Understanding Bowel Sounds and Bloating: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Borborygmi, bloating Hello, doctor. I have been suffering from chronic indigestion for many years. I tend to experience diarrhea when I am stressed, along with occasional bloating and frequently unformed stools. The doctor has mostly diagnosed it as irritable bowel syndrome. Howe...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further examination may not be necessary; monitoring, dietary adjustments, and medication management should suffice.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Sounds and Bloating: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Diverticula: Risks, Management, and Colonoscopy Frequency
Issues related to colonoscopy? Hello Doctor, I had my first colonoscopy last week, and the results were normal with no polyps. However, I was found to have internal hemorrhoids and diverticula. This was my first time hearing about diverticula, so I asked the doctor who performed ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, the diverticula in the colon are benign conditions. Diverticula are pouch-like structures that form when the intestinal wall weakens and bulges outward for various reasons. During a colonoscopy, these appear as small indentations on the intestinal wall. The causes can be c...[Read More] Understanding Diverticula: Risks, Management, and Colonoscopy Frequency
Understanding Changes in Bowel Movements After Dieting with IBS
After two months of dieting for weight loss, my stools have become thin and watery. I have a history of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Hello Doctor, I have had a history of being unable to gain weight since childhood, often overeating, but I have also experienced chronic diarrhe...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr. Wei: Based on your description, it still appears to be irritable bowel syndrome. If you are concerned, we can arrange for a routine stool examination. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Movements After Dieting with IBS
Understanding Persistent Bowel Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Just having a bowel movement doesn't feel complete? Hello, I have a bowel movement every 2-3 days, and this frequency hasn't changed. However, I can clearly see a protrusion near my anus, which I initially thought was an external hemorrhoid and didn't pay much atte...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, can imaging studies help with the feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation? Currently, imaging studies such as abdominal X-rays, lower gastrointestinal tract imaging, and computed tomography (CT) scans can assist in diagnosing rectal and anal disorders. For rectal and coloni...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Bowel Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Managing Weight Loss and Bloating Challenges
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Dietary bloating, weight loss to underweight? Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Dietary Bloating, Weight Loss to Underweight Hello Doctor, I have been seeking medical attention for over a year and have consulted many doctors. As of January 19, 2021, I had...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You seem to have a tendency towards anxiety, and it is advisable to seek assistance from a psychosomatic specialist (along with a metabolic specialist to rule out any new metabolic diseases) for management.[Read More] Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Managing Weight Loss and Bloating Challenges
Understanding Long-Term Constipation and Rectal Issues: Causes and Solutions
Chronic constipation, rectal issues? Hello, doctor. I am currently working abroad and unable to return to Taiwan. I am on a waiting list to see a specialist, but due to the pandemic, I have not been able to get an appointment yet. I have been experiencing chronic constipation for...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely a constipation type of irritable bowel syndrome, but it is still recommended to check for occult blood in the stool to rule out colorectal disease. Additionally, increase the intake of fruits and vegetables, engage in post-meal walking exercises, establish a regular ...[Read More] Understanding Long-Term Constipation and Rectal Issues: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Is It Appendicitis or Something Else?
Is it appendicitis? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask a few questions: 1. I occasionally experience a twitching or pinching pain in the right lower quadrant, slightly more towards the center (it seems to be around the location of the appendix or about ten centimeters to the r...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Acute appendicitis should be ruled out. If symptoms persist, a colonoscopy or computed tomography may be necessary to exclude diverticulitis.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Is It Appendicitis or Something Else?
Blood on Toilet Paper: Should You Worry About Your Colon Health?
Blood on toilet paper after wiping? Hello Doctor, I had my first colonoscopy in October last year, during which two 2 cm polyps were removed (tubular adenomas), one was benign and the other was highly differentiated atypical. In November of the same year, I had another colonoscop...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: If you have polyps in the colon and a family history of colorectal cancer, it is important to follow up with colonoscopy screenings. The frequency of follow-up for polyps should be based on your physician's recommendations. It is also advisable to develop a habit of c...[Read More] Blood on Toilet Paper: Should You Worry About Your Colon Health?
