How Often Should You Get a Colonoscopy and Endoscopy After Previous Exams?
How often should colonoscopies and upper endoscopies be recommended for follow-up? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask, if I underwent a painless endoscopy (gastroscopy and colonoscopy) 2 to 3 years ago and there were no significant issues (e.g., polyps), what would be an appropri...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. Regarding your gastrointestinal issues, observation along with dietary and medication adjustments should suffice. Liver function can be monitored every 3 to 6 months, and it is important to avoid becoming overweight. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shi...[Read More] How Often Should You Get a Colonoscopy and Endoscopy After Previous Exams?
Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain After Liver Transplant: Causes and Solutions
Right lower abdominal cramping pain? I had a liver transplant 15 years ago. For the past three years, I've experienced loud stomach noises daily. My hepatologist suggested that it might be due to intestinal adhesions and recommended probiotics, which improved the stomach noi...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If you want to confirm whether there is an increase in retained stool or gas in the intestines, you may consider visiting a gastroenterologist to see if an X-ray is necessary. Additionally, it is recommended to increase your fluid intake and to chew vegetables and fruits t...[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain After Liver Transplant: Causes and Solutions
Do I Need a Colonoscopy After Years of IBS Symptoms?
Hello, I have been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome for many years. Do I need to undergo a colonoscopy? Hello Doctor: When I was 23-24 years old, I traveled abroad and ate too much, which led to gastric bleeding and black stools. I was quite anxious at that time, which was...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Anonymous / 33 years old / Male 1. It is urgent and difficult to discuss certain cancers. Tumor markers are not elevated; some people develop polyps, which are benign. After removal, they will not turn into cancer, which is a good outcome. 2. There is a painless colonoscopy avai...[Read More] Do I Need a Colonoscopy After Years of IBS Symptoms?
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: When to Seek Further Testing
Elevated liver function tests? Hello Dr. Tsai, my husband had a blood test last week that showed elevated liver enzymes. The doctor advised him to rest more, avoid alcohol, and return for follow-up in three months. However, we have a relative whose liver enzymes were normal but s...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Liver function tests alone cannot determine if there is cirrhosis; usually, an ultrasound is required for diagnosis. If you have not had an ultrasound, you can consult a gastroenterologist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: When to Seek Further Testing
Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Understanding Your Symptoms and Concerns
Hello, I would like to ask if I have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Hello, I would like to ask if I have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). When I was about 24 years old, I traveled abroad and may have been too stressed. While there, I overindulged in food and experienced gastroint...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If issues related to the organs themselves or dietary causes can be ruled out, then recurrent and regular episodes can be classified as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Understanding Your Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Left Abdominal Pain and Digestive Issues: What You Need to Know
Gastrointestinal discomfort I have been experiencing a dull pain to the left of my navel for 4.5 months, and sometimes there is blood or a white fluid in my stool. I alternate between diarrhea and constipation. Two weeks ago, I went to the hospital for a fecal occult blood test, ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Please pay attention to your diet and bowel habits. Try to keep your meals light and avoid spicy and fried foods. Establish a routine of daily bowel movements and ensure you are adequately hydrated with sufficient fruits and vegetables. Additionally, try not to be overly s...[Read More] Understanding Left Abdominal Pain and Digestive Issues: What You Need to Know
Understanding Diarrhea and Weight Issues: A Gastroenterology Perspective
Diarrhea and weight issues? I have been experiencing persistent diarrhea for the past four days. My stools have been somewhat formed, resembling mud, but at times they are watery. Normally, I have a bowel movement once every morning and drink 1000 to 2000 cc of water daily. Howev...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If symptoms occur recently while on long-term medication, they are likely not caused by the medication. Sometimes, changing positions can lead to temporary orthostatic hypotension, which is not necessarily related to hemoglobin levels. If you have not been evaluated for en...[Read More] Understanding Diarrhea and Weight Issues: A Gastroenterology Perspective
Is It Blood in My Stool? Understanding Black Spots in Bowel Movements
Is this blood in the stool? Hello, doctor! Today, I noticed some small brown-black spots scattered throughout my stool, while the rest of the stool color appears normal. Although I did eat chocolate on Friday and Saturday, I had a bowel movement on Sunday, and today is Monday. Th...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If you have any doubts, you can visit a gastroenterologist and have a stool occult blood test. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Is It Blood in My Stool? Understanding Black Spots in Bowel Movements
Understanding Bloating and Changes in Bowel Habits: What You Need to Know
Abdominal bloating and changes in bowel habits? Hello, doctor. About 10 days ago, I experienced severe abdominal pain in the middle of the night and went to the emergency room. The emergency physician noted rebound tenderness in the lower abdomen and right lower quadrant, diagnos...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: A CT scan should be able to rule out issues such as obstruction or volvulus. As for whether it is colorectal cancer, it is recommended that if symptoms persist, you consult a gastroenterologist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Changes in Bowel Habits: What You Need to Know
Excessive Gas and Digestive Concerns: What You Need to Know
Recently, I have been experiencing increased flatulence? It has been about four months since the end of last year! I pass gas frequently, sometimes over 30 times a day. I have regular bowel movements, but most of my stools are flat, long, and yellowish, and sometimes they are loo...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Based on the symptoms, it appears to be gastrointestinal dysfunction and dyspepsia. It is recommended to adjust the diet by reducing oil, dairy, and irritants, and to follow a light diet. Limit tea, coffee, dairy products, and eggs, and opt for a mild diet. If there is no improve...[Read More] Excessive Gas and Digestive Concerns: What You Need to Know
