Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks and Family Planning
Hepatitis B My boyfriend's mother has hepatitis B, and all three of her children have it as well. My boyfriend says he has hepatitis B antibodies. Can my boyfriend transmit hepatitis B to me? Would it be transmitted through kissing, sexual activity, sharing food, or using th...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. If your boyfriend has antibodies against Hepatitis B, it means he has immunity and will not be infected by the Hepatitis B virus, nor will he transmit it to you. 2. The transmission routes of Hepatitis B are: a. Vertical transmission, where a mother with Hepatitis B can...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks and Family Planning
Understanding Alkaline Phosphatase: Implications of Low Levels in Liver Function Tests
What is alkaline phosphatase? I would like to ask about alkaline phosphatase. I recently had a liver function test, and the report indicated that my alkaline phosphatase level is below the standard value. I would like to know what it means if it is below the standard value.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Alkaline phosphatase in the blood can originate from the liver, bones, placenta, and small intestine. Possible causes of low levels include malnutrition, hypothyroidism, pernicious anemia, and hypophosphatemia. If the levels are below the standard range, it is uncertain ho...[Read More] Understanding Alkaline Phosphatase: Implications of Low Levels in Liver Function Tests
Understanding Rectal Discomfort: Causes and Diagnostic Options
Bowel issues I have been experiencing a dull, aching sensation in the rectal area (from the lower back to the anus) for about a month. There is no abdominal pain, but I constantly feel the urge to have a bowel movement. When I do, it is mostly soft stools, and sometimes I experie...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Regarding the question raised by the patient, clinically suspected irritable bowel syndrome could indeed be associated with rectal inflammation; however, further examinations are necessary for confirmation. A sigmoidoscopy utilizes an endoscope to examine the anus, rectum,...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Discomfort: Causes and Diagnostic Options
Understanding Granular Stool: Causes and Concerns After C-Section
Pellet stool Dear Doctor: I underwent a cesarean section on December 13, 1994, and gave birth to a daughter. My bowel movements have been regular until about three weeks ago when I started experiencing 2 to 3 days without the urge to defecate. I do not feel any bloating or pain i...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Regarding the issue of showhaw in advance, clinically suspected irritable bowel syndrome may be present normally or could be due to recent abdominal surgery, as gastrointestinal motility may not have fully returned to normal. Therefore, it is recommended to increase water ...[Read More] Understanding Granular Stool: Causes and Concerns After C-Section
Understanding Evening Abdominal Pain: Causes and Diagnostic Steps
Lower abdominal pain Hello, doctor. About three weeks ago, I started feeling uncomfortable around 10 or 11 PM. Sometimes it's my stomach, and other times it's the area just below my stomach, about the size of a palm. I experience pain 3 to 4 times a week, and I usually ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The structure of the epigastric region includes the stomach, duodenum, and pancreas. If there is frequent pain, especially at night, it is important to consider whether there is an issue with these organs. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for an examinatio...[Read More] Understanding Evening Abdominal Pain: Causes and Diagnostic Steps
Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns in Gastrointestinal Health
Blood in stool? Hello: Recently, I suddenly noticed blood when having a bowel movement, and I've been experiencing persistent abdominal pain (this pain started about a month before the bleeding), similar to menstrual cramps. I have constipation but have never experienced ble...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Blood in the stool may indicate bleeding from the anus, rectum, or colon, which can include conditions such as skin issues, anal fissures, hemorrhoids, inflammation, polyps, or tumors. These conditions may sometimes be accompanied by pain and sometimes not. Since you have ...[Read More] Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns in Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Bowel Movement Issues: Causes and Solutions
