Understanding Yellowish-White Stool: Causes and Concerns
Issues with Stool Color Recently, during a bowel movement, a portion of the stool was yellowish-white, while the rest of the stool was of normal color. The odor was the same as usual, and my diet has been consistent. Three months ago, a health check revealed mild fatty liver.
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Should remain normal, can continue to observe.[Read More] Understanding Yellowish-White Stool: Causes and Concerns
Low Amylase Levels: Causes and Management for Digestive Health
What should I do if my amylase levels are low? Hello, doctor. During my health check-up, I found that my amylase level is only 20. What could be the possible reasons for this, and what should I do next? I have issues with being overweight and moderate fatty liver, but I don'...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Still within normal range, unrelated to weight and other factors.[Read More] Low Amylase Levels: Causes and Management for Digestive Health
Understanding Newly Detected Liver Nodules: Causes and Next Steps
Hypoechoic liver nodule Hello, due to mild fatty liver and gallbladder polyps, I have been undergoing abdominal ultrasound follow-ups every six months at the clinic. There is no evidence of hepatitis B or C. During my last visit in October, the doctor noted two liver nodules (one...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The shadow of fatty liver may just be an artifact, and experienced gastroenterologists can often make this determination, but further follow-up is still necessary for confirmation.[Read More] Understanding Newly Detected Liver Nodules: Causes and Next Steps
Is a Fetal Protein Index Above 10 Abnormal? Insights on Liver Health
Report index issues? Is a fetal protein index higher than 10 considered abnormal? I have undergone ultrasound and CT scans, and a doctor has performed a testicular examination, indicating mild fatty liver. There are no signs of hepatitis B or C, and there are two calcification po...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If this has been the case for a long time (rather than a gradual increase), it may be an individual constitution and is generally not concerning.[Read More] Is a Fetal Protein Index Above 10 Abnormal? Insights on Liver Health
Understanding Elevated Fetal Protein Levels: Next Steps for Liver Health
The fetal protein index is elevated? In September of this year, I underwent a comprehensive physical examination with the following results: GOT/31, GPT/61.8, R-GT/66, AFP/13.3. Based on the report, I was advised to go to the hospital for further evaluation. In early October, the...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to discuss further with the attending physician, including screening for testicular cancer.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Fetal Protein Levels: Next Steps for Liver Health
Understanding Your Abdominal CT Report: Key Insights for Liver and Heart Health
Abdominal CT scan report Hello, doctor! Due to urinary issues, I underwent an abdominal CT scan, and the report highlighted the following two points. I would like to ask what I should pay attention to and how to improve these conditions: 1. Chronic liver parenchymal disease with ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The liver shows no significant issues. The enlargement of the heart will be evaluated by a cardiologist.[Read More] Understanding Your Abdominal CT Report: Key Insights for Liver and Heart Health
Managing Elevated Liver Function: Concerns and Dietary Strategies
Liver function indices are not decreasing significantly? I am a carrier of hepatitis B, and recently my liver enzyme levels have risen to 185. I have been taking Bixikang for a month, taking it before each meal, but my enzyme levels have only decreased by 10. My doctor mentioned ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There are no liver-protective medications covered by health insurance available for exchange; if willing, you can pay out of pocket for hepatitis B antiviral medication for 3 years or more. Regular food has no significant impact, but it is advisable to avoid traditional Chinese m...[Read More] Managing Elevated Liver Function: Concerns and Dietary Strategies
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 Brown and Yellow Cloudy Urine: Causes and Concerns
Cloudy tea-colored urine? Hello Doctor, I have recently noticed brown and yellow urine during urination. When I observe it in the toilet, the brown and yellow urine appears to be mixed together, and I am a bit worried that it might indicate a serious issue, such as pancreatic can...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The chances are slim, so there's no need to worry. Drink plenty of water and continue to monitor the color. You can also check if the whites of the eyes have turned yellow.[Read More] Understanding Brown and Yellow Cloudy Urine: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Fatty Liver: Severity, Management, and Treatment Options
Fatty liver disease issues? Hello, I would like to ask about my blood test results. My GOT levels are 60 and 123. Would you consider this to be mild or moderate? How can I improve this? Would increasing exercise and losing weight help return my levels to normal? Would taking Schi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
First, exclude hepatitis B and C. Reduce caloric intake by 10%, specifically by decreasing starches/carbohydrates. Increased physical activity is beneficial and can help prevent weight regain. There are no foods that specifically aid in weight loss or fatty liver; only a low-calo...[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver: Severity, Management, and Treatment Options
Understanding Low Amylase Levels: Impacts and Management
