Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
The entire abdomen feels off? About two weeks ago (on June 24), I experienced a dull pain in my left abdomen that lasted for approximately 20 minutes and then subsided. However, after this symptom resolved, I began to feel tightness in my lower back on both sides, with the left s...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You have abdominal pain, pain on both sides of the lower back, occasional diarrhea with changes in stool color. X-rays show no bowel obstruction, and urinalysis is normal. Differential diagnoses for the right lower abdominal pain include gastroenteritis, colitis, appendici...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Blood-Streaked Mucus in Stool: When to Seek Further Testing
Mucus in stool with blood streaks? Hello Doctor: I have a history of hemorrhoids and occasionally notice white mucus. In March, I observed pink streaks of blood after wiping following a bowel movement. A colonoscopy was performed, and the results were normal, indicating that ther...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The presence of mucus with blood in the stool can be commonly caused by conditions such as colitis, proctitis, anal fissures, hemorrhoids, chronic constipation, or mucosal injury due to the use of laxatives. If this occurs frequently, it is advisable to undergo a rectal an...[Read More] Understanding Blood-Streaked Mucus in Stool: When to Seek Further Testing
Understanding Abdominal Bloating and Pain: Causes and Solutions
Lower abdominal bloating and pain? Since July 3rd, I have been experiencing persistent abdominal bloating and pain, along with alternating constipation and diarrhea. I have seen a doctor and initially felt better, but after finishing the medication, the pain returned. I feel bloa...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You frequently experience abdominal pain, alternating between constipation and diarrhea, with a burning sensation when hungry. Common causes include gastroenteritis. It is recommended to pay attention to dietary hygiene and maintain a mild diet. Continue with outpatient fo...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Bloating and Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Abdominal Fascia Distortion: When to Seek Medical Help
Abdominal membrane distortion sensation? If you are experiencing long-term sensations of twisted fascia in the abdomen, compressing the thoracic cavity and pulling up to the oral cavity and extending to the cerebral cortex, you should consider consulting a specialist in gastroent...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the sensation of twisting in the abdominal lining, along with referred pain, suggests that you may want to consult with an internist, family medicine physician, or gastroenterologist to assess for any organic issues. It is recommended to have an in-person consultation, as ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Fascia Distortion: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Hepatitis B: Treatment Resistance and Monitoring
Recent hepatitis B screening? Hello Dr. Lin, I am a carrier of Hepatitis B. I have been on treatment with ETV (entecavir) for three years. In December and June of last year, my viral load was undetectable, but this June, the viral load was measured at 28. However, the E antigen, ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1) Hepcludex is used for chronic hepatitis B, and the chance of developing drug resistance is very low. 2) GPT: 49 indicates elevated liver enzymes; besides hepatitis B, other possible causes such as medications, infections, or non-compliance with medication should be considered....[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Treatment Resistance and Monitoring
Changes in Bowel Movements: Understanding Your Digestive Health Concerns
Changes in bowel habits Hello Doctor: In the past week, my bowel movements have changed from being formed to a more mushy consistency, with a noticeable increase in water content, though not to the extent of diarrhea. For the last two days, I've experienced occasional mild a...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Bowel movements are related to the food consumed and the condition of the intestines, such as in cases of gastroenteritis. It is generally recommended to maintain adequate hydration and consume clean, non-greasy foods. The color of the stool is associated with the food intake, wi...[Read More] Changes in Bowel Movements: Understanding Your Digestive Health Concerns
Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: Causes and Solutions
Changes in bowel habits Hello Dr. Lin, In recent months, I have noticed a change in my bowel habits. At the beginning of each bowel movement, it goes relatively smoothly, but after passing some stool, I have to exert a lot of effort for a long time to pass a little more, result...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is recommended to increase fluid and fiber intake (not just from fruits), engage in moderate exercise, maintain a positive mood, and ensure adequate sleep. Given your age, you may be more susceptible to irritable bowel syndrome. However, if you experience long-term changes in ...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Pain Under the Right Rib: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Below the right rib cage? Hello, doctor. I have a concern regarding a lump located just below my right rib cage, near the diaphragm. This lump often causes soreness, sharp pain, and a feeling of heaviness in that area, which sometimes radiates to my back. When I perform sit-ups o...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Pain beneath the right rib cage may be related to posture. There are nerves located beneath the right rib cage or in the intercostal spaces, and a common cause of pain in this area is muscular. Additionally, issues with the organs located beneath the right rib cage, such as the l...[Read More] Understanding Pain Under the Right Rib: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding GERD and Delayed Gastric Emptying: Symptoms and Solutions
Gastroesophageal reflux and digestive motility issues? Hello Doctor: After eating every day, I often experience belching and start to feel a bitter taste in my mouth 2-3 hours later. My gastroscopy showed no ulcers or tumors, and there is no Helicobacter pylori, but I do have gas...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1) General gastroscopy or upper gastrointestinal imaging can determine whether the cardia is relaxed, if there is a hiatal hernia, whether there is esophageal dilation affecting the pylorus, if there are any ulcers, and if there is deformation of the duodenal bulb that impacts ga...[Read More] Understanding GERD and Delayed Gastric Emptying: Symptoms and Solutions
Understanding Sudden Hunger and Digestive Issues: When to Seek Help
Gastrointestinal issues Actually, I haven't really noticed if there is a pattern to these symptoms, but I find it strange that sometimes I go from not feeling hungry at all one moment to suddenly feeling extremely hungry the next moment. I'm so hungry that I need to eat...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Frequent hunger that is relieved after eating, abdominal pain that improves after bowel movements, and susceptibility to bloating may indicate irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is recommended to pay attention to dietary habits, maintain regular meal times, avoid overly sweet and...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Hunger and Digestive Issues: When to Seek Help
Daily Diarrhea with White Mucus: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Daily diarrhea with white mucus? Hello, I have been experiencing abdominal pain every morning upon waking up, and I have been passing poorly formed stools, sometimes with white mucus. This has been ongoing for about two weeks, with daily bowel movements, occasionally twice a day....
