Understanding Chronic Morning Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Long-term abdominal pain upon waking up in the morning? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing abdominal discomfort for a long time (about 3-4 years). I often feel pain in the area about three fingerbreadths to the left of my navel when I wake up in the morning. This pain is not ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is advisable to first undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to rule out any gastric issues. Additionally, please avoid tea (black tea/green tea/milk tea), coffee, chocolate, sweets, spicy foods, fried foods, high-fat, and high-protein foods. Changhua Hospital care...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Morning Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
How Long Are Fecal Occult Blood Test Results Valid?
What is the validity period for fecal occult blood test results? Hello doctor, I would like to ask how often a fecal occult blood test should be done. I had one done in the middle of last year, and the result was negative, indicating no issues. Currently, I feel that my stool see...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
You can schedule an appointment with the gastroenterology department for a detailed examination.[Read More] How Long Are Fecal Occult Blood Test Results Valid?
Sudden Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation
Sudden changes in bowel habits with no abnormalities found upon examination? Hello, doctor. I have a bowel movement once a day. Since the end of January this year, I have noticed that my stool has become softer and wetter than before. Previously, my stools were more formed, resem...
Dr. Luo Yining Reply:
According to the Bristol Stool Scale, stool can be classified into seven types, with types three and four being the ideal stool forms. Type three stool is sausage-shaped but has cracks on the surface (similar to the bowel habits you described in the past), while your current bowe...[Read More] Sudden Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation
Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Concerns
Amylase levels cannot be reduced? Hello, Doctor. On March 5th, I accidentally consumed spoiled glutinous rice balls (which had been refrigerated for about a week). That evening, around 10 PM, I had fast food fried chicken for dinner and then went to bed. The next day, March 6th, ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The pancreas shows only mild inflammation; the numbers are for reference and should not be a cause for concern. A light diet is recommended, and follow-up appointments should be scheduled as planned.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Recurrent Bloating and Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Further Tests
Frequent bloating and abdominal pain? Hello Doctor, I have seen many doctors this month. In the first and second weeks, I visited for bloating, and in the third week, I consulted for gastroesophageal reflux disease. After taking medication, I felt better in two days, but then I e...
Dr. Luo Yining Reply:
The main cause of abdominal bloating is excessive air, which can generally be divided into two categories: excessive gas production or poor gas expulsion. Excessive gas production can be due to consuming too many gas-producing foods or swallowing too much air, such as when talkin...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Bloating and Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Further Tests
Understanding Dark Red Jelly-like Blood Clots in Stool: Causes and Concerns
The stool has dark red jelly-like blood clots? Hello, doctor. This week, I have noticed dark red jelly-like blood clots located in the front-middle part of my stool, and the blood clots are separate from the stool. I have previously been diagnosed with internal hemorrhoids, and m...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It may be inflammatory bowel disease; keep a record of daily bowel movements and seek medical evaluation (colonoscopy).[Read More] Understanding Dark Red Jelly-like Blood Clots in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Esophageal Issues: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Esophageal issues? In early March, I experienced severe stomach pain and subsequently underwent gastroscopy, ultrasound, blood tests, X-rays, and an electrocardiogram at a major hospital. The reports indicated that there were no significant issues. During this time, I visited the...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Ms. Betty, based on your description, it seems more like it is caused by gastroesophageal reflux. I recommend that you try to improve your symptoms through lifestyle and dietary changes, along with medication management. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Issues: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Understanding Severe Bloating and Digestive Issues After Hemorrhoid Surgery
Abdominal pain, bloating, bowel sounds, mild diarrhea, mucus, belching, flatulence, and indigestion? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing severe bloating for the past two weeks, especially when lying down, accompanied by bowel sounds. The bloating is mostly concentrated in the ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dysmotility is an abnormality of digestive peristalsis, and medication may be necessary for management. If concerned, a stool occult blood test can be performed.[Read More] Understanding Severe Bloating and Digestive Issues After Hemorrhoid Surgery
Concerns About Blood Tests: Infection Risks and Protein Levels Explained
Blood draw and globulin, alkaline phosphatase? Hello, Doctor: (1) Last time, I consulted you regarding case number <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/206612">#206612</a>. I apologize for any unclear expression on my part and would like to ask again. I went...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. Trust the test results from the hospital. 2. White blood cell counts can naturally fluctuate. 3. If the results are normal, there is no need to worry.[Read More] Concerns About Blood Tests: Infection Risks and Protein Levels Explained
Understanding False Negative Results in Fecal Occult Blood Tests
Negative occult blood issue Recently, I had a fecal occult blood test that showed visible blood, but the results came back negative. 1. Could this be due to hemorrhoids or anal fissures, and how can it be negative if blood is visible? I have also been experiencing frequent left a...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
(1) Regarding fecal occult blood sampling, the general purpose of the occult blood test is to detect blood that is not visible to the naked eye. The most common causes of visible blood after a bowel movement are hemorrhoids and anal fissures. If there is significant bleeding, it ...[Read More] Understanding False Negative Results in Fecal Occult Blood Tests
Understanding Abnormal Liver Enzymes: A Guide for Hepatitis B Carriers
Abnormal liver function tests? Hello, Deputy Director: I am a carrier of hepatitis B and have been undergoing regular follow-ups every six months. I also have fatty liver and have not been taking antiviral medication. My ALT (GPT) levels have fluctuated around 40-45 for a long ti...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is advisable to measure the hepatitis B virus load and assess the discussion on whether to initiate antiviral treatment for viral control (not a cure).[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Liver Enzymes: A Guide for Hepatitis B Carriers
Understanding Negative Fecal Occult Blood Tests: Causes and Next Steps
Hemorrhage in stool with negative fecal occult blood test? Recently, I had a fecal occult blood test that showed visible blood, but the results came back negative. 1. Could this be due to hemorrhoids or anal fissures, and how can it be negative if there is visible blood? I have a...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
It is recommended to discuss further treatment or examinations with your attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Negative Fecal Occult Blood Tests: Causes and Next Steps
Does Epclusa Cause Elevated Liver Enzymes and Trigger Hyperthyroidism?