Low amylase levels Hello, during my health check-up, it was found that my amylase level is low; the normal range is 29-103, and mine is 19. An abdominal ultrasound showed mild fatty liver, but the report did not recommend any follow-up at the hospital. Could you please explain wh...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
It is recommended to bring your health check report to a consultation with a family medicine or gastroenterology clinic. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Low Amylase Levels: Impacts and Management
Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks and Prevention Strategies
Hepatitis B-related issues Hello, Doctor. I recently learned that a family member is a carrier of hepatitis B. I haven't had a health check-up in over a year and I'm not aware of the viral load or other conditions; I only know that I have fatty liver. However, I do not ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Hepatitis B is transmitted through the entry of blood or bodily fluids containing the Hepatitis B virus into the body via the skin or mucous membranes. Transmission routes include blood transfusions, injections, hemodialysis, acupuncture, tattoos, eyebrow tattoos, ear pier...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Transmission Risks and Prevention Strategies
Understanding Barrett's Esophagus: Treatment Options and Expert Guidance
Please advise on the active treatment options for Barrett's esophagus? Dear Dr. Chen, I am a 41-year-old male, 174 cm tall and weighing 90 kg. My past medical history includes peptic ulcer disease and irritable bowel syndrome. Currently, I have moderate fatty liver disease,...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to start medication and follow up with an endoscopy in one year, and then consider endoscopic treatment if necessary. In Taiwan, this is not commonly practiced; patients must go to a medical center for a complete preoperative evaluation, and decisions will be ma...[Read More] Understanding Barrett's Esophagus: Treatment Options and Expert Guidance
Understanding Black Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Black stool issue Hello Doctor: Since last year, I have noticed black mucus in my stool that is not mixed with the feces. However, the explanations I found online only mention "entirely black stools" or "blood separated from stool," and there is no explanation...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist, who will determine whether to arrange for a fecal occult blood test or further colonoscopy. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Black Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
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
Managing Elevated T-Bilirubin: Insights for Liver Health
Laboratory report: T-bilirubin 1.41 is elevated. What are the next steps for management? The liver surface is rough (for several years) with no evidence of hepatitis A, B, or C, and no signs of metabolic syndrome. GOT is 21, GPT is 22, and there are no symptoms such as pain. Bowe...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is still within the normal range of fluctuations, so there is no need to worry.[Read More] Managing Elevated T-Bilirubin: Insights for Liver Health
Understanding PIVKA II Levels in Liver Cancer Screening: What You Need to Know
Inquiry about liver cancer tumor marker testing? Hello Doctor, I recently had a health check-up and my liver cancer tumor marker PIVKA II value was 34, which is highlighted in red. However, the ultrasound examination only showed mild fatty liver. Could you please advise if this v...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Normal values (<40) should not be a cause for concern.[Read More] Understanding PIVKA II Levels in Liver Cancer Screening: What You Need to Know
Understanding Abdominal Tightness and Pain: Causes and Solutions
Abdominal pain with a feeling of tightness? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing abdominal discomfort for a long time, and recently it has intensified. I feel tightness in the right side of my abdomen, as if something is being squeezed inside. Sometimes, the area around my stom...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please discuss with an immunologist or gastroenterologist whether there is an autoimmune enteritis and consider medication and dietary adjustments.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Tightness and Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Abdominal Tightness and Pain: A Gastroenterology Perspective
Abdominal pain with a feeling of tightness? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing abdominal discomfort for a long time, and recently it has intensified. I feel tightness in the right side of my abdomen, as if something is being squeezed inside. Sometimes, the area around my sto...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please discuss with an immunologist or gastroenterologist whether there is an autoimmune enteritis and consider medication and dietary adjustments.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Tightness and Pain: A Gastroenterology Perspective
Understanding Hypoechoic Areas in the Liver: What Does It Mean?
The abdominal ultrasound report indicates "suspected hypoechoic area in the liver, possibly due to fat." Hello Dr. Lin! During today's health check-up, I came across the term "hypoechoic area in the liver suspected to be a fat-deficient area" in the abdom...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
In the presence of fatty liver, the liver cells contain lipids, resulting in ultrasound images that appear as hyperechoic areas compared to the kidneys. However, the distribution of fat can sometimes be uneven, with normal areas that are not infiltrated by fat appearing relativel...[Read More] Understanding Hypoechoic Areas in the Liver: What Does It Mean?