Managing Gastrointestinal Issues: Concerns About Short-Term Medication Use
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor, I previously inquired about my throat and esophageal discomfort, but I still feel uneasy. I also don’t have enough time to visit a large hospital, so today I paid out of pocket for an endoscopy. I had a complete health check-up in June, inclu...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, ulcerative gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are both related to excessive gastric acid. Taking medication for just one week is insufficient. A proton pump inhibitor (PPI), such as Lansoprazole (which is included in your medication), should be used for 6...[Read More] Managing Gastrointestinal Issues: Concerns About Short-Term Medication Use
Understanding Nausea and Chest Discomfort After Drinking Tea and Soda
Nausea and chest tightness? Hello Dr. Chen, I feel nauseous and have chest tightness whenever I drink tea or soda. In cold weather or when the air quality is poor, I occasionally experience a dry cough and difficulty breathing. Could you please explain what might be wrong with my...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. If there are accompanying symptoms such as acid reflux and belching, the likelihood of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is very high. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Ga...[Read More] Understanding Nausea and Chest Discomfort After Drinking Tea and Soda
Understanding Abnormal Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns
Bowel irregularities I have been experiencing constipation issues, usually having a bowel movement every two to three days, and sometimes it improves to once a day. However, in the past two weeks, my constipation has worsened, with bowel movements occurring every three to four da...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is difficult to determine whether it is acute gastroenteritis; however, in cases of severe constipation, there can be alternating episodes of constipation and diarrhea. This occurs because the accumulation and overgrowth of intestinal bacteria due to constipation can le...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Helicobacter Pylori Treatment: Two-Week Medication Plan Explained
Helicobacter pylori Hello, doctor! I went to see a physician for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and found that I have Helicobacter pylori and gastroesophageal reflux disease, along with issues related to gastric acid. The doctor prescribed a two-week treatment regimen for er...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
First-line standard triple therapy: One proton pump inhibitor, twice daily; Clarithromycin 500 mg, twice daily; Amoxicillin 1 g (or Metronidazole 500 mg), twice daily for 7 to 14 days. Sequential therapy: One proton pump inhibitor, twice daily; Amoxicillin 1 g, twice daily for ...[Read More] Understanding Helicobacter Pylori Treatment: Two-Week Medication Plan Explained
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Lower abdominal pain issues? Doctor, I have been experiencing frequent dull pain in my lower abdomen for a year, especially after eating. I feel the urge to pass gas and have a bowel movement, but the pain is not unbearable. I have a bowel movement once or twice a day, sometimes ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, in order to diagnose irritable bowel syndrome, it is necessary to first rule out other organic diseases. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Irregular Bowel Movements: What to Do?
Loose stools with mild pain around the navel? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing some pain around my navel when I apply slight pressure with my fingers. Normally, it's just a mild discomfort that isn't unbearable, but it's quite bothersome. It sho...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) You should consult a gastroenterologist, who will determine whether you need an upper endoscopy or a colonoscopy. (2) The shape of your stool is influenced by the types of food you eat and the speed of intestinal movement. (3) Borborygmi is the sound produced by the mo...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Irregular Bowel Movements: What to Do?
Why Can't I Burp? Understanding Gas and Gastroesophageal Issues
I feel like I need to burp, but I can't? Hello Doctor, recently I often feel like I want to burp but can't, and it feels like gas is rising up. This symptom has persisted for over a month. When I take medication for bloating, I can burp and feel more comfortable, but af...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The symptoms you described, whether it is gastroesophageal reflux, dyspepsia, constipation, slow intestinal motility, or peptic ulcers, can all present similar symptoms. It is advisable to reduce the intake of high-fat, high-protein foods, caffeinated beverages, and sweets...[Read More] Why Can't I Burp? Understanding Gas and Gastroesophageal Issues
How Long Does Esophagitis Take to Progress to Cancer?
How long does it take for esophagitis to develop into cancer? Hello Doctor: I previously inquired about the timeline for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) potentially progressing to gastric cancer or esophageal cancer. Based on past experiences and average values, is it poss...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Most will not.[Read More] How Long Does Esophagitis Take to Progress to Cancer?
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes, Remedies, and When to Seek Help
Abdominal pain Hello Doctor: I have digestive issues, experiencing bloating after meals. I'm not very picky with food, but I do suffer from constipation, having a bowel movement at least once a week (perhaps due to insufficient intake of water, vegetables, and fruits). I...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If taking gastric medication improves your condition, it may be related to acid-related diseases such as gastritis, gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is advisable to undergo an endoscopy and consult a gastroenterologist to deter...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes, Remedies, and When to Seek Help
Average Time for GERD to Progress to Esophageal or Stomach Cancer
The average time for the development of cancer can vary widely depending on the type of cancer and individual factors. Generally, it can take several years to decades for cancer to develop from precancerous changes to a fully malignant tumor? Hello Dr. Chen: I would like to ask a...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, gastroesophageal reflux can lead to Barrett's esophagus, which may subsequently develop into adenocarcinoma. The time frame for cancer development varies depending on factors such as race, genetic predisposition, individual constitution, and the severity of esophagiti...[Read More] Average Time for GERD to Progress to Esophageal or Stomach Cancer
Risk of Esophageal Cancer from Chronic GERD: What You Need to Know
What is the probability of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) progressing to esophageal cancer? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask, based on your expertise, I was diagnosed with stage II gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) through an endoscopy in August last year. I have be...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Most patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) do not develop esophageal cancer.[Read More] Risk of Esophageal Cancer from Chronic GERD: What You Need to Know
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: GERD, Gastritis, and Bile Reflux
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Dr. Chen, I recently sought medical attention due to long-term gastrointestinal discomfort. After undergoing an endoscopy, I was diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease, erosive gastritis, gastric distension, and bile reflux. The doctor also p...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Wang: If the soft stools are caused by the acid-reducing medication, you can discuss this with your gastroenterologist. Additionally, if you continue to experience cramping pain, you may consider adjusting your gastrointestinal relaxants. Changhua Hospital cares about y...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: GERD, Gastritis, and Bile Reflux
Can GERD Cause Chest Tightness and Breathing Difficulties?
