Understanding Flat and Wide Stools: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Flat and wide stools? Hello Doctor: Since I had a colonoscopy last September and had three polyps (which were treated), my stools have been soft and formed, but they are flat and wide. I also had a fecal occult blood test that came back normal. I am very concerned that my stools ...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello! Based on your description: the stool is flat, wide, and thick with a clay color, and it is soft and formed, so there should be no excessive concern. However, if you have any doubts, it is recommended to consult a physician at an outpatient clinic. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Flat and Wide Stools: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: A Case Study on Thyroid and Digestive Health
Gastrointestinal issues The young woman has been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and has been taking medication for over a month. The doctor mentioned that her condition is well-controlled, with her hyperthyroid index dropping from 6.0% to over 1.0%. However, she switched medicati...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
It is recommended to manage hyperthyroidism effectively. Thyroid function can also affect gastrointestinal function, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. Abdominal pain, nausea, and abnormal stools may indicate gastroenteritis. During gastroente...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: A Case Study on Thyroid and Digestive Health
Concerns After Eating Undercooked Pork Dumplings: Should You Test for Parasites?
Eating raw pork dumplings? Hello, doctor. A little over a month ago, I experienced stomach pain and bloating. Thinking I should eat healthier, I went to a dumpling shop and ended up eating three and a half undercooked dumplings, where only the outer edge was cooked and the inside...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Eating raw pork dumplings raises concerns about parasitic infections. If symptoms occur, further testing such as blood tests or stool examinations can be conducted. Wishing you good health![Read More] Concerns After Eating Undercooked Pork Dumplings: Should You Test for Parasites?
Understanding Digestive Issues: Is Diarrhea Normal After Constipation Medication?
Intestinal issues? Hello, Doctor. Is it normal to experience diarrhea after taking a laxative (Clear Laxative Sugar-coated Tablets)? I visited a colorectal specialist two days ago, and after a digital rectal examination, the doctor found that I was constipated and prescribed me a...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Strong laxatives can cause painful contractions of the vaginal canal or even diarrhea; it may be advisable to reduce the dosage or switch medications.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Is Diarrhea Normal After Constipation Medication?
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Abdominal bloating and pain? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing abdominal bloating and pain for nearly two months. Eating liquid foods causes more pain than solid foods, and lying down increases the pain; I have to sit up and bend my body to alleviate it. My bowel habits have...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The causes of abdominal bloating and pain may include indigestion, gastrointestinal issues, and liver, gallbladder, or pancreatic diseases. It is advisable to pay attention to dietary habits, avoiding rapid eating and greasy foods. Risk factors for pancreatitis include gal...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Upper Right Abdominal Discomfort: Could It Be Cancer?
Discomfort in the right upper abdomen - cancer concerns? In August 2022, I started experiencing nausea, abdominal bloating, discomfort in the upper right abdomen, and a tingling sensation. I subsequently went to the hospital for an endoscopy, which revealed gastroesophageal reflu...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is unlikely to be related to cancer; it may just be a digestive issue. A fecal occult blood test can be performed.[Read More] Upper Right Abdominal Discomfort: Could It Be Cancer?
Can Cold Symptoms and Medication Cause Elevated Liver Enzymes?
Is it possible for a cold and medication to cause an elevation in liver enzymes? Hello Doctor, I had a blood test at the hospital the day before yesterday and found that the following liver-related indices were elevated: SGOT: 20 (reference range 5-34), DGOT: 39 (reference range ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If GOT/GPT levels are within the normal range, there is no need to worry too much. Elevated ALP levels may indicate conditions such as biliary obstruction or bone disorders. Additionally, normal occurrences include pregnancy and adolescence. You may consider following up w...[Read More] Can Cold Symptoms and Medication Cause Elevated Liver Enzymes?
Why Did My Liver Tumor Shrink? Understanding Changes in Liver Health
Why do liver tumors shrink? In early November 2022, a company health check revealed that I have mild fatty liver. In mid-November 2022, a hospital examination found a liver tumor measuring 1.5 x 1.0 cm (hypoechoic). The doctor immediately arranged for an abdominal MRI (with contr...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, patients with chronic hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and cirrhosis are at high risk for liver cancer and require regular monitoring. If there is a suspected liver tumor on abdominal ultrasound, further confirmation should be done through computed tomography (CT), magnetic reson...[Read More] Why Did My Liver Tumor Shrink? Understanding Changes in Liver Health
Are Elevated Liver Enzymes Linked to Cold and Medication Use?
Could the elevation of these liver enzymes be related to a cold and the use of medications? Hello Doctor, I had a blood test at the hospital yesterday and found that the following liver-related indices were elevated: SGOT: 20 (reference range 5-34), DGOT: 39 (reference range 5-40...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic for further confirmation.[Read More] Are Elevated Liver Enzymes Linked to Cold and Medication Use?
