Understanding Surgery Risks and Recovery for Hemorrhoids: What to Expect
Are there any potential complications after surgery? I have had constipation since I was young, and when I feel the urge to go, I tend to hold it in until I get home, which has worsened my constipation and led to hemorrhoids. Now, every time I use the restroom, the hemorrhoids be...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Your issue may be clearer if you consult a colorectal surgeon. It is likely that you need to assess the severity of your hemorrhoids to determine if surgery is necessary, as well as the potential complications of the procedure. Currently, if you undergo surgery, you will n...[Read More] Understanding Surgery Risks and Recovery for Hemorrhoids: What to Expect
Concerns About Frequent Diarrhea: Is Alcohol the Culprit?
May I ask the doctor? Hello, Dr. Lin. I would like to ask you about my father. He often has diarrhea. Could it be related to his drinking? I have told him to see a doctor, but he refuses. He drinks at least three times a week and almost has diarrhea every day. I am really worried...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Alcohol is irritating and can cause gastrointestinal damage. Long-term alcohol consumption can lead to hepatitis, cirrhosis, chronic pancreatitis, malabsorption of nutrients, electrolyte imbalances, diarrhea, and other issues. 2. It is best to limit alcohol intake and a...[Read More] Concerns About Frequent Diarrhea: Is Alcohol the Culprit?
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes and Sleep Issues: What You Need to Know
Liver issues consultation? Hello Doctor: I had tests for GOT and GPT at the end of last year. My GOT was 38.8 U/L and my GPT was 61.22 U/L, both of which are higher than the normal values. Does this indicate inflammation of the liver? Additionally, for the past few months, I have...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Abnormal levels of GOT and GPT, ranging from 1 to 2 times the normal values, indicate liver cell damage, although not significantly elevated. It is important to investigate the underlying causes, which may include viral hepatitis (types B and C), medications, alcohol co...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes and Sleep Issues: What You Need to Know
Managing Bloating in Seniors: Tips for Comfort and Relief
Bloating issues in the elderly? My mother-in-law is already eighty years old and has been experiencing severe pain in the lower right side of her chest from the afternoon until late at night for the past few days. An ultrasound examination at the hospital showed that her kidneys,...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There are many reasons for pain in the lower right side of the chest, including neuralgia, chest abnormalities, and liver, gallbladder, or gastrointestinal diseases. If taking gastrointestinal medications does not improve the condition, it is recommended to continue follow...[Read More] Managing Bloating in Seniors: Tips for Comfort and Relief
Understanding Orange Oil in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Stool with oil? After having a bowel movement, I was shocked to see orange oil floating on the surface of the water. I'm very scared and wondering what could be wrong. I've never experienced this issue before. Today, I ate an oat bar for the first time. Could this be re...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The reasons for oily stools include: 1. Excessive oily food leading to malabsorption. 2. Certain weight loss medications can cause oily stools. 3. Liver, gallbladder, or pancreatic diseases may also result in steatorrhea. It is advisable to maintain a light diet, and if sy...[Read More] Understanding Orange Oil in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Your Liver Function Test Results: What They Mean for You
Liver function index issues? Hello Doctor: Today I received the test report from the Foundation for Liver Cancer Prevention and Treatment, and the results are as follows: Hepatitis B surface antigen: + Hepatitis B surface antibody: + Hepatitis C antibody: - AST (GOT): 36 ALT (GPT...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. A positive surface antigen (HBsAg positive) indicates the presence of the hepatitis B virus in the body, meaning you are a carrier of hepatitis B. If you recover, you will develop hepatitis B antibodies, resulting in a positive HBsAb and a negative HBsAg. It is recomm...[Read More] Understanding Your Liver Function Test Results: What They Mean for You
How to Improve Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: A Guide for Patients
My total bilirubin is elevated; how can I improve this? Today, my blood test results came back regarding liver function: G.O.T (AST) 29 U/L, G.P.T (ALT) 20 U/L, Direct Bilirubin 0.50 mg/dL, Total Bilirubin 1.50 mg/dL. I went for the test because my palms appeared yellowish. What ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Your liver function tests, including GOT and GPT, are normal, but your total bilirubin and direct bilirubin levels are slightly elevated. There are many potential causes for increased bilirubin, including: 1. Acute hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis, which can lea...[Read More] How to Improve Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: A Guide for Patients
