Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Having dark brown stools for three consecutive days can indicate various conditions. It is important to monitor any additional symptoms and consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation? On October 1st, I had three consecutive days of very thin, dark stools. I also ex...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on the symptoms, there is a high possibility of gastroenteritis; additionally, due to the accompanying respiratory symptoms, it is likely a gastrointestinal type of cold. 2. Gastroesophageal reflux often accompanies gastritis or peptic ulcers, which can also lead ...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Continuous Belching: What It Means for Your Digestive Health
Continuous isolation If you have been experiencing continuous hiccups for three days without any sensation of bloating in the stomach, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Persistent hiccups can sometimes be caused by irritation of the diaphragm, gastroesophageal reflux dis...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Excessive belching is associated with gastric and duodenal diseases, primarily caused by poor gastric emptying and bloating. It is recommended to consider medication treatment or an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Wishing you good health. Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospi...[Read More] Understanding Continuous Belching: What It Means for Your Digestive Health
Understanding the Necessity of Gastroscopy in Gastrointestinal Health
The necessity of gastroscopy? Doctor, thank you for your previous response. I would like to ask about the gastroscopy. The reason for undergoing a gastroscopy is that it is more convenient and allows for immediate treatment, but if I don't have the procedure, can I just take...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is performed to check for lesions, cancer, inflammation, ulcers, or gastroesophageal reflux disease in the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The duration of medication treatment varies, and sometimes testing for Helicobacter pylori is co...[Read More] Understanding the Necessity of Gastroscopy in Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Gastrointestinal Distress and Breathing Issues: A Patient's Journey
Abdominal bloating and difficulty breathing? Hello, doctor: I have read many articles, but it seems that no one has the same experience as I do. Recently, I have seen many doctors, but my symptoms have not improved. I have been working night shifts for over two years, and one day...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
1. The typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) include heartburn and acid regurgitation. Atypical symptoms may include chest pain, a sensation of a lump in the throat, and asthma. 2. It is recommended to relax and not be overly anxious, while paying attention t...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Distress and Breathing Issues: A Patient's Journey
Are Esophageal Ulcers a Risk Factor for Esophageal Cancer?
Is esophageal ulcer prone to developing esophageal cancer? Hello Doctor: Last May, I was diagnosed with a gastric ulcer and Helicobacter pylori during an endoscopy. After two months of treatment, I underwent another endoscopy, and the doctor said the ulcer had healed and the bact...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Nini: It is likely a new lesion, mostly caused by gastric acid or external irritants. A biopsy can rule out cancer, but the chances are very low (especially since you do not smoke or drink). If you are concerned, a follow-up endoscopy in 1 to 2 months would be sufficien...[Read More] Are Esophageal Ulcers a Risk Factor for Esophageal Cancer?
Combining Gan An Neng and Hui Li Tuo for GERD: Safety and Efficacy Concerns
The issue of taking medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) such as Gan An Neng and Huilituo? Hello, doctor. I am currently taking Dexamethasone and Metformin. Recently, I have also been taking medication for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for the past year...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) You only need to follow the instructions and take the medications separately before and after meals. This will not reduce their effectiveness. (2) Dexamethasone and Esomeprazole should not be discontinued arbitrarily according to clinical guidelines. Gastroesophageal r...[Read More] Combining Gan An Neng and Hui Li Tuo for GERD: Safety and Efficacy Concerns
Should You Get Another Endoscopy for Stomach Issues?
Should a gastroscopy be performed for diagnosis? Hello Doctor: Last August, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which diagnosed me with grade B gastroesophageal reflux disease. Since then, I have experienced gastric discomfort, but it has stabilized after April of th...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) If you are asymptomatic, there is no need for another gastroscopy. It is important to maintain good daily habits and dietary practices, and to follow up if symptoms occur. (2) Typically, feces in the rectum will be expelled first; this area tends to retain water longer...[Read More] Should You Get Another Endoscopy for Stomach Issues?
Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Left upper abdominal distension and pain? For nearly two months, I have been experiencing a bloating and dull pain in the area of my stomach (I'm not sure if it's the stomach), specifically about one to two centimeters below the xiphoid process, near the lower edge of t...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to undergo an abdominal ultrasound examination to check for any abnormalities in the gallbladder, liver, pancreas, and other organs. Best wishes, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Can Acid Reflux Lead to Sudden Cardiac Arrest? Understanding the Risks
Can gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) lead to sudden death? Hello Doctor: A friend experienced sudden death while sleeping due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and I find this very puzzling. I would like to inquire about the possible causes and likelihood of sudden...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Common causes of sudden cardiac death include: 1. Cardiac issues such as arrhythmias, myocardial ischemia, and myocardial infarction; 2. Respiratory problems, such as asthma attacks, sleep apnea, and airway obstruction; 3. Endocrine issues like hypoglycemia. Wishing you go...[Read More] Can Acid Reflux Lead to Sudden Cardiac Arrest? Understanding the Risks
Understanding Stomach Discomfort and Throat Issues: Causes and Solutions
Bloating in the stomach and a strange sensation in the throat? Hello Doctor: Since around October of last year, I have been experiencing bloating due to excessive lemon water consumption and anxiety. In late October, I underwent an endoscopy, and the doctor informed me that I had...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. If your sore throat is caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is indeed necessary to first address the issue of excessive stomach acid. 2. Medications can help alleviate symptoms when they are most pronounced, but in the long term, it is advisable to avoid...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Discomfort and Throat Issues: Causes and Solutions
Understanding the Link Between GERD and Heart Palpitations
Gastroesophageal reflux can cause arrhythmias? Hello, Doctor: Last year, I first experienced these symptoms and underwent examinations at the cardiology department, including an echocardiogram, X-ray, and 24-hour heart rate monitoring, all of which showed normal cardiac function....
