Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Lower abdominal discomfort or pain? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about a situation I've been experiencing. After a bowel movement (which was somewhat loose), I suddenly had abdominal pain and diarrhea about an hour later. Since then, I've had a persistent dull...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Your issue may need to be addressed by first resolving constipation or fecal impaction. As for whether there is intestinal inflammation or a tumor, a clinical physician may need to evaluate the possibility of inflammation or a tumor after treating the constipation, and the...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Understanding the Link Between Fecal Occult Blood and Elevated CEA Levels
Fecal occult blood and its correlation with CEA levels? Hello doctor, my father, a long-time smoker, had a blood test yesterday that showed a CEA level of 9.4. The doctor advised him to quickly schedule a colonoscopy, but we have to wait two weeks for the results. In July, he had...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It's a matter of perspective, and there is no definitive answer (there should be no colorectal cancer, but polyps cannot be ruled out). If concerned, a colonoscopy should be performed, but lung cancer is also a possibility; the important thing is to quit smoking.[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Fecal Occult Blood and Elevated CEA Levels
Understanding Persistent Bowel Urgency: Causes and Concerns
Persistent urge to defecate? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask if having a persistent feeling of needing to have a bowel movement throughout the day is normal. It's not a strong urge to go to the bathroom, but rather a sensation near the anus or in the intestinal area clos...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If the fecal occult blood test is normal, observation can be considered initially.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Bowel Urgency: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Stool Surface Marks: When to Seek Medical Advice
Stool surface markings Hello, doctor. I had a fecal occult blood test this year, and the results were normal. Recently, my bowel movements have been once a day, with soft but formed stools. The color is normal, slightly yellow, and the thickness is neither too thick nor too thin....
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen: You can take a photo and then schedule an appointment with the colorectal department to discuss it with the attending physician. Director Cai Jin-ji of the Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology Department at Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Stool Surface Marks: When to Seek Medical Advice
Sudden ALT Spike and Hemoglobin Drop: Is Alcohol to Blame?
Sudden elevation of ALT and a sudden decrease in hemoglobin? On the evening of December 2nd, I consumed alcohol and developed a rash that lasted until December 5th. On December 6th, when I went to donate blood, I was informed that my hemoglobin level was at the borderline of acce...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to consult a hepatobiliary and gastroenterology specialist, and to discontinue alcohol consumption and unnecessary medications.[Read More] Sudden ALT Spike and Hemoglobin Drop: Is Alcohol to Blame?
Understanding Blood on Toilet Paper: Causes and Concerns of Colitis
Blood on toilet paper after a bowel movement, diagnosed as colitis? I occasionally eat out, but I usually eat at home, consuming a lot of vegetables, mostly organic, and I rarely eat fried or spicy foods, maintaining a light diet. Until mid-November of this year, I was having reg...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can first return to the gastroenterologist for a discussion.[Read More] Understanding Blood on Toilet Paper: Causes and Concerns of Colitis
Understanding Liver Nodules: What You Need to Know After Imaging Tests
Questions about liver nodules? Three months prior to the company health check, I was following up on a 0.5 cm gallbladder polyp at a gastroenterology clinic, and no other issues were found. During the company health check, it was noted that the gallbladder polyp had increased to ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. Follow-up for gallbladder polyps once a year. 2. For liver nodules, follow-up should be determined based on the physician's imaging report, but it can be done in 3 months.[Read More] Understanding Liver Nodules: What You Need to Know After Imaging Tests
Understanding Persistent Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Abdominal discomfort lasting for three to four months? Hello doctor, I usually experience abdominal pain that lasts no longer than 3 to 6 seconds, similar to a sudden punch. However, the location varies; sometimes it's between my stomach and chest, sometimes in the left uppe...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely not a gastrointestinal issue. It is recommended to adopt a healthy diet for weight loss, avoid intense exercise during pain, and warm up before exercising to prevent strains.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Bowel Issues: Constipation and Digestive Concerns Explained
Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about bowel movement issues? Hello Doctor: I am currently using some sedative sleeping pills, and one of the side effects is constipation. Therefore, I have been taking 5 mg of bisacodyl, two tablets before bedtime. However, over the past mo...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is no evidence to directly link abnormal peristalsis with cancer. It is advisable to perform fecal occult blood testing every 1 to 2 years if necessary.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Constipation and Digestive Concerns Explained
Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results: What Does Reactive Anti-HBC Mean?
