Understanding Fecal Occult Blood and Ferritin Testing in Gastrointestinal Health
Fecal occult blood test and ferritin level assessment? Hello Doctor, I underwent fecal occult blood testing and transferrin testing at the hospital. After researching online, I have some confusion and would like to ask: 1. Is the fecal occult blood immunoassay generally used to...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
I have not used fecal ferritin and cannot provide any recommendations.[Read More] Understanding Fecal Occult Blood and Ferritin Testing in Gastrointestinal Health
Concerns About Ingesting Metal Scrubbers: What to Do Next?
Suspected ingestion of a cleaned steel brush or wire brush? If you accidentally ingested a piece of soft iron wire, approximately 3-5 centimeters long, there are several potential concerns. Ingesting foreign objects can lead to various complications, including gastrointestinal ob...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Soft iron wire should be harmless, but if you are very concerned, you can have an X-ray taken to confirm whether it is present in the body.[Read More] Concerns About Ingesting Metal Scrubbers: What to Do Next?
Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
I would like to consult a physician? Recently, the doctor mentioned that my irregular sleep schedule caused some issues, but after adjusting my routine, I started eating three meals a day yesterday, and my bowel movements have improved slightly, although they are still a bit soft...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely still irritable bowel syndrome, and adjustments to a normal diet are needed, including reducing spicy and irritating foods. The presence of excessive foam in the urine is not significant, so there is no need to worry too much at this time.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Potential Health Risks of Inadvertently Swallowing Metal Fragments
Gastrointestinal issues Today, while eating zhajiangmian at a noodle shop, I encountered a small piece of metal wire towards the end of my meal. I had been eating quickly and am concerned that there might have been more pieces that I didn't notice and could have accidentally...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, it is important to focus while eating. If you accidentally swallow a small wire and do not notice it, there is no need to panic. Just pay attention to any symptoms. Most individuals with normal gastrointestinal anatomy will naturally expel swallowed foreign objects. Howeve...[Read More] Potential Health Risks of Inadvertently Swallowing Metal Fragments
Understanding Elevated CA199 and Amylase Levels: Clinical Implications
CA19-9 and Amylase Hello: I underwent interferon treatment for hepatitis C 10 years ago. However, in the past 2 to 3 years, I have found that my regularly monitored CA 19-9 levels are twice the upper limit of the standard value, and my amylase levels are 1.38 times the upper limi...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The CA19-9 level is twice the upper limit of the standard value, and the amylase level is 1.38 times the upper limit of the standard value. Both values remain elevated. Although the levels are not extremely high, it is important to consider potential issues related to the ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CA199 and Amylase Levels: Clinical Implications
Understanding the Clinical Significance of Elevated CA199 and Amylase Levels
CA199 and amylase Hello: I underwent interferon treatment for hepatitis C ten years ago, but in the past two to three years, I have found that my regularly monitored CA 19-9 levels are twice the upper limit of the normal range, and my amylase levels are 1.38 times the upper limit...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The CA 19-9 level is twice the upper limit of the standard value, and the amylase level is 1.38 times the upper limit of the standard value. Both values remain elevated. Although the levels are not extremely high, it is important to consider issues related to the pancreas,...[Read More] Understanding the Clinical Significance of Elevated CA199 and Amylase Levels
Concerns About Parasites: Symptoms and Treatment After Dog Exposure
Parasitic concerns? Hello Doctor, recently after cleaning my thermos, I found a live small worm inside it. I didn’t think to take a picture at the time and immediately killed it with hot water in the sink. Since I have been in frequent contact with a puppy lately, I suspect that ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If you are concerned, you can visit the infectious disease clinic for examination and confirmation.[Read More] Concerns About Parasites: Symptoms and Treatment After Dog Exposure
Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Mucus in stool Hello Doctor: This past week, I've been experiencing some constipation (only small pellets) and sometimes feel the urge to use the restroom but end up sitting for a long time without being able to go. I've also noticed yellow-green mucus leaking from my a...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello! The presence of mucus in the stool, along with constipation, painful bowel movements, yellow-green discharge, and external hemorrhoids, can be concerning. It is normal for stool to contain some mucus; however, if there is an excessive amount with a foul odor, it may indica...[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Bowel Issues: Insights from Gastroenterology Experts
Bowel movement issues Hello, doctor. In the past few months, my bowel movements have sometimes been well-formed and other times loose. I considered that it might be related to dietary fiber, and I've been eating high-fiber vegetables and fruits, but there hasn't been an...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, A 25-year-old male is experiencing bowel issues, with stool consistency varying between well-formed and loose. There is left lower abdominal pain that improves after bowel movements, which may indicate a sensitive gastrointestinal tract, irritable bowel syndrome, or gast...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Insights from Gastroenterology Experts
Understanding Right-Sided Bladder Pain and Digestive Issues
Pain in the right side of the bladder? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing quite a bit of bloating in my gastrointestinal tract lately; some days are better than others. Could this bloating be related to the foods I am eating? My stool has a slightly sour smell; could this ind...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there are no symptoms such as blood in the stool, weight loss, worsening pain, or fever, further observation is recommended. Localized heat application is also suggested, along with a balanced diet and moderate exercise.[Read More] Understanding Right-Sided Bladder Pain and Digestive Issues
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Is It Normal to Strain?
