Understanding Digestive Issues: From Constipation to Diarrhea and Throat Discomfort
Diarrhea and a scratchy throat? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing constipation for a long time (about six to seven years), often going three to four days without a bowel movement, followed by one or two days of frequent stools. However, in the past month, I have not only bee...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Anxiety can also lead to gastrointestinal sensitivity and discomfort. If the symptoms persist without improvement, please seek treatment at an outpatient clinic. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: From Constipation to Diarrhea and Throat Discomfort
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Gastrointestinal Health
Hematochezia Hello, I have been experiencing constipation since middle school, typically having a bowel movement about once a week. In recent years, I have occasionally relied on laxatives to help with bowel movements. There was one instance where I did not have a bowel movement ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There are various causes of bloody stools, with common ones including colitis, hemorrhoids, and colorectal cancer. Based on your medical history, unless there is a family history of colitis and you are over 50 years old, the likelihood of colorectal cancer is extremely low...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Gastrointestinal Health
Can I Combine Traditional Chinese Medicine with Liver Support Supplements?
Can I combine Traditional Chinese Medicine with Gan An Neng after taking it? Hello Doctor: I have always maintained a regular lifestyle and never stayed up late, but recently I have been feeling fatigued and experiencing nausea and vomiting. Initially, I thought it was a gastroin...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Generally, there is no issue, but a small portion of people may be allergic to traditional Chinese herbs, which can lead to drug-induced hepatitis. Therefore, it is still recommended that you take liver-protective medications like Hepatoprotective agents until your liver f...[Read More] Can I Combine Traditional Chinese Medicine with Liver Support Supplements?
What to Do If You Have High Helicobacter Pylori Levels?
What should I do if my Helicobacter pylori levels are high? Hello, Doctor! Recently, I had a health check-up, and through a blood test, it was found that my Helicobacter pylori level is as high as 69.3 (normal range 0-6)! However, I haven't experienced severe stomach pain la...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Helicobacter pylori infection is quite common, and in Taiwan, it may affect up to half of the population. Helicobacter pylori can potentially cause ulcers. As for stomach cancer, it can be left untreated for now; however, if you are very concerned, you can consult a physic...[Read More] What to Do If You Have High Helicobacter Pylori Levels?
Identifying Unusual Objects in Stool: Possible Causes and Concerns
I found something unusual during bowel movement? Hello Doctor: Today, I noticed a long object about ten to fifteen centimeters in length that was the same color as my stool during a bowel movement. I'm not sure what it is; could it be a sign of ascariasis? Until now, I have ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If the linear objects are moving, they may be intestinal parasites, and it is recommended to take an anthelmintic medication. If they are not moving, they could simply be food residues. Ascaris lumbricoides are white and typically do not pass with stool. If there is no bow...[Read More] Identifying Unusual Objects in Stool: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Specialist Guidance
Right lower abdominal discomfort and pain? Hello Doctor: My mother has been experiencing dull pain in her lower right abdomen for many years. There were suspicions of ovarian issues, and she has seen a gynecologist. Recently, she has been feeling a sensation of heat, and upon exa...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There is a dull pain in the lower right abdomen, and there is a suspicion of a mass. It may be necessary to consider issues related to the colon, small intestine, appendix, ovaries, urinary system, or soft tissue. Of course, it could also be a functional issue. I recommend...[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Specialist Guidance
Understanding Digestive Issues: A Guide for Concerned Family Members
Is there a problem with the intestines? Dear Doctor: My mother is 57 years old and has had difficulty with bowel movements since she was young. She cannot have a regular bowel movement at the same time every day. Over ten years ago, she underwent surgery for hemorrhoids. In the p...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If constipation has persisted for over a decade without symptoms such as rectal bleeding, weight loss, or anemia, it is likely due to functional constipation caused by abnormal colonic motility. Insufficient lipid intake is not likely to cause difficulty in bowel movements...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: A Guide for Concerned Family Members
