Understanding Blood in Soft Stool: Causes and Concerns
Soft stools with bleeding? Hello, doctor. I have a history of gastrointestinal issues. Recently, I experienced symptoms similar to gastroenteritis, with vomiting and diarrhea. I saw a doctor, finished my medication, and have not vomited since. However, I have had soft stools for ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: During constipation or diarrhea, the pressure or contraction near the anal area often leads to hemorrhoidal bleeding. Of course, whether there are other lesions in the rectal or anal area may require further examination with a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy if necessary. Wis...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Soft Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Diagnosis
Right lower abdominal pain? Hello, Dr. Chen. I would like to ask you about some recent health issues. I've been experiencing intermittent pain in my lower right abdomen, located roughly on the right side of my belly, which usually lasts about an hour and is tolerable. Howeve...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello David, 1. Please check for any right kidney/ureter stones. 2. A stool occult blood test should be performed. 3. If symptoms persist, a non-invasive colonoscopy or related examinations should be conducted, as determined by a specialist. 4. Ultrasound can visualize the l...[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Diagnosis
Understanding Bowel Issues: When to Seek Gastrointestinal Care
Bowel movement issues Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to consult you: For the past two months, my bowel movements have not been very smooth. A month ago, I visited a clinic, and the doctor diagnosed me with constipation and prescribed medication for a few days, but there has been no...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to undergo further examination of the colon (colonoscopy or barium enema). Best wishes, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: When to Seek Gastrointestinal Care
Understanding Polyp Removal: Patient Rights and Insurance Issues
Colorectal polypectomy? I have been suffering from chronic constipation and blood in my stool. After undergoing a colonoscopy, the doctor found polyps and performed a polypectomy during the procedure. When I requested a medical certificate from the doctor, he refused to include t...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, please communicate again with the physician. Whether the removal of a large polyp is considered "surgery" or if it only qualifies as "surgery" when performed in the operating room is subjective. You may also inquire with the insurance company to see if ...[Read More] Understanding Polyp Removal: Patient Rights and Insurance Issues
Frequent Urges to Defecate After Eating: Is It IBS or Something Else?
Feeling the urge to have a bowel movement after eating? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been feeling the urge to have a bowel movement right after eating, with a maximum of 1 to 3 times a day. Is this normal? My stools are formed but softer, not watery, and my stomach doesn&#x...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: "Having the urge to defecate after eating" is known as the "gastrocolic reflex." This is a natural physiological response of the body. The gastrocolic reflex refers to the stimulation of colonic motility when food reaches the stomach, which pushes stool...[Read More] Frequent Urges to Defecate After Eating: Is It IBS or Something Else?
Understanding Anal Exams: Manual Checks vs. Colonoscopy Insights
Rectal examination So, does the doctor need to perform a digital rectal examination for an anal examination? Can it also be detected through a colonoscopy?
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: A digital rectal examination (DRE) refers to the procedure where a physician uses a finger to palpate the anal canal and the rectum for any lesions (such as rectal tumors, prostate issues outside the rectum, and gynecological concerns). The difference from a colonoscopy is...[Read More] Understanding Anal Exams: Manual Checks vs. Colonoscopy Insights
Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Managing Symptoms and Triggers
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my condition. I have been suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), specifically the diarrhea-predominant type, since elementary school. Recently, my symptoms have evolved; whenever I enter a stressful ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, JJpon. 1. You can take vegetables before stressful situations. 2. These types of medications have a high safety profile and can be kept on hand for situational use (they are not a last resort, but can be used in emergencies). 3. Adjusting your mood and maintaining a re...[Read More] Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Managing Symptoms and Triggers
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Further Testing
Gastroenterology issues Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing intermittent abdominal pain for over a year now. The pain is characterized as cramping, bloating, colicky, and sharp, accompanied by a feeling of pressure and discomfort in both my lower back and abdomen. Recently, I ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If you have concerns that require further examination, it may be necessary to discuss this with your attending physician. The physician arranges tests after taking a history and conducting a physical examination to confirm the accuracy of the diagnostic judgment made durin...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Further Testing
Understanding White Mucus in Stool: Is It a Sign of Colon Cancer?
Chronic constipation with white mucus in the stool? I have been suffering from constipation since childhood, having a bowel movement only once a week. Recently, due to my pregnancy, I often go over a week or even two weeks without any urge to defecate. Initially, drinking milk an...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The colonic mucosa naturally secretes mucus, which serves as a lubricant for the passage of stool through the colon. Colorectal cancer primarily occurs in middle-aged and older adults. The likelihood of developing colorectal cancer at the age of 24 is quite low, unless the...[Read More] Understanding White Mucus in Stool: Is It a Sign of Colon Cancer?
How Long Does a Colonoscopy Take? Insights from Gastroenterology Experts
Colonoscopy..? How long does a colonoscopy typically take? Thank you for your response, doctor.
