Can Hepatitis C Be Transmitted Through Kissing or Sexual Activity?
Transmission routes of Hepatitis C? Hello, doctor. I am a carrier of hepatitis C and undergo follow-up examinations every year. I would like to ask whether kissing or sexual intercourse can transmit the virus to others, or if I should avoid these activities. Please provide your r...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hepatitis C is transmitted through blood, which means that intimate contact, as well as activities such as injection drug use and tattooing, can pose a risk of infection. Your current practice of having an annual check-up is appropriate.[Read More] Can Hepatitis C Be Transmitted Through Kissing or Sexual Activity?
Why Is My Stomach Distended? Understanding Bloating and Diet at 15
Could it be that you're overweight? I am 15 years old, and my abdomen (from below the chest to the lower abdomen) is more protruded than my chest, even though I have visible abdominal muscles (I can see six-pack abs under normal circumstances). Additionally, I am not overwei...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
I think you are still obese. You can use high-frequency and low-frequency ultrasound scanning to analyze whether it is muscle or fat.[Read More] Why Is My Stomach Distended? Understanding Bloating and Diet at 15
Preventing Acute Hepatitis: Insights and Herbal Remedies for Residents
Prevention of Acute Hepatitis I am a resident of the outlying island of Matsu. Recently, I visited your clinic due to acute hepatitis, and after being diagnosed by Dr. Chen, I was given 15 packets of herbal medicine to brew and consume. However, after each dose, I feel very heavy...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Acute hepatitis is generally classified into three main categories: viral, drug-induced, or autoimmune. Each type has different management approaches. However, I do not have experience with herbal remedies, so I cannot explain why you are experiencing drowsiness.[Read More] Preventing Acute Hepatitis: Insights and Herbal Remedies for Residents
When Is Surgery Necessary for Gastrointestinal Issues?
Under what circumstances is surgery necessary? I have been experiencing frequent stomach pain lately. I have seen a doctor, but there doesn't seem to be any issues. However, one doctor mentioned that it could be a perforated ulcer. Do I really need surgery to find out?
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
You need to undergo both an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and a colonoscopy, but I believe that both examinations will likely be normal. This means that you may simply have irritable bowel syndrome and do not require surgery. Current medical advancements have made it very rare...[Read More] When Is Surgery Necessary for Gastrointestinal Issues?
Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: Growth, Treatment, and Symptoms
Will a hepatic hemangioma spread? Last May during a health check, a suspected liver tumor measuring 1 cm was found. A CT scan in June showed no abnormalities. In September, an ultrasound revealed three lesions over 1 cm, and by December, five lesions over 1 cm were detected durin...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hepatic hemangiomas may present in a multifocal manner; however, if a patient shows an increasing number of lesions during follow-up, it could be due to two reasons: 1. The patient may have had multiple lesions initially, and as their fatty liver improves, these lesions become mo...[Read More] Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: Growth, Treatment, and Symptoms
Why Is My Upper and Lower Abdomen Always Bloated?
Why is my upper abdomen and lower abdomen so distended? Since childhood, my upper abdomen and lower abdomen have always been quite large, almost like a child's belly. Now that I am 21 years old, my stomach still shows no signs of shrinking despite my bowel movements. Why won...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The chances of having worms in the stomach are extremely low; it is more likely to be obesity. You can arrange for an ultrasound scan and a stool examination to thoroughly address your concerns.[Read More] Why Is My Upper and Lower Abdomen Always Bloated?
Daily Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
I have been experiencing bloody stools every day recently? I have been experiencing a lot of bleeding during bowel movements every day. At first, I thought my period had started, as the blood comes out in a spray and flows, accompanied by abdominal pain.
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Your condition is indicative of lower gastrointestinal bleeding. The possible causes, ranked by incidence, include hemorrhoidal bleeding, anal fissure bleeding, colitis, or colorectal cancer. You may consider arranging for a sigmoidoscopy to determine the underlying cause.[Read More] Daily Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Unusual Upper Abdominal Sensations: Causes and Insights
I'm sorry, but I need specific content to translate. Please I would like to ask the doctor: I often feel a strange sensation in my upper abdomen. It's hard to describe whether it's pain or just a weird feeling when I move, dance, or breathe. It's not exactly p...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
You have irritable bowel syndrome. Please first undergo gastroscopy and colonoscopy; only after confirming that there are no issues should treatment for this condition begin.[Read More] Understanding Unusual Upper Abdominal Sensations: Causes and Insights
Why Does Jaundice Increase During Photon Knife Treatment for Liver Cancer?
Why does jaundice increase during photon knife treatment for liver cancer? Why does jaundice increase during photon knife treatment for liver cancer?
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The photon knife and embolization can both treat liver cancer, but they can also cause damage to the normal liver tissue, which may worsen pre-existing liver cirrhosis and liver function. Jaundice, usually after excluding obstructive conditions, may indicate deterioration of live...[Read More] Why Does Jaundice Increase During Photon Knife Treatment for Liver Cancer?
Post-Diarrhea Diet: Why Light Foods Matter for Gut Health
Diarrhea After experiencing diarrhea, is it advisable to eat lighter foods? The villi in the intestines are unable to absorb properly. If one consumes foods with stronger flavors, could it lead to any diseases?
