Understanding Elevated Bilirubin and Cholesterol Levels: Next Steps for Diagnosis
Elevated levels of total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, and total cholesterol? Hello, doctor. I recently completed a health check-up, and the results that exceeded the normal range include total bilirubin at 2.88, direct bilirubin at 0.57, total cholesterol at 246, and urine showin...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Abnormal values (with normal ultrasound) are likely due to individual constitution and do not pose a long-term health risk; monitoring is sufficient. Cholesterol can be managed through diet and medication. Pain management can be addressed by consulting a pain specialist or a fami...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Bilirubin and Cholesterol Levels: Next Steps for Diagnosis
Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound Results: What You Need to Know
Issues related to abdominal ultrasound? About a year ago, I visited a hospital's hepatobiliary and gastroenterology department due to stomach discomfort. The doctor arranged for an ultrasound and endoscopy. During the follow-up appointment, the doctor only mentioned that I h...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There should be no special findings, but please monitor for any signs of hepatitis B or liver function.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps
Elevated levels of AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein) test? Hello, I underwent a health check-up on May 25th, where it was found that my alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level was elevated at 19.3. All related liver function tests, including GOT, GPT, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, and albumin, we...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can wait for the CT scan report first, and if necessary, an MRI can be added, or you can follow up with a third blood test.[Read More] Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Muddy Stool: Gastrointestinal Concerns and Next Steps
Gastrointestinal and bowel-related issues? Hello Doctor: For the past 5-7 days, my stools have been muddy and coffee-colored. Prior to this, I experienced stomach pain and bloating, which led me to visit the emergency room for blood and urine tests. The emergency physician indica...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea improved after medication, but after three days, there are still gastrointestinal discomfort, poor appetite, and muddy, coffee-colored stools. It is possible that the gastroenteritis has not completely resolved. It is recommended to pay atte...[Read More] Understanding Muddy Stool: Gastrointestinal Concerns and Next Steps
Understanding Tumor Markers: CA 19-9 and Gastrointestinal Health
Tumor markers Hello, on May 25th, I had a check-up with a colorectal specialist due to blood in my stool, and the cause of the bleeding was identified as an anal fissure. I also requested a colonoscopy, which is scheduled for June 14th. On May 25th, I had blood tests and an X-ray...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The accuracy of CA 19-9 is low (with many false positives), making it unsuitable for screening or diagnosis; it should only be used for postoperative monitoring, so there is no need to worry at this time. You can proceed with the endoscopy first and then schedule an appointment w...[Read More] Understanding Tumor Markers: CA 19-9 and Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Upper Abdominal Pain: Is It Related to the Pancreas?
Upper abdominal pain, abdominal ultrasound concerns? Hello Doctor, over the past year, I have occasionally experienced pain in the upper abdomen, particularly in the left upper quadrant. There is usually a specific point that is painful when pressed, and sometimes it seems to be ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Pain in the upper left abdomen is more commonly associated with issues related to gastric acid. Pancreatic problems are less likely unless there is a history of long-term alcohol consumption or hypertriglyceridemia. If the symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a gas...[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Pain: Is It Related to the Pancreas?
Understanding Gas Interference in Abdominal Ultrasound Imaging
Gas in abdominal ultrasound? The abdominal ultrasound report indicates that the pancreas is "partially masked by gas," which means that the presence of gas is obstructing a clear view of the pancreas. This does not specifically indicate any problems with the pancreas it...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Yes, the pancreas can be obscured by gastrointestinal air.[Read More] Understanding Gas Interference in Abdominal Ultrasound Imaging
Understanding Right Upper Abdomen Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Pain under the right rib cage in the upper abdomen? Hello, doctor. I occasionally experience pain in the area just below the right rib cage. The pain is localized and typically lasts for about 1 to 2 weeks each time it occurs, but it tends to recur every few months. The pain beco...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to visit a pain management clinic. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdomen Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Changes in Stool Shape: What Does It Mean for Your Health?
Stool becomes thin? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have noticed that my stools are sometimes not well-formed and seem to be thinner (though I don't remember how they looked before). Today, my stool is quite thin, and I am unsure if it resembles what is referred to online as "...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
You may continue to monitor your condition, but if you still experience discomfort, please visit the hepatobiliary and gastroenterology outpatient clinic. If you have already undergone examinations, it is advisable to consult your attending physician in person. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool Shape: What Does It Mean for Your Health?
