Managing Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights from a Hepatobiliary Specialist
Gastrointestinal issues, please consult Dr. Ming-Hui? Hello Dr. Lin, I received your reply today. I have been experiencing some recent stomach issues and would like to report and inquire about them. I have consulted with a psychiatrist and a gastroenterologist (I have had an ultr...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, for a 48-year-old male with psychogenic gastritis, it is advisable to consume a gentle diet to prevent stomach cramps. Avoid greasy, overly sweet, cold, irritating, and hard-to-digest foods. Maintain a normal and balanced diet, eating three meals a day without rushing. Dur...[Read More] Managing Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights from a Hepatobiliary Specialist
Understanding Pain Under the Ribs: Liver or Gallbladder Issues?
Pain in the inner lower area of the left and right ribs? Hello, due to work-related socializing, I occasionally drink alcohol. Around the end of last year, I started to notice a soreness under the left and right ribs after drinking. My medical history includes mild gastritis, spe...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, a 40-year-old male is experiencing soreness in the inner area below the left and right ribs after drinking alcohol. The pain slightly improves when taking B vitamins or clam extract. An ultrasound shows fatty liver, with no significant gallstones or biliary issues. Long-te...[Read More] Understanding Pain Under the Ribs: Liver or Gallbladder Issues?
Occasional Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns Explained
Occasional sharp or cramping pain in the upper left abdomen? Since yesterday, I have been experiencing occasional sharp or cramping pain in the upper left abdomen near the rib cage, with varying intervals. I had an abdominal ultrasound two months ago, which showed mild fatty live...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further observation is recommended. If symptoms worsen or there is significant weight loss, consider further examination.[Read More] Occasional Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns Explained
Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: Diagnosis, Monitoring, and Concerns
Hepatic hemangioma issues? In August 2018, an abdominal ultrasound at the clinic revealed a 2.2 cm liver tumor, mild fatty liver, and a 0.4 cm gallbladder polyp. Tests for hepatitis B and C were conducted, and both liver function tests and alpha-fetoprotein (cancer marker) were n...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. Rarely increases. 2. Not often missed. 3. Common artifacts; please cooperate with follow-up.[Read More] Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: Diagnosis, Monitoring, and Concerns
Understanding Elevated GPT Levels: Should You See a Family Doctor?
Abnormal findings in health check report GPT? Hello Doctor, I recently received my employee health check report for October, which shows a GPT level of 38 (the report states normal range: 10-35). Five years ago, my GPT level was 21. I found that the normal range for GPT is below ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Follow up in three months. If overweight or diagnosed with fatty liver, prioritize weight loss.[Read More] Understanding Elevated GPT Levels: Should You See a Family Doctor?
Understanding Abdominal Sonography: Key Insights and Follow-Up for Liver and Gallbladder Health
Abdominal Sonography (Hepatobiliary Medicine), please analyze and note the follow-up precautions? 1. Liver: - Surface: 1. smooth ( ) 2. uneven (+) 3. nodular ( ) - Parenchyma: 1. homogeneous ( ) 2. heterogeneous (+) 3. coarse ( ) - Vessel: 1. smooth ( ) 2. blunt (+) 3. ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Basically, the examination shows only mild fatty liver, so there is no need to worry. Please discuss the details with your attending physician.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Sonography: Key Insights and Follow-Up for Liver and Gallbladder Health
Managing Fatty Liver and GERD: A Patient's Journey to Health
I have a question I would like to ask the doctor? Hello Doctor: I have had abnormal liver function since 2003. I do not smoke, drink alcohol, or chew betel nut, but I have always loved sugary drinks. In the past, I also frequently stayed up late, and I only exercised during physi...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. For those prone to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is advisable to pay attention to diet by reducing coffee intake, and limiting chocolate, spicy foods, and high-fat foods. 2. Helicobacter pylori is associated with chronic gastritis, gastrointestinal ulce...[Read More] Managing Fatty Liver and GERD: A Patient's Journey to Health
Chest Pain After Eating: Is It Related to Fish Bones?
Is there a correlation between left chest pain and fishbone ingestion? Hello Doctor: About a week ago, I had an eel rice bowl. At that time, I did not feel any sensation of something stuck in my throat or esophagus, and there were no unusual symptoms that night. However, the next...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Fishbone injuries to the gastrointestinal tract typically result in acute episodes requiring emergency treatment. A small number of elderly individuals may experience delayed onset due to swallowing difficulties or sensory impairment, but these cases are generally exceptions. If ...[Read More] Chest Pain After Eating: Is It Related to Fish Bones?
Should I Consider Paying for Hepatitis B Medication?
Do I need to actively pay for medication out of pocket? I took the antiviral medication Entecavir (0.5 mg) covered by the National Health Insurance for three years, from April 2015 to April 2018. During the treatment period, both my viral load and liver function showed significan...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The health insurance regulations for hepatitis B in Taiwan comply with world standard guidelines, so there is no need to worry about temporarily stopping medication. The key point is that regular monitoring is necessary (which can be time-consuming for working individuals) to det...[Read More] Should I Consider Paying for Hepatitis B Medication?
