Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Dr. Yang: I have been experiencing abdominal discomfort for almost half a month now. I have visited three different clinics, and the doctors have given me different opinions, but my symptoms have been consistent. Feeling that something was wrong, I w...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Ms. Pan, the diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) still requires completing clinical examinations. I recommend that you undergo the basic stool tests. If your symptoms persist or if there is a family history of colorectal cancer, it is advisable to arrange for a colo...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Understanding Early Cirrhosis: Autoimmune Liver Disease Insights and Management
Liver issues - Cirrhosis Hello Doctor, two years ago during a health check-up, fetal alpha-fetoprotein was found to be 13.8, and both GOT and GPT levels were elevated. An ultrasound indicated that the liver appeared enlarged, suggesting liver fibrosis. Blood tests ruled out hepat...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Your situation is quite unique; there is significant individual variation in autoimmune hepatitis, and medication regimens can differ accordingly. Therefore, it is essential to tailor the treatment to your specific condition. Please discuss this further with your attending physic...[Read More] Understanding Early Cirrhosis: Autoimmune Liver Disease Insights and Management
Understanding Your Stomach Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention
Gastric issues? Recently, my stomach seems to be slightly off, and I'm not sure if it's just psychological. If I wait until I experience significant weight loss, anemia, or unbearable pain before seeing a doctor for an endoscopy, will it be too late, such as in the case...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Cancer markers cannot be used to diagnose the presence or absence of cancer. 2. If the clinical physician assesses that it is necessary, an endoscopy is recommended. 3. Ultrasound can only visualize the pancreas under optimal bowel gas conditions, so it is not the best ...[Read More] Understanding Your Stomach Issues: When to Seek Medical Attention
Persistent Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Seeking Solutions for Two Months
Gastrointestinal discomfort for two months? Hello Doctor, I am a 19-year-old student who has been struggling with gastrointestinal issues for over two months, and it's really wearing me down. My symptoms include a feeling of bloating and chest tightness every morning (even w...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If you have consumed tea, coffee, or spicy, fried, high-fat, and high-protein foods, it is advisable to avoid them for now. Make sure to stay hydrated with fruits and vegetables. If there is no improvement, please consult a gastroenterologist at Changhua Hospital to addres...[Read More] Persistent Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Seeking Solutions for Two Months
Understanding Hepatitis B Carrier Status: When to Consider Treatment
Hepatitis B carrier issues? Hello, Dr. Chen. I am a carrier of hepatitis B. A few days ago, I returned for a follow-up appointment, and my test results showed a hepatitis B surface antibody level of 8540 (+). The doctor did not prescribe any medication and only advised me to cont...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If only the surface antigen is positive, with a high concentration but no liver cirrhosis and normal liver function (AST/ALT), medication is still not recommended.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Carrier Status: When to Consider Treatment
Understanding Dizziness and Nausea: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help
Dizziness, nausea, and a feeling of wanting to vomit? Hello Doctor, my friend (female, 34 years old) has been experiencing frequent dizziness over the past three months (she describes it as a feeling similar to motion sickness, and there have been instances where she completely l...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
First, the cause of dizziness should be confirmed, which can be done by visiting a general practitioner for blood tests or directly consulting a neurologist for a detailed evaluation. If dizziness improves but discomfort persists, a follow-up with a gastroenterologist may be nece...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Nausea: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help
Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Dr. Chen: I have been experiencing abdominal discomfort for half a month. I visited a gastroenterologist at a large hospital, and the doctor suggested that I might have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). He also mentioned that if I was concerned, I coul...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The manifestations of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be further evaluated by performing a stool occult blood test to rule out other possibilities. Also, please try not to be too anxious![Read More] Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Causes and Remedies for Abdominal Pain
Gastrointestinal issues I apologize for the inconvenience, but I would like to ask about something. A few nights ago, I ate three pieces of frozen sticky corn and a small bowl of brown rice within four to five hours. Before going to bed, I felt something unusual in my stomach, an...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The initial assessment suggests a problem with gastrointestinal motility. Medication or a modification to a easily digestible diet can be considered, followed by observation. If necessary, a stool occult blood test may be performed.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Causes and Remedies for Abdominal Pain
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Gastrointestinal issues Recently, I have been experiencing frequent stomach rumbling at night, with the location of the sounds being inconsistent, which affects my sleep. A year ago, I underwent a fecal occult blood test at the hospital, and the results were negative. The doctor ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello, I would like you to pay attention to the issue of sleep, as general abdominal sounds typically do not affect sleep. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a condition characterized by periodic changes, which may involve alternating constipation and diarrhea. If you have any que...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Managing Acid Reflux and Bowel Noises: When to Seek Further Testing
Gastroesophageal reflux and bowel sounds? 1. Three years ago and one year ago, I underwent gastroscopy, which revealed gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and some gastric mucosal erosion. I was prescribed pantoprazole, and there was improvement at that time. However, recently...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