Understanding Intermittent Digestive Issues: Causes and Solutions
Intermittent dyspepsia Hello, doctor. I have two questions to ask you: A. For the past month, I have frequently experienced bloating. The symptoms include feeling full after eating just a little, and sometimes if I eat a bit more, my stomach feels very distended, and I feel nau...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. If there is no weight loss, anemia, or gastrointestinal bleeding, and the symptoms fluctuate, it is most likely functional dyspepsia. I recommend that you relax, avoid irritating and hard-to-digest foods, temporarily refrain from drinking milk, and engage in more phys...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Digestive Issues: Causes and Solutions
Can Baraclude Cure My Hepatitis B? Understanding Treatment Options
Hepatitis B & Baraclude I am not certain since when I contracted Hepatitis B; I suspect I had it since childhood, but my mother claims she did not have it. However, my father and sister both have it. I moved to the United States six years ago and have undergone annual health ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The definition of complete recovery from hepatitis B is the presence of anti-HBs antibodies, the disappearance of HBs antigen, and undetectable levels of HBV DNA. Treatment with Baraclude can suppress HBV DNA to undetectable levels, but only a very small percentage of pati...[Read More] Can Baraclude Cure My Hepatitis B? Understanding Treatment Options
Understanding Digestive Issues: Weight Loss, Abdominal Pain, and Nutrient Absorption
Question I am very thin and no matter how much I eat, I don't gain weight. Could this be due to poor gastrointestinal health? I often experience stomach pain and diarrhea, and my skin appears yellow. My breasts also haven't developed; could this be a result of poor nutr...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: There are many possible causes for poor absorption, including high stress, chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, and issues with the digestive system, liver, kidneys, heart, or endocrine system. It is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Sincerely, Dr. Yuan Hongdao, In...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Weight Loss, Abdominal Pain, and Nutrient Absorption
Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and Self-Care Tips
The discomfort of bloating? Dear Dr. Yuan, I have been experiencing occasional bloating symptoms for the past six months, but recently the symptoms have become more severe. Here are the details: 1. Timing: After meals or just before bedtime. 2. Bloating symptoms: Gas often gets...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Bloating can be caused by organic factors such as ulcers, intestinal obstruction, or issues related to the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, or endocrine system. It can also be due to functional problems, such as poor motility caused by stress, anxiety, or panic, or dietary fa...[Read More] Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and Self-Care Tips
Understanding Stomach Discomfort: Eating vs. Not Eating
Whether I eat or not, my stomach feels uncomfortable? Hello Doctor: For the past two weeks, I've been experiencing discomfort in my stomach, which has been quite bothersome. I can barely eat a few bites before feeling bloated; shortly after, I feel nauseous from hunger and I...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Sometimes after gastroenteritis, functional dyspepsia may occur. Thyroid issues can also lead to abdominal bloating. If thyroid function is normal but you still frequently feel uncomfortable, especially with accompanying weight loss, anemia, or gastrointestinal bleeding, i...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Discomfort: Eating vs. Not Eating
Is CA72-4 a Reliable Cancer Marker? Understanding Your Test Results
Is CA74-4 really important? Hello, Doctor. Six months ago, I experienced stomach discomfort and blood tests revealed a Helicobacter pylori level of 132. The gastric cancer screening showed CEA at 0.93 and CA19-9 at 4.54, but CA72-4 was slightly elevated at 8.51 (normal value <...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Both gastric biopsy and breath tests have good sensitivity for detecting Helicobacter pylori. If both tests are negative, it is unlikely that there is an active Helicobacter pylori infection, unless you have recently taken antibiotics or proton pump inhibitors. If ser...[Read More] Is CA72-4 a Reliable Cancer Marker? Understanding Your Test Results
Feeling Sleepy in Hot Weather: Is It Related to Fatty Liver?
