Understanding Elevated Bilirubin and Cholesterol Levels: Next Steps for Diagnosis
Elevated levels of total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, and total cholesterol? Hello, doctor. I recently completed a health check-up, and the results that exceeded the normal range include total bilirubin at 2.88, direct bilirubin at 0.57, total cholesterol at 246, and urine showin...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Abnormal values (with normal ultrasound) are likely due to individual constitution and do not pose a long-term health risk; monitoring is sufficient. Cholesterol can be managed through diet and medication. Pain management can be addressed by consulting a pain specialist or a fami...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Bilirubin and Cholesterol Levels: Next Steps for Diagnosis
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Gas: Causes and When to Seek Help
Left lower abdominal gas? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about a recent issue I've been experiencing. For some time now, I've been feeling gas in my lower left abdomen, sometimes accompanied by sounds or bowel sounds. I can clearly feel gas passing through the intest...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Normal flatulence is expected; a negative stool test allows for monitoring of symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Gas: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Advice
Bowel habit issues? Hello, doctor. I was studying in Taipei for a while, and during that time, I would go to the bathroom about every 2-3 days, with bowel movements mostly normal, ranging from type 3 to type 5 on the Bristol Stool Chart. There was only one instance of occasional ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, chew food thoroughly, take a walk after meals, and then observe.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Recurrent hematochezia? Two weeks ago, I started experiencing blood in my stool, and there was blood on the toilet paper when I wiped. I went to the hospital for an examination, and after the doctor performed a digital rectal exam, he said there was no bleeding from the rectum an...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr. VC, please complete the colonoscopy to confirm that there are no tumors or other bleeding phenomena. The majority of bleeding causes are still internal hemorrhoids or anal fissures.[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Can You Take Cialis with Hepatitis B and Normal Liver Function?
Can a person with hepatitis B take Cialis? If liver function is normal, is it safe to take Cialis 5mg, or is it not recommended?
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Mr. Hsiao-Hsiang: Cialis is primarily metabolized by the liver. The condition of hepatitis B and the liver should be assessed through blood tests and ultrasound. Normal liver enzyme levels do not necessarily indicate that there are no issues. It is recommended to first conf...[Read More] Can You Take Cialis with Hepatitis B and Normal Liver Function?
Concerns for Hepatitis B Carriers: Creatinine Levels and Diet
Concerns about creatinine levels and diet in hepatitis B carriers? Hello Doctor, I am a carrier of hepatitis B and currently taking the antiviral medication Hepatitis B Stable. I have regular follow-up appointments for check-ups. This time, my blood test report shows a creatinine...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. Consultation with a nephrologist may be necessary for evaluation and dosage adjustment. 2. Pain medications may have an impact; consider discontinuing or switching to acetaminophen. 3. A generally normal and balanced diet is sufficient.[Read More] Concerns for Hepatitis B Carriers: Creatinine Levels and Diet
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Managing Hunger and Discomfort
Gastrointestinal issues Hello, doctor. I weigh 48 kg and am 170 cm tall. Due to work reasons, my sleep schedule is irregular, but I do have a consistent sleep pattern. About two weeks ago, I started feeling hungry every day. This hunger is tolerable, and eating provides some sens...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, I'm not quite clear on what you mean by feeling hungry in your stomach every day. At what time and under what circumstances does this occur? If you have already sought medical attention, I recommend consulting your attending physician in person for clearer insights an...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Managing Hunger and Discomfort
Understanding Diarrhea and Hemorrhoids: Key Questions Answered
Questions about diarrhea and hemorrhoids? Hello Doctor, I have not experienced diarrhea from January to June of this year, and my bowel movements have been regular with well-formed stools. Occasionally, I had small pellet-like stools, but there was some blood in my stool intermit...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen: If there is no improvement, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist to see if further examination is needed. Director Cai Jin-ji, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Diarrhea and Hemorrhoids: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Bowel Movements and Gas: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
I have been experiencing intestinal peristalsis and issues with flatulence over the past few days? Hello, doctor. I previously asked some questions regarding gastroesophageal reflux, fresh blood on toilet paper after bowel movements, and abdominal tenderness upon palpation. Curre...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Fruits and vegetables/dietary fiber can promote peristalsis/bowel movements/gas expulsion, so please adjust the intake accordingly.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Movements and Gas: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Advice
Bowel and defecation-related issues? Hello doctor, my bowel habits have changed for a while now, and it has been almost six months. I used to have regular bowel movements, but now I either go a long time without a bowel movement or I have difficulty passing stool. The consistency...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there is no bleeding or weight loss, it is likely a change in digestive motility. Pay attention to diet, hydration, and exercise. If concerned, a stool occult blood test can be performed first.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Esophageal Varices and Liver Cirrhosis: Key Insights for Patients
Esophageal varices caused by liver cirrhosis? Hello Doctor, my father is 61 years old and is a carrier of Hepatitis B. He has been taking Baraclude for about 2-3 years and has a history of excessive alcohol consumption. After experiencing his first episode of esophageal variceal ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. It varies by individual, and there are also differences among physicians. 2. Medication and regular endoscopy are recommended, along with minimizing activities that increase abdominal pressure (such as lifting heavy objects). 3. Blood tests and ultrasound are necessary, an...[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Varices and Liver Cirrhosis: Key Insights for Patients
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Insights on Tubular Adenoma and Symptoms
Blood in stool issue? Hello doctor, I noticed pink blood on the toilet paper after having a bowel movement one day, and I do not have hemorrhoids. On that day, I went to the bathroom three times, and there was blood on the stool's surface, but when I opened the stool, there ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Possible causes of bloody stools include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammation, polyps, tumors, and cancer. A colonoscopy revealed a 0.6 cm tubular adenoma in the rectum, which may be the cause of the bloody stools. If there are any other concerns, it is recommended to follow ...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Insights on Tubular Adenoma and Symptoms
Understanding Diarrhea: When to See a Gastroenterologist or Psychologist
Diarrhea issues? Hello Doctor: I used to have normal bowel movements at irregular times every day (normal without any issues). However, starting in June of this year after losing my job, I began experiencing diarrhea (I have had similar diarrhea issues in the past that varied in ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It may still be an irritability syndrome. Management should focus on lifestyle and dietary habits (reducing oil, dairy, and coffee), along with medications for gastrointestinal symptoms and anxiety. Adjustments can be made based on the response.[Read More] Understanding Diarrhea: When to See a Gastroenterologist or Psychologist
Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps
Elevated levels of AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein) test? Hello, I underwent a health check-up on May 25th, where it was found that my alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level was elevated at 19.3. All related liver function tests, including GOT, GPT, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, and albumin, we...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can wait for the CT scan report first, and if necessary, an MRI can be added, or you can follow up with a third blood test.[Read More] Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Insights on Liver and Muscle Health
Blood test values Hello, Doctor. I have a few questions regarding some lab results: 1. My lactate level is 28 (normal range: 4.5-19.8), which is elevated, and my pyruvate level is 0.98 (normal range: 0.18-0.89), which is also slightly high. Additionally, my lactate dehydrogenase...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. This issue has not been studied, I apologize. 2. Low GOT/GPT levels are still considered acceptable; if too thin, one can increase protein intake and engage in strength training to build muscle.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Insights on Liver and Muscle Health
Understanding Stool Tests: What Abnormalities to Look For
Stool testing I'm sorry to bother you, doctor, but today my stool feels very unusual. Could you please check if there is any occult blood or other abnormalities? I'm quite worried and have no choice but to seek your help.
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Mr. Chen: The stool appears to be somewhat loose. To determine if there is occult blood, it is recommended to send a sample for testing for more accurate results. Dr. Cai Jin-ji, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Stool Tests: What Abnormalities to Look For
Understanding Rectal Blockage: Causes and Solutions for Constipation
Feeling of inability to pass stool with a sensation of something being stuck at the anal opening? During bowel movements, there is a sensation of stool needing to be expelled, but it feels like it gets stuck at the anus and retracts when trying to relax. Sometimes, only thin or p...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Mr. A-Hai: It is recommended to visit a colorectal specialist to better determine the issue. Director Cai Jin-ji from the Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology at Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Rectal Blockage: Causes and Solutions for Constipation
Safe Pain Relief Options for Patients with Stomach Ulcers
Medication Issues for Peptic Ulcers Hello, doctor. A family member has a severe gastric ulcer and has previously been hospitalized for bleeding and received a blood transfusion. We suspect that the long-term use of pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication (PBF "NAPTONS.R...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Patients with a history of peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding should be evaluated by a physician to determine the appropriateness of using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for treatment. If the patient has a long-term migraine issue, it is advisable t...[Read More] Safe Pain Relief Options for Patients with Stomach Ulcers
High White Blood Cell Count in Liver Abscess: Discharge Considerations
Elevated white blood cell count in liver abscess? 79 years old! After 21 days of drainage, the white blood cell count is still over 20,000. Is it possible to be discharged under these circumstances? Is there a 21-day limit for insurance-covered hospital beds? How many days should...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
The treatment duration for a liver abscess is related to the size of the abscess, the underlying cause, the type of infecting bacteria, and the patient's response to treatment. Treatment for a liver abscess may include surgery, drainage, and antibiotic therapy, with complete...[Read More] High White Blood Cell Count in Liver Abscess: Discharge Considerations
Understanding Anal Pain and Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
Pain in the buttocks accompanied by slight swelling? My usual bowel habit is to have a bowel movement every two to three days, which has been the case since high school. Although I do eat some vegetables, I don't consume them in large quantities, so my stools are often hard,...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Prolonged sitting or standing can lead to varicose veins and hemorrhoids. It is recommended to eat more fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of water, establish good bowel habits, avoid prolonged sitting or standing, and engage in moderate exercise. If there are concerns about gro...[Read More] Understanding Anal Pain and Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions