Calcium Sources: Milk vs. Soy Milk and Probiotics for Gut Health
Health supplements Hello, Doctor: I have a few questions I would like to ask you. During my military service, I was educated that bone density starts to decline around the age of 35, so it's important to supplement calcium by drinking more milk. However, with the current foo...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Drinking milk can supplement calcium, and the Department of Health recommends 1 to 2 cups daily; however, excessive milk consumption may lead to bone loss, so it is important to avoid overconsumption. 2. Soy milk falls under the category of legumes and fish, while mi...[Read More] Calcium Sources: Milk vs. Soy Milk and Probiotics for Gut Health
Understanding White Substance in Stool: Signs of Colitis?
The stool has a white liquid? Hello doctor, three weeks ago I experienced a severe episode of diarrhea, having 7 to 8 bowel movements in one day. During the last bowel movement, I noticed some blood in my stool. The amount of blood was not significant, but seeing it was quite ala...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: In cases of severe gastroenteritis, there may be blood and mucus in the stool. If stool tests show blood and mucus, or if symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloody stools, or weight loss are present, a colonoscopy may be arranged to check for the possibility of inf...[Read More] Understanding White Substance in Stool: Signs of Colitis?
White Objects in Stool: What You Need to Know About Your Digestive Health
White objects in stool? Hello: Recently, I noticed that after having a bowel movement, there were irregular white spots mixed in with the stool. Today, I found a long white strip about 10 centimeters in length on the surface. Could it be a worm? I haven't eaten any white foo...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Mucous epithelial sloughing can also be present in stool. If there is suspicion of parasites, a stool examination can be conducted to check for the presence of parasites. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan Hospit...[Read More] White Objects in Stool: What You Need to Know About Your Digestive Health
Understanding Nausea: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastrointestinal issues Hello, Dr. Lin. I have two questions: 1. What condition could cause a feeling of nausea upon waking up? 2. Recently, I also experience nausea when using the computer or scrolling on my phone.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There are many causes of nausea, including gastrointestinal diseases such as dyspepsia, gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease, gastric outlet obstruction, and intestinal obstruction. Additionally, acute hepatitis, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, and append...[Read More] Understanding Nausea: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Irregular Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Bowel irregularity and its conditions? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my bowel movements in recent years, which have not been very smooth and present three different situations. The first two situations are quite extreme. The first situation is diarrhea; the second situ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Irregular bowel movements, occasional diarrhea, and often little or no urge to defecate are commonly caused by irritable bowel syndrome or gastrointestinal dysfunction. It is important to maintain good hygiene habits, consume a clean diet with non-greasy foods, and reduce ...[Read More] Understanding Irregular Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Chronic Hepatitis B: Positive HBsAg and Anti-HBs Explained
Inquiry about Hepatitis B issues? Hello doctor, my situation is special. My HBsAg and Anti-HBs have both been positive for 4 years (yes, both are positive). HBeAg is negative and Anti-HBe is positive. HBV DNA is 0, indicating no viral load. I paid out of pocket to test for anothe...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is rare for patients with hepatitis B to test positive for both HBs Ag and HBs Ab (literature reports indicate 2.9% to 6.7%). A positive HBs Ag indicates an active infection, while a positive HBs Ab indicates the presence of antibodies. Generally, the presence of HBs Ab...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Hepatitis B: Positive HBsAg and Anti-HBs Explained
Understanding Changes in Stool Color and Consistency: When to Worry
Bowel movement status 1. Recently consuming blueberries and purple cabbage has resulted in darker stools. Is this a normal phenomenon? 2. Today, I also noticed a yellowish ring around the toilet bowl that appears oily, while the stool is deep brown. Is this normal? Please advis...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. The color of stool is related to diet; consuming dark-colored vegetables and fruits can result in darker green stool, while iron-rich foods can lead to black stool. Eating red dragon fruit, pomegranate, or cactus can cause the stool to appear red. 2. If there is oil in ...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool Color and Consistency: When to Worry
What to Do When Cystic Liver Infection Surgery Fails: A Guide
What should be done if there are no results after surgery and drainage for polycystic liver disease? Hello doctor, my mother is 72 years old. Two years ago, she underwent surgery for a bacterial infection in her liver cysts and had her gallbladder removed. She was hospitalized a ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. The elevated bilirubin levels can be caused by infections, liver issues, or bile duct obstructions. 2. The standard treatment for liver cyst infections involves drainage or aspiration combined with antibiotics, and sometimes the treatment duration may be extended. It...[Read More] What to Do When Cystic Liver Infection Surgery Fails: A Guide
Understanding Abnormal Motility: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Health
Could you please provide more context or specific information regarding dysmotility? Hello, doctor. I previously visited a gastroenterologist, and after auscultation, the doctor mentioned that I have abnormal peristaltic function and advised me to exercise more to improve it. Doe...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Abnormal peristaltic function can manifest as either rapid or slow movement. The primary distinction is made based on organic factors, where there are no structural abnormalities or lesions. For instance, some individuals who have undergone surgery may experience intestina...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Motility: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Health
Understanding Esophagitis: Is Acid Reflux Normal After Treatment?
Esophagitis issues? I would like to ask about my experience before and after undergoing an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Before the procedure, I didn't feel any acidity in my throat, but after the endoscopy, I was diagnosed with esophagitis and started taking Omezol Cap....
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: A strange feeling in the chest, a burning sensation, and a sour throat are symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The standard medical treatment involves the use of proton pump inhibitors, such as Omezol, which can suppress stomach acid and improve symptoms of...[Read More] Understanding Esophagitis: Is Acid Reflux Normal After Treatment?
Understanding Bloating: Is It Linked to Constipation?