Understanding Mucus in Stool and Black Spots: When to Seek Help
Mucus in stool, stool with black specks? Hello Doctor: A month ago, I visited a physician due to initial constipation followed by fresh blood in my stool. After performing a rectal examination, the doctor diagnosed me with hemorrhoids and prescribed suppositories, and I also unde...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is no need to worry about the reported condition; you can return for a follow-up appointment as instructed (or on your own) and discuss it with your physician.[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool and Black Spots: When to Seek Help
Understanding Sudden Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Left lower abdominal pain? Hello Doctor, for the past two weeks, I have been experiencing sudden pain in my lower left abdomen at least once a day, near the side of my waist. The pain feels like a sudden stabbing sensation and lasts anywhere from 1-2 seconds to 5-6 seconds. It oc...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Constipation can cause bloating in the intestines, and kidney stones that have dropped into the ureter may also present similar symptoms. Whether a colonoscopy is necessary can be assessed by a gastroenterologist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps
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
Understanding Rectal Foreign Sensation: When to Consider a Colonoscopy
Feeling of a foreign body in the anus? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been feeling a sensation of a foreign body in my anus. There is no bleeding or constipation, but I sometimes experience cramping pain in my lower abdomen, which resolves after using the restroom. I have never e...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It may be irritable bowel syndrome; a fecal occult blood test can be performed to rule out serious intestinal diseases, and a light diet should be adjusted for observation.[Read More] Understanding Rectal Foreign Sensation: When to Consider a Colonoscopy
Unexplained Weight Loss Despite Normal Appetite: A Gastroenterology Concern
Weight Issues ~ Weight Continues to Decrease Despite Normal Diet Hello, Doctor. My current health status is as follows: On December 3, 2020, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The attending physician explained that I have gastritis and mild ulcers, but my esophagus ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please discuss with the attending physician regarding the current data (hemangioma of the liver should only be monitored) and the management/consultation for weight loss.[Read More] Unexplained Weight Loss Despite Normal Appetite: A Gastroenterology Concern
Understanding Diverticulitis: Symptoms, Concerns, and Diagnosis
Questions related to diverticulitis? Hello Doctor, I discovered in my company's health check report in January 2019 that I had a positive fecal occult blood test with a level of 200. However, I did not undergo a colonoscopy and later went abroad. Prior to this, I had never e...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. If the pain subsides after a bowel movement or lasts only for a brief moment, there is usually no need for excessive concern; typically, if there is a problem, the pain would persist. 2. Bloating or fecal impaction can also present similar symptoms. 3. The presence of r...[Read More] Understanding Diverticulitis: Symptoms, Concerns, and Diagnosis
Understanding Red Spots Found During Colonoscopy: What You Need to Know
Colonoscopy revealed red spots? Hello doctor, I had a colonoscopy yesterday and found a small section of my colon covered with red spots. They are not protrusions, but rather the surface of the colon is covered with these red spots. When I asked the doctor, he said he didn't...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please discuss with the attending physician.[Read More] Understanding Red Spots Found During Colonoscopy: What You Need to Know
Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test Results: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Fecal occult blood issue? The fecal occult blood immunoassay result from the health check shows a value of 1.8 ng/mL. Why does the report indicate a positive result, and is this considered abnormal? Should further monitoring or additional testing be pursued?
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Hello, Xiao-Wen! Regarding your question, the fecal occult blood immunochemical test result is 1.8 ng/mL. Is this abnormal? If it is abnormal, is further testing necessary? The normal ranges can vary due to differences in testing equipment across hospitals, so it is advisable to ...[Read More] Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test Results: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: What You Need to Know
Bowel issues Hello Doctor, I am 20 years old. I was recently diagnosed with diverticulitis and have been taking antibiotics for four days, three times a day after meals. Over the past few days, I sometimes wake up in the morning and have a bowel movement, and then feel the urge t...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The formation of stool in the front and back segments is considered a normal phenomenon, as the moisture in the latter part of the stool has not been fully absorbed. Additionally, once the diverticulitis has healed, it is recommended to undergo a colonoscopy at Changhua Ho...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: What You Need to Know
Understanding Diverticulitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Diverticulitis Hello Doctor, I am 20 years old. Recently, I visited a doctor due to mild pain in my lower left abdomen and diarrhea. I underwent an abdominal ultrasound and blood tests. The doctor informed me that I have a diverticulum in my intestine, which is inflamed, but the ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Indeed, diverticulitis has a higher incidence in older individuals, but it is not impossible for it to occur in someone in their 20s. As for the diagnostic method, a CT scan is more accurate. It is recommended to undergo a colonoscopy after the diverticulitis has healed. C...[Read More] Understanding Diverticulitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Right Lower Abdomen Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Swelling in the right lower abdomen? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a few questions. 1. I experience a feeling of obstruction when passing gas and having bowel movements; I have to exert a lot of force or squat to relieve myself. My stools are either flattened or about the ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, a 32-year-old male is experiencing constipation and has grade III hemorrhoids. Straining during bowel movements can exacerbate the hemorrhoids, and severe hemorrhoids can sometimes lead to difficulties in passing stool. Causes of constipation may include dietary habits, in...[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdomen Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Diverticulitis: Dietary Tips and Concerns for Young Adults
Diverticulitis issues Hello doctor, I am 20 years old. Recently, I visited a doctor due to mild pain in my lower left abdomen and diarrhea. I underwent an abdominal ultrasound and blood tests. The doctor informed me that I have a diverticulum in my intestine, which is inflamed, a...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Ms. Jane, for diverticulitis, it is recommended to consume more fruits and vegetables and to stay well-hydrated. Regarding the colonoscopy issue, I suggest discussing it with your physician, as your age raises some concerns about attributing your symptoms solely to divertic...[Read More] Understanding Diverticulitis: Dietary Tips and Concerns for Young Adults