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The average duration is about 20-30 minutes; however, it can vary depending on the number of lesions found and the complexity of the procedures, making it difficult to estimate the time. It may differ from person to person. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Ts...[Read More] How Long Does a Colonoscopy Take? Insights from Gastroenterology Experts
Understanding Persistent Bowel Urgency: A Guide for Patients
Constant urge to have a bowel movement throughout the day? I am a person with a disability and have been experiencing constipation for the past three years. I have seen doctors and undergone a colonoscopy, but each time the doctor only prescribes laxatives. While the medication h...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Constipation is a frustrating issue. If you have undergone a colonoscopy and no tumors were found, but you experience the urge to defecate and urinate at night, it is advisable to consult a urologist to check for any prostate issues. Medication may help improve the conditi...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Bowel Urgency: A Guide for Patients
Excessive Gas and Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Excessive flatulence? Hello doctor, a few days ago I read in the newspaper that if someone passes gas more than 20 times a day, they should seek medical attention. I have a long-term issue with lower abdominal pain. I have undergone tests including stool analysis, gastroscopy, ab...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: For gastrointestinal dysfunction, the following recommendations are suggested: 1. Dietary adjustments: Limit oil, dairy, irritants, fried foods, tea, coffee, and foods such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, taro, cheese, and butter. Focus on a mild and light diet, and avoid ove...[Read More] Excessive Gas and Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Chronic Abdominal Pain: When to Consider a Colonoscopy
Long-term distress? Doctor, I have been suffering from long-term pain in my upper and lower abdomen. The doctor prescribed medication for irritable bowel syndrome, but I still experience intermittent abdominal pain. I have undergone stool tests, gastroscopy, colon X-rays, and liv...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello, are you referring to a barium enema when you mention a colon X-ray? If it is indeed a barium enema, then under the condition of complete bowel preparation, polyps, ulcers, or tumors of a certain size in the colon can be detected. However, each examination has its own accur...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Abdominal Pain: When to Consider a Colonoscopy
Excessive Gas After Colon Cancer Surgery: Is It Normal?
Is it normal to pass gas every day after colon cancer surgery? Hello, doctor. I was diagnosed with stage III sigmoid colon cancer, and it has been two years since my surgery. After chemotherapy, my condition has stabilized. However, I have been experiencing excessive flatulence d...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello: There are many factors involved, such as diet, medication, infections, and individual constitution. It is recommended to visit an outpatient clinic for evaluation and treatment by a physician.[Read More] Excessive Gas After Colon Cancer Surgery: Is It Normal?
Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation
Abdominal discomfort with alternating diarrhea and constipation? Hello, Doctor. I have had poor dietary habits and been overweight. Since February, I have suddenly experienced left abdominal pain (which seems to be cramping pain), and then gastrointestinal issues began. Initially...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: According to your description, being overweight and having poor dietary habits, along with discomfort in the left abdomen, if it is in the upper left abdomen, may indicate gastric issues. The limited abdominal space, if occupied by intra-abdominal fat, can compress the nor...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation
Understanding Chronic Diarrhea with Blood: Causes and Next Steps
Long-term blood in stool? Hello, about two years ago, I started experiencing diarrhea, approximately 3 to 5 times a day, occasionally with a bit of blood. Six months ago, I began having persistent bloody stools (the blood is mostly sprayed out, and the stools are watery), occurri...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to proceed with a colonoscopy. Best wishes, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Diarrhea with Blood: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding the Accuracy of Gastrointestinal Tests: A Comprehensive Guide
Gastrointestinal examination Doctor, I have been troubled by long-term pain in my upper and lower abdomen. I have undergone stool tests, gastroscopy, colon X-rays, and liver and gallbladder ultrasound. I would like to ask about the accuracy rates of these tests: what is the accur...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, the accuracy of these tests is around 90% or even above 95%. The accuracy of a barium enema is slightly lower, at about 80%, and if necessary, a colonoscopy should be performed. However, the likelihood of functional disorders is higher depending on age,...[Read More] Understanding the Accuracy of Gastrointestinal Tests: A Comprehensive Guide
Impact of Birth Control Pills on Painless Colonoscopy Preparation
Painless colonoscopy Doctor, I have been experiencing blood in my stool for the past few months, so I consulted a physician who scheduled me for a painless colonoscopy. However, I did not inform the doctor that I take oral contraceptives daily. Will this have any impact? Can I co...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Birth control pills are generally taken once a day. As for when to take them, it does not have a significant impact; you can take them after completing a colonoscopy. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Impact of Birth Control Pills on Painless Colonoscopy Preparation
Pregnancy and Blood in Stool: Understanding Risks and Concerns
Since the beginning of the pregnancy until now, there has been continuous blood in the stool for eight months? I am currently eight months pregnant! Ever since I discovered my pregnancy, I have been experiencing blood in my stool. The blood is dark red and sticks to the outside o...
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
Gastrointestinal motility is affected by the increased secretion of hormones, particularly progesterone, which can lead to slowed gastrointestinal motility and reduced tension. The speed of food transport may be slower than before pregnancy, resulting in prolonged gastric emptyin...[Read More] Pregnancy and Blood in Stool: Understanding Risks and Concerns
Understanding Colorectal Cancer: Changes in Stool and Symptoms to Watch
Hello, I would like to inquire about matters related to colorectal cancer? Hello, I would like to ask about the symptoms of colorectal cancer. One symptom is a change in the caliber of stools. I heard someone say that the end of the stool (the part that exits the anus last) is no...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: "The uniform size of a stool indicates a problem" is not a statement recognized in medicine. If fresh blood is found on toilet paper, and it is a small amount, one should consider issues around the anus, such as excessive wiping causing skin tears, hemorrhoids, a...[Read More] Understanding Colorectal Cancer: Changes in Stool and Symptoms to Watch