Is It Safe to Shower Right After Eating? Debunking Myths About Digestion
Question Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if it's true that you shouldn't take a shower immediately after eating. I've heard that taking a shower right after a meal can lead to gastric prolapse. Is this true? How long should I wait before showering? Thank you.
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, I have not come across any research literature regarding the idea that bathing after meals can cause gastric ptosis. However, theoretically, blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract increases after eating. If one bathes immediately afterward (especially in hot water), it m...[Read More] Is It Safe to Shower Right After Eating? Debunking Myths About Digestion
Managing Unexplained Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Home Care and Follow-Up Tips
What should be done in cases of gastrointestinal bleeding with an unknown cause? Hello, doctor. I have had ten episodes of tarry black stools within four days, accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness. During the emergency visit, my hemoglobin ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, if both the gastroscopy and colonoscopy were performed thoroughly without any missed findings (some small lesions may cause significant bleeding but can sometimes be obscured by food or hidden in mucosal folds), then it is possible that the issue lies within the small inte...[Read More] Managing Unexplained Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Home Care and Follow-Up Tips
Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Abdominal bloating? I have a question. When I palpate downwards from the nipple, I feel a lump approximately three fingerbreadths above the navel. It feels swollen when I touch it from above, but when I press directly on that area, it feels soft and not hard. What could this issu...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Reply: Hello, 1. The swollen area you mentioned could involve subcutaneous tissue, gastrointestinal tract, liver, or retroperitoneal organs. Conditions such as subcutaneous lipomas, gastrointestinal distension, or visceral tumors may also cause swelling. It is advisable to cons...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Understanding Malignant Fibrous Tumors: Key Insights and Information
What is a malignant fibrous tumor? Malignant fibrous tumor, also known as malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH), is a type of soft tissue sarcoma that typically arises in the extremities or retroperitoneum. It is characterized by the presence of pleomorphic spindle-shaped cells an...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, a fibroma is a tumor composed of fibrous tissue and is classified as a spindle cell tumor. It can occur in any organ, but it is most commonly found in the soft tissues of the retroperitoneum. Histologically, if there is cellular diversity, increased mitotic activity, and p...[Read More] Understanding Malignant Fibrous Tumors: Key Insights and Information
Understanding Abnormal Stool: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation
The stool has become thin? Dear Doctor: My husband had gastroenteritis three months ago and went to the hospital for an examination. He underwent an endoscopy, and the report indicated the presence of Helicobacter pylori. After taking medication for a week, he still experienced d...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Response: Hello, 1. If there are changes in bowel habits, you may consult a gastroenterologist to arrange for a fecal occult blood test, and if necessary, an examination of the lower gastrointestinal tract. 2. Helicobacter pylori is associated with chronic gastritis, gastric u...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Stool: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation
Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain and Dark Brown Stool Causes
Right upper quadrant pain with bloody stools? I have a slight dull pain in my upper right abdomen, and during bowel movements, I notice some dark brown discoloration (though I don't believe it's blood in the stool). The doctor tested and found a positive reaction for oc...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello, in general, bleeding from the stomach, esophagus, or duodenum can cause stools to appear tarry (very dark). Bleeding from the colon, rectum, or anus typically results in stools that are dark red, bright red, or deep brown, which is considered normal. A positive fecal occul...[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain and Dark Brown Stool Causes
Is It Safe to Exercise on an Empty Stomach with Gastroparesis?
Is it advisable to avoid exercising on an empty stomach if you have gastric ptosis? Hello doctor, I have been diagnosed with gastroparesis for several weeks. When I visited the doctor, they only advised me not to exercise immediately after eating and to rest for a while. Therefor...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, because the blood in our body cannot keep all our blood vessels in a state of congestion, it is best to exercise one hour before meals and two hours after meals to avoid insufficient blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract, which could affect digestion. This message is co...[Read More] Is It Safe to Exercise on an Empty Stomach with Gastroparesis?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation or Indigestion?
Please ask your question? I have been experiencing gastrointestinal issues for a long time, and I'm not sure whether to classify it as constipation or indigestion, as the food I consume seems difficult to digest in the small intestine. It used to be intermittent, but recentl...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, this seems more like a case of dyspepsia. You may want to visit a gastroenterology clinic for an upper gastrointestinal examination, such as an endoscopy or upper GI series, to assess for factors such as ulcers, strictures, or even tumors that could be causing poor gastric...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation or Indigestion?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Gastrointestinal issues..? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask about the swelling under my left rib cage that has been present for quite some time. I have seen a doctor in the past, but they said that one side of the ribs is naturally more swollen and dismissed my concerns. Is tha...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, the area below the left rib may involve parts of the stomach and intestines. If you are experiencing persistent discomfort along with gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for an evaluation of your gastrointestinal trac...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Dietary Recommendations for Gastrointestinal Issues: Addressing Dark Stool and Fatigue
What are the dietary recommendations for gastrointestinal disorders? My boyfriend is 24 years old and has a habit of eating meat, pickled foods, barbecued items, and smoked foods. He sometimes drinks a few beers with friends. Recently, for over a week, his stool has been dark and...
Dr. Su Baojia Reply:
A diet that habitually includes meats, pickled, char-grilled, and smoked foods contains nitrates, which are reduced to nitrites by bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. These nitrites can then form nitrosamines, which may be carcinogenic. It is essential to maintain a balanced ...[Read More] Dietary Recommendations for Gastrointestinal Issues: Addressing Dark Stool and Fatigue
Understanding Chronic Stomach Pain: Causes, Risks, and Dietary Tips
Regarding recurrent stomach pain? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you a question. If someone experiences frequent stomach pain and sometimes bloating, but had tests done two years ago that showed no issues, is there still a possibility that it could develop into cancer? Or is ...