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
To assess whether your gastrointestinal health has improved, you can observe two aspects. First, check if you still experience pain after eating. Secondly, you can purchase a sports drink; if you do not experience abdominal pain or diarrhea within four hours after consuming it, t...[Read More] Post-Diarrhea Diet: Why Light Foods Matter for Gut Health
Vertical Transmission Risk of Hepatitis B: Key Questions for Mothers
The probability of vertical transmission from mother to child with HBsAg positive and HBeAg negative is relatively low, typically estimated to be around 5-10%. However, it is important to monitor and manage the mother's hepatitis B infection to further reduce the risk of tra...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. The chance of transmitting this s+e antigen from mother to offspring exceeds 90%. 2. Blood tests can be conducted six weeks after the administration of the third dose. 3. It may simply be physiological jaundice, but a blood test for jaundice can also be performed at a pediatri...[Read More] Vertical Transmission Risk of Hepatitis B: Key Questions for Mothers
Understanding Hepatitis B: Carrier Status, Cure Possibilities, and Risks
Hepatitis B Hello, I would like to ask you the following questions: 1. Does having hepatitis B mean that one is always a carrier? 2. Can hepatitis B be cured? (Complete recovery) 3. Does having hepatitis B increase the likelihood of contracting hepatitis C, and is there any conne...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
1. A positive HBsAg test indicates a carrier state. 2. Currently, there are three antiviral medications for hepatitis B, and there is a possibility of a cure in the future. 3. The transmission methods for hepatitis B and C are mostly different; however, in areas where intrave...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Carrier Status, Cure Possibilities, and Risks
Understanding Constipation: Frequency, Causes, and Health Impacts
Constipation! Is it normal for me to often have difficulty passing stool or to only have a bowel movement every three to four days? How often should one have a bowel movement? I have white, flesh-like growths on my face, and a doctor previously mentioned that they are related to ...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The long-term effects of constipation primarily stem from poor internal detoxification, which can lead to obesity and darkening of the skin. To promote internal detoxification, consider incorporating yogurt and consuming three oranges daily to achieve regular bowel movements.[Read More] Understanding Constipation: Frequency, Causes, and Health Impacts
Understanding Nausea and Loss of Appetite: When to Seek Medical Help
Nausea? I used to have a normal appetite, but for quite some time now, I can only eat a little bit (about half of what I used to eat) before feeling full. If I eat even a little more, I feel nauseous and have a strong urge to vomit (sometimes, I even vomit right after eating). Ad...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
I would like to undergo an endoscopic examination for peace of mind. You can go to Sanxia Enzhugong Hospital for the procedure (you can consult Dr. Wang Shih-Hsi).[Read More] Understanding Nausea and Loss of Appetite: When to Seek Medical Help
Non-Surgical Options for Hemorrhoids: Is Endoscopic Ligation Right for You?
Can hemorrhoids be treated without surgery? I am a patient with both internal and external hemorrhoids, and the internal hemorrhoids have reached stage III. The doctor has recommended surgery. However, I am hesitant to undergo surgery due to the fear of hospitalization and the di...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Currently, hemorrhoids are primarily treated with ligation; however, in some cases, surgical excision may be necessary. If you are fearful or apprehensive about surgery, you may consider consulting another large hospital or a public hospital. If both colorectal surgeons agree tha...[Read More] Non-Surgical Options for Hemorrhoids: Is Endoscopic Ligation Right for You?
Understanding Hepatitis B: Treatment, Transmission, and Related Infections
Hepatitis B Is there a medication for it? Is it contagious? Is there currently an outbreak of colds that can cause fever due to throat inflammation? Please provide me with answers, thank you.
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The main causes of death from hepatitis B are acute hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. However, the majority of patient deaths are due to: 1. a lack of understanding of the disease's progression, which includes not realizing they are infected or knowing they are infecte...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Treatment, Transmission, and Related Infections
Are Liver Gallstones and Gallstones the Same Thing?
Gallstones? I apologize... I'm not inquiring because I'm ill... I just have a small question after seeing many headlines... I hope you can still reply to me via email~~^^ May I ask, are liver and gallbladder stones the same as gallstones!? Or are the two different?
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hepatobiliary stones refer to stones located within the hepatic ducts and gallbladder. In the early days in Taiwan, due to poor environmental sanitation, many people suffered from both liver stones and gallbladder stones. However, the incidence of intrahepatic stones has decrease...[Read More] Are Liver Gallstones and Gallstones the Same Thing?
Persistent Hiccups and Stomach Discomfort: Seeking Solutions
Diaphragmatic spasm and gastric discomfort? My girlfriend has been experiencing belching and gastric discomfort for nearly six months. Initially, it occurred about once every three days, with continuous belching each time. She describes having a lot of gas in her stomach, accompa...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
This type of diaphragmatic spasm may be related to fluctuations in the diaphragm. Taking anti-gas medications may not be helpful; instead, some neurological medications may be required. Unfortunately, this seems to be a home remedy in Western medicine, and many physicians may not...[Read More] Persistent Hiccups and Stomach Discomfort: Seeking Solutions
Understanding the Causes of Frequent Acid Reflux: What You Need to Know
Acid reflux Hello! I often experience acid reflux, at least twice a week. What could be the cause of this?
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The production of intestinal gas primarily has three sources: first, gas that is swallowed; second, gas produced from the fermentation of substances in the intestines; and third, gas that permeates from the bloodstream into the intestinal lumen. A normal person produces approxima...[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Frequent Acid Reflux: What You Need to Know
Understanding the Significance of Missing e Antigen in Hepatobiliary Health
I would like to ask a question!! The absence of the e antigen indicates that the individual is likely in a phase of chronic hepatitis B infection where the virus is not actively replicating or is in a low replication state. The e antigen (HBeAg) is a marker of viral replication a...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
In hepatitis B markers, the surface antigen (HBsAg) and e antigen (HBeAg) are envelope antigens and products of the hepatitis virus. The presence of HBeAg indicates that the virus is highly active and infectious. Conversely, the absence of HBeAg may suggest the presence of e anti...[Read More] Understanding the Significance of Missing e Antigen in Hepatobiliary Health