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Large studies have shown a relationship between symptoms such as angina, myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If we can prevent or alleviate episodes of GERD, it may also reduce symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, and pa...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between GERD and Heart Palpitations
Long-Term Omeprazole Use: Risks of Tolerance and Alternatives Explained
Will long-term use of omeprazole lead to drug resistance? I have been taking omeprazole for nearly 8 months. Since I was 28 years old, after healing from an ulcer, I have been experiencing gastritis and excessive stomach acid until now. I had regular follow-ups in Taiwan, and the...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) such as Lansoprazole, Esomeprazole, and Omeprazole can be used at a dosage of two tablets per day when symptoms are particularly severe. Of course, all medications have potential side effects, but these drugs generally...[Read More] Long-Term Omeprazole Use: Risks of Tolerance and Alternatives Explained
Understanding Stomach Gurgling: Causes, Concerns, and Remedies
Borborygmi in the stomach? Hello Dr. Tsai, in the past half month, I have noticed that when I lie flat in bed, my stomach makes gurgling sounds. I visited a gastroenterologist, who asked me some questions and then explained that these sounds are due to gastrointestinal motility. ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) As your physician has informed you, the sounds you are hearing are due to intestinal peristalsis. If there are no discomfort symptoms, there is no need for medication. The elements that contribute to borborygmi include intestinal gas, moisture, and rapid peristalsis. I...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Gurgling: Causes, Concerns, and Remedies
Understanding GERD: A Young Adult's Struggle with Symptoms and Treatment
Gastroesophageal reflux is very bothersome? Honestly, over the past six months, I've felt quite hopeless about this condition. I'm only 24 years old and have been dealing with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) since last year. In August of last year, I underwent an...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may not always correlate between endoscopic findings and clinical symptoms; for instance, endoscopic grading may be A or B while symptoms are severe, and some may have endoscopic grades C or D but exhibit mild symptoms. 2. GERD...[Read More] Understanding GERD: A Young Adult's Struggle with Symptoms and Treatment
Understanding GERD: Treatment Challenges and Patient Concerns
Issues in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) To be honest, I have felt quite hopeless about this condition over the past six months. I am only 24 years old and have been dealing with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) since last year. In August of last ye...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that is prone to recurrence, especially in individuals with a hiatal hernia. In addition to pharmacological treatment, the following lifestyle and dietary recommendations are suggested: minimize smoking and alcohol cons...[Read More] Understanding GERD: Treatment Challenges and Patient Concerns
Understanding Stomach Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Bloating and Pain
Stomach discomfort? Hiccups, gastric acid. For the past month, I started experiencing intermittent abdominal pain today.
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms, it could be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastritis, or peptic ulcer disease. It is recommended to undergo further examination with an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Best regards, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department o...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Bloating and Pain
Chronic Cough: Is Gastroesophageal Reflux the Hidden Cause?
Chronic cough lasting for a long time that is not resolved by an otolaryngologist may be due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? Hello: I have had a long-term chronic cough for as long as I can remember. I have seen many ENT specialists, and they all said it was due to pos...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: If chronic cough is caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), an upper endoscopy or medication treatment can be performed to achieve improvement and confirm the diagnosis. If effective medications have been used without noticeable results, it may not necessarily be...[Read More] Chronic Cough: Is Gastroesophageal Reflux the Hidden Cause?
Understanding Stomach Ulcers and Acid Reflux: Symptoms and Management
About gastric ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? Hello Dr. Tsai: I previously underwent an endoscopy, and the doctor mentioned that I have a mild gastric ulcer. I have been on medication for nearly three months now, and while I initially felt better, attending gat...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. A gastric ulcer refers to damage to the gastric mucosa, exposing the submucosal layer and potentially leading to bleeding from exposed blood vessels. The bloating you experience after a large meal may not necessarily be due to a gastric ulcer; it could also be caused by...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Ulcers and Acid Reflux: Symptoms and Management
Understanding Stomach Issues: Gas, Pain, and the Need for Endoscopy
Please ask your question! Hello Dr. Tsai, I previously consulted you regarding issues related to my stomach, and I apologize for bothering you again. 1. Over the past few days, I have been experiencing bloating and a feeling of pressure in my stomach. I had a follow-up appoin...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) primarily affects the lower esophagus, while gastric ulcers primarily affect the stomach. One common cause of both conditions is gastric acid. Theoretically, taking medications to reduce gastric acid can simultaneously treat both ...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Issues: Gas, Pain, and the Need for Endoscopy
Can Academic Pressure and Forced Eating Cause Stomach Pain in Kids?
A first-grade student is experiencing stomach pain? Is it possible that my child, who is currently in the seventh grade, is experiencing stomach pain due to academic pressure? Additionally, if a tutoring center forces children to finish their lunch even if they have a small appet...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Stress ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can also occur in adolescents. As for the true cause of stomach pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention and consult a pediatrician. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. ...[Read More] Can Academic Pressure and Forced Eating Cause Stomach Pain in Kids?