Dr. Su Baojia Reply:
There are many causes of stomach pain, which may include superficial gastritis, erosive gastritis, atrophic gastritis, ulcers, or gastric cancer, as well as gastrointestinal motility issues. Individuals with the following conditions are at a higher risk of developing gastric canc...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Stomach Pain: Causes, Risks, and Dietary Tips
Is It Normal for Pregnant Women to Experience Severe Nausea and Diarrhea?
Could you please provide more context or details regarding your question? I am a pregnant woman and I am over three months along. Although I experienced mild nausea during the early stages of pregnancy, it was not severe. However, since yesterday, I have been vomiting immediately...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, the vomiting and diarrhea this time seem to be caused by gastroenteritis. The dark yellow urine indicates that fluids are being lost from the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in more concentrated urine. It is recommended to adequately replenish fluids and electrolytes (su...[Read More] Is It Normal for Pregnant Women to Experience Severe Nausea and Diarrhea?
Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Is It Liver or Gastrointestinal Issues?
Could you please specify the gastrointestinal issues you are inquiring about? I have recently been feeling a sense of heaviness in my abdomen, especially after meals, which is quite pronounced (although it's not pain, it feels uncomfortable). I often hear gurgling sounds fro...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, 1. These symptoms are likely related to gastrointestinal issues, resembling indigestion or irritable bowel syndrome. It is advisable to relax, avoid excessive stress, and steer clear of tobacco, alcohol, and spicy foods. If discomfort persists, a medical evaluation is re...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Is It Liver or Gastrointestinal Issues?
Struggling to Gain Weight: Seeking Gastroenterology Advice
I want to gain weight? Hello, I am Xiao P from Kaohsiung. I have been troubled by a persistent issue: I have difficulty gaining weight. My height is 181 cm, but I only weigh 60 kg, and my weight has remained at 60 kg for a long time. I consider myself to have a good appetite, yet...
Dr. Su Baojia Reply:
If you are underweight, it is important to consider whether there are any gastrointestinal issues, as the gastrointestinal tract can affect nutrient absorption. Additionally, it is advisable to check for hyperthyroidism, as this condition can also lead to weight loss. Therefore, ...[Read More] Struggling to Gain Weight: Seeking Gastroenterology Advice
Understanding the Causes of Rectal Bleeding: Insights from Gastroenterology
Consultation I visited the colorectal department at the Veterans General Hospital, where I was informed that I have a mild case of hemorrhoids and some skin breakdown around the anus due to scratching. They prescribed some topical treatment and recommended a stool test since I ha...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, the presence of occult blood in the stool indicates that there are blood components in the feces. There are many reasons that can cause a positive occult blood reaction, such as consumption of red meat (beef, lamb), broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, or even eating pig or chic...[Read More] Understanding the Causes of Rectal Bleeding: Insights from Gastroenterology
Understanding Blood Stains After Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns
Bowel movement issues If you notice a small amount of fresh blood when wiping after a bowel movement, but there are no traces of blood in the stool, this could be a symptom of several conditions, such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or irritation of the anal area. It is also possi...
Dr. Su Baojia Reply:
After bowel movements, if you notice a small amount of fresh blood on the tissue, it may be due to hemorrhoids and is likely not related to your menstrual period.[Read More] Understanding Blood Stains After Bowel Movements: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Diarrhea and abdominal pain for several consecutive days? Hello Dr. Chen: My husband is 44 years old and has been experiencing abdominal pain (on the right side of the navel) and diarrhea (watery, yellowish... sometimes with black stools) for four consecutive days. He has taken g...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, 1. You can consult a gastroenterologist, general internist, or family medicine physician. 2. Avoid irritants such as spicy foods, alcohol, greasy foods, and dairy products (milk, cheese), and gradually return to a normal diet as you recover. 3. If this has been a long-...[Read More] Understanding Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Nausea: Is It a Sign of Gastrointestinal Issues?
I'm sorry, but I need more context or specific content to provide a translation. Please provide the text you would like me to translate? Doctor, I used to never feel nauseous when eating, and I'm not pregnant. However, in recent months, I've occasionally felt nause...
Dr. Liang Jiade Reply:
Hello, nausea itself is a relatively nonspecific symptom that can be related to the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, liver and biliary system, as well as emotions, stress, sleep, and diet. It may also be a functional manifestation. Therefore, it is essential to clarify many r...[Read More] Understanding Nausea: Is It a Sign of Gastrointestinal Issues?
Understanding Chronic Nausea: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Chronic nausea I have been experiencing nausea for about two months. I underwent an endoscopy at the hospital, and the doctor said my stomach is healthy. I also had liver function tests and blood tests, all of which came back normal. After the tests, the nausea disappeared for ab...
Dr. Liang Jiade Reply:
Hello, nausea itself is a relatively nonspecific symptom that can be related to the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, liver and biliary system, as well as emotions, stress, and sleep. Your symptoms consist solely of nausea without any other related symptoms, and you have under...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Nausea: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Recovery, and When to Seek Help
At a loss? Dear Dr. Chen, 1. I started experiencing abdominal pain at 11 PM on April 4th. On the morning of April 5th, in addition to the ongoing abdominal pain, I vomited twice and had a small amount of soft stool. The doctor diagnosed me with viral gastroenteritis, and after r...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, in response to your questions, here are the answers: 1. Viral gastroenteritis, often referred to as "stomach flu," typically involves infections from rotavirus or other viruses. In addition to gastrointestinal symptoms, it may present with respiratory symptoms o...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Recovery, and When to Seek Help