Understanding Bloating and Discomfort: Gastrointestinal Health Insights
Feeling of fullness discomfort Hello, Doctor: I started experiencing gastroenteritis around the time before the Lunar New Year. At that time, I had mild diarrhea, fever, dizziness, and stomach pain when eating. Now, I no longer have diarrhea, but I often feel full, have little ap...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If the symptoms of gastroenteritis improve but there is still the presence of occult blood in the stool, it is indeed necessary to undergo gastroscopy/colonoscopy. In terms of diet, try to maintain a balanced intake and avoid irritating foods. Generally, the likelihood of ...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Discomfort: Gastrointestinal Health Insights
Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: A Guide for Middle-Aged Women
Bowel issues Hello, doctor! I am the daughter asking on behalf of my mother (who is 50 years old). My mother initially had normal bowel movements, but about 1 to 2 months ago, she suddenly experienced diarrhea for 2 to 3 days, followed by a month of soft stools. After that, her b...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Based on the symptoms, it may be indicative of colonic dysfunction. If the symptoms persist, consideration should be given to undergoing a colonoscopy or a barium enema. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: A Guide for Middle-Aged Women
Can I Get Pregnant After Successful Hepatitis C Treatment?
Can a person with hepatitis C become pregnant? I underwent interferon treatment in 2011, which was successful! I have not had a recurrence during follow-up visits. I am currently planning to get pregnant. Can I conceive under these circumstances? Will pregnancy have any effects? ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) Individuals who are carriers of Hepatitis C can become pregnant and engage in sexual activity; however, there is a possibility of transmitting the virus to their child or sexual partner. If successful interferon treatment has been administered and the virus has been cl...[Read More] Can I Get Pregnant After Successful Hepatitis C Treatment?
Understanding Gastrointestinal and Rectal Issues: When to Seek Help
Gastrointestinal and rectal issues? Hello Doctor: From July to October last year, shortly after dinner, I would feel a strong urge to use the bathroom (with semi-diarrhea) about 4 to 5 times a week. My daily bathroom frequency was once in the morning (normal) and once in the even...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello, (1) it is possible that you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, it is important to note that the main characteristics of IBS include periodic and recurrent changes, with abdominal pain alleviating after bowel movements, which may be accompanied by constipation or...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal and Rectal Issues: When to Seek Help
Understanding Bloating and Thin Stool: Are They Signs of Colon Cancer?
Abdominal distension and narrowed stools? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing bloating in my intestines and stomach for the past few days, along with frequent burping and flatulence. My appetite has not decreased, and there is no blood in my stool, but it is thin, unformed, an...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: It is likely not colorectal cancer, but rather a disorder of gastrointestinal motility (irritable bowel syndrome). However, please have a fecal occult blood test done first. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Thin Stool: Are They Signs of Colon Cancer?
Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Abdominal discomfort? I have been experiencing an itchy sensation in my upper left abdomen for the past 12 days, along with recent constipation and the passage of clear liquid. Additionally, a previous stool occult blood test was normal. Could this be irritable bowel syndrome?
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is characterized by recurrent and cyclical changes, and cannot be diagnosed based solely on symptoms lasting 12 days. It is recommended to increase the intake of fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, and prioritize resolving constipation as a...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions
Gastrointestinal and bowel issues? I have been experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort for several years. Three years ago, I underwent a colonoscopy and had several polyps removed. About nine months ago, I had a stool occult blood test that came back normal, and an upper endosco...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Dear Mr. Cong, You had colorectal polyps a few years ago, and it is recommended that you continue to follow up with a colonoscopy rather than using fecal occult blood tests for monitoring. Your symptoms sound like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Gastroenteritis usually resolves...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions
Understanding the Risks of Reactivation in Chronic Hepatitis B Carriers
Questions about asymptomatic carriers? Hello Dr. Tsai, I have been a carrier of hepatitis B since I was in my specialty training. I found out during a health check at work when I was about 27 years old that my HBeAg was negative. I have also had two or three HBV viral load tests,...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) The activation of hepatitis B virus is usually associated with a decline in immune function, such as excessive fatigue, or the use of corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, undergoing chemotherapy, alcohol consumption, etc. In some cases, the activation may occur for unk...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Reactivation in Chronic Hepatitis B Carriers
Understanding White Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns
White mucous stools with blood? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about something. Recently, I have noticed white mucus in my stool, which has made me a bit worried. I consulted at the nearest hospital and underwent a stool occult blood test, which came back negative. The doctor ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is likely a normal phenomenon of colonic mucosal shedding. However, if there is persistent or increasing fresh blood in the stool, it is advisable to return for a follow-up with a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. ...[Read More] Understanding White Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Chronic Gastritis, IBS, and Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
Gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), colorectal cancer? Hello Doctor: I have a long-standing condition of chronic gastritis, and you have previously suspected the possibility of irritable bowel syndrome. Symptoms such as belching and burping have persisted for quite some ti...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: In terms of age, the likelihood of you developing colorectal cancer is quite low. My suggestion is to adjust your lifestyle, manage stress, and improve your dietary habits, along with engaging in regular exercise. However, if you experience significant weight loss or recta...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Gastritis, IBS, and Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
