Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention
Gastrointestinal discomfort Hello, for the past few months, I have been experiencing discomfort in my gastrointestinal tract, with frequent lower abdominal pain and bloating. My appetite has decreased, and I have been vomiting after eating. Additionally, I have noticed blood in m...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist, as a physician's interview and physical examination are necessary to determine what tests should be arranged. It is advised to consume more fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, avoid irritating foods, and have daily ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Blood and Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Blood and mucus in the stool? I noticed blood in my stool yesterday, but it wasn't fresh blood; it was mixed with mucus and had a velvety appearance. Recently, my gastrointestinal tract has been making noises, somewhat deep, similar to gas but not quite. After having a bowel...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist and arrange for a routine stool examination. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Blood and Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Is Fast Digestion Normal? Understanding Gastrointestinal Absorption Issues
Gastrointestinal absorption Is it normal for the food I eat in the morning to be expelled by the evening? I can smell coffee in my stool 5 to 6 hours after drinking it. Why is this happening? Is it because my digestion is too fast and my gastrointestinal tract isn't absorbin...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello, (1) How to determine if what is expelled at night is food eaten in the morning? Essentially, once food has been chewed and digested through the gastrointestinal tract, it becomes quite difficult to identify, unless the gastrointestinal motility is very rapid. The length of...[Read More] Is Fast Digestion Normal? Understanding Gastrointestinal Absorption Issues
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Black Stool, Digestive Health, and More
Gastrointestinal questions? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a few questions: 1. About 6 days ago, I had diarrhea and passed stool that was dark black in color. The next day, after taking medication, my stool became more formed but smaller in size, and there were green, fuzzy...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) Since you have just experienced diarrhea, your stool may temporarily appear thinner; you can continue to observe it and there's no need to worry too much. (2) After the intestinal mucosa heals, it should return to normal. (3) Sometimes gastroenteritis can lead to ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Black Stool, Digestive Health, and More
Understanding Irregular Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Difficulty in passing stool in a formed shape? My bowel movement schedule is irregular, with at least one bowel movement every one to two days; however, the stool shape is difficult to form into a long shape, appearing instead as scattered, mushy, or flat pieces, but it is not di...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to visit the gastroenterology department for a stool and colon examination. If the results are normal, consider enzyme therapy. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Chi-Feng, Attending Physician, Gastroenterology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health an...[Read More] Understanding Irregular Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Managing Digestive Issues: Tips for Improving Gut Health
Digestive issues Hello, doctor. In July of this year, I experienced digestive issues and consulted a gastroenterologist. The doctor mentioned that my gastrointestinal tract was filled with gas, which was causing my indigestion. I returned for follow-up visits twice, and the docto...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment. (2) In terms of diet, it is advised to ensure adequate hydration, and to include sufficient vegetables and fruits, along with moderate exercise. Additionally, developing a habit of regular bowel movements at the ...[Read More] Managing Digestive Issues: Tips for Improving Gut Health
Understanding Abnormal Stool: Causes and Concerns for Gastrointestinal Health
Abnormal bowel movements? Hello Dr. Tsai, I have been experiencing some discomfort in my gastrointestinal tract lately. I feel a sharp pain when pressing near my navel (on the left side), and I have noticed some unusual characteristics in my stool: 1. There are small black specks...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The color of stool is influenced by the type of diet. The presence of bubbles in the stool is likely due to air pockets in the stool being released in the water. The fiber consumed is not broken down or absorbed by the body, so it is recommended to chew it thoroughly befor...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Stool: Causes and Concerns for Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Abdominal pain Since yesterday, I have been experiencing mild abdominal pain, but it occurs frequently. I am uncertain whether it is due to accidentally swallowing a fishbone. A few days ago, while eating, I felt something that seemed like a fishbone, but I also felt that I did n...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, the most common issue with accidentally swallowing a fishbone is that it gets lodged in the throat or esophagus. If it has already passed into the gastrointestinal tract, discomfort is rare; however, there are a few cases where it can pierce the intestinal wall. At this po...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Bowel Issues: Coffee's Impact on Digestion and Stool Quality
Bowel issues I usually have normal bowel movements, but sometimes after drinking coffee, I immediately feel the urge to have a bowel movement. Occasionally, my stool is shaped normally, but sometimes it can be a bit loose. Recently, I've noticed that regardless of the stool&...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. If there is a layer of oil in the stool, it is generally a sign of indigestion; it is recommended to avoid greasy foods. 2. Coffee contains caffeine, which can stimulate the gastrointestinal tract; it is advisable to consume it in moderation. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Coffee's Impact on Digestion and Stool Quality
Does Drinking Green Tea Affect Digestive Health with Herbal Remedies?
Gastrointestinal discomfort? If you are feeling unwell and have gastrointestinal issues, drinking green tea may have an impact. If you are also taking traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that contains ingredients for the stomach or gastrointestinal tract, it's important to co...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If your discomfort is caused by peptic ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), then green tea, coffee, carbonated beverages, smoking, and a diet high in fat or protein may exacerbate your symptoms. If the symptoms persist and do not improve, you should consult a ...[Read More] Does Drinking Green Tea Affect Digestive Health with Herbal Remedies?
Post-Meal Abdominal Pain: Is Lifting Heavy Objects Safe?
Abdominal pain after lifting heavy objects following a meal? Hello Doctor: After I finish eating, I often have to hold a toddler weighing over 10 kilograms, but I immediately experience stomach pain and sometimes diarrhea (this does not happen when I hold the child at other times...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Dear Mr./Ms. Xiao Cai, experiencing abdominal pain or diarrhea after holding a child following a meal may be due to the gastrointestinal tract starting to peristalsis after eating, combined with the strain of holding a heavy object, which can lead to discomfort. It is recommended...[Read More] Post-Meal Abdominal Pain: Is Lifting Heavy Objects Safe?
Understanding Bad Breath: Exploring Causes and Potential Solutions
Halitosis issues? I have been experiencing bad breath for several years. After researching online, I found that Helicobacter pylori infection might cause bad breath. Therefore, I went to a local lab to get a blood test to check for H. pylori infection, and the results showed that...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Dear Mr. Ming, Oral malodor may originate from the oral cavity, lungs, or gastrointestinal tract. The unpleasant odor is often caused by bacterial fermentation, which may explain the reduction in odor you experienced while taking antibiotics. However, a negative blood test for H...[Read More] Understanding Bad Breath: Exploring Causes and Potential Solutions
Managing Ovarian Cysts and Stomach Ulcers: Symptoms and Solutions
Gastric ulcer with bloating, pain, nausea, and a desire to vomit, along with an ovarian cyst? I went to the emergency room on August 4th due to pain in my lower right abdomen. After a CT scan, I was diagnosed with an ovarian cyst. I was given pain medication and after an examinat...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: It is recommended to undergo gastroscopy and abdominal ultrasound to confirm the current status of your gastrointestinal tract and adjust your gastrointestinal medications. If there is a suspicion that the side effects of medications from other specialties are causin...[Read More] Managing Ovarian Cysts and Stomach Ulcers: Symptoms and Solutions
Understanding Loose Stools: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Stool should not be hard or constipated? Hello Doctor: Since July 11th, after eating too much at the night market, I have been experiencing loose stools that cannot form solid stools. I visited a small clinic and took medication, and I have also adjusted my diet to include more v...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, during gastroenteritis, a light diet is necessary, and attention should be paid to food hygiene, consumption of cooked foods, hydration, and electrolyte balance. The illness typically lasts about 1 to 2 weeks, varying from person to person. If symptoms persist or recur, it...[Read More] Understanding Loose Stools: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Managing Nutritional Challenges in Tube Feeding for Gastrointestinal Issues
Nutritional enteral feeding My grandfather fell six months ago and underwent brain surgery, and his consciousness has not been very clear. He has been receiving nutrition through a nasogastric tube for half a year, but he often experiences poor digestion and is prone to vomiting....
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: In addition to changing the enteral feeding formula, if there are issues with digestion, consider feeding in smaller, more frequent meals. Furthermore, the problem of indigestion should take into account potential issues with the gastrointestinal tract itself (such as ulce...[Read More] Managing Nutritional Challenges in Tube Feeding for Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Bloating and Constipation: When to Seek Further Testing
Abdominal distension and difficulty with bowel movements? The phenomenon of abdominal bloating has persisted for nearly a month. After meals, my stomach noticeably expands, but my appetite is good. When I feel the urge to defecate, the stool volume is not significant. During this...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, bloating and constipation are common functional disorders. It is recommended to adjust dietary habits. If there has been no improvement despite medication treatment, it may be necessary to arrange for examinations to check for any lesions in the gastrointestinal tract. Bot...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Constipation: When to Seek Further Testing
Understanding Digestive Issues: Insights on Bowel Problems and Treatment
Bowel issues Hello, Doctor! Over the past few months, I have been undergoing treatment for gastrointestinal issues. I had an endoscopy, which indicated gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). I have also been taking the medication prescribed by my doctor, Dexilant 6...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, the side effects of Dexilant may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which could indicate a more sensitive gastrointestinal tract. Patients often feel better after a bowel movement. It is advisable to manage emotions and monitor food and medication inta...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Insights on Bowel Problems and Treatment
Understanding Red Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Red stool? I just had a bowel movement and my stomach doesn't hurt. After finishing, I noticed that the last part of my stool was red and scattered, not formed into a solid shape (it was a reddish-orange color). The initial part of the stool was solid and brown, but the end ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, it is suspected to be related to food. It is recommended to observe the situation; if it is indeed related to the color of the food, it should disappear within 1 to 2 days. Wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of ...[Read More] Understanding Red Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Solutions
Abdominal distension? Hello Doctor, I was recently diagnosed with endocrine dysfunction. My limbs and body are quite thin, but my abdomen sometimes becomes swollen and protrudes, resembling the early stages of pregnancy. However, after I wake up from sleep, my abdomen goes back t...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. Abdominal distension or a protruding abdomen may require visual examination for clarity. 2. Possible causes of abdominal distension include gastrointestinal dysfunction or issues with intra-abdominal organs (such as the gastrointestinal tract, liver, gallbladder, pan...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Solutions
Understanding the Risks of Ingesting Fungal Contaminants from Household Items
Regarding the ingestion of mold? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask you about a situation. Today, my mother accidentally threw away something usable into the household trash bin. As a result, she rummaged through the trash and came across several pieces of tissue paper, which ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, ingesting mold does not cause gastrointestinal infections from fungi. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Ingesting Fungal Contaminants from Household Items