Is It Colon Cancer? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Is this colorectal cancer? Hello Doctor: Since I started seventh grade, I have often experienced incomplete bowel movements, or I feel the urge to go but cannot. Sometimes, I also have diarrhea. Recently, I noticed a soft lump near my anus, but it is not painful. However, I do fe...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello, Hannah: If you are feeling unwell and are concerned, it is advisable to see a physician for evaluation or examination. Director Cai Jin-ji of the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department at Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Is It Colon Cancer? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Bowel Issues: Anxiety, Diet, and Gastrointestinal Health
Bowel issues Hello Doctor: I am 28 years old and have a history of anxiety. I do not smoke or drink, and there is no family history of colorectal cancer. I had previously interrupted my medication, but I resumed taking it (Lianyou, Mijing, Sibilai) on October 6. My question is ab...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr. Hsiao-Kang: Based on your condition, it seems you may have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). You should consult a physician and arrange for a colonoscopy. If the results are normal, it will provide you with more peace of mind. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Anxiety, Diet, and Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Colorectal Adenomas: Risks, Treatments, and Follow-Up Care
Colonoscopy and colorectal adenoma? I would like to ask the doctor, I underwent a colonoscopy due to a family history and found two adenomas and one polyp. One of the adenomas was larger and required hemostatic agents. I will review the report next week. Doctor, if the colon aden...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If the pathological examination shows that the adenoma is non-cancerous, it can be removed, and regular colonoscopy follow-ups should be conducted (the frequency depends on the individual case).[Read More] Understanding Colorectal Adenomas: Risks, Treatments, and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Gastrointestinal function issues Hello, doctor. Last week, I visited a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and am currently taking herbal medicine for my health. I have a habit of staying up late, which has affected my gastrointestinal function. Recently, I have been troubl...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is simply irritable bowel syndrome; just maintain a balanced diet with smaller portions, low oil, and low dairy. If necessary, gastrointestinal medications can be used for management.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Digestive Issues: Constipation and Bowel Concerns in Teens
Bowel-related issues? Hello, doctor. I apologize for the interruption. I am currently eighteen years old, but I often struggle with intestinal issues. Specifically, I experience the following: 1. In certain situations (such as during exams or classes), I have symptoms of abdomina...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
1. In certain situations (such as during exams or classes), there may be symptoms of abdominal bloating and borborygmi, along with a sensation of needing to defecate, which could indicate irritable bowel syndrome. The intestines may be more sensitive. 2. Although there is a consu...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Constipation and Bowel Concerns in Teens
Understanding Abnormal CA19-9 Levels: Next Steps for Patients
Abnormal CA 19-9 levels, inquiry about follow-up consultation methods? Hello Doctor, About three weeks ago, I went to the hospital for a self-paid health checkup. Due to my menstrual period, I first underwent abdominal/pelvic/breast ultrasound, and a week later, I completed blo...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
CA 19-9 cannot be used for diagnosis due to a very high rate of false positives; its interpretation depends on the individual physician's perspective. The principle is that if there are no specific tumors found during health screenings, one can feel reassured. It would be ad...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal CA19-9 Levels: Next Steps for Patients
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation and Abdominal Pain
Bowel issues, fecal problems, gastrointestinal issues? Hello doctor, recently I've been feeling something unusual with my gastrointestinal system. I've been having difficulty with bowel movements; I can barely pass gas or release a small amount of mucus, and sometimes I...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Symptoms resembling constipation. It is recommended to adjust your diet, change your lifestyle, relax your mind, and engage in moderate exercise. In terms of diet, it is advisable to increase the intake of fruits and vegetables to boost fiber and fluid consumption. Regarding life...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation and Abdominal Pain
Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Seek Help for Bowel Problems
Bowel issues? Hello Doctor, I am an eighteen-year-old high school student. I have been experiencing gastrointestinal issues, often feeling bloated and having abdominal sounds. Sometimes I suffer from constipation, while at other times my stools are loose. Recently, I have noticed...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Mr. Weng: It is recommended that you go to the hospital for an in-person evaluation and treatment by a physician. Director Cai JinjI of the Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology at Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Seek Help for Bowel Problems
Understanding Increased Bowel Movements: Concerns and Insights
Increased frequency of bowel movements? Hello Dr. Chen, In the past, I had a bowel movement about 1 to 2 times a day. Recently, due to elevated blood sugar and cholesterol levels, I have been taking medications to lower them. Additionally, I have started to eat more fruits regul...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A fecal occult blood test can be performed first. The follow-up interval depends on individual circumstances and the physician's workload, typically ranging from 1 to 3 years. The precursors to colorectal cancer often take more than 5 to 10 years to develop.[Read More] Understanding Increased Bowel Movements: Concerns and Insights
Understanding Chronic Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
