Understanding Palmar Erythema: Is It a Sign of Liver Issues?
Suspected palmar erythema? For more than a year, I have noticed redness in the palms of my hands, particularly in the hypothenar area. However, my blood tests every three months have been normal, and my abdominal ultrasound has also shown no issues. I am still very concerned and ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is unlikely to be caused by liver disease; you can take a photo with your mobile phone and provide it for the dermatologist's diagnosis if necessary.[Read More] Understanding Palmar Erythema: Is It a Sign of Liver Issues?
Can I Get a Hepatitis B Booster Vaccine? Understanding My Blood Test Results
Implementation of hepatitis B vaccine booster shots? Hello Doctor, here is my blood test report. Since there is a carrier in my household, I no longer have antibodies for Hepatitis B. Can I receive a booster vaccine? Additionally, I would like to ask if my core antibody Anti-HBc ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It should be negative / can be re-administered, but it is necessary to first consult the original physician who ordered the blood draw for clarification.[Read More] Can I Get a Hepatitis B Booster Vaccine? Understanding My Blood Test Results
Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Causes and Concerns
A 20-year-old with significantly elevated CA 19-9 levels? Recently, I visited a gastroenterologist due to unexplained pain in my right abdomen. After three days, my previously distended abdomen suddenly deflated (suspected seroma). Then, over the next five days, I lost one kilogr...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Follow up with a gastroenterologist for examination; the indicators are for reference only.[Read More] Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Fatty Liver: Severity, Management, and Treatment Options
Fatty liver disease issues? Hello, I would like to ask about my blood test results. My GOT levels are 60 and 123. Would you consider this to be mild or moderate? How can I improve this? Would increasing exercise and losing weight help return my levels to normal? Would taking Schi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
First, exclude hepatitis B and C. Reduce caloric intake by 10%, specifically by decreasing starches/carbohydrates. Increased physical activity is beneficial and can help prevent weight regain. There are no foods that specifically aid in weight loss or fatty liver; only a low-calo...[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver: Severity, Management, and Treatment Options
Understanding Your Blood Test Results for Hepatitis B Infection
Hepatitis B blood test evaluation? Hello doctor, here are my blood test results. Am I infected with hepatitis B? I have had unprotected sexual intercourse in the past; should my spouse get tested? Report details: Anti-HBs Negative, Anti-HBc (col): 2.39, HBs Ag (col): 0.46.
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is no hepatitis B. If concerned about infection, the partner can also voluntarily get tested for hepatitis B and C at their own expense.[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results for Hepatitis B Infection
Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Key Insights for Liver Health
Inquiry about abdominal ultrasound results? Hello Doctor, I recently had some tests done, including an ultrasound. The doctor had prescribed medication for my condition. Are there any important points to note regarding the ultrasound results? Thank you. Blood test results: GOT...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A 0.5 cm lymph node located outside the liver in the abdominal cavity can generally be monitored with follow-up.[Read More] Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Key Insights for Liver Health
Understanding Digestive Issues: Bloating, Discomfort, and Possible Causes
Abdominal bloating, gastric discomfort, and acid reflux? I have been experiencing gastrointestinal issues for the past few years, particularly around July each year. Due to exam preparations, my sleep schedule has been very irregular over the last two years, often staying up late...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely still a gastrointestinal motility issue. It is recommended to adjust lifestyle and routines, supplemented with medication, and then continue to monitor the situation.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Bloating, Discomfort, and Possible Causes
Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks and Prevention Strategies
Hepatitis B-related issues Hello, Doctor. I recently learned that a family member is a carrier of hepatitis B. I haven't had a health check-up in over a year and I'm not aware of the viral load or other conditions; I only know that I have fatty liver. However, I do not ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Hepatitis B is transmitted through the entry of blood or bodily fluids containing the Hepatitis B virus into the body via the skin or mucous membranes. Transmission routes include blood transfusions, injections, hemodialysis, acupuncture, tattoos, eyebrow tattoos, ear pier...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks and Prevention Strategies
Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Worry About Cancer Symptoms
Suspected gastrointestinal cancer? Hello Doctor, since July 20, I have been experiencing abdominal bloating, intermittent abdominal pain, hip pain, lower back pain, gastroesophageal reflux, nausea, loss of appetite, and a weight loss of 3-4 kg (originally 48 kg). My bowel habits ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The symptoms reported are not necessarily indicative of gastrointestinal cancer, so there is no need to worry. If necessary, a stool occult blood test can be done first (which provides quicker results), but a gastrointestinal endoscopy is more accurate.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Worry About Cancer Symptoms
Concerns About Bowel Issues: Are Your Symptoms a Sign of Cancer?
Concerns related to bowel movements, issues with defecation, and gastrointestinal problems have raised worries about the possibility of cancer? Hello Doctor, I previously asked you a question (link: <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/199164">#199164</a>) an...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is necessary to discuss further with the physician to make adjustments to the medication and diet. A stool occult blood test can also be added.[Read More] Concerns About Bowel Issues: Are Your Symptoms a Sign of Cancer?
