What to Do About a Liver Hemangioma: Health Considerations
What should be done about a hepatic hemangioma? Dear Dr. Hsu: During a recent health check-up, an abdominal ultrasound revealed a hepatic hemangioma, which was confirmed by a CT scan measuring 1.7 cm. An electrocardiogram also indicated the presence of sinus bradycardia. I would ...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello, Xiaomei! After examination, it has been confirmed that you have a hepatic hemangioma. A hepatic hemangioma is a benign tumor that does not affect liver function and does not transform into malignant tissue. Therefore, regular monitoring is sufficient, and no treatment is n...[Read More] What to Do About a Liver Hemangioma: Health Considerations
Understanding Hepatitis B: Concerns, Treatments, and Lifestyle Tips
Urgent question!! Hepatitis B~~ Hello, Dr. Hsu. I was diagnosed with hepatitis B about a year or two ago. Since then, I have been regularly getting blood tests and taking medication (I also take a multivitamin). However, my test results have continued to rise each time. Two days ...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello! The letter only mentioned that you have hepatitis B but did not specify your current condition. Which specific test results are you referring to that have been rising? The doctor's advice to rest more does not necessarily indicate that your condition is serious; you m...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Concerns, Treatments, and Lifestyle Tips
Managing Persistent Bloating and Back Pain After Gallstone Surgery
Abdominal bloating and back pain worsen at night? At the beginning of September, I was hospitalized due to biliary stones. After undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), I have recovered, but I am experiencing persistent abdominal bloating. If the bloatin...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, after the endoscopic removal of intestinal stones, you are experiencing persistent bloating, occasional severe pain radiating to the back, which still sounds like a gallbladder or biliary issue. However, the abdominal ultrasound and blood tests are normal. Is it necessary ...[Read More] Managing Persistent Bloating and Back Pain After Gallstone Surgery
Understanding Liver Function Tests: Blood Work and Ultrasound Explained
Liver function tests Hello, doctor. I feel that my physical strength is not very good. Even after getting seven to nine hours of sleep, I sometimes still feel very tired. I would like to have a liver function test. Is it sufficient to just do a blood test and an ultrasound to tho...
Dr. Su Baojia Reply:
Liver function tests and abdominal ultrasound examinations are performed simultaneously, and most liver diseases should be detectable. The cost of the ultrasound examination is 750 NTD.[Read More] Understanding Liver Function Tests: Blood Work and Ultrasound Explained
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: G.O.T and G.P.T Explained
Liver enzymes G.O.T (Glutamate Oxaloacetate Transaminase) and G.P.T (Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase Hello, I have been feeling fatigued frequently and have a bitter taste in my mouth. My sister, who is a pharmacist, suggested that I get my liver function checked. After the tests...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, the normal range for liver enzymes GOT and GPT is generally below 40. Your GPT level of 154 is approximately 3 to 4 times elevated, which is not extremely high, but it is important to understand the underlying cause (such as whether there is hepatitis B or C, or fatty live...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: G.O.T and G.P.T Explained
How to Check for Liver Cirrhosis: Blood Tests and More
Cirrhosis of the liver To check liver function, blood tests are commonly performed. A routine blood test can provide initial information about liver health, including liver enzyme levels. However, additional tests may be necessary for a comprehensive evaluation, such as imaging s...
Dr. Li Xuanshu Reply:
Hello! The most comprehensive liver examination, in addition to blood tests, should ideally include an abdominal ultrasound. It is recommended that you first consult a hepatobiliary specialist to explain your purpose, and the doctor will assess which tests you need to undergo.[Read More] How to Check for Liver Cirrhosis: Blood Tests and More
Can Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Change from Positive to Negative?
Is it possible for the hepatitis B surface antigen to change? Hello Doctor: I previously underwent a health check-up in January 2003, where the hepatitis B surface antigen was positive and the surface antibody was negative, thus I was determined to be a carrier (liver function te...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, previously the surface antigen was positive, but it is now undetectable, and the surface antibody is also negative. There are several possibilities: 1. The surface antigen may still be present but at a level too low to be detected due to the sensitivity of the test; 2. It ...[Read More] Can Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Change from Positive to Negative?
