Which Doctor to See for Frequent Stomach Pain: Gastroenterology or Family Medicine?
If you have stomach pain, you should see a gastroenterologist? Hello, Dr. Tsai. I've been experiencing frequent stomach pain lately, and my diet has been normal without any significant changes. I feel pain both when I don't eat and after meals, and occasionally I have a...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist. You should avoid consuming tea, coffee, carbonated beverages, fried foods, glutinous rice products, high-fat, and high-protein foods. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Which Doctor to See for Frequent Stomach Pain: Gastroenterology or Family Medicine?
Understanding Hard Lumps in the Lower Abdomen: Causes and Concerns
There is a hard mass in the lower abdomen? I usually notice that my lower abdomen is particularly protruding when I stand (but I am not overweight; I am relatively slim at 163 cm and 47 kg). However, when I assume a push-up position, that part of my belly seems to drop down, as i...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, you can ask a physician to perform a visual or physical examination to differentiate between adipose tissue, lipomas, or fecal matter (which can be felt in thin individuals). You may consult a family medicine physician, a general internist, or a gastroenterologist at the M...[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps in the Lower Abdomen: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Abdominal and Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Help
Bilateral flank pain after abdominal pain? Hello: I have recently experienced abdominal pain symptoms, with mild cramping-like pain on both sides of the lower abdomen. Deep breathing or pressing around the navel causes a cramping sensation. I also feel cramping on both sides of m...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: You may apply local heat compresses and then observe the changes in your spasms. Additionally, you can schedule an appointment with the Gastroenterology Department (or Family Medicine Department) to assess any changes in your condition. Changhua Hospital cares about ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal and Lower Back Pain: When to Seek Help
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and Insights
Gastrointestinal issues I have been experiencing a slight tingling sensation above my navel for the past 2-3 days, which is most noticeable when I lie down to sleep. Prior to today, my stool was somewhat clay-like, but this morning it resembled intestines, with a color that is ea...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. Abdominal discomfort and changes in stool color may be related to diet, intestinal sensitivity, or gastroenteritis. 2. During the summer, it is important to pay attention to food hygiene, wash hands frequently, consume clean food, and limit spicy foods to maintain in...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and Insights
Understanding Hepatitis B Antibodies: Vaccine Response and Risks
Regarding Hepatitis B antibodies Hello, Dr. Tsai. I would like to ask you a question. I received the hepatitis B vaccine when I was young, but I remember that during a health check in fifth grade, I tested negative for antibodies. About three years ago, I went to a family medicin...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Adolescents are often found to have lost their hepatitis B antibodies during health check-ups. This occurs because the immune memory generated by the hepatitis B vaccine administered at birth gradually fades due to the immune system not being stimulated by viral antigens o...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Antibodies: Vaccine Response and Risks
Understanding Esophageal Discomfort: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Esophageal discomfort issues? Hello, doctor. Recently, I often feel a sensation of choking while eating, as if food is getting stuck in my esophagus before it slowly digests. I consulted a family medicine physician nearby, and he suggested elevating my pillow while sleeping. Afte...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: The symptoms of esophageal cancer and esophagitis can sometimes be difficult to distinguish. Esophagitis is more likely to present with odynophagia (painful swallowing), while esophageal cancer often manifests as dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). In any case, undergoing a...[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Discomfort: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Persistent Cough for Months: When to Seek Medical Evaluation?
Coughing every month? Doctor, I have been coughing continuously for the past 3 to 4 months. I went to a general clinic and was told it was just a cold. However, I tend to cough for about a month each time. Do I need to get an X-ray or any other tests?
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Persistent coughing over a long period can be caused by various factors including the common cold, chronic bronchitis, asthma, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is recommended to consult with a pulmonologist, general internist, or family medicine physician for...[Read More] Persistent Cough for Months: When to Seek Medical Evaluation?
Understanding Elevated SGPT Levels and Hepatitis B Antibody Testing
Liver dysfunction Hello, Doctor: 1. Regarding my serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) level, which is 57 (reference range 0-55), if it is only slightly above the normal range by 2, is it likely that this is just a minor elevation in liver enzymes? 2. I have already vi...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The antibodies produced by the hepatitis B vaccine are not permanently effective. Research indicates that some individuals who received the hepatitis B vaccine at birth may not have detectable hepatitis B antibodies by adolescence and may even lose immune memory. If antibo...[Read More] Understanding Elevated SGPT Levels and Hepatitis B Antibody Testing
Understanding Fetal Protein Levels in Hepatobiliary Health Management
Fetal protein Hello Doctor: I have been taking Baraclude for six months, but my fetal protein level has increased from 6.X to 8.89! Does this mean my condition is not well controlled? I will be returning to Taoyuan in July; can I schedule an appointment with you for consultation ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. The use of oral antiviral medications can improve liver function, liver enzyme levels, and reduce viral load. Reports indicate that taking Baraclude for 3 to 5 years can improve fibrosis. If the medication is taken for only six months, any improvement can be assessed ...[Read More] Understanding Fetal Protein Levels in Hepatobiliary Health Management
Why Can't I Gain Weight? Understanding Gastrointestinal Health Issues
No matter how much I eat, I can't gain weight? Hello, doctor. I am currently about 175 cm tall and weigh only 62 kg. I eat a lot, and I can gain about 1 to 2 kg, but after a few days, I immediately return to my original weight. I would like to ask if this indicates a gastroi...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The ability to eat without gaining weight is related to dietary habits, gastrointestinal function, psychological factors, work, stress, and exercise. You may consult general internal medicine, family medicine, gastroenterology, nutrition, or metabolism specialists. Wishing...[Read More] Why Can't I Gain Weight? Understanding Gastrointestinal Health Issues
How to Check for Parasites in Your Body: Symptoms and Testing Options
I would like to know if there are any parasites in my body? If you suspect that you may have a parasitic infection, it is advisable to visit a healthcare provider, specifically a gastroenterologist, who specializes in digestive system disorders. They can conduct a comprehensive e...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. If there are unidentified objects in the stool and you are concerned about parasites, you can visit a hospital and consult with a gastroenterologist, general internist, or family medicine physician to have your stool examined for the presence of eggs and parasites. 2. T...[Read More] How to Check for Parasites in Your Body: Symptoms and Testing Options
Severe Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers and Solutions
Severe pain in the upper left abdomen? Hello Dr. Chen, my father is 54 years old and experienced severe pain in the upper left abdomen (near the bottom of the left rib cage towards the center) which led him to seek medical attention at the hospital a month ago. During this time, ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: If you have undergone the above-mentioned CT scan and still have no results, the possibility of neuropathic pain seems to be high. You may consider visiting the neurology department at your original hospital. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan G...[Read More] Severe Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers and Solutions
Navigating Digestive Issues: Where to Start with Gastroenterology?
