Understanding the Rapid Growth of a Spleen Cyst: What You Need to Know
Enlargement of splenic cysts? In 2008, a company health check revealed a splenic cyst approximately 1 cm in size. Subsequent follow-up ultrasounds were performed every six months. By June 2009, the cyst had grown to 1.6 cm, by June 2010 to 2.6 cm, and just a few days ago in June ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: In my personal opinion, there are changes in the splenic cyst, and I recommend further examination such as a CT scan. It is necessary to differentiate between a simple cyst or a cystic tumor, which requires follow-up and treatment. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. L...[Read More] Understanding the Rapid Growth of a Spleen Cyst: What You Need to Know
Understanding Constipation and Its Link to Colon Health
Regarding issues of fecal retention and constipation? Hello, I would like to ask about my situation. During my junior high and high school years, I mainly ate fast food, rarely consumed vegetables, and exercised little, which led to long-term constipation. I usually have a bowel ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Regarding your question, here are the responses: (1) Chronic constipation and excessive straining during bowel movements can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal prolapse, and intestinal obstruction. (2) The causes of constipation and irregular bowel movements includ...[Read More] Understanding Constipation and Its Link to Colon Health
How to Identify and Address Your Constipation Concerns?
How can one distinguish if they have constipation? I have been experiencing symptoms similar to constipation in the past few days. The amount I eat and the amount I pass have noticeably decreased. When I do have a bowel movement, it’s not hard stools; rather, they are somewhat so...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The definition of constipation includes: (1) decreased frequency of bowel movements (less than three times a week), passing hard stools, straining during defecation, feeling of incomplete evacuation, and a sensation of obstruction at the anal opening, all of which may indi...[Read More] How to Identify and Address Your Constipation Concerns?
Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Dietary Habits vs. Stress Factors
Stomach Hello, the doctor mentioned that I have an ulcer after my gastroscopy. I would like to ask if the cause of the ulcer could be due to irregular eating habits, or is it more likely due to stress? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The causes of peptic ulcers are numerous, including: 1. The causes of peptic ulcers include Helicobacter pylori infection, excessive gastric acid, medication-induced damage to the gastric mucosa, bile reflux, smoking and alcohol consumption, stress, and the loss of protect...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Dietary Habits vs. Stress Factors
Effective Solutions for Severe Constipation: Tips and Advice
What to do about severe constipation? Doctor, my constipation has become more severe recently. It's only once a week! (I can only push out a little bit!) I've also been taking Wakamoto, but it hasn't noticeably improved my constipation. I've been under a lot o...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: For severe constipation, it is recommended to adjust your diet by increasing fluid intake, consuming more fiber, and possibly supplementing with probiotics. It's also important to relax and develop good bowel habits, along with engaging in moderate exercise. If consti...[Read More] Effective Solutions for Severe Constipation: Tips and Advice
Understanding Weight Loss in Diabetes: Insights from Gastroenterology
Chronic diseases Hello, Dr. Lin. Why does diabetes cause significant weight loss?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, high blood sugar causes sugar to be lost through urine, and the body is unable to utilize calories, resulting in weight loss. Best wishes, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss in Diabetes: Insights from Gastroenterology
Persistent Hiccups: Understanding Causes and Seeking Solutions
Persistent hiccups? Hello, I am a high school sophomore. I have noticed that ever since I had a fever due to an illness, I have been experiencing persistent burping. It's not uncontrollable burping; rather, it feels like my stomach is filled with air, and I have to intention...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Some people may experience gastrointestinal motility issues after catching a cold, leading to symptoms such as belching, which seems to be bothering you. It is recommended to maintain good habits, eat a balanced diet, and have regular meal times. Avoid eating too quickly, ...[Read More] Persistent Hiccups: Understanding Causes and Seeking Solutions
Switching Hepatitis B Monitoring: What You Need to Know
Regular monitoring for hepatitis B carriers? I have been regularly undergoing hepatitis B carrier check-ups and follow-ups at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Each time, the process involves first registering for an outpatient visit, then having blood drawn and an ultrasound perform...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: (1) Hepatitis B carriers need to be monitored regularly, approximately every 6 months. It is better to have reference data, such as HBsAg, HBeAg, anti-HBe, Anti-HCV, and the most recent results for GOT, GPT, AFP, along with an abdominal ultrasound report and any relevant m...[Read More] Switching Hepatitis B Monitoring: What You Need to Know
Should I Treat High Viral Load with Medication Despite Allergies?
Hepatitis B e antigen positive with a viral load of 800 million. GTP and GOT levels are normal. Should treatment be initiated? I am 40 years old this year and I am positive for hepatitis B e-antigen with a viral load of 800 million. My serum e-antigen level is 1452, and my GTP (G...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: (1) The e antigen is positive, liver function tests are normal, and the viral load is high. It is recommended to consider the degree of liver fibrosis in the patient and whether there is cirrhosis. Continued monitoring is advised, and understanding the effects of pharmacol...[Read More] Should I Treat High Viral Load with Medication Despite Allergies?
