Understanding Esophageal Reflux: Treatment Options and Surgical Considerations
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Dear Doctor: I started experiencing gastroesophageal reflux issues about a year ago after traveling abroad. I have been taking over-the-counter antacids for about a year, which provided some improvement; however, I still experienced intermit...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) suppress gastric acid secretion, so during gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the absence of gastric acid prevents discomfort. However, once the medication is discontinued, gastric acid secretion resumes, and symptoms may reappear. T...[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Reflux: Treatment Options and Surgical Considerations
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Digestive Health and Treatment
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor: Since January of this year, my bowel movements have not been normal. Each time I have a bowel movement, there are many undigested food particles, and the shape is quite abnormal. I have also noticeably lost weight and feel easily fatigued. My...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If there is a significant weight loss (more than 10% of the original body weight) but appetite remains good, it may be necessary to consider hyperthyroidism or diabetes. If diarrhea is also present, issues related to small intestine absorption or pancreatic digestion shoul...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Digestive Health and Treatment
Understanding Post-Meal Diarrhea: Causes and Considerations
Diarrhea after eating? Hello Dr. Yuan: My spouse has been experiencing immediate bowel movements after eating since her hysterectomy over a year ago. However, this year, she has started to experience abdominal pain and diarrhea right after eating. We are unsure of the cause. What...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: After eating, it can stimulate colonic peristalsis, which may lead to the urge to have a bowel movement. If there is no weight loss, along with symptoms such as rectal bleeding, anemia, fever, and fluctuating symptoms—especially if relief occurs after a bowel movement, wit...[Read More] Understanding Post-Meal Diarrhea: Causes and Considerations
Understanding Bloating During Meals: Causes and Solutions
Feeling bloated after eating? Hello, doctor! For the past week, I have occasionally experienced a feeling of fullness in my abdomen while eating, which forces me to pause and rest before continuing. Additionally, I feel that my appetite has decreased; I get full after eating only...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Sometimes, colds caused by infections can present with gastrointestinal symptoms. It is recommended to have a light diet and eat small meals frequently. If the symptoms gradually improve, there is no cause for concern. Sincerely, Dr. Yuan Hong-Dao, Internal Medicine.[Read More] Understanding Bloating During Meals: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Bowel Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Issues
Bowel discomfort? Recently, I have been experiencing difficulty with bowel movements, but it is not constipation. I have a large appetite, yet my stool volume has decreased (I have daily bowel movements) and I always feel like I am not completely emptying my bowels. It takes a lo...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If there is no family history of colorectal cancer and symptoms such as weight loss and bleeding are present, it may still be caused by abnormal intestinal motility. I recommend drinking plenty of water, eating more papaya, bananas, and vegetables, and increasing physical ...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Issues
Understanding Esophageal Cancer: Treatment Options and Dietary Considerations
Esophageal cancer My father went to the hospital a few days ago for an endoscopy. The doctor informed him that he has esophageal cancer and mentioned that it is not serious enough to require surgery. However, the doctor did not perform a biopsy, so I would like to ask if it is re...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: A pathological biopsy is essential for confirming the diagnosis of esophageal cancer. If it is indeed esophageal cancer, it is currently recommended to undergo chemotherapy combined with local radiotherapy, as the treatment outcomes are comparable to surgery. I suggest dis...[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Cancer: Treatment Options and Dietary Considerations
Understanding Hemangiomas: Risks, Dietary Considerations, and Management
Hemangioma Is there any harm in not removing a hemangioma? Should dietary considerations or other issues be taken into account?
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If it is a hepatic hemangioma, generally no treatment is required, and it will not have any adverse effects. A diet similar to that of a normal person is acceptable. However, it is still recommended to have regular follow-ups, and if there are no changes, you can be reassu...[Read More] Understanding Hemangiomas: Risks, Dietary Considerations, and Management
Understanding Liver Health: Concerns About Elevated Triglycerides and Treatment Options
Liver function tests (LFTs) I previously underwent a health check-up and found that my triglyceride level was 509 mg. They prescribed me a strong liver medication. Could this be problematic? Should I inform my doctor that my grandfather also passed away due to liver disease? Addi...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The "triglyceride index" refers to the level of triglycerides in the blood. If this is the case, dietary changes should be considered first (avoid greasy foods, abstain from alcohol, and increase vegetable intake; if overweight, weight loss is recommended) along ...[Read More] Understanding Liver Health: Concerns About Elevated Triglycerides and Treatment Options
What to Do If You Swallow Your Orthodontic Appliance?
If you accidentally swallowed your orthodontic retainer, here are the steps you should take: 1. **Stay Calm**: Try to remain calm and avoid panicking. 2. **Assess Symptoms**: Monitor yourself for any unusual symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe abdominal ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: I'm not sure how large your dental braces are or if there are any sharp protrusions. If they are not too large (less than 4 cm in length), they will generally pass through your system and be expelled with your stool within a few days, and there should be no cause for ...[Read More] What to Do If You Swallow Your Orthodontic Appliance?
Managing Lactose Intolerance: Tips and Medication Options
How should lactose intolerance be managed? Hello, doctor! I have lactose intolerance, and when I drink milk, my stomach becomes upset, I experience excessive gas, and I have diarrhea. However, I really enjoy the rich creamy flavor of fresh milk. I would like to know if there are ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Eastern people typically experience a decrease in lactose-digesting enzymes as they age. Besides gradually increasing milk intake, there aren't many particularly effective methods. Alternatively, you could try yogurt or goat's milk. Sincerely, Dr. Yuan Hongdao, I...[Read More] Managing Lactose Intolerance: Tips and Medication Options
Improving Bowel Movement After Accident: Understanding Gut Function and Recovery
My friend has slower intestinal motility than average due to a car accident? My friend was in a car accident, and since then, they have been experiencing irregular bowel movements, sometimes not having a bowel movement for 3-4 days. Their intestinal motility seems to be slower th...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The intestines are controlled by the autonomic nervous system, and bowel movements require the coordination of various muscles and nerves to successfully expel stool. I'm not sure which part of your friend's body was injured, but if it is a brain or spinal cord i...[Read More] Improving Bowel Movement After Accident: Understanding Gut Function and Recovery
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
It hurts so much..? Hello, Dr. Yuan... For the past year or two, I have been experiencing significant discomfort in my gastrointestinal tract. Often, I wake up in the middle of the night with severe stomach pain. Recently, regardless of whether I eat or not, my intestines seem to...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you experience upper abdominal pain at midnight that improves after eating, you may need to consider a duodenal ulcer. It is recommended to undergo an endoscopy for confirmation. Additionally, if you have bloating, gas, and rapid intestinal motility but are gaining weig...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Is Chewing Gum Safe for Kids? Gastrointestinal Concerns Explained
Chewing gum If a child accidentally swallows chewing gum, will it cause gastrointestinal problems?
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Generally, swallowing chewing gum is not a concern, but do pay attention to any abdominal pain, vomiting, or bloating. If any of these symptoms occur, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Sincerely, Dr. Yuan Hong-Dao, Internal Medicine.[Read More] Is Chewing Gum Safe for Kids? Gastrointestinal Concerns Explained
Understanding Discomfort in the Left Abdomen: Causes and Solutions
Pain Hello Doctor: I am unsure of the cause, but I am experiencing significant discomfort in the area about a fist's width to the left of my navel. It feels like a contraction or knotting sensation that lasts for a long time (about half an hour or more before it eases). It d...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello; left abdominal pain may be due to urinary tract stones, intestinal issues, or problems with the stomach or pancreas. It is recommended that you seek medical evaluation for a definitive diagnosis. A small hard lump below the rib cage that has not changed may simply be a sub...[Read More] Understanding Discomfort in the Left Abdomen: Causes and Solutions
Managing Elevated HBV Levels After 1.5 Years of Liver Treatment
Liver An Neng Treatment (Forwarded from the Director's Mailbox) After 1 year and 6 months of treatment with Hepatitis B medication, the results show that GOT and GPT levels are normal, but the HBV DNA test indicates a level of 350,000. What should be the next steps in manage...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Generally, Hepatitis B antiviral therapy should be continued until the e-antibody is positive and HBV DNA is undetectable for at least an additional 6 months. Therefore, in your case, you should continue taking the antiviral medication. Sincerely, Dr. Yuan Hong-Dao, Intern...[Read More] Managing Elevated HBV Levels After 1.5 Years of Liver Treatment
Understanding Nocturnal Stomach Noises and Abdominal Discomfort After Dinner
Stomach rumbling? Hello, I have two questions to ask. 1. In recent years, I have occasionally heard my stomach making noises similar to hunger sounds at night after having dinner, but I didn't pay much attention to it. Recently, I have been hearing it more often. Is this n...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. This is the reason for increased gastrointestinal motility, provided there is no abdominal pain, vomiting, or other related issues. 2. If there is no weight loss, anemia, diarrhea, or fever, and the symptoms are intermittent, it is most likely functional dyspepsia cause...[Read More] Understanding Nocturnal Stomach Noises and Abdominal Discomfort After Dinner
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Gastrointestinal discomfort Recently, after eating, I feel like food is stuck in my esophagus and my stomach becomes very bloated. I constantly feel the urge to burp, but it feels blocked and I can't. It seems like if I do burp, I might also vomit the food. What could be the...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: It may be a functional disorder caused by abnormal gastrointestinal motility, or it could be due to pathological changes in the digestive tract. If there is weight loss, anemia, blood in the stool, fever, or if symptoms persist and worsen, it is advisable to seek medical e...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Accurate Diagnosis Methods for Gastrointestinal and Pancreatic Disorders
Methods for diagnosing gastrointestinal, liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic diseases? 1. Dr. Yuan, what tests can provide the most accurate diagnosis for pancreatic diseases, especially chronic pancreatitis? Is MRI reliable? 2. What is a small bowel endoscope? Is a small bowel en...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, 1. For chronic pancreatitis, the most sensitive test should be the assessment of exocrine function (such as the secretin stimulation test). However, due to the time-consuming nature of the test and the limited number of patients who require it, almost all hospitals do no...[Read More] Accurate Diagnosis Methods for Gastrointestinal and Pancreatic Disorders
Should You Go to the Bathroom at First Urge or Wait? A Gastroenterology Perspective
Bowel urge Is it better to go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, or should you wait until the urge is stronger to ensure a complete evacuation? I often feel like my bowel movements are not fully complete.
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: I have not seen any research reports on this topic, but it seems that having a strong urge to defecate leads to a more complete bowel movement. Sincerely, Dr. Yuan Hongdao, Internal Medicine.[Read More] Should You Go to the Bathroom at First Urge or Wait? A Gastroenterology Perspective
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Seeking Answers for Unexplained Symptoms
Gastrointestinal discomfort? I am a 44-year-old male, and since July of last year, I have been experiencing the following symptoms: dull pain in the upper left abdomen (between the ribs and the navel, but pressing on it does not cause pain), bloating (gas is expelled both from th...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: I would like to know if you experience frequent bowel movements, have large stool volume, or if your stools are oily and float on the water's surface. If so, it may be necessary to consider issues related to the small intestine or pancreas, and further examination of ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Seeking Answers for Unexplained Symptoms