Unexplained Throat and Digestive Discomfort: What to Know
Phenomenon of unknown origin Hello Dr. Lin: In recent months, I have suddenly felt a sensation in my throat as if I want to vomit, along with a sour feeling in my larynx. At the same time, there seems to be a bit of pressure from my esophagus to my stomach. Although it is not sev...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The symptoms related to the throat, larynx, and esophagus may include esophageal and gastric conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), inflammation, ulcers, or tumors. You may consult a gastroenterologist or a general internist. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui...[Read More] Unexplained Throat and Digestive Discomfort: What to Know
Understanding Appetite Loss: When to Seek Further Medical Tests
Loss of appetite Hello Dr. Lin, I have had a habit of drinking alcohol before bed for over 10 years, consuming about half a bottle of whisky per day. However, in the past six months, I have been suffering from pain (possibly rheumatic or neuropathic, but unclear). My appetite h...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. There are many causes for decreased appetite and difficulty swallowing, including psychological disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, endocrine disorders, liver and biliary diseases, and infections. Clinically, appropriate examinations can be arranged based on the possi...[Read More] Understanding Appetite Loss: When to Seek Further Medical Tests
Understanding Anal Pain and Bleeding: Is It Hemorrhoids?
Unsure if it is hemorrhoids? Hello Doctor: For the past month, I have been experiencing significant pain in my anus during bowel movements, accompanied by bleeding, which is not just blood on the stool. Additionally, it seems that my frequency of bowel movements has increased; I ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The causes of anal pain and bleeding during bowel movements may include anal fissures, hemorrhoids, anal ulcers, inflammation, distal colorectal polyps, and tumors. If you are concerned, it is advisable to consult a colorectal surgeon for a digital rectal examination or an...[Read More] Understanding Anal Pain and Bleeding: Is It Hemorrhoids?
Effectiveness of Liver Treatments for Chronic Hepatitis B Patients from Childhood
If someone has had hepatitis B since childhood, is liver transplantation less effective for them? Hello, doctor. If I have had hepatitis B since childhood, is it true that using Hepa-Merz (肝安能) or Hepa-Boost (肝適能) would be less effective? I have seen previous questions and answer...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Currently, oral antiviral medications such as Hepatitis B antiviral agents like Entecavir and Tenofovir work by inhibiting viral replication. When the viral load is low, they can reduce liver inflammation and improve liver function. 2. Patients with chronic Hepatiti...[Read More] Effectiveness of Liver Treatments for Chronic Hepatitis B Patients from Childhood
Managing Anal Fissures: Tips for Relief from Pain and Bleeding
Anal fissure Hello Doctor, I have recently experienced anal fissures due to constipation (which means I have severe pain and even bleeding during bowel movements). I have been drinking plenty of water and eating a lot of fruits and vegetables, but the situation doesn't seem ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: In addition to dietary considerations (such as increasing water intake and fiber consumption), it is recommended to have a colorectal surgeon confirm the diagnosis. There are local or oral medications that can alleviate pain and promote healing. If there is an anal fissure...[Read More] Managing Anal Fissures: Tips for Relief from Pain and Bleeding
Understanding Occasional Rectal Bleeding: Causes and Concerns
Occasional large bowel bleeding Hello Dr. Lin, I apologize for bothering you with a question: I remember that during the winter break, after using the restroom, I noticed some bleeding... I was really scared, but it stopped after two or three days. My bowel movements have always ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The causes of blood in the stool are often due to bleeding from the anus, rectum, or colon. Common causes include anal fissures, hemorrhoids, and polyps or tumors. If you experience blood in your stool for several consecutive days, it is advisable to consult a colorectal s...[Read More] Understanding Occasional Rectal Bleeding: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Short Bowel Syndrome in Children: Challenges and Solutions