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Nausea: When to Resume Normal Eating
Nausea, stomach pain? Hello, Doctor: On Wednesday afternoon, after drinking a cup of kumquat lemon beverage, I started to feel a dull pain in my lower abdomen but did not have a bowel movement. That evening, I accidentally ate some pork that was sticky with lard (cold), and then ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please seek medical attention for blood tests and/or ultrasound examination. Maintain a light diet, low in oil, until symptoms improve.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Nausea: When to Resume Normal Eating
Do Babies with Low Hepatitis B Antibodies Need a Booster Shot?
Is it necessary to receive a booster shot for hepatitis B antibodies? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my situation. I am a carrier of hepatitis B, with HBsAg positive and HBeAg negative. My baby is currently 1 year and 1 month old. At birth, he received immunoglobulin an...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is limited research on catch-up vaccinations for infants and young children, and no consensus exists. The general principle is that catch-up vaccinations can be administered, and there have been no reports of adverse effects.[Read More] Do Babies with Low Hepatitis B Antibodies Need a Booster Shot?
Can Sharing Toothpaste with a Hepatitis B Patient Lead to Infection?
Can sharing toothpaste with a hepatitis B patient lead to transmission? Is it possible to contract hepatitis B by sharing toothpaste with a hepatitis B patient? If so, what is the likelihood of infection? How long after receiving the vaccine can I check for the presence of antibo...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The chances are still low, but it is recommended to use personal toothpaste. A booster dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine should be administered (since it was given at birth), and blood tests can be conducted after one month to assess the effectiveness.[Read More] Can Sharing Toothpaste with a Hepatitis B Patient Lead to Infection?
Understanding Hepatitis B Infection Risks and Vaccination Options
Risk of Hepatitis B Infection and Vaccination Hello, doctor. Not long ago, I visited a clinic to check my blood sugar using a glucometer, but now I'm a bit anxious about the possibility of infection if the clinic did not properly change the needle. I previously had a blood t...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Miss Lin: Currently, medical institutions should be using disposable needles, so you can try it out and then get tested. If you want to check for hepatitis B infection, it is recommended to follow up as a carrier in the outpatient clinic. Director Cai Jin-ji, Department of ...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Infection Risks and Vaccination Options
Understanding Hepatitis B Risks and Vaccination After Needle Exposure
Risk of Hepatitis B Infection Hello, doctor. My relative is a patient with hepatitis B and diabetes. While assisting with blood sugar testing, I accidentally got slightly pricked by a needle. However, my previous health check report indicated that I no longer have antibodies. I w...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
The symptoms of infection are related to age, individual health conditions, and the degree of liver inflammation. It is recommended to seek medical evaluation and undergo blood tests; the doctor will provide a more specific assessment. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Risks and Vaccination After Needle Exposure
Understanding Increased Bowel Movements: Concerns and Insights
Increased frequency of bowel movements? Hello Dr. Chen, In the past, I had a bowel movement about 1 to 2 times a day. Recently, due to elevated blood sugar and cholesterol levels, I have been taking medications to lower them. Additionally, I have started to eat more fruits regul...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A fecal occult blood test can be performed first. The follow-up interval depends on individual circumstances and the physician's workload, typically ranging from 1 to 3 years. The precursors to colorectal cancer often take more than 5 to 10 years to develop.[Read More] Understanding Increased Bowel Movements: Concerns and Insights
Understanding Black Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Black stool issue Hello Doctor: Since last year, I have noticed black mucus in my stool that is not mixed with the feces. However, the explanations I found online only mention "entirely black stools" or "blood separated from stool," and there is no explanation...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist, who will determine whether to arrange for a fecal occult blood test or further colonoscopy. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Black Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Understanding Chronic Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
Persistent discomfort below the navel? Hello Doctor: I have gastroesophageal reflux disease and have been under treatment with medication for over a year, primarily using traditional Chinese medicine. My TCM physician mentioned that I have signs of gastritis, as I experience shar...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If the fecal occult blood test is normal, it is still possible to have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Medical consultation and adjustments to lifestyle and dietary habits may be necessary.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccine Boosters: Key Questions Answered
Questions about booster shots for Hepatitis B vaccine? Hello, Doctor: My mother is a carrier of hepatitis B. My two daughters received immunoglobulin within 24 hours of birth. My younger daughter received her first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine on June 2, 2022, at the hospital....
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The principle is to respect the recommendations of pediatricians.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccine Boosters: Key Questions Answered
Could I Have a Parasite? Understanding Gastrointestinal Symptoms
I suspect that I have a parasitic infection? Hello, I had sashimi for lunch on June 27th, and two days later, I started experiencing intermittent abdominal cramps. My stools have been mushy, and there is a sticky residue when I wipe. The feces have a foul, sewage-like odor. Since...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Parasitic infections are often not acute gastroenteritis. However, if there are concerns, it is advisable to seek medical attention for a stool examination for parasites.[Read More] Could I Have a Parasite? Understanding Gastrointestinal Symptoms