Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: Insights on IBS and Other Causes
Changes in bowel habits Hello, doctor. Two months ago, after a sudden urge to use the restroom, I noticed bright red blood coming from my anus a few hours later, similar to menstrual flow. Since then, I have not seen any blood (it was painless). I have previously tended to be con...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has many forms; some are primarily characterized by constipation, others by diarrhea, and some alternate between constipation and diarrhea. Severe diarrhea-predominant IBS may result in frequent bowel movements, sometimes worsening after...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: Insights on IBS and Other Causes
Chronic Left Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers and Diagnostic Options
Chronic unknown pain in the left abdomen? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing persistent pain in the area about the width of a palm under my left rib cage for approximately 2 to 3 years. I'm unsure whether the pain is related to my stomach or another organ. It is not seve...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to undergo an MRI at your own expense, as it has minimal radiation exposure and sufficient precision. Best wishes, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Chronic Left Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers and Diagnostic Options
Chronic Liver Abscess: Unresolved Symptoms and Treatment Challenges
Liver abscess that does not heal over a long period? Hello: My father is 72 years old. In mid-April, he began experiencing abdominal pain and sought treatment at an internal medicine clinic. An ultrasound indicated bowel gas, and after medication, the abdominal pain persisted. In...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Mr. Peter: Due to the complexity of the condition, I cannot provide specific recommendations. Fever of unknown origin is a challenging issue in medicine. Please cooperate with your physician to carefully monitor changes in your condition and adhere to the prescribed medication. D...[Read More] Chronic Liver Abscess: Unresolved Symptoms and Treatment Challenges
Understanding Frequent Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Frequent diarrhea? Hello Doctor: Recently, I've been experiencing a lot of work-related stress and have been going to the bathroom 2-3 times in the morning (diarrhea). However, once I surpass the duration of diarrhea without going to the bathroom, the symptoms tend to lessen...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mr. SUSU: After reviewing your case, your symptoms are more indicative of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This condition is commonly seen in younger individuals and is often related to stress. Some people experience the constipation subtype, others the diarrhea subtype, and ...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Colorectal Polyps: Family Risk and Management Questions
Colon polyp issues? Hello, doctor. My husband and I underwent a colonoscopy after 8 years of marriage. Our child is 7 years old. I am 28 years old, and my husband is 32. He has three polyps, two of which are hyperplastic, and one has been removed and tested, all measuring less th...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) can result in dozens or even hundreds of gastrointestinal polyps, which are typically adenomatous rather than hyperplastic. If a polyp is larger than 1 centimeter, removal is recommended. For patients with a history of polyps, it is adv...[Read More] Understanding Colorectal Polyps: Family Risk and Management Questions
Understanding Colorectal Adenomatous Polyps: Risks and Management
Colorectal adenomatous polyp My husband is 32 years old. During a health check-up, three polyps were found. Two of them are hyperplastic, and one was removed and tested, revealing it to be a tubular adenoma measuring 0.3 cm. I would like to ask the doctor: Is there a high risk of...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Generally, hyperplastic polyps do not undergo malignant transformation, and the risk of cancer in tubular adenomas is also low. However, if it is a villous adenoma, the risk of cancer is higher. If the polyp is removed and the pathological examination shows no cancer cells...[Read More] Understanding Colorectal Adenomatous Polyps: Risks and Management
Managing Chronic Diarrhea: Insights on Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Chronic bowel issues? I have been experiencing watery stools after every meal for several years. I recently underwent a colonoscopy, and the examination showed no abnormalities in my colon. The doctor diagnosed me with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). I have been taking medication...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (1) Dietary adjustments: reduce oil, dairy, and irritating foods (2) Medication adjustments: individualized prescriptions (3) Consider trying probiotics or enzymes. Best regards, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Heal...[Read More] Managing Chronic Diarrhea: Insights on Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Understanding Anal Symptoms: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Anal symptoms Hello, doctor! I would like to ask some questions. I have engaged in anal intercourse in the past, and recently I have started to notice itching around the anus, which comes and goes. I have also observed a white substance (similar to skin metabolic products). I was...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: You have seen a doctor, and there is generally no need to worry too much. However, if you still have discomfort or questions, you may visit a colorectal surgeon. Wishing you good health, Dr. Chen Chi, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Anal Symptoms: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Related Conditions
Questions about gastric ulcers? My first episode was at the emergency department of Min-Sheng Hospital (symptoms: chills, shivering, and weakness). After receiving IV fluids for one night, I went home. The second time, I went to the emergency department of Chang Gung Hospital (sy...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr. Su: Based on your symptoms, such as persistent chills and shivering, it may indicate an infection or a rheumatologic/immunological condition. Additionally, the accompanying weight loss could suggest a more serious underlying issue. It is advisable to promptly consult a ...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Related Conditions
Understanding Your Concerns About Colon Cancer: Expert Advice
Colorectal cancer concerns? Hello Doctor, in recent years I have been having bowel movements about 2 to 3 times a day, usually concentrated in the morning after waking up or around dinner time. Often, after having a bowel movement in the morning, I will have a second one about an...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, having more frequent bowel movements is noted. A colonoscopy has shown normal results, but it is advised to pay attention if there is blood in the stool. It is recommended to increase fiber intake to help form well-structured stools. If there is blood in the stool, an anos...[Read More] Understanding Your Concerns About Colon Cancer: Expert Advice
Identifying Blood in Stool: Signs of Colon Cancer and Next Steps
Blood in the stool? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have noticed blood streaks on the surface of my stool. How can I differentiate the blood associated with colorectal cancer? Is it mixed in with the stool? Does the entire stool appear tomato-colored? Or is it just blood on the surfac...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. Blood streaks or clots on the surface of stool indicate lower gastrointestinal bleeding, commonly associated with conditions affecting the rectum, anus, or sigmoid colon, such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, polyps, or tumors, with hemorrhoids being the most frequent c...[Read More] Identifying Blood in Stool: Signs of Colon Cancer and Next Steps
Understanding Digestive Changes: Stress, Sleep, and Bowel Health
Recently, my bowel movements feel unusual? Two weeks ago, my bowel movements were quite regular and formed well. Recently, however, I've been experiencing irregularities; although I still have daily bowel movements, they sometimes feel hard and small, resembling constipation...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, based on the situation, it is likely that anxiety and stress are causing gastrointestinal dysfunction. Consider that if everything was fine two weeks ago, it is unlikely that something could develop in the colon within that short period to cause a change in stool size; it ...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Changes: Stress, Sleep, and Bowel Health
Do I Need a Colonoscopy for My Ongoing Digestive Issues?
