Understanding Varied Stool Shapes: Causes and Concerns for Digestive Health
Bowel issues Hello doctor, I would like to ask if it's normal for my stool shape to vary every day. Sometimes it's in small pellets, sometimes it's normal, and other times it's short pieces stuck together. I also experience frequent flatulence and abdominal pa...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the condition of your bowel movements and dietary habits are related to the types of food you consume and the state of your intestines. A high intake of dietary fiber leads to more formed stools. If you experience difficulty in bowel movements, considering your age, the li...[Read More] Understanding Varied Stool Shapes: Causes and Concerns for Digestive Health
Understanding Anal Pain and Bleeding: When to Seek Medical Help
Anal pain accompanied by bright red blood? About a year ago, a doctor diagnosed me with external hemorrhoids, and I have been experiencing a few drops of blood each time I have a bowel movement. This morning, I felt some pain in my anus, and after having a bowel movement at noon,...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, anal pain accompanied by fresh blood is recommended for further evaluation by a colorectal specialist. Wishing you safety and health! Sincerely, Dr. Ming-Hui Lin, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Anal Pain and Bleeding: When to Seek Medical Help
Managing Liver Tumor Treatment: Patient Guidance and Medication Options
Liver issues? My father has undergone multiple treatments for liver tumors, including several embolizations and radiofrequency ablations. During a follow-up appointment, his alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level was still 21.9. When I asked the attending physician, they were unsure of th...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, after multiple treatments for liver cancer, the AFP level remains high. It is recommended to compare the current AFP value with previous values. Common causes of elevated AFP include chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Elevated AFP can still occur in case...[Read More] Managing Liver Tumor Treatment: Patient Guidance and Medication Options
Understanding White Mucus and Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Bowel issues? Doctor, I recently noticed that the front end of my stool has white mucus with a bit of blood, and it is soft. Sometimes I also have diarrhea. What could this be? I'm worried it might be a serious condition.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the presence of mucus and blood in your stool, along with frequent diarrhea, may commonly indicate colitis. Colitis can be caused by various factors including general gastroenteritis, poor dietary habits, viruses, bacteria, parasites, medications, immune dysfunction, and a...[Read More] Understanding White Mucus and Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Hepatitis B: What to Do After a Positive Surface Antigen Test
Could you please provide more details about the issue related to hepatitis B? Hello, I would like to ask about my situation. I tested negative for hepatitis B at the age of 32. Now, at 36, I came into contact with unknown blood on September 10 and got tested on September 13. Eigh...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The presence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) indicates an infection with Hepatitis B. It is important to monitor for any symptoms of hepatitis, as there is still a 1% risk of fulminant hepatitis in cases of acute Hepatitis B infection, so one should not be complacen...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: What to Do After a Positive Surface Antigen Test
Understanding Chronic Stomach Pain: Causes, Genetics, and When to Seek Help
Frequent stomach pain? Hello doctor, I have had stomach issues since I was young and often visit the doctor due to abdominal pain. Although I feel a bit better after using the restroom and taking medication, I still worry that there might be something wrong with my gastrointestin...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, In response to case 129009, 19-year-old Xiao Xi, who frequently experiences abdominal pain that improves after taking medication and having a bowel movement: general examinations are normal, and it may be a case of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Gastrointestinal issues ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Stomach Pain: Causes, Genetics, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Bowel Issues: What Your Stool Says About Your Health
Bowel movement issues In the past few days, I have been experiencing continuous bowel movements and have noticed that my stools are small and thin, roughly the diameter between my middle finger and ring finger. I also observed that when the stool is slightly larger, it feels cons...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Having a daily bowel movement is a good habit. The condition of bowel movements, including the thickness and consistency of the stool, is related to the state of the intestines and the food consumed. Adequate fiber and hydration help in forming well-shaped stools. Individu...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: What Your Stool Says About Your Health
Understanding Bowel Issues: Could It Be Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Bowel issues Hello doctor, for the past month or two, my bowel movements have been quite strange. Sometimes they are regular, but other times I experience constipation. I also have frequent flatulence and upper abdominal discomfort. My stool varies in color, sometimes appearing c...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I am experiencing irregular bowel movements, sometimes constipation, excessive flatulence, and abdominal pain. My stool is sometimes brown and occasionally contains mucus. This could be a sign of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can cause abnormal bowel habits; some i...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Could It Be Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Understanding Abnormal Stool Colors: When to Seek Medical Advice
Abnormal stool color? Hello Doctor: About a month ago, I noticed that my stool often had blood in it, and I experienced pain in my anus. However, after applying over-the-counter treatments for hemorrhoids and anal fissures, the bleeding stopped. Recently, I underwent a fecal occu...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The color of stool is related to the food consumed and the condition of the gastrointestinal tract. Foods rich in iron can result in darker stool, while consuming red dragon fruit, cactus, or hibiscus may lead to a reddish stool. Personally, I believe that hot dogs are unl...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Stool Colors: When to Seek Medical Advice
Managing GERD: Understanding Symptoms and Safe Exercises
Gastroesophageal reflux with a sensation of foreign body and feasible exercises? Hello Doctor: I have been diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and have been taking RANITIDINE 150MG for over a month. Although I no longer experience acid reflux symptoms, I still f...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has typical symptoms such as heartburn, chest burning, and acid regurgitation. In addition to medication, lifestyle modifications are also important, including smoking cessation, weight loss, and avoiding fatty foods. If there are aty...[Read More] Managing GERD: Understanding Symptoms and Safe Exercises
Can Gallstones Cause Underarm Pain and Back Discomfort?
