Managing Uncomfortable Stomach Sensations After Tonsillitis Treatment
Stomach discomfort? Three weeks ago, I started taking medication for a tonsillar abscess. Since I began taking the medication, my stomach has been feeling strange. I often experience discomfort similar to hunger, even though I eat regularly and not in large amounts. What should I...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Anti-inflammatory and pain-relief medications can sometimes damage the gastrointestinal mucosa or alter gastrointestinal function, and they may also harm individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions such as gastritis or peptic ulcers. It is advisable to pay at...[Read More] Managing Uncomfortable Stomach Sensations After Tonsillitis Treatment
Understanding Pink Blood During Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Occasional pink blood upon wiping? Hello, doctor. Recently, my bowel movements have been harder and more pellet-like. I’ve researched and believe this is classified as constipation, right? I usually eat a lot of vegetables, and my water and beverage intake is about the same. Howe...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Common causes of rectal bleeding include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, enteritis, polyps, and tumors. It is advisable to consume plenty of fruits and vegetables and to develop good bowel habits. Probiotics can help with gut health and digestion. If there is blood during wipi...[Read More] Understanding Pink Blood During Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Sticky Stool: Causes, Dietary Changes, and Testing Options
Sticky stools? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've noticed that my stool sometimes sticks to the toilet, and I have to use a handheld shower to rinse it away. What could be the problem? How should I adjust my diet? Additionally, I often experience some constipation at the beginnin...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. The presence of mucus in the stool may be related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can involve symptoms such as constipation, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. It may also be associated with dyspepsia and colorectal cancer. It is recommended to maintain food hygie...[Read More] Understanding Sticky Stool: Causes, Dietary Changes, and Testing Options
Understanding Complications in Liver Cancer Patients: A Case Study
Grandma has liver cancer and was admitted to the intensive care unit due to a urinary tract infection? Hello! My grandmother was diagnosed with stage II liver cancer at the end of June this year (she has a history of hepatitis C, diabetes <controlled with medication>, and h...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: My grandmother has diabetes and chronic hepatitis C, and after undergoing embolization treatment for liver cancer, if the liver function of chronic hepatitis patients deteriorates, possible manifestations include the onset or worsening of jaundice, low serum albumin levels...[Read More] Understanding Complications in Liver Cancer Patients: A Case Study
Managing Severe Stomach Bloating and Pain After Endoscopy
Abdominal distension with pain? Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I had an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at Taipei Medical University and received medication. However, for the past two to three days, I have been experiencing bloating and pain in my stomach, with intermittent sharp...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Stomach diseases do not improve quickly. It is recommended to pay attention to your diet, eat small amounts of light food, and take medications as directed by your physician. Improvement should occur gradually. If abdominal pain persists or if you experience fever or bleed...[Read More] Managing Severe Stomach Bloating and Pain After Endoscopy
Understanding Blood in Stool: Signs of Hemorrhoids or Serious Conditions?
Bowel issues? Doctor, I would like to ask about something. Recently, for the past few months, I have noticed that sometimes there are small traces of blood on the toilet paper after I have a bowel movement, and my anus hurts. I often feel discomfort in the anal area. I have been ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is recommended to schedule an examination with a colorectal or gastroenterology specialist to determine the cause of the rectal bleeding. Common causes of rectal bleeding include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, colorectal cancer, polyps, and inflammatory bowel disease. Recu...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Signs of Hemorrhoids or Serious Conditions?
Understanding Rising AFP Levels in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Hepatitis B carrier with an abnormal rise in AFP to 588? Hello Doctor: I am a carrier of hepatitis B. My current status is as follows: AST 23, ALT 28, AFP 583. I have undergone abdominal ultrasound, CT, and MRI, but the reason for the continuous increase in AFP remains unclear. M...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Elevated AFP levels are commonly caused by chronic hepatitis, acute hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Tumors that frequently secrete AFP include pancreatic tumors, gastric tumors, colorectal tumors, and bronchial tumors, as well as pregnancy in women and tes...[Read More] Understanding Rising AFP Levels in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Understanding the Necessity of Gastroscopy in Gastrointestinal Health
The necessity of gastroscopy? Doctor, thank you for your previous response. I would like to ask about the gastroscopy. The reason for undergoing a gastroscopy is that it is more convenient and allows for immediate treatment, but if I don't have the procedure, can I just take...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is performed to check for lesions, cancer, inflammation, ulcers, or gastroesophageal reflux disease in the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The duration of medication treatment varies, and sometimes testing for Helicobacter pylori is co...[Read More] Understanding the Necessity of Gastroscopy in Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Pain below the left rib cage? Hello Dr. Lin, I have experienced discomfort and pain under my left rib cage whenever I feel anxious or if my eating schedule is irregular. Sometimes the pain radiates and makes my entire abdomen feel uncomfortable. Recently, the frequency of this pa...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Pain under the left rib cage may involve areas such as the esophagus, stomach, intestines, pancreas, and left liver, but the likelihood of gastric pain is higher. Please pay attention to your diet, and if the pain persists, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Wishi...[Read More] Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Green Tea Effects and Dizziness Causes
Gastrointestinal diseases Hello Dr. Lin, could you please explain what causes discomfort and nausea after drinking green tea or other types of tea? Additionally, what could be the reason for dizziness caused by stomach discomfort?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Mr. Lin: Tea contains many chemical components, both beneficial and harmful, such as caffeine and antioxidants. Caffeine affects the nervous system, mental state, cardiovascular system, endocrine system, and gastrointestinal tract. In terms of the gastrointestinal tract, it...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Green Tea Effects and Dizziness Causes
Choosing the Right Specialist for Gallbladder Stone Surgery
Cholecystectomy (gallbladder surgery) Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you. I would like to ask: my family member previously underwent an abdominal ultrasound and a colonoscopy, and at that time, they consulted Dr. Zheng from the colorectal surgery department. Now, we have...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you have symptoms of gallstones, you may need to undergo cholecystectomy. You can schedule an appointment for evaluation with Dr. Tong Heng-Yu or Dr. Chou Chia-Cheng at our general surgery clinic. Wishing you good health, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Ministry of Health and Welfare...[Read More] Choosing the Right Specialist for Gallbladder Stone Surgery
Do Multiple Gastric Polyps Require Surgical Removal?
