Understanding Hepatitis B Antibodies: Vaccine Response and Risks
Regarding Hepatitis B antibodies Hello, Dr. Tsai. I would like to ask you a question. I received the hepatitis B vaccine when I was young, but I remember that during a health check in fifth grade, I tested negative for antibodies. About three years ago, I went to a family medicin...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Adolescents are often found to have lost their hepatitis B antibodies during health check-ups. This occurs because the immune memory generated by the hepatitis B vaccine administered at birth gradually fades due to the immune system not being stimulated by viral antigens o...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Antibodies: Vaccine Response and Risks
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Issues with Liver and Gastrointestinal Health
Is there a problem? I have been drinking alcohol almost every day, and recently I've been feeling a pulling sensation just above the right side of my navel for some time. It hurts when I walk and also when I apply pressure. My stomach often feels sharp pain and bloated. When...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for diagnosis and treatment. You may undergo an abdominal ultrasound and blood tests soon. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Ho...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Issues with Liver and Gastrointestinal Health
Does Taking Ulcer Medication Affect Blood Test Results?
Does taking ulcer medication affect blood tests? I have a mild duodenal ulcer and am currently undergoing treatment. My company conducts annual blood tests, and I am currently taking one Talcid tablet daily. I am wondering if this will affect the accuracy of the test results.
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, generally speaking, ulcer medications do not affect biochemical tests. However, they may cause false-negative results in Helicobacter pylori antibody tests. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Tao...[Read More] Does Taking Ulcer Medication Affect Blood Test Results?
Understanding Elevated Amylase and Bilirubin Levels: What You Need to Know
Abnormal biochemical blood test results? Recent blood tests revealed several elevated values, specifically Amylase at 103 U/L (normal range 0-100) and Total Bilirubin at 1.8 mg/dL (normal range 0-1.5). What could be the issue?
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, if this is just a routine check-up, slightly elevated amylase does not indicate clinical significance; slightly elevated total bilirubin, if there are no hemolysis issues and no liver or biliary problems, may suggest a congenital metabolic disorder of bile. It is recommend...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Amylase and Bilirubin Levels: What You Need to Know
Concerns About Hepatitis C Transmission from Shared Hair Tools
Please provide information regarding hepatitis C? Hello, Doctor. 1. Recently, I went to a hair salon for a haircut, and the staff used a comb to massage my scalp quite vigorously, which was a bit painful since I have some pimples on my scalp. Later, I realized that the previous...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: Can Hepatitis C be transmitted through barbering activities? What is the transmission rate? There is still no definitive answer. Generally, it is not something to be overly concerned about. If necessary, you can have a blood test done in 1 to 2 months (testing too ear...[Read More] Concerns About Hepatitis C Transmission from Shared Hair Tools
Understanding Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
The fecal occult blood test result is positive? My father had a positive fecal occult blood test two years ago but has been reluctant to undergo a colonoscopy. At that time, the doctor mentioned that he had mild gastritis from an upper endoscopy, and that he also has diverticulit...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Individuals over the age of 50 can receive free fecal occult blood screening for colorectal cancer every two years from the National Health Administration. If the test result is positive, statistics indicate that approximately 1 in 2 individuals who undergo further colonos...[Read More] Understanding Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
Important Guidelines for Fecal Occult Blood Test in Gastroenterology
Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) During my last visit, the doctor asked me to perform a fecal occult blood test and submit the sample myself. I will review the results during my next appointment. What should I pay attention to? Should the test tube be refrigerated or kept at room t...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: For the fecal occult blood test, you only need to follow the instructions for collection; the specimen does not need to be refrigerated. Wishing you peace and health. Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Important Guidelines for Fecal Occult Blood Test in Gastroenterology
Understanding Unusual Stool Colors: What Deep Orange and Light Orange Mean
The bowel movement is different from usual? Today, I noticed something unusual during a bowel movement. There were some deep orange substances surrounding my stool, and some were light orange. I hope to understand the reason for this.
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Generally, the presence of orange substances in stool is usually due to food residues, medications, or food coloring. It is advisable to monitor subsequent bowel movements. If you are concerned, you may visit a gastroenterologist for evaluation, and consider undergoing tes...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Stool Colors: What Deep Orange and Light Orange Mean
Exploring Gastrointestinal Causes of Fatigue and Dizziness
Fatigue, dizziness, drowsiness? Hello Dr. Chen, regarding the topic of fatigue factors, blood tests are fine, and brainwave tests are also normal, with no insomnia. I have consulted with an ENT specialist multiple times, but I have not been able to achieve complete improvement. T...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Your fatigue, dizziness, and drowsiness seem to have no apparent cause. It is recommended to undergo a health check-up covered by health insurance for adults; if no abnormalities are found, it may be chronic fatigue syndrome. Wishing you peace and health. Dr. Chen Chih-Fen...[Read More] Exploring Gastrointestinal Causes of Fatigue and Dizziness
Could Irregular Sleep and Alcohol Affect My Liver Antibodies?
Insufficient liver antibodies? Irregular sleep patterns and a reversed day-night cycle, along with a history of frequent alcohol consumption, could indeed contribute to your current difficulty in waking up after sleeping. Additionally, if your high school health check indicated i...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Fatigue or drowsiness may be related to the liver, but it is essential to undergo blood tests to confirm any liver function abnormalities. If liver function is normal, then fatigue or drowsiness is likely not related to the liver. Additionally, insufficient antibodies like...[Read More] Could Irregular Sleep and Alcohol Affect My Liver Antibodies?
