Managing Chronic Hepatitis B: Treatment Decisions and Health Concerns
After three years of taking Baraclude, issues related to hepatitis B treatment? Hello Dr. Lin, three years ago I had an acute phase of hepatitis B, with liver enzyme levels exceeding 2000. An ultrasound showed no tumors. After taking Baraclude for a month or two, my liver enzymes...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. For patients with chronic hepatitis B who exhibit significant inflammation or high levels of viral replication, consideration should be given to pharmacological treatment. Treatment options include antiviral medications or interferon. The interferon treatment regimen ...[Read More] Managing Chronic Hepatitis B: Treatment Decisions and Health Concerns
Persistent Cough for Months: When to Seek Medical Evaluation?
Coughing every month? Doctor, I have been coughing continuously for the past 3 to 4 months. I went to a general clinic and was told it was just a cold. However, I tend to cough for about a month each time. Do I need to get an X-ray or any other tests?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Persistent coughing over a long period can be caused by various factors including the common cold, chronic bronchitis, asthma, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is recommended to consult with a pulmonologist, general internist, or family medicine physician for...[Read More] Persistent Cough for Months: When to Seek Medical Evaluation?
Understanding Pain Above the Belly Button: Causes and Solutions
Pain above the navel? I woke up earlier and felt the urge to have a bowel movement, but I held it in. After that, I experienced pain in the area above my belly button and below my stomach. I ate a little, but the situation did not improve. After a while, when I tried to have a bo...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There is the stomach and intestines above the navel, with acute pain. It is necessary to see a doctor for consultation. You should develop good bowel habits, drink plenty of water, and eat more fruits and vegetables. Set a specific time each day to use the restroom, and ma...[Read More] Understanding Pain Above the Belly Button: Causes and Solutions
What Happens If Helicobacter Pylori Is Not Eradicated?
If Helicobacter pylori is not eradicated, it can lead to several complications, including chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and an increased risk of gastric cancer. Persistent infection may also contribute to the development of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT I was diagno...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Helicobacter pylori is associated with chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. There are many causes of gastric ulcers, and eradicating Helicobacter pylori can reduce the recurrence rate of ulcers. 2. A small number of individuals may have persistent Helic...[Read More] What Happens If Helicobacter Pylori Is Not Eradicated?
Understanding Persistent Bowel Urgency: A Guide for Patients
Constant urge to have a bowel movement throughout the day? I am a person with a disability and have been experiencing constipation for the past three years. I have seen doctors and undergone a colonoscopy, but each time the doctor only prescribes laxatives. While the medication h...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Constipation is a frustrating issue. If you have undergone a colonoscopy and no tumors were found, but you experience the urge to defecate and urinate at night, it is advisable to consult a urologist to check for any prostate issues. Medication may help improve the conditi...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Bowel Urgency: A Guide for Patients
Oral vs. Rectal: Which Chinese Medicine Cold Remedy Works Faster?
I'm sorry, but I need more context or specific content to translate. Please provide the Which method of administration for traditional Chinese medicine cold remedies is better or faster for absorption: oral or rectal administration? Which method do doctors recommend?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Wen, Hello! The advantages of drug absorption via the rectum primarily include the proximity of the lesion to the rectum, the ability to bypass the destructive effects of strong gastric acids, and the avoidance of hepatic metabolism that can degrade the drug's efficacy...[Read More] Oral vs. Rectal: Which Chinese Medicine Cold Remedy Works Faster?
Understanding Rapid Weight Loss and Digestive Issues: What Could Be Wrong?
Rapid weight loss, no matter how much I eat, I still lose weight..? My friend has recently been experiencing a strange condition where he has bowel movements half an hour after eating, sometimes going 1 to 2 times after a single meal. In just two weeks, he has lost weight from 53...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If there has been intentional weight loss or the use of medication, and there is a short-term weight decrease accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms, the causes may include gastrointestinal diseases, endocrine disorders, or psychological factors. It is recommended to fol...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Weight Loss and Digestive Issues: What Could Be Wrong?
Understanding Bile Duct Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms, and Care Tips
Cholangitis What causes inflammation of the bile ducts? What symptoms can occur? Is it always accompanied by a fever? Besides taking antibiotics and monitoring body temperature, what other precautions should be taken if inflammation occurs?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Bile duct obstruction, impaired bile flow, and bacterial proliferation in the bile ducts can lead to cholangitis. Obstruction of the bile ducts can be caused by gallstones, foreign bodies, parasites, tumors, external compression, or strictures. 2. Symptoms of cholan...[Read More] Understanding Bile Duct Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms, and Care Tips
Understanding Fetal Protein Levels in Hepatobiliary Health Management
Fetal protein Hello Doctor: I have been taking Baraclude for six months, but my fetal protein level has increased from 6.X to 8.89! Does this mean my condition is not well controlled? I will be returning to Taoyuan in July; can I schedule an appointment with you for consultation ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. The use of oral antiviral medications can improve liver function, liver enzyme levels, and reduce viral load. Reports indicate that taking Baraclude for 3 to 5 years can improve fibrosis. If the medication is taken for only six months, any improvement can be assessed ...[Read More] Understanding Fetal Protein Levels in Hepatobiliary Health Management
Why Can't I Gain Weight? Understanding Gastrointestinal Health Issues
No matter how much I eat, I can't gain weight? Hello, doctor. I am currently about 175 cm tall and weigh only 62 kg. I eat a lot, and I can gain about 1 to 2 kg, but after a few days, I immediately return to my original weight. I would like to ask if this indicates a gastroi...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The ability to eat without gaining weight is related to dietary habits, gastrointestinal function, psychological factors, work, stress, and exercise. You may consult general internal medicine, family medicine, gastroenterology, nutrition, or metabolism specialists. Wishing...[Read More] Why Can't I Gain Weight? Understanding Gastrointestinal Health Issues
How to Check for Parasites in Your Body: Symptoms and Testing Options
I would like to know if there are any parasites in my body? If you suspect that you may have a parasitic infection, it is advisable to visit a healthcare provider, specifically a gastroenterologist, who specializes in digestive system disorders. They can conduct a comprehensive e...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. If there are unidentified objects in the stool and you are concerned about parasites, you can visit a hospital and consult with a gastroenterologist, general internist, or family medicine physician to have your stool examined for the presence of eggs and parasites. 2. T...[Read More] How to Check for Parasites in Your Body: Symptoms and Testing Options
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Treatment Options
Blood in the stool? Hello, Doctor Lin: I would like to ask you about my previous issue of having blood in my stool. I went for an examination at the clinic, and the doctor mentioned that I have both internal and external hemorrhoids, which could be causing the occasional blood in...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure in the venous area of the anus. Generally, medication is used to alleviate symptoms. It is important to avoid prolonged sitting, engage in regular exercise, and consume a diet rich in fiber and fluids to facilitate smooth bowel ...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Treatment Options
Navigating Digestive Issues: Where to Start with Gastroenterology?
