Concerns About Bowel Health: Understanding Symptoms and Risks at 29
Bowel issues I have been experiencing hard stools during bowel movements. A few days ago, I noticed a small amount of blood in my stool. Yesterday, I had thin, black stools, and today, while the stools are no longer black, they are still somewhat thin. I'm worried that the t...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, experiencing hard stools with blood, some dark in color, occasionally thin and elongated, and sometimes not smooth raises concerns about colorectal cancer. It is advisable to investigate the cause of blood in the stool. Common causes include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inf...[Read More] Concerns About Bowel Health: Understanding Symptoms and Risks at 29
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Diarrhea: Causes and Solutions
Abdominal pain and diarrhea issues? Hello, Dr. Tsai. Recently, for the past two to three months, I have often gone two to three days without a bowel movement, and when I do go, it’s usually three to four times in one day. The first time is typically normal (though occasionally th...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Please pay attention to your diet, such as avoiding spicy foods and fruits with high water content. It is advisable to consume them in moderation. If there is no improvement, you may consider visiting a gastroenterologist for a stool occult blood test, and if necessary, th...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Diarrhea: Causes and Solutions
Post-Appendectomy Weakness: Understanding Recovery Challenges in Seniors
Post-appendectomy weakness? Hello Doctor, my grandfather recently underwent surgery for appendicitis and stayed in the hospital for over a week due to bloating for observation. He was discharged only after he was able to pass stool and gas successfully. However, after being disch...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is important to encourage your grandfather to get out of bed and be active, even if he lacks the strength to walk. He should at least be able to sit up, as elderly individuals who remain bedridden for more than a week may experience muscle atrophy and weakness. Addition...[Read More] Post-Appendectomy Weakness: Understanding Recovery Challenges in Seniors
Understanding Bright Red Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Rectal bleeding Recently, I have been experiencing rectal bleeding after bowel movements. The blood is bright red, and initially, the first few stools are normal without any blood. Towards the end, there is dripping blood. During bowel movements, there is occasionally a bit of pa...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Medical diagnosis and treatment available.[Read More] Understanding Bright Red Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Weight Loss: Health Concerns and Monitoring Strategies
Weight loss Hello, doctor. I am a 30-year-old woman. Aside from a period during college when I diligently ran and exercised, reducing my weight to around 60 kg, I have generally maintained a weight above 70 kg. Since August of last year, I have been trying to lose weight primaril...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further observation is recommended, and if necessary, an ultrasound and gastroscopy should be performed.[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss: Health Concerns and Monitoring Strategies
Understanding Pancreatic Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Pancreatic issues Hello, Doctor. During my sophomore year of high school, I suddenly felt discomfort in my upper abdomen, which I wasn't sure was stomach pain (it felt more like a pressure pain). I went to the emergency room, where blood tests showed a white blood cell count...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is not pancreatitis; a follow-up visit is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Persistent Acid Reflux: Causes and Solutions
Constantly vomiting bile? Hello doctor, my mother has been taking anticoagulants, steroids, and heart-related medications for many years due to her blood vessels being prone to blockage. Earlier this year, she was hospitalized after a fall and a wound infection. During her hospit...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Gastroenterology outpatient clinic appointment.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Acid Reflux: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Blood in Stool: Should You Worry About Cancer?
Rectal bleeding Hello doctor, I am currently a minor and I have noticed blood in my stool. However, I do not experience pain when using the restroom, but there is blood when I wipe. Could this possibly be colorectal cancer or rectal cancer? I am very scared.
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Most cases involve bleeding from internal hemorrhoids. Minimize prolonged sitting and constipation, and seek medical attention if necessary.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Should You Worry About Cancer?
Understanding Black Spots in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Black specks or particles in stool? I went to the hospital to see a gastroenterologist due to a burning sensation in my stomach. The doctor prescribed me medications, including "Gastric Comfort" and "Smooth Digestion," and mentioned that it was likely just a d...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
If the condition does not improve with medication or if new symptoms arise, it is recommended to return for a follow-up consultation with the original treating physician to discuss whether medication adjustments or further examinations are necessary. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Black Spots in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Bloating and Abdominal Pain: Is It IBS or Something Else?
Gastrointestinal bloating Recently, I have been experiencing bloating and cramping in my abdomen, and I have difficulty passing gas. Although I have a bowel movement every day, I feel a sense of heaviness followed by lightness. I underwent a colonoscopy in April of last year (the...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
If the examination results are normal, there is no need for excessive concern; you can continue to monitor the situation. If you have any doubts, it is recommended to return for a consultation with your primary physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Abdominal Pain: Is It IBS or Something Else?
