Understanding Rectal Bleeding After Painkillers: Hemorrhoids or More?
Every time I take painkillers, I notice blood in my stool? Hello, I used to experience rectal bleeding after taking painkillers. Later, I consulted a proctologist who diagnosed me with internal hemorrhoids and prescribed topical medication for me. After some time, I didn't h...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Rectal bleeding can be caused by excessive straining during bowel movements or relaxation of the vascular tissue in the anal area, leading to anal fissures or hemorrhoids. It may also indicate colorectal cancer or the presence of polyps. Patients often experience significant pain...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding After Painkillers: Hemorrhoids or More?
Understanding Occasional Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns
In the past six months, there have been occasional episodes of bloody stools, lasting a maximum of two days? Hello Dr. Chen, this is Jason. I have a question I would like to ask you. Recently, I have been experiencing occasional rectal bleeding over the past six months. The frequ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Jason: It is still recommended to undergo a colonoscopy to determine the cause of the rectal bleeding. Please visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Occasional Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Blood in Stool: Understanding Gastrointestinal Health Concerns
Blood in the stool? I have been experiencing gastrointestinal issues for over two months. My recent health check report indicated that everything is normal except for elevated total bilirubin levels (CEA is normal). However, this afternoon, I noticed blood in my stool; the blood ...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Blood in the stool, when accompanied by no anal pain, is mostly due to hemorrhoidal bleeding. If blood in the stool causes anal pain, it is likely due to anal fissures. Occasional blood in the stool should raise concerns about hemorrhoids first, followed by tumors (polyps or canc...[Read More] Blood in Stool: Understanding Gastrointestinal Health Concerns
Understanding Digestive Issues: Is It Duodenal Ulcer or Something More?
Could this situation be related to an intestinal issue? Hello, Dr. Chen. I have had a history of frequent diarrhea since childhood, with occasional constipation (at most one day). In mid-May, I experienced a sensation of needing to have a bowel movement while sitting, but I was u...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Xiao Luo: The symptoms described are mild issues related to the digestion and bowel movements of the large intestine (and small intestine). You may want to discuss with your physician whether a colonoscopy is necessary (you could start with a stool test and adjust your med...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Is It Duodenal Ulcer or Something More?
Post-Meal Urgency: Understanding Digestive Issues After Abdominal Surgery
It is common to feel the urge to have a bowel movement after meals? Dear Dr. Lin, Hello, I would like to ask a question on behalf of my father. Thank you for taking the time to respond. My father has been experiencing issues since he underwent surgery for peritonitis nine years ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. Frequent urges to use the restroom after meals, along with difficulty in bowel movements, can be influenced by factors such as previous abdominal surgeries leading to intestinal adhesions, dietary habits, medications, age-related gastrointestinal function decline, and r...[Read More] Post-Meal Urgency: Understanding Digestive Issues After Abdominal Surgery
Can Long-Term Digestive Issues Affect Heart Health?
Chronic gastrointestinal issues can potentially impact heart health. Conditions such as chronic inflammation, malnutrition, and stress associated with gastrointestinal disorders may contribute to cardiovascular problems. Additionally, certain gastrointestinal diseases can lead to...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, A-Qun: For the younger population, most do not have severe illnesses. If there are no obvious symptoms like weight loss, many can see improvements with medication and lifestyle adjustments. Please be patient and seek medical care. Changhua Hospital cares about your health....[Read More] Can Long-Term Digestive Issues Affect Heart Health?
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Symptoms and Next Steps
Left lower abdominal pain? Hello, doctor. For the past few weeks, I've been experiencing intermittent pain in my lower left abdomen (near the navel), especially after falling asleep, although the pain is within tolerable limits. It occurs about three to four times a day. I h...
Dr. Liu Nanshan Reply:
Having irregular bowel movements, with periods of constipation followed by diarrhea, and symptoms that come and go, indeed resembles irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Another important characteristic of IBS is that abdominal discomfort or pain occurs before bowel movements and impr...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Symptoms and Next Steps
Can Hemorrhoids Be Treated Without Surgery? Common Concerns Explained
Is it possible to treat hemorrhoids without surgery? Hello, about a year and a half ago, I visited a doctor for an anal fissure. It seems he performed an endoscopic examination where I lay on my side and he inserted the endoscope (I think he also inflated it, which made my abdome...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. Endoscopic examinations are classified based on the length of insertion, including anoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and colonoscopy. 2. Stool should not be too hard, and avoid straining during bowel movements to reduce the risk of anal fissures. 3. If hemorrhoids are confirmed,...[Read More] Can Hemorrhoids Be Treated Without Surgery? Common Concerns Explained
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: When to Seek Medical Attention
Rectal bleeding Hello Doctor: Recently, I've been experiencing blood after bowel movements. It's not just on the toilet paper; the water in the toilet bowl turns red. This has happened before, but it was only a small amount of blood on the toilet paper. However, recentl...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Blood in the stool, with previous colonoscopy showing no issues, may be caused by hemorrhoidal bleeding, anal fissures, benign colorectal polyps, or tumors. If bleeding occurs frequently, it is advisable to seek medical attention and avoid irritating foods. Constipation an...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: When to Seek Medical Attention
Digestive Issues in Seniors: Understanding Causes and Treatment Options
Digestive Issues in the Elderly Dr. Chen: Hello! My mother is 80 years old and has had a very sensitive gastrointestinal system in recent years. If she accidentally eats even a small amount of oily or cold food, she immediately experiences diarrhea. The variety of foods she can e...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Albert: Please visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic to have your stool examined, and consider undergoing a colonoscopy to confirm the cause. Additionally, use medication for control and avoid oily foods and dairy products. Changhua Hospital cares about your health, ...[Read More] Digestive Issues in Seniors: Understanding Causes and Treatment Options
Identifying Unusual Objects in Stool: Possible Causes and Concerns
