How to Lower High Bilirubin Levels for Better Health?
Elevated bilirubin levels? I was diagnosed with hepatitis C in October, and while my levels are still normal, my bilirubin is elevated, which has prevented me from obtaining insurance. Is there a way to lower bilirubin levels? Thank you!
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. Elevated jaundice indicates an increase in bilirubin levels in the blood, which can be caused by hemolysis, acute hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, bile duct obstruction, among others. Treatment methods vary depending on the underlying cause. 2. Hepatitis ...[Read More] How to Lower High Bilirubin Levels for Better Health?
Impact of Steroid Use on Liver Function: Understanding Your Health Report
Do steroids affect liver function? In the past two years, I underwent extensive steroid treatment for chronic urticaria, which led to numerous side effects. Fortunately, this year I have not experienced any urticaria flare-ups, and the moon facies and buffalo hump have finally di...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, your liver enzyme levels are abnormal, indicating inflammation of the liver. The causes of liver inflammation include viral hepatitis (A, B, C, D, E), as well as alcohol, medications, chemicals, fatty liver, metabolic diseases, autoimmune diseases, liver abscesses, and liv...[Read More] Impact of Steroid Use on Liver Function: Understanding Your Health Report
Effective Solutions for Chronic Constipation and Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello, I have been experiencing chronic constipation, and drinking yogurt has not been effective. Sometimes using glycerin does not work either, which is quite severe. I had an endoscopy that showed gastric inflammation, and as a result, I have a stro...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, long-term constipation, poor appetite, and gastrointestinal discomfort should prompt an evaluation to rule out any gastrointestinal lesions or tumors. Additionally, constipation can be related to emotional factors, medications, and endocrine disorders. It is advisable to c...[Read More] Effective Solutions for Chronic Constipation and Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Understanding Hemangiomas in the Gallbladder: Symptoms and Concerns
There is a hemangioma in the gallbladder? Hello, I am a carrier of hepatitis B (vertically transmitted). During a routine check-up, a hemangioma was found in my liver, measuring 2 centimeters. I would like to ask... what kind of discomfort might I experience? What symptoms should...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. Most intrahepatic tumors are asymptomatic, with only a few presenting abdominal pain. 2. The etiology of hemangiomas is unknown, and they may also occur in other locations. 3. I'm not sure if you are referring to a tumor near the liver or one within the gall...[Read More] Understanding Hemangiomas in the Gallbladder: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Bloating: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Bloating Hello, I have been experiencing long-term stomach pain, which feels like bloating in the area below the chest cavity. When I press on it, I can feel a gurgling sensation, which seems to provide some relief. Sometimes, I feel the urge to vomit. I have undergone an endosco...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, long-term gastric bloating may be caused by conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, issues with the gallbladder, bile ducts, or pancreatic ducts, gastrointestinal cancers, or functional dyspepsia, which is also known as non-ulcer dyspepsia. This condition is often ass...[Read More] Understanding Bloating: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Understanding Rectal Swelling During Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
What is going on with the buttocks? Hello Doctor: When I strain during a bowel movement, my abdomen pushes out and my anus gradually swells. When I stop straining, the swollen tissue slowly goes back to normal. What could be causing this?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, possible conditions include internal hemorrhoids and anal skin tags. It is recommended to develop good bowel habits and reduce straining during defecation. You may consider visiting a colorectal surgery clinic for an examination. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Internal Medic...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Swelling During Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Symptoms: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
I would like to ask if my symptoms are indicative of a boil? Hello, Dr. Lin. I would like to ask... Recently, I have been experiencing pain during bowel movements, specifically a tearing sensation when the stool passes through the anus. Additionally, I often notice some blood whe...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Response: Hello, 1. Anal pain with bleeding, sometimes accompanied by itching, may indicate hemorrhoids, but differential diagnoses include anal fissures, anal abscesses, anal dermatitis or infections, ulcerative colitis, proctitis, and tumors. 2. If it is indeed hemorrhoids,...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
Understanding Abnormal Bowel Movements: When to Seek Medical Advice
I would like to inquire about bowel movement issues? Hello, Dr. Lin. I would like to ask you a question on behalf of my boyfriend. He usually has a regular bowel movement in the morning, but recently he has been experiencing a second bowel movement about half an hour after the fi...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Each person's bowel habits and frequency vary. An increase in bowel movements can sometimes be related to diet, emotions, lifestyle, or inflammation. Your boyfriend has a history of gastrointestinal issues and has undergone surgery, so it is advisable for him to ...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Bowel Movements: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Diverticulitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention Tips
Diverticulitis Hello Dr. Lin, I previously had diverticulitis and received treatment at the hospital. Since then, I haven't experienced any pain, so I haven't returned for follow-up visits. However, recently I've started to feel pain in my lower right abdomen aga...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. Pain in the lower right abdomen has many differential diagnoses, including diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, appendicitis, urinary stones, and muscle strain, among others. 2. If diverticula are present, it is important to be aware of complications s...[Read More] Understanding Diverticulitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention Tips
Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Right upper quadrant pain? Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I started experiencing pain in the upper right abdomen (just below the rib cage). I visited a small clinic where the physician performed a simple ultrasound but did not indicate any specific issues. Now, the pain has shifte...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Response: Hello, 1. Differential diagnoses for right upper quadrant pain include a. renal and urinary tract stones, b. gastrointestinal inflammation or ulcers, c. liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic diseases, d. neuropathic pain, among others. 2. If the pain does not improve, it i...[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Hemorrhoid Surgery: Key Questions and Insights
Hemorrhoids Hello Dr. Lin, I apologize for bothering you! I would like to inquire about information regarding hemorrhoid surgery. I previously had an examination at Taipei Hospital and was diagnosed with internal hemorrhoids, which cannot be reduced manually and require surgery ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. The hospitalization duration is approximately 2 to 3 days. 2. After the surgery, there will be pain around the anus for about 2 weeks. The time to return to normal work varies by individual, and the nature of the job, particularly whether it involves frequent ...[Read More] Understanding Hemorrhoid Surgery: Key Questions and Insights
Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission: Can Kissing Spread the Virus?