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Blood in the stool? Hello doctor, I have a question. Today when I went to the bathroom, there was no blood in my stool, but after straining a bit, I noticed fresh red blood on the edge of the stool. The first time I wiped, there was blood, but the second time there was none. I ha...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, it is advisable to investigate the cause of blood in the stool in order to provide appropriate treatment. Common causes of blood in the stool include anal fissures, hemorrhoids, rectal or colon polyps, tumors, or inflammation. It is recommended to increase fiber and fluid ...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Positive Hepatitis B Test Results: Next Steps for Treatment
Positive for Hepatitis B? Hello Doctor: Today I received my health check report and saw that my Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is positive. I reviewed my health check reports from previous years, and they all showed negative results. The report from September 9, 2011, was ne...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, regarding Hepatitis B, a previously negative HBsAg can now be positive, indicating a possible Hepatitis B infection. Blood tests can be performed in an outpatient setting to confirm and assess liver inflammation. Most adults infected with Hepatitis B (about 80%) will impro...[Read More] Understanding Positive Hepatitis B Test Results: Next Steps for Treatment
Understanding Hepatitis C: Transmission and Testing Explained
Hepatitis C Consultation Hello Dr. Chen: Regarding hepatitis C, I would like to ask you the following questions: Q1. Can hepatitis C be transmitted through saliva? Q2. Dr. Chen, in general, testing for hepatitis C infection requires a blood test for "HCV antibodies (Anti...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello: Generally, saliva transmission is rare. If you're concerned, you can opt for a paid test to measure the viral load.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis C: Transmission and Testing Explained
Understanding Hepatitis C Testing: Accuracy and Implications
Follow-up Question #182059 Hepatitis C Consultation Dear Dr. Chen, Thank you very much for your response and guidance regarding the consultation on hepatitis C (#182059). I understand that hepatitis C is generally not transmitted through saliva. I would like to ask Dr. Chen furt...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Ah Xiang: Only in cases of acute infection (such as needle stick injuries) will there be abnormal liver function, but antibodies may take 3-6 months to become positive. During this period, it is necessary to measure the viral load to make a determination.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis C Testing: Accuracy and Implications
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms and Concerns
My stomach feels strange? Doctor, seven days ago I had spicy duck blood with sweet potato for dinner, and the next day I experienced stomach pain and diarrhea. After that, my entire gastrointestinal system felt strange. Pressing around my navel causes pain, but it doesn’t hurt wh...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello: First, control with medication/diet and then observe.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort and Indigestion Issues
Dyspepsia and upper abdominal discomfort? Hello Doctor, thank you for your response a few days ago. I would like to ask a few more questions. I am 27 years old. When standing, I notice that the area under my right rib cage (upper right abdomen) feels more prominent and hard when ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Ultrasound examination of the liver and gallbladder has a high degree of accuracy. If the ultrasound does not reveal any issues, there is generally no need for excessive concern. However, if there are still suspicions of a problem, it is advisable to consult a physician fo...[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort and Indigestion Issues
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
There is some blood in the stool? I noticed some blood on the edges of my stool when I had a bowel movement the day before yesterday. My stools have been quite hard, often getting stuck at the anus and difficult to pass. Additionally, normal stools should be long and smooth, but ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can first check for fecal occult blood.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Gastrointestinal Distress: Causes and Solutions for Bloating
Gastrointestinal bloating issues Around September to October last year, I started having bowel movements three times a day, which were somewhat formed but also breaking apart, and I experienced a sensation of needing to go but not being able to. I visited a nearby small hospital ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Further tests should be conducted to rule out other possibilities, and it is important to patiently cooperate with the physician's treatment and make lifestyle adjustments.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Distress: Causes and Solutions for Bloating
Chronic Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers for Persistent Symptoms
Chronic diarrhea and abdominal pain? Hello, Vice Dean Chen. I am 28 years old, but since October of last year, I have been experiencing frequent loose stools and even diarrhea (with significant abdominal pain). I went to a small hospital where I underwent a CT scan, colonoscopy, ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Only a fecal occult blood test is needed. The symptoms described are likely related to irritable bowel syndrome, and managing anxiety is also necessary for improvement.[Read More] Chronic Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers for Persistent Symptoms
Understanding Yellowish-Black Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Stool that is yellow with black streaks? I previously experienced frequent abdominal pain, and recently I couldn't tolerate it any longer, so I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. After the procedure, it was discovered that I had gastric bleeding and Helicobacter ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Let's wait for the results of the occult blood test before making any conclusions! Theoretically, if there is gastrointestinal bleeding, the blood may appear red, possibly dark red, brick red, or bright red. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun[Read More] Understanding Yellowish-Black Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help