Understanding Right Upper Abdomen Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Right upper quadrant discomfort? Hello, I would like to ask about a persistent dull ache and occasional sharp pain in my right upper abdomen near the ribs. I have been a regular blood donor and do not have hepatitis B or C, but I do have fatty liver and am overweight. I had an ul...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Right upper quadrant pain can have differential diagnoses including musculoskeletal issues, pleural diseases, gastrointestinal problems, liver and biliary conditions, as well as kidney and adrenal gland disorders. Normal liver function tests generally refer to normal ...[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdomen Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Bloating: When to Seek Help for Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Gastrointestinal discomfort Every time I catch a cold, I experience bloating in my stomach even when I haven't eaten anything. My abdomen swells up completely, and from the side, it looks like the curve of a balloon. What could be the issue? Should I go to an outpatient clin...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a cold can sometimes be accompanied by gastroenteritis, which may present symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. During a cold, it is advisable to get plenty of rest and maintain a light diet. If gastrointestinal discomfort persists for an extende...[Read More] Understanding Bloating: When to Seek Help for Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Do Hepatitis B Vaccines Generate Antibodies in Existing HBV Patients?
Antibody Confusion If someone has hepatitis B, will they produce antibodies after receiving the hepatitis B vaccine? Thank you for your answer.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, patients with chronic hepatitis B have HBsAg: positive and HBsAb: negative, indicating that they are infected with hepatitis B but are unable to produce antibodies. Therefore, hepatitis B carriers will not produce antibodies after receiving the hepatitis B vaccine. Wishing...[Read More] Do Hepatitis B Vaccines Generate Antibodies in Existing HBV Patients?
Understanding Frequent Urges to Defecate: Causes and Concerns
Frequent urge to defecate? Hello Doctor: 1. Recently, for the past two or three days, I have frequently felt the urge to have a bowel movement, but it doesn't feel like I can't pass stool; it's just the urge. I have normal bowel movements every day. I've bee...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and increased intestinal sensitivity are related to emotions, with clinical manifestations that may include constipation, diarrhea, or alternating episodes of both. 2. The color of stool is related to the foods consumed; dark-colored v...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Urges to Defecate: Causes and Concerns
Is Forcing Bowel Movements Harmful? Insights from Gastroenterology
Bowel movement method Hello, Dr. Lin. Due to my gastrointestinal issues, I often feel the urge to have a bowel movement shortly after I have already gone. This has led me to spend a long time in the bathroom over the years, even when I feel that I haven't fully emptied my bo...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, long-term straining during bowel movements can lead to issues such as damage to the anal sphincter, hemorrhoids, and diverticula. It is recommended to develop good bowel habits, ensure adequate hydration, increase fiber intake, and engage in moderate exercise. Wishing you ...[Read More] Is Forcing Bowel Movements Harmful? Insights from Gastroenterology
Understanding Leaky Gut Syndrome: Tests and Treatment Options
Leaky gut syndrome What tests are needed for leaky gut syndrome? What are the treatment options?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, our intestines have an immune system, a nervous system that regulates physiological functions, and an endocrine system that secretes hormones, all of which influence gut health. Leaky gut syndrome is not a term exclusive to gastroenterology; it refers to diseases caused by...[Read More] Understanding Leaky Gut Syndrome: Tests and Treatment Options
Understanding Persistent Burping: Gastrointestinal Issues and Solutions
Persistent hiccups? Hello Doctor: Around June, I went to a buffet and fell asleep right after returning home. Later, I experienced a bitter taste in my mouth, which I suspect was due to acid reflux, along with gas (not belching, but a feeling of gas buildup). I bought over-the-co...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I have been experiencing persistent abdominal discomfort, overeating, frequent belching, and discomfort in the sternum for a certain period of time. These symptoms suggest dyspepsia, but it is important to rule out conditions such as tumors, gastrointestinal ulcers, and ga...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Burping: Gastrointestinal Issues and Solutions
Understanding Side Effects and Treatment for Hemorrhoids and Bowel Issues
Are there any side effects? Hello Dr. Lin, I have had irregular bowel habits for a long time, experiencing both diarrhea and constipation. I have also had instances of rectal bleeding after bowel movements, but two days ago, the amount of bleeding increased. Additionally, my stoo...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. The medications for hemorrhoids should provide pain relief, promote the healing of skin wounds, and cause vasoconstriction to stop bleeding. If bleeding or pain persists, further treatment is necessary. 2. Suppositories are primarily absorbed through the rectum, and ...[Read More] Understanding Side Effects and Treatment for Hemorrhoids and Bowel Issues
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes, Concerns, and Next Steps
The issue of rectal bleeding? I previously visited the hospital due to bowel issues, experiencing pain during defecation and blood in my stool. The doctor suggested it might be hemorrhoids or anal fissures and prescribed an ointment and a stool softener, which improved my conditi...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if you are experiencing recurrent rectal bleeding during bowel movements and are concerned about the presence of blood in your stool, it is advisable to visit a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist for an examination to determine the cause. Wishing you good health. S...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes, Concerns, and Next Steps
Understanding Bitter Taste and Digestive Issues from Long-term Medication
Eating food tastes bitter? I have been taking medication for over a month, and I have noticed that food tastes bitter and is difficult to swallow. Sometimes I experience bloating, and I often have to eat very flavorful foods to mask the bitterness, but the bitter taste returns af...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, experiencing a bitter taste when eating may be due to several reasons, including the medication itself causing bitterness, or sometimes due to bile reflux or acid reflux. It is important to know which medication you are taking. When taking medication, be sure to drink wate...[Read More] Understanding Bitter Taste and Digestive Issues from Long-term Medication
