Understanding White Objects in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Stool mixed with unidentified white objects? Hello Doctor, I noticed white objects in my stool three weeks ago. Two weeks ago, I visited a gastroenterology clinic, and the doctor ordered a stool test. During the sample collection, I specifically retrieved the portion with the whi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further observation is warranted; currently, it is believed that this is not caused by a disease.[Read More] Understanding White Objects in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Fatty Liver: Causes, Risks, and Dietary Solutions
Fatty liver disease issues? Hello Doctor, I have abnormal liver enzyme levels from a blood test: GOT=30 and GPT=52 (with normal values being below 40). My previous blood tests were normal, and this time it is abnormal. The doctor arranged for me to have an ultrasound, which indic...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Severe fatty liver disease (high liver fat content) can lead to liver inflammation (i.e., steatohepatitis), and over time (over several decades), there is a risk of cirrhosis (which can be assessed through out-of-pocket fibrosis markers) and an increased likelihood of developing ...[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver: Causes, Risks, and Dietary Solutions
Understanding Dark Brown Liquid in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Bowel issues Recently, I have noticed a dark brown liquid settling at the bottom of my stool after having a bowel movement. I'm not sure if it is blood. There is no pain during bowel movements, the stool color appears normal, and there is no blood when wiping. For the past 1...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If there is bleeding, it may present as melena, brick-red stools, or bright red blood in the stool. There is no need to worry too much at this stage. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Dark Brown Liquid in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Can CT and MRI Detect Inflammation in the Digestive Tract?
Issues related to digestive motility or inflammation? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if CT and MRI can detect inflammation in the intestines. Recently, I have been experiencing discomfort in the area of the appendix and ileum (tenderness and bloating), and I am worried about ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
For highly specialized topics, it is advisable to consult with a gastroenterologist at a specialized gastrointestinal clinic or a major hospital.[Read More] Can CT and MRI Detect Inflammation in the Digestive Tract?
Understanding Anal Masses: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
Anal polyp Hello doctor, I have a lump near my anus, as shown in the picture (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HJtdyJPlGdYMC5_9NKORQe3i4NGZOIF7/view?usp=sharing). When I pull on the area, the lump protrudes more, but when I don't pull, it slightly retracts. It feels soft to ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It may be an internal hemorrhoid. If there are no symptoms, it can be monitored. If necessary, a consultation with a colorectal surgeon may be required.[Read More] Understanding Anal Masses: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
Chronic Diarrhea, Abdominal Discomfort, and Post-Vaccine Gastro Issues
Chronic diarrhea + hunger sensation in the stomach + bloating + lower abdominal pain? I have been experiencing intermittent diarrhea for over three months, with symptoms fluctuating, especially after eating out. Even when I am not having diarrhea, my stools have become thinner th...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A gastroenterology outpatient consultation can be provided. A fecal occult blood test can be performed initially to check for any abnormalities.[Read More] Chronic Diarrhea, Abdominal Discomfort, and Post-Vaccine Gastro Issues
Rectal Injury from Fingering: When to Seek Medical Attention
Anal intercourse issues? Hello doctor, I used my finger for anal masturbation, and due to untrimmed nails, I accidentally scraped the rectal wall, resulting in blood on the tissue. Should I see a doctor and take medication, or are there any care methods to help the rectal wall he...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there is persistent blood in the stool or fever, medical attention should be sought.[Read More] Rectal Injury from Fingering: When to Seek Medical Attention
Post-Surgery Complications After Bile Duct Cancer Treatment
Postoperative Issues Following Bile Duct Surgery Dear Doctor, I would like to consult you regarding my father. Three years ago, he underwent surgery for early-stage bile duct cancer, during which his gallbladder, pancreas, and part of his stomach were removed. Recently, he has b...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, regarding gastrointestinal bleeding, a small bowel endoscopy revealed a bleeding point that could not be controlled, along with issues related to stroke, indicating a more complex condition. Generally, the treatment for gastrointestinal bleeding aims to stabilize vital sig...[Read More] Post-Surgery Complications After Bile Duct Cancer Treatment
Understanding Rectal Foreign Body Sensation: When to Seek Medical Advice
Anorectal foreign body sensation Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about a lump near my anus (I'm not sure if it's a polyp). I was previously diagnosed with an external hemorrhoid and underwent a minor surgery. This time, I usually don't feel pain or itching, but ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, a 15-year-old male is experiencing a sensation of a foreign body in the anus, with no blood in the stool. He has a history of external hemorrhoid surgery and occasionally feels pain along with the sensation of a foreign body, but bowel movements are normal and there is no ...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Foreign Body Sensation: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Right lower abdominal pain? Hello Dr. Lin: About a year ago, I started feeling a slight, intermittent pain or a sensation of foreign body in the lower right abdomen (approximately 15 cm to the right of the navel). This year, I underwent gastroscopy, colonoscopy, and abdominal ult...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, a 51-year-old male is experiencing intermittent pain in the right lower abdomen. He has undergone gastroscopy and abdominal ultrasound, which revealed polyps in the colon. The ultrasound also indicated moderate fatty liver and abnormal liver enzymes (GOT, GPT), suggesting ...[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Unexplained Fatigue and Hunger Despite Regular Meals: Possible Causes and Solutions
I have been eating three meals a day regularly, but recently I often feel hungry and weak? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask, if I eat three meals regularly and in appropriate portions, but sometimes I don't feel hungry even when it's not mealtime, yet I experience diz...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: You can consult with a metabolic specialist to evaluate if there are any issues with your endocrine system. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Unexplained Fatigue and Hunger Despite Regular Meals: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Recent Blood and Mucus in Stool: A Gastroenterology Perspective
Recent issues with blood in stool and mucus? Hello Dr. Chen, I asked a related question on August 12. Since I have cerebral palsy and use a wheelchair, I am unable to exercise regularly. Last time, I mentioned that my bowel habits changed starting at the age of 13, and I often ex...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A fecal occult blood test can be performed on normal-looking stools (which rules out bleeding from internal hemorrhoids). If there are still concerns, please discuss with your outpatient physician whether further examination is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Recent Blood and Mucus in Stool: A Gastroenterology Perspective
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Could It Be Crohn's Disease?
