Understanding Treatment Options for Advanced Colon Cancer with Metastasis
Questions about colorectal cancer treatment? As a child seeking advice for my father: My father, in his seventies, was diagnosed with colon cancer that had metastasized to the liver. After surgically removing the tumor at the junction of the colon and rectum, he began chemotherap...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Consult an oncologist. You can inquire about the cost and effectiveness of immunotherapy if chemotherapy has failed.[Read More] Understanding Treatment Options for Advanced Colon Cancer with Metastasis
Understanding Mucus in Stool: Is It Normal or a Sign of IBS?
Discomfort in the lower right abdomen? Recently, I've been feeling discomfort in my lower right abdomen, but there is no pain. I went to the hospital for an examination, and the doctor ordered a routine stool test and a stool occult blood test (EIA). Today, I received the re...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Mucus is normal and does not require concern.[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool: Is It Normal or a Sign of IBS?
Understanding Black Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention
Regarding the issue of melena? Hello, doctor. Last Wednesday, I had two bowel movements. One was at 10 AM, and it was a normal brown color. The other was between 2 and 3 PM, and it was black. I don't recall eating anything that would cause my stool to turn black. Since then,...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If there is bleeding, it is likely to occur continuously and not just once. If you notice this, please save a sample and seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you are still concerned, you can visit a gastroenterologist to check for occult blood in the stool. Chang...[Read More] Understanding Black Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Blood-Streaked Mucus in Stool: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help
Slightly bloody mucus in the stool? Doctor, I recently noticed some slight blood streaks on my stool, so I bought hemorrhoid suppositories and used them for a while. After that, there were no obvious blood streaks on my stool, but during the use of the suppositories, I consistent...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further observation may be warranted.[Read More] Understanding Blood-Streaked Mucus in Stool: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help
Understanding Blood in Stool After Gastroenteritis: When to Seek Help
Gastroenteritis with blood in the stool? Hello Doctor, a few days ago I started experiencing diarrhea and fever. I had diarrhea about 5-7 times a day and my fever reached around 39.1 degrees Celsius. I went to a clinic, and the doctor diagnosed me with a gastroenteritis and presc...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further observation is recommended. Maintain cleanliness and dryness after bowel movements. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool After Gastroenteritis: When to Seek Help
Understanding Black Stool: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
It's unclear whether it is melena? Hello, Doctor. This afternoon, I had a bowel movement and noticed that the stool was black, with some yellow pieces mixed in. I would like to ask you the following questions: 1. Could the presence of yellow stool mixed with black stool ind...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. It is recommended to collect a stool sample for occult blood testing next time you notice anything unusual. 2. If there is significant upper gastrointestinal bleeding, black tarry stools may appear within an hour. 3. Most of what is observed is food residue. 4. It could...[Read More] Understanding Black Stool: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Pain Below the Rib Cage: Causes and Next Steps
Pain in the depression beneath the middle ribs? Hello Doctor, I previously experienced abdominal pain and consulted a physician. Yesterday, I underwent a colonoscopy and gastroscopy, and they said everything looked fine, except for mild inflammation in the intestines. My blood te...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Gastric spasms, esophageal reflux that does not cause esophagitis, excessive gastric acid, or abdominal wall muscle pain could all be possibilities. You may continue to consult a gastroenterologist, discuss your symptoms with the physician, who should arrange appropriat...[Read More] Understanding Pain Below the Rib Cage: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Stool Color Changes: What Do They Mean for Your Health?
Bowel issues Hello Doctor: Recently, my stool often appears to have two colors visible to the naked eye (without a distinct boundary), one is the usual brown and the other is a reddish-brown. Could this be blood in the stool? How can I determine if it is mucus in the stool? Is it...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Anal fissure presents with bright red blood. No other symptoms are noted; observation can continue.[Read More] Understanding Stool Color Changes: What Do They Mean for Your Health?
