Managing Diarrhea and Bloating: Effective Treatments and Dietary Tips
Diarrhea and abdominal bloating? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing significant gastrointestinal discomfort, with diarrhea and bloating occurring simultaneously. When I take medication for diarrhea, the bloating seems to worsen. I have consulted both general clinics...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
You have irritable bowel syndrome, and the medications you are using are appropriate. However, if they are still ineffective, other treatment methods may need to be considered. It is important to maintain good gut health to reduce the frequency of episodes, such as increasing you...[Read More] Managing Diarrhea and Bloating: Effective Treatments and Dietary Tips
Understanding Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Changes: What Do They Mean?
Hepatitis B Hello, I would like to ask about my husband's hepatitis B surface antigen, which has been positive for about ten years. However, during a health check at the end of last year, the results showed that the hepatitis B surface antigen is now negative, and the hepati...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
There are two possible scenarios. The first is that your husband has truly recovered. However, since the probability of surface antigen seroconversion is 1% per year, he may be in the second scenario, which is being a low-level surface antigen carrier. This means that for some un...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Changes: What Do They Mean?
Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Causes, Diet, and Lifestyle Tips
About gastric ulcers? I’m sorry to hear about your father’s condition. Gastric ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, are sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. The main causes of gastric ulcers include: 1. **Helicobacter pylori i...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Gastric ulcers are lesions that form in the stomach wall due to the erosion of the gastric mucosa by gastric acid. Gastric ulcers can be detected through upper gastrointestinal X-ray with barium contrast or endoscopy. In this condition, 90-100% of patients with duodenal ulcers an...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Causes, Diet, and Lifestyle Tips
Why Is My Husband Passing Gas So Often and Smelly?
Why is my gas so frequent and foul-smelling? Please help me! Dear Doctor: My husband passes gas quite frequently, averaging about every 20 minutes, and sometimes even more often. It's very foul-smelling, and I can't stand it! We often argue about this because it's ...
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 diffuses from the bloodstream into the intestinal lumen. A normal person produces approximat...[Read More] Why Is My Husband Passing Gas So Often and Smelly?
How Soon Should You Get Tested for Hepatitis C After Risky Behavior?
What about the transmission of Hepatitis C? If a person has engaged in sexual activity and is concerned about the possibility of contracting Hepatitis C, it is recommended to wait at least 6 to 8 weeks after the potential exposure to get a blood test for a more accurate result. T...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hepatitis C is the second leading cause of liver disease in Taiwan (following hepatitis B), with approximately 2% to 4% of the population infected. The primary route of transmission for hepatitis C is through blood transfusions. However, only about half of hepatitis C patients ha...[Read More] How Soon Should You Get Tested for Hepatitis C After Risky Behavior?
Blood in Stool: What to Do When You Notice Fresh Blood?
Blood in stool! I have blood in my stool every day, and it's bright red and in significant amounts. What should I do, doctor? Thank you!
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Constipation can often lead to the passage of hard stools, which may cause tearing of the anal mucosa and result in bleeding. This type of bleeding is typically observed as a few drops of bright red blood in the toilet after a bowel movement. You seem to be experiencing this situ...[Read More] Blood in Stool: What to Do When You Notice Fresh Blood?
Understanding Bloating and Borborygmi: Causes and Dietary Solutions
Abdominal distension and borborygmi? I often have a lot of gas in my stomach, or I experience abdominal rumbling. I'm not sure what the cause is; could it be due to poor gastrointestinal function? Would drinking more yogurt help improve the situation? What dietary health tip...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Frequent abdominal bloating and constipation may be caused by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the intestines, leading to the production of various toxins and gases. To alleviate bloating, it is recommended to consume high-fiber foods, as well as fruits and vegetables, while ...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Borborygmi: Causes and Dietary Solutions
Understanding Severe Constipation in Children: Causes and Solutions
My butt hurts so much? Hello, doctor. My little nephew is 5 years old now. Since infancy, his stools have been extremely large, currently more than twice the size of an average adult's. He only produces one large mass each time, and he cries in pain after using the toilet. T...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
There is no standard for the frequency of bowel movements or how often one should have a bowel movement; it is assessed based on the presence of symptoms. If there is abdominal pain, treatment is necessary. I recommend seeing a pediatric gastroenterologist to evaluate for possibl...[Read More] Understanding Severe Constipation in Children: Causes and Solutions
Blood in Stool: Understanding Constipation and Gastrointestinal Issues
Blood in the stool?! Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask about my sister. She often has bowel movements every 4 to 5 days or longer, and her stools are sometimes blood-stained. She says there is no pain in her anus, so it shouldn't be a case of anal fissures. What could this ...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
You may be experiencing constipation with hard stools, which can cause tears and bleeding in the anal mucosa during straining. This type of bleeding is different from that associated with colitis or colorectal cancer; you typically notice one or two drops of bright red blood in t...[Read More] Blood in Stool: Understanding Constipation and Gastrointestinal Issues
Managing Polyps on the Anal Sphincter: What You Need to Know
How should polyps on the sphincter be managed? Hello: About a year ago, I discovered a polyp approximately one centimeter in size on my anal sphincter. I previously experienced constipation, which has now completely improved, and I have no pain or impact on my bowel movements. Is...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The sensation of a tumor in the anus may be caused by benign conditions such as hemorrhoids or polyps, malignant tumors, or infectious lesions caused by viruses or bacteria, such as warts resembling cauliflower. It is necessary to undergo further examination, which can include an...[Read More] Managing Polyps on the Anal Sphincter: What You Need to Know
Understanding Stomach Pain: Insights on Acute Gastroenteritis and H. Pylori
Abdominal pain occurs almost once a week? I am experiencing severe stomach pain that lasts for about 1-2 days. I underwent some tests, but the doctors have conflicting opinions. Three doctors diagnosed me with acute gastroenteritis, while one doctor mentioned Helicobacter pylori....
