Is Using a Stool Softener Safe? Insights on Digestive Health
Regarding bedside commodes? I came across a product for aiding bowel movements online, and I'm wondering if it's safe according to medical professionals. Also, why is there no related research and development in Taiwan? Are invasive methods unsafe, or could frequent use...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It seems to be similar to the functions of a bidet. The anal area has a cushion made up of blood vessels, connective tissue, and smooth muscle fibers, primarily to prevent the uncontrolled leakage of rectal contents. Invasive products are akin to a rectal examination, whic...[Read More] Is Using a Stool Softener Safe? Insights on Digestive Health
Understanding Total Bilirubin Levels: Is 1.3 mg/dL a Cause for Concern?
Total bilirubin 1.3? Hello, Dr. Lin! My total bilirubin level is 1.3, which is slightly above the normal value of 1.2, but my GOT level is 14 and GPT level is 8, both of which are normal. Is this related to anemia? My hemoglobin level is 10.6. Thank you for taking the time to res...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Elevated total bilirubin can be primarily due to increased direct bilirubin or increased indirect bilirubin. Possible causes of elevated direct bilirubin include liver diseases and hepatobiliary disorders. If the elevation is primarily in indirect bilirubin, it may be due ...[Read More] Understanding Total Bilirubin Levels: Is 1.3 mg/dL a Cause for Concern?
Is This Bump at the Anus Causing My Constipation?
Is this symptom indicative of external hemorrhoids? Hello, doctor. I have noticed a lump at the anal opening that can be pushed back in when I exert myself. Recently, I have been experiencing difficulty with bowel movements, which has caused discomfort and a feeling of fullness i...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Difficulty in bowel movements and the sensation of something protruding from the anus may indicate hemorrhoids. The anal cushions are composed of blood vessels, connective tissue, and smooth muscle fibers, primarily functioning to prevent the involuntary leakage of rectal ...[Read More] Is This Bump at the Anus Causing My Constipation?
Blood on Toilet Paper: What It Means and When to Worry
There is blood on the toilet paper after wiping? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about a situation I am experiencing. When I have a bowel movement, I do not feel any pain, and the stool is well-formed and does not have any blood mixed in. However, the first wipe after I f...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Possible rectal bleeding can commonly be caused by hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or inflammation. It is recommended to follow up with a colorectal specialist or a gastroenterologist for further examination. It is advisable to develop habits such as drinking plenty of water, ...[Read More] Blood on Toilet Paper: What It Means and When to Worry
Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Growth Concerns and Next Steps
Gallbladder polyp enlargement? Hello, doctor. During my company's health check-up last November, an abdominal ultrasound revealed multiple gallbladder polyps, with the largest measuring 0.3 cm. This year, the ultrasound showed the largest polyp measuring 0.38 cm, indicating ...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: A polyp measuring 0.3 cm has changed to 0.38 cm, which is roughly equivalent to 3-4 mm; both are considered small polyps, and follow-up is recommended. During abdominal ultrasound examinations, the measurement of the polyp may vary due to angle issues. A change from 0.3 cm...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Growth Concerns and Next Steps
Understanding Left Back Pain: Is It Muscular or Organ-Related?
Tightness and pain in the left upper back? Hello Doctor, for the past month or so, I have been experiencing discomfort under my left shoulder blade. There is a persistent tightness, and sometimes I also feel soreness. I have researched a lot and found that issues with internal or...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
How to distinguish between visceral pain and muscle soreness? Visceral pain may be accompanied by related symptoms such as abdominal pain and vomiting. Muscle pain, on the other hand, is often more localized and can sometimes be related to posture. There are now musculoskeletal u...[Read More] Understanding Left Back Pain: Is It Muscular or Organ-Related?