Is It Appendicitis? Understanding Symptoms and Diagnosis
Is it appendicitis? Hello, doctor. I am 23 years old and have not had any abdominal surgeries. I have been experiencing pain in my lower right abdomen (including the side) for the past three days. This morning, I visited my family physician, and after blood tests and X-rays, ever...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
1. Most cases of appendicitis will present with fever and leukocytosis. 2. Computed tomography can assist in the diagnosis. 3. Symptoms of general gastroenteritis also require a certain amount of time to resolve, typically around 3 to 7 days. 4. Acute abdominal pain should ...[Read More] Is It Appendicitis? Understanding Symptoms and Diagnosis
Understanding Liver Cancer Treatment Options and Follow-Up Care
Treatment options for liver cancer? Dear Dr. Chen, My father underwent surgery for gastroesophageal junction cancer (stage III) in November 2015. After the surgery, he had a follow-up positron emission tomography (PET) scan to monitor his recovery, which revealed two liver tumor...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
If a series of follow-ups consistently shows a liver tumor that remains unchanged in size, it is likely benign. However, if it was not detected in previous examinations and is a recent finding, especially in the presence of hepatitis B or C, the likelihood of it being liver cance...[Read More] Understanding Liver Cancer Treatment Options and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Hepatitis B e Antibody: Treatment Outcomes and Longevity
Hepatitis B e antibody (anti-HBe) Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask you: If after taking antiviral medication for six months, the blood test shows e-antibody <1, but the e-antigen is still positive and the viral load is undetectable, does this still indicate that the patient ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
1. In chronic hepatitis B patients who are e-antigen positive and have liver enzyme levels more than twice the normal limit, after six months of antiviral medication, if the viral load is undetectable, it cannot be considered a cure. The treatment goal is to continue until e-anti...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B e Antibody: Treatment Outcomes and Longevity
Understanding the Connection Between IBS and Stomach Discomfort
Feeling unwell? Hello doctor, recently I have been experiencing bloating and discomfort in my stomach after meals, feeling nauseous, and having frequent burping. My bowel movements have been inconsistent, sometimes constipated and other times loose. After eating ginger duck aroun...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Chen: The gastrointestinal system can influence each other. The diagnosis is irritable bowel syndrome, and it is advisable to take medication and control your diet. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between IBS and Stomach Discomfort
Excessive Flatulence: Is It Normal or a Sign of Underlying Issues?
Regarding the sound of flatulence? Hello, doctor. I usually enjoy eating bean products, so I tend to pass gas frequently. However, I've recently noticed that there are certain times during the day when I experience a significant amount of gas, averaging about once per minute...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Passing gas does not necessarily indicate an intestinal disease. If you can, try to pass gas quietly and without straining. Reducing your intake of soy products may help improve your condition. Additionally, if you are still concerned, you can undergo a stool occult blood ...[Read More] Excessive Flatulence: Is It Normal or a Sign of Underlying Issues?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Advice
Gastrointestinal symptoms Hello doctor, for the past two months, my stool has been varying in thickness, sometimes being thin and occasionally experiencing diarrhea. About a week after my stool started to become thinner, I began to feel discomfort in my lower left abdomen, a dull...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If the small red spot is blood, it should diffuse into pink water in the toilet. Therefore, you can observe it further. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. If the situation does not improve, you may visit a gastroenterologist again for an accurate diagnosis. Cha...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Blood Test Results: Assessing Liver Fibrosis with AST Levels
Blood Test Report Doctor: My blood test results show that my AST (also known as GOT) is 20.4, and my platelet count is 204,000. There is no evidence of hepatitis B or C. Can this be used to assess whether the subject has liver fibrosis? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, it is not possible to determine liver fibrosis solely based on this. It is necessary to refer to the A/G ratio, the GOT/GPT ratio, and abdominal ultrasound imaging. Dr. Chen Chi-Feng, attending physician of the Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology at Taoyuan Ge...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Assessing Liver Fibrosis with AST Levels
Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: From Diarrhea to Constipation
Changes in bowel habits Hello Doctor: I have a rather impatient personality and tend to get nervous easily. I exercise regularly, but I have had gastrointestinal issues since my school days, with my stools generally being soft or loose. Whenever I have exams and feel anxious, I e...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: A change in bowel habits should be compared to one's own usual habits; if it has been consistent over many years, it cannot be considered a change. However, if there is accompanying weight loss or blood in the stool, a follow-up visit is necessary. After all, the sens...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: From Diarrhea to Constipation
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Blood in Stool and Digestive Health
There is some red water next to the stool? Doctor, I'm sorry, but my digestive system has never been very good, and I often experience diarrhea. The consistency of my stool varies; sometimes it's thick, and sometimes it's thin. I'm not sure if this indicates a...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to undergo a fecal occult blood test so you won't have to worry or guess anymore, and there's no need to take traditional Chinese medicine for this reason. Please be mindful not to consume alcohol excessively. Changhua Hospital cares about your ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Blood in Stool and Digestive Health
Persistent Lower Abdominal Discomfort After Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
After having a bowel movement, there is still a feeling of heaviness and bloating in the lower abdomen? I have a regular bowel movement once in the morning and once after lunch. My stools are often short or thin and float on the water. Sometimes they are dark green, while other t...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to consume more fruits and vegetables regularly. Ensure adequate hydration, engage in moderate exercise, and reduce the intake of gas-producing foods. If you still experience bloating, irregular bowel movements, or anemia, it is advisable to undergo stool...[Read More] Persistent Lower Abdominal Discomfort After Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions