Understanding Right Abdominal Pain: Is Obesity the Cause?
Obesity. Occasional sharp pain just below the right breast? Hello, doctor. I am quite overweight, over 100 kilograms. The fat just below my right breast is consistently a bit larger than the left side, and it feels soft to the touch. Occasionally, I experience sharp pains a few t...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It may be more accurate to locate the liver at the lower edge of the ribs. You can consult a gastroenterologist to see if an abdominal ultrasound is necessary. Strict control of diet and exercise is essential to manage weight. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr....[Read More] Understanding Right Abdominal Pain: Is Obesity the Cause?
Understanding Colonoscopy Results: What Severe Hemorrhoids Mean for Your Health
Colonoscopy Hello doctor, I had a fecal occult blood test in May, which showed a 2+ result. I took the test during my menstrual period. The doctor asked me to retest, and in June, the result was 1+. The doctor recommended a colonoscopy, and after the procedure, he only told me th...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
1. Hemorrhoids can also be a cause of positive fecal occult blood tests, while the intestines may be normal. 2. Severe hemorrhoids may lead to bleeding, prolapse, infection, or even complications such as fistula. Please consult a colorectal surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Colonoscopy Results: What Severe Hemorrhoids Mean for Your Health
Understanding Colonoscopy: When to Seek Testing for Digestive Issues
Colonoscopy Hello, I have been struggling with chronic constipation, sometimes going 5 to 6 days without a bowel movement. Usually, my stools are hard. However, a year ago, my bowel habits changed, and I would have a bowel movement every 3 to 4 days, but they were loose and unfor...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Ms. Chiu, the tests are arranged after an evaluation by the physician, not based on your personal preference for what tests to schedule. Some conditions cannot be detected by a colonoscopy alone, so the physician's recommendation for specific tests is made with a purpo...[Read More] Understanding Colonoscopy: When to Seek Testing for Digestive Issues
Understanding Digestive Issues: Ulcers, Bowel Changes, and Diet Concerns
Abdominal bowel movement concerns? Hello, Doctor. I apologize for continuously asking you questions. I am 16 years old and have been experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort and mild indigestion for the past two months. I underwent an endoscopy at Yuanlin Christian Hospital, wher...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Ulcers will not cause the symptoms you described; however, irritable bowel syndrome or food that is not chewed properly may result in undigested food in the stool. 2. Rapid bowel movement can lead to such situations; it is recommended to maintain a balanced diet and che...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Ulcers, Bowel Changes, and Diet Concerns
Understanding Stool Color Changes: What Your Digestive Health Says
The color of stool? Hello, on May 31, I ate carrots. On June 1, my stool was shaped like a log and golden yellow but slightly orange. On June 2, the stool was also golden yellow with a slight orange tint, but I noticed a tiny bit of red. There was no red on the toilet paper, only...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. It is likely a normal phenomenon; chewing food thoroughly before swallowing can help prevent this situation. 2. The quantitative immunoassay (iFOBT) detects human hemoglobin-specific antibodies and is not affected by diet, meaning it will not be influenced by consuming ...[Read More] Understanding Stool Color Changes: What Your Digestive Health Says
Persistent Belching and Dizziness: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Persistent belching accompanied by dizziness? Hello, doctor. For the past one to two weeks, I have been experiencing frequent burping, both after meals and even when I haven't eaten. I burp at least 20 to 30 times a day, and I also feel dizzy and very fatigued, wanting to sl...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Avoid overeating and try to consume foods that are easier to digest. After eating, do not sit or lie down immediately. If there is no improvement, you may consult a gastroenterologist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Persistent Belching and Dizziness: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Bloating, Chest Tightness, and Liver Function Issues
Abdominal bloating, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and abnormal liver function tests? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if bloating can cause chest tightness and difficulty breathing. Two weeks ago, I visited a gastroenterologist, and during an abdominal ultrasound, the ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. If the medication does not improve your condition, you may need to return for a follow-up appointment to inform your physician and adjust the medication. 2. If GOT is greater than GPT, please consider whether you have taken any herbal medicine or consumed alcohol. As fo...[Read More] Understanding Bloating, Chest Tightness, and Liver Function Issues
Understanding Stomach Discomfort: Gas, Stress, and Digestive Issues
Stomach pain and belching? About two months ago, I sought medical attention due to bloating. At that time, I felt uncomfortable regardless of my posture, but there was no pain. After taking medication for nearly two weeks, the discomfort eased, but I still occasionally experience...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. If emotional factors are suspected, adjustments should be made as much as possible. 2. It may be related to gastroesophageal reflux, but there could be other causes that need to be assessed by a clinical physician. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Discomfort: Gas, Stress, and Digestive Issues
Understanding Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Gastrointestinal issues Hello, I have been experiencing a dull pain in the upper left part of my abdomen, near the ribs. Sometimes it occurs in the upper right or in the middle, but for the past couple of days, it has mainly been concentrated in the upper left area. The pain is n...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. The type of examination should be determined by a clinical physician. If there are no abnormalities in the stool test, dietary adjustments should be made. If there is no improvement, a consultation with a gastroenterologist is necessary. 2. It is recommended to return f...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Symptoms and Next Steps
Abdominal discomfort? Hello, about five months ago, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and blood, urine, and stool occult blood tests due to gastrointestinal discomfort. The doctor mentioned some reflux and inflammation, and the occult blood indicated the presence of...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, please discuss with the original gastroenterologist whether further examination or treatment is necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Symptoms and Next Steps
