Understanding Oily Stools: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Oily stools I consulted a doctor a few days ago due to diarrhea, which improved the next day but changed to soft stools and clay-colored oil. I also noticed oil being expelled with gas. The doctor diagnosed me with enteritis, but after two days of medication, there has been no im...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Abnormal fat absorption can lead to fatty stools. Small intestine diseases (such as infections, malabsorption, or lymphatic obstruction) or pancreatic diseases (such as pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer) can cause excessive fat in the stool. If the amount is significant an...[Read More] Understanding Oily Stools: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Variations in sGOT and sGPT Normal Ranges Across Hospitals
sGOT and sGPT issues? Hello Dr. Lin: Recently, I had tests for hepatitis B at two different hospitals, measuring sGOT and sGPT. The normal ranges and units differ between the two hospitals. One hospital has normal ranges of (6-25) IU/L for sGOT and (0-25) IU/L for sGPT, while the...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Different hospitals or testing facilities have varying reference values, so it is important to pay attention to whether GOT and GPT levels are above the normal range. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Internal Medicine.[Read More] Understanding Variations in sGOT and sGPT Normal Ranges Across Hospitals
Understanding Your Baby's Abdominal Sounds: When to Seek Help
Abdominal issues in infants..? Our baby has been making a sound like water sloshing in his abdomen since he was 3.4 months old, regardless of whether he has just had milk. He is now one and a half years old, and every time we pick him up, the sloshing sound still occurs. Is this ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I would like to consult a pediatrician regarding the issue of pyloric stenosis in the stomach. Should we be concerned about any signs of low body weight or vomiting? Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui from Internal Medicine.[Read More] Understanding Your Baby's Abdominal Sounds: When to Seek Help
Understanding Vomiting Blood After Drinking: Causes and Concerns
Hematemesis after alcohol consumption? Hello Doctor: A few days ago, after drinking alcohol, I vomited and it looked like I was vomiting blood, as the vomit was red. After that, I have been experiencing chest pain while breathing. Could this be a sign of gastric bleeding, or what...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Vomiting red material may indicate hematemesis. Vomiting after drinking alcohol is often caused by forceful vomiting, which can lead to tears and bleeding at the gastroesophageal junction. Minor cases may heal with rest and medication, but if there is significant bleeding ...[Read More] Understanding Vomiting Blood After Drinking: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Severe Diarrhea: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Diarrhea has become watery and has persisted throughout the day? Hello Doctor: My younger brother started feeling cold last night, and during his sleep, he experienced symptoms of fever and auditory hallucinations (not sure if he had a fever, but he was sweating profusely and cou...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Acute diarrhea occurring more than twice is most commonly caused by gastroenteritis. Possible factors include contaminated food, viral infections, bacterial infections, and medication side effects. The main treatment focuses on rehydration and electrolyte replacement, alon...[Read More] Understanding Severe Diarrhea: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Bloating and Early Satiety: Causes and Solutions
Dyspepsia Hello, Dr. Lin. Since June, I have been feeling full very quickly after eating, and sometimes if I eat a little too much, I experience bloating and a sensation of wanting to vomit. At the beginning of July, I underwent an endoscopy and blood tests at the hospital, and t...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Feeling full easily after eating, experiencing bloating, and vomiting are common issues, especially among young people, often attributed to functional gastrointestinal disorders. Therefore, doctors recommend improving dietary habits, maintaining a relaxed mood, avoiding ex...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Early Satiety: Causes and Solutions
Can Hemorrhoids Be Treated Without Surgery? Common Concerns Explained
Is it possible to treat hemorrhoids without surgery? Hello, about a year and a half ago, I visited a doctor for an anal fissure. It seems he performed an endoscopic examination where I lay on my side and he inserted the endoscope (I think he also inflated it, which made my abdome...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Endoscopic examinations are classified based on the length of insertion, including anoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and colonoscopy. 2. Stool should not be too hard, and avoid straining during bowel movements to reduce the risk of anal fissures. 3. If hemorrhoids are confirmed,...[Read More] Can Hemorrhoids Be Treated Without Surgery? Common Concerns Explained
Food Poisoning or Cold? Understanding Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Stomach pain after food poisoning? On Saturday, I had a high fever of 39 degrees Celsius, with weakness in my limbs, mild diarrhea, and abdominal pain, but no sore throat, cough, or runny nose. The doctor diagnosed me with a cold, and after taking medication, my fever subsided, b...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Some colds can present with symptoms of gastroenteritis, which is a type of gastroenteritis caused by a virus. Common symptoms of gastroenteritis include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and food poisoning can also present with diarrhea, vomiting, and fever....[Read More] Food Poisoning or Cold? Understanding Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Understanding Frequent Hiccups: When to Seek Medical Advice
Hiccup Hello Dr. Lin, I experience frequent burping multiple times a day. I burp when I drink water, after taking a few bites of food, even when I don't eat anything, and I still burp after finishing a meal. I would like to know if this situation is normal or if there might ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Hiccups occur when the diaphragm nerve is stimulated. Poor eating habits (such as eating too quickly, overeating, or consuming too many carbonated beverages), gastrointestinal diseases, intra-abdominal infections, or neurological issues can all be potential causes. Sincere...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Hiccups: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Changes in Stool Shape: Causes and Implications
Bowel irregularities Please consult a physician regarding the reasons for a change in stool consistency from thick and long to thin and short. Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The formation of feces is related to dietary factors, including the amount of water and fiber intake, the formation of gastrointestinal motility, lesions in the colon such as polyps, tumors, and inflammatory conditions, as well as abnormalities in the anal sphincter functi...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool Shape: Causes and Implications
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: When to Seek Medical Attention
Rectal bleeding Hello Doctor: Recently, I've been experiencing blood after bowel movements. It's not just on the toilet paper; the water in the toilet bowl turns red. This has happened before, but it was only a small amount of blood on the toilet paper. However, recentl...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Blood in the stool, with previous colonoscopy showing no issues, may be caused by hemorrhoidal bleeding, anal fissures, benign colorectal polyps, or tumors. If bleeding occurs frequently, it is advisable to seek medical attention and avoid irritating foods. Constipation an...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: When to Seek Medical Attention
Could Your Symptoms Indicate Gastrointestinal Bleeding?
