Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Persistent Diarrhea and Discomfort
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Dr. Yuan, I hope you are doing well. I would like to ask you a few questions amidst your busy schedule. For the past month, I have been experiencing diarrhea and have visited the hospital multiple times. Initially, the doctor suggested it might be ga...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: I would like to know if you have experienced any blood in your stool, weight loss, fever, anemia, or a family history of colorectal cancer. If none of these apply, it is more likely that you are experiencing irritable bowel syndrome following gastroenteritis. However, othe...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Persistent Diarrhea and Discomfort
Understanding Bowel Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Issues
Bowel discomfort? Recently, I have been experiencing difficulty with bowel movements, but it is not constipation. I have a large appetite, yet my stool volume has decreased (I have daily bowel movements) and I always feel like I am not completely emptying my bowels. It takes a lo...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: If there is no family history of colorectal cancer and symptoms such as weight loss and bleeding are present, it may still be caused by abnormal intestinal motility. I recommend drinking plenty of water, eating more papaya, bananas, and vegetables, and increasing physical ...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Issues
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
Should You Get Another Colonoscopy After Removing a Polyp?
Should a colonoscopy be performed? Two years ago, after a fecal occult blood test during a community health screening, I underwent a colonoscopy which revealed a small polyp that was removed. The doctor advised me to return for another colonoscopy in a year, but I haven't go...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Candy: If there is a family history of colorectal cancer, regular surveillance of the colon is recommended for early detection and treatment. For individuals without any risk factors, surveillance can be done every five years after initial normal results. In the meantime, a...[Read More] Should You Get Another Colonoscopy After Removing a Polyp?
Understanding Your Digestive Discomfort: Is It IBS or Colon Cancer?
Colorectal diseases Hello, my condition has been feeling strange in my abdomen since last year. I have undergone a colonoscopy, which indicated some minor internal hemorrhoids, but I still feel a persistent bloating and discomfort in my stomach. I also experience frequent flatule...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: Your symptoms are more indicative of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). At 21 years old, if there is no family history of colorectal cancer, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is very low. Additionally, since you have undergone a colonoscopy and no polyps or tumor...[Read More] Understanding Your Digestive Discomfort: Is It IBS or Colon Cancer?
Is My Constipation and Blood in Stool a Sign of Colon Cancer?
Could this be a sign of colorectal cancer? Hello, Dr. Yuan. I have had a habit of constipation since childhood (approximately once a week). There is also a family history of colorectal cancer (in third-degree relatives). Currently, I have bowel movements every two to three days, ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, the pain during bowel movements accompanied by fresh blood is more likely to be caused by hemorrhoids or injury to the anal mucosa due to hard stools. If the stool is black (not deep brown) and you have not consumed iron supplements, pig's blood, or cuttlefish ink noo...[Read More] Is My Constipation and Blood in Stool a Sign of Colon Cancer?
Chronic Constipation: When to Consider Another Colonoscopy?
Intestinal weakness and constipation? Hello, Dr. Lee... I have been experiencing constipation for 2 to 3 years. Two years ago, I underwent a colonoscopy and a barium X-ray examination, both of which were normal. The doctor prescribed laxatives, but I can only have a bowel movemen...
Dr. Li Zhengqi Reply:
Hello Yuan Yuan: The indications for a colonoscopy generally follow certain guidelines. It is recommended to undergo the examination if any of the following conditions are present: 1) Bleeding (including blood in stool or positive fecal occult blood test) 2) Family history of col...[Read More] Chronic Constipation: When to Consider Another Colonoscopy?
Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test: Concerns and Next Steps
Occult blood reaction Hello Doctor: 1. Recently, I underwent a check-up and found a positive fecal occult blood test. The doctor recommended further colonoscopy, and he prescribed medication for me, but I am afraid of pain and worried about getting sick. Will taking the medicat...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Reply: Hello, 1. A positive fecal occult blood test indicates the presence of blood components in the gastrointestinal tract, which may be due to gastrointestinal bleeding or the ingestion of food containing blood. However, certain foods or medications can cause false positives...[Read More] Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test: Concerns and Next Steps
Understanding Changes in Stool Shape: Causes Beyond Colon Cancer
Issues with stool shape? Hello, I have experienced a significant amount of bright red blood during bowel movements. Recently, over the past two months, I have noticed that my stools have become thinner and softer (although I have often had loose, mucoid stools in the past). I hav...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, the narrowing of stools can be related not only to colorectal cancer but also to the consistency of the stool, the peristalsis of the colon, and the tone of the anal sphincter. At the age of 35, with no family history of colorectal cancer, the likelihood of developing colo...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool Shape: Causes Beyond Colon Cancer
Is It Hemorrhoids? Understanding Rectal Symptoms and Concerns
Could this be hemorrhoids? Hello, doctor! Two weeks ago, I noticed that the shape of my stool had become flat, and I experienced some difficulty during bowel movements (requiring slight straining). After researching online, most of the information pointed towards colorectal cance...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Nicholas, Your symptoms are more related to anal and rectal conditions such as internal hemorrhoids. You may receive treatment with suppositories or ointments from a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist. Wishing you good health. Best regards, Chen Shidian[Read More] Is It Hemorrhoids? Understanding Rectal Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Abnormal Bowel Movements: When to Seek Medical Advice
I would like to inquire about bowel movement issues? Hello, Dr. Lin. I would like to ask you a question on behalf of my boyfriend. He usually has a regular bowel movement in the morning, but recently he has been experiencing a second bowel movement about half an hour after the fi...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. Each person's bowel habits and frequency vary. An increase in bowel movements can sometimes be related to diet, emotions, lifestyle, or inflammation. Your boyfriend has a history of gastrointestinal issues and has undergone surgery, so it is advisable for him to ...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Bowel Movements: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Hemorrhoid Surgery: Key Questions and Insights
Hemorrhoids Hello Dr. Lin, I apologize for bothering you! I would like to inquire about information regarding hemorrhoid surgery. I previously had an examination at Taipei Hospital and was diagnosed with internal hemorrhoids, which cannot be reduced manually and require surgery ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Reply: Hello, 1. The hospitalization duration is approximately 2 to 3 days. 2. After the surgery, there will be pain around the anus for about 2 weeks. The time to return to normal work varies by individual, and the nature of the job, particularly whether it involves frequent ...[Read More] Understanding Hemorrhoid Surgery: Key Questions and Insights
Is It Colon Cancer? Understanding Symptoms and Diagnostic Tests
Is this colorectal cancer? Hello Doctor: Recently, I've been troubled by something. My girlfriend suspects she has colon cancer. She mentioned that for a while now, despite eating a lot, her bowel movements are infrequent and thin, sometimes accompanied by blood, and at time...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, I am not sure how old your girlfriend is, but generally, individuals in their 20s without a family history of colorectal cancer have a very low risk of developing it. In young people, the presence of blood in the stool is mostly due to hemorrhoidal bleeding. The best metho...[Read More] Is It Colon Cancer? Understanding Symptoms and Diagnostic Tests
Blood in Stool: Understanding Potential Causes and Concerns
Blood in the stool? Hello Doctor: On September 6th, after having a bowel movement, I noticed that the toilet was filled with blood, and there was a bit of blood on the toilet paper after wiping. I have been having regular bowel movements every day, so I thought I would wait a day...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, the presence of blood in the stool may indicate anal or rectal conditions. Common causes include hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammation, tumors, and diverticula. It is recommended to consult a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist for further examination. Sincerely,...[Read More] Blood in Stool: Understanding Potential Causes and Concerns
Understanding Blood in Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice
Questions Regarding Examinations After Rectal Bleeding Hello Doctor: I am 23 years old and have no family history of colorectal cancer. On July 9th, I noticed blood in my stool, which was yellow and the blood was bright red. Although there was no bleeding the following day, I was...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, the presence of blood in your stool on July 9 could be due to hemorrhoidal bleeding or mucosal bleeding caused by hard stools. If you have already undergone a sigmoidoscopy and no significant lesions were found, there is no need for excessive concern. If you are not experi...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Mucus in Stool and Its Implications for Digestive Health
Mucus and shape of feces? Hello: Five years ago, after a cesarean section, I developed polyneuropathy, which has not fully healed (about 90% recovery). However, for the past three years, I have occasionally experienced bloating or excessive stomach acid, and my stools sometimes h...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, the shape of bowel movements can vary for each individual at different times. It is normal to occasionally have harder, softer stools, or stools with mucus. Based on the patient's description, it aligns with a diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). However, I am...[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool and Its Implications for Digestive Health
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Regarding hematochezia? Hello Dr. Chen, I have been experiencing rectal bleeding since I was about 24 years old. Initially, it occurred about once or twice a year, with only a small amount of blood on the toilet paper. However, over the past year and a half, the frequency of the...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, to determine whether you have a tumor, it is not possible to make assumptions based solely on the presence of blood in the stool. Therefore, I recommend that you visit a gastroenterology or colorectal surgery clinic to arrange for an examination (colonoscopy) to rule out t...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Dietary Recommendations for Gastrointestinal Issues: Addressing Dark Stool and Fatigue
What are the dietary recommendations for gastrointestinal disorders? My boyfriend is 24 years old and has a habit of eating meat, pickled foods, barbecued items, and smoked foods. He sometimes drinks a few beers with friends. Recently, for over a week, his stool has been dark and...
Dr. Su Baojia Reply:
A diet that habitually includes meats, pickled, char-grilled, and smoked foods contains nitrates, which are reduced to nitrites by bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. These nitrites can then form nitrosamines, which may be carcinogenic. It is essential to maintain a balanced ...[Read More] Dietary Recommendations for Gastrointestinal Issues: Addressing Dark Stool and Fatigue
Understanding Ascites: Causes, Risks, and Connections to Cancer
What is major water pollution, and what is its severity? Doctor, I'm not clear about medical issues, so when I heard about significant ascites in the abdomen, I was filled with a lot of questions. Why is there a lot of fluid in the belly, and could this indicate advanced can...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, in healthy individuals, there is typically very little ascitic fluid present in the abdominal cavity, and it is not detectable on ultrasound. Therefore, the presence of abdominal fluid indicates an underlying issue, which could be related to the liver, kidneys, heart, or p...[Read More] Understanding Ascites: Causes, Risks, and Connections to Cancer
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pressure: Possible Causes and Concerns
There is a feeling of pressure in the lower left abdomen? In September, my routine health check showed no abnormalities in my stool. Recently, I tested my stool again, which showed no occult blood, but there were red blood cells present. Could this indicate a tumor? I have not ex...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, the stool test shows no occult blood reaction, but there are red blood cells present. This could indicate minor bleeding near the anal area, such as from hemorrhoids. Overall, it seems less likely to be a sign of colorectal cancer. However, if you continue to experience pa...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pressure: Possible Causes and Concerns