High White Blood Cell Count in Liver Abscess: Discharge Considerations
Elevated white blood cell count in liver abscess? 79 years old! After 21 days of drainage, the white blood cell count is still over 20,000. Is it possible to be discharged under these circumstances? Is there a 21-day limit for insurance-covered hospital beds? How many days should...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
The treatment duration for a liver abscess is related to the size of the abscess, the underlying cause, the type of infecting bacteria, and the patient's response to treatment. Treatment for a liver abscess may include surgery, drainage, and antibiotic therapy, with complete...[Read More] High White Blood Cell Count in Liver Abscess: Discharge Considerations
Understanding Elevated Lipase Levels: A Guide for Concerned Parents
Amylase and lipase? I would like to ask about my son's situation. He is in his twenties and was diagnosed with acute gastroenteritis in August 2022. During an emergency visit, his lipase level was 82. When we followed up with a gastroenterologist, the doctor mentioned that t...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Causes of elevated lipase levels include acute and chronic pancreatitis, renal failure, cholecystitis, intestinal obstruction or infarction, duodenal ulcers, pancreatic stones, pancreatic tumors, diabetes, hepatitis C infection, HIV infection, hyperlipasemia, inflammatory bowel d...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Lipase Levels: A Guide for Concerned Parents
Emergency Surgery for Acute Cholecystitis: Navigating High Liver Enzymes
The emergency physician arranged for an urgent surgical operation? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to inquire about the following narrative: A patient presented to the emergency department late at night with abdominal pain. Blood tests revealed elevated liver enzymes, and a CT s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If the liver function tests are significantly elevated, anesthesia or surgery may not be advisable. Please discuss the details with your attending physician.[Read More] Emergency Surgery for Acute Cholecystitis: Navigating High Liver Enzymes
Gallbladder Removal: When Is Surgery Necessary for Gallstones?
Cholecystectomy Hello, doctor. I have gastroesophageal reflux disease, and recently I've experienced right upper abdominal pain twice within a week. The emergency department diagnosed me with gallstones leading to cholecystitis, but my blood tests are normal. I would like to...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
The primary treatment for symptomatic gallstones is cholecystectomy. If a physician assesses that a patient is not suitable for surgery, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy combined with medication can be considered. Additionally, lifestyle and dietary modifications are necessa...[Read More] Gallbladder Removal: When Is Surgery Necessary for Gallstones?
When Can a Gallbladder Drain Tube Be Removed Safely?
Gallbladder drainage tube Hello, my family member has cholecystitis but is too old to undergo surgery, so a drainage tube has been placed. When can the drainage tube be removed? The doctor mentioned that removing it could lead to a recurrence. Is it possible to keep the drainage ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Not removing/fixed tube exchange has protection/insurance against recurrence (though it may still slip). Removing it carries a risk of recurrence (not 100%). Therefore, it is important to discuss and make a decision with the attending physician, carefully monitor, and do everythi...[Read More] When Can a Gallbladder Drain Tube Be Removed Safely?
Understanding Gallbladder Removal Surgery: Methods and Pre-Procedure Care
Cholecystectomy surgical methods? Hello Dr. Chen, I have chronic cholecystitis with many gallstones and I am planning to undergo surgical removal. What are the current surgical methods? Is an enema typically performed before the surgery? (I am quite worried.)
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Most procedures are minimally invasive laparoscopic surgeries, which do not require bowel preparation; however, individual circumstances may vary, so it is advisable to discuss this with the attending surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Removal Surgery: Methods and Pre-Procedure Care
Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Liver and Gallbladder Insights
Abdominal ultrasound examination? Hello Dr. Chen, I had an abdominal ultrasound examination yesterday, and I translated the findings myself. I found several issues!!! The liver size is normal, but the parenchyma is heterogeneous, the surface is smooth, and the vascular system is ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there is no hepatitis B/C or pain, monitoring is sufficient.[Read More] Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Liver and Gallbladder Insights
Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Report: Key Insights on Gallbladder and Liver Health
Abdominal Ultrasound Report Dear Deputy Director, I would like to ask for your assistance in interpreting the abdominal ultrasound findings. Thank you. Findings: Biliary tract: Huge gallbladder (GB) with wall thickening and multiple stones. Liver: Smooth surface, no nodules...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there are gallstones accompanied by gallbladder enlargement or thickening of the gallbladder wall, and if there is right upper quadrant pain or suspicion of cholecystitis, it is necessary to go to the emergency department.[Read More] Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Report: Key Insights on Gallbladder and Liver Health
What is the Normal Daily Bile Drainage Volume After Cholecystostomy?
The normal daily output of a bile drainage tube is typically between 500 to 1000 milliliters? Hello, doctor. My family member, who is 60 years old, had a bile drainage tube placed last Sunday due to cholecystitis. It has been a week now, and the drainage volume in the mornings an...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The amount of bile drainage depends on the individual's condition; please discuss this with your attending physician.[Read More] What is the Normal Daily Bile Drainage Volume After Cholecystostomy?
