Understanding Excessive Gas: Causes and Dietary Solutions
The constant trouble of excessive flatulence! Hello, I have a history of chronic gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). My gastrointestinal system was fine until a few months ago when I impulsively started drinking cola, a carbonated beverage that I had avoided for...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Oz: Continuous flatulence and excessive gas in the abdomen may be caused by several factors, including: 1. Swallowing a lot of air; 2. The gastrointestinal tract producing excessive gas. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to dietary habits, such as chewing food tho...[Read More] Understanding Excessive Gas: Causes and Dietary Solutions
Understanding Elevated Liver Function Tests: Causes and Concerns
Abnormal liver function tests? Hello, Doctor. Last week, I had a liver function test, and the results showed elevated liver enzymes: AST: 162, ALT: 220, ALP: 79. I would like to ask if these values are very concerning, especially since I just completed my postpartum confinement p...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, your liver enzyme levels are elevated, indicating inflammation, and you need to be closely monitored and get plenty of rest. There are many reasons for changes in liver function related to Hepatitis B, such as fatigue, other viral infections, alcohol consumption, medicatio...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Function Tests: Causes and Concerns
Can Gastroscopy Reveal Your Lifestyle Habits Like Smoking and Drinking?
Information that can be obtained from gastroscopy? Can a gastroscopy reveal your usual habits? For example, can a gastroscopy indicate whether you smoke or drink alcohol?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Ben, the main purpose of an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for any lesions, including inflammation, erosion, ulcers, tumors, and changes related to lifestyle habits. Widespread lesions may be associated with irritant medi...[Read More] Can Gastroscopy Reveal Your Lifestyle Habits Like Smoking and Drinking?
Can Pregnant Women Safely Undergo Abdominal Ultrasound for Hepatitis B?
About abdominal ultrasound? Hello Dr. Lin: I would like to ask about abdominal ultrasound examinations. If a patient is already pregnant, can they still undergo regular abdominal ultrasounds for hepatitis B? Will this have any impact? Should the examinations be postponed?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, it is safe to perform an abdominal ultrasound for hepatitis B during pregnancy. This procedure is similar to the ultrasounds conducted for routine prenatal check-ups and does not need to be postponed. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan Hospital, ...[Read More] Can Pregnant Women Safely Undergo Abdominal Ultrasound for Hepatitis B?
Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Bloating
Gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello Doctor, after I eat, I often feel bloated and uncomfortable in my abdomen, and this sensation lasts for a long time. Even when I wake up in the morning, my stomach still feels full, and I tend to burp. Could this be related to indigestion? I pre...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Xiao Xin. Given your age, functional dyspepsia is quite common. If symptoms persist for a long time, it is important to rule out organic diseases. I recommend dietary and lifestyle adjustments rather than long-term medication. It is best to eat regular meals in appropriate...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Bloating
Understanding Hepatitis C: Symptoms, Causes, and Recovery Insights
Symptoms? Dr. Lin... The previous report indicated that I tested positive for Hepatitis C virus antibodies (retesting required). It also mentioned that if marked positive, blood donation is not permitted. The normal result is negative, and the retesting is required when I intend ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. A positive antibody test for the hepatitis C virus indicates a past infection with hepatitis C, and approximately 80% of individuals will develop chronic hepatitis. 2. Staying up late does not cause hepatitis C infection; hepatitis C is caused by infection with the h...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis C: Symptoms, Causes, and Recovery Insights
Understanding Black Stool After Herbal Medicine: Is It Normal?
Stool color Hello, doctor. Is it normal for the stool to be darker after taking traditional Chinese medicine? I learned from the media that oligosaccharides can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, which can normalize the shape and color of the stool. Is it safe for pregnan...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. The color of stool is related to food intake. Foods high in iron can result in darker stool, but black stool may sometimes indicate gastrointestinal bleeding. It is advisable to change your diet to see if there is any improvement. If you frequently experience black st...[Read More] Understanding Black Stool After Herbal Medicine: Is It Normal?
Struggling with IBS for 3 Years: Seeking Answers for Ongoing Pain
Suffering from irritable bowel syndrome for 3 years? Hello Doctor, I have been suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) for three years, which causes stomach pain, intestinal pain, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. That's basically it, and I don't know why I can't...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Apan: Liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic diseases can sometimes present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. Your gastrointestinal issues may be related to irritable bowel syndrome. It is important to pay attention to your dietary habits and emotio...[Read More] Struggling with IBS for 3 Years: Seeking Answers for Ongoing Pain
High r-GTP Levels Indicate Alcoholic Hepatitis: What You Need to Know
The r-GTP level for alcoholic hepatitis reached as high as 161? After fasting for eight hours, I underwent a urinalysis and blood test at a general clinic. The report shows the following abnormalities: Total cholesterol = 221 mg/dL, Triglycerides = 284 mg/dL, r-GTP (Gamma-glutamy...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Mr. Tian, Your elevated levels related to alcoholic hepatitis are associated with alcohol consumption; you need to abstain from drinking, and your levels may decrease as a result. Your high blood lipids and uric acid require attention to dietary control and reduced alcohol ...[Read More] High r-GTP Levels Indicate Alcoholic Hepatitis: What You Need to Know
Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Symptoms Explained
Swelling of the intestines? A few days ago, I felt a heaviness in my abdomen and went to a nearby clinic. The doctor said my intestines were swollen. But why would my intestines be swollen? I also have a constant feeling of nausea without being able to vomit, and I feel weak all ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the possible causes of intestinal swelling include intestinal inflammation and obstruction. Symptoms of gastrointestinal inflammation may include bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, generalized body aches, weakness, and fever. The causes may be due to contaminated food, bact...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Symptoms Explained
Feeling Nauseous After Eating Too Fast or Overeating?