Is there a problem with the intestines? Do I need to undergo a colonoscopy? Hello, I am 21 years old and have been struggling with gastrointestinal issues for a long time. I started feeling something was off with my intestines around the age of 17 or 18 in high school, often expe...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello, Miss: This appears to be a typical case of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), characterized by alternating rapid (diarrhea, soft stools) and slow (constipation, narrow stools) bowel movements. As long as stool sample tests are normal and your weight is stable, there is no nee...[Read More] Do I Need a Colonoscopy for My Ongoing Digestive Issues?
Understanding Persistent Bloating: Dietary Tips and Medical Insights
My bloating has not improved? My bloating has not improved; what should I avoid eating? Response Date: 2010/12/07 Response from Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan Hospital: Hello, the discomfort on the left side of your abdomen near the navel is most...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
1. Loose stools associated with bloating may be due to intestinal inflammation. It is advisable to avoid greasy and irritating foods and to limit milk intake. 2. General bleeding is characterized by black stools, which can be abundant and may even appear as a black, tarry consi...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Bloating: Dietary Tips and Medical Insights
Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Worry About Colon Cancer
Changes in bowel habits? Hello: My father has experienced a change in bowel habits over the past month, increasing from once a day to twice a day. I would like to ask: 1. If the only change is an increase in frequency, is there a possibility of colon cancer or other issues? 2. Wh...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, early-stage colorectal cancer may be asymptomatic. Right-sided colon cancer may present with anemia, while left-sided colon cancer may manifest as changes in bowel habits, with stools becoming narrow and symptoms of bowel obstruction. Cancers of the sigmoid colon, rectum, ...[Read More] Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Worry About Colon Cancer
Left Abdominal Pain Near the Navel: Causes and Concerns
Sharp pain on the left side of the abdomen near the navel? I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and had a colonoscopy last year which revealed hemorrhoids. Currently, I am experiencing stomach pain and chest tightness. Occasionally, when I take medication, it feels like ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, you currently have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with left-sided abdominal pain near the navel, possibly due to muscle or pleural pain. Please pay attention to any changes in your skin. Your medication has been adjusted, and it i...[Read More] Left Abdominal Pain Near the Navel: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Foul Odors: What Your Stool Says About Your Gut Health
What about the smell of feces? I previously asked a question about gastroesophageal reflux, which has been ongoing for about three weeks (the doctor noted some bleeding from the photos). I am currently on medication. Since I live outside and the restroom provided is enclosed, wit...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, basically besides gastroesophageal reflux, the digestive function of the gastrointestinal tract is also poor. It is recommended to adjust your diet by reducing oil, dairy, irritating foods, and meat, which should help improve the symptoms. Wishing you good health. Dr. Chen...[Read More] Understanding Foul Odors: What Your Stool Says About Your Gut Health
Managing Severe Hiccups and Digestive Issues in Young Adults
Severe hiccups My daughter is 19 years old. From September last year to July this year, she has been preparing for her university transfer exams. She originally weighed 52 kg but has reduced to 44 kg, resulting in a low BMI (height: 162 cm). She has developed an aversion to meat,...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: Adjust your dietary habits to increase caloric and nutritional intake. Diarrhea is related to rapid peristalsis, so please avoid consuming oily and dairy products that can irritate diarrhea. In severe cases, stool tests or a colonoscopy may be necessary. Changhua Hos...[Read More] Managing Severe Hiccups and Digestive Issues in Young Adults
Understanding Prolonged Diarrhea: Signs of Potential Bowel Issues
Diarrhea I have been experiencing continuous diarrhea for almost two weeks. What could be the cause? About a month ago, my bowel movements started to be irregular, occurring two to three times a day. For the past two weeks, I have been having persistent diarrhea or watery stools,...
Dr. Huang Zhisheng Reply:
A light diet is recommended for diarrhea. It is advisable to visit a medical facility for evaluation by a physician, and if necessary, a colonoscopy may be performed to check for any colonic abnormalities.[Read More] Understanding Prolonged Diarrhea: Signs of Potential Bowel Issues
Understanding Lower Gastrointestinal Imaging: Concerns and Alternatives
Lower gastrointestinal series Hello, doctor. I am 42 years old. In the past, I used to have a bowel movement about once a day, mostly in the morning. However, in the past year or two, my bowel habits have changed to about 2-3 times a day, mostly in the morning but sometimes in th...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, currently, there is an increasing number of colorectal cancer patients in Taiwan, with a trend towards younger individuals being affected. Therefore, if symptoms persist, it is necessary to undergo examinations such as lower gastrointestinal imaging or colonoscopy. You can...[Read More] Understanding Lower Gastrointestinal Imaging: Concerns and Alternatives