Understanding Digestive Issues: Nausea, Appetite Loss, and Irregular Bowel Movements
Irregular bowel movements, loss of appetite, and nausea? Hello Doctor: I haven't been able to eat much lately. A few days ago, I woke up with abdominal bloating and nausea. After fasting until the evening, the symptoms went away. However, in the past few days, I've felt...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Ms. CWY, your symptoms may require evaluation by an outpatient physician. It is recommended that you undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and abdominal ultrasound. We suggest that you consult a gastroenterologist for further medical assessment.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Nausea, Appetite Loss, and Irregular Bowel Movements
Gallbladder Polyps: Impact of Irregular Eating Habits on Health
Gallbladder polyps and lifestyle habits? Hello, doctor. I was recently diagnosed with multiple gallbladder polyps, the largest being 0.5 cm. I read online that irregular meal patterns may cause gallbladder polyps to grow. My work hours are late (11 AM to 8 PM), so I usually go to...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello, Mr. Anonymous: Benign polyps do not grow larger. A balanced diet with three regular meals is fundamental; irregular eating can lead to health issues. It is recommended to maintain a balanced nutrition, consume more fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, and exercise regular...[Read More] Gallbladder Polyps: Impact of Irregular Eating Habits on Health
Understanding Pancreatic Echo Brightness: Should You Worry?
Abdominal ultrasound reveals hyperechoic areas in the pancreas? During a routine health check, an abdominal ultrasound revealed a 0.7 cm hyperechoic lesion in the pancreas. It is said that shadows on ultrasound are more concerning, while hyperechoic lesions are generally less wor...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Aaron, if there are abnormalities in the pancreatic function, further examination is necessary. Inquiring online is not the correct approach; it is recommended to visit a gastroenterology clinic in person.[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Echo Brightness: Should You Worry?
Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Elevated serum transaminases? Hello Doctor: My husband donates blood regularly every year. This year, his ALT levels were elevated. He went for a retest last week, and the results (87 U/L) are still elevated. Should he go to the hospital for a detailed examination? What precautio...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, "serum transaminase ALT," also known as SGPT, indicates abnormal liver function when elevated. It is advisable to investigate the underlying cause, with common reasons including fatty liver, viral hepatitis, other infections, metabolic diseases, autoimmune condit...[Read More] Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Morning Stomach Pain: Understanding GERD and Digestive Issues
Woke up with a stomachache? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing long-term bloating, diarrhea or constipation, and loss of appetite. A few days ago, I visited a gastroenterologist and had an ultrasound, which showed no abnormalities. However, the doctor informed me that abdomin...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Your symptom description is more indicative of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). 2. Eating slowly and thoroughly chewing your food before swallowing can help prevent the issues you mentioned. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Morning Stomach Pain: Understanding GERD and Digestive Issues
Understanding Coarse Echo Patterns in Liver Ultrasound: Key Insights for Patients
coarse echogenicity pattern Hello Doctor, the patient is an 89-year-old female who does not consume alcohol, and her blood biochemistry results are normal. The abdominal ultrasound follow-up for the past two years has yielded the following report. I have questions regarding the &...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. In ultrasound terminology, we use "coarse echo," while "fibrosis" is used in pathological sections. Although the terms are similar, they should not be used interchangeably, as this could lead to significant discrepancies. Based on the report, it do...[Read More] Understanding Coarse Echo Patterns in Liver Ultrasound: Key Insights for Patients
Postpartum Liver Function Concerns: Understanding Elevated GOT and ALP Levels
Got got ALP exceeds the standard? Hello, I recently had a postpartum check-up two and a half months after delivery. My blood test results showed GOT 43, GPT 46 (normal range is in the 30s), and ALP 100 (normal range is 98). Abdominal ultrasound was normal, and all other blood tes...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Abnormal liver function requires further investigation to determine the cause. Please consult a hepatologist.[Read More] Postpartum Liver Function Concerns: Understanding Elevated GOT and ALP Levels
Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Solutions
Amylase levels are often elevated? Hello Dr. Tsai: I have been experiencing elevated amylase levels in my health check reports for the past 10 years. This year, my amylase level is 215, and my lipase level is abnormally low at 20.6. An abdominal ultrasound showed no abnormalities...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Amylase can be secreted by the salivary glands and the pancreas. Additionally, it may also be secreted by the lungs, sweat glands, mammary glands, gastrointestinal tract, and the urogenital system. In certain situations, it may not be easy to identify the true cause. Chang...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Solutions
Understanding the Relationship Between Elevated Liver Enzymes and CRP Levels
CRP index issue Hello Director Chen, my mother is 68 years old. One month ago, she visited the Infectious Disease Department at the municipal hospital due to elevated liver enzymes (GOT: 94.2, GPT: 112.7). She has been taking cholesterol-lowering medication (Rosuvastatin) for the...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, CRP levels can be affected by hepatitis, but it is important to first rule out other diseases and monitor whether they decrease as the hepatitis improves. Changhua Hospital is concerned about your well-being. Sincerely, Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding the Relationship Between Elevated Liver Enzymes and CRP Levels
Understanding Tumors: Are They the Same as Stomach Cancer?