Managing Hepatitis B: Essential Tests and Monitoring for Carriers
Hepatitis B Hello Doctor, I would like to ask a question. Both my husband and I are carriers of hepatitis B. During our regular check-ups at the hospital, besides checking GOT and CPT, is it sufficient to just have an ultrasound? If both the indices and the ultrasound results are...
Dr. Chen Jianhong Reply:
Hello! Currently, regular follow-up tests including blood tests for GOT, GPT, and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), along with abdominal ultrasound, are sufficient.[Read More] Managing Hepatitis B: Essential Tests and Monitoring for Carriers
Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Essential Tests and Follow-Up Care
Hepatitis B carriers, examination? Hello Dr. Chen, I was previously a carrier of hepatitis B and I heard that it cannot be cured for a lifetime. About 4 to 5 years ago, I had a blood test for hepatitis B, and the doctor at that time informed me that my AST and ALT levels were no...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Reply: Hello, 1. Hepatitis B may pose a risk for liver cancer, and there is a possibility of occurrence even when liver function is normal. Therefore, it is recommended to have regular follow-up examinations every six months for early detection and treatment. 2. Regular check...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Essential Tests and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Right Flank and Upper Abdomen Discomfort: Possible Causes
Discomfort in the right lower back and right upper abdomen? Hello, doctor. About two months ago, I started experiencing a burning sensation combined with mild aching in my lower right back. The symptoms have been intermittent. Initially, I thought it was a sports injury, but over...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, you can arrange for an abdominal ultrasound (including liver, gallbladder, and kidneys) at the internal medicine or family medicine department, along with a urinalysis and X-ray examination. Thank you, Dr. Chen Zhi-Ping.[Read More] Understanding Right Flank and Upper Abdomen Discomfort: Possible Causes
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: What Does It Mean for Your Health?
Liver function Hello Dr. Chen, I had a health check-up this year. The results showed S.G.O.P (AST) at 28 IU/L and S.G.P.T (ALT) at 42 IU/L. Is the slightly elevated SGPT indicative of liver function abnormalities? Please clarify. Thank you.
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, the normal values for GOT and GPT are derived from screening many "healthy adults," which means that most healthy individuals fall within this range. However, there are occasional cases where individuals may be normal but slightly exceed this normal range. If the...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: What Does It Mean for Your Health?
Understanding IBS Recurrence: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Is it a recurrence of irritable bowel syndrome? Hello Dr. Chen, I am Xiao Ming, who asked a question on April 22. I have been experiencing persistent issues with constipation and abdominal bloating, so I returned to the gastroenterology department for a consultation. The doctor p...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Reply: Hello, 1. The definition of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is characterized by diarrhea or constipation, accompanied by abdominal pain and bloating, occurring frequently and being chronic or recurrent. A diagnosis can be confirmed only after gastrointestinal or abdominal...[Read More] Understanding IBS Recurrence: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management
Can Hepatitis B Carriers Work in Early Childhood Education?
Work-related issues of Hepatitis B? Hello Doctor: I am a carrier of hepatitis B and would like to ask if I can work in early childhood education. Are there any cases where individuals were unable to work in early childhood education due to hepatitis B? I am very concerned, please...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello: Hepatitis B carriers account for about 15% of the population in Taiwan, meaning they have the Hepatitis B virus in their bodies. This virus can cause liver inflammation, and over time, there is a risk of developing cirrhosis or liver cancer. Therefore, it is necessary to u...[Read More] Can Hepatitis B Carriers Work in Early Childhood Education?
Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Tests
Right lower abdominal pain? Hello, doctor. For the past two days, I've been experiencing pain when pressing on a specific point in my lower right abdomen, without any other gastrointestinal discomfort. What could this condition be? What kind of examination should I undergo?
