Gastrointestinal discomfort, Family Medicine FAQ

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COVID-19 Symptoms or Autonomic Nervous System Disorder?

Is it a symptom of the confirmed diagnosis or is there an additional complication of autonomic nervous system dysfunction? Hello, doctor. I would like to explain that I am experiencing a second diagnosis of COVID-19 and I have a history of mitral valve prolapse with regurgitation...


Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, whether or not a diagnosis is confirmed should still be determined by viral testing. However, it is difficult to confirm the presence of the aforementioned discomfort symptoms based on experience and clinical research. It is advisable to seek appropriate treatment or manag...

[Read More] COVID-19 Symptoms or Autonomic Nervous System Disorder?


Accidentally Swallowed a Broken Toothpick: What to Do Next?

I accidentally swallowed a broken piece of an ABS food-grade toothpick, approximately 0.3 cm in length, while using it to clean my teeth? On April 22nd, after dinner at 9 PM, I used a food-grade ABS toothpick to clean my teeth, but it seems to have broken off about 0.3 cm! I acci...


Dr. Chen Bozhang Reply:
It should be excreted with the stool, and any gastrointestinal discomfort should be monitored; seek medical attention if necessary. Thank you.

[Read More] Accidentally Swallowed a Broken Toothpick: What to Do Next?


Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Raw Crab in Korea

After eating raw crab in South Korea, experiencing discomfort? Hello Doctor, I had several servings of raw crab in Korea on the night of March 4th this year, but I did not experience any discomfort at that time. After returning home, I developed a fever and gastrointestinal disco...


Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Since the symptoms of lung fluke infection are similar to those of gastroenteritis, and the incubation period can last from 6 to 10 weeks, if you are concerned, you may want to undergo a stool examination and seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.

[Read More] Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Raw Crab in Korea


Understanding Fluctuations in HbA1c Levels: A Month of Concerns

There is significant fluctuation in glycated hemoglobin levels within a month? Hello Doctor: Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions despite your busy schedule. In my family, aside from my parents, my aunts, uncles, and both sets of grandparents have diabetes, so I a...


Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! First, you should understand that glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is an indicator of average blood glucose levels over the past three months, so testing on different dates reflects average blood glucose status during different periods. Any factors that affect calorie intake an...

[Read More] Understanding Fluctuations in HbA1c Levels: A Month of Concerns


Understanding Anemia: Iron Deficiency vs. Thalassemia in Blood Tests

Anemia issues Hello, Doctor. Here are my routine blood test results from my health check-up. I would like to ask whether I have iron deficiency anemia or thalassemia. Additionally, if it is iron deficiency anemia, would you recommend intravenous iron supplementation? Would there ...


Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! Based on the information you provided, it is indeed possible that you have iron deficiency anemia. Supplementing with iron is not an issue; however, iron injections may raise concerns about allergic reactions. Given your recent test results, oral supplementation should suf...

[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Iron Deficiency vs. Thalassemia in Blood Tests


Understanding Drug Interactions: Duloxetine and NSAIDs Safety

Drug interactions I have been taking duloxetine (Cymbalta) daily for nerve pain. Recently, I have a cold and ear pain and would like to take NSAIDs, but I read online that they should not be taken together. Should I avoid taking them for the entire day, or is there a specific tim...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Taking Duloxetine and NSAIDs together may increase the risk of bleeding, with gastrointestinal bleeding and skin bruising being more common, especially in patients who are older or have a history of gastrointestinal ulcers or other chronic conditions (such as liver or kidn...

[Read More] Understanding Drug Interactions: Duloxetine and NSAIDs Safety


Accidental Ink Paste Ingestion: Should You Seek Medical Attention?

Ingestion of ink paste? Hello doctor, I need to use ink paste tonight for some reason. I didn't notice that I had some on my hands and started eating. Halfway through, I realized that I might have accidentally ingested a small amount along with the food. I would like to ask ...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: If only a small amount of ink was ingested, there is actually no need to worry too much. It is recommended to monitor for any gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms, and if any physical discomfort occurs, seek medical attention.

[Read More] Accidental Ink Paste Ingestion: Should You Seek Medical Attention?


Concerns About Ingesting Hand Soap: Should You Worry?

Please ask your question, and I'll do my best to assist you? Hello Dr. Lin, today when I used a foaming hand wash, I accidentally rinsed my mouth with it. I'm not sure if any of it actually entered my mouth, but I did smell the bubbles. Although I didn't swallow th...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Ingesting hand soap usually involves a small amount, which generally has minimal impact on the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. There should not be any issues related to poisoning or alkaline burns. It is recommended to drink plenty of water and then monitor for any...

[Read More] Concerns About Ingesting Hand Soap: Should You Worry?


Understanding Eye Styes: When to Consult Family Medicine and Immunology

Inquiry about medical specialties? Hello Doctor: Since May of this year, I have been experiencing frequent styes, having developed about four of them in the past six months. Each time has been severe enough to require drainage surgery. I would like to know if, in addition to seei...


Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, you can first consult with your family physician regarding your condition. Depending on the situation, further referral for online consultation may be considered. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or t...

[Read More] Understanding Eye Styes: When to Consult Family Medicine and Immunology


Understanding Weight Fluctuations and Gastrointestinal Discomfort

Slight recovery after weight loss? Hello, doctor. About a month ago, I weighed approximately 63.3 kg, but I don't weigh myself often and only do so occasionally. This morning, after waking up, I found that my weight had dropped to 60.4 kg. Previously, I had also seen my weig...