Could it be gastrointestinal bleeding? I have recently been experiencing a cool sensation in my throat, and my stools are mostly dark brown. I also feel some discomfort in my gastrointestinal tract. In the past, I have only had mild ulcers. Could this be a symptom of gastrointest...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. The color of stool is related to diet; consuming iron-rich foods can result in dark brown stool. If there is a concern about bleeding, a fecal occult blood test can be performed. If the stool is very dark, resembling tar, and accompanied by dizziness and palpitations, i...[Read More] Could Your Symptoms Indicate Gastrointestinal Bleeding?
Understanding Recent Stomach Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Recently, I have been experiencing stomach pain? Hello, I have been experiencing stomach pain lately and have a habit of eating late-night snacks, consuming amounts similar to my main meals. Recently, I often drink iced tea (sweetened) and iced yogurt on an empty stomach. I have ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Your symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux raise the suspicion of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is related to dietary habits; late-night snacks, fried high-fat foods, spicy foods, and being overweight can all affect the lower esophageal sphincter, leadi...[Read More] Understanding Recent Stomach Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Gastrointestinal Health
Bloodletting Hello, doctor. A few years ago, I had a record of blood in my stool (during the university entrance exam), and recently, due to increased life stress, I have another record of blood in my stool, which is very frightening (the entire toilet was bright red). I am very ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea; it is less likely to involve blood in the stool. If there is blood, it is important to check for any lesions in the anus, rectum, or colon, including hemorrhoids, anal fissu...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Gastrointestinal Health
Is It Normal to Experience Prolonged Bleeding After Hemorrhoid Surgery?
Is it normal for the wound to continue bleeding for more than a week after hemorrhoid surgery? Hello, Doctor: I saw your responses regarding this matter online, so I would like to ask you a question. Recently, I underwent surgery for hemorrhoids (internal hemorrhoids) at a clinic...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is recommended that you return for a follow-up appointment with your primary physician for further evaluation. Since this is a surgical procedure, it is best to consult with your surgeon, who can provide you with a detailed explanation. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Is It Normal to Experience Prolonged Bleeding After Hemorrhoid Surgery?
Chronic Diarrhea: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
What should I do if I have persistent diarrhea? Hello, Dr. Lin! I have been experiencing diarrhea for over a year, but it's not daily. However, I have episodes every two to three days (when it's better), and every time I eat, I get stomach pain and rush to the bathroom!...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. There are many causes of diarrhea, including dietary factors (such as unclean or greasy foods), intestinal inflammation, and the presence of growths in the intestines (such as polyps or tumors), as well as biliary and pancreatic diseases. Early-stage cancer may not pres...[Read More] Chronic Diarrhea: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Constipation: Tips for Healthy Bowel Movements
My intestines feel strange..? Due to my constipation issues, I visited a traditional Chinese medicine doctor before the Lunar New Year this year. The doctor told me that my intestinal function was very weak, which likely refers to poor gastrointestinal motility. He advised me to ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, (1) There are many causes of constipation, including dietary habits (abnormal intake of fluids and fiber). Additionally, there are structural issues in the intestines (such as diverticula, tumors, intussusception, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures) and functional problems o...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: Tips for Healthy Bowel Movements
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and Solutions
Gastrointestinal issues Hello, doctor! I've been experiencing gastrointestinal issues since I was 15 or 16 years old. I've seen quite a few doctors, but they all just diagnosed me with gastritis. I have been taking medication, and it usually helps, but over the past cou...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The organs in the upper abdomen include the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, abdominal cavity, as well as muscles and nerves. If there are issues with these organs, it can sometimes cause pain. If you are experiencing stomach pain, along with symptoms of ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and Solutions
Could Your Fatigue and Symptoms Indicate Liver Issues?
Am I having liver problems? I have been feeling very sleepy and fatigued lately, even after sleeping for more than 10 hours, and I still don’t feel rested. I often feel unwell, sometimes experiencing palpitations and shortness of breath, along with dizziness, eye strain, and a lo...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Pregnancy, excessive work fatigue, high stress, and endocrine disorders can all contribute to fatigue. It is recommended to consult with an internist or a family medicine specialist. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Internal Medicine.[Read More] Could Your Fatigue and Symptoms Indicate Liver Issues?
Understanding Morning Nausea and Diarrhea: Possible Causes and Solutions
Diarrhea..? Recently, I've been experiencing nausea and diarrhea every morning upon waking up. The diarrhea is yellow and watery. What could be wrong with me?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The causes of vomiting and diarrhea may include poor gastrointestinal function, gastrointestinal inflammation, contaminated food, emotional factors, infections, pregnancy, and colds. It is recommended to avoid spicy foods and beverages, and to consume a light diet while ma...[Read More] Understanding Morning Nausea and Diarrhea: Possible Causes and Solutions