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist
Lower abdominal pain? Since the end of July, I have been experiencing intermittent dull pain in the lower abdomen on both sides. I consulted a gynecologist, and everything seemed fine. The gynecologist then referred me to a gastroenterologist. When I bend down, the pain on both s...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Common causes of lower abdominal pain are related to gynecological, urological, and gastrointestinal issues. If experiencing stomach pain, it is important to maintain a light and non-irritating diet. A colonoscopy primarily assesses for inflammation, polyps, and tumors for furthe...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Abdominal Pain and Black Stool Concerns
Bowel movements and gastrointestinal issues? Recently, I have been experiencing frequent abdominal pain, and the clinic diagnosed me with gastrointestinal dysfunction. Last night, I consumed dragon fruit, and today, I noticed an unusual odor in the ground pork I ate. Tonight, I s...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The consumption of dragon fruit and foul-smelling ground pork can lead to the passage of black stools. The reasons for black stools can include the intake of iron-rich foods or pigmented foods such as red dragon fruit, hibiscus, and beets, which can cause stools to appear reddish...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Abdominal Pain and Black Stool Concerns
Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Causes, Risks, and Coffee Consumption
Gallbladder polyp Hello Doctor, I recently had a comprehensive health check-up and found a 0.3 cm polyp in my gallbladder. The doctor said it is generally benign and that I don't need to worry, just to have annual check-ups to ensure it doesn't grow. I would like to ask...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Regarding gallbladder polyps, the exact causes are not well understood, but they may be related to obesity and genetics, or they may not be related at all. For simple small gallbladder polyps, it is recommended to monitor the size and morphology of the polyps. Coffee can stimulat...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Causes, Risks, and Coffee Consumption
Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Implications for Gastrointestinal Health
Interpretation of CA 19-9 Values Hello Doctor, I recently received my health check report, which shows a CA 19-9 value of 212 (compared to 180 the previous year). I have a chocolate cyst (for many years) and have been taking Danazol (for three months; the health check was conduct...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
CA 19-9 is a glycoprotein found in the human body, including in epithelial cells of the pancreas, gallbladder, and salivary glands. It is also expressed in the epithelial cells of the cervical lining. An elevated CA 19-9 level does not necessarily indicate the presence of cancer....[Read More] Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Implications for Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Abnormal CEA Levels: What You Need to Know
Abnormal CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) levels in health checkup? Hello, doctor. At the end of last year, my CEA level was abnormal at 6.71. I have gastroesophageal reflux disease, and in March of last year, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and a colonoscopy. Aside...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels can be elevated in cases of mucosal lesions, inflammation, and carcinogenesis. CEA is a tumor marker primarily associated with colorectal cancer. In addition to colorectal cancer, elevated CEA levels can also be seen in other cancers s...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal CEA Levels: What You Need to Know
Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test: Implications of a 350 Index
Fecal occult blood test index: 350? If the index exceeds 100, it is considered positive. Does a higher value indicate a higher probability of colorectal cancer?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: An abnormal result from an immunochemical fecal occult blood test indicates potential issues in the colon, but it does not necessarily mean colon cancer. Domestic studies show that 40% of individuals with abnormal results from the immunochemical fecal occult blood test wer...[Read More] Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test: Implications of a 350 Index
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain Explained
Gastrointestinal issues, diarrhea? Hello doctor, I have had over 10 episodes of diarrhea in the past two days (all watery), along with abdominal pain. I consulted a physician who told me it might be an enterovirus infection and prescribed medication for me to take at home. Howeve...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
A 25-year-old male presents with abdominal pain, low-grade fever, and multiple episodes of watery diarrhea. There are no blisters on the skin or sore throat. Acute gastroenteritis is suspected, possibly related to the consumption of contaminated food, and viral infections such as...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain Explained
Understanding Back Pain and Abdominal Discomfort: Is It Pancreatic Issues?