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
There are many causes of abdominal pain, so it is important to undergo an examination first. If your pain subsides after taking antacids, it may indicate gastritis, but it could also be a gastric ulcer or a duodenal ulcer. If you have a loss of appetite or have lost four to five ...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Pain: Insights on Acute Gastroenteritis and H. Pylori
Understanding IBS-D Symptoms, Treatment, and Eye Health Concerns
excuse me? 1. What are the symptoms of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D)? Does it include weight loss? How should it be treated and how can weight be restored? Should medication be taken long-term? 2. Where can I find information or books related to diarrhea...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with diarrhea is characterized by loose stools, with the primary feature being lower abdominal pain that occurs after each meal and improves after a bowel movement. Patients may experience periodic symptom-free intervals. Weight loss is uncommon in ...[Read More] Understanding IBS-D Symptoms, Treatment, and Eye Health Concerns
Understanding Constipation: When to Seek Medical Help for Digestive Issues
Constipation Hello Dr. Yang, I often only eat one meal a day due to weight loss, which results in insufficient food intake. As a result, I am unable to have a bowel movement every day, and sometimes it takes me three to four days to have a bowel movement. Given this situation, do...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If you don't eat much, your bowel movements will naturally decrease. You can consume more high-fiber products, which will help with bowel movements and also create a feeling of fullness in the stomach, aiding in weight loss. Be cautious when eating only one meal a day, as it...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: When to Seek Medical Help for Digestive Issues
Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Symptoms and Causes Explained
Abdominal discomfort? Hello... Recently, my bowel movements have not been as normal as before. I often feel discomfort in my abdomen, frequently pass gas, and the odor is quite strong. I'm not sure what symptoms this might indicate... THANKS!!
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Your symptoms primarily involve the gastrointestinal tract, including bloating, constipation, and flatulence. This may be due to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in your intestines that are breaking down the food you consume, leading to the production of foul gases and toxins. Y...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Symptoms and Causes Explained
Easy and Portable Foods for Busy Lifestyles Without Upsetting Your Stomach
Questions about food? Hello Dr. Yang: Due to my work schedule, I am unable to eat three meals on time and often go hungry. I would like to ask what simple and convenient foods I can carry that won't upset my stomach and can help alleviate hunger. Thanks!
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If you are a woman facing obesity or overweight issues, you can consume meal replacement products such as Shupei or 3:15 to balance your nutrition while controlling your caloric intake.[Read More] Easy and Portable Foods for Busy Lifestyles Without Upsetting Your Stomach
Understanding Positive Results for Hepatitis A, B, and C: What You Need to Know
All three types of hepatitis tested positive? I recently went to a local clinic for a health check-up, and the report showed everything normal except for positive reactions for hepatitis A, B, and C. Why is this the case? Is it dangerous? [About ten years ago, I had hepatitis B, ...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Having positive results for hepatitis A, B, and C indicates that you have had hepatitis A and have recovered, which is a good sign. For hepatitis B, it is important to determine whether you are positive for the surface antigen (HBsAg) or the surface antibody (anti-HBs). If you ar...[Read More] Understanding Positive Results for Hepatitis A, B, and C: What You Need to Know
Understanding Morning Stomach Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
I would like to consult a doctor? Hello: Every morning when I wake up and still lie in bed, I experience a sharp pain in my stomach when I take deep breaths. The sharp pain only disappears when I sit up. If I take deep breaths while sitting, I do not feel any pain. Additionally, ...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Your symptoms may simply be harmless gastrointestinal spasms. To confirm the diagnosis, a gastrointestinal endoscopy can be arranged.[Read More] Understanding Morning Stomach Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Intestinal Shrinkage: Causes, Treatments, and Dietary Tips
Could you please provide more details or specify your question? I would like to ask why the intestines may shrink and how to treat it. I have undergone imaging, but the doctor could not provide a clear explanation. Could it be cancer? What dietary precautions should I take? What ...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
You can arrange for an endoscopic examination to directly observe the narrowed area. The narrowing may be due to a reduction in tumor size or external organ compression. However, it is usually necessary to consider clinical symptoms such as bleeding, weight loss, and abdominal pa...[Read More] Understanding Intestinal Shrinkage: Causes, Treatments, and Dietary Tips
Understanding Jaundice: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Jaundice What is jaundice? What are the causes of jaundice? How can jaundice be treated to reduce its severity?
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
First of all, jaundice does not necessarily indicate liver disease, and liver disease does not always present with jaundice. This is a general understanding. Jaundice is the result of the accumulation of bilirubin in the mucous membranes or skin, and the liver cells are responsib...[Read More] Understanding Jaundice: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Digestive Distress: Managing Frequent Bowel Movements
Feeling stressed every day? In the past two months, I have been experiencing frequent intestinal movements, often accompanied by bloating. During times of stress or when I am feeling down, I often feel the urge to have a bowel movement. I have undergone examinations at Renai Hosp...
Dr. Yang Guojun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Your description may indicate Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which can be classified into three subtypes: diarrhea-predominant, constipation-predominant, and mixed. Symptoms such as urgency, incomplete evacuation, and frequent bowel movements are characteristic of the diarrhea-p...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Distress: Managing Frequent Bowel Movements