The hepatitis C medication Epclusa? Hello Doctor, my mother is 76 years old and has a history of hypertension. Last year, she was diagnosed with Hepatitis C and was prescribed Epclusa for treatment. After completing the 8-week course, she stopped the medication at the end of Dece...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There are very few reports of this; it can be managed under the supervision of a physician.[Read More] Does Epclusa Cause Elevated Liver Enzymes and Trigger Hyperthyroidism?
Can Stomach Issues from Food Poisoning Affect Liver and Kidney Health?
Liver and kidney issues? Hello, doctor. Can eating spoiled food or having gastroenteritis lead to liver or kidney damage, or cause the function of originally healthy liver and kidneys (with normal blood test results) to deteriorate? I accidentally ate an entire expired sweet past...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Generally, gastroenteritis should not extend to the liver or kidneys, so there is no need for concern.[Read More] Can Stomach Issues from Food Poisoning Affect Liver and Kidney Health?
Gallbladder Removal: When Is Surgery Necessary for Gallstones?
Cholecystectomy Hello, doctor. I have gastroesophageal reflux disease, and recently I've experienced right upper abdominal pain twice within a week. The emergency department diagnosed me with gallstones leading to cholecystitis, but my blood tests are normal. I would like to...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
The primary treatment for symptomatic gallstones is cholecystectomy. If a physician assesses that a patient is not suitable for surgery, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy combined with medication can be considered. Additionally, lifestyle and dietary modifications are necessa...[Read More] Gallbladder Removal: When Is Surgery Necessary for Gallstones?
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 Left Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Left abdominal pain issues? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing a dull pain in my abdomen for the past two to three days, which is quite bothersome and uncomfortable. I’m not sure how to describe it, but it seems to be pain on the left side of my abdomen. The location is aroun...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can first visit a family medicine clinic to address your symptoms (including a fecal occult blood test), and if necessary, you can then proceed to a gastroenterology clinic.[Read More] Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: The Role of Probiotics and Symptoms Analysis
More detailed statement? Hello Doctor, I am the person who asked question #206140. Below is a more detailed statement after a few days of observation, and I hope you can provide me with answers. As mentioned earlier, my mother has been experiencing diarrhea for two months, accomp...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is no objection to the use of probiotics, and it is also recommended to confirm the results of a fecal occult blood test, adjust the diet (low in oil and dairy), and medications, while continuing to monitor the situation. Additionally, diarrhea is often not associated with ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: The Role of Probiotics and Symptoms Analysis
Understanding Diarrhea and Weight Loss: A Gastrointestinal Concern
Diarrhea and weight loss? Hello doctor, the following content is a question for my mother, and I hope you can help answer it. My mother has been experiencing diarrhea for the past two months. The common factor is that she almost always starts having severe abdominal pain around n...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Fecal occult blood testing can be performed, and if positive, a colonoscopy should be conducted. Additionally, continuous monitoring of weight changes is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Diarrhea and Weight Loss: A Gastrointestinal Concern
Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Intestinal issues, abdominal problems, intestinal obstruction? Hello, Director. For the past seven months, my bowel movements have been infrequent, with very little stool produced, and when I do have a bowel movement, it is often long and infrequent (sometimes every 2-4 weeks or ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If a colonoscopy can rule out anxiety, I do not oppose getting the examination done. I maintain a regular routine, eat a balanced diet, and engage in moderate exercise.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options