Understanding Bowel Color Changes: What Red-Brown Stools Mean
Bowel issues Hello Doctor: Recently, my stool often appears to have two colors visible to the naked eye (without a clear boundary), one being the usual brown and the other a reddish-brown. Could this be blood in the stool? How can I determine if it is mucus in the stool? Is it po...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Anal fissure presents with bright red blood. No other symptoms are present, and observation can continue.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Color Changes: What Red-Brown Stools Mean
Concerns About Hepatitis B Transmission in Public Spaces
Inquiry about Hepatitis B transmission? Hello, I would like to ask you a few questions. 1. Yesterday, when I was at a government office, I was unsure if the eczema wound on my foot was bleeding or oozing bodily fluids, and I was uncertain if my pants had come into contact with ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Generally, it is not contagious to others, so please rest assured.[Read More] Concerns About Hepatitis B Transmission in Public Spaces
Understanding Hiccups: The Connection Between Autonomic Nervous System and Gastrointestinal Issues
Autonomic nervous system dysfunction, diaphragmatic issues? At the end of January this year, I experienced bloating and persistent burping, feeling as if gas was stuck in my throat. Every time I attempted to swallow, I would burp every 3-5 seconds, which was a constant occurrence...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please continue the discussion with a gastroenterologist/psychiatrist.[Read More] Understanding Hiccups: The Connection Between Autonomic Nervous System and Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Elevated Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Solutions
Elevated bilirubin levels? Hello Doctor: I would like to inquire about the issue of elevated bilirubin levels in my recent two health check-ups, with the most recent results showing a significant increase compared to the previous one. In 2020, my total bilirubin was 1.51 mg/dL, d...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, elevated direct bilirubin along with other liver function indices may indicate liver or biliary tract-related diseases. Your abdominal ultrasound showed no abnormalities, other liver indices are normal, urine bilirubin is negative, and there are no obvious liver or biliary...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Deep Orange Sediments in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Large sedimentation? Hello, doctor. In the past few months, I have noticed deep orange sediment in my stool. I'm not sure if it's blood, but the color of the stool itself appears normal. Thank you for your help.
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The sediment and color of stool may be related to recent food intake or medications. Deep orange sediment could indicate undigested dietary fiber; check if you have consumed yellow or red vegetables and fruits. If you are concerned about abnormal stool with blood, a stool ...[Read More] Understanding Deep Orange Sediments in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Discovering Blood in Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice
Blood in the stool? A few days ago, I noticed that my stool had red, chili-like pieces in it. When I used toilet paper to poke at it, I found that it was blood clots and streaks of blood. Although the stool was formed, it was extremely loose and flat (about the size of my thumb o...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If it occurs again, you can consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist. There's no need to worry too much; the likelihood is mostly due to hemorrhoidal bleeding, with a smaller portion being anal fissures, polyps, or tumors. Changhua Hospital cares about ...[Read More] Discovering Blood in Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Stool Consistency After Softener Use in Seniors
The stool consistency after taking a laxative? Dear Doctor, my elder family member has cardiovascular disease and often suffers from constipation. The doctor prescribed a stool softener, but sometimes it is not effective, and they also use enemas on their own. Is it true that pat...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The inability to form stools may be due to the use of laxatives that soften the stool. If you are concerned about chronic constipation, you may want to check for occult blood in the stool and arrange for a colonoscopy if necessary for a detailed examination. Changhua Hospi...[Read More] Understanding Stool Consistency After Softener Use in Seniors
Understanding Thin Stools: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer?
Stool becomes thin? I have recently noticed that my stools are very thin. I read online that this could be a sign of colon cancer. Sometimes there is mucus, but there is no blood in my stool, and my abdomen feels a bit uncomfortable. Should I consider getting a colonoscopy?
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Given your age, the risk of colorectal cancer is low. It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet and include fruits and vegetables. If you have further questions, you may consult a gastroenterologist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Thin Stools: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor: For the past three days, I have frequently felt the urge to have a bowel movement but have only been able to pass clear mucus or gas. Sometimes I do have a bowel movement, but it feels incomplete. I have a history of chronic constipation, and...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It seems to be a case of constipation. I recommend developing a habit of daily bowel movements and ensuring adequate intake of fluids and fruits and vegetables. If you continue to notice blood in your stool, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for appropriate e...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Red Stains on Toilet Paper: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Inquiry Consultation Hello Dr. Tsai, Today, after finishing my bowel movement, I noticed a small red mark on the toilet paper when I wiped. I had eaten a small amount of cherry tomatoes a couple of days ago. I have stage II hemorrhoids (the internal hemorrhoids occasionally prot...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. There is a high possibility of undigested tomato (skin) residue. 2. Next time you see it, you can pick it out, touch it with gloves, and add water to see if it disperses; if it is blood, it will disperse. Generally, if it is blood, it will also automatically disperse in...[Read More] Understanding Red Stains on Toilet Paper: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Fish Bone Ingestion and Its Impact on Bowel Health
Fishbone and bowel issues? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with COVID-19 and was in isolation from June 17 to 24. On the evening of June 22, while eating mackerel, I swallowed a fish bone (approximately 1 cm long). At that moment, I felt a slight prick but did not have a sensation ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If convenient, a fecal occult blood test can also be performed.[Read More] Fish Bone Ingestion and Its Impact on Bowel Health
Understanding Bowel Issues: When to Seek Help for Digestive Health
Bowel-related issues? I used to have pellet-like stools, and I have tried taking probiotics, which sometimes help me have a bowel movement. My lower abdomen often feels bloated and sometimes painful, but the discomfort usually goes away after I have a bowel movement. I haven'...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: You are experiencing bowel movements that are hard and pellet-like, along with bloating and pain despite taking probiotics. The symptoms improve after defecation, but you have noticed dark stools or blood, which raises concerns about colorectal cancer. You are hesitant to ...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: When to Seek Help for Digestive Health