Is it necessary to remove multiple hyperplastic gastric polyps? Hello Dr. Lin, I recently had an endoscopy that revealed multiple small polyps, but my doctor only performed a biopsy. Is there a need to consult another doctor for surgical removal?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Whether gastric polyps need to be completely removed depends on the histological type, size, and location. Hyperplastic polyps are generally recommended for removal if they are larger than 2 cm, if they have a stalk, or if there has been a history of bleeding. Hyperplastic...[Read More] Do Multiple Gastric Polyps Require Surgical Removal?
Persistent Hiccups and Bloating: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Persistent hiccups? Hello Dr. Lin: Yesterday morning, I experienced some discomfort in my upper abdomen and severe bloating. I consulted a Western medicine doctor, but today I have been passing gas continuously, and the flatulence is quite noticeable. I also feel like there is so...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, bloating, belching, and flatulence are common gastrointestinal issues. Most of these are caused by gastrointestinal dysfunction. It is recommended to avoid foods and beverages that are likely to produce gas, as well as those that are irritating, fried, or spicy (such as ca...[Read More] Persistent Hiccups and Bloating: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Constipation: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Health
Constipation issues? Hello. I have recently experienced a decrease in stool volume and unformed stools for almost two weeks. I have since increased my intake of fruits, vegetables, and fluids, as well as enzymes, but the problem persists. What could this condition be, and how can...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. Maintaining good lifestyle habits is important. Increase fiber intake to 20-30 grams per day along with adequate hydration. Establish regular bowel habits and engage in moderate exercise consistently to improve bowel issues. 2. If stool volume is low and not well-formed, it is...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Health
Understanding Stool Color Changes: What Deep Yellow or Brown Means
Stool color Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a recent observation. I have noticed that the color of my stool has been a darker yellow, and sometimes a deep brown. Is this normal? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The color of stool is related to the food consumed; dark-colored vegetables and fruits that are high in iron can result in darker stool. If there are any concerns, a stool test can be conducted to check for the presence of blood. Wishing you good health, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan...[Read More] Understanding Stool Color Changes: What Deep Yellow or Brown Means
Understanding Gastrointestinal Distress and Breathing Issues: A Patient's Journey
Abdominal bloating and difficulty breathing? Hello, doctor: I have read many articles, but it seems that no one has the same experience as I do. Recently, I have seen many doctors, but my symptoms have not improved. I have been working night shifts for over two years, and one day...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. The typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) include heartburn and acid regurgitation. Atypical symptoms may include chest pain, a sensation of a lump in the throat, and asthma. 2. It is recommended to relax and not be overly anxious, while paying attention t...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Distress and Breathing Issues: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Concerns
Total bilirubin (T) slightly elevated issue? Hello Doctor, I recently visited a weight loss clinic where the doctor arranged for me to undergo blood tests and an abdominal ultrasound. The abdominal ultrasound showed normal results except for moderate to severe fatty liver, and th...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. There are many common causes of elevated total bilirubin, including hepatitis (alcoholic, viral, autoimmune, or drug-induced), hemolytic anemia, biliary diseases, infections, sepsis, malignancies, Gilbert's syndrome, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cho...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Abnormal Liver Enzymes: What You Need to Know
Abnormal liver function tests? Dear Dr. Lin, I hope this message finds you well. Recently, the company sent out the health check report for April, and I noticed some abnormalities in my liver function tests, which has caused me some concern. I would appreciate your assistance in...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Abnormal liver function tests, although not significantly elevated, require investigation to determine the cause and to monitor for chronic Hepatitis B or C. Common causes of liver function abnormalities include fatty liver, alcohol consumption, metabolic syndrome, weight gain, e...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Liver Enzymes: What You Need to Know
Morning Vomiting: When to Seek Emergency Care and Dietary Tips
Morning vomiting? Hello, Dr. Lin. I vomited this morning and have already seen a doctor and taken medication, but I'm still feeling unwell. What symptoms should prompt me to go to the emergency room? In the meantime, what light foods can I eat?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is advised to avoid dairy products, sweets, and sugary beverages for the next couple of days. You may consume plain rice or congee with light vegetables, while minimizing fats and avoiding spicy foods. If vomiting symptoms do not improve, and there are signs of dehydration, we...[Read More] Morning Vomiting: When to Seek Emergency Care and Dietary Tips
Understanding Gastroenteritis: Managing Abdominal Cramps and Diarrhea
Gastroenteritis with abdominal cramps? Hello Doctor: I started experiencing diarrhea on the morning of June 8th, having gone to the bathroom six times. I took three anti-diarrheal pills and visited a doctor in the evening, following their medication instructions. That night, the ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: For gastroenteritis, diarrhea, and abdominal pain that prevents sleep, general symptomatic treatment includes monitoring hydration and electrolyte balance. It's advisable to avoid overeating and to maintain a light diet. If symptoms are severe, such as fever, persiste...[Read More] Understanding Gastroenteritis: Managing Abdominal Cramps and Diarrhea