Short bowel syndrome? Hello Doctor: My friend's child has had intestinal issues since birth and has undergone multiple surgeries, diagnosed with short bowel syndrome. Now at 3 years old, the child still requires daily intravenous nutrition, and the development of the lower b...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Patients with short bowel syndrome need to pay attention to nutritional supplementation. 2. Urinary reflux in children can lead to urinary tract infections. There are methods to assess the degree of urinary reflux, and treatment options should consider the child's ...[Read More] Understanding Short Bowel Syndrome in Children: Challenges and Solutions
Understanding Yellow Liquid Vomiting: Causes and When to Seek Help
Vomiting yellow liquid? I would like to ask the doctor: For the past few weeks, I have been experiencing hiccups every day, even when I haven't eaten. Sometimes I feel the urge to hiccup but can't. This morning, I vomited and expelled a yellowish liquid that tasted some...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Hiccups and loss of appetite can have many causes, including esophageal and gastrointestinal issues, biliary problems, endocrine diseases, psychological factors, or infections. If symptoms persist, it is advisable to seek medical treatment. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Int...[Read More] Understanding Yellow Liquid Vomiting: Causes and When to Seek Help
Cost of Liver Function Tests and Considerations for Patients in Taipei
Cost of liver function tests? My father has been suffering from hepatitis B for several years. He often feels soreness in his right shoulder, but it's not severe enough that he can't lift it, and he is concerned that it might be related to his liver. I would like to inq...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. If your father has hepatitis B, it is recommended that he undergo regular monitoring, including ultrasound and blood tests, to assess the condition of his liver. 2. Right shoulder pain may be caused by issues related to muscles, bones, or nerves. 3. Currently, our hospi...[Read More] Cost of Liver Function Tests and Considerations for Patients in Taipei
Persistent Stomach Discomfort and Nausea: When to Seek Further Evaluation?
Abdominal discomfort... slight swelling in the upper right quadrant... frequent nausea and urge to vomit? Hello, doctor. I've been experiencing discomfort in my stomach for a long time. I had an endoscopy a year and a half ago, which showed some minor lesions in my stomach. ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Abdominal pain, nausea, and a desire to vomit, especially with nighttime pain, may indicate duodenal or gastrointestinal disorders, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), inflammation, ulcers, or even malignancies. If symptoms persist, it is advisable to seek me...[Read More] Persistent Stomach Discomfort and Nausea: When to Seek Further Evaluation?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Gas, Bowel Changes, and Diet
Gastrointestinal issues? Hello Doctor, I have a few questions to ask. 1. I constantly feel the urge to pass gas every day, and it seems like I can never fully relieve myself. Even after having a thorough bowel movement, the feeling only lasts temporarily, and by the afternoon, ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. There are many reasons for persistent flatulence, which are often related to dietary habits, gastrointestinal function, and emotional state. It is recommended to avoid eating too quickly; instead, chew food thoroughly and eat slowly. In terms of diet, it is advisable ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Gas, Bowel Changes, and Diet
Understanding Painful Swallowing and Burping: Possible Causes
Pain during swallowing or a sensation of discomfort while swallowing? I recently experienced dizziness and nausea, so I went to see a doctor. After taking medication in the evening, I went to bed. In the morning, I noticed pain when swallowing and discomfort in my esophagus. Eati...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is possible that esophagitis or esophageal ulcers caused by pills (commonly associated with antibiotics and pain relievers) may occur. It is recommended to take medication and drink plenty of water, and avoid lying down immediately after taking medication. If swallowing...[Read More] Understanding Painful Swallowing and Burping: Possible Causes
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: What Your Symptoms Might Mean
There are some issues with bowel movements..? Dear Doctor, Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. I apologize for any inappropriate language. Here’s my situation: One day after school, I returned home and started passing gas frequently. I felt my stomach churning and...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. The condition of bowel movements is related to diet. Consuming unclean food or excessively greasy food can lead to poor digestion and absorption, sometimes resulting in oily stools (steatorrhea). 2. Having a bowel movement once a week is less frequent than normal. It is...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: What Your Symptoms Might Mean