Persistent discomfort below the navel? Hello Doctor: I have gastroesophageal reflux disease and have been under treatment with medication for over a year, primarily using traditional Chinese medicine. My TCM physician mentioned that I have signs of gastritis, as I experience shar...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If the fecal occult blood test is normal, it is still possible to have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Medical consultation and adjustments to lifestyle and dietary habits may be necessary.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Solutions
Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Alternating diarrhea and constipation? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask a question. I was previously diagnosed with moderate fatty liver disease, and since then I have started exercising. However, since I began exercising, I have frequently experienced alternating constipation a...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Dear Mr. Anonymous: I am unsure how long you have been experiencing this situation. If you have changes in bowel habits accompanied by abdominal pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention for evaluation by a physician. Dr. Cai Jin-ji, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroen...[Read More] Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Bowel Symptoms: Mucus in Stool and Other Concerns
Bowel movement concerns? Hello doctor, last week I had a frequent urge to have a bowel movement for 2 to 3 days, but initially, I only passed gas and very little stool. After taking the antidiarrheal medication prescribed by the doctor, my bowel movements started to normalize, bu...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It appears to be normal mucus from the colon, further observation is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Symptoms: Mucus in Stool and Other Concerns
Understanding Elevated CEA Levels and Low AST: Key Concerns and Next Steps
Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) issues and AST issues? Hello, doctor. I have no history of smoking, but I recently received a report indicating that two indices from my company health check last month were abnormal: carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was elevated at 5.6 ng/ml, and liv...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A low AST level is likely due to low muscle mass rather than a disease. The interpretation of a high CEA level can vary among physicians; it is advisable to consult an oncologist. Strategy 1 is to undergo a comprehensive examination at your own expense, while Strategy 2 is to mon...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CEA Levels and Low AST: Key Concerns and Next Steps
Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Tests and Gastrointestinal Health Concerns
Body issues such as fecal occult blood problems, etc? Hello, doctor. In April, I underwent a quantitative immunochemical fecal occult blood test conducted by the National Health Administration. I have a fear of having colorectal cancer, so I thought it would be wise to start with...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Fecal occult blood testing is not 100% accurate; it is merely a screening tool. For further confirmation, a colonoscopy may be necessary. If colorectal cancer is suspected, a colonoscopy (which examines the entire colon) is the most accurate method. You can consult a gastr...[Read More] Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Tests and Gastrointestinal Health Concerns
Changes in Bowel Habits: Understanding Symptoms and Risks
Changes in bowel habits and other symptoms? The family has a history of colorectal cancer. Three weeks ago, bowel movements suddenly increased from once a day to three times a day, concentrated in the evening within an hour. There is a sensation of incomplete evacuation after def...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. Thank you.[Read More] Changes in Bowel Habits: Understanding Symptoms and Risks
Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Concerns
Abdominal bloating For the past two and a half months, I have been experiencing bloating in the upper left abdomen. When lying down and tapping on the upper left abdomen, I can hear sounds, while there are no abnormal sounds on the right side. When standing, I particularly feel t...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to visit the outpatient clinic for evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
Fecal occult blood Hello, doctor. I recently had a fecal occult blood test (immunochemical) and the result was less than 7, which is negative. Does this mean everything is fine? I have a question regarding the sample collection; I used the stick to dig into the stool, but I heard...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It's normal, so there's no need to worry for now.[Read More] Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms, Concerns, and Possible Causes
Bowel issues Hello Doctor, I am 18 years old. Recently, I have been feeling bloated and have the urge to have a bowel movement, but I am unable to pass stool or only produce small, pellet-like stools. Last week, there was a day when I noticed light red blood around my stool, and ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further observation is possible; if there is too much concern, a stool occult blood test can be performed.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms, Concerns, and Possible Causes
Understanding Abnormal Liver and Pancreatic Function Test Results
Health check report red text Hello Dr. Lin: During the recent company health check, the ultrasound technician mentioned that my liver appeared somewhat coarse and discovered a liver cyst (0.43 cm). The doctor advised me to undergo additional blood tests for liver function. After ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
The diagnosis of acute pancreatitis involves several steps: First, assess for symptoms such as abdominal pain and postprandial back pain. Second, identify any risk factors such as gallstones, bile duct stones, alcohol consumption, and hyperlipidemia. Third, evaluate biochemical t...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Liver and Pancreatic Function Test Results
Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms, Concerns, and Insights on IBS
Intestinal issues? Hello Doctor, recently I have been experiencing a sensation of incomplete bowel movements. Sometimes, I have to exert myself to pass out thin stools, but there is no blood. Today, my stool was normal, well-formed, and brown, but there was some water with it. I ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is normal for the colon to contain some moisture or mucus, so there is no need to worry too much. If a colonoscopy is necessary, it can be performed under sedation to alleviate discomfort and pain. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Symptoms, Concerns, and Insights on IBS