I have been feeling sleepy in the past few days, but it's not due to fatigue? Hello Doctor, Recently the weather has been very hot, and I've been feeling sleepy during the day. I have fatty liver disease, which was confirmed by an ultrasound last May, and I do not hav...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Fatty liver can cause abnormal liver enzyme levels. Simply paying attention to diet, losing weight, and abstaining from alcohol can improve fatty liver and lower liver enzyme levels. Feeling sleepy should not be attributed to liver dysfunction; sometimes stress, anxiety, a...[Read More] Feeling Sleepy in Hot Weather: Is It Related to Fatty Liver?
Understanding Acid Reflux: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Acid reflux belching? Hello, I would like to describe my symptoms. Initially, I experienced shortness of breath, so I sought treatment at a traditional Chinese medicine clinic. The practitioner diagnosed me with scoliosis and pneumothorax, and I underwent spinal adjustments there...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Based on your description, it is possible that you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). I recommend eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding sweet, greasy foods, alcohol, coffee, and strong tea. If there is no improvement, you may consult a physician or vis...[Read More] Understanding Acid Reflux: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Understanding Black Oily Spots in Stool: Possible Causes and Concerns
Black oily stools after a bowel movement? In the past few days, I have noticed small black oil droplets floating on the surface of the water after bowel movements. The stools are relatively soft and a deep brownish-yellow color. On two occasions, I passed about 1cc of a yellowish...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Oily stools may indicate issues with the liver, pancreas, or small intestine, leading to poor digestion and absorption of fats. Weight loss medications may also have side effects that result in fatty stools, while honey vinegar does not cause fatty stools. It is advisable ...[Read More] Understanding Black Oily Spots in Stool: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Intestinal Adhesions: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Intestinal adhesions? Hello Doctor: My appetite is moderate, but every time I finish eating, I have a strong urge to have a bowel movement. However, when I go to the bathroom, I squat for a long time but cannot pass anything. Throughout the day, I constantly feel the need to go, ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: General intestinal adhesions may cause abdominal cramping, vomiting, and bloating. Based on your description, the likelihood of adhesions seems to be lower. If you do not have anemia, weight loss, or blood in your stool, and your symptoms fluctuate, it is more likely to be...[Read More] Understanding Intestinal Adhesions: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Chronic Diarrhea: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Diarrhea Hello Dr. Yuan: For the past month, my gastrointestinal health seems to be poor... I often experience diarrhea... However, when I palpate my abdomen, I do not feel any pain. I saw a doctor who diagnosed me with gastroenteritis... I took medication and followed a light di...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The most common causes of diarrhea are gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome, or side effects from diet or medications. If there is no blood in the stool, weight loss, anemia, family history of colorectal cancer, or worsening symptoms, it is advisable to relax, maintai...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Diarrhea: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Dealing with Diarrhea from Antibiotics: Tips for Relief
What should I do if I have been taking antibiotics for a long time and have persistent diarrhea? Hello Doctor: I have been taking antibiotics (Amoxicillin capsules, 2 capsules every 8 hours) for about a week due to apical periodontitis. However, the inflammation has not healed, s...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: You can start by taking over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication. However, if you experience bloody stools, fever, or abdominal pain, you should consider the possibility of antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis and seek medical evaluation. Sincerely, Dr. Yuan Hon...[Read More] Dealing with Diarrhea from Antibiotics: Tips for Relief
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Persistent Diarrhea and Discomfort
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Dr. Yuan, I hope you are doing well. I would like to ask you a few questions amidst your busy schedule. For the past month, I have been experiencing diarrhea and have visited the hospital multiple times. Initially, the doctor suggested it might be ga...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: I would like to know if you have experienced any blood in your stool, weight loss, fever, anemia, or a family history of colorectal cancer. If none of these apply, it is more likely that you are experiencing irritable bowel syndrome following gastroenteritis. However, othe...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Persistent Diarrhea and Discomfort