Abdominal issues? Hello, Doctor. Yesterday, I went to a large hospital for a urine test, blood draw, and X-ray. The results of the urine and blood tests were normal. During the physical examination, there was pain upon palpation (but no specific rebound tenderness). The X-ray ind...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can review the report to make a decision. Additionally, blood tests can be referenced. If symptoms persist, discuss further treatment options with your physician.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Could It Be Crohn's Disease?
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Rectal bleeding Hello: I occasionally experience constipation, and recently I've felt some pain in my anus during bowel movements. There was blood on the toilet paper when I wiped, but it hasn't occurred again. After using the restroom, I also feel some discomfort in my...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Due to constipation, the likelihood of hemorrhoids or anal fissures bleeding is higher. However, if the bleeding occurs frequently or worsens, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Nausea Without Fever: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Nausea without fever? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a persistent loss of appetite recently. I can barely eat more than half of what I usually do before feeling nauseous. This has been going on for 4 to 5 days. I do not have a fever or diarrhea, and my overall energy leve...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Gastroesophageal reflux, gastritis, and irritable bowel syndrome are all possibilities. Adjusting your diet and lifestyle may help. If there is no improvement, you can consult a gastroenterologist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Nausea Without Fever: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
How Often Should You Get a Colonoscopy? Guidelines for Young Adults
How often should a colonoscopy be performed? Hello Doctor, I am 21 years old, 176 cm tall, and weigh 103 kg, with a BMI of around 33. Three years ago, at the age of 18, I underwent a colonoscopy, which revealed only internal hemorrhoids and no other issues. The doctor diagnosed m...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
In principle, it is not necessary, but if concerned, a yearly fecal occult blood test can be performed.[Read More] How Often Should You Get a Colonoscopy? Guidelines for Young Adults
Understanding Abnormal Liver Enzymes: Causes and Concerns
Abnormal liver function tests? In July, blood tests revealed abnormalities in blood sugar, liver enzymes, and cholesterol. The cholesterol issue had been noted since high school health checks, and the physician later believed it to be hereditary (as my mother also has this issue)...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. If other causes are excluded, be cautious of the side effects of lipid-lowering medications. 2. No, it won't. 3. It shouldn't either.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Liver Enzymes: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and Concerns for Teens
Regarding rectal bleeding? Hello doctor, I had normal bowel movements until I was 13 years old. Since then, the shape of my stools has changed and continues to do so. I have cerebral palsy and use a wheelchair. At that time, I was diagnosed with internal hemorrhoids. My stool con...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It may just be an issue with digestive motility, but I am still concerned about checking for occult blood in the stool.[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and Concerns for Teens
Understanding Persistent Abdominal Pain: Causes and Insights
Abdominal pain for one week? Hello Doctor, since August 3rd, I have been experiencing abdominal pain every morning upon waking up, accompanied by the urge to use the restroom. However, when I go, I do not have diarrhea; sometimes, I only pass gas. When I do have a bowel movement,...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The vaccination on July 30 should not be related to gastrointestinal symptoms. If abdominal pain persists after bowel movements, it cannot be ruled out that there may be retained stool. You may consider consulting a gastroenterologist for medication treatment and possibly ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Abdominal Pain: Causes and Insights
Understanding Stool Color Changes: When to Worry About Your Digestive Health
Bowel issues Hello, Doctor. After having a bowel movement, I occasionally notice that the stool settles at the bottom of the toilet, and the water appears orange-red, which doesn't look like blood. I would like to ask if this could indicate bleeding in the digestive system o...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Colored foods can affect the appearance of stool. If there is uncertainty, a fecal occult blood test is typically performed. If the fecal occult blood test shows abnormalities, a colonoscopy is usually arranged to identify the issue. Changhua Hospital cares about your heal...[Read More] Understanding Stool Color Changes: When to Worry About Your Digestive Health