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Abdominal pain, unformed stools, and changes in stool consistency are commonly caused by conditions such as enteritis, dyspepsia, and irritable bowel syndrome. If symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to seek medical attention.[Read More] Daily Diarrhea with White Mucus: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Understanding Bowel Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Bowel issues Hello, doctor. Recently, my bowel habits have changed over the past three months, affecting my daily routine. However, the doctors I have seen have not been able to identify any results, and I am considering whether or not to undergo further testing. Back in February...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Changes in bowel habits, morning bloating, and alterations in the nature and shape of stools can be common signs of conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, especially considering your age. If symptoms persist, such as blood in the stool, frequent urges to have a bowel moveme...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Understanding Soft, Pinkish Stool: Causes and Concerns
The stool is soft and slightly loose, with a faint pinkish hue on the surface? On the afternoon of May 20th, I experienced cramping abdominal pain and had a bowel movement. It was relatively easy, but the stool was somewhat loose, resembling diarrhea. I noticed a faint pinkish co...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Loose stools containing pinkish or flesh-colored substances, but without any blood upon wiping, may indicate digestive issues. It could be undigested food or fiber. If there are frequent occurrences of blood-like substances, it may be difficult to distinguish the cause. A stool t...[Read More] Understanding Soft, Pinkish Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Digestive Issues: Food Residue in Stool Explained
I would like to consult a doctor about bowel movement issues? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have noticed that during bowel movements, regardless of whether I have diarrhea, there are always remnants of food in its original form. However, I do not experience any significant abdominal ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Some fibers are not digestible and absorb water in the intestines to form stool for excretion. This is why food residues can be observed.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Food Residue in Stool Explained
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: From GERD to Polyps and IBS
Gastroenterology and Hepatology I have been experiencing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for a long time, but in early April, I had severe gastrointestinal discomfort with alternating diarrhea and constipation. The diarrhea consisted of loose stools that felt u...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
There are many causes of abdominal pain and bloating. Discomfort may occur after undergoing endoscopic examinations due to the introduction of air for inspection. However, after completing gastroscopy and colonoscopy, one can feel more reassured as there are no major diseases det...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: From GERD to Polyps and IBS
Colorectal Polyp Follow-Up: How Often Should You Get Screened?
Colon polyp surveillance issues? I am 27 years old and experienced abdominal pain for two weeks in January 2017, which led to hospitalization and a recommendation for a colonoscopy. During the colonoscopy, a 1 cm polyp was found and removed, but I forgot the type of polyp. The do...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. Colorectal polyps are primarily classified into hyperplastic polyps and adenomatous polyps. Most hyperplastic polyps do not undergo malignant transformation. Tubular adenomas, villous adenomas, and serrated adenomas have a higher risk of carcinogenesis, and early removal can r...[Read More] Colorectal Polyp Follow-Up: How Often Should You Get Screened?
Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Abdominal discomfort with abnormal sensations in the abdomen? I have been experiencing these symptoms for a year. I often feel bloated in my abdomen and have a constant urge to have a bowel movement. Recently, the symptoms have worsened, and I feel discomfort in my abdomen and re...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Constipation, bloating, and mood disturbances that slightly improve after a bowel movement are common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is recommended to increase fiber intake and hydration, in addition to consuming fruits and yogurt, to help form and ease bowel move...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Understanding Anal Skin Lesions: When to See a Gastroenterologist or OB-GYN
Foreign body in the anus Recently, I have noticed a bump near the anus that resembles an acne pimple. It doesn’t hurt when I walk or use the restroom, but every time I wipe after using the toilet, the bump gets irritated and bleeds. Could this be hemorrhoids? It appeared after I ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. Hemorrhoids are varicosities of the venous blood vessels that become engorged. Constipation or straining during bowel movements can lead to bleeding or prolapse in severe cases. 2. The skin around the anus can also develop acne. 3. Consultations can be made with proctology...[Read More] Understanding Anal Skin Lesions: When to See a Gastroenterologist or OB-GYN
Understanding Rectal Foreign Bodies: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Rectal foreign body Hello, I usually experience constipation, but one day I had severe abdominal pain that led to diarrhea. The first time, there were no significant symptoms. The second time, I felt the urge but could only pass a small amount of watery stool. After a third attem...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Rectal foreign bodies may be associated with hemorrhoids. Straining during bowel movements can easily lead to hemorrhoids, which may not necessarily be painful. Hemorrhoids are classified by severity: first degree involves bleeding without prolapse, second degree involves prolaps...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Foreign Bodies: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Is It Hemorrhoids? Understanding Anal Pain and Red Bumps
Rectal foreign body After having a bowel movement, a red lump appears at the anal opening, accompanied by slight pain. Could this be hemorrhoids?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hemorrhoids are caused by pressure on the blood vessels in the anal area, which can lead to redness. Some may bleed, while others may protrude. Internal hemorrhoids are not sensitive to pain, whereas external hemorrhoids can be painful when they bleed or rupture.[Read More] Is It Hemorrhoids? Understanding Anal Pain and Red Bumps