Understanding Medication Differences for Gastrointestinal Issues: A Patient's Guide
Medication issues I recently consulted two doctors regarding my symptoms, which are consistent with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Doctor A prescribed me Duspatalin (for IBS), digestive enzymes, and an anti-flatulence medication. Doctor B prescribed magnesium oxide and Clelax (f...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello: They are all for bowel movements/digestion. If there are frequent recurrences, a long-term prescription can be issued as necessary. Irritable bowel syndrome is related to individual constitution/diet and requires long-term management.[Read More] Understanding Medication Differences for Gastrointestinal Issues: A Patient's Guide
Should You Continue Taking Probiotics for Digestive Health?
Should you take probiotics? Hello, doctor. I have been taking probiotics for four days. When I am not taking probiotics, I often feel the urge to have a bowel movement, but I can't always go. Occasionally, my stomach makes gurgling sounds (similar to flatulence). Additionall...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Probiotics can alter the gut microbiota by replacing harmful bacteria with beneficial ones, thereby improving the intestinal environment. If you find them helpful, continue taking them; if not, you can stop or switch to another brand. There is no definitive good or bad, an...[Read More] Should You Continue Taking Probiotics for Digestive Health?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Distress: Causes and Solutions for Bloating
Gastrointestinal bloating issues Around September to October last year, I started having bowel movements three times a day, which were somewhat formed but also breaking apart, and I experienced a sensation of needing to go but not being able to. I visited a nearby small hospital ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Further tests should be conducted to rule out other possibilities, and it is important to patiently cooperate with the physician's treatment and make lifestyle adjustments.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Distress: Causes and Solutions for Bloating
Understanding Black Specks in Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice
Black specks or flecks in stool? Hello Doctor: I am a 26-year-old male and have been experiencing gastroesophageal reflux and upper gastrointestinal issues for the past two weeks. I have sought medical attention and am currently taking medication for ulcers and enzymes. I have al...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, there is mild pressure in the lower left abdomen. The abnormal dark color of the stool may be related to the food consumed. An abnormal stool can be evaluated through a stool test to check for any issues; if abnormalities are found, further examination is necessary. Anxiet...[Read More] Understanding Black Specks in Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice
Loss of Appetite for Two Weeks: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues Explained
I haven't had much of an appetite for the past two weeks? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my situation. I haven't had much appetite for the past two weeks. Although I occasionally feel hungry, I get full after eating just a little. I still feel hungry at night, ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is likely caused by rapid intestinal peristalsis. There are many reasons that can lead to increased intestinal motility, including bacterial or viral infections, irritation from spicy foods, and even emotional factors. If there is no improvement, it is advisable to cons...[Read More] Loss of Appetite for Two Weeks: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues Explained
Changes in Stool Shape: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer?
The stool has changed from long to short? Hello, doctor. Before March, I used to have large and long stools. However, after experiencing gastroenteritis, I became concerned about the shape of my stools and started to frequently feel the urge to have diarrhea. I have health anxiet...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Not related to colorectal cancer, can be monitored further.[Read More] Changes in Stool Shape: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer?
Understanding Green Stool: Causes, Concerns, and Solutions
Green or dark green stool with a sticky consistency? Hello Doctor: I have been taking iron supplements for six months due to gynecological issues that caused anemia. At that time, my stool was dark green. However, after stopping the supplements, my stool has remained green or dar...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Hello! The consumption of iron supplements, vitamins, multivitamins, or a diet high in carbohydrates and dark green vegetables can lead to stools appearing dark green. If these dietary and medication factors have been ruled out and the issue persists, it is advisable to consult a...[Read More] Understanding Green Stool: Causes, Concerns, and Solutions
Understanding Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Is Colon Cancer a Concern?
Gastroenterology, bowel sounds Hello Doctor, I am 25 years old and was diagnosed with food poisoning on March 10. Since then, I have had a persistent urge to have bowel movements, going once to three times a day, accompanied by loud bowel sounds and a continuous sensation of gast...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Miss Youyou: Based on your description, if your symptoms have resolved, the likelihood of colorectal cancer is lower. However, if you still have concerns, it is advisable to consult your physician to determine if further examinations are necessary. Director Cai JinjI, Depar...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Is Colon Cancer a Concern?
Understanding Foul Gas: When to Seek Medical Advice for Digestive Issues
Questions related to flatulence? Hello Doctor, I have recently (within the past week) started experiencing very foul-smelling flatulence, and the frequency has noticeably increased compared to the past. I pass gas during the day, and sometimes I wake up at night having done so as...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Everyone's timing is different; generally, individuals with faster intestinal motility may have bowel movements within a few hours after eating, while some people may take 2-3 days or more. 2. Pay attention to your diet, reducing oil, meat, and legumes. Changhua Ho...[Read More] Understanding Foul Gas: When to Seek Medical Advice for Digestive Issues
Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Right upper quadrant pain? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing a mild dull pain in my upper right abdomen for over a year now. It occurs every 1-2 days, usually about 6 hours after eating, lasting around half an hour to an hour. During these episodes, I feel bloating and pain ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The upper right abdomen is indeed the location of the gallbladder, but it could also be related to peptic ulcers or the colon. Additionally, it may not necessarily be an issue with the organs; sometimes it can be influenced by dietary habits or irritating foods. It is reco...[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Chronic Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Is It a Gallbladder Issue?