Understanding Bowel Noises and Blood in Stool: When to Seek Help
Borborygmi and rectal bleeding issues? I usually go to bed around 1 to 2 AM and wake up between 8 and 9 AM. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I have dinner around 9 PM due to work, but I eat normally at other times. However, I don't often have breakfast because of my classes. Since...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Ms. M: Due to your family history and the presence of blood in your stool, it is recommended that you schedule a colonoscopy for further evaluation. This would be the best course of action. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Noises and Blood in Stool: When to Seek Help
Understanding Blood in Nasal Mucus: Is It Related to Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B? I have been experiencing bloody nasal discharge for a year, and my throat often hurts. Could this be due to my frequent X-rays or a liver issue? I had two CT scans and over 50 X-rays two years ago. I often feel weak, have fever, and my blood pressure today was 180. I...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please return for a follow-up with the gastroenterology department to monitor hepatitis B (at least every 6 months) and discuss medication for symptoms. A small amount of acetaminophen (such as 3 times a day for 3-5 days) is not harmful.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Nasal Mucus: Is It Related to Hepatitis B?
Red Specks in Stool: Should You Be Concerned About Your Gut Health?
There are red solid particles in the stool? Hello doctor, recently my bowel movements have been yellowish-brown and streaky, but today there was a thin red chunk mixed in with the stool. It doesn't look much like blood; it seems more like residue (I'm not quite sure). I...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further observation is possible; if there are concerns, a stool occult blood test can be performed.[Read More] Red Specks in Stool: Should You Be Concerned About Your Gut Health?
Understanding Abdominal Noises and Blood in Stool: When to Seek Help
Supine position with bowel sounds + blood in stool? Hello, since early November, whenever I lie down, I experience loud gurgling sounds (similar to croaking), which I have never experienced before. I have tried taking probiotics and yogurt, but there has been no improvement. I ha...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Borborygmi is simply the sound of intestinal peristalsis being more pronounced, which can be more easily stimulated by fruits and vegetables; it is harmless. Additionally, for bleeding, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist to confirm whether it is due to hemorrhoids or...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Noises and Blood in Stool: When to Seek Help
Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Advice
Bowel issues Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing frequent issues with bowel movements lately. I often feel like I haven't completely emptied my bowels after a bowel movement, which leads me to go multiple times a day. Each time, I spend a long time in the bathroom, and th...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Fecal occult blood testing can be performed, or alternatively, increase the intake of fruits and vegetables, maintain hydration, and engage in regular exercise for further observation.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Advice
Severe Back Pain: Understanding Gastrointestinal and Liver Issues
Severe back pain? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing pain in my back and stomach for over a week now. Recently, I have been unable to bend my back due to severe pain, and it hurts even when I'm not moving. I'm not sure what is wrong. I have already seen a gastroente...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello! Sudden or chronic back pain is a warning sign. It's important to pay attention to the exact location of the pain, such as the upper back, lower back, or elsewhere, and to note if there are any accompanying symptoms. It is advisable to visit the appropriate specialty c...[Read More] Severe Back Pain: Understanding Gastrointestinal and Liver Issues
Understanding Mild Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Mild discomfort in the lower abdomen? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about something. About four days ago, after eating, I had a normal bowel movement. About an hour later, I suddenly experienced abdominal pain and diarrhea. Then, I started to feel a slight dull pain arou...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello! It is advisable to continue monitoring to see if the changes are due to dietary habits. If there are frequent changes in bowel movement frequency or stool consistency within the past three months, a medical evaluation should be sought. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Mild Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Managing Gastritis and GERD: Tips for Relief After Meals
Gastritis with gastroesophageal reflux, postprandial discomfort and pain? Hello Doctor, I am a 22-year-old male. In the morning on an empty stomach, I experience stomach growling. After breakfast, lunch, and dinner, I have a feeling of heaviness and discomfort, especially after l...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It can be discussed with the attending physician that whey protein should be harmless.[Read More] Managing Gastritis and GERD: Tips for Relief After Meals
Understanding Rectal Bleeding During Early Pregnancy: Causes and Concerns
Rectal bleeding I am currently over two months pregnant. Yesterday, when I went to the bathroom, I noticed bright red blood in the toilet, almost like it was sprayed. At first, I felt a pressure in my head, and then when I strained, there was blood on the toilet paper. Today, the...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please visit the colorectal clinic (commonly for bleeding due to internal hemorrhoids or anal fissures).[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding During Early Pregnancy: Causes and Concerns
Does Moderate Fatty Liver Increase the Risk of Liver Cancer?
Can moderate fatty liver lead to liver cancer? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a few questions. I have moderate fatty liver, no hepatitis B or C, and no cirrhosis. I undergo ultrasound and blood tests every three months. My cholesterol level is 205 and triglycerides are 211, w...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Ms. A: 1. I cannot answer this question without seeing the report and images; I recommend consulting your physician. 2. Lipomas can also occur in the liver, but they are relatively rare. 3.4. It would be best to ask your physician for clarification. 5. Fatty liver disease c...[Read More] Does Moderate Fatty Liver Increase the Risk of Liver Cancer?
Understanding Variations in Stool Consistency: When to Seek Help
The stool is mushy at the end? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing issues related to my bowel movements and would like to ask for your advice. I typically have a bowel movement once a day, but the amount can vary. Sometimes, when I sit for a longer period, the amount is great...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is normal for the latter part of the stool to be softer, which may result in softer or thinner stools, and in some cases, it may even appear pasty. If the stool occult blood test is normal, there is no need to worry too much. However, if you are at high risk (for exampl...[Read More] Understanding Variations in Stool Consistency: When to Seek Help