Exploring the Link Between Acalculous Cholecystitis and Anal Intercourse
Cholecystitis issues? Hello Doctor, I am the person who asked about gallbladder issues #184794. I underwent an ultrasound examination, and there were no abnormalities in the abdominal cavity, and no gallstones were found, so the doctor diagnosed it as a bacterial infection. Howev...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: There should be no correlation. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Exploring the Link Between Acalculous Cholecystitis and Anal Intercourse
Understanding Gallbladder Inflammation: Causes and Connections
Gallbladder issues Hello doctor, I visited the doctor a week ago due to bloating, which subsequently turned into cholecystitis. I am currently taking antibiotics and my symptoms have improved. During the initial examination, no gallstones were found, so it was determined to be no...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It should be unrelated. Generally speaking, the likelihood of gallbladder inflammation is low without gallstones. If you haven't had an abdominal ultrasound, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist to arrange for one. Changhua Hospital cares about your healt...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Inflammation: Causes and Connections
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 Upper Abdominal Discomfort After Eating: Causes and Solutions
A problem with the stomach? The issue is that after eating an apple and an orange on an empty stomach in the morning, I then consumed three meat buns. Within less than half an hour, I began to experience bloating and some dull pain in my upper abdomen. I thought a walk would help...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: A 43-year-old male experienced abdominal bloating and pain after eating too much and too quickly, followed by cold sweats and vomiting. The next day, he had diarrhea, which could indicate gastroenteritis, but also possibly cholecystitis or pancreatitis. Two weeks later, he...[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort After Eating: Causes and Solutions
Can Gallbladder Inflammation Cause Pain in Upper Left and Lower Right Abdomen?
Cholecystitis can cause pain in the upper left abdomen, lower right abdomen, and right abdomen? Dear Dr. Tsai, I recently had an abdominal ultrasound, and the doctor diagnosed me with gallstones and an enlarged gallbladder, suggesting that I should undergo surgery for chronic ch...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello, in cases of gallbladder distension, the area of pain may expand, or gallbladder dysfunction can lead to indigestion, causing discomfort in other areas as well. Additionally, the presence of other concurrent issues should also be considered. It is recommended to follow up w...[Read More] Can Gallbladder Inflammation Cause Pain in Upper Left and Lower Right Abdomen?
Sudden Nighttime Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Sudden abdominal pain at night? In the past two to three days, I have frequently felt bloated in the upper right abdomen. At around 6 PM, I had a palm-sized salty mooncake (which was a bit oily) for dinner. By midnight, I suddenly experienced a mild pain in the middle of my upper...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Acute pain in the right upper abdomen must rule out the possibility of cholecystitis. Pain in the right lower abdomen must rule out acute appendicitis. If there is pain in both the upper and lower right sides, it could be acute enteritis. If symptoms persist and do not rel...[Read More] Sudden Nighttime Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding White Stool: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
White stool Hello Dr. Lin, I noticed white stools when I had a bowel movement on Monday (April 12). After researching online, I found that the symptoms related to my condition could be gallstones and hepatitis. A few years ago, I had an abdominal ultrasound for hepatitis B and w...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Normal stool is yellow, while white stool is often caused by the inability of bile to flow, which can be due to liver, gallbladder, or pancreatic diseases. Common causes include bile duct obstruction. If bile duct obstruction is suspected, there may also be symptoms such a...[Read More] Understanding White Stool: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Do Gallstones and Cholecystitis Always Require Gallbladder Removal?
Is gallbladder removal necessary for gallstones accompanied by cholecystitis? Two weeks ago, I experienced pain on the right side of my abdomen and went to the emergency room. Blood tests showed abnormalities: CRP: 162, Total Bilirubin: 1.5, Segmented Neutrophils: 80, Lymphocytes...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Cholecystectomy is still recommended; please discuss any related issues with your attending physician.[Read More] Do Gallstones and Cholecystitis Always Require Gallbladder Removal?
Managing Fatty Liver and Gastrointestinal Issues: Your Questions Answered
Inquiry and consultation? Hello Doctor: I had a liver ultrasound today. I have been associated with the hepatobiliary and gastroenterology department since many years ago due to elevated liver enzymes. In my younger days, I often stayed up late and had a penchant for sweet foods ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, fatty liver refers to the accumulation of fat in liver cells, which may sometimes cause fluctuations in liver enzyme levels, but typically involves minimal liver fibrosis. Once it progresses to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the liver may exhibit inflammation or fib...[Read More] Managing Fatty Liver and Gastrointestinal Issues: Your Questions Answered
Are Gallstone Medications Linked to Skin Allergies and Redness?
Is there a connection between medication for gallstones and skin allergies causing redness and swelling? Hello, I was diagnosed with acute cholecystitis due to gallstones in February 2019, which led to acute pancreatitis. I was hospitalized and received intravenous antibiotics, a...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
I'm sorry, I don't have experience with that medication. Gallstones do not affect the skin.[Read More] Are Gallstone Medications Linked to Skin Allergies and Redness?
Post-Laparoscopic Recovery: When Can I Lift My Baby After Gallbladder Surgery?
Postoperative Recovery Issues Regarding Lifting Heavy Objects After Laparoscopic Surgery for Umbilical Wound? At the end of December, I felt unwell and was diagnosed with cholecystitis and gallstones in the emergency room. The next day, I quickly underwent surgery to remove the g...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
For wound issues, it is recommended to consult a general surgeon.[Read More] Post-Laparoscopic Recovery: When Can I Lift My Baby After Gallbladder Surgery?