Persistent dull pain in the lower right abdomen for more than one year, occurring periodically? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a mild dull pain in my lower right abdomen for over a year now, which occurs every 1-2 days, usually about 6 hours after eating. The episodes las...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Not related to the gallbladder (which is located in the right upper abdomen); it may be an issue with digestive motility. If still concerned, a fecal occult blood test can be performed first.[Read More] Chronic Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Is It a Gallbladder Issue?
Understanding Stomach Ulcers and IBS: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Gastric ulcer issues? Hello Doctor: In early January of this year, I experienced abdominal pain and bloating, so I underwent a gastroscopy, which revealed that I had a gastric ulcer and gastritis. The colon only had benign polyps. I was prescribed a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) fo...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, after improvement of the gastric ulcer, abdominal pain and bloating still occur daily, and there are occasional episodes of constipation and flatulence. For gastric ulcers and gastritis, it is important to pay attention to diet: avoid eating too quickly and refrain from co...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Ulcers and IBS: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Post-Ulcer Complications: Understanding Ongoing Abdominal Pain and Bloating
Issues Following Gastric Ulcers Hello Doctor: In early January 2021, I noticed persistent abdominal bloating and pain, so I went to the hospital for a gastroscopy, which revealed a gastric ulcer and inflammation. The colon only had benign polyps. After taking the PPI medication p...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Hello Jack: You report persistent abdominal bloating and pain. After undergoing colonoscopy and gastroscopy, you still experience abdominal pain and bloating. You later visited a clinic and received treatment for irritable bowel syndrome, but the results were unsatisfactory. You ...[Read More] Post-Ulcer Complications: Understanding Ongoing Abdominal Pain and Bloating
Understanding Increased Gas and Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes
Abdominal bloating with increased flatulence? In the past week, I have experienced a feeling of bloating in the left side of my abdomen, specifically to the left of my navel. There is no pain, but I have noticed an increase in flatulence. When lying down, I can hear bowel sounds....
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: A 29-year-old male presents with a feeling of bloating in the left abdomen, increased flatulence, bowel sounds, and bowel movements 3-4 times a day, with blood noted on toilet paper. Possible causes include gastroenteritis or hemorrhoidal bleeding. It is advised to pay att...[Read More] Understanding Increased Gas and Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes
Is It Cancer? Understanding When to Get a Colonoscopy
Could it be cancer? Is a colonoscopy necessary? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing abdominal bloating for the past five months, along with persistent belching and flatulence (each episode involves a significant amount of gas). I have sought medical attention numerous times du...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Is a colonoscopy necessary? It is recommended to be determined by a clinical physician. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Is It Cancer? Understanding When to Get a Colonoscopy
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Bowel Health and Diet
Gastrointestinal issues Hello, doctor. Due to the lockdown caused by the pandemic, since October, I have been experiencing bowel movements 2-3 times a week. The first one is usually normal (Bristol Stool Type 4), while the second one is diarrhea (Bristol Stool Types 5-6). This oc...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Hello Mr. Hsiao: You reported that your bowel habits and frequency have been unstable recently, and you are concerned about the risk of cancer? The risk of colorectal cancer is usually associated with age, a diet high in red meat, smoking, a family history of polyps, and a family...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Bowel Health and Diet
Understanding Rectal Discomfort: Is It Just Anxiety or Something More?
Is there something unusual about the anus? Could it be a feeling of tenesmus? Hello, doctor. I apologize for bothering you. Since the start of the school year, I have been experiencing gastrointestinal issues. Initially, I had diarrhea every few days, and both traditional and Wes...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Colorectal cancer does not have specific symptoms, but various symptoms can worsen. Your condition seems more like an anal fissure or hemorrhoids, or it could be caused by consuming irritating foods. It is recommended to increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and flui...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Discomfort: Is It Just Anxiety or Something More?
Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Issues I experienced gastrointestinal discomfort last month, with alternating diarrhea and constipation, along with frequent flatulence that had a foul odor. I consulted a doctor, who suggested that my symptoms were likely due to irritable bowel syn...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It may be caused by insufficient fiber intake. It is recommended to increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables and observe if there are any changes in your stool patterns. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Managing Stress and Digestive Health
Gastrointestinal issues can be quite bothersome..? Hello, doctor... Recently, I've been experiencing a lot of academic pressure, but I'm eating regular meals and including vegetables in my diet. However, I haven't been drinking enough water and haven't been ex...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, take a walk after meals, reduce prolonged sitting, and observe the results. If necessary, consider having a laxative on hand.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Managing Stress and Digestive Health
Chronic Gastritis: Managing Symptoms and Dietary Concerns After Treatment
Chronic gastritis The gastroscopy revealed the presence of Helicobacter pylori, chronic gastritis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), with no ulcers present. I have completed a 14-day triple antibiotic regimen prescribed by the hospital. While the symptoms of chronic gas...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Treatment needs to be observed for a while before a determination can be made. Individuals should avoid foods that they find unsuitable, primarily sweet, spicy, irritating, or dairy products.[Read More] Chronic Gastritis: Managing Symptoms and Dietary Concerns After Treatment