What Stomach Conditions Does Ba Yi Kui Treat?
excuse me? Bai Yi Kui is a medication used to treat gastric diseases, particularly for conditions such as gastric ulcers and gastritis.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Pariet (rabeprazole) is a proton pump inhibitor that acts on the gastric parietal cell membrane to suppress gastric acid secretion. Its efficacy is stronger than that of H2 blockers and can be used to treat peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and other g...[Read More] What Stomach Conditions Does Ba Yi Kui Treat?
Do I Need Another Hepatitis B Vaccine After Testing Negative for Antibodies?
Please ask your question? I received the hepatitis B vaccine when I was young, but during a blood test in fifth grade, it showed that I had no antibodies. I also underwent core testing at the hospital, which confirmed the absence of antibodies. However, the doctor mentioned that ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the hepatitis B vaccine is a recombinant vaccine. Since it is an inactivated vaccine, antibody levels may decline significantly after several years post-vaccination, but this does not necessarily mean that protection is lost, as memory cells in the body can produce antibod...[Read More] Do I Need Another Hepatitis B Vaccine After Testing Negative for Antibodies?
Understanding Gastritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery Time
Gastritis I noticed stomach pain on August 3rd, and on August 4th, I was diagnosed with pelvic inflammatory disease. However, my stomach still hurts a lot today, and I have been experiencing a fever every day. How many days will it take to recover? Is there a chance of recurrence...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the antibiotic treatment for pelvic inflammatory disease typically lasts for 2 weeks. Gastritis and irregular eating habits, along with stress and medications (antibiotics, pain relievers), may be related to the infection. If symptoms persist, it is recommended to consult ...[Read More] Understanding Gastritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery Time
Understanding Acid Reflux: Symptoms, Snoring, and When to Seek Help
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello! My father has been experiencing symptoms that suggest gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and has been snoring for some time. During sleep, he suddenly chokes and has difficulty breathing, and at times his face turns pale and his l...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Snoring is sometimes associated with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. It is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist for snoring issues. Snoring can sometimes be improved by weight loss and changing sleeping positions, while in some cases, it may require reconstruc...[Read More] Understanding Acid Reflux: Symptoms, Snoring, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
Unusual discomfort in the upper abdomen? I have a bulge below my xiphoid process extending to the right rib cage, which becomes more noticeable after eating. I usually don't pay attention to it, but now there's a slight, dull pain. Could you please help me with this? Th...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, upper abdominal pain after eating, accompanied by a feeling of fullness, may indicate issues with the stomach or duodenum, which could be functional or organic (such as gastritis or peptic ulcers). Problems with the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas can also cause pain. It i...[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Elevated Blood Ammonia Levels: Causes, Symptoms, and Testing
Blood ammonia I have alcoholic hepatitis, coronary artery disease, a minor stroke, and gallstones. Recently, I went to the emergency room due to abdominal bloating, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Blood tests showed my serum ammonia level was 130. The doctor informed me tha...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, elevated ammonia levels are toxic to the brain. Normally, ammonia is produced from protein metabolism. However, the human body has a urea cycle system to eliminate ammonia. In children with congenital metabolic disorders, this can lead to hyperammonemia, which may present ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Blood Ammonia Levels: Causes, Symptoms, and Testing
Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Management Tips
Pain in the lower left quadrant of the abdomen? Hello doctor, I started experiencing pain in the lower left side of my abdomen since yesterday. It feels similar to the pain associated with diarrhea, but it still hurts even after I have a bowel movement. When I press on the skin a...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the organs in the lower abdomen include the small intestine, urethra, and gynecological organs such as the uterus and ovaries. It is recommended to maintain a light diet, ensure smooth bowel movements, and pay attention to bowel and urinary habits as well as any abdominal ...[Read More] Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Management Tips
Understanding Drug Resistance in Hepatitis B Treatment: A Case Study
Antimicrobial resistance My son is 24 years old and is studying for his master's degree in America. He is HBe positive and HBe negative. 1. He has been on lamivudine since January 2008. 2. On December 29, 2008, his lab results showed AST 31, ALT 46, and HBV-DNA approximate...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, for patients with chronic hepatitis B who have been on Lamivudine for one year and show an increase in viral load, there is a possibility of developing Lamivudine resistance. When Lamivudine resistance occurs, the current recommendation is to use Lamivudine in combination ...[Read More] Understanding Drug Resistance in Hepatitis B Treatment: A Case Study
Managing Persistent Left Abdominal Pain: Which Specialist to Consult?
Medical consultation? I had a CT scan of my lower abdomen at a family medicine clinic, and the doctor said everything looks generally fine. However, I am currently experiencing intermittent dull pain in my lower left abdomen and left flank, and the frequency is increasing. What s...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the differential diagnosis for left lower abdominal and left flank pain includes musculoskeletal, neurological, urinary tract, or gastrointestinal causes. It is recommended to discuss with your family medicine physician whether a referral to a specialist is necessary. You ...[Read More] Managing Persistent Left Abdominal Pain: Which Specialist to Consult?
Can a CT Scan Replace an Endoscopy for Gastrointestinal Issues?
Can a CT scan replace an endoscopy? Hello Dr. Lin, I am a 50-year-old male. Two years ago, I underwent an endoscopy due to gastroesophageal reflux disease. On June 12, 2009, I visited my primary care physician for abdominal swelling, and the doctor recommended that I pay out of p...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
I'm sorry, but I cannot view attachments. Please provide the text you would like me to translate.[Read More] Can a CT Scan Replace an Endoscopy for Gastrointestinal Issues?
