Understanding White Foamy Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
The stool has white foam? I have only been eating vegetables and no meat for the past few days. On the first day, my stool was loose and scattered with many small white bubbles. On the second day, my stool was normal and formed. On the third day, my stool was again loose and scat...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Miss Hsiao-Wen: The symptoms you are experiencing are primarily digestive and are not related to colorectal cancer (which is characterized by blood in the stool). If dietary adjustments do not alleviate the symptoms, you may consider taking medications that enhance digestio...[Read More] Understanding White Foamy Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Chronic Constipation: Seeking Solutions for Digestive Health Issues
Chronic constipation? Hello Doctor: Since middle school, I have not had normal bowel movements. In middle school, I would go once a month. I later consulted doctors, but they only prescribed me stool softeners and laxatives, which did not improve my condition. I underwent a proce...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Previous doctors were not wrong! Your peristalsis is too slow (extremely slow) and may have reached a pathological state. Medication and enemas are both standard treatment methods, and improvements can be made with dietary and lifestyle changes (it is recommended to have at least...[Read More] Chronic Constipation: Seeking Solutions for Digestive Health Issues
Understanding White Mucus in Stool: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer?
White mucus in stool? Having white mucus in your stool for three consecutive days, along with the presence of mucus during flatulence, can be concerning. While these symptoms can be associated with various gastrointestinal issues, they are not definitive indicators of colorectal ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Miss Hsiao-Wen: It is likely indigestion (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). You mainly need to adjust your diet and medication; it is not colon cancer (which includes blood in the stool). Please rest assured. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shih-Tien[Read More] Understanding White Mucus in Stool: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Signs and Concerns for Your Health
What are the gastrointestinal issues? Hello, Dr. Lin. I am someone who often eats out and usually have greasy takeout for my meals. I typically have a bowel movement once a day. I do not smoke or drink alcohol. In the past, I would often experience stomach pain right after breakf...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. The consistency of stool is related to diet; consuming greasy foods can lead to diarrhea, while increasing the intake of vegetables and fruits to boost fiber can result in more formed stools, which does not necessarily indicate disease. 2. Symptoms of colorectal cancer ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Signs and Concerns for Your Health
Understanding Colorectal Cancer Symptoms: What to Watch For
What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer? Hello Dr. Liu, I would like to ask you about my mother. Recently, she went to the hospital for a colonoscopy due to rectal bleeding, but only hemorrhoids were found. However, her symptoms are somewhat similar to those of colorectal can...
Dr. Liu Nanshan Reply:
Colorectal cancer does not have specific symptoms; the symptoms you mentioned are all possible. Clinically, rectal bleeding (which must be distinguished from hemorrhoidal bleeding) is common, and chronic iron deficiency anemia is the most frequent presentation. Since your mother’...[Read More] Understanding Colorectal Cancer Symptoms: What to Watch For
Unexplained Left Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Next Steps
There is a sensation of a foreign body in the left abdominal area? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a question: About two years ago, I started experiencing a sensation of something foreign (possibly related to the kidney?) on the left side of my back, near the end of the rib ca...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
You are experiencing abnormal bowel movements, but feel more comfortable after passing gas, along with symptoms of abdominal burning. The most common cause could be irritable bowel syndrome. Given your family history of colorectal cancer, it is advisable to test your stool for oc...[Read More] Unexplained Left Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Constipation: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Health
Constipation I often do not have the urge to have a bowel movement, but I frequently pass gas. Sometimes, I go several days without a bowel movement. Is there something wrong with my body?