Issues with the sensation of bowel movements? Since May of last year, I've been having problems with bowel movements. I'm not sure if it's due to stress or significant mood changes... I often feel the need to go to the bathroom but have to strain to pass stool. Som...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Irregular bowel movements are related to dietary habits and emotional well-being. It is recommended to relax and not be too anxious, and to develop good bowel habits. Drink plenty of water, consume more fiber-rich foods (such as vegetables and fruits), and limit spicy food...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Movement Issues: Causes and Solutions
Managing Splenomegaly: Health Tips for Hepatitis B Carriers
Splenomegaly Hello Dr. Lin, I am a carrier of hepatitis B. During a previous ultrasound examination, I was found to have splenomegaly. Could you please advise me on how to maintain my health? Do I need to take any medication? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Causes of splenomegaly include liver and biliary diseases, hematological disorders, viral infections, and should be monitored clinically. 2. For hepatitis B carriers, it is important to avoid excessive fatigue, maintain a normal diet, consume plenty of fresh foods, lim...[Read More] Managing Splenomegaly: Health Tips for Hepatitis B Carriers
Understanding Painless Rectal Bleeding: When to See a Doctor
Painless rectal bleeding? I experience bleeding when wiping after a bowel movement. Previously, it was painful, but now there is no pain, just bleeding. My sister also experiences bleeding; is there a connection? Should I see a doctor? It has been several days! Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the presence of blood during bowel wiping indicates possible lesions in the anus or rectum, commonly due to hemorrhoids or anal fissures. Less common causes may include inflammation or tumors of the colon or rectum. Symptoms of hemorrhoids or anal fissures can sometimes be...[Read More] Understanding Painless Rectal Bleeding: When to See a Doctor
What to Do If Your Hepatitis Treatment Develops Resistance?
What should be done if liver cancer develops drug resistance? Over a year ago, I started self-paying for Hepatitis B treatment with antiviral medication because I was experiencing severe dizziness every day. I didn't wait the full three months and have been on the medication...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, I recommend the following: 1. Confirm the presence of drug resistance. 2. If drug resistance is present, taking Hepatitis B antiviral medication (such as Entecavir) may be less effective. After discontinuing the medication, liver enzyme levels may rise again within ...[Read More] What to Do If Your Hepatitis Treatment Develops Resistance?
Understanding the Causes of Diarrhea and Vomiting in Your Family
Diarrhea with vomiting Recently, there have been frequent occurrences of vomiting and diarrhea at home, and it seems to be contagious. The stools are watery. What could this situation be?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, vomiting and diarrhea may be indicative of gastroenteritis. The causes of gastroenteritis can include viral or bacterial infections, as well as food sensitivities. If many people in the household are infected, it is important to pay attention to food hygiene. Generally, du...[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Diarrhea and Vomiting in Your Family
Understanding Nausea: Causes and Connections to Stress and Diet
Nausea Hello, doctor. I have a question I would like to ask you. I often experience nausea, especially when I am stressed or very busy. This feeling becomes more pronounced when I drink milk, green tea, or coffee. This has been going on for quite a long time, about a year and mor...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Response: High work stress, irregular lifestyle and diet can affect gastrointestinal nerve sensitivity, leading to increased gastric acid secretion and reduced mucosal protection, often resulting in nausea. Possible causes include diseases of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum ...[Read More] Understanding Nausea: Causes and Connections to Stress and Diet
Understanding GPT Levels During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
GPT: 50 GOT: 34 Hello, I completed a health check on October 26, and the report indicated that everything is normal (urinalysis, kidney function tests including BUN, CREA, and UA are all normal; lipid profile, metabolic tests, blood, and serum tests show HBsAg (-), HBsAb (+), ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Response: 1. GPT: Abnormal liver function tests indicate inflammation of the liver, necessitating further monitoring of liver function and investigation into potential causes of liver inflammation, such as viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, alcohol use, medications, metabolic ...[Read More] Understanding GPT Levels During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Understanding Elevated SGPT Levels: When to Seek Further Testing