Understanding Elevated GPT and Indirect Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Concerns
Elevated GPT/indirect bilirubin slightly elevated? Over the past 10 years of regular health check-ups, my GPT/GOT/total bilirubin levels have all been within normal ranges, with GPT/GOT between 10-20. In August 2018, total bilirubin was first noted at 1.8 (with GPT/GOT around 20 ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The condition is somewhat different from others, but still poses no danger. It is recommended to continue monitoring at the same healthcare facility. Maintain a normal diet and avoid exposure to toxic volatile substances. Referral to a medical center should only be made if necess...[Read More] Understanding Elevated GPT and Indirect Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Fatty Pancreas: Insights from Abdominal Ultrasound
Fatty pancreas under ultrasound? Hello Doctor: The recent abdominal ultrasound report mentioned: 1. Liver mildly increased brightness (Fatty liver mild) 2. Increased brightness of pancreas. It was previously mentioned that increased brightness of the liver indicates that the live...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Increased brightness of the pancreas indicates that the pancreas is encased in fat, which necessitates attention to weight management and monitoring for potential excessive alcohol consumption. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Fatty Pancreas: Insights from Abdominal Ultrasound
Understanding Elevated Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Levels: Causes and Implications
γ-Glutamyltransferase A γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) level of 126 may indicate potential issues with the liver or bile ducts. Elevated GGT levels are often associated with alcohol consumption and the use of certain medications, but they can also be elevated due to other factors s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
This indicator may increase in fatty liver and other hepatobiliary diseases; it is for reference only and can be further monitored for comparison.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Levels: Causes and Implications
Understanding Milk Thistle in Liver Health: Benefits and Concerns
Regarding the ingredients of Silymarin liver protection capsules: Milk Thistle? Hello, doctor. I have some questions regarding Silymarin liver protection capsules. Question 1: I have hepatitis B and would like to know if this product containing milk thistle can be taken long-te...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, Hepatitis B is a viral hepatitis, and it is important to protect the liver by avoiding staying up late, not taking medications indiscriminately, and undergoing regular follow-ups. Currently, there are oral antiviral medications and long-acting interferon injections avail...[Read More] Understanding Milk Thistle in Liver Health: Benefits and Concerns
Understanding Elevated Total Bilirubin: Causes and Implications
Elevated total bilirubin? Hello doctor, the company's health check report shows a total bilirubin level of 2.8 mg/dL and a direct bilirubin level of 0.2 mg/dL, which is elevated. The abdominal ultrasound is normal, with mild fatty liver and a 0.4 cm stone in the right kidney...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
If there are no hematological disorders, it may be a congenital bile metabolism disorder.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Total Bilirubin: Causes and Implications
Does Antibiotic Use for Cold Affect Elevated r-GT Levels in Fatty Liver?
Does taking antibiotics for a cold affect elevated r-GT levels? Hello: My husband has alcoholic fatty liver disease (he is quite thin). When it was severe, many of his liver function tests were elevated, with triglycerides reaching 4000, which led to pancreatitis. After seeking m...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
There are many reasons for an elevated rGT index, including fatty liver, alcoholic liver disease, drug-induced hepatitis, and biliary tract diseases. Therefore, it is essential to assess the actual situation to clarify the underlying cause.[Read More] Does Antibiotic Use for Cold Affect Elevated r-GT Levels in Fatty Liver?
Understanding Liver Issues: High GPT Levels and Lifestyle Factors
Liver issues? Today, when I went to the hospital to check my lab results, my blood test showed a GPT level of 102, and I forgot the GOT value, but it was also above the normal range. The doctor mentioned that it is unlikely that this is solely due to lack of sleep. However, I do ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Based on the reported symptoms, the likelihood of fatty liver causing liver function abnormalities is high, indicating fatty liver disease. Elevated liver function tests can lead to fatigue, but this is not absolute.[Read More] Understanding Liver Issues: High GPT Levels and Lifestyle Factors
Understanding Liver Tumors: Ultrasound Findings and Next Steps
Ultrasound detected a liver tumor? Hello Doctor: I have never had an abdominal ultrasound before, but today I underwent one and found that I have mild fatty liver and a 2 cm tumor. The doctor initially believes it to be benign and mentioned that blood tests are needed. I would li...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Based on the current information provided, it is not possible to make a determination. If blood tests show positive for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or elevated tumor markers, you would be considered at high risk, and further evaluation with a CT scan or MRI is recommended. C...[Read More] Understanding Liver Tumors: Ultrasound Findings and Next Steps
Understanding Fatty Liver in Children: Concerns and Solutions
Liver issues? Hello, doctor: I have a son who is currently in the fifth grade. The school arranged for a blood test, and it was found that he has fatty liver disease. His liver enzyme levels have not improved, and even after taking liver-protective medication from the hospital, t...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, please visit the Hepatobiliary outpatient clinic at the hospital to confirm the cause and treatment direction. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver in Children: Concerns and Solutions
Understanding Elevated GPT Levels: Causes and Next Steps for Liver Health
Elevated liver enzymes? Hello Doctor: I have regular health check-ups, but my GPT levels have consistently been abnormal, ranging from 50 to 80, while my GOT levels are normal. An ultrasound examination showed mild fatty liver. There are no other abnormalities, and I do not drink...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Based solely on the ultrasound results, fatty liver can potentially lead to liver inflammation. 2. It is recommended to maintain a light diet, control weight, engage in moderate exercise, and avoid using unproven remedies. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated GPT Levels: Causes and Next Steps for Liver Health
Understanding Increased Brightness in Pancreas Ultrasound Reports
Abdominal ultrasound report inquiry? Hello Dr. Chen: Due to a benign tumor in my liver, I have been undergoing annual abdominal ultrasounds for monitoring. I reviewed the reports from the past two years and found a description regarding the pancreas that states: "Pancreas In...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. Yes, there is also fatty pancreas. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Increased Brightness in Pancreas Ultrasound Reports