Transmission routes of Hepatitis B? Hello Doctor: I have been diagnosed as a "healthy carrier of hepatitis B." Can I transmit the virus to my girlfriend through kissing? Additionally, I came across a report that I am unsure was answered by a doctor or posted by a random...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. In the first scenario, saliva can be infectious. If a person is infected with Hepatitis B and the virus is replicating, it is possible to transmit the virus to others if it comes into contact with an open wound. 2. This issue is debated regarding the effectiv...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission: Can Kissing Spread the Virus?
Managing Long-Term Gas, Constipation, and Anxiety: When to Seek Help
Long-term flatulence, constipation, and emotional tension? I recently discovered that I have been dealing with excessive gas issues since I was in junior high school (around 14 years old). This problem has persisted, especially since I attended a vocational night school while wor...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, emotions can affect gastrointestinal motility and gastric acid secretion. Many young people experience bloating and constipation, which can be quite distressing. A lot of these cases are functional dyspepsia. It is recommended to relax, avoid excessive stress, pay attentio...[Read More] Managing Long-Term Gas, Constipation, and Anxiety: When to Seek Help
Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: When to Seek Further Imaging
Hepatic hemangioma Hello, Dr. Lin. I would like to ask the following question. I was diagnosed as a carrier of hepatitis B over a decade ago. Therefore, I have been getting checked every six months to a year. Currently, my AST and ALT levels, as well as alpha-fetoprotein, are all...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, this issue should be discussed with your physician. Tumors can present in very typical ways, resembling hepatocellular carcinoma or hemangiomas. If the distinction is not clear and there is a possibility of liver cancer, further imaging studies are necessary. In cases of s...[Read More] Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: When to Seek Further Imaging
Symptoms of High Triglycerides and Effective Improvement Strategies
What are the symptoms of high triglycerides and how can they be improved? Elevated triglyceride levels can lead to various symptoms and health issues. Common symptoms may include: 1. Abdominal pain 2. Nausea 3. Fatigue 4. Pancreatitis (in severe cases) To improve high triglycer...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. Elevated triglycerides are a type of hyperlipidemia, which can lead to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. Triglyceride levels greater than 1000 mg/dL can trigger acute pancreatitis. 2. Treatment options: a. Lifestyle modifications - including dietary c...[Read More] Symptoms of High Triglycerides and Effective Improvement Strategies
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Regarding rectal bleeding? Doctor, I would like to ask about an issue I experienced last night. I had a bowel movement, and what came out was almost entirely bright red blood, but I did not feel any pain. Today, my bowel movement was normal. Could this indicate a problem with my ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the presence of blood in the stool is often related to issues with the anus or rectum. The most common causes include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammation, diverticula, and tumors. These conditions do not always present with pain. It is advisable to avoid excessive str...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Frequent Hunger Pangs: Understanding Your Digestive Health Issues
Frequent hunger? I have been experiencing frequent hunger pangs this week and I'm unsure if it's due to stomach pain or abdominal discomfort. Sometimes I even wake up in the middle of the night to eat, and after eating, the discomfort goes away. This has been happening ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, when you feel hungry, you may experience discomfort in your stomach. Eating something can improve this sensation. Common causes include gastritis or duodenitis. It is advisable to pay attention to your diet and avoid irritating foods (such as those that are too sweet, too ...[Read More] Frequent Hunger Pangs: Understanding Your Digestive Health Issues
Understanding Elevated GPT and Hemoglobin Levels in Hepatitis B Carriers
I would like to ask two questions? I would like to ask about the following: First, GPT is elevated (71 U/L), and second, hemoglobin is elevated (17.4 g/dL). What do these two values represent, and how can I lower them? P.S. I am a carrier of hepatitis B, with a positive hepatitis...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Response: Hello, 1. Elevated GPT: The GPT level is between 1 to 2 times the normal range, indicating abnormal liver function. Although it is not significantly high, it suggests liver inflammation. It is important to identify the cause of the inflammation, which may include drug...[Read More] Understanding Elevated GPT and Hemoglobin Levels in Hepatitis B Carriers
Understanding Gallstones: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Gallstones Recently, I went for a health check-up with my husband, and the doctor performed an abdominal ultrasound and X-ray, which revealed that I have gallstones. This made me realize why I often feel fatigued, have headaches, and generally have lower energy levels than others...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the exact cause of gallstone formation is still not fully understood. Women, individuals with obesity, those with cirrhosis, and patients with hemolytic diseases are at a higher risk. Approximately 20-40% of patients with gallstones experience symptoms, which include upper...[Read More] Understanding Gallstones: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Blood in Stool: Understanding Potential Causes and Concerns
Blood in the stool? Hello Doctor: On September 6th, after having a bowel movement, I noticed that the toilet was filled with blood, and there was a bit of blood on the toilet paper after wiping. I have been having regular bowel movements every day, so I thought I would wait a day...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the presence of blood in the stool may indicate anal or rectal conditions. Common causes include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammation, tumors, and diverticula. It is recommended to consult a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist for further examination. Sincerely,...[Read More] Blood in Stool: Understanding Potential Causes and Concerns