Understanding Abdominal Tightness: Causes and Treatment Options
Abdominal tightness Since June of last year, I've been experiencing tightness and pain in the muscles on both sides of my abdomen near the navel and along the sides of my ribs. The pain feels like it's coming from the muscles rather than being an internal pain. When sit...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is a higher likelihood of neuromuscular issues. It is important to move around regularly, maintain proper posture while sitting, use correct lifting techniques, and avoid prolonged periods of sitting.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Tightness: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Abdominal Masses: Insights for Liver and Gastrointestinal Health
Abdominal mass Hello Doctor, I have a lump in my abdomen that is not very noticeable most of the time, but upon closer inspection, there is a visible protrusion in the skin. When I tighten my abdomen, the bulge becomes more pronounced. It has been present for about two years, loc...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
It is recommended to have the physician evaluate during the next follow-up appointment. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Masses: Insights for Liver and Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Gas: Causes and Solutions
Abdominal pain with gas? There is a lot of gas in the abdomen, and there is pain in the lower right area of the chest. Additionally, sitting is uncomfortable (it feels like clenching a fist, and I need to stretch it out immediately to feel more relaxed). This condition has been o...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
It is recommended to undergo examinations (X-ray, abdominal ultrasound, and gastrointestinal endoscopy) to check for any organic issues. Wishing you good health![Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Gas: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Heat Stroke in SLE Patients
Gastrointestinal discomfort following heatstroke? Hello, Doctor. I am an SLE patient. After suffering from heatstroke in mid-July last year, I have been experiencing indigestion, bloating, borborygmi, and excessive flatulence. Before bowel movements, I often pass gas, and my abdo...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
The manifestations of lupus erythematosus may also include gastrointestinal discomfort. It is recommended that you consult with a rheumatology and immunology specialist for evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Heat Stroke in SLE Patients
Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound for Stomach Pain Diagnosis
Stomach pain issues? Hello, doctor. I used to have very few stomach pains, but recently I've been experiencing them more often. I went to see a doctor, and they said I could have an abdominal ultrasound to confirm the issue, and that an endoscopy wasn't necessary. When ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Ultrasound can only rule out diseases other than the stomach (such as liver, gallbladder, and pancreas diseases) and cannot exclude conditions like gastric ulcers. If medication and dietary changes are ineffective, an endoscopy may be performed.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound for Stomach Pain Diagnosis
Understanding Your Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Cancer or IBS?
Is it cancer or irritable bowel syndrome? Hello, doctor. At the end of May last year, I experienced frequent bloating and constipation due to excessive milk consumption. I recently completed a gastrointestinal endoscopy and endoscopic ultrasound of the pancreas, during which six ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. The theoretical probability is very low, unless the bowel preparation is inadequate, which may affect the interpretation of the results. 2. If there are six polyps and all are hyperplastic polyps, the recommendation in foreign countries is to follow up in 3-5 years. How...[Read More] Understanding Your Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Cancer or IBS?
Understanding Colonic Compression: Causes and Clinical Insights
Colon compression Hello, doctor. I recently underwent a colonoscopy, and the results for the colon itself were normal. However, there was a finding of intestinal compression near the liver, and I have not experienced any discomfort. I am a carrier of hepatitis B but have regular ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There seems to be no such statement; please discuss it with your attending physician.[Read More] Understanding Colonic Compression: Causes and Clinical Insights
Understanding Fatty Liver and Kidney Stones: Dietary Insights and Management
Abdominal ultrasound Hello Doctor: Last year, due to abdominal pain, I was examined and found to have kidney stones and moderate fatty liver. Over the past year, my weight has been stable at 92 kg (height 166 cm), and I have been controlling my diet for about a year. I believe I ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
The patient has moderate obesity with a BMI of 33.3, and there are kidney stones present with minimal changes observed in the follow-up ultrasound. The abdominal ultrasound shows slight changes in non-fatty areas and multiple small right-sided kidney stones. It is recommended to ...[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver and Kidney Stones: Dietary Insights and Management
Should You Get an MRI with Contrast for Abdominal Discomfort?
MRI contrast agent issues? Hello, doctor: I sometimes experience discomfort in my abdomen. I have undergone gastroscopy, colonoscopy, and abdominal ultrasound, and the doctors have all said there are no issues. I am considering paying out of pocket for an MRI, but I inquired with...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Screening alone is not sufficient; to achieve precision, vaccination is necessary.[Read More] Should You Get an MRI with Contrast for Abdominal Discomfort?
Do You Need a Follow-Up for Fatty Liver Diagnosis?
Does fatty liver require follow-up visits? Yesterday, during an abdominal ultrasound, the doctor found fatty liver and recommended a blood test. I went for the blood test that same day and just received the report showing AST 33 and ALT 104. Since the doctor did not specifically ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Follow-up visits can assess metabolic status and cardiovascular risk while actively promoting healthy weight loss.[Read More] Do You Need a Follow-Up for Fatty Liver Diagnosis?
Can Liver High Echogenic Tumors Suddenly Appear? Understanding Rapid Growth
Can a hepatic hyperechoic tumor suddenly develop? Hello Doctor, I have been undergoing abdominal ultrasounds as part of my health check-ups (I have a 0.6 cm hyperechoic tumor that is being monitored). This time, there was a 10-month gap since my last check-up, but I suddenly foun...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please discuss with the attending physician whether further examinations are necessary. Additionally, contraceptive pills may promote the growth of hemangiomas, so if you are taking them, it is important to discuss discontinuation.[Read More] Can Liver High Echogenic Tumors Suddenly Appear? Understanding Rapid Growth