Abdominal bloating issues? Hello, I usually experience constipation, often going to the bathroom only every 3 to 4 days. However, for the past 2 to 3 years, I sometimes feel a bloating pain in the upper abdomen while sleeping (around the sides of the lower ribs or in the stomach ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There are many causes of abdominal bloating, including gastrointestinal dysfunction, poor gastric emptying, and constipation, which can lead to bloating. Additionally, urinary difficulties and intra-abdominal infections can also cause bloating. Wishing you peace and health...[Read More] Understanding Bloating: Is It Linked to Constipation?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Advice
Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology Medical Consultation 1. Symptoms (Location, Description): The following includes two blood test reports and symptom descriptions. (1) Blood test report from Taichung Blood Donation Center on March 10, 2012: Cholesterol level was 237 mg/dL. (2) B...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. The blood test report shows a cholesterol level of 266, indicating high blood lipids. It is recommended to control your diet, exercise, and monitor your condition. Prolonged high blood lipids can lead to cardiovascular diseases, fatty liver, and liver abnormalities, w...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Dr. Lin, I have some gastrointestinal issues I would like to ask about. On April 20, 21, and 22, whatever I ate caused diarrhea, which was watery. At night, I felt very uncomfortable in my stomach, and afterwards, I couldn't have a bowel movemen...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you are experiencing diarrhea with watery stools and irregular bowel movements, it may be related to gastroenteritis, which can be associated with the food you consume, your water intake, and possible infections. It is advisable to review your diet, ensuring it is balan...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Chest Pain and Swallowing Difficulties: GERD or More?
Gastroesophageal reflux, dysphagia, chest pain? Hello, doctor. Recently, I read an article and realized that I might have similar symptoms, such as chest pain and a sensation of something being stuck in my chest. It feels strange, and when I eat toast, I often feel like it's...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Esophageal foreign body, esophageal erosion, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) all have similar symptoms. It is advised to pay attention to dietary habits, avoid eating too quickly, and limit the intake of irritant foods such as spicy, overly sweet, or overly acid...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Swallowing Difficulties: GERD or More?
Understanding Blood in Stool: Should Young Adults Worry About Colon Cancer?
Blood in the stool raises concerns about colorectal cancer? Hello doctor, I just turned 18 this year. Recently, I experienced constipation, where I had to strain a lot and wait a long time to have a bowel movement. However, the constipation symptoms disappeared after two weeks. B...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Possible causes of blood in the stool commonly include hemorrhoidal bleeding and anal fissures. Other causes may include colitis, proctitis, colorectal polyps, diverticulosis, ulcers, and colorectal cancer. It is important to pay attention to diet, drink plenty of water, c...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Should Young Adults Worry About Colon Cancer?
Post-Gastroenteritis Concerns: Managing Bloating and Nausea
Follow-up questions regarding gastroenteritis? Hello Doctor: Two days ago, I experienced gastroenteritis with vomiting and diarrhea, starting with vomiting and later having diarrhea. I vomited until bile came out and had a mild fever. I then went to the hospital and received two ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The symptoms of gastroenteritis include vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and fever. Gastroenteritis may be caused by poor dietary practices, viral infections, or bacterial infections. The typical duration of gastroenteritis is 3 to 7 days, varying from...[Read More] Post-Gastroenteritis Concerns: Managing Bloating and Nausea
Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Concerns for Young Adults
Abdominal bloating, feeling unusual? I am a 22-year-old male. From late December to late January, I injured my foot and had a cast on. I had it removed at the end of January. Aside from walking to and from class, I mostly sat down during that time. At home, I would sit after meal...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Bowel habits and stool characteristics are related to gastroenteritis, dietary habits, and medications. 2. In young individuals, abdominal bloating and changes in bowel habits are mostly associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and gastrointestinal dysfunction. Po...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Concerns for Young Adults
Managing Liver Health: Addressing Fatty Liver and Cholesterol Concerns
Dumbbell body examination Hello, I have been a carrier of hepatitis C for a long time, and I have not undergone treatment due to concerns about the side effects. My AST levels are normal, and my ALT levels are mostly below 60. However, I have fatty liver and high cholesterol. I g...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Fatty liver and high cholesterol require long-term dietary weight control and exercise to see results. The use of cholesterol-lowering medications must be evaluated before use. 2. Prolonged fasting can lead to the production of ketones. 3. For chronic hepatitis C and ab...[Read More] Managing Liver Health: Addressing Fatty Liver and Cholesterol Concerns
Should You See a Doctor After Swallowing a Foreign Object?
Should I see a doctor if I accidentally swallowed a foreign object, or will it pass on its own? Hello doctor, I accidentally swallowed a piece of plastic (about two-thirds the size of a one-dollar coin). I feel fine at the moment, but do I need to see a doctor, or will it pass na...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Most cases of foreign body ingestion, if the gastrointestinal tract is structurally and functionally normal, will result in the expulsion of the ingested object. However, it is important to consider the type of foreign body ingested, such as fish bones or toothpicks, as th...[Read More] Should You See a Doctor After Swallowing a Foreign Object?
Understanding Healing Time and Care After Hemorrhoid Surgery
Postoperative Wound Healing after Hemorrhoid Surgery Hello, last Friday (February 7th), I had a minor procedure in the clinic to drain a blood clot from an external hemorrhoid. For the past few days, I experienced pain in the anal area, making it difficult to walk normally. Since...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: After hemorrhoid surgery, please pay attention to the following: 1. Diet: Follow a low-residue diet, drink plenty of water, and avoid irritating foods such as tobacco, alcohol, and spicy foods. Limit foods that cause bloating. 2. Take warm sitz baths for 10 minutes at a ti...[Read More] Understanding Healing Time and Care After Hemorrhoid Surgery