Can Hepatitis B Be Transmitted Through Scratches on Trash Bags?
Inquiry about Hepatitis B transmission? Hello, I would like to ask you: I am a carrier of hepatitis B. Yesterday, I accidentally scraped or rubbed my hand against a bag containing items before throwing it into the trash can. Later, I checked my hand and it seemed there was no ble...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is unlikely to cause transmission. Transmission is only possible with direct blood or sexual contact, and only if the other party lacks antibodies.[Read More] Can Hepatitis B Be Transmitted Through Scratches on Trash Bags?
Severe Upper Abdominal Pain at Night: Could Gallstones Be the Cause?
Experiencing upper abdominal pain for two consecutive nights that wakes you up, leading to a visit to the emergency room? Hello Doctor, a few days ago I experienced severe upper abdominal pain for two consecutive nights, waking up from the pain in my sleep. I initially thought it...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is still possible that the gallstone is temporarily lodged. If the pain occurs again, you can go to the emergency department for an ultrasound to confirm. The medication is not very effective, but surgery can be considered based on the situation and is not urgently needed at t...[Read More] Severe Upper Abdominal Pain at Night: Could Gallstones Be the Cause?
Understanding Black Specks in Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice
Issues related to black stool with small impurities? Hello, Doctor: In the past, I never paid much attention to whether there were impurities in my stool after using the bathroom. A few days ago, before flushing, I noticed a significant amount of small black specks in my stool (w...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Generally, it is primarily caused by food. If the stool is black, it should resemble tar and not just have a small spot. If you still have concerns, you can test for occult blood in the stool. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Black Specks in Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello Doctor: Three years ago, I experienced gastroesophageal reflux and throat discomfort due to binge eating in a short period. After undergoing an endoscopy, it was found that my esophagus had erosions, while my stomach was in good condit...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist, who can determine whether to arrange for an endoscopy. This will help clearly identify the issue. Additionally, please be aware of any potential weight issues that may contribute to sleep apnea. Furthermore, try to avoid e...[Read More] Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Upper Abdominal Pain: Is It Related to Pancreatic Issues?
What is upper abdominal pain? Hello doctor, I am 170 cm tall and weigh 62 kg. I do not smoke or drink alcohol. I would like to ask about my ongoing issues with gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers. I do not have Helicobacter pylori, but I have been treating my ulcers for a long tim...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Mr. Hong: I would like to know how long it has been since you started losing weight. I recommend discussing your situation with your physician to hear their advice and how to proceed. Director Cai Jin-ji, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Pain: Is It Related to Pancreatic Issues?
Unexplained Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Seeking Solutions and Next Steps
Left lower abdominal pain of unknown origin? Since March of this year, I have been experiencing pain in the left lower abdomen after walking for extended periods (more than 5-10 minutes). I have consulted with medical professionals and undergone blood tests, colonoscopy, gastrosc...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely caused by neuromuscular issues; you may also consult a rehabilitation physician.[Read More] Unexplained Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Seeking Solutions and Next Steps
Understanding Rectal Discomfort: Is It Just Anxiety or Something More?
Is there something unusual about the anus? Could it be a feeling of tenesmus? Hello, doctor. I apologize for bothering you. Since the start of the school year, I have been experiencing gastrointestinal issues. Initially, I had diarrhea every few days, and both traditional and Wes...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Colorectal cancer does not have specific symptoms, but various symptoms can worsen. Your condition seems more like an anal fissure or hemorrhoids, or it could be caused by consuming irritating foods. It is recommended to increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and flui...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Discomfort: Is It Just Anxiety or Something More?