Back pain and a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen? Hello doctor, I had an endoscopy six months ago, which indicated that I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and esophagitis. I have been on medication for six months and have lost weight from 100 kg to 80 kg, but I stil...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
A 23-year-old male is experiencing back pain and a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen, with a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) that is managed with medication and weight loss. He reports abdominal bloating, back pain, frequent belching, and occasional heart rate...[Read More] Understanding Back Pain and Abdominal Discomfort: Is It Pancreatic Issues?
Long-Term Alcohol Consumption: Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Distress and Jaundice
Long-term consumption of wine, high-alcohol beverages, and rice wine can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, vomiting, and mild jaundice? Hello doctor, this is my first time asking a question here... My boyfriend is 8 years older than me. He has recently quit betel nut after a l...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Gastrointestinal discomfort, daily vomiting, slight yellowing of the sclera, lack of appetite, easy fatigue, along with a history of hypertension and heart disease? It is advisable to first check for jaundice and liver or gallbladder diseases. Long-term alcohol consumption...[Read More] Long-Term Alcohol Consumption: Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Distress and Jaundice
Understanding Loss of Appetite and Nausea: Insights from Gastroenterology
Loss of appetite, nausea, and the urge to vomit? Hello, I would like to inquire about my condition. At the end of December last year, I suddenly experienced weakness and numbness in both legs, to the point where I couldn't stand straight. A few days later, my hands also star...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You are experiencing loss of appetite and nausea. The gastroscopy and abdominal ultrasound examinations did not reveal significant issues. It is advised to identify the underlying cause in order to provide targeted treatment. Autoimmune diseases and related complications s...[Read More] Understanding Loss of Appetite and Nausea: Insights from Gastroenterology
Understanding Rectal Pain After Diarrhea: Causes and Solutions
On a certain day, abdominal diarrhea led to a dull pain near the rectum? Since experiencing multiple episodes of diarrhea one day, I have felt a persistent dull pain in the area between my tailbone and upper buttocks. This sensation often triggers a feeling of needing to have a b...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It is possible that gastroenteritis has not yet resolved or that you may have irritable bowel syndrome. Please pay attention to a light diet and avoid spicy foods, and develop a good habit of daily bowel movements. If symptoms persist, please follow up with a clinic for further e...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Pain After Diarrhea: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Appendectomy: Do You Need Inflammation to Remove Your Appendix?
Appendectomy/Appendiceal resection Hello, Dr. Lin. Due to a family history of cancer, I would like to have my appendix/cecum removed. Is it necessary for the appendix/cecum to be inflamed in order to have it removed, or can I decide to have it removed on my own?
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is recommended to discuss with a surgeon. Health insurance covers appendectomy for appendicitis, but if there is no inflammation, the surgery is likely not covered. According to surgeons, there were preventive appendectomies performed on former seamen who were concerned...[Read More] Understanding Appendectomy: Do You Need Inflammation to Remove Your Appendix?
Understanding Changes in Stool Color After Gastrointestinal Issues
Bowel issues Hello doctor, a couple of days ago after dinner, I felt discomfort in my stomach and had several bowel movements. I visited a clinic where the doctor diagnosed me with gastroenteritis and prescribed medication. After taking the medication for two days, I noticed that...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: After taking medication for gastroenteritis and diarrhea, if the stool color is dark green, it may be caused by the antibiotics. Stool color can be related to food and medications; consuming iron-rich foods can result in darker stools, and certain antibiotics can also dark...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool Color After Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Small or Unformed Stool: When to See a Gastroenterologist
Small or unformed stools? Hello doctor, for the past two months, my stools have been smaller or unformed, and sometimes I experience diarrhea. When I am aware, I can no longer pass large stools. The color of my stools is yellow-brown, which seems normal. I go to the bathroom seve...
Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It is recommended to pay attention to your diet and avoid greasy foods. Given your age and symptoms, the most common possibility may be irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is advisable to maintain good dietary hygiene, manage stress, engage in moderate exercise, and ensure ...[Read More] Understanding Small or Unformed Stool: When to See a Gastroenterologist