Unexplained Lump Above Belly Button: What You Need to Know
There is a lump between the chest and the abdomen? Recently, I suddenly discovered a lump about 13 centimeters above my navel that feels similar to a small egg. I'm not sure if it has been there before. It doesn't hurt when I press on it. Could you please tell me what t...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, to determine whether the issue is related to a subcutaneous mass or protrusion of the costal cartilage, it is recommended to consult a general internist or family medicine physician. Wishing you good health. Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Unexplained Lump Above Belly Button: What You Need to Know
Can Hepatitis B Carriers Naturally Recover? Insights for Expecting Mothers
Can a hepatitis B carrier heal on their own? I am a 37-year-old pregnant woman who previously did not have a regular check-up routine. During my university entrance examination at the age of 18, I was clearly tested positive for being a carrier of hepatitis B. However, in the rec...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. It is possible to check for HBsAb, the hepatitis B antibody. A small number of hepatitis B infected individuals and carriers may produce hepatitis B antibodies indicating improvement, while some may have undetectable levels of HBsAg due to very low quantities. 2. Cu...[Read More] Can Hepatitis B Carriers Naturally Recover? Insights for Expecting Mothers
Understanding Painful Bowel Movements and Rectal Bleeding: Causes and Remedies
Pain and bleeding during bowel movements? Hello Doctor, my situation is that I have a bowel movement about every two to three days, and my stools are usually quite hard, which causes pain. When I wipe with toilet paper, there is bright red blood, about a quarter of a piece of toi...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. Pain during bowel movements accompanied by a small amount of blood is commonly diagnosed as anal fissure, but differential diagnoses include hemorrhoids, proctitis, polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, and tumors. 2. Treatment for anal fissures is recommended to include a hig...[Read More] Understanding Painful Bowel Movements and Rectal Bleeding: Causes and Remedies
Small Black Dots on Toilet Paper: What Could It Mean?
I noticed small black spots on the toilet paper when I wipe after having a bowel movement? I recently noticed small black dots on the toilet paper after wiping myself, just one or two at a time. I've seen these small black dots several times over the past few days, and it ta...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the presence of small black dots in your stool may be related to food. If you are concerned, you can have a stool examination to check for any foreign substances, occult blood, and parasites. Wishing you good health, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health...[Read More] Small Black Dots on Toilet Paper: What Could It Mean?
Long-Term Use of Omelon for Stomach Issues: Risks and Concerns
Long-term use of gastric protective medications and issues related to gastric compartment syndrome? Hello Doctor: I have two questions. I have been taking Yongxin Omelon for gastric protection for six years. I originally had mild gastric and esophageal ulcers, but my last endosco...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is related to dietary habits, medication use, lower esophageal sphincter relaxation, esophageal structure, neurosecretion, and psychological factors. Medications can improve symptoms, but even after improvement, symptoms may still occur. It ...[Read More] Long-Term Use of Omelon for Stomach Issues: Risks and Concerns
Understanding White Mucus at the Tip of Your Stool: Causes and Concerns
The front part of the stool is white? Hello, I notice that there is a white mucus appearing at the tip of my stool every time I have a bowel movement. It only occurs at the tip, and I'm not sure what the cause might be. Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, mucus is generally a secretion found within lumens, such as sloughed epithelial cells. Normal stool may contain mucus, and if there is suspicion of abnormal stool, a stool examination can be conducted. Dr. Lin Ming-Hui from Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding White Mucus at the Tip of Your Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Your Concerns About Colon Cancer: Expert Advice
Colorectal cancer concerns? Hello Doctor, in recent years I have been having bowel movements about 2 to 3 times a day, usually concentrated in the morning after waking up or around dinner time. Often, after having a bowel movement in the morning, I will have a second one about an...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, having more frequent bowel movements is noted. A colonoscopy has shown normal results, but it is advised to pay attention if there is blood in the stool. It is recommended to increase fiber intake to help form well-structured stools. If there is blood in the stool, an anos...[Read More] Understanding Your Concerns About Colon Cancer: Expert Advice
Identifying Blood in Stool: Signs of Colon Cancer and Next Steps
Blood in the stool? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have noticed blood streaks on the surface of my stool. How can I differentiate the blood associated with colorectal cancer? Is it mixed in with the stool? Does the entire stool appear tomato-colored? Or is it just blood on the surfac...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Blood streaks or clots on the surface of stool indicate lower gastrointestinal bleeding, commonly associated with conditions affecting the rectum, anus, or sigmoid colon, such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, polyps, or tumors, with hemorrhoids being the most frequent c...[Read More] Identifying Blood in Stool: Signs of Colon Cancer and Next Steps
Understanding Constipation and Loose Stools: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Constipation with soft stools? I've been struggling with bowel issues for a long time, and I don't know when it started. During my menstrual period, my bowel movements become very infrequent for about a week, and it feels like my intestines hardly move at all. If I do h...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, experiencing constipation during menstruation while usually having soft stools can be common. Some individuals have sensitive gastrointestinal systems, leading to alternating constipation and diarrhea, especially under stress or with irregular eating habits, which can alte...[Read More] Understanding Constipation and Loose Stools: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Understanding Elevated r-GT Levels: Causes and Implications for Liver Health
Elevated r-GT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) levels? Today, I had a medical examination where my results showed GOT at 50, GPT at 59, total bilirubin at 1.54, uric acid at 7.4, and total cholesterol at 213, with all other values normal. I am also not a carrier of hepatitis B or C. ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, elevated r-GT and GPT levels indicate liver inflammation, with fatty liver being a common clinical cause. Fatty liver may be associated with alcohol consumption, obesity, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, or exposure to chemicals. It is recommended to address the underlying causes...[Read More] Understanding Elevated r-GT Levels: Causes and Implications for Liver Health
Is It Gastroenteritis? Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help
Is it a gastrointestinal flu? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing abdominal bloating (bloating above the abdomen) for the past three days, and it hasn't improved. I have no appetite and sometimes feel nauseous, having vomited a few times. I also have diarrhea (watery, wit...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, viral gastroenteritis, including some forms of viral infections, can present with symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. It is recommended to follow a bland diet, avoiding spicy foods, fried foods, dairy products, and sweets. It is also advised to increase fluid intake. I...[Read More] Is It Gastroenteritis? Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help