I found something unusual during bowel movement? Hello Doctor: Today, I noticed a long object about ten to fifteen centimeters in length that was the same color as my stool during a bowel movement. I'm not sure what it is; could it be a sign of ascariasis? Until now, I have ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: If the linear objects are moving, they may be intestinal parasites, and it is recommended to take an anthelmintic medication. If they are not moving, they could simply be food residues. Ascaris lumbricoides are white and typically do not pass with stool. If there is no bow...[Read More] Identifying Unusual Objects in Stool: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Digestive Issues: A Guide for Concerned Family Members
Is there a problem with the intestines? Dear Doctor: My mother is 57 years old and has had difficulty with bowel movements since she was young. She cannot have a regular bowel movement at the same time every day. Over ten years ago, she underwent surgery for hemorrhoids. In the p...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: If constipation has persisted for over a decade without symptoms such as rectal bleeding, weight loss, or anemia, it is likely due to functional constipation caused by abnormal colonic motility. Insufficient lipid intake is not likely to cause difficulty in bowel movements...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: A Guide for Concerned Family Members
Understanding Intermittent Digestive Issues: Causes and Solutions
Intermittent dyspepsia Hello, doctor. I have two questions to ask you: A. For the past month, I have frequently experienced bloating. The symptoms include feeling full after eating just a little, and sometimes if I eat a bit more, my stomach feels very distended, and I feel nau...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: 1. If there is no weight loss, anemia, or gastrointestinal bleeding, and the symptoms fluctuate, it is most likely functional dyspepsia. I recommend that you relax, avoid irritating and hard-to-digest foods, temporarily refrain from drinking milk, and engage in more phys...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Digestive Issues: Causes and Solutions
Is CA72-4 a Reliable Cancer Marker? Understanding Your Test Results
Is CA74-4 really important? Hello, Doctor. Six months ago, I experienced stomach discomfort and blood tests revealed a Helicobacter pylori level of 132. The gastric cancer screening showed CEA at 0.93 and CA19-9 at 4.54, but CA72-4 was slightly elevated at 8.51 (normal value <...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: 1. Both gastric biopsy and breath tests have good sensitivity for detecting Helicobacter pylori. If both tests are negative, it is unlikely that there is an active Helicobacter pylori infection, unless you have recently taken antibiotics or proton pump inhibitors. If ser...[Read More] Is CA72-4 a Reliable Cancer Marker? Understanding Your Test Results
Understanding Chronic Constipation: Causes and Concerns for Seniors
Chronic fecal impaction Hello, my father is 60 years old and has been suffering from chronic constipation. He has tried taking enzyme powder to improve the situation, but there has been no significant effect, and his stools are always thin. He may not drink enough water, but he d...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Xiao Feng: 1. Constipation is a common condition, and as long as the colonoscopy results are normal, it does not pose a health risk (though it may cause discomfort). You may consult a gastroenterologist to adjust your bowel medications, which should help alleviate the di...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Constipation: Causes and Concerns for Seniors
Understanding Red Streaks in Stool: Should You Be Concerned?
Bowel issues? Hello, doctor! Recently, I have frequently noticed some light red, tomato skin-like substances in my stool. Sometimes there is more, sometimes less. Since it is light red, I am not sure if it is blood in my stool. Could there be an issue with my intestines?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mr. B, Please visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic to have your stool examined, and then consider whether to proceed with a colonoscopy. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Sincerely, Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Red Streaks in Stool: Should You Be Concerned?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Digestive Health and Treatment
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor: Since January of this year, my bowel movements have not been normal. Each time I have a bowel movement, there are many undigested food particles, and the shape is quite abnormal. I have also noticeably lost weight and feel easily fatigued. My...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: If there is a significant weight loss (more than 10% of the original body weight) but appetite remains good, it may be necessary to consider hyperthyroidism or diabetes. If diarrhea is also present, issues related to small intestine absorption or pancreatic digestion shoul...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Digestive Health and Treatment
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Seeking Answers for Unexplained Symptoms
Gastrointestinal discomfort? I am a 44-year-old male, and since July of last year, I have been experiencing the following symptoms: dull pain in the upper left abdomen (between the ribs and the navel, but pressing on it does not cause pain), bloating (gas is expelled both from th...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: I would like to know if you experience frequent bowel movements, have large stool volume, or if your stools are oily and float on the water's surface. If so, it may be necessary to consider issues related to the small intestine or pancreas, and further examination of ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Seeking Answers for Unexplained Symptoms
Understanding Chronic Diarrhea: When to Seek Medical Attention
I have been experiencing frequent diarrhea lately? Hello Doctor: My sister has been experiencing diarrhea intermittently (2 to 5 times a day) for the past month or two, and at times she has normal bowel movements (soft, formed stools). I would like to know if this situation is co...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: Diarrhea can have many causes, including medications, diet, alcohol consumption, endocrine issues, and gastrointestinal problems. If there is a family history of colorectal cancer, weight loss, age over 50, or positive fecal occult blood test, it is recommended to undergo ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Diarrhea: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Yellow Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
The color of stool? Hello, doctor: This morning when I had a bowel movement, I noticed that the color of my stool was yellow (light yellow) and there were small particles attached to the stool, with a small amount of blood present. Could you please tell me what this condition mig...
Dr. Li Zhengqi Reply:
Hello, Are: Please collect an abnormal stool sample about the size of a grain of rice and bring it in a clean, sealed plastic container to the hospital's gastroenterology outpatient clinic to determine if further colonoscopy is needed. Changhua Hospital cares about you, Chen...[Read More] Understanding Yellow Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice