Can I Book an Abdominal Ultrasound Appointment for My Husband?
Follow-up: Schedule for abdominal ultrasound? Thank you, Dr. Lin, for your response. My husband only needs to schedule an abdominal ultrasound appointment and does not require a consultation or blood draw. Is it possible for me to make the appointment for him? He can just come in...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I suggest you make an appointment for the hepatitis outpatient clinic at Taoyuan Hospital on the afternoon of October 22. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, Taoyuan Hospital.[Read More] Can I Book an Abdominal Ultrasound Appointment for My Husband?
Follow-Up on Gallbladder Polyps: Appointment Inquiry for Ultrasound
Follow-up questions regarding gallbladder polyps? Dr. Lin: Hello! Last time my husband had an abdominal ultrasound with you, and a 0.37 cm gallbladder polyp was found. Now that three months have passed, he needs to return for a follow-up appointment, but it is inconvenient for hi...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, you can schedule an abdominal ultrasound. According to health insurance regulations, the patient must be present for the consultation. Best regards, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Follow-Up on Gallbladder Polyps: Appointment Inquiry for Ultrasound
Understanding Abnormal Glutamyl Transferase Levels: Causes and Concerns
Abnormalities of transaminases? Hello, I recently had a health check-up at my company and my results showed an abnormal level of gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) at 104. The other results were as follows: GTP: 18, SGOT: 23, direct bilirubin (D-BIL): 0.2, total bilirubin (T-BIL): ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) can be found in biliary epithelial cells, hepatocytes, and other tissues such as the kidneys, pancreas, and small intestine. GGT, also known as the alcohol index, can be used to assess alcoholic hepatitis. Additionally, if alkaline phosphat...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Glutamyl Transferase Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Liver Health: Common Questions and Answers
Many questions? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask you some questions. Today, I was approached on the street to fill out a questionnaire and also had some indices measured. My blood pressure and heart function are normal, but my body fat percentage is at 10%. I heard that the nor...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, A-K. 1. I'm not sure what tests you are undergoing, but commonly available tests may measure body fat percentage or fat mass. Body composition can be divided into fat and non-fat components (including bones, muscles, organs, and connective tissues). Fat is an import...[Read More] Understanding Liver Health: Common Questions and Answers
Understanding Malignant Gastric Tumors: When Is Surgery Necessary?
Malignant tumors of the stomach 1. In February, the examination revealed a 2 cm gastric ulcer. After medication, the pain has decreased, but there was no regular follow-up. By July, the gastric ulcer had grown to 5 cm and was found to be malignant, although there was no blood in ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Current pharmacological treatments for gastric ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease are effective in alleviating symptoms, but they do not address malignant tumors. Some tumors may be asymptomatic while continuing to grow, and if left untreated, they can spread,...[Read More] Understanding Malignant Gastric Tumors: When Is Surgery Necessary?
Understanding Upper Right Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Regarding upper abdominal pain? I would like to ask about the severe pain I frequently experience in my upper right abdomen. Sometimes it occurs in the morning when I wake up, and other times it happens at night when I'm about to sleep. This has been going on for quite some ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, there are many causes of upper abdominal pain, including gastrointestinal issues, inflammation, ulcers, erosion, or functional reasons. Additionally, liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic diseases may also be involved, as well as referred pain from other organs. If the pain p...[Read More] Understanding Upper Right Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Managing Mid-Stage Cirrhosis: Symptoms, Diet, and Care for Patients
I'm sorry, but I need more Hello, I have some questions regarding cirrhosis. Currently, the physician has diagnosed it as moderate cirrhosis, with complications including ascites and elevated bilirubin levels. These symptoms are not experienced by me but by my child at home,...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. The patient has cirrhosis with ascites and jaundice. If the patient is unable to communicate, it is important to monitor the amount of ascites by measuring abdominal girth, tracking weight daily, and observing urine output. General management of ascites includes fluid and sodi...[Read More] Managing Mid-Stage Cirrhosis: Symptoms, Diet, and Care for Patients
Understanding Loose Stools and Appetite Issues: Insights from a Gastroenterologist
Could you please clarify your question for Dr. Lin? Dr. Lin: I have a regular bowel movement every morning, and my stool is loose and not formed; sometimes it's watery. When I wipe, it's a watery consistency with some stool. Does this count as diarrhea? Why is this happ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. Diarrhea refers to an increased frequency of bowel movements or an increase in the volume and liquidity of stools, which may sometimes be accompanied by urgency or incontinence. 2. Your gastrointestinal symptoms may be due to functional gastrointestinal disorders, but it is ...[Read More] Understanding Loose Stools and Appetite Issues: Insights from a Gastroenterologist
Understanding Gallstones: Treatment Options and Health Implications
Gallstones Hello, doctor. I recently went to the hospital due to upper abdominal pain and was diagnosed with gallstones. The doctor suggested that if the pain persists, I should consider gallbladder removal. The doctor also prescribed medication for gallstones, but mentioned that...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. The gallbladder serves to store, concentrate, and excrete bile. After gallbladder removal, liver cells continue to secrete bile, but it cannot be stored. If excessive fatty foods are consumed, it may sometimes lead to malabsorption of fats. A minority of individuals may still ...[Read More] Understanding Gallstones: Treatment Options and Health Implications
Understanding IBS Symptoms: Is It a Recurrence or Something Else?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Hello Dr. Lin, I previously had issues with irritable bowel syndrome. A little over a week ago, after dinner, I experienced mild pain in my lower left abdomen. Initially, my bowel movements were normal, but later they became mixed with watery stools...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) often experience symptoms including intermittent abdominal pain, diarrhea after meals, and abdominal discomfort. Some may have increased bowel movements, with stools that can be either solid or watery, or may contain mucus. Ther...[Read More] Understanding IBS Symptoms: Is It a Recurrence or Something Else?