Can gallstones cause a stabbing pain in the armpit or a connection to soreness in the right upper back? Can gallstones cause a stabbing pain in the armpit or soreness in the right back connected to the armpit? I have gallstones and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and I ha...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Gallstone pain typically occurs after meals, presenting as pain in the right upper abdomen. Sometimes, there may be referred pain extending to the right back and right shoulder. Pain may also be felt in the right axilla, accompanied by a linear mass, which could indicate e...[Read More] Can Gallstones Cause Underarm Pain and Back Discomfort?
Understanding Mild Lower Abdominal Pain After Eating: When to Seek Help
Mild pain in the lower abdomen below the navel? Why do I often experience slight abdominal pain and the urge to use the restroom after eating? Sometimes I feel a mild bloating and discomfort below the navel, and even after eating a small amount, I feel bloated. Should I consider ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a 28-year-old female experiences abdominal pain after eating, feels the urge to use the restroom, and has pain below the navel. She eats small amounts and is prone to bloating. It is recommended to pay attention to dietary habits, chew food thoroughly, avoid irritating foo...[Read More] Understanding Mild Lower Abdominal Pain After Eating: When to Seek Help
Understanding Bowel Issues: From Diarrhea to Stool Changes and Hemorrhoids
Bowel issues Hello doctor, I previously experienced diarrhea after taking traditional Chinese medicine, and I noticed some red in my stool, which I wasn't sure was blood. After stopping the herbal medicine, the diarrhea ceased. I went to see a doctor for an examination, and ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The possible reasons for red in the stool include diarrhea leading to mucosal damage and bleeding, colitis, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures. The consistency of the stool can vary, and its shape is related to the food consumed and the condition of the intestines. Increasing ...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: From Diarrhea to Stool Changes and Hemorrhoids
Understanding White Coating on Stool: What It Means for Your Health
Stool has a white appearance? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my recent bowel movement. I had two stools, and both were partially covered with a white substance. Additionally, there was a white, string-like substance that came out as well. Is there something wrong?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The presence of white material in your stool could be food residue, mucus, or sloughed-off epithelial cells. It is advisable to monitor for any signs of intestinal inflammation. Wishing you good health and safety! Sincerely, Dr. Ming-Hui Lin, Attending Physician, Departmen...[Read More] Understanding White Coating on Stool: What It Means for Your Health
Managing Abdominal Pain, Digestive Issues, and Back Discomfort After C-Section
Abdominal pain, stomach pain, lower back pain, bowel issues? Hello, Since my second cesarean delivery, I have been experiencing persistent lower back pain and stomach pain. I have also noticed that my bowel movements are often elongated in shape and accompanied by discharge (wh...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: After a cesarean section, women may experience lower back pain, stomach pain, thin stools, discharge, abdominal bloating, and pain in the lower left abdomen. Dietary habits are acceptable, and it is advised to avoid stimulating beverages. Post-cesarean adhesions are common...[Read More] Managing Abdominal Pain, Digestive Issues, and Back Discomfort After C-Section
Can I Drink Whey Protein If I'm Allergic to Protein Foods?
Protein digestion issues Hello doctor, I am currently 20 years old, 185 cm tall, and my weight has been consistently around 65 kg. I occasionally experience diarrhea and have a history of allergies. If I don't take antihistamines every day, I will have itching all over my bo...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is advisable to first determine what you are allergic to. Allergy testing can help with this. 2: What should you eat after exercising to build muscle? Since there are various types of protein, it is recommended to consult a nutritionist. Whey protein is a byproduct of t...[Read More] Can I Drink Whey Protein If I'm Allergic to Protein Foods?
Understanding Constipation and Blood in Stool: When to Seek Help
Constipation, bloody stools? Recently, I have been experiencing constipation when using the restroom, and my stool is brown. After sitting for a while, there is a reddish discharge, but there is no blood when wiping. I've also been under a lot of stress lately. Should I unde...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a 15-year-old with constipation and suspected blood in the stool—stool tests can be performed to check for bleeding or the presence of food substances (such as red dragon fruit, hibiscus, cactus pigments, etc.). Additionally, a rectal examination, including digital rectal ...[Read More] Understanding Constipation and Blood in Stool: When to Seek Help
Understanding Changes in Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns
Bowel issues Hello doctor, I've recently noticed that my stools have become thinner, sometimes with mucus, and the amount is quite small. I also experience some constipation and often feel my intestines moving, with an increase in flatulence. I've been staying up late, ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The stool has become thinner, less in quantity, and contains mucus. There is an increase in bowel motility and flatulence. These conditions may be related to diet, lifestyle, medications, or irritable bowel syndrome. It is recommended to ensure adequate sleep, proper hydra...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Loose Stools: When to Seek Gastrointestinal Advice
Bowel movement issues Doctor, I would like to ask about my bowel movements. They are loose and unformed, and I go to the bathroom twice a day without experiencing any abdominal pain. What adjustments should I consider?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You are experiencing loose, unformed stools twice a day without abdominal pain. A common cause could be irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Please be mindful of gastroenteritis and pay attention to dietary hygiene. Avoid greasy foods, and if you are lactose intolerant, consumi...[Read More] Understanding Loose Stools: When to Seek Gastrointestinal Advice
Abdominal Pain When Pressing: Is It Normal or a Cause for Concern?
Pressing on the lower abdomen causes pain? I have been experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort recently. This morning, I had a bowel movement that took a long time and required a lot of effort, although the stool appeared normal. However, I have a question: I feel pain in my low...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: In cases of lower abdominal pain in women, in addition to gastrointestinal issues, it is important to consider potential problems related to the urinary tract or gynecological conditions. Wishing you peace and good health! Dr. Ming-Hui Lin, Attending Physician, Gastroenter...[Read More] Abdominal Pain When Pressing: Is It Normal or a Cause for Concern?