Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Gastrointestinal discomfort Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing diarrhea for the past few days. Every time I eat, I have to go to the bathroom. The stool appears somewhat loose but formed, with a brown color that has a slight black tint. Throughout the day, I feel something un...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You are experiencing abdominal pain, diarrhea, loose stools, black stools, abdominal bloating, nausea, and belching—these may be due to foodborne illness or gastroenteritis. It is advised to pay extra attention to dietary habits and hygiene during the summer, including fre...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Black Stool and Weight Loss: When to Seek Medical Help
Bowel issues Doctor, I apologize for disturbing you. I am currently a high school junior transitioning to senior year. For a long time, my bowel movements have been dark and unformed. I used to not think much of it, but in recent months, I have often felt fatigued, even with suff...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Student Ming, Hello. You have reported abnormal bowel movements, often with dark-colored and unformed stools, and a feeling of weight loss. Recently, there have been red and black substances in your stool, and you are feeling anxious. The color of stool is related to the fo...[Read More] Understanding Black Stool and Weight Loss: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation, Bloating, and More
Liver, gallbladder, and gastrointestinal tract? Hello: I am currently in the ninth grade and have been experiencing constipation for several weeks. I have seen a doctor and taken medication, but I still do not have a bowel movement every day. I have also mentioned that I have gas...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Meggy, Hello. Constipation is related to congenital structure, metabolic endocrine factors, dietary habits, medications, mood, and other drugs. Young people often experience irritable bowel syndrome. It is recommended to pay attention to diet even amidst academic pressure: ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation, Bloating, and More
Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Elevated serum transaminases? Hello Doctor: My husband donates blood regularly every year. This year, his ALT levels were elevated. He went for a retest last week, and the results (87 U/L) are still elevated. Should he go to the hospital for a detailed examination? What precautio...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, "serum transaminase ALT," also known as SGPT, indicates abnormal liver function when elevated. It is advisable to investigate the underlying cause, with common reasons including fatty liver, viral hepatitis, other infections, metabolic diseases, autoimmune condit...[Read More] Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Understanding White Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Mucus at the beginning of the stool? Since last year, I have occasionally noticed a whitish mucus at the beginning of my stool, especially when the stool is thicker or harder. I saw a doctor yesterday but forgot to mention that the mucus is not transparent. What could be the issu...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the secretion of mucus serves a lubricating function that aids in normal bowel movements. It is important to pay attention to the quality of mucus secretion. If there is an excessive amount of mucus accompanied by foul odor or blood clots, one should be aware of other symp...[Read More] Understanding White Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results: Do You Need Further Monitoring?
Questions after Hepatitis B testing 2 Hello Dr. Lin: I previously underwent the following hepatitis B tests, and I have some questions regarding the test items and results: (1) Test item: Anti-HCV, result: Negative (0.06) S/CO; (2) Test item: HBc IgG (Hepatitis B core antibody), ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the presence of surface antibodies indicates protection and can help combat hepatitis B infection. If someone is known to be a chronic hepatitis B carrier for many years and later develops surface antibodies (HBsAb), it does not necessarily mean that the hepatitis B infect...[Read More] Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results: Do You Need Further Monitoring?
Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results: What Do They Mean?
Questions After Hepatitis B Testing Hello Dr. Lin: I underwent a hepatitis B test, and the test items and results are as follows: (1) Test item: Anti HCV, result: Negative (0.06) S/CO (2) Test item: HBc IgG (Hepatitis B core antibody), result: Positive (3) Test item: HBs Ag (Hepa...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The second hepatitis marker, IgG HBc, indicates whether there has been a past infection with hepatitis B. A positive result signifies a previous infection with hepatitis B, and if HBsAg is simultaneously negative, it indicates that the individual is not a carrier, meaning ...[Read More] Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results: What Do They Mean?
Managing Digestive Motility Issues: Natural Solutions and Probiotics
Digestive motility issues My stomach seems to not function daily; it only works when I exercise. What medications for gastrointestinal motility have fewer side effects? If I don't take medication, I experience indigestion, lack of appetite, bloating, and a bitter taste in my...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, in addition to ruling out organic issues for indigestion, it is important to pay attention to dietary habits, such as eating regularly, not eating too quickly, and avoiding greasy, hard-to-digest foods. If gastrointestinal motility is poor, a physician may prescribe prokin...[Read More] Managing Digestive Motility Issues: Natural Solutions and Probiotics
Understanding Bile Duct Obstruction and High Jaundice: Diagnosis and Next Steps
Bile duct obstruction ~ elevated bilirubin levels? Dear Doctor, my mother has high jaundice levels and sought treatment at China Medical University. The doctor mentioned that the high jaundice is due to bile duct obstruction and performed endoscopic biopsies twice. The hospital h...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Cholestasis caused by bile duct obstruction has led to jaundice, with a suspicion of bile duct cancer. Bile duct cancer is difficult to diagnose, but it can be assessed through endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with brush cytology and biopsy. Imaging st...[Read More] Understanding Bile Duct Obstruction and High Jaundice: Diagnosis and Next Steps
Understanding Frequent Watery Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns
Bowel movements occur once a day, but they are all watery stools? I would like to consult a doctor. For the past three days, I have experienced a consistent urge to have a bowel movement 30 minutes after lunch. However, when I go to the bathroom, I only find watery stools mixed w...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: After meals, you may experience abdominal rumbling, a sense of urgency to have a bowel movement, increased flatulence, and watery stools. Common causes could be irritable bowel syndrome or enteritis. It is advisable to pay attention to your diet, chew your food thoroughly,...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Watery Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns
Is It Safe to Fly After ERCP Surgery with Bleeding Concerns?