Is Squatting for Bowel Movements Harmful to Your Health?
Squatting for bowel movements? Is squatting while defecating harmful to the body? I have a sitting toilet at home, but I have been accustomed to squatting since childhood. Now at 22 years old, I haven't experienced any issues, but I would like to understand this from a medic...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, compared to sitting while defecating, squatting may require more effort. Squatting with elevated feet and leaning forward can enhance the effects of the Valsalva maneuver, which is beneficial for bowel movements. However, one should not squat for too long, as it may impede...[Read More] Is Squatting for Bowel Movements Harmful to Your Health?
Understanding Liver and Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Further Testing
Regarding the liver and stomach? Hello, Gastroenterologist: A few days ago, I started feeling discomfort in my stomach, but I did not seek medical attention. One night, I suddenly experienced severe stomach pain that was unbearable, so I immediately went to the emergency room. I ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Based on your symptoms and test results, it appears to be acute hepatitis. The causes of acute hepatitis can be categorized into viral hepatitis (including hepatitis A, B, C, D, E, and other viruses such as EBV, CMV, HSV, etc.) and non-viral hepatitis, which includes ...[Read More] Understanding Liver and Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Further Testing
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Frequent abdominal pain? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a question. About six months ago, I suddenly experienced "pain while urinating." I endured it for about three days until I couldn't take it anymore and went to the hospital for an examination. The doct...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, young women with lower abdominal pain should consider differential diagnoses that include urinary tract, gastrointestinal, and gynecological issues. If the pain is intermittent, it is advisable to seek outpatient evaluation and treatment, which can be done through general ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Hepatitis B: Key Questions on Viral Load and Treatment Options
Hepatitis B issues Hello Dr. Lin: I am a carrier of hepatitis B and have regular check-ups every year. Earlier this year, I underwent tests, and the results showed that both GOT and GPT levels were normal, AFP was 2.7, e-antigen was negative, e-antibody was positive, and the abdo...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. The e antigen may turn negative again, but the chances are low. Those who have spontaneously cleared the e antigen are less likely to experience this. However, individuals who have received antiviral medication may have a chance of turning e antigen negative, although...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Key Questions on Viral Load and Treatment Options
Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Next Steps and Treatment Options
Elevated AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein) Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask about my recent health check-up at work where I found that my AFP level is 97.75. I then went to the hospital for further examination, where they checked my GOT, GPT, and performed an ultrasound, as well as teste...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the high likelihood conditions associated with AFP include hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancer, pregnancy, and other less common cancers related to the embryo. For hepatitis, it is important to identify the cause, such as viral hepatitis, alcohol consumption, medications, a...[Read More] Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Next Steps and Treatment Options
Understanding Dry Mouth and Sore Throat: Is Your Liver to Blame?
Liver Recently, I've been experiencing dry mouth and sores in my mouth, which are quite severe! My throat also hurts! Could this be related to my lifestyle, or is it an issue with my liver?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, symptoms such as dry mouth, mouth sores, and sore throat can have various causes, including colds, fatigue, nutritional imbalances, and vitamin deficiencies. If you are concerned about liver issues, you can have a blood test done. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Li...[Read More] Understanding Dry Mouth and Sore Throat: Is Your Liver to Blame?
Understanding Abnormal Bowel Movements and Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Abnormal bowel movements, bleeding, and nausea? My mother is 48 years old, and she has described her "abnormal bowel movements" for over a year. She has multiple bowel movements a day, sometimes 3 to 4 times or more, with episodes of diarrhea and sometimes just soft sto...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Some individuals experience diarrhea and bloating due to lactose intolerance when consuming milk. 2. Generally, spicy foods can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and lead to diarrhea. 3. Missing teeth, poor chewing ability, and reduced secretion of digestive juice...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Bowel Movements and Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Understanding Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Remedies
Pain above the navel? I have severe pain above my navel and below my chest. I also have diarrhea. I had lunch at school today and I'm not sure if it was because I ate too quickly, as I usually eat very slowly, or if it was the fried yam and fresh milk that caused this. Tonig...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, pain above the navel accompanied by diarrhea may indicate gastroenteritis. It is recommended to avoid irritating foods for the next few days (including: overly acidic, spicy, sugary foods, fried items, tea, coffee, and milk). Please consume a bland diet and monitor for per...[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Remedies
Understanding Gastrointestinal Bleeding: What Your Symptoms Might Mean
Gastrointestinal bleeding I have been experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort for over a month, and I've noticed what seems like blood on the surface of my stool for about the same duration. I went to the hospital for a stool test, but they reported no occult blood. Does th...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. The fecal occult blood test is used to detect hidden blood in the stool that is not visible to the naked eye, utilizing chemical or immunological methods to check for hemoglobin reactions in the stool. Sometimes, a small sample size or the intake of vitamin C may lead...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Bleeding: What Your Symptoms Might Mean
Understanding the Impact of Mucus in Stool: What You Need to Know
Frequently producing clear, sticky discharge? Hello Dr. Lin, I often notice that I pass a transparent, sticky substance during bowel movements. Is this what is referred to as intestinal mucus? Does passing this frequently have any harmful effects on my intestines? Thank you for y...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. The presence of mucus in stool is not necessarily a serious issue. Normal stool may contain a small amount of mucus, which appears as a clear, jelly-like substance secreted by the intestinal mucosa to lubricate the walls of the colon. 2. However, if there is a chang...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Mucus in Stool: What You Need to Know