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Possible causes of irregular bowel movements: 1. Dietary factors: abnormal intake of fluids and fiber. 2. Functional gastrointestinal disorders, irritable bowel syndrome. 3. Structural issues in the pelvic region of the colon: hemorrhoids, pelvic floor dysfunction, rectal prolaps...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Health
Understanding External Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
I only notice external hemorrhoids when I have a bowel movement! What should I do? I'm really worried? Hello Dr. Lin: I have been experiencing external hemorrhoids for about 5.6 months, which only occur during bowel movements or when I exert pressure on my abdomen. The most ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Ou: It appears that you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (commonly referred to as dyspepsia, which can lead to diarrhea during times of stress) combined with external hemorrhoids. Generally, no special examinations are necessary. However, if surgical treatment is required ...[Read More] Understanding External Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Acute Anal Fissure Surgery: Duration, Risks, and Recovery
Acute anal fissure surgery? Hello, doctor. I consulted you yesterday about my anal fissure issue. I apologize for asking again, but if surgery is necessary, how long does the procedure take? Are there any risks involved? How long does it take to heal? I’m sorry for bothering you,...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Anal fissures require the assistance of a colorectal surgeon. Acute anal fissures typically do not require surgical treatment, as 90% of patients can heal with conservative measures. A high-fiber diet, stool softeners, and adequate hydration can improve bowel habits and prevent c...[Read More] Understanding Acute Anal Fissure Surgery: Duration, Risks, and Recovery
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms and Causes
Gastrointestinal discomfort issues? Hello Doctor: For the past two days, I have been experiencing pain on the left side of my abdomen near the navel, along with cramping in my intestines and bloating in my stomach. Although there are occasional discomforts, I do not have diarrhea...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
It may be Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): The following relevant information is provided: Clinically, Irritable Bowel Syndrome can present with three main categories of symptoms: (1) Chronic intermittent diarrhea, typically without abdominal pain. Diarrhea often occurs in the mor...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms and Causes
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?
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 Bowel Issues: Irregular Stools and Abdominal Discomfort
Issues related to bowel movements? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have noticed some abnormalities during bowel movements and would like to consult you: 1. For about two months, my stools have been irregular in shape (they no longer form the typical cylindrical shape and sometimes rese...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
It may be Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): The following relevant information is provided: Clinically, Irritable Bowel Syndrome can present with three main types of symptoms: (1) Chronic intermittent diarrhea, which generally occurs without abdominal pain. Diarrhea often happens i...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Irregular Stools and Abdominal Discomfort
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
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Gastrointestinal Health
Hematochezia Hello, I have been experiencing constipation since middle school, typically having a bowel movement about once a week. In recent years, I have occasionally relied on laxatives to help with bowel movements. There was one instance where I did not have a bowel movement ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: There are various causes of bloody stools, with common ones including colitis, hemorrhoids, and colorectal cancer. Based on your medical history, unless there is a family history of colitis and you are over 50 years old, the likelihood of colorectal cancer is extremely low...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Digestive Issues: Is Your Gut Health at Risk?
Abdomen Each time I have a bowel movement, the stool is somewhat loose but still somewhat formed. I'm not sure if this is related to drinking yogurt or if my intestines are unable to absorb moisture. I always feel the urge to go, but I can't seem to pass much, and I don...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Xiao-Wen: This is one of the manifestations of irritable bowel syndrome, which is quite common and not harmful to health, but can be uncomfortable. Please discuss dietary adjustments (low in fats and lactose) and appropriate medication with a gastroenterologist. Changhua Ho...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Is Your Gut Health at Risk?
Chronic Diarrhea: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
What should I do if I have persistent diarrhea? Hello, Dr. Lin! I have been experiencing diarrhea for over a year, but it's not daily. However, I have episodes every two to three days (when it's better), and every time I eat, I get stomach pain and rush to the bathroom!...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. There are many causes of diarrhea, including dietary factors (such as unclean or greasy foods), intestinal inflammation, and the presence of growths in the intestines (such as polyps or tumors), as well as biliary and pancreatic diseases. Early-stage cancer may not pres...[Read More] Chronic Diarrhea: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and Self-Care Tips
The discomfort of bloating? Dear Dr. Yuan, I have been experiencing occasional bloating symptoms for the past six months, but recently the symptoms have become more severe. Here are the details: 1. Timing: After meals or just before bedtime. 2. Bloating symptoms: Gas often gets...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: Bloating can be caused by organic factors such as ulcers, intestinal obstruction, or issues related to the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, or endocrine system. It can also be due to functional problems, such as poor motility caused by stress, anxiety, or panic, or dietary fa...[Read More] Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and Self-Care Tips
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 Chronic Diarrhea: When to Seek Further Medical Advice
Diarrhea Hello Dr. Yuan: For the past month, my gastrointestinal health seems to be poor... I often experience diarrhea... However, when I palpate my abdomen, I do not feel any pain. I saw a doctor who diagnosed me with gastroenteritis... I took medication and followed a light di...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: The most common causes of diarrhea are gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome, or side effects from diet or medications. If there is no blood in the stool, weight loss, anemia, family history of colorectal cancer, or worsening symptoms, it is advisable to relax, maintai...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Diarrhea: When to Seek Further Medical Advice