To manage reflux symptoms, it is advisable to avoid acidic and sweet foods, as well as coffee and tea. In short, if a food causes discomfort after eating, it should be avoided. Additionally, symptoms like abdominal rumbling may indicate irritable bowel syndrome, which can be mana...[Read More] Managing Acid Reflux and Bowel Noises: When to Seek Further Testing
Managing Rapid Gastric Motility and Pain After Dinner: Tips for Recovery
Within 7 days, there were 2 instances of rapid gastric motility after dinner at night? Hello, doctor. I have been recovering from gastritis and recently experienced severe stabbing pain in my stomach after dinner (braised pork rice). This has led me to visit the emergency room tw...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello! Does drinking water help with back pain? The causes of back pain may include muscular or neurological issues, and prolonged inactivity from lying down for too long can lead to discomfort in the back. Peptic ulcers, gastritis, and pancreatitis can also cause pain that radia...[Read More] Managing Rapid Gastric Motility and Pain After Dinner: Tips for Recovery
Managing Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Treatment, and Dietary Tips
Duodenal ulcer medication is ineffective, along with other symptoms? Hello Doctor, I am currently 19 years old. In February, I suddenly experienced severe stomach burning, and it wasn't until the end of February that I underwent an endoscopy, which revealed a mild duodenal u...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to first consult a psychiatrist to manage anxiety and tension, and to use medications from the gastroenterology department as needed. A normal diet is acceptable, with the exception of avoiding刺激性食物 (irritating foods), and there should be no significant restrict...[Read More] Managing Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Treatment, and Dietary Tips
Abdominal Pain Around the Navel: Causes and Gastrointestinal Insights
Periumbilical tenderness and chronic bloating? Hello doctor, a year or two ago, I visited two or three gastroenterologists due to diarrhea, and I was diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome. Recently, I have not experienced diarrhea or constipation, and my bowel movements are nor...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello, Ms. Carbon. 1. If your condition does not improve, you may discuss with your physician the possibility of scheduling a colonoscopy. 2. The incident with the parasites occurred 10 years ago; if you are concerned, you can ask your physician to arrange for a routine stool exa...[Read More] Abdominal Pain Around the Navel: Causes and Gastrointestinal Insights
Understanding Long-Term Stool Changes: Dietary Issues or Gastrointestinal Concerns?
Chronic loose stools? Hello doctor, I have noticed that for the past few months, my stools have been more like a lump rather than a formed log, but they are not watery enough to be considered diarrhea. I also feel discomfort during intestinal peristalsis. Could this be related to...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there is no weight loss or blood in the stool, it is mostly due to motility disorders (such as irritable bowel syndrome). However, if there are concerns, a stool occult blood test can still be performed.[Read More] Understanding Long-Term Stool Changes: Dietary Issues or Gastrointestinal Concerns?
Understanding Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Treatment Options
Elevated total bilirubin? Hello, doctor. Recently, I had a blood test where my total bilirubin was 1.6 mg/dL (normal range: 0.1-1.2), which is elevated. My direct bilirubin was 0.3 (<0.4), and my cholesterol was slightly high at 210, while the other values including sGOT, sGPT...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Commonly, due to individual genetics, a slight increase in bilirubin can occur during the metabolism of hemoglobin in red blood cells, which is not harmful to health.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Gallbladder Removal: Symptoms, Risks, and Follow-Up Care
Bowel-related issues, cholecystectomy? Hello Doctor, my symptoms include sudden abdominal pain and diarrhea, with the stool being darker and having a sour smell. The frequency is irregular; sometimes it occurs for a few days every half month. I have gastroesophageal reflux diseas...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Small gallbladder polyps typically do not present any symptoms. It is recommended to regularly monitor the size changes of the polyps, and there is currently no need for immediate concern or anxiety.[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Removal: Symptoms, Risks, and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Gallbladder Removal: Symptoms, Risks, and Follow-Up Care
Bowel-related issues, cholecystectomy? Hello Doctor, my symptoms include sudden abdominal pain and diarrhea, with the stool being darker and having a sour smell. The frequency is irregular; sometimes it occurs for a few days every half month. I have gastroesophageal reflux diseas...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Small gallbladder polyps typically do not present symptoms. It is recommended to regularly monitor the size changes of the polyps, and there is currently no need for immediate concern or anxiety.[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Removal: Symptoms, Risks, and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Is It a Sign of Colon Cancer?
Rectal issues Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my frequent left abdominal bloating, which can be painful. Previously, I would have hard stools every two to three days, followed by a couple of softer bowel movements. However, recently my stools have been consistently loose,...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic for a colonoscopy or a fecal occult blood test.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Is It a Sign of Colon Cancer?
Loose Stools, Diarrhea, and Weight Loss: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Loose stools or diarrhea and weight loss? Hello Doctor: I was diagnosed with gastroenteritis in mid-March, and since then my stools have often been loose but occasionally formed or even diarrhea (without abdominal pain). Before the gastroenteritis, my bowel habits were irregular,...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If the thyroid blood test report is normal compared to the reference values, you can continue to monitor whether your bowel habits will return to normal or if the current condition becomes a new baseline. Dietary adjustments or taking probiotics may help; if there is no im...[Read More] Loose Stools, Diarrhea, and Weight Loss: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Blood in the stool? Hello Dr. Chen, I experienced abdominal pain and diarrhea yesterday evening, but I felt some relief after the diarrhea. However, this morning my stool was thin, and there was a piece of mucus-streaked bloody stool attached to it. Additionally, I have a dull pa...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can continue to observe, but if you are very concerned, you can visit a gastroenterology clinic for a colonoscopy or a fecal occult blood test.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help