week is not considered severe constipation. Eating legumes can sometimes cause gas and bloating in the gastrointestinal tract. There are many reasons for abdominal distension, such as subcutaneous fat accumulation! Both exercise and diet ...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: Frequency, Diet, and Abdominal Concerns
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Causes of Green Stool and Gastritis
Gastrointestinal issues Hello, doctor: I have been suffering from gastritis for over seven months now. There was a slight improvement in the middle, but I have started experiencing discomfort and pain again. Since the first endoscopy, the doctor has consistently advised me to jus...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I often experience discomfort and pain in my stomach, and I have recurrent gastritis. I have undergone gastroscopy and treatment. It is advised to pay attention to your diet and avoid irritating foods (such as those that are too sweet, too oily, or too spicy). Maintain a r...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Causes of Green Stool and Gastritis
Understanding Discomfort: Why Sitting Can Pressure Your Stomach
Feeling pressure on the stomach while sitting? I feel pressure on my stomach when sitting, which is very uncomfortable.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if you feel pressure on your stomach while sitting, it may be due to overeating, indigestion, or issues related to the gastrointestinal, biliary, or pancreatic systems. If the symptoms persist, please visit a family medicine, general internal medicine, or gastroenterology ...[Read More] Understanding Discomfort: Why Sitting Can Pressure Your Stomach
Understanding CA72-4 Tumor Marker Levels and Their Implications for Stomach Health
CA72-4 tumor marker I would like to ask the doctor, if the CA72-4 tumor marker is as high as 41.16, does it indicate that there is a problem with the stomach? Is it possible that it could be stomach cancer?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the CA72-4 tumor marker is not very specific or sensitive in clinical practice. Unlike colorectal cancer, which is tested with CEA, or pancreatic cancer, which uses CA 19-9 as a better tumor marker, there is currently no good tumor marker for gastric cancer. However, if CA...[Read More] Understanding CA72-4 Tumor Marker Levels and Their Implications for Stomach Health
Understanding Brown Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns
The stool has brown mucus? Hello, I have recently noticed that my stools are coarser and have a brownish mucus on the surface, with some cracks at the front where mucus also appears. Additionally, the stools themselves are yellowish and contain many white specks resembling sesame...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The stool has coffee-colored mucus, and the feces are yellow with white spots. Abnormal stool can be related to food, medications, and intestinal diseases. If there are no changes, a stool test can be conducted, followed by further examinations. Wishing you peace and healt...[Read More] Understanding Brown Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Intermittent Upper Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Intermittent stabbing pain in the right upper abdomen? After undergoing gastroscopy and abdominal ultrasound, the doctor mentioned that there were no significant issues, only excessive gastric acid secretion and a mild gastric ulcer. After taking medication, I felt much better, b...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a 23-year-old male presents with intermittent stabbing pain in the right upper abdomen. He has a history of excessive gastric acid and mild gastric ulcers, which had previously improved. The symptoms have recurred, with pain exacerbated when sitting. His weight has recentl...[Read More] Intermittent Upper Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Managing Fatty Liver and GERD: A Patient's Journey to Health
I have a question I would like to ask the doctor? Hello Doctor: I have had abnormal liver function since 2003. I do not smoke, drink alcohol, or chew betel nut, but I have always loved sugary drinks. In the past, I also frequently stayed up late, and I only exercised during physi...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. For those prone to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is advisable to pay attention to diet by reducing coffee intake, and limiting chocolate, spicy foods, and high-fat foods. 2. Helicobacter pylori is associated with chronic gastritis, gastrointestinal ulce...[Read More] Managing Fatty Liver and GERD: A Patient's Journey to Health
Understanding Anal Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Anal issues Hello, doctor. Last month I experienced rectal bleeding and consulted a gastroenterologist. The doctor performed a colonoscopy, and the report indicated that I only have mixed hemorrhoids. After prescribing an ointment, the doctor advised me to drink more water, eat m...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Regarding anal issues, a colonoscopy shows no problems, but there is frequent bleeding. It is advisable to consult a colorectal specialist to check for other issues, such as anal fissures. Try to maintain formed stools by adjusting your diet or medication. Severe hemorrhoi...[Read More] Understanding Anal Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Should You See a Doctor for Weight Loss and Irregular Bowel Movements?
Weight loss and irregular bowel movements—should I seek medical attention? Hello doctor, for the past month or two, my bowel movements have often been unformed, feeling somewhat sticky and loose. After using the restroom, I don't feel completely relieved. During my four year...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, you often have unformed stools that feel somewhat sticky and loose, and you are experiencing weight loss. It is advisable to pay attention to your dietary habits, eat less greasy food, maintain a regular eating schedule, and keep a positive mood. If there is no improvement...[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for Weight Loss and Irregular Bowel Movements?
Is It Safe to Use Contrast Dye One Week After Kidney Stone Surgery?
Can contrast agents be administered within one week after endoscopic surgery for kidney stones? Last week, my husband underwent extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for kidney stones, but the stones were not fragmented. Today, on the 6th, he is scheduled for endoscopic surgery t...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, to differentiate between benign and malignant liver tumors using a CT scan, it is necessary to administer a contrast agent to assist in the diagnostic evaluation of the tumor. However, the injection of the contrast agent raises concerns about potential impacts on renal fun...[Read More] Is It Safe to Use Contrast Dye One Week After Kidney Stone Surgery?