Understanding Severe Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Severe gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello Dr. Chen, I have severe constipation (about every 4 to 5 days). After the Lunar New Year, on "working days," I often feel gastrointestinal discomfort and headaches around 3 PM. I visited a clinic and informed the doctor, who sug...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms, it appears to be a case of functional gastrointestinal disorder. It is recommended to start with dietary adjustments. The principles are to reduce oil, meat, and dairy intake, while increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables, as well as hydr...[Read More] Understanding Severe Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Concerns About Colonoscopy Findings: What You Need to Know
Colonoscopy issues? Hello, My wife (25 years old) has been experiencing symptoms such as constipation, abdominal pain, and blood in her stool for the past year. Her stools are usually thin and soft, and she often alternates between constipation and diarrhea. Despite increasing ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Sir: 1. You should trust your physician's judgment, but there are indeed exceptions in the world. 2. If you have no symptoms, there is no need for medication treatment. 3. Hemorrhoids are vascular tissues at the anal opening, and everyone has them to some extent; if t...[Read More] Concerns About Colonoscopy Findings: What You Need to Know
Understanding Hepatitis B Antibodies: What Your Test Results Mean
Hepatitis B antibodies Hello Doctor: Six months ago, I had a blood test for hepatitis B antibodies, and the results showed that both the surface antigen (HepAg) and surface antibody (HepAb) were negative. Since my partner is a carrier of hepatitis B, I completed three doses of th...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: Those who have surface antibodies are almost unlikely to have surface antigens, so there is no need to worry. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Antibodies: What Your Test Results Mean
Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccine Booster and Antibody Testing
Issues Related to Hepatitis B Vaccination Hello, Doctor. I am currently 30 years old and living abroad. I received the hepatitis B vaccine in Taiwan when I was a child, but I no longer have antibodies. The doctor here mentioned that the vaccine requires three doses: the first and...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Ms. Chang, 1. For those receiving booster vaccinations, a follow-up check can typically be done one month later. 2. For individuals who do not produce antibodies after the booster and are not healthcare workers, it is no longer recommended to administer additional vaccine...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccine Booster and Antibody Testing
Understanding Pancreatic Variations: Concerns and Next Steps After Diagnosis
Please provide more details regarding the pancreatic issues you are experiencing? Hello, Dr. Lin. A month ago, when I returned to Taiwan and underwent a comprehensive health check at Asia University Hospital, an abdominal ultrasound revealed a hyperechoic nodule approximately 1 c...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Congenital variations of the pancreas are not common and are difficult to examine. Some are discovered only after an unexplained episode of pancreatitis. The most sensitive examination for pancreatic tumors is endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), which can detect tumors smaller th...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Variations: Concerns and Next Steps After Diagnosis
Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Mucus in stool? Hello Doctor, previously I had bowel movements approximately every two days, but it changed to once or twice a day. I visited the clinic over a month ago and underwent a fecal occult blood test, which diagnosed me with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). All items in ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: To diagnose irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it is essential to first rule out any structural abnormalities of the colon. If relevant tests, such as colonoscopy and stool examinations, have already been performed, a diagnosis can then be made. If it is indeed IBS, managemen...[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Dark Red Streaks in Stool: Should You Worry?
The stool appears to have blood in it? Hello doctor, I recently observed that there are several dark red spots in my stool, and when I touch them with toilet paper, they break apart... They look somewhat like blood clots attached to the stool. They are thin and somewhat red. Coul...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms, the bleeding points are located near the anus or rectum, and hemorrhoids are certainly the most likely cause. If the bleeding persists, please seek medical attention from a colorectal surgeon. Wishing you safety and health. Dr. Chen Qifeng, Gastroent...[Read More] Understanding Dark Red Streaks in Stool: Should You Worry?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Consider a Colonoscopy
Gastrointestinal issues Hello, doctor. I have a few questions to ask you. Recently, I went to the hospital due to abdominal pain and underwent an endoscopy, blood tests, and a fecal occult blood test. The results showed that I have gastritis after the endoscopy, my blood tests we...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Fecal occult blood primarily tests for the presence of blood in the stool and is not directly related to inflammation. If there are changes in bowel habits, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for evaluation. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-F...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Consider a Colonoscopy
Understanding Abnormal Health Check Results: Blood in Stool and Enlarged Spleen
Questions Regarding Health Checkup Results Hello Doctor, I participated in the company employee health check and the result of the fecal occult blood test (quantitative method) was 50 ng/ml, which is significantly higher than the reference value of 12 ng/ml. I have a habit of tak...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: 1. Lycopene should not cause a positive fecal occult blood test. 2. A positive fecal occult blood test can occur due to any bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus. 3. The likelihood of a false positive for splenomegaly in abdominal ultrasound is ...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Health Check Results: Blood in Stool and Enlarged Spleen
Persistent Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Seeking Non-Radiation Diagnostic Options
A mass in the right lower abdomen with dull pain during the urge to defecate and urinate? Hello Doctor, my question is about a mass in my lower right abdomen (located about 6-7 cm to the right of my navel and 5-6 cm downwards). I experience dull pain when I have the urge to defec...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Based on the description, I personally believe the key point lies in the CT scan report. If the mass is located in the muscle layer, it is not an intra-abdominal issue. Therefore, it is necessary to confirm: 1. Is there really a mass? 2. Is the mass caused by inflammation?...[Read More] Persistent Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Seeking Non-Radiation Diagnostic Options