Concerns About Pork Tapeworm Infection: Testing and Symptoms Explained
Issues related to the examination of pork tapeworm? Hello, I purchased frozen thick-cut pork chops from Carrefour on July 5th. After bringing them home, my husband did not cook the pork thoroughly. Because the outer layer was coated with flour, we could not see that the pork was ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If you are concerned, you can consult with an infectious disease specialist for testing.[Read More] Concerns About Pork Tapeworm Infection: Testing and Symptoms Explained
Understanding Dark Stool: Causes and Concerns After Medication Change
Bowel movement color issues? Hello Dr. Tsai, Last month, my cardiologist switched my medication from Rosuvastatin to Lipitor 500/20. About a week after starting the new medication, I noticed that the color of my first bowel movement in the morning was very dark, almost black. H...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If you notice that your stool is nearly black, it is advisable to check for fecal occult blood. If the results are normal, there is no need to worry. If abnormal, you may consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Ts...[Read More] Understanding Dark Stool: Causes and Concerns After Medication Change
Painless Rectal Bleeding: Understanding Causes and Concerns
Painless rectal bleeding? Hello Doctor: I have been having normal bowel movements for the past two days without any pain, but I noticed a lot of bright red blood when wiping. The toilet bowl is filled with blood, and there are a couple of drops of blood on the toilet paper as wel...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely anal fissure bleeding; you should seek medical treatment.[Read More] Painless Rectal Bleeding: Understanding Causes and Concerns
Understanding Stool Color Changes: When to Worry and When Not To
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that? Hello Doctor, I have undergone fecal occult blood tests (two types), and the results were normal. I asked the doctor if there is a possibility of false negatives, and he mentioned that both tests have very high sensitivity, and gastr...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Don't worry, a light diet will suffice.[Read More] Understanding Stool Color Changes: When to Worry and When Not To
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Sleep Problems and Liver Health
Hello, doctor? Hello, Doctor! I have been unable to sleep in July and August this year, only falling asleep around 7 AM the next day. I have a long history of insomnia and irregular sleep patterns, but it was particularly severe this past July and August. In September, while taki...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. Fecal occult blood testing can be performed. 2. Eliminate poor dietary habits / weight loss. 3. Medications may be necessary to manage digestive symptoms. 4. Psychological evaluation may be needed for insomnia medication.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Sleep Problems and Liver Health
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Managing Stress and Digestive Health
Gastrointestinal issues can be quite bothersome..? Hello, doctor... Recently, I've been experiencing a lot of academic pressure, but I'm eating regular meals and including vegetables in my diet. However, I haven't been drinking enough water and haven't been ex...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, take a walk after meals, reduce prolonged sitting, and observe the results. If necessary, consider having a laxative on hand.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Managing Stress and Digestive Health
Is It Normal for Stool to Vary in Size? Understanding Digestive Health
Bowel movement issues Stool is typically about 4 cm in diameter, but if the last segment is approximately 1.6 cm, is this normal?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables and monitor your condition. If you are concerned, you may consider testing for occult blood in the stool.[Read More] Is It Normal for Stool to Vary in Size? Understanding Digestive Health
Persistent Diarrhea: Understanding Prolonged Gastroenteritis Symptoms
Diarrhea with watery stools will not improve? Hello, Doctor. About a month ago, I experienced symptoms of gastroenteritis. Typically, my first bowel movement in the morning (around 8 or 9 AM) is somewhat loose, and then about four to five hours later, I have two to three episodes...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You may seek medical treatment again and follow a light diet.[Read More] Persistent Diarrhea: Understanding Prolonged Gastroenteritis Symptoms
Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Gastrointestinal bloating Doctor, I have a question. About a month ago, I went to the hospital and had an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. My stool tested negative for occult blood, and I also had an ultrasound. The doctor diagnosed me with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely a case of digestive abnormalities, which can be assisted with digestive aids and dietary adjustments. It is advisable to avoid high FODMAP foods (details can be found online; the term "FODMAP" stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosacc...[Read More] Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Do You Need to Stop Medications or Fast Before a Stool Test?
Stool examination Is there a need to discontinue any medications or avoid certain foods before undergoing a fecal occult blood test using immunochemical methods?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
No need to stop medication, maintain a normal diet.[Read More] Do You Need to Stop Medications or Fast Before a Stool Test?
Do You Need to Stop Medications or Fast Before a Fecal Occult Blood Test?
Stool examination Is there a need to stop any medications or fast from certain foods before undergoing a fecal occult blood test using immunochemical methods?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
No need to stop the medication, maintain a normal diet.[Read More] Do You Need to Stop Medications or Fast Before a Fecal Occult Blood Test?
Do You Need to Stop Medications or Adjust Diet for Fecal Occult Blood Testing?
Fecal occult blood immunochemical test? Hello doctor, I am currently taking Dexilant. I am about to undergo a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) for occult blood. Should I stop taking the medication or adjust my diet before this test?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
No need to stop medication, maintain a regular diet.[Read More] Do You Need to Stop Medications or Adjust Diet for Fecal Occult Blood Testing?
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes in Young Children: What Parents Should Know
Liver enzyme issues? A 3-year-old child attended a growth clinic and had blood test results showing: 1. AST/SGOT: 49 (reference range: 10-42) 2. Lymphocytes: 60 (reference range: 19-48). All other report results were normal, with only these two values highlighted in red. The chil...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Whether it's liver function tests or lymphocyte counts, the primary purpose of blood tests every three months is to monitor the trends in these indices. If your physician recommends it, it is advisable to continue monitoring. Changhua Hospital cares about your health....[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes in Young Children: What Parents Should Know