Frequent Gas and Burping: Understanding Digestive Issues After GERD
Frequent flatulence and belching? At the end of January, I underwent an endoscopy which revealed symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastritis. I have been taking antacids for three months. However, I still experience frequent belching after meals. Since the en...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. A fecal occult blood test can be performed to determine if further examination is necessary. Generally, it is often just an abnormality in gastrointestinal motility, which can be managed with medication (+/- probiotics). Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen...[Read More] Frequent Gas and Burping: Understanding Digestive Issues After GERD
Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test Accuracy and Interpretation
Accuracy of Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) Hello, this Wednesday my stool was a bit coffee-colored, so I used a fecal occult blood test strip yesterday and today, and all three tests showed no color change, indicating a negative result. However, there were two instances that rais...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. The modern immunological testing is more reliable and should not result in the issues you mentioned. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test Accuracy and Interpretation
Understanding Rectal Pressure: Symptoms and When to Seek Specialist Care
Anal heaviness Hello Doctor, about two months ago I experienced a single episode of rectal bleeding (bright red blood, painless), after which I became particularly sensitive regarding my gastrointestinal health. Here are the main symptoms and test results from the past two months...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. With a negative occult blood test and being under 50 years old, your risk is low, and you may simply continue with follow-up. If you still feel unwell or have concerns, you can visit a gastroenterology clinic for an examination when you return to Taiwan. Changhua Hosp...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Pressure: Symptoms and When to Seek Specialist Care
Understanding Bowel Issues: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation
Bowel issues Hello Dr. Chen, last year I underwent a fecal occult blood test due to my stool becoming thinner. Since there was blood present, I subsequently had a colonoscopy, which yielded normal results. Over the past few months, I have noticed the following symptoms: 1. My sto...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. You are likely experiencing irritable bowel syndrome, so there is no need for a colonoscopy. You only need to improve your lifestyle, diet, and routine, and take the prescribed medications for adjustment. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes and Fatigue: Key Insights
Elevated liver enzymes and fatigue? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, and alternating chills and fever for about a month. My health check report regarding liver function shows that both GOT and GPT are at 25 (max. 35), while GGT is at 63 (m...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Values within the normal range are considered normal. There is no need to worry excessively. Medications that can be avoided should not be taken unless absolutely necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes and Fatigue: Key Insights
Should I Extend My Interferon Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis B?
Please inquire about the interferon treatment regimen for hepatitis B? Hello, I am a carrier of hepatitis B, with vertical transmission from my mother. A year ago, my GOT and GPT levels were about twice the normal values, which qualified me for health insurance coverage. I underw...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. Interferon treatment is typically standardized for one year, and extending the treatment is not recommended. After discontinuation, there may still be subsequent immune effects, so continued monitoring is necessary. On the other hand, if there is a severe hepatitis fl...[Read More] Should I Extend My Interferon Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis B?
Managing Persistent Abdominal Discomfort After Meals: Expert Insights
There is a sensation of a foreign body in the left lower abdomen, which becomes more pronounced after eating? I have undergone a colonoscopy and an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, as well as a fecal occult blood test, all of which showed no issues. However, I constantly feel a ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. The endoscopy was performed to rule out serious diseases, and it appears that your digestive motility is somewhat abnormal. Since you are more sensitive, it is recommended to eat small amounts, take a walk after meals to avoid exacerbating discomfort, and pay attentio...[Read More] Managing Persistent Abdominal Discomfort After Meals: Expert Insights
Understanding Abnormal ALT and AST Levels: Tips for Recovery
Blood test report Hello Doctor, I have a question. Due to long-term night shifts, I had a blood test and found two abnormalities: ALT (GPT) 49 and AST (GOT) 36. How can I maintain my health to restore these levels to normal? If this condition does not improve, what could be the p...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello, GPT49. There are some signs of liver inflammation. You should ensure adequate sleep, avoid alcohol, and traditional Chinese medicine, among other things. There is no need to worry too much. You can have regular follow-ups with a hepatobiliary and gastroenterology specialis...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal ALT and AST Levels: Tips for Recovery
Understanding Fatty Liver: Concerns About Hepatomegaly and Next Steps
Fatty liver with abdominal distension? Hello. In January of this year, I underwent an abdominal ultrasound due to abdominal pain, and the report indicated fatty liver. The ultrasound report stated: "liver is normal size with smooth outline. There is diffuse increase in echog...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. The normal liver size is approximately 25 cm in length, 15 cm in height, and 16 cm in width. 2. I'm not sure how often your physician has advised you to return for follow-up; if there are no specific concerns, a follow-up with blood tests and ultrasound every six m...[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver: Concerns About Hepatomegaly and Next Steps
Understanding Liver Tumors: Assessing Cancer Risk and Follow-Up Care
There is a tumor in the liver? Hello Doctor: In February, an abdominal ultrasound revealed two tumors in my liver (0.6 cm and 1.7 cm). During a follow-up in April, another tumor was found (0.8 cm). The previous two tumors had not grown, and the doctor mentioned that they might ha...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, the probability is low, but further monitoring is needed. If necessary, a CT scan or MRI may be performed for evaluation. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Liver Tumors: Assessing Cancer Risk and Follow-Up Care