Elevated S.G.P.T (Serum Glutamic-Pyruvic Trans Hello Dr. Lin: I completed my health check-up in July, and my SGPT level was above 139 U/L with a positive occult blood test. Should I undergo another examination, or is there something specific I should pay attention to? I usually d...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. A GPT value of 139 indicates liver inflammation, and it is important to investigate the causes of liver function abnormalities. Common causes include viral hepatitis (chronic B and C), alcohol, medications, and fatty liver disease. It is essential to monitor liver enz...[Read More] Understanding Elevated SGPT Levels: When to Seek Further Testing
Managing Hepatitis B: Tips for Night Shift Workers to Protect Liver Health
Hepatitis B Hello, doctor. I am a carrier of hepatitis B and have regular follow-up examinations. I currently work night shifts from 7:30 PM to 7:30 AM. What should I pay attention to in order to prevent my liver enzymes from increasing?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, please make sure to rest adequately, avoid alcohol and smoking, refrain from taking medications casually, and do not overexert yourself. Maintain a balanced diet, consume more fresh foods, and limit the intake of excessive artificial seasonings, pickled foods, barbecued it...[Read More] Managing Hepatitis B: Tips for Night Shift Workers to Protect Liver Health
Can Green Tea Harm Your Stomach? Insights for Chronic Gastritis
Green tea Dear Dr. Lin: Hello, may I ask if drinking green tea can harm the stomach? I have chronic gastritis; is it safe for me to drink green tea every day?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, green tea can stimulate gastric acid secretion, so individuals with gastrointestinal issues should consume it in moderation. For those with chronic gastritis, it is generally advised to limit the intake of caffeinated beverages, such as coffee and tea. Sincerely, Dr. Lin M...[Read More] Can Green Tea Harm Your Stomach? Insights for Chronic Gastritis
Do I Need to Revaccinate for Hepatitis B After Incomplete Shots?
Hepatitis B vaccine injection? If you received the first two doses of the hepatitis B vaccine during your second or third year of high school but did not complete the series with the third or fourth doses, and your recent health check results show HBsAg negative, HBsAb positive, ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a positive HBsAb indicates immunity against hepatitis B. Generally, the antibody levels from the vaccine may decrease over time, but a decline in levels does not necessarily mean a loss of the ability to fight hepatitis B. The third dose of the vaccine is primarily to main...[Read More] Do I Need to Revaccinate for Hepatitis B After Incomplete Shots?
Understanding the Causes of Yellow Liquid Vomiting in the Morning
Vomiting pure yellow liquid? Waking up in the morning and feeling nauseous before eating, followed by vomiting pure yellow liquid upon reaching the bathroom, could indicate several issues. This yellow liquid is likely bile, which can occur when the stomach is empty. Possible caus...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, esophageal, gastrointestinal, liver and gallbladder diseases, as well as systemic diseases, endocrine disorders, and morning sickness can also present similarly. It is advisable to pay attention to diet and lifestyle (avoid greasy and irritating foods). If symptoms persist...[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Yellow Liquid Vomiting in the Morning
Understanding Elevated SGPT Levels and Hepatitis B Vaccination Concerns
Health Check Report Hello, I have some questions: Recently, I received my school health check report and found that my SGPT level is 54 IU/L, which is above the standard value of 0-40 IU/L. Additionally, the report indicated that I do not have antibodies for Hepatitis B, but I la...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a positive HBsAb indicates immunity against hepatitis B. Generally, the antibody levels from the vaccine may decrease over time, but a decline in levels does not necessarily mean a loss of the ability to fight hepatitis B. The third dose of the vaccine is primarily to main...[Read More] Understanding Elevated SGPT Levels and Hepatitis B Vaccination Concerns
Understanding Causes of Thin Stool: Beyond Colon Cancer Risks
Possible causes of narrowed stools? Hello, I have noticed that my stool has become much thinner than before. I have heard that this could be a symptom of colon cancer. I would like to ask you about the reasons for thinner stool and if there are other possible causes besides colon...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the possible reasons for a change in stool consistency to a thinner shape may include recent changes in lifestyle and dietary habits, medications, conditions of the intestines (such as inflammation, polyps, or tumors), or systemic abdominal diseases affecting intestinal ab...[Read More] Understanding Causes of Thin Stool: Beyond Colon Cancer Risks