Dr. Cai Dongqi Reply:
Hello, Xiao Lin: A weight loss of 3% in one month, 5% in three months, and over 10% in six months is considered significant. Given your age, first consider whether it might be due to poor gastrointestinal intake or absorption issues, or check your thyroid function and blood gluco...

[Read More] Understanding Weight Fluctuations and Gastrointestinal Discomfort


Unexplained Weight Loss: Possible Causes and Concerns for Your Health

Unexplained weight loss? Hello Doctor, about six months ago during my health check-up, I weighed approximately 66 kilograms. Over the past six months, I haven't made any significant changes to my diet or increased my physical activity. My meals typically consist of two a day...


Dr. Ye Qianyu Reply:
Hello! The weight loss may be due to gastritis leading to poor absorption. Please also estimate your caloric intake to see if it is lower than your daily caloric needs; if so, this could contribute to weight loss. Gastrointestinal discomfort and loss of appetite may be symptoms o...

[Read More] Unexplained Weight Loss: Possible Causes and Concerns for Your Health


Consultation on Stomach Medications for Aspirin Users

Gastrointestinal medication consultation? Hello, my mother previously took aspirin and Kangsulong. When she was taking aspirin, she was also prescribed Famotidine for her stomach. Later, due to increased use of Kangsulong, her stomach medication was changed to Pantoprazole. I wou...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Taking Aspirin and Prednisolone together can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort as a side effect, so it is usually recommended to take a gastric protective agent alongside. However, even when taking Aspirin alone, gastrointestinal discomfort can occur, which is why it is ...

[Read More] Consultation on Stomach Medications for Aspirin Users


Concerns About Vibrio Infection After Fishing: What You Need to Know

The possibility of Vibrio species in shrimp fishing ponds? Hello Doctor, I apologize for the lengthy question. I would like to ask about an incident that occurred yesterday when I went to a shrimp fishing venue for the first time. I accidentally got pricked by a fish hook on my h...


Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a bacterium commonly found in marine environments, and there are two main routes of infection. The first is through the consumption of contaminated seafood, such as oysters, clams, and raw fish. The second route is through direct infection via the skin,...

[Read More] Concerns About Vibrio Infection After Fishing: What You Need to Know


Why Am I Eating More After Recovering from Gastrointestinal Issues?

Increased appetite after recovery from illness? Hello Doctor, a while ago I experienced gastrointestinal discomfort due to autonomic nervous system dysregulation, which made it difficult for me to eat. Now that I feel better, I've been snacking a lot. I have a tendency to ga...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. The amount you eat is actually not very large, but the calorie content is high, and the food choices are poor, such as large fries, bubble tea, and bear-shaped cookies. It is recommended that you maintain a balanced intake of the "six major food groups," which...

[Read More] Why Am I Eating More After Recovering from Gastrointestinal Issues?


Craving Chocolate Snacks: Is It Hunger or a Health Concern?

I've been craving snack chocolate? Hello Doctor, recently I've been craving snacks, especially chocolate, consuming about two to three bags a day. I'm not sure if it's hunger or just a craving. At the end of August, I had a health check-up, and my urine glucos...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, your main issue seems to be having a good appetite but experiencing weight loss. In addition to considering diabetes, given your age, it is also important to consider the possibility of hyperthyroidism. For diabetes testing, in addition to fastin...

[Read More] Craving Chocolate Snacks: Is It Hunger or a Health Concern?


Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions

Gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing bloating and nausea for almost three months. I have taken medication, but my symptoms fluctuate. Additionally, I have been experiencing hair loss. The doctor suspects it may be due to autonomic nervous system dys...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: Based on the discomfort you described, it may be necessary to consider the possibility of pregnancy. Additionally, you might want to consult a doctor to check thyroid function and arrange for an endoscopy.

[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions


Why Do I Feel Dizzy After Taking Fish Oil? Understanding Side Effects

Health supplements Doctor, why do I experience dizziness and a feeling of sinking whenever I take fish oil? I've switched brands three times and still have the same issue. Am I not suitable for fish oil, or can fish oil also have side effects?


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The components in "fish oil" are Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal discomfort and an increased risk of bleeding. The components in "cod liver oil" are vitamin A and vitamin D. The side effec...

[Read More] Why Do I Feel Dizzy After Taking Fish Oil? Understanding Side Effects


Understanding Anemia: Differentiating Iron Deficiency from Thalassemia

Anemia issues Hello, doctor. I had a physical examination today, and my hemoglobin level is 12.7 g/dL, and my mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is 68.5 fL, both of which are highlighted in red. The other results are in blue. I would like to know how to determine whether I have iron d...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: The most accurate way to diagnose iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia is through a blood test. Additionally, you may inquire whether any family members also have a history of anemia. If you are concerned about bleeding, and considering you have gastrointestinal discomfo...

[Read More] Understanding Anemia: Differentiating Iron Deficiency from Thalassemia


Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms and Concerns

Gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing the following symptoms for almost three weeks: 1. Nausea 2. Loss of appetite 3. Bloating 4. Indigestion with audible bowel sounds 5. Relief after belching 6. No vomiting or diarrhea 7. Stools appear dark but are ...


Dr. Liao Yaopan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is recommended that you seek assistance from a gastroenterologist for further evaluation. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital...

[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms and Concerns


Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Remedies

Gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello Doctor, I previously inquired about issues related to nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. My symptoms have persisted for about two weeks, but they have slightly improved in the past few days, although I still feel some mild discomfort. I wou...


Dr. Lin Zhebin Reply:
Hello: 1. Your discomfort may also be caused by stress; however, it is important to first rule out other organic issues, such as gastrointestinal problems, issues with other abdominal organs, or endocrine disorders, before considering stress or other non-organic factors. Additi...

[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Remedies


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