Understanding Colonoscopy Anxiety: What to Expect and Common Concerns
Thank you for the doctor's response last time, but I haven't had a colonoscopy yet? Regarding the previous question, I have undergone tests including stool analysis, urinalysis, blood tests, and abdominal ultrasound, all of which returned normal results. A colonoscopy i...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Colonoscopy has its unique characteristics and cannot be replaced by blood tests. Metastasis can occur in many locations and cannot be completely ruled out by ultrasound. Before determining the cause, there is no need for speculation; if necessary, please consult a gastroe...[Read More] Understanding Colonoscopy Anxiety: What to Expect and Common Concerns
Understanding Symptoms of Chronic Hepatitis C: Intermittent vs. Persistent
Symptoms of Hepatitis C Hello doctor, I would like to ask whether the symptoms of chronic hepatitis C are intermittent (for example, feeling unwell today but not tomorrow, and then possibly feeling unwell again in a few days) or if they are continuous discomfort. Also, after the ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss. Most individuals do not exhibit symptoms. If a person is exposed to the blood or bodily fluids of a hepatitis C patient, a preliminary examination should be conducted, and blood tests can be performed 3 to 6 months later to confirm whether an infection has occurred. ...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms of Chronic Hepatitis C: Intermittent vs. Persistent
Improving Digestive Health: Solutions for Loose and Irregular Bowel Movements
Gastrointestinal issues I have been experiencing loose or elongated stools for over two years, occasionally having diarrhea, and sometimes the stools are curled. I go to the bathroom 1 to 2 times a day, and I do not experience abdominal pain after bowel movements. Sometimes, ther...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet and observe if the condition improves. Avoid consuming irritating foods or those that may stimulate intestinal motility. If you still have concerns, you may return for a consultation with a gastroenterologist. Changhua Hospital...[Read More] Improving Digestive Health: Solutions for Loose and Irregular Bowel Movements
Understanding Weight Loss Concerns in Cancer Patients: Key Insights
Regarding the issue of weight loss? Dear doctors, if a person has cancer, will their weight continuously decrease? Is it possible that their weight never increases at all? Last November, I weighed 80 kilograms. Recently, I have been eating a more balanced diet and have developed ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If you are intentionally exercising and have lost weight as a result, there is no need to worry too much, especially since you have already undergone basic examinations, including blood tests, urine tests, stool tests, abdominal ultrasound, and colonoscopy. Additionally, m...[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss Concerns in Cancer Patients: Key Insights
Frequent Diarrhea and Stomach Pain: Should You Get Checked?
Frequent diarrhea and stomach pain, should I get checked? Hello, doctor. I have had gastrointestinal issues since childhood, and even when I don't eat poorly, I often experience diarrhea, so I've gotten used to it. However, I feel that my stomach pain has become more fr...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
It is recommended to undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.[Read More] Frequent Diarrhea and Stomach Pain: Should You Get Checked?
Understanding Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test After Prostate Cancer Surgery
My father's issue with fecal occult blood? Hello Doctor: My father was diagnosed with prostate cancer at the end of December last year and underwent a radical prostatectomy. The pathology report indicated stage 2c. In February of this year, during his first blood test, the d...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Dear Rita: Fecal occult blood will not be affected by food intake. A positive result indicates the presence of blood in the stool. It is recommended that your father consult a gastroenterologist for evaluation, and it would be best to arrange for a colonoscopy. Thank you for your...[Read More] Understanding Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test After Prostate Cancer Surgery
Understanding Hepatitis B: Risks and Vaccination Guidance
Hepatitis issues Dear Doctor: 1. I would like to ask about my test results from the medical laboratory for Hepatitis B. The results show Hepatitis B Antigen: 0.01 (-) and Hepatitis B Antibody: 22.13 (+). If my partner is a carrier of Hepatitis B, is there a possibility that I c...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. You should not need to receive another dose of the vaccine. If there is a genuine risk of exposure, you may receive one dose, and then have a blood test done one month later. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Risks and Vaccination Guidance
Understanding Blood in Stool: Gastrointestinal Concerns and Solutions
Blood in the stool? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing diarrhea for almost two weeks, starting three weeks ago, with a couple of instances of constipation in between. Most of my stools have been yellow and watery, accompanied by stomach discomfort, bloating, and nausea. I hav...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If you are very concerned, you can consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist. Anal pain with slight bleeding is mostly caused by hemorrhoids or anal fissures. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Gastrointestinal Concerns and Solutions
Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Treatment, and Liver Health
Duodenal ulcer I apologize for the inconvenience, but I would like to ask a few questions. Recently, after eating, I started experiencing pain in the upper left abdomen. It was diagnosed as a duodenal ulcer. I was discharged from the hospital a week ago, and the doctor prescribed...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. The primary treatment for ulcers is proton pump inhibitors. 2. Some abdominal discomfort may stem from functional issues, such as rapid or slow peristalsis. Sometimes it can be challenging to identify the cause directly from imaging studies. 3. If there is no persistent...[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Treatment, and Liver Health
Understanding Upper Left Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Abdominal issues? Hello, doctor. Last night, I suddenly felt pain in my upper left abdomen. The pain is localized to that area and does not radiate. It slightly eases when I apply pressure, but it returns when I release it. Should I observe this for a few days before seeking medi...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Discomfort in the upper left abdomen is mostly caused by gastric issues, which may include gastritis, ulcers, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A smaller portion may originate from the colon, the left lower lung lobe, or the heart. It is advisable to start with a ...[Read More] Understanding Upper Left Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention