Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
Is this a stomach spasm? Hello Dr. Yuan: Recently, I have been experiencing a slight cramping sensation in my upper left abdomen. However, this pain is not unbearable and does not last long. It feels like a dull cramp, unlike typical stomach pain. I'm not sure what this coul...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the sharp pain in the upper left abdomen may be related to neurological issues, musculoskeletal problems, kidney diseases (such as stones), or issues with the stomach, pancreas, or colon. If the pain is not severe, there is no fever, you can eat normally, and there has bee...[Read More] Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Surgery, Risks, and Recovery
Gallbladder polyp I would like to ask the doctor about gallbladder polyp removal. 1. For a 1 cm polyp, is it recommended to remove the entire gallbladder? 2. What are the significant impacts on the body if the entire gallbladder is removed? 3. Is the surgical risk high? Is it con...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Reply: Hello, 1. Gallbladder polyps larger than 1 cm have a higher chance of becoming tumors, and it is generally recommended to surgically remove the entire gallbladder. 2. After gallbladder removal, bile will still be secreted by the liver; however, without the gallbladder t...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Surgery, Risks, and Recovery
Symptoms of Lactobacillus Deficiency: What You Need to Know
Lactic acid bacteria Hello, what symptoms might occur in the body due to a lack of lactobacilli? Thank you.
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, lactic acid bacteria are considered beneficial bacteria in the gut and should normally not be deficient. However, sometimes the use of antibiotics can lead to the death of lactic acid bacteria, allowing harmful bacteria to proliferate excessively, which can result in diarr...[Read More] Symptoms of Lactobacillus Deficiency: What You Need to Know
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Blood in Stool and Abdominal Discomfort
Distressing gastrointestinal issues and bloody stools? Dear Doctor: Since July of last year, I have experienced blood in my stool approximately ten times. The blood appears as about 5 c.c. of bright red blood on top of my stool, which is typically sticky in consistency. Only once...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, based on your description, it seems more like rectal or anal bleeding, with the most common cause being hemorrhoids. However, other conditions such as colitis, tumors, or anal fissures cannot be ruled out. If you experience constipation at times, diarrhea at other times, w...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Blood in Stool and Abdominal Discomfort
Could Bad Breath Indicate Liver Issues? What You Need to Know
Is it possible that liver issues are causing bad breath? My husband is 33 years old and has been working overtime recently. I've noticed that his breath has a severe odor, similar to carbon dioxide in a confined space, and some people think it smells like ammonia. Could this...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if there is cirrhosis or severe hepatitis, it is possible for the breath to have an unusual odor, but it should be accompanied by other symptoms such as altered or decreased consciousness, abdominal distension (ascites), leg swelling, jaundice, etc. Additionally, condition...[Read More] Could Bad Breath Indicate Liver Issues? What You Need to Know
Morning Stomach Pain: Common Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
I'm not sure why this is happening! Hello Doctor: For the past two to three weeks, I have been experiencing some abdominal pain shortly after getting out of bed in the morning. Sometimes I also feel a bit uncomfortable after breakfast. However, I don't have significant ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if you do not have a fever, anemia, gastrointestinal bleeding, or weight loss, and your symptoms have improved, it is more likely to be functional dyspepsia considering your age. It is advisable not to overeat, to chew your food thoroughly, and to avoid irritating foods. I...[Read More] Morning Stomach Pain: Common Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Managing Bloating and Burping in Bedridden Patients with Feeding Tubes
Bloating and belching? Hello Doctor, my father is 73 years old and has been bedridden for over three years. He suffers from gastroesophageal reflux disease and ulcers. He is currently being fed through a nasogastric tube. Due to his inability to move, his digestion is poor, and h...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I am not sure about the reason for your father's bed confinement. Common causes include stroke and Parkinson's disease. Prolonged bed rest, combined with conditions like diabetes or certain medication side effects, can affect the function of the intestinal muscle...[Read More] Managing Bloating and Burping in Bedridden Patients with Feeding Tubes
Persistent Urge to Defecate: Understanding Gastrointestinal Concerns
Persistent urge to defecate regardless of whether bowel movements have occurred? Hello, Doctor: I am a 26-year-old male, 172 cm tall and weighing 93 kg. My occupation primarily involves mental activities, and I have a sedentary lifestyle, especially in front of the computer, with...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if you have the urge to defecate but cannot, it may be necessary to consider rectal inflammation, foreign bodies in the rectum, external pressure on the rectum, or sensitivity of the nerves. I recommend moderate exercise, drinking plenty of water, and increasing your intak...[Read More] Persistent Urge to Defecate: Understanding Gastrointestinal Concerns
Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Solutions
The area between the chest and the abdomen is consistently protruding and swollen? Doctor: Hello! I would like to ask about the area between my chest and my abdomen, which has been consistently protruding and feels bloated. Even when I haven't eaten anything, it still appear...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the small piece of cartilage you feel just below the sternum at the center of the chest is likely this cartilage. If you are unsure, it is advisable to seek medical examination. Sincerely, Dr. Yuan Hongdao, Internal Medicine.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Solutions
Persistent Vomiting After Meals: Understanding Possible Causes and Concerns
Persistent vomiting Doctor, my husband is 33 years old and has been experiencing persistent vomiting, especially right after meals. He doesn't eat much, so I don't think it's due to overeating. This has been going on for nearly two weeks. I accompanied him to see a...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if you have not experienced vomiting in the past and have recently started to do so, it is essential to rule out some organic diseases such as peptic ulcers, pancreatic disorders, liver and biliary diseases, renal failure, intestinal obstruction, etc. Additionally, conditi...[Read More] Persistent Vomiting After Meals: Understanding Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Help
