Understanding Liver Fibrosis: Blood Test Insights and Evaluation Methods
Liver fibrosis Hello Doctor: In June of this year, I had an abdominal ultrasound, and the doctor mentioned that my liver appeared coarse. I learned that this indicates liver fibrosis, which has made me very sad and worried. A month later, I had a blood test, and the results showe...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, the accumulation of sufficient liver fibrosis leads to cirrhosis. The diagnosis of cirrhosis is often based on a combination of blood test results and ultrasound imaging of the liver. Factors such as the observation of liver stiffness, platelet count, the GOT/GPT ratio, th...[Read More] Understanding Liver Fibrosis: Blood Test Insights and Evaluation Methods
Understanding the Shift from Negative to Positive HBsAg in Hepatology
The surface antigen changed from negative to positive? In the past two years, the blood tests showed HBsAg: negative and Anti-HBs antibody: positive. However, last week’s blood test results showed HBsAg: changed from negative to positive (with two consecutive tests both positive)...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: From a theoretical standpoint, a change in HBsAg from negative to positive indicates an infection with hepatitis B. However, it is advisable to consider the quantity of HBsAg, as some low-level positive reactions may be laboratory errors. Essentially, a positive Anti-HBs a...[Read More] Understanding the Shift from Negative to Positive HBsAg in Hepatology
Post-Surgery Appetite Loss in Hepatitis C Patients: Dietary Tips
Hepatitis C has undergone surgery; dietary considerations? Hello Dr. Tsai, I would like to ask you about my grandfather. He was diagnosed with hepatitis C after a blood test, and the doctor recommended surgery. Now that the surgery has been completed, he has been experiencing a c...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: I would like to know if I can take supplements, drink chicken essence, and have questions about dietary types. It is advisable to consult the surgeon for appropriate recommendations, as the reasons for undergoing surgery and any contraindications can vary depending on the ...[Read More] Post-Surgery Appetite Loss in Hepatitis C Patients: Dietary Tips
Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: Causes of Abdominal Pain and Distress
Narrow stools, abdominal pain, and borborygmi? Hello, doctor. For the past two months, my bowel movements have been sometimes thick and sometimes thin, with occasional diarrhea. About a week after my stools started to become thinner, I began to experience discomfort in my lower l...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: Abnormal intestinal motility is also known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is advisable to maintain a regular diet and portion control, and you may take gastrointestinal medications for adjustment. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: Causes of Abdominal Pain and Distress
Frequent Gastroenteritis: When to Seek Further Testing and Treatment
Frequent gastroenteritis? In February of this year, during the Lunar New Year, I experienced persistent diarrhea for unknown reasons. I visited a clinic, but the medication I received was ineffective, so I went to the emergency room. The doctor conducted blood tests and bacterial...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If you have already undergone a colonoscopy and no issues were found, there is no need to worry excessively. If necessary, a routine stool test can be conducted to better understand the cause of diarrhea. The most common causes of acute gastroenteritis are usually related ...[Read More] Frequent Gastroenteritis: When to Seek Further Testing and Treatment
Can Hair Clippers Transmit Hepatitis? Understanding Infection Risks
Questions about the transmission routes of hepatitis? I saw news reports indicating that barbers' razors could potentially transmit hepatitis. Do electric clippers, similar to razors, also pose a risk? Or do both pose a risk? If I want to check if I have hepatitis, is a bloo...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It should be noted that certain types of hepatitis are transmitted through blood, specifically Hepatitis B or C. However, the likelihood of transmission is very low, so there is no need for excessive concern. The necessary condition for transmission is that the previous us...[Read More] Can Hair Clippers Transmit Hepatitis? Understanding Infection Risks
Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Causes of Bloating and Gas Issues
Lower abdominal fullness and discomfort, occasional cramping, difficulty with bowel movements, and persistent gas production? Hello doctor, I have bowel movements 2 to 3 times a day. The shape of my stool varies; sometimes it is thin and sometimes it floats on the water. Over the...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: If you are experiencing bloating despite having normal bowel movements and your endoscopy results are normal, it is likely a matter of personal perception. You may consider adjusting your gastrointestinal medications and diet, and if necessary, adding anti-anxiety me...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Causes of Bloating and Gas Issues
Dealing with Hard, Pellet-Like Stools: Causes and Solutions
It has been nearly two weeks since I have had hard, pellet-like stools? Hello, doctor. In the past, I would have a bowel movement every morning that would take less than 10 minutes, and it was mostly normal. However, for the past two weeks, I have still been having a bowel moveme...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, constipation may be causing hemorrhoidal bleeding. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, and drink plenty of fluids while avoiding fried and irritating foods. If the bleeding persists, please consult a colorectal surgeon at the Department of Gastroenterology, Taoy...[Read More] Dealing with Hard, Pellet-Like Stools: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Liver Fibrosis: Causes, Treatment, and Next Steps
Liver fibrosis Hello doctor, a few days ago I had an abdominal ultrasound that revealed liver fibrosis. I then went to Taoyuan Shengbaolu Hospital for blood tests and another abdominal ultrasound. The doctor said the fibrosis is manageable and suggested monitoring it again in a y...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: The ultrasound diagnosis of mild liver fibrosis is a very subjective statement (the objective assessment is through liver biopsy). Therefore, as long as you do not have hepatitis B or C, do not consume alcohol excessively, and have normal liver function, you do not n...[Read More] Understanding Liver Fibrosis: Causes, Treatment, and Next Steps
Understanding Blood on Toilet Paper: What Could It Mean?