Is a tumor equivalent to stomach cancer? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask if a tumor is equivalent to stomach cancer or if there is a correlation? Can abdominal ultrasound be used for diagnosis? If the stool does not appear dark or black, can gastrointestinal diseases be ruled o...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
The definitive diagnosis of gastric tumors or gastric cancer requires an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy; ultrasound and blood tests are insufficient. The presence of melena suggests gastrointestinal bleeding, but ulcers or tumors in the gastrointestinal tract do not necessarily...[Read More] Understanding Tumors: Are They the Same as Stomach Cancer?
Should I Trust My Doctor's Advice Against Endoscopy?
The doctor said that I don't need to undergo an endoscopy. Should I feel reassured? Last week, I was hospitalized due to bloating and vomiting food remnants after drinking water and eating. The doctor only performed an X-ray and noted that there was some gas in my small inte...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. I agree with this physician's opinion. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Should I Trust My Doctor's Advice Against Endoscopy?
Understanding Asymmetrical Abdomen: Fat Distribution or Liver Concerns?
The right upper abdomen is larger than the left upper abdomen? Hello, Doctor. I am currently overweight, weighing 100 kg. A few years ago, I noticed that the appearance of my abdomen, specifically the upper right quadrant (below the chest), is more protruded than the upper left q...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If there are any issues with the liver, it is best to consult a clinical physician. Uneven fat distribution refers to the description of the liver observed in ultrasound and does not cause left-right imbalance. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Asymmetrical Abdomen: Fat Distribution or Liver Concerns?
Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Size, Risks, and Treatment Options
Questions regarding gallbladder polyps? Hello, Director Chen. About nine years ago, during a health check-up, I was informed that I had several gallbladder polyps, the largest measuring 0.89 cm. For many years, I have undergone abdominal ultrasounds every six months to a year to ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. There is generally no need for this surgery, as it poses unnecessary surgical risks. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Size, Risks, and Treatment Options
Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Recently, I have been experiencing abdominal discomfort? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing discomfort in my abdomen lately, but I can't pinpoint exactly where it hurts. I have a normal bowel movement once a day, but the amount is not very much. It feels like I might be ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The symptoms of colorectal cancer are mostly non-specific and cannot definitively indicate the presence of colorectal cancer. It is recommended to start by adjusting your diet, increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables, and reducing the consumption of irritating foods...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Gastrointestinal issues I would like to ask the doctor about my gastrointestinal discomfort that started about one or two months ago. Initially, the doctor diagnosed it as viral gastroenteritis. After that, I was advised to eat glutinous rice, and the doctor prescribed medication...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. For poor gastrointestinal motility, it is advisable to maintain a regular routine and diet, and medication can be used for adjustment if necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Understanding Complex Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Seeking Medical Advice
Complex symptoms, I kindly ask the doctor to take the time to respond. Thank you? Hello, Doctor. First, I would like to apologize. Although I have already been examined, my symptoms have persisted for several months, so there may be multiple issues. I appreciate your time in resp...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
You may consider undergoing an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy; if no issues are found, it is likely a case of functional dyspepsia.[Read More] Understanding Complex Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Seeking Medical Advice
Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Right upper quadrant pain? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing pain in the upper right abdomen, specifically on the side, as well as pain below the right rib and to the right of the navel, for the past one and a half months after eating (regardless of what I eat). The pain is...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
It is likely a gastrointestinal dysfunction; if discomfort persists, a colonoscopy may be considered.[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Abnormal Total and Direct Bilirubin Levels in Health Checkups
Abnormal total bilirubin and direct bilirubin levels in health check-ups? Hello, doctor. In my recent health check report, it was found that my total bilirubin and direct bilirubin levels were abnormal, with total bilirubin at 4.17 mg/dL and direct bilirubin at 1.59 mg/dL. Other ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, some individuals have congenital abnormalities in bilirubin metabolism, which may increase under certain conditions. It is recommended to monitor through follow-up blood tests under normal daily activities. If the levels continue to rise, further examinations may be necess...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Total and Direct Bilirubin Levels in Health Checkups
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms and Solutions
Gastrointestinal discomfort About two weeks ago, I started experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort with the following symptoms: my stomach occasionally makes strange noises, which I rarely experienced before. It's not the sound of hunger, as it occurs even after I've e...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Based on the symptoms, it appears to be a gastrointestinal issue, and abdominal ultrasound examination does not provide significant diagnostic value for gastrointestinal problems. It is recommended to take gastrointestinal medications along with a diet low in oil and dairy. If th...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms and Solutions
Do MRI Results Indicate No More Gallstones After Previous Ultrasound?
Presence of gallstones? If the ultrasound two years ago showed two gallstones each approximately 1.5 cm, and this year's MRI of the gallbladder shows no abnormalities, it is likely that there are no gallstones present. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare pr...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
The best tool for observing gallstones is abdominal ultrasound. If the stones are too small or have low density, they may not be visible on abdominal CT scans or MRI. It is recommended to follow up with an abdominal ultrasound soon.[Read More] Do MRI Results Indicate No More Gallstones After Previous Ultrasound?