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Is it blood in the stool? Hello, I am a senior high school student. Recently, I have been staying up late, and today while having a bowel movement, I unexpectedly noticed some bright red blood, but it was a small amount. Since I have never experienced anything like this before, I...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, common causes of blood in the stool include anal fissures, skin tears around the anus, hemorrhoids, and inflammatory bowel disease. It is recommended to maintain a regular routine, avoid spicy foods, and it is advisable to consult a colorectal surgeon. Wishing you good hea...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding the Connection Between Hepatitis B and Acne: Key Concerns
Hepatitis B and Acne Issues Hello Doctor, about a month ago, I was in the acute phase of hepatitis B, with liver enzyme levels exceeding 2000 and bilirubin levels around 9. The doctor said I am currently recovering well. During my follow-up visit two weeks ago, my liver enzyme le...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Ultrasound can be used to check for any abnormalities in the liver and gallbladder, as well as the presence of ascites. It is generally recommended to follow up every six months to a year for chronic hepatitis, and every three to six months for cirrhosis. The frequenc...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Hepatitis B and Acne: Key Concerns
Understanding Rapid Intestinal Motility: Causes and Solutions
I have been feeling that my intestines are moving too quickly these past few days? Hello, I would like to ask about my condition. Four days ago, after I started drinking yogurt in the morning, I noticed that my intestines have been moving very quickly. On the first day, I didn&#x...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, rapid intestinal peristalsis, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and sensitivity to food and lifestyle are related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and intestinal inflammation. Best regards, Dr. Ming-Hui Lin, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding Rapid Intestinal Motility: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Blood in Vomit: Causes and When to Seek Help
Vomiting with blood? Feeling bloated after eating too much at night and then inducing vomiting can be concerning, especially if you noticed blood in the vomit. The presence of blood, even if it was only in one instance, could indicate a potential issue such as irritation or damag...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, vomiting or severe vomiting, such as after excessive alcohol consumption, can cause injury to the gastric and esophageal mucosa, leading to bleeding. The most common injury is a tear at the esophagogastric junction, which is usually minor and can heal on its own. However, ...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Vomit: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Abdominal and Back Pain: A Guide to Gastrointestinal Issues
Abdominal pain and lower back pain? I'm sorry, doctor, but I don't have an email address and I'm wondering if I can use my MSN account instead. I have been experiencing symptoms for many years, and even though I used to have severe pain during my menstrual periods,...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, you are experiencing left abdominal pain, lower back pain, or abdominal pain that occurs whether you eat or not. You have undergone some examinations that showed no issues. It is recommended to follow up with a gastroenterology outpatient clinic, where the physician will c...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal and Back Pain: A Guide to Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Ulcers, Reflux, and Medication Options
excuse me? I am a patient with a gastric ulcer and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). After taking medication for three months, I have recently been experiencing a taste of medication from my throat to my esophagus. Could this be related to abnormal motility of the digestive...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. It may be related to gastroesophageal reflux. 2. Mosapride can promote gastrointestinal motility. 3. Low pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter can sometimes lead to the reflux of stomach contents. Certain external factors such as gastric distension, irritant fo...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Ulcers, Reflux, and Medication Options
Why Does Viral Load Increase After Successful Interferon Treatment for Hepatitis B?
Why does the viral load increase significantly after interferon treatment, even after the HBeAg becomes negative? Dear Dr. Lin, I am a carrier of hepatitis B with positive e-antigen (transmitted from my mother). I discovered in mid-2008 that my liver began to show signs of infla...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. In patients with hepatitis B, after six months of interferon treatment, the rate of e-antigen seroconversion is approximately 30%. The rate of HBV-DNA < 5 x 10^5 copies/ml and normal ALT levels is about 24%. The benefits of interferon treatment include no developme...[Read More] Why Does Viral Load Increase After Successful Interferon Treatment for Hepatitis B?
Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain: Symptoms and Causes
Regarding abdominal pain? Doctor, I have been experiencing abdominal pain for nearly a week. Initially, the pain was not severe, but in the past few days, I have been feeling intense pain upon waking, to the point where I cannot turn over. The pain is located in the upper right a...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the differential diagnoses for right upper abdominal pain include gastrointestinal inflammation, ulcers, or functional disorders, liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic diseases, pleuritis, and neuralgia. If the pain persists for a week without improvement, it is advisable to ...[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain: Symptoms and Causes
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When Bowel Movements Become Irregular
My lower body feels completely off? Recently, I have been experiencing irregular bowel movements. I used to have a consistent routine of two bowel movements a day (once in the morning and once in the evening), but now I feel the urge to go throughout the day. However, when I do g...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if you are experiencing constipation, feeling that there is stool in the rectum that you cannot fully evacuate, or experiencing contractions of the anal sphincter, it is advisable to pay attention to your diet and consult a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist. Wishi...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When Bowel Movements Become Irregular
Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Is Your Belly Button Bulging a Concern?
Umbilicus I have a noticeable bulge above my belly button, and I'm not sure if it's my stomach. My abdomen tends to protrude when I'm hungry or in the morning after waking up. I am 163 cm tall and weigh 54 kg, and the bulge is quite obvious when I wear clothes, whi...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the protrusion above the navel may be due to thickening of the subcutaneous tissue, gastrointestinal bloating, or abdominal wall hernia. Rare causes include intra-abdominal tumors. It is advisable to pay attention to dietary habits and control weight. If the protrusion per...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Is Your Belly Button Bulging a Concern?