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello: May I ask if you have a fever? Is your bowel movement normal? Did the abdominal pain start in the right lower quadrant, or did it begin in another area and then move to the right lower quadrant? Is the abdominal pain constant or intermittent? Is the tenderness mild or seve...[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Tests
Can Silymarin and Domperidone Restore Liver Health? Expert Insights
Hello, how can I assist you today? Doctor, I previously went to the hospital and was diagnosed with hepatitis B. My liver function tests showed levels as high as 197 and 375, but the abdominal ultrasound was normal. The doctor prescribed me a one-month course of silymarin for liv...
Dr. Liang Jiade Reply:
Hello, if liver function is elevated and is found to be related to hepatitis B after examination, it is recommended to maintain a regular lifestyle, avoid staying up late, and limit the use of tobacco, alcohol, and unnecessary medications. Liver-protective medications contain onl...[Read More] Can Silymarin and Domperidone Restore Liver Health? Expert Insights
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps for Relief
Abdominal pain Hello, doctor. I often experience pain when pressing about five centimeters to the right of my navel. Sometimes, I feel intermittent sharp pain and a vague discomfort, and I frequently pass gas. I'm not sure if this is related. I previously had an abdominal ul...
Dr. Liang Jiade Reply:
Hello, there is often a hidden pain sensation in the lower abdomen. Upon examination, no other abnormalities were found. Sometimes it may be related to intestinal inflammation, diverticula, constipation, or functional disorders. Since there is often air in the intestines, it is r...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps for Relief
Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Next Steps for Your Health Concerns
Elevated CA19-9 levels? Dear Dr. Liang, I underwent a health check-up at National Taiwan University Hospital in May, and the report indicated that my CEA19-9 level is 40.4 u/ml, which is higher than the reference value of 37 u/ml, while my CEA level is normal. An abdominal ultra...
Dr. Liang Jiade Reply:
Hello, in your examination, one of the tumor markers is slightly elevated compared to normal values, but other tests do not provide direct evidence of tumor presence. It is generally recommended to have regular follow-up examinations. (Tumor markers can be elevated in a small num...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Next Steps for Your Health Concerns
Will Gallbladder Surgery Lead to Recurrence of Stones?
Will gallstones recur after surgery? I underwent surgery for gallstones in 1990, during which some stones were also found in my liver. Since then, I have been doing well. However, I recently tested positive for hepatitis B and C, with GOT at 25 and GPT at 37. Should I take liver ...
Dr. Li Xuanshu Reply:
A user without a gallbladder: Here are the answers to your questions: 1. There is no causal relationship between gallstones, liver stones, and hepatitis B or C. 2. When you say your blood test shows hepatitis B and C, does that mean both HBsAg and Anti-HCV are positive? If so, it...[Read More] Will Gallbladder Surgery Lead to Recurrence of Stones?
Is It Necessary to Continue Taking Hepatitis B Medication After Recovery?
Is it suitable to take Gan An Neng? Hello Doctor: A year ago, I tested negative for Hepatitis B during a health check-up. On February 14 of this year, I ate seafood and consumed raw oysters (I do not drink alcohol and was not taking any medications at that time; my lifestyle was ...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello, Xiaoyun! 1. Your latest tests show that your liver enzyme levels are normal, so there is no need for you to take Danazol. However, it would be best to have your medical history for reference. Additionally, we suspect you may have acute hepatitis? It is possible that you ...[Read More] Is It Necessary to Continue Taking Hepatitis B Medication After Recovery?
Should You Continue Taking Interferon for Hepatitis B After Recovery?
Should I take Gan An Neng? Hello Doctor: A year ago, I tested negative for Hepatitis B during a health check. On February 14 of this year, I ate seafood and had raw oysters (I do not drink alcohol, and I was not taking any medications at that time; my lifestyle was normal). On Fe...
Dr. Chen Jianhong Reply:
Hello Ayun! 1. Your latest tests show that your liver enzyme levels are normal, so there is no need for you to take Tenofovir. However, it is still best to have your medical history for reference. Additionally, we suspect that you may have acute hepatitis? It is possible that y...[Read More] Should You Continue Taking Interferon for Hepatitis B After Recovery?