I don't know which specialty to start with? I have been experiencing various health issues lately and I'm unsure where to start. I would like to ask the doctors for a simple assessment of which problems should be prioritized for treatment. 1. I often feel like there i...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you have multiple health issues and are unsure which specialty to consult, you may start with general internal medicine or family medicine. Based on your description of gastrointestinal and rectal problems, it is advisable to see a gastroenterologist and a colorectal sp...[Read More] Navigating Digestive Issues: Where to Start with Gastroenterology?
Understanding Vomiting Blood and Difficulty Swallowing: A Gastrointestinal Concern
Difficulty swallowing after vomiting blood? Hello doctor, today I had dinner at a restaurant and only ate two plates of food. I'm not sure if I ate too quickly, but suddenly I felt bloated in my abdomen and had a tight sensation in my left chest, as if something was stuck in...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Esophageal foreign body vomiting may lead to esophagitis and esophageal tears with bleeding. It is recommended to avoid irritating foods, including tea, coffee, chocolate, and fried foods. Symptoms such as chest discomfort and belching may occur. Differential diagnoses inc...[Read More] Understanding Vomiting Blood and Difficulty Swallowing: A Gastrointestinal Concern
Persistent Pain Under Right Rib: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues?
Dull pain below the right rib cage? Hello Doctor, since last month, I have been experiencing pain under my left rib. It becomes uncomfortable when I sit, but standing is fine. I feel better when I wake up after sleeping. The first doctor took an X-ray, which showed no fractures o...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Pain under the left rib cage, left abdominal pain, pain under the right rib cage, and right abdominal pain for several days. It is recommended to visit a gastroenterologist for further examination. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan General Hospi...[Read More] Persistent Pain Under Right Rib: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues?
Understanding Frequent Diarrhea: When to Seek Medical Attention
My dad has diarrhea 7 to 8 times? My dad has been experiencing diarrhea multiple times a day recently. Sometimes, he feels the urge to go again right after finishing. The first bowel movement in the morning was relatively hard, but the later ones have been watery. I'm really...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Changes in bowel habits, such as having multiple bowel movements in a day, suggest that you should pay attention to your diet. It is advisable to avoid irritant foods, including betel nut, alcohol, and spicy foods. It is recommended to undergo stool screening, and if there...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Diarrhea: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Abnormal Blood and Urine Test Results in Liver Health
Regarding blood and urine test results? In the year 2012, a health check-up was conducted, and the results suggested the following follow-up: weight loss (44 kg/160 cm), low white blood cell count, positive urine protein, weakly positive urine ketones, positive urine bilirubin, e...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. For chronic hepatitis B carriers with abnormal liver function, regular follow-up is necessary. 2. If there are symptoms of jaundice, such as intermittent high indirect bilirubin, it may sometimes be necessary to check for hemolytic anemia, G6PD deficiency, and other con...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood and Urine Test Results in Liver Health
Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Dull pain in the left side of the abdomen? Hello, Dr. Lin. I have been experiencing a dull pain in the left side of my abdomen, approximately one hand's breadth to the left of my navel, just below the rib cage. This has been ongoing for about 2 to 3 months. About 2 months ag...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Left abdominal pain may have several possible causes, including esophageal and gastrointestinal diseases, organic issues such as inflammation or ulcers, and functional disorders like pancreatic, liver, or gallbladder diseases. Systemic conditions such as diabetes and vascu...[Read More] Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Anal Pain: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Anal pain? Since February, every time I have a bowel movement, my anus hurts intensely (like being cut with a knife). I have bowel movements daily, several times a day. Today, after finishing my bowel movement, I noticed a small amount of blood on the toilet paper when I wiped. W...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Blood in the stool and painful bowel movements may be caused by anal fissures or hemorrhoids. It is recommended to consult a colorectal specialist for examination and treatment. Best regards, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding Anal Pain: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Understanding Colorectal Cancer Risk in Younger Individuals: A Guide
Regarding the age of onset for colorectal cancer? Hello, my sister has recently been complaining about symptoms of colon cancer. However, I heard that colon cancer typically occurs in people around their 40s or 50s, and while there are cases in teenagers, that is usually due to f...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Colorectal cancer commonly occurs around the age of 50, but there has been a trend of increasing incidence in younger individuals. This is generally associated with polyp syndromes, familial inheritance, and poor dietary habits. It is important for younger individuals to d...[Read More] Understanding Colorectal Cancer Risk in Younger Individuals: A Guide