Understanding Painful Bumps Near the Anus: Is It Hemorrhoids?
There is a protrusion near the anus? Hello doctor, I have a protrusion near my anus that sometimes hurts. There is no bleeding during bowel movements, but it can be very painful. Could this be hemorrhoids? Do I need to have surgery? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: An 18-year-old female has a protrusion near the anus that sometimes causes pain, but there is no blood during bowel movements. Common causes may include inflammation of the anus or surrounding skin, or the formation of abscesses. It is advisable to consult a colorectal spe...[Read More] Understanding Painful Bumps Near the Anus: Is It Hemorrhoids?
Do Calcium Channel Blockers for Angina Worsen GERD Symptoms?
Angina treatment and gastroesophageal reflux issues? Hello Dr. Lin: May I ask if the use of medication (calcium channel blockers) for angina could worsen gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? I would greatly appreciate your clarification!
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There are many causes of gastroesophageal reflux, including lifestyle habits, diet, and medications. Medications for angina, such as nitrates and calcium channel blockers, can affect the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to or exacerbating gastroesophagea...[Read More] Do Calcium Channel Blockers for Angina Worsen GERD Symptoms?
Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Foreign body sensation in the right lower abdomen? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about the sensation of a foreign body in the lower right abdomen (the area just below the navel). Currently, during my military service, I have been experiencing stress and irregular bowel m...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You are experiencing a sensation of foreign body in the lower right abdomen, with intermittent occurrences before and after bowel movements, and have been taking laxatives for a long time. Laxatives can sometimes stimulate gastrointestinal motility, leading to discomfort. ...[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Managing Acid Reflux: Effective Strategies and Medication Insights
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be managed through several strategies. Here are some effective ways to control it: 1. **Dietary Changes**: Avoid trigger foods such as spicy dishes, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, and fatty foods. Eating smaller Three years ago, I ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Rabeprazole (Enteric-coated tablets) and Lansoprazole (Nankang) are both proton pump inhibitors (H+, K+-ATPase inhibitors) that can suppress gastric acid secretion, used for the treatment of peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In addition to pharmac...[Read More] Managing Acid Reflux: Effective Strategies and Medication Insights
Understanding Foul-Tasting Saliva at the Back of the Tongue: Causes and Solutions
Saliva at the base of the tongue (throat) has a fishy odor (similar to the smell of rotting fish)? Hello Dr. Lin: May I ask you about my condition? The saliva at the base of my tongue (throat) has a foul odor, resembling the smell of rotten fish (while the saliva in other areas o...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if there are no issues with the dental or ENT examinations, it is recommended to pay attention to your diet and avoid spicy foods. It is advisable to check for any gastrointestinal or esophageal problems. Wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Atte...[Read More] Understanding Foul-Tasting Saliva at the Back of the Tongue: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Milk Thistle in Liver Health: Benefits and Concerns
Regarding the ingredients of Silymarin liver protection capsules: Milk Thistle? Hello, doctor. I have some questions regarding Silymarin liver protection capsules. Question 1: I have hepatitis B and would like to know if this product containing milk thistle can be taken long-te...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Hepatitis B is a viral hepatitis, and it is important to protect the liver by avoiding staying up late, not taking medications indiscriminately, and undergoing regular follow-ups. Currently, there are oral antiviral medications and long-acting interferon injections avail...[Read More] Understanding Milk Thistle in Liver Health: Benefits and Concerns
Understanding Bloating and Black Stool: Causes and Solutions
Periodic abdominal distension and melena? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing bloating issues for a long time. I have undergone examinations, and the doctor mentioned that it is influenced by my menstrual cycle. However, during severe episodes, I can noticeably feel my stomach...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a 25-year-old female is experiencing bloating, belching, and symptoms related to her menstrual cycle, accompanied by abnormal bowel movements (black stools, reduced stool output, and mucus). The causes of bloating may include gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammation...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Black Stool: Causes and Solutions
Understanding White or Jelly-like Substances in Stool: Causes and Concerns
The presence of white or transparent jelly-like substances in the stool? Hello, doctor. Recently, I noticed a white or translucent jelly-like substance while wiping after a bowel movement. Could this be intestinal mucosa or food residue? Additionally, there is a bit of mucus when...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The composition of feces includes moisture, food residues, undigested food fibers, intestinal flora, and bodily waste. The shape of the stool can vary in size and is related to the fiber intake. White or transparent jelly-like substances may resemble mucus secretions that ...[Read More] Understanding White or Jelly-like Substances in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Hepatitis C Window Period and Test Results: Risks and Norms
Hepatitis C window period and test results? I previously worked in a private testing facility and sustained an injury to my finger, which came into contact with specimens. I would like to inquire about the general window period for Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. I have been u...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the window period for Hepatitis C is approximately 1 to 5 months. If Anti-HCV remains negative after 18 months of follow-up, it indicates that there has been no infection with Hepatitis C. Currently, there is no vaccine for Hepatitis C, so caution is necessary if there is ...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis C Window Period and Test Results: Risks and Norms