Can gastroesophageal reflux cause chest tightness and difficulty breathing? Hello, I have been experiencing chest tightness and difficulty breathing lately. After examination, I was found to have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Information online suggests that GERD can ca...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Gastroesophageal reflux can indeed cause chest tightness and difficulty breathing. Severe gastroesophageal reflux may lead to asthma. However, if symptoms do not improve after medication and dietary changes, it is essential to first rule out any cardiac issues (cardiology)...[Read More] Can GERD Cause Chest Tightness and Breathing Difficulties?
Understanding the Progression of Grade B Reflux Esophagitis and Cancer Risk
The duration for the progression of grade B reflux esophagitis to esophageal lesions can vary significantly among individuals. Generally, it may take several months to years for such changes to occur, depending on factors such as the severity of reflux, individual health conditio...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that is prone to recurrence. In addition to pharmacological treatment, diet and lifestyle factors also have a significant impact. The degree of inflammation is not absolutely related to the risk of cancer. Sincerely, Dr...[Read More] Understanding the Progression of Grade B Reflux Esophagitis and Cancer Risk
Understanding Silent Acid Reflux: Throat Discomfort Without Heartburn
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Doctor, is it possible for acid reflux to cause discomfort only in the throat without any burning sensation in the esophagus? Shouldn't the acid pass through the esophagus before reaching the throat? If that's the case, the esophag...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, the typical symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a burning sensation in the chest. However, some individuals may present with atypical symptoms such as throat discomfort, a sensation of a foreign body, coughing, and asthma. Atypical symptoms tend to respond...[Read More] Understanding Silent Acid Reflux: Throat Discomfort Without Heartburn
Understanding Esophagitis and Gastritis: Concerns After Endoscopy
Regarding endoscopic diagnosis of esophagitis and gastritis? Hello Doctor: 1. I had an upper endoscopy done 1 year and 3 months ago, which diagnosed me with stage II gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastritis. I have been on medication for treatment, but my symptoms h...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is not curable, but it can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes to reduce the frequency and severity of episodes. The occurrence of cancer is unpredictable and can only be detected through examinations, so if you h...[Read More] Understanding Esophagitis and Gastritis: Concerns After Endoscopy
Understanding Frequent Bloating: When to Seek Gastrointestinal Care
Frequent bloating in the stomach? Frequent bloating in the stomach can be addressed by visiting a general clinic, where the doctor may prescribe medication and recommend a lighter diet due to poor digestion and infrequent bowel movements. This could indeed be a contributing facto...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) In principle, liver function is not related to gastrointestinal function; however, severe hepatitis may cause symptoms such as upper abdominal distension and nausea/vomiting. (2) The causal relationship can be more reasonably stated that constipation and retained stool...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Bloating: When to Seek Gastrointestinal Care
Understanding Bloating and Constipation: Is It a Digestive or Liver Issue?
Constipation! Bloating! I experience bloating for several days each time, and sometimes I feel nauseous, but I can't burp it out, and I haven't had much bowel movement. I visited a general clinic, and the doctor prescribed medication for bloating and stomach issues, adv...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) In principle, liver function is not related to gastrointestinal function; however, severe hepatitis may cause symptoms such as upper abdominal distension and nausea/vomiting. (2) The causal relationship can be more reasonably stated as constipation and fecal retention ...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Constipation: Is It a Digestive or Liver Issue?
Managing Nausea and Vomiting in Bedridden Patients After Sitting Practice
Patients who have been bedridden for a long time often experience nausea and vomiting after practicing sitting up and standing? Hello Dr. Chen, My father underwent spinal surgery in March of this year, which resulted in an infection, leading to approximately one and a half month...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Your description seems to be more related to orthostatic hypotension causing vomiting. When getting up, try to do so slowly and gradually. Additionally, please monitor your blood pressure regularly to check for any abnormalities. The feeding principle should be to offer sm...[Read More] Managing Nausea and Vomiting in Bedridden Patients After Sitting Practice
Understanding GERD and PPI Side Effects: Seeking Effective Solutions
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and the side effects of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)? Hello Doctor, my mother has been struggling with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for nearly a year and has lost 7-10 kilograms. In March of this year, she underwent an upper endos...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, in addition to using PPIs for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is important to adopt dietary and lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol and tobacco consumption, limiting coffee, tea, and spicy foods, avoiding glutinous rice dishes, and steering clear of overl...[Read More] Understanding GERD and PPI Side Effects: Seeking Effective Solutions