Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Key Concerns for Hepatitis B Patients
Questions related to abdominal ultrasound examination? Hello Doctor, I am a carrier of hepatitis B. Today, during my health check-up, I had an abdominal ultrasound. The doctor indicated that there are some white spots on the liver surface, with one larger spot measuring 0.6 cm. I...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
It is recommended to closely monitor and only perform a biopsy if there is a suspicion of malignancy, as small lesions may not be adequately sampled. Pancreatic and hepatic cysts are generally benign. If they are not too large or causing compression or complications, monitoring i...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Key Concerns for Hepatitis B Patients
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns After Gastrointestinal Issues
I have an unusual feeling in my abdomen, and there is blood in my stool? Hello Doctor: I just had a colonoscopy and gastroscopy in July of this year. The colonoscopy results were normal, except for the presence of hemorrhoids. However, the gastroscopy revealed a gastric ulcer and...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Loose stools and diarrhea with blood in the stool may indicate gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome, or bleeding hemorrhoids. Increased stress from work can lead to higher gastric acid secretion, and poor dietary habits may contribute to acid-related conditions such as gastr...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns After Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Pancreatic Tumors: Diagnosis, Treatment Options, and Risks
Pancreatic tumor Dear Dr. Lin, In July, my husband underwent a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan originally intended to monitor his lungs, but it unexpectedly revealed a pancreatic tumor approximately 3.2 cm in size with low density. We promptly returned to the thoracic s...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
A cyst in the body of the pancreas larger than three centimeters may sometimes be difficult to identify on imaging. An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has been arranged, and it does not communicate with the bile duct. There are no nodules within the tumor, leaning towards a serous cy...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Tumors: Diagnosis, Treatment Options, and Risks
Understanding Abnormal CA19-9 Levels: Next Steps for Patients
Abnormal CA 19-9 levels, inquiry about follow-up consultation methods? Hello Doctor, About three weeks ago, I went to the hospital for a self-paid health checkup. Due to my menstrual period, I first underwent abdominal/pelvic/breast ultrasound, and a week later, I completed blo...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
CA 19-9 cannot be used for diagnosis due to a very high rate of false positives; its interpretation depends on the individual physician's perspective. The principle is that if there are no specific tumors found during health screenings, one can feel reassured. It would be ad...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal CA19-9 Levels: Next Steps for Patients
Managing Internal Hemorrhoids: When to Consider Treatment Options
Internal hemorrhoid bleeding Hello Doctor, I have had hemorrhoids since my school days, but after turning 30, they started to prolapse without bleeding. This year, however, I began to experience bleeding. Earlier this year, I consulted a doctor who prescribed a hemorrhoid ointme...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Internal hemorrhoids will not resolve without active management. If there is frequent bleeding, it is advisable to discuss invasive treatment options with a surgeon, as the general risks are low.[Read More] Managing Internal Hemorrhoids: When to Consider Treatment Options
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Lower abdominal bloating and pain? In the past couple of days, I've been experiencing bloating and pain in my lower abdomen shortly after getting up. I've been passing gas frequently and feel like I can't fully have a bowel movement. Even after going, the bloating ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Most are not cancer; if concerned, you can test for occult blood in the stool.[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Weight Loss and Hair Loss: The Impact of Autonomic Dysfunction
Weight issues, autonomic nervous system disorders, gastrointestinal problems? I have recently been experiencing irregular sleep patterns, often staying up all night and sometimes going over 24 hours without sleep, followed by long sleep sessions of about 12 hours. This situation ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It may be autonomic nervous system dysfunction, which can be managed and monitored for weight changes by a psychosomatic medicine specialist.[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss and Hair Loss: The Impact of Autonomic Dysfunction
Understanding Positive HCV Antibody Results: Key Questions Answered
Hepatitis C testing issues? Hello Doctor: I recently wanted to donate blood, and I was informed by the blood donation center that my hepatitis C antibody (Anti-HCV) test result from a year ago was positive. The blood donation center then conducted a retest, and after a year, the ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Previously infected with hepatitis C, has naturally healed/cleared the hepatitis C virus, currently does not have hepatitis C, only has lifelong (weak) positive antibodies.[Read More] Understanding Positive HCV Antibody Results: Key Questions Answered
Managing Anal Fissures and Hemorrhoids: Your Questions Answered
Anal fissure hemorrhoid suppository Hello Doctor: A few days ago, due to being busy with work in the southern part of the country, I was unable to eat properly, which caused constipation and harder stools. After having a bowel movement, I noticed some blood when wiping. After see...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello, Zhixuan. 1. If your symptoms have improved, you may not need to continue using the medication. The remaining suppositories can be used if needed in the near future. 2. It is normal to experience a feeling of urgency to defecate when using suppositories, and some odor an...[Read More] Managing Anal Fissures and Hemorrhoids: Your Questions Answered
Blood-Streaked Saliva: Is It a Sign of GERD Complications?
Gastroesophageal reflux with blood-tinged saliva? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for a long time. I underwent an upper endoscopy last November, which showed mild grade A reflux. I have been on medication for treatment, but I still e...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
It is recommended to seek medical attention for evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Blood-Streaked Saliva: Is It a Sign of GERD Complications?
Managing Constipation and Urination Issues: A Guide for Patients
Bowel issues Hello, doctor. Since I went to the emergency room at Yadong Hospital on the 13th due to hard and dry stools, the doctor prescribed me a stool softener. After finishing the medication, my condition improved for about two weeks. I have been exercising, walking briskly ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to continue dietary adjustments and medication, and if necessary, to check for occult blood in the stool.[Read More] Managing Constipation and Urination Issues: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Weight Loss and Digestive Health Concerns at 22
Digestive issues Hello Doctor, on August 25th, I weighed 92.8 kg (which was the fourth day of my menstrual period). On August 28th, my weight was 91.5 kg (the seventh day of my menstrual period), and today, August 29th, my weight is 90.9 kg. I have recently been controlling my di...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Sustainable observation, the correct way to lose weight.[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss and Digestive Health Concerns at 22
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?
Understanding Red Jelly-Like Stool: Causes and Concerns
Bowel-related issues? Doctor, I am Chien, who asked you a question a few days ago. My last inquiry was about suddenly passing a significant amount of red jelly-like substance in the restroom. I am a bit anxious and unsure of what to do... The red material did not disperse, but I ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can go to the outpatient clinic to have your stool examined.[Read More] Understanding Red Jelly-Like Stool: Causes and Concerns
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
Blood in Stool: Should You Worry and When to Get a Colonoscopy?
Blood in the stool? Today, I noticed a small blood spot about 0.2 centimeters in size in my stool, and there were also blood streaks about the size of a grain of sand in the intestinal fluid. I would like to know what this condition might indicate. Do I need to undergo another co...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Colonoscopy is generally recommended every 3 to 5 years. You can consult your physician regarding the frequency of follow-up examinations. It is advisable to monitor if straining during bowel movements causes harder stools to scrape against the anal canal, which may lead to minor...[Read More] Blood in Stool: Should You Worry and When to Get a Colonoscopy?