I don't know which specialty to start with? I have been experiencing various health issues lately and I'm unsure where to start. I would like to ask the doctors for a simple assessment of which problems should be prioritized for treatment. 1. I often feel like there i...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: If you have multiple health issues and are unsure which specialty to consult, you may start with general internal medicine or family medicine. Based on your description of gastrointestinal and rectal problems, it is advisable to see a gastroenterologist and a colorectal sp...[Read More] Navigating Digestive Issues: Where to Start with Gastroenterology?
Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Dull pain in the left side of the abdomen? Hello, Dr. Lin. I have been experiencing a dull pain in the left side of my abdomen, approximately one hand's breadth to the left of my navel, just below the rib cage. This has been ongoing for about 2 to 3 months. About 2 months ag...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Left abdominal pain may have several possible causes, including esophageal and gastrointestinal diseases, organic issues such as inflammation or ulcers, and functional disorders like pancreatic, liver, or gallbladder diseases. Systemic conditions such as diabetes and vascu...[Read More] Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Is Unintentional Weight Loss a Sign of Health Issues?
I would like to ask some questions? I would like to ask, my friends say that I am getting thinner, but I eat normally. I also go to bed very late at night. Should I be concerned that something is wrong with my body?
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: If you are experiencing weight loss, it is advisable to measure your weight to determine if there has been a decrease. Possible reasons for weight loss include reduced food intake, poor absorption, and increased energy expenditure. Are you going to bed very late at night, ...[Read More] Is Unintentional Weight Loss a Sign of Health Issues?
Unexplained Lump Above Belly Button: What You Need to Know
There is a lump between the chest and the abdomen? Recently, I suddenly discovered a lump about 13 centimeters above my navel that feels similar to a small egg. I'm not sure if it has been there before. It doesn't hurt when I press on it. Could you please tell me what t...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, to determine whether the issue is related to a subcutaneous mass or protrusion of the costal cartilage, it is recommended to consult a general internist or family medicine physician. Wishing you good health. Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Unexplained Lump Above Belly Button: What You Need to Know
Understanding Gallstones: When to Seek Medical Advice?
The troubles of gallstones? In April 2009, I experienced abdominal pain, and during an upper abdominal ultrasound, the doctor unexpectedly found one gallstone and one kidney stone. However, the doctor mentioned that they were very small, so it wasn't a concern. In February 2...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: You may be able to undergo laparoscopic stone removal surgery for treatment. It is advisable to avoid a diet high in fats to prevent triggering pain. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Gallstones: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Severe Bloating and Constipation: Seeking Solutions for Digestive Distress
Severe bloating to an unusual extent? Hello Dr. Lin, Since middle school, I have been experiencing excessive gas, sometimes passing over a hundred times a day, which has been quite distressing (and I'm a girl, too). I apologize to all my classmates sitting behind me. Additi...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, the causes of bloating are often related to food, such as legumes, carbonated beverages, cereals, and grains. It may also be associated with constipation and swallowing air while eating. Young women tend to experience bloating more frequently due to constipation. It is rec...[Read More] Severe Bloating and Constipation: Seeking Solutions for Digestive Distress
Understanding Right Rib Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist
What is wrong with me, doctor? Doctor: This condition has been present for about 5 years. Recently, there have been frequent episodes of sharp pain below the right rib cage, which makes it difficult to breathe (inhaling causes pain). Occasionally, there is also pain on the left s...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, the possible causes include neuropathic pain, liver and gallbladder diseases, and gastrointestinal disorders. You may consult with a general internist, family medicine physician, or gastroenterologist. Wishing you good health. Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan Hospital, Department...[Read More] Understanding Right Rib Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist
Understanding and Managing Colonic Cramps: When to Seek Help
Colon cramping Hello! I would like to consult a doctor. I experience intermittent cramps in my colon (I believe), and it feels like the cramps extend to my rectum. During these cramps, whether sitting, standing, or walking, it is very painful, and there is also pain and a burning...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, based on the symptoms, it appears to be a case of gastrointestinal spasms. Generally, structural issues in the stomach or intestines should be ruled out first; if none are found, it would be classified as a functional disorder. If it is a functional issue, dietary adjustme...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Colonic Cramps: When to Seek Help