Eating too quickly or feeling nauseous after a meal can lead to the urge to vomit? Eating too quickly or feeling nauseous and bloated after a meal may be related to the recent consumption of spicy and acidic foods.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, Ah-Wen. Eating too quickly or feeling nauseous and bloated after a meal, as well as consuming spicy or acidic foods, can be related to dietary habits. It is recommended to chew food thoroughly and to avoid irritating foods. If the symptoms persist severely, in addition to ...[Read More] Feeling Nauseous After Eating Too Fast or Overeating?
Experiencing Blood in Stool? Here's What You Need to Know
Is it blood in the stool? What should I do? Today, while I was using the restroom, I noticed a drop of bright red blood. There was also a little bit when I wiped. At first, I thought it was my menstrual period, but after calculating my cycle, it seems too early! I went to the res...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Mini, if you notice blood when using the restroom, it is generally related to issues in the anal or rectal area. Common causes include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, polyps, tumors, and inflammatory bowel disease. In younger individuals, the most frequent causes are hemorrhoid...[Read More] Experiencing Blood in Stool? Here's What You Need to Know
Understanding Your Pre-Marital Health Checkup Results: Key Insights
Report issues? Hello, doctor. Last week, my boyfriend and I went for a premarital health check-up. Today, I went to pick up the report, but it was only handwritten, and I couldn't understand some of the indices (previously, at another hospital, I received values to compare a...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Ruby, 1. Your test results (female) show abnormal levels of red blood cells and white blood cells in the urine, with a normal range being 0-5/HPF, which may indicate a urinary tract infection that requires follow-up. In your blood tests, the levels of red blood cells, whit...[Read More] Understanding Your Pre-Marital Health Checkup Results: Key Insights
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: When to Seek Medical Attention
Hemorrhoids Hello Doctor, my father was hospitalized for hernia treatment last year, and since then he has frequently experienced blood in his stool. Recently, whenever he eats something different, like "Silver Care" or some nutritional supplements, he has had bleeding....
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Chiouya: 1. Is the blood in the stool fresh red blood or black stool? 2. Consuming iron-rich vitamins or foods can sometimes darken the stool color, but common causes of blood in the stool include hemorrhoids, tumors of the colon, rectum, or anus, polyps, inflammation, a...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Hepatitis B: Can You Recover and Test Negative?
Hepatitis B Last year, during the company health check-up, I was first diagnosed with a positive HBsAg for hepatitis B at 3.1. This year, I went to Kaohsiung Municipal Hospital to see a gastroenterologist for a blood test, and they said I do not have hepatitis B, and the ultrasou...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Lili, The significance of hepatitis B markers is as follows: 1. If HBsAg is positive and HBsAb (anti-S antibody) is negative, the individual is a carrier. They may not exhibit symptoms but should be monitored regularly, as they are at high risk for cirrhosis and hepatocel...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Can You Recover and Test Negative?
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Adhesions or Endometriosis?
Lower abdominal discomfort or pain? I have been experiencing frequent lower abdominal pain, sometimes accompanied by nausea. I have bowel movements once or twice a day, and occasionally there is blood in my urine. When I'm not in pain, I feel a dull discomfort. I previously ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Blood in urine, or hematuria, requires investigation to determine the cause. Differential diagnoses include urinary tract stones, urinary tract infections, kidney disorders, tumors, etc. 2. Endometriosis or intestinal adhesions can cause lower abdominal pain. 3. If abdo...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Adhesions or Endometriosis?
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Diagnostic Procedures
Left lower abdominal bloating and pain? I started experiencing pain in my lower left abdomen since last Wednesday (August 29). The pain is more noticeable when standing or walking, but less so when lying down. I do not have any symptoms of constipation; I usually have regular and...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Left lower abdominal pain can have many differential diagnoses, including musculoskeletal, gynecological, urological, and gastrointestinal inflammatory conditions, all of which may cause pain. Antispasmodic medications can help alleviate the pain. If there is persiste...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Diagnostic Procedures
Managing Bloating and Constipation: Natural Solutions Beyond Medication
Constipation and bloating? Hello, Doctor: Three years after my surgery, I have become prone to bloating, constipation, and excessive flatulence. Recently, my abdomen has become excessively distended (even though my weight has not increased). The doctor performed an X-ray and said...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
After abdominal surgery, the intestines are more prone to adhesions. It is important to pay extra attention to your diet, avoiding fried and irritating foods that are difficult to digest. Chew your food thoroughly and increase your intake of fiber-rich foods, such as fresh fruits...[Read More] Managing Bloating and Constipation: Natural Solutions Beyond Medication
Understanding Gastroenteritis: Why Am I Experiencing Blood in Stool?
Gastroenteritis with persistent bloody diarrhea? This is my first time experiencing gastroenteritis. My stomach has been hurting, and eventually, my whole body started to ache. I have a slight fever. My concern is that when I go to the bathroom, I am passing blood. Why is this ha...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. During gastroenteritis, it is important to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance. You should increase fluid intake and consume a light diet in small amounts, such as congee, plain rice, and white toast. Avoid milk, sweets, spicy foods, and fried foods. 2. Severe di...[Read More] Understanding Gastroenteritis: Why Am I Experiencing Blood in Stool?
Understanding Your Stomach Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
Gastrointestinal discomfort issues? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing discomfort in my stomach. I often feel hungry about an hour after eating a full meal, and this has been ongoing for more than a week. Recently, I have even felt nauseous during meals, just when I...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The causes of stomach discomfort include dyspepsia, inflammation, or ulcers in the stomach, esophagus, or duodenum. It is recommended to chew food thoroughly and eat slowly, while avoiding irritating foods or beverages. If discomfort persists, it is advisable to seek medic...[Read More] Understanding Your Stomach Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions