Post-Appendicitis Care: Diet and Management for Mild Peritonitis
Appendicitis progressing to peritonitis? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about appendicitis that has progressed to mild peritonitis. After surgery, there is also a phenomenon of diarrhea. What can I eat and what should I avoid? How should I take care of myself postoperatively?...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: After an appendectomy, it is important to monitor the healing of the wound and check for any signs of infection. Avoid consuming irritating foods such as spicy, overly acidic, overly sweet, and fried foods. Refrain from drinking alcohol and opt for light, nutritious, and e...[Read More] Post-Appendicitis Care: Diet and Management for Mild Peritonitis
Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Risks, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Gallbladder polyp Dr. Lin: Hello, my husband is a carrier of hepatitis B. He had an abdominal ultrasound yesterday, which showed a gallbladder polyp measuring 0.37 cm. I would like to ask: 1. Since it is a single polyp and not multiple, is there a possibility that it could be mal...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Most gallbladder polyps are benign, while malignant polyps are generally larger, usually greater than 1 cm, and tend to have an irregular shape, sometimes accompanied by changes in the gallbladder wall. 2. Ultrasound monitoring is the most convenient examination; occasi...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Risks, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Small Gallbladder: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Gallbladder? A small gallbladder was noted in the abdominal ultrasound report during your health check-up. What is a small gallbladder? What symptoms might it cause? Is any treatment necessary? Thank you!
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the causes of gallbladder issues include insufficient eating time, gallstones, chronic cholecystitis, and individual differences in constitution. It is recommended to continue monitoring. Best wishes, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding Small Gallbladder: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Understanding Digestive Issues: Solutions for Irregular Bowel Movements
Abnormal I am currently in the third year of junior high school, and after finishing the basic competency test, I feel less anxious. However, I am experiencing irregular bowel movements; sometimes I don't have a bowel movement at all, and I often have bloating. I hope the do...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Jie: It is recommended to pay attention to dietary habits and to develop good bowel habits, along with engaging in moderate exercise. When eating, be mindful to chew thoroughly and avoid talking while eating to minimize air intake into the gastrointestinal tract. In term...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Solutions for Irregular Bowel Movements
Understanding Gastrointestinal Concerns: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Gastrointestinal concerns? Hello, doctor. I have a couple of questions: 1. I often feel my intestines moving under my abdomen (the moving intestines feel firm to the touch). 2. Recently, I've noticed that my stools are thin and short. What could this indicate? If I need to s...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There are many reasons for abnormal bowel movements. First, you should examine whether there have been any recent changes in your diet, if you have a tendency towards constipation, if you have undergone any surgeries, or if you are prone to gastrointestinal obstruction. It...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Concerns: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Pros and Cons of Spleen Embolization vs. Splenectomy for Hepatitis C
Splenic embolization or splenectomy? Hello Doctor: My mother needs to undergo interferon treatment for hepatitis C, but due to splenomegaly, her platelet count is too low. Therefore, the doctor has suggested either splenic embolization or splenectomy. I would like to inquire abou...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. Splenic embolization is a procedure used to treat hypersplenism, which can lead to an increase in total white blood cell count and platelet count, as well as a reduction in portal hypertension and improvement in liver function. Compared to splenectomy, this procedure preserves...[Read More] Pros and Cons of Spleen Embolization vs. Splenectomy for Hepatitis C
Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission and Vaccination: Key Questions Answered
Hepatitis B issues Hello Dr. Lin: (1) What is the probability of transmitting Hepatitis B through saliva and semen? (2) If a person has developed antibodies against Hepatitis B, can they be assured that they will not be infected regardless of contact with a Hepatitis B carrier? (...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Xiao Dou: 1. In patients with hepatitis B, the virus HBV-DNA can be detected in saliva, semen, and vaginal secretions, indicating sexual transmission. According to foreign literature, the transmission rate among heterosexuals is approximately 39%, particularly among those...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission and Vaccination: Key Questions Answered
Understanding the Causes of Pellet-Like Stool: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Gastrointestinal issues Hello, could you please explain the reasons for having pellet-like stools for over a year? (My diet is normal, and I have sufficient intake of fruits, vegetables, and water.) Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Dennispeng, 1. Pellet-like stools can be seen in various causes of constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. When feces remain in the colon for too long, a significant amount of water is absorbed by the intestinal wall, resulting in hard and dry stools that are difficult ...[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Pellet-Like Stool: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: What You Need to Know
Abnormal liver function tests? Hello Dr. Lin: I just received the results of my military service physical examination from the city office today. It states that my liver enzyme levels are elevated, with SGOT at 58 and SGPT at 84. I checked online, and the normal range is consider...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello A-Min, Although the standard values for GOT and GPT may vary slightly from one hospital to another, they generally do not differ significantly. In our hospital, the standard values for GOT and GPT are below 40. A GPT level of 84 indicates an abnormal liver index, suggesti...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: What You Need to Know
Persistent Bad Breath: Understanding Causes and Treatment Options
Distress Hello Doctor: I have been troubled by a frustrating issue for the past five years; I have a problem with halitosis. Regardless of whether I brush my teeth or not, my breath is always foul, and people are hesitant to talk to me, which is difficult to address. I am only 28...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Mr. Chen, Halitosis is a bothersome issue that can persist even with good oral hygiene, and despite not smoking or drinking alcohol. It is advisable to avoid irritant foods such as garlic, as some cases of halitosis are related to anaerobic bacteria in the oral cavity. The ...[Read More] Persistent Bad Breath: Understanding Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Oily Stools: Causes and Dietary Impacts