There is a small amount of blood when wiping after a bowel movement? Recently, I noticed something that looks like blood on the toilet paper after wiping, but I didn't see any blood in the stool. The stool is golden yellow, and I also had a fecal occult blood test done, whic...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Most likely, it is a case of hemorrhoids or anal fissures. It is recommended to have a bowel movement daily to prevent the stool from becoming too large in diameter. Avoid straining too much during bowel movements to prevent similar situations from occurring. If the condit...[Read More] Understanding Blood on Toilet Paper: What Could It Mean?
Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Gastrointestinal Health
Mucus in stool Hello doctor, six months ago I had a colonoscopy and a stool occult blood test. However, two days ago, I noticed a small amount of bright red blood in my stool. Yesterday, my stool felt very bulky, and it seemed to stretch my anus more than usual, with more fresh b...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: The localized bleeding is likely due to hard, large stools irritating the anal area. Therefore, you can use stool softeners and hemostatic agents. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Gastrointestinal Health
Concerns About Loose Stools and Pinkish Discoloration: When to Seek Help?
Feces Hello Dr. Chen, I had a normal fecal occult blood test a while ago, but recently I've noticed that my stools have been loose and there are some pinkish specks mixed in with the stool. When I flush, it breaks apart. This has been ongoing for a while. Should I be concern...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, the influence of food color should be ruled out first. The fecal occult blood test is normal, which can exclude bleeding. If bleeding is suspected after observation, you may visit the outpatient department of the Gastroenterology Division at Taoyuan General Hospital, Minis...[Read More] Concerns About Loose Stools and Pinkish Discoloration: When to Seek Help?
Understanding Fatigue and Digestive Issues: A Gastroenterology Perspective
Regarding the issue? Hello, doctor. I often experience extreme fatigue (to the point where I struggle to speak and walk) along with dizziness and excessive sleepiness. Although sleep and rest can alleviate these symptoms, they return after about half an hour. I have consulted bot...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: ① If liver function is normal, there are no further concerns. ② Difficulty digesting vegetables is often due to not chewing them thoroughly, so please chew well. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shih-Tien[Read More] Understanding Fatigue and Digestive Issues: A Gastroenterology Perspective
Understanding Diarrhea and Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Concerns
Diarrhea and elevated total bilirubin levels? Hello Doctor, last week my bowel movements were either soft stools or diarrhea, and I have been experiencing a dull pain in my stomach and abdomen. Therefore, I visited a gastroenterologist this Monday. The doctor pressed on my right ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: You can continue to monitor the clinical situation of your right upper abdominal pain. If it worsens, you should seek medical attention sooner. The diarrhea may be indicative of acute gastroenteritis. In certain cases, severe enteritis can also lead to jaundice, but the li...[Read More] Understanding Diarrhea and Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Concerns
Persistent Lower Abdominal Pain: Should You Consider a Colonoscopy?
Lower abdominal discomfort with tenderness upon palpation for an extended period? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing a dull, pressing pain in my lower abdomen for a long time. The color of my stool is normal, but the shape has changed to a tapered end, and sometimes it appear...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: There is currently no need for further invasive examinations (the likelihood of a normal colonoscopy is quite high). Just be patient and follow up regularly, using symptomatic treatment medications and maintaining a balanced diet to monitor any changes in weight. Chan...[Read More] Persistent Lower Abdominal Pain: Should You Consider a Colonoscopy?
Persistent Diarrhea: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation?
Gastrointestinal discomfort? I have been experiencing diarrhea for the past month. I underwent a fecal occult blood test, which showed no issues, but I am still having diarrhea. Should I undergo further testing? Thank you.
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, you may consider undergoing a barium enema or a colonoscopy, along with other tests such as stool culture for infections. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Persistent Diarrhea: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation?
Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test Results and Next Steps
Fecal occult blood test issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a few questions and would appreciate your assistance. Thank you. 1. Currently, the National Health Administration is promoting fecal occult blood testing, and if the result is positive, a colonoscopy is required....
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, hemorrhoid issues can be observed during a colonoscopy. If the colonoscopy results are normal, then observation is sufficient for individuals with disabilities. If a barium enema has already been performed, considering a flexible sigmoidoscopy may have a higher chance of s...[Read More] Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test Results and Next Steps
Chronic Abdominal Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Chronic abdominal pain? Hello Dr. Yang. I started experiencing dull pain in my lower left abdomen on October 26. My bowel movements have mostly been watery, resembling diarrhea. Initially, I went to the hospital for a stool occult blood test, but the doctor said it came back nega...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Dear Mr. Hsiao, Hello. Your symptoms seem to be more indicative of inflammation. However, given your family history, if this situation occurs repeatedly, we can arrange for further examinations (including repeat stool tests, colonoscopy, and even a CT scan).[Read More] Chronic Abdominal Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Blood in the stool? Recently, my stool appears normal, but after sitting in the water for a while, the water at the bottom turns red. What could be the reason for this?
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, this is Dr. Chen Chi-Feng, attending physician of the Gastroenterology Department at Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare. Regarding the fecal occult blood test, please feel free to reach out for any inquiries.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Hepatitis C Transmission Risks and Testing Window
Questions about the transmission routes of Hepatitis C infection? I would like to ask the doctor about the recent outbreak of Hepatitis C in the southern region. If I have sores in my mouth and visit a dental clinic for an examination, without undergoing teeth cleaning or extract...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: Currently, there is no widespread outbreak of Hepatitis C. Dental clinics generally adhere to high standards of disinfection, and the risk of infection is extremely low. Using disposable instruments (at your own expense) is certainly safer. Hepatitis C is primarily tr...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis C Transmission Risks and Testing Window