Understanding Lipase and Amylase Levels in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Health
Lipase and Amylase Dear Deputy Director: Last August, my child had acute gastroenteritis, and during the emergency visit, the lipase and amylase levels were elevated. After the follow-up visit, an abdominal ultrasound was performed at the end of August, which showed normal resu...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If a blood test for lipase and amylase levels is to be conducted, it is generally recommended to fast for 8 hours prior to the blood draw to avoid food interference with the results. Additionally, if the child does not exhibit symptoms of pancreatitis, has a normal abdominal ultr...[Read More] Understanding Lipase and Amylase Levels in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test After Colonoscopy
Fecal occult blood Hello doctor, I underwent a complete colonoscopy on March 1st of this year, which showed no polyps or tumors. However, on March 15th, a stool test indicated a positive result for occult blood. Is this considered normal, or should I undergo another colonoscopy?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please discuss with the attending physician whether a repeat stool test is necessary or if an examination of the stomach/small intestine is required.[Read More] Understanding Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test After Colonoscopy
Understanding Gastroenteritis: Symptoms, Recovery Time, and Dehydration Risks
Some issues related to gastroenteritis? Hello, doctor. Let me describe my condition: Two days ago, I suddenly felt nauseous and had diarrhea (watery stools) after waking up. I only experienced dry heaving once (I felt something rising but couldn't vomit, and I had a sensatio...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Symptoms will gradually improve in about 3-5 days. If there is no improvement and instead you feel weaker, have a fever, abdominal pain, or notice blood in your stool, you should seek medical attention promptly. Dehydration can lead to headaches or low blood pressure. Chan...[Read More] Understanding Gastroenteritis: Symptoms, Recovery Time, and Dehydration Risks
Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks: Low Viral Load Explained
Inquiry about Hepatitis B Transmission (Continued) Hello, I am the questioner of Q&A <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/194207">#194207</a> (regarding HBV DNA viral load, with a test result of <10). Thank you for your response. In your previous reply...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
High viral load is required for transmission through blood or bodily fluids (especially if the other person has not been vaccinated). When medication is taken, the viral load decreases significantly, and the likelihood of transmission is almost negligible.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks: Low Viral Load Explained
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain and Gas: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues
Lower abdominal pain, anal spasms, and bloating in the lower abdomen? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing symptoms of continuous flatulence (without odor) and noticeable bloating in my lower abdomen. Upon waking up in the morning, I feel a sensation of fullness in m...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, the symptoms you described may be caused by gastrointestinal dysfunction. The lower abdominal bloating and flatulence could be due to the accumulation of gas in the gastrointestinal tract. It is recommended that, in addition to maintaining good dietary habits, you should a...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain and Gas: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues
Concerns About Changes in Stool Shape: When to Seek Medical Advice
Concerns about stool that is wide at the front and narrow at the back? I underwent a colonoscopy in 2021, and the doctor mentioned that I have intestinal adhesions, as well as issues with internal hemorrhoids and anal fissures. I often have to exert more effort when using the res...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Based on the situation you described, further evaluation and treatment may be necessary. Here are some considerations: 1. Intestinal adhesions may lead to hard stools, which can further result in issues such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures. It is important to pay attention to d...[Read More] Concerns About Changes in Stool Shape: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Liver Health: Addressing Concerns About Fatty Liver and Tumors
Suspected liver cancer? Hello doctor, my mother has moderate fatty liver and does not have hepatitis B or C. Previously, she had an ultrasound, and the doctor ordered a CT scan, which indicated a suspicion of liver cancer. Blood tests were also conducted, and later the CT scan sh...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Suspicion of liver cancer should be based on preliminary abnormalities, which can be used as a reason to apply for further imaging studies under health insurance. The results confirmed that there is no liver cancer, so there is no need to worry. A splenic hemangioma is benign and...[Read More] Understanding Liver Health: Addressing Concerns About Fatty Liver and Tumors
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?
Identifying and Managing Hemorrhoids: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Identification and Management of Hemorrhoids Hello, doctor. I'm not exactly sure when it started, but after wiping following a bowel movement, I noticed fresh blood on the toilet paper. After researching online, it seems to be hemorrhoids. However, every time I shower, I fee...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely internal hemorrhoid bleeding. You can use ointment, wash and dry the area after bowel movements, avoid prolonged sitting, exercise more, and prevent hard stools.[Read More] Identifying and Managing Hemorrhoids: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Identifying and Managing Hemorrhoids: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Identification and Management of Hemorrhoids Hello, doctor. I'm not quite sure when it started, but after wiping following a bowel movement, I noticed fresh blood on the toilet paper. After researching online, it seems to be hemorrhoids. However, every time I shower, I feel ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely internal hemorrhoid bleeding. You can use ointment, wash and dry the area after bowel movements, avoid prolonged sitting, engage in regular exercise, and prevent hard stools.[Read More] Identifying and Managing Hemorrhoids: Symptoms and Treatment Options
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
Understanding Loose Stools: Food Residue or Blood?
Bowel-related issues? Hello doctor, I am 26 years old. Recently, my stools have been looser, and I often notice food remnants such as black glutinous rice, sesame seeds, and chili skins. Today, I found a red piece in the middle of my stool. When I dabbed it with toilet paper and ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It should not be a blood clot; further observation is needed.[Read More] Understanding Loose Stools: Food Residue or Blood?
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
Understanding Black Specks in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Black stools? Sometimes I notice that my stool appears brown on the outside but has a black line in the middle, and there are black particles in the stool. Is this indicative of blood in the stool or a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding? Is there a connection?
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, the color of stool is related to diet and diseases. If there are changes in bowel habits or stool consistency, along with the appearance of other symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Black Specks in Stool: Causes and Concerns
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?