The anti-HBc test result is Reactive 0.007? Hello, I first experienced urticaria in early October 2022. After several visits to the clinic for medication and injections, I was unable to effectively control the symptoms even after two weeks of treatment. Subsequently, I was referr...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The patient has a history of hepatitis B infection, but the virus is currently undetectable. Please discuss the details further with the physician who performed the blood draw.[Read More] Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results: What Does Reactive Anti-HBC Mean?
Understanding Elevated FOBT Results: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer?
Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) value greater than 30? Hello, doctor. Last month, during my company's health check-up, it coincided with the first day of my menstrual period. I informed the nurse that I would submit my stool and urine samples later. The nurse advised that it ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
To address anxiety, a colonoscopy may be performed. If the values are not high, there is no need to worry.[Read More] Understanding Elevated FOBT Results: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer?
Weight Loss Concerns: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues and Stress
Weight loss over the past year? Hello, doctor. I am a 32-year-old male, 172 cm tall and weighing 56 kg. Since November 2021, I have been experiencing belching and bloating after meals. I have consulted both Western and Traditional Chinese medicine, and they suggested possible gas...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please discuss with the attending physician about increasing caloric intake and whether to consult or refer to other specialties for assistance in diagnosis and treatment.[Read More] Weight Loss Concerns: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues and Stress
Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Key Insights for Liver and Kidney Health
Abdominal ultrasound Hello, my mother underwent an ultrasound examination, and the results were unclear. The interpretation of the imaging report on the National Health Insurance app is difficult to understand, so I would like to inquire about any important points to note. Thank ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Pay attention to the aging/degradation of the kidneys; it is advisable to have a blood test for kidney function assessment.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Key Insights for Liver and Kidney Health
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Blood in the stool? In the past three months, I have had five bowel movements with a drop of blood at the end. When wiping after a bowel movement, there is fresh red blood about the size of a ten-dollar coin mixed with the stool. I have been experiencing diarrhea continuously for...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
All examinations should be complete; continuous monitoring and medication management are sufficient.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Doctor, I had a suspected case of acute gastroenteritis two months ago, and after taking medication, it seems to have triggered gastrointestinal dysfunction. I was recently diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). My current sy...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
If symptoms worsen or persist for more than 3-6 months, leading to weight loss, it may be advisable to consult a physician to discuss the necessity of further examinations. The specific tests to be conducted would depend on the current symptoms and should be assessed accordingly....[Read More] Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Bloating: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Abdominal distension and lower abdominal pain? Last month, one day after just waking up, I experienced severe abdominal cramps, sweating, and persistent diarrhea. This was unusual for me, as I typically suffer from constipation. I had occasionally taken probiotics to help with bo...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Fecal occult blood testing can be performed for reference; if the results are normal, it should still be considered as abnormal gastrointestinal motility.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Bloating: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Understanding Yellow and Black Stool: GERD and Potential Concerns
Stool that is yellow with black streaks and gastroesophageal reflux? Hello doctor, two months ago I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy which diagnosed me with gastroesophageal reflux disease and Barrett's esophagus, but I do not have Helicobacter pylori or any gas...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is unlikely to be related to colorectal cancer; further observation is sufficient.[Read More] Understanding Yellow and Black Stool: GERD and Potential Concerns
Understanding Yellow Stool with Black Spots: GERD and Potential Concerns
Stool that is yellow with black streaks and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? Hello doctor, two months ago I underwent an endoscopy which diagnosed me with gastroesophageal reflux disease and Barrett's esophagus, but I do not have Helicobacter pylori or any gastric ulc...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is unlikely to be related to colorectal cancer; further observation is sufficient.[Read More] Understanding Yellow Stool with Black Spots: GERD and Potential Concerns
Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
Right lower abdominal cramping pain? Hello, Doctor. For the past six months, I have been experiencing unexplained cramping pain in my lower right abdomen. Sometimes it lasts for 1-2 days, and other times up to a week. Typically, the pain only lasts for 5-10 minutes each day befor...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Apply local heat therapy and stretching, paying attention to posture, while also monitoring changes in symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
Persistent Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers for a Child's Discomfort
Left lower abdominal pain for more than a month? Left lower abdominal pain, persistent hiccups throughout the day. After several visits to a small clinic without improvement, I ended up in the emergency room and was hospitalized for four days. Initially, I experienced low blood p...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Discuss more with a pediatric gastroenterologist.[Read More] Persistent Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers for a Child's Discomfort