How to Lower Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: A Guide
Elevated total bilirubin? Hello Doctor, last year my total bilirubin was 1.6, and this year it has increased to 2.1. Could you please advise me on how to lower it? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. When bilirubin levels rise above normal, it is essential to identify the underlying cause for appropriate treatment. It is important to determine whether the increase is primarily due to indirect (unconjugated) or direct (conjugated) bilirubin. Common differential dia...[Read More] How to Lower Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: A Guide
Understanding Early Signs and Dietary Tips for Cirrhosis Management
Cirrhosis What should a physician's attention be focused on during the early stages of cirrhosis? What dietary considerations should be taken into account? What symptoms may present with this condition? Is there a possibility for complete recovery from this disease? If not, ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Early-stage cirrhosis patients often have no symptoms and normal liver function. There are no specific dietary restrictions, but it is recommended to consume more natural foods, avoid foods with chemical additives, eat nutritious foods, refrain from alcohol and smokin...[Read More] Understanding Early Signs and Dietary Tips for Cirrhosis Management
Understanding Stomach Distension: Causes and Dietary Solutions
Gastric polyp Hello, I have a female friend who often experiences stomach discomfort. Is it due to a congenital issue with her stomach, or could it be related to her diet?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, gastric spasms can have many causes, both congenital and acquired. Factors such as constitution, excessive gastric acid secretion, anxiety, irregular eating habits, overeating, consumption of spicy or irritating foods, frequent gastritis, ulcers, and even medications can c...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Distension: Causes and Dietary Solutions
Understanding Hepatitis B: Is Normal Liver Function Enough?
Hepatitis B I would like to ask if having normal liver function test results means that my Hepatitis B status is also normal? Is there a correlation between normal liver function and Hepatitis B, or do I need to go to the hospital for further testing? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, normal liver function indicates that there is currently no inflammation in the liver. To check for hepatitis B, it is necessary to test for HBsAg and HBsAb in the blood. Most carriers of hepatitis B are asymptomatic. Liver enzyme levels may be normal, but carriers need lif...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Is Normal Liver Function Enough?
Is My Blood Pressure Normal? Understanding Low Blood Pressure Symptoms
Is my blood pressure normal? I often feel dizzy, and when I measure my blood pressure at home, my diastolic pressure is only in the 90s. Is this considered low blood pressure? Should I see a doctor? Does your clinic offer health check-ups? Are they available on Saturdays? How are...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. A systolic blood pressure greater than 140 mmHg and a diastolic blood pressure greater than 90 mmHg is considered hypertension. Both high and low blood pressure can cause dizziness, so it is important to measure blood pressure regularly and keep a record. It is essent...[Read More] Is My Blood Pressure Normal? Understanding Low Blood Pressure Symptoms
Understanding Constipation and Diarrhea: Causes and Solutions
Constipation and diarrhea? Hello Dr. Lin: In the past two weeks, I have experienced constipation for 2-3 days, followed by abdominal pain and diarrhea (watery stools). During the abdominal pain, I felt a bit dizzy and nauseous, and there was a slight bloating sensation. After hav...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain, considering your age, may be attributed to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is advisable to manage stress levels and pay attention to dietary habits (reduce intake of caffeinated foods and beverage...[Read More] Understanding Constipation and Diarrhea: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Constipation in Teenagers
Abdominal pain and constipation..? Hello Doctor: I am 16 years old and a female. Recently, I started feeling discomfort in my abdomen. Since I have experienced this before, I initially ignored it. However, my flatulence became very foul-smelling, and I had difficulty with bowel m...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you experience bloating and changes in bowel habits after eating small amounts of food and water, try not to worry too much. Recently, it's important to control your diet, consume appropriate and easily digestible foods and water, and avoid spicy foods as well as t...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Constipation in Teenagers
Can Late Pregnancy Trigger Acute Hepatitis? Insights and Cases
Can hepatitis occur in the late stages of pregnancy? Hello Dr. Lin: My beloved one was 32 weeks pregnant and developed acute hepatitis, and unfortunately, she became an angel mother just 5 days after an emergency cesarean section. I need assistance (medical consultation) on the...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. In the late stage of pregnancy, acute hepatitis can present with a more complex condition. I have limited experience and cannot provide specific examples. 2. Generally, in the pathophysiology of acute hepatitis, the levels of AST (GOT) and ALT (GPT) rise first, follo...[Read More] Can Late Pregnancy Trigger Acute Hepatitis? Insights and Cases
Frequent Nausea and Abdominal Pain: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Frequent episodes of vomiting? Recently, I have been experiencing several episodes of nausea every day, both before and after meals. Sometimes, I also feel abdominal pain and discomfort.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you frequently experience nausea and the urge to vomit, it is advisable to pay more attention to your eating habits. Avoid eating too quickly and refrain from consuming spicy foods; do not drink alcohol or smoke. If you often have abdominal pain or discomfort, it is rec...[Read More] Frequent Nausea and Abdominal Pain: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Concerns for B Hepatitis Carriers
Gallbladder polyps Dr. Lin: I apologize for bothering you again. I had an abdominal ultrasound last week, which showed a 0.37 cm gallbladder polyp, and I am a carrier of hepatitis B. In your response on July 14, you mentioned that the ultrasound indicated "cholesterol or ade...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Generally, cholesterol polyps are brighter, more regular, and multiple. Your polyp is small, regular, but not very bright. Currently, only one is observed, and it does not appear malignant at this time, but it needs to be monitored. It is generally recommended to remo...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Concerns for B Hepatitis Carriers