Questions about bowel movements? Recently, I have been experiencing oily stools during bowel movements and also when passing gas. I haven't taken any other medications, such as detox or weight loss drugs. Could eating spicy foods cause this? I've only been eating curry ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Xiao Pei. The presence of oil in your stool can be related to several causes associated with malabsorption. Possible reasons include: 1. Consuming excessively fatty foods leading to poor absorption; 2. Gastrointestinal inflammation resulting in malabsorption; 3. Liver, gal...[Read More] Understanding Oily Stools: Causes and Dietary Impacts
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Young Adults
Blood in the stool..? Hello doctor, I'm a 20-year-old male. I've felt that my gastrointestinal health hasn't been great since I was young. I often experience flatulence and belching, and my bowel movements have been irregular, occurring only every 4 to 5 days. Rece...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the presence of blood on the surface of stool is commonly seen in young individuals due to anal fissures and hemorrhoids. Other potential causes include colitis, colorectal cancer, and polyps. It is advisable to increase fiber and fluid intake to develop good bowel habits....[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Young Adults
Understanding Appendicitis: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
About appendicitis? Doctor, I experience pain when I press on my lower right abdomen, but it doesn't hurt when I release the pressure, and I don't have any other discomfort. Could this be appendicitis? Which type of clinic should I go to for an examination?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Aliao. 1. In addition to abdominal pain, acute appendicitis typically presents with symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and loss of appetite. The abdominal pain may initially be located in the upper abdomen and then gradually shift to the right lower quadrant. 2. There a...[Read More] Understanding Appendicitis: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Duodenal Ulcers and White Spots: What You Need to Know
Pylorus/Duodenum: There are necrotic white spots????? Hello! In the past two days, I underwent a colonoscopy and an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. On the day of the endoscopy, the doctor mentioned that there were areas of erosion in the pylorus and duodenum. Today, during the ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Regarding the diagnosis using endoscopy (gastroscopy and colonoscopy), it is advisable to consult a physician. 2. Four samples may be taken, which could involve biopsies that require histopathological examination; the results will take longer, approximately one week ...[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcers and White Spots: What You Need to Know
Black Oily Stool in Children: What It Means and When to See a Doctor
Black, oily stools? Hello, my seven-year-old child had difficulty passing stool this morning while sitting on the toilet, but a few drops of black oily substance came out. What could this be? I remember noticing that his bottom was particularly oily during his bath last night, bu...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the characteristics of stool are related to the food consumed. Stools that are oily may indicate poor digestion and absorption, while black stools can sometimes indicate gastrointestinal bleeding. It is advisable to consult a pediatric gastroenterologist. Wishing you good ...[Read More] Black Oily Stool in Children: What It Means and When to See a Doctor
How Hepatitis B Carriers Can Prevent Transmission to Others
Hepatitis B carriers should take the following precautions to avoid transmitting the virus to others: Hello Dr. Lin: I am a carrier of hepatitis B. How can I avoid transmitting the virus to others? What measures should I take to protect my wife (or girlfriend) and children from i...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Xiao Dou. 1. The transmission route of Hepatitis B is through bodily fluids, including blood, saliva, and semen. It is important to be cautious with personal items that may come into contact with your blood, such as razors and toothbrushes; it is advisable not to share t...[Read More] How Hepatitis B Carriers Can Prevent Transmission to Others
Understanding Stomach Polyps: Commonality and Management Options
Gastric polyp Recently, I visited a gastroenterology clinic due to discomfort from bloating. After an endoscopy, the physician found: 1. gastroesophageal reflux, 2. mild ulcers in the esophagus and stomach, and 3. a polyp. A biopsy of the polyp indicated it was a benign polyp, an...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Polyps smaller than 2 cm are more easily removed via endoscopy, while larger polyps may require surgical intervention for complete removal. The management of polyps sometimes depends on their histology, location, quantity, and size. Hyperplastic polyps are the most common ...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Polyps: Commonality and Management Options
Understanding Hepatitis A Vaccination: Timing and Efficacy Explained
Hepatitis A vaccine, doses 1 and 2? Dr. Lin: Hello. I received the first dose of the hepatitis A vaccine from you last December. I would like to ask: 1. Is the second dose given six months later? Can it be administered earlier? 2. What is the reason for receiving the second dose?...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Cynthia: The hepatitis A vaccine is an inactivated vaccine. If only one dose is administered, its efficacy is lower, and multiple injections are required to enhance the antibody response. Currently, hepatitis A vaccines are classified into inactivated and live attenuated ty...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis A Vaccination: Timing and Efficacy Explained
Understanding CA 72-4 Levels and Cancer Risk: What You Need to Know
CA 72-4 is a tumor marker primarily associated with gastric cancer, but it can also be elevated in Hello, my CA72-4 gastric cancer tumor marker is 12.7, which is significantly above the standard. Could you please tell me what the probability of having cancer is? I have no symptom...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Ms. Chiu. 1. CA72-4 primarily detects the tumor-associated glycoprotein TAG-72 in the blood, which is secreted by adenocarcinoma cells. Clinically, it is mainly used for gastrointestinal and ovarian tumors, particularly mucinous ovarian cancer. Previous studies have repo...[Read More] Understanding CA 72-4 Levels and Cancer Risk: What You Need to Know
Can Hair Loss Treatments Like Finasteride Affect My Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B and medications for treating male pattern baldness? Hello, doctor. I have hepatitis B and am currently under regular follow-up at a provincial hospital. My current condition includes fatty liver, but everything else is normal. I would like to ask if it is appropriate ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Linus, regarding medications like Linopirdine and Boscalid, literature reports associated side effects include impacts on sexual function, effects on PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels, and cases of elevated liver enzymes, particularly in patients who consume alcohol, a...[Read More] Can Hair Loss Treatments Like Finasteride Affect My Hepatitis B?