If there is bleeding from the wound after an ERCP, is it safe to fly? Hello, my husband underwent an ERCP 8 days ago (on April 2) due to a gallstone lodged in the bile duct. After the procedure, he experienced persistent black stools and a drop in blood pressure. Six days later (...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, after undergoing ERCP, postoperative bleeding is generally rare after hemostasis. However, it depends on whether the patient is prone to bleeding, such as those with chronic kidney failure on dialysis, those using anticoagulants, those on pain medications, or those with he...[Read More] Is It Safe to Fly After ERCP Surgery with Bleeding Concerns?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Mucus in Stool and Abdominal Pain
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor, for the past two to three months, I have frequently experienced mucus in my stools and gastrointestinal bloating. I often pass gas that contains mucus, and occasionally I have mild pain in my lower left abdomen. During this period, I have not...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, when feeling anxious and under pressure, it can affect gastrointestinal function. Emotions can impact gastrointestinal health, leading to symptoms such as bloating, excessive gas, mucus in stool, and left lower abdominal pain. However, if there is blood when wiping, it is ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Mucus in Stool and Abdominal Pain
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Blood in Stool and Abdominal Pain
Gastrointestinal issues I often experience bloody stools and abdominal pain accompanied by diarrhea. Why did the doctor ask me if I frequently take weight loss pills or traditional Chinese medicine during the colon examination, and why did the examination extend from the colon to...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You have symptoms of blood in the stool and abdominal pain. It is advisable to consult a physician for clearer examination results regarding your colonoscopy. For reference, based on general clinical experience: abnormal bowel movements can be related to medication history...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Blood in Stool and Abdominal Pain
Understanding Esophageal Issues: Causes and Solutions for Swallowing Difficulties
Esophageal issues? Hello Dr. Lin, I have been experiencing recurrent difficulties swallowing and pain while swallowing for a long time. I consulted a gastroenterologist who diagnosed me with excessive stomach acid and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). I also saw an otolaryn...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you have been experiencing long-term recurrent dysphagia, odynophagia, and have phlegm with blood streaks, with significant symptoms, in addition to paying attention to your diet, reducing alcohol consumption, smoking, and betel nut chewing, you should promptly seek out...[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Issues: Causes and Solutions for Swallowing Difficulties
Understanding Symptoms: Rectal Bleeding and Urinary Discomfort Explained
I would like to ask about the recently reappeared symptoms? Hello Doctor, I noticed a small growth near my anus at the beginning of the year. It doesn't hurt and cannot be pushed back in. When I have larger or harder stools, there is some bleeding, which sometimes appears on...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The girl has blood in her stool and a small growth near the anus. The most common causes are hemorrhoids and anal fissures. It is recommended to avoid spicy foods, and to ensure adequate hydration, fiber intake, and exercise to facilitate bowel movements. If urination is p...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Rectal Bleeding and Urinary Discomfort Explained
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
Lower abdominal pain? Is the area below the navel considered the abdomen? My menstrual period just ended, but for the past two days, I've been experiencing severe pain in my lower abdomen. On the first day, I had difficulty using the restroom and couldn't have a bowel m...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The organs in the lower abdomen include the intestines, cecum, urinary tract (bladder, ureters), ovaries, uterus, and peritoneum. Constipation and fecal impaction can cause abdominal pain, and urinary tract and gynecological diseases can also lead to abdominal pain. It is ...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Portal Vein Congestion: Implications and Next Steps
Portal vein congestion and swelling? Hello, I recently had a simple health check-up, and the report indicated "portal vein congestion and dilation (diameter 2 cm) without splenomegaly." What does "portal vein congestion and dilation (diameter 2 cm)" mean? What...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the portal vein supplies blood flow to the liver cells. Causes of portal vein enlargement include chronic hepatitis, hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis, or certain diseases and surgeries that can lead to thrombosis or embolism within the portal vein. Portal hypertension typically...[Read More] Understanding Portal Vein Congestion: Implications and Next Steps
Understanding Severe Stomach Cramps: Causes and Solutions
The stomach feels severely twisted and painful, making it difficult to stand upright? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about what diseases my symptoms might indicate and how I can improve my condition. Over the past three years, I have experienced three episodes of severe st...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, frequent symptoms such as bloating, nausea, occasional stomach cramps, and acid secretion may indicate a warning from your body, suggesting that there could be a gastrointestinal dysfunction or even an organic disease. It is advisable to pay attention to your lifestyle and...[Read More] Understanding Severe Stomach Cramps: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Splenic Hemangiomas: Are They Linked to Cancer?
Splenic hemangioma Recently, during a health check-up ultrasound, a hemangioma was found on the spleen. I would like to ask if there is a relationship between splenic hemangiomas and cancer. Is there a possibility that it could progress to cancer? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The presence of splenic masses is rarely associated with hematological, lymphatic diseases, or metastatic tumors. Hemangiomas are common benign conditions; if they are small and uniform, imaging studies typically indicate a hemangioma, and regular follow-up is usually suff...[Read More] Understanding Splenic Hemangiomas: Are They Linked to Cancer?
Can Stress Cause Stomach Ulcers? Understanding the Connection and Risks
Stress as a source leading to gastric ulcers? Hello, I have a few questions: Question 1: The patient is approximately 39 years old. Can stress cause gastric ulcers? Can stress experienced over the course of a month or so lead to the development of a gastric ulcer? The patient h...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, stress can increase gastric acid secretion, leading to a higher incidence of ulcers. The formation of gastric ulcers is related to the excessive secretion of gastric acid and pepsin, as well as a decreased resistance of the gastric mucosa, and is influenced by many factors...[Read More] Can Stress Cause Stomach Ulcers? Understanding the Connection and Risks