Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Mass Sensation: When to Seek Help
There is a sensation of a mass in the left upper abdomen? Hello Doctor: I have been feeling something like cartilage under my left upper abdomen, just below the rib cage. I'm not sure if it could be a tumor, as it feels deep beneath my skin and moves when I press on it. I am...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
You can consult a physician and describe your condition.[Read More] Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Mass Sensation: When to Seek Help
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Diagnostic Steps
Lower abdominal pain? Hello, doctor. For the past two weeks, I've been experiencing pain in my lower abdomen. When I touch it, I can feel two lumps, each less than 1 cm in size. They cause sharp pain when pressed, and when not pressed, I feel a sensation of a foreign body ar...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to first observe and record any changes. Local heat application may also be tried to see if there is a response. If necessary, return to the original surgical clinic.[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Diagnostic Steps
Understanding CA19-9 Levels: When to Worry About Pancreatic Health
CA19-9 Issues Hello doctor, three years ago my CA 19-9 level was over 5, and during a health check in February this year, it increased to over 15. After another check two months later, it rose to over 17. All other biochemical test results are normal, except for a fasting blood s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
CA 19-9 cannot be used to diagnose cancer. If the abdominal ultrasound is normal, it can be monitored; however, if there are still concerns, a self-paid MRI may be considered.[Read More] Understanding CA19-9 Levels: When to Worry About Pancreatic Health
Should I Repeat MRI or Switch to Ultrasound for Elevated CA199 Levels?
CA19-9 Issues Thank you for your response, doctor. In the previous question, I mentioned that my CA 19-9 levels were over 5 three years ago, and this year they were over 15 and then over 17 two months later. You suggested an abdominal ultrasound or MRI. I would like to ask if I s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is no need for further MRI examination. Follow-up with ultrasound is sufficient.[Read More] Should I Repeat MRI or Switch to Ultrasound for Elevated CA199 Levels?
Is It Gastroenteritis or Colon Cancer? Understanding Your Symptoms
Unsure if it's gastroenteritis or colorectal cancer? I have no family history of gastrointestinal issues. I underwent surgery and chemotherapy for colon cancer over a decade ago, and my follow-ups have shown no abnormalities since then. In the past couple of years, I have ha...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to first check the stool, maintain a consistent diet, and adjust medications as needed. If the time is appropriate, an early colonoscopy can also be considered.[Read More] Is It Gastroenteritis or Colon Cancer? Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Hypoechoic Areas in the Liver: What Does It Mean?
The abdominal ultrasound report indicates "suspected hypoechoic area in the liver, possibly due to fat." Hello Dr. Lin! During today's health check-up, I came across the term "hypoechoic area in the liver suspected to be a fat-deficient area" in the abdom...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
In the presence of fatty liver, the liver cells contain lipids, resulting in ultrasound images that appear as hyperechoic areas compared to the kidneys. However, the distribution of fat can sometimes be uneven, with normal areas that are not infiltrated by fat appearing relativel...[Read More] Understanding Hypoechoic Areas in the Liver: What Does It Mean?
Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Is It Gallstones or Something Else?
Dull discomfort in the lower abdomen? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my father. Last week, he mentioned feeling a dull ache in his lower right abdomen (he had his appendix removed several years ago). He visited a nearby clinic, and the doctor suggested it might be due to...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, it is advisable to take the elderly to a gastroenterology or urology specialist for evaluation by a physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Is It Gallstones or Something Else?
Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms, Concerns, and Insights on IBS
Intestinal issues? Hello Doctor, recently I have been experiencing a sensation of incomplete bowel movements. Sometimes, I have to exert myself to pass out thin stools, but there is no blood. Today, my stool was normal, well-formed, and brown, but there was some water with it. I ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is normal for the colon to contain some moisture or mucus, so there is no need to worry too much. If a colonoscopy is necessary, it can be performed under sedation to alleviate discomfort and pain. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms, Concerns, and Insights on IBS
Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Upper abdominal discomfort or pain? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a dull pain in my upper abdomen for almost eight months now, located around the epigastric area. Currently, the symptoms persist as dull pain, and I have issues with bowel movements, sometimes having diffi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If weight, cancer markers, and lipase blood tests are normal, there is generally no need for further imaging studies. However, if there are still concerns, you may opt for out-of-pocket testing.[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Stool and Urine Color Changes: When to Seek Help
Issues with Stool Color Hello, I currently have one gallstone and moderate fatty liver. Recently, I've noticed that my urine and stool are both very yellow in the morning. I initially thought it might be jaundice; my urine has a slight tea color, and my stool is a golden yel...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Slightly concentrated urine in the morning is still considered normal.[Read More] Understanding Stool and Urine Color Changes: When to Seek Help
Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms and Concerns for Your Health
Bowel issues Hello doctor, today I experienced cramping pain in my abdomen (there's a gurgling sound in the lower left side of my intestines) and diarrhea. Initially, my stool was normal and formed, but I’m not sure if it’s because I ate too much. Later, it turned into water...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is related not only to diet and lifestyle but also to anxiety. Proper management and adjustments can help alleviate symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms and Concerns for Your Health
Understanding Lipase and Amylase Levels in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Health
Lipase and Amylase Dear Deputy Director: Last August, my child had acute gastroenteritis, and during the emergency visit, the lipase and amylase levels were elevated. After the follow-up visit, an abdominal ultrasound was performed at the end of August, which showed normal resu...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If a blood test for lipase and amylase levels is to be conducted, it is generally recommended to fast for 8 hours prior to the blood draw to avoid food interference with the results. Additionally, if the child does not exhibit symptoms of pancreatitis, has a normal abdominal ultr...[Read More] Understanding Lipase and Amylase Levels in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Right Abdominal Tightness: Causes and Solutions
Tightness in the right abdomen? Hello Doctor: Since June of last year, I have been experiencing frequent tightness in my right abdomen. I have undergone abdominal ultrasound, abdominal X-ray, and gastroscopy, all of which appeared normal. Currently, the symptoms persist, sometime...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A colonoscopy and (out-of-pocket) computed tomography can be performed for examination. If no abnormalities are found, local heat application and stretching exercises may be recommended.[Read More] Understanding Right Abdominal Tightness: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Persistent Hiccups: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Gastrointestinal bloating Hello, doctor. Since December of last year, I have been experiencing hiccups. Initially, it occurred after meals, but now it happens when I just wake up, when I'm hungry, or when I drink water. However, I don't feel uncomfortable anywhere else....
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello! If your symptoms do not improve with medication, it is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment and discuss with your attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Hiccups: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Chronic Lower Abdominal Pain with Normal Bowel Movements: What to Know
Normal bowel movements, but experiencing chronic lower abdominal pain? Hello, Doctor. I started experiencing lower abdominal pain (cramping) in January 2022, and I cannot determine if it is in the left lower or right lower quadrant (lower middle). Generally, my bowel movements ar...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Normal bowel movements but persistent lower abdominal pain. After defecation, the pain shifts from the lower abdomen to the upper abdomen. There is no pain at night, but pain occurs in the morning upon waking. Abdominal ultrasound and colonoscopy show no issues. Treatment for irr...[Read More] Chronic Lower Abdominal Pain with Normal Bowel Movements: What to Know
Understanding Digestive Issues: Is Diarrhea Normal After Constipation Medication?
Intestinal issues? Hello, Doctor. Is it normal to experience diarrhea after taking a laxative (Clear Laxative Sugar-coated Tablets)? I visited a colorectal specialist two days ago, and after a digital rectal examination, the doctor found that I was constipated and prescribed me a...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Strong laxatives can cause painful contractions of the vaginal canal or even diarrhea; it may be advisable to reduce the dosage or switch medications.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Is Diarrhea Normal After Constipation Medication?
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Abdominal bloating and pain? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing abdominal bloating and pain for nearly two months. Eating liquid foods causes more pain than solid foods, and lying down increases the pain; I have to sit up and bend my body to alleviate it. My bowel habits have...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The causes of abdominal bloating and pain may include indigestion, gastrointestinal issues, and liver, gallbladder, or pancreatic diseases. It is advisable to pay attention to dietary habits, avoiding rapid eating and greasy foods. Risk factors for pancreatitis include gal...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Persistent Hiccups: When to Seek Medical Advice
Chronic hiccups Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing hiccups since December of last year. Initially, they occurred only after meals, but later they became more frequent and unpredictable, happening upon waking and when I'm hungry. Each episode consists of two to three hicc...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There should be no related issues; it is mostly caused by peristaltic digestion. There may also be subconscious habits of belching. It is advisable to eat small, frequent meals, minimize talking during meals, and take a walk after eating instead of sitting for long periods.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Hiccups: When to Seek Medical Advice
Why Did My Liver Tumor Shrink? Understanding Changes in Liver Health
Why do liver tumors shrink? In early November 2022, a company health check revealed that I have mild fatty liver. In mid-November 2022, a hospital examination found a liver tumor measuring 1.5 x 1.0 cm (hypoechoic). The doctor immediately arranged for an abdominal MRI (with contr...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, patients with chronic hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and cirrhosis are at high risk for liver cancer and require regular monitoring. If there is a suspected liver tumor on abdominal ultrasound, further confirmation should be done through computed tomography (CT), magnetic reson...[Read More] Why Did My Liver Tumor Shrink? Understanding Changes in Liver Health
Understanding and Managing Symptoms of Gastroparesis and GERD
Gastric ptosis, gastric tightness, and abdominal bloating significantly affect daily life. How can these conditions be improved? Symptoms: The most troubling symptoms are 1. A feeling of gastric ptosis (a sense of heaviness in the abdomen). 2. A sensation of gastric sensitivity, ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The preliminary diagnosis is likely related to reflux and abnormal (slow) peristalsis. A diet of small, frequent meals and medication management is recommended. Additionally, an abdominal ultrasound and Ca 19-9 test can be performed, and a CT or MRI can be done at the patient...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Symptoms of Gastroparesis and GERD