Discomfort in the lower abdomen? Hello, doctor. I often feel discomfort and slight bloating in my lower abdomen, sometimes accompanied by lower back pain (not unilateral), and occasionally it even causes leg discomfort. A gynecologist once mentioned that it could be due to uterin...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, abdominal bloating may be due to abnormal intestinal motility or gynecological issues (such as pelvic congestion, ovarian cysts, or uterine fibroids). It is advisable to consult a gynecologist for an examination. Lower back pain and leg numbness may indicate a skeletal iss...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Vomiting and Weight Loss Concerns
Gastrointestinal issues... often lead to vomiting? Hello, I have been experiencing stomach issues for quite a long time. I have been very thin since childhood and have been unable to gain weight. My symptoms include occasional stomach pain, nausea in the morning, and sometimes vo...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, upper abdominal pain, inability to gain weight, and vomiting could potentially indicate organic lesions, such as issues with the liver, gallbladder, stomach, duodenum, small intestine, or pancreas. It may also be related to endocrine problems, such as diabetes, thyroid dis...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Vomiting and Weight Loss Concerns
Sudden Severe Left Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Suddenly, it hurts a lot? Hello doctor, this morning I suddenly experienced severe pain in my lower left abdomen, and it also felt crampy when I pressed on it. It was really painful... I was awakened by the pain, and since it was only a little after six, no stores were open. I th...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, common causes of left lower abdominal pain include colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, ureteral stones, and issues related to the uterus and ovaries (such as ectopic pregnancy, endometriosis, or ovarian cysts). If the pain persists, it is advisable to consult a gastroentero...[Read More] Sudden Severe Left Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Lymphoid Hyperplasia in the Small Intestine: What You Need to Know
Lymphoproliferation? I previously had a colonoscopy (which also captured part of the small intestine), and it seems there is lymphoid tissue hyperplasia in the small intestine. A biopsy was performed, but it came back normal. However, I am still a bit concerned. Does lymphoid tis...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, during a colonoscopy, the terminal ileum may sometimes be examined as well. In this area, the intestine normally contains a higher amount of lymphoid tissue, which appears as small white protrusions during the procedure. Generally, this does not progress to lymphoma, and i...[Read More] Understanding Lymphoid Hyperplasia in the Small Intestine: What You Need to Know
What to Do If Your CEA Levels Are Elevated: A Guide for Patients
My carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level is elevated at 4.5 ng/ml. What should I do? Hello doctor, I recently completed a health check and found that my "Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)" level is 4.5 ng/ml, which is slightly elevated. I do not smoke and I am a carrier of ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the normal values for LEA can vary; some are 6, some are 5, and even below 3. The term "normal values" refers to the range of values obtained from 95% of healthy individuals, so even slight deviations from normal do not necessarily indicate disease. In clinical p...[Read More] What to Do If Your CEA Levels Are Elevated: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Chronic Constipation: When to Seek Medical Advice
excuse me? Hello Dr. Yuan, I have been struggling with chronic constipation. Sometimes I only have a bowel movement every three to four days, and there are times when I go two weeks without one. Each time, I experience severe abdominal cramps, and afterwards, I either have diar...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, if your symptoms have persisted for several years without weight loss, anemia, blood in the stool, fever, or worsening symptoms, it is likely irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is advisable to drink plenty of water, eat more fruits and vegetables, respond promptly to the u...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Constipation: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Ascites After Kidney Transplant: Causes and Solutions
Could you please provide a more detailed response? Hello Dr. Yuan, I would like to ask a question. My mother underwent a kidney transplant last year, but her health has been deteriorating this year. She previously had severe jaundice, which the doctor said was related to her me...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, the most common cause of ascites is cirrhosis of the liver. If jaundice is also present, it indicates that liver function is significantly impaired. Clinically, medications are initially used for management, and if they are ineffective, a needle may be used to drain the as...[Read More] Understanding Ascites After Kidney Transplant: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Digestive Discomfort: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Abdominal discomfort? It seems that I tend to feel the urge to use the restroom after eating. Previously, I would go 3 to 4 times a day, and my stools were a speckled coffee color, but not to the point of diarrhea. Last Monday, I visited a gastroenterologist who prescribed medica...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I am not sure how long you have been experiencing your symptoms. If it has been several months or even years without accompanying weight loss, fever, anemia, or positive fecal occult blood test, and if the symptoms are not worsening, especially considering your young age, ...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Discomfort: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Bloating, Nausea, and Dietary Tips
Gastrointestinal I often experience bloating and a strong urge to vomit, feeling more comfortable after vomiting. I always thought it was due to excess stomach acid, but recently I noticed that pressing on my stomach doesn't hurt as much; instead, the pain is around my navel...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, I would like to know if you have had abdominal surgery, whether you have experienced any weight loss, or if you have had a fever. If none of these apply, and your symptoms have been fluctuating for a long time, it could be functional dyspepsia, or possibly peptic ulcer dis...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Bloating, Nausea, and Dietary Tips
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Issues
Rectal bleeding Hello! Since childhood, I have been having bowel movements every 10-15 days, but I have not experienced any health issues. However, in the past two days, I have had bowel movements with blood, including clots similar to menstrual blood, and mild lower abdominal pa...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, having a bowel movement every 10-15 days is too infrequent. I recommend increasing your intake of vegetables and fruits, and drinking a large glass of water every morning upon waking. It's best to use the restroom before heading out. Engage in moderate exercise, and i...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Issues