Gastrointestinal Inquiry Hello Dr. Chen, when I go to the bathroom, I feel like I have to strain a bit to pass a small amount of stool, possibly because I didn't eat much for breakfast and lunch. While straining, I feel some movement, but I'm not sure if it's my mu...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
As long as the anus is not protruding, there is no issue, but it is advisable to consume a sufficient amount of fruits and vegetables![Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Is It Normal to Strain?
Is Ascites Always a Sign of Cirrhosis in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients?
If my mother has hepatitis C, does the presence of ascites necessarily indicate cirrhosis? Hello, doctor. My mother had slightly elevated hepatitis C levels three months ago. However, she underwent blood tests, ultrasound, and fetal protein tests at the hospital, all of which wer...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Cooperate with the gastroenterology outpatient clinic for diagnosis, follow-up, and treatment. Simple initial-stage cirrhosis with ascites is not difficult to manage; please follow the physician's medication regimen and limit salt intake.[Read More] Is Ascites Always a Sign of Cirrhosis in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients?
Understanding Pale Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice
The color of feces? Hello doctor, a couple of days ago in the morning after using the restroom, I noticed that the appearance of my stool was off-white, but when I wiped, the color on the toilet paper was a normal yellow-brown. I haven't taken any medications recently, and m...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The normal color of stool is typically yellow, which results from the action of bile and gastrointestinal bacteria. If the stool is grayish-white, it indicates that bile is not able to flow properly into the gastrointestinal tract to form normally colored stool. Liver, gal...[Read More] Understanding Pale Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Sudden Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Sudden pain in the left abdomen? Hello, doctor. I suddenly experienced abdominal pain. Although it’s not very severe, it does hurt a bit when I press on it, and I feel some discomfort when I tense my abdomen. While I was researching online, I noticed that the pain is less frequen...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen, based on the location of your pain, it is possible that you have a fascia strain or intestinal inflammation. We recommend that you consult with an internal medicine physician, family medicine physician, or gastroenterologist for evaluation. Changhua Hospital cares...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Excessive Bowel Movements: Is Your Digestion Healthy?
Bowel issues Hello, Doctor! I am 21 years old and I would like to ask you about an issue I had recently with anal fissures. I have improved my diet by eating a lot of vegetables and having two bananas every day. However, I have noticed that my stool volume has increased significa...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Fruits and vegetables can increase the volume and frequency of bowel movements, which is considered a normal phenomenon. Additionally, it is recommended to limit banana intake to one per day.[Read More] Understanding Excessive Bowel Movements: Is Your Digestion Healthy?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Gastrointestinal issues Hello doctor, in the past six months, I have been experiencing frequent flatulence and occasional belching before meals. My gastrointestinal tract often feels uncomfortable, and I experience cramping pain in my abdomen before bowel movements, which allevia...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello, Miss Lan. 1. Flatulence and belching may be related to your gastrointestinal motility and the bacteria in your intestines. You can try to exercise more, eat more fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of water, and incorporate some probiotics to see if it improves. If there...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Positive FIT Test Results: What You Need to Know
Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) result: positive? Hello, doctor. I previously asked you some questions about stool issues in article #151505. Currently, I am studying abroad and cannot return to Taiwan for an immediate examination. I have seen a doctor here and requested a fecal ...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello, Miss Hsieh. Question 1: I cannot provide the context in which the physician ordered this test, but it is likely intended to check if you have folate deficiency anemia. Question 2: If there is a positive reaction, it is advisable to promptly check for any diseases in th...[Read More] Understanding Positive FIT Test Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding Stool Tests: What Do Positive and Negative Results Mean?
Regarding stool examination? Hello, doctor. Recently, I sought treatment at a nearby clinic due to the flu and took medication for a few days. Later, I experienced difficulty with bowel movements, so I returned for a follow-up. The doctor checked my records and noticed that I had...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The immunological method is more accurate as it specifically tests for the presence of human hemoglobin in stool samples from the colon. The chemical method will yield a positive result if there is any bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, but it is easily influenced by food or...[Read More] Understanding Stool Tests: What Do Positive and Negative Results Mean?
Understanding Narrow Stools: What It Means for Your Digestive Health
Narrowing of stool? I have recently noticed that my stools have become thinner. They come out easily and quickly, and they are brown in color. Sometimes they are a bit thicker, but I feel like they are somewhat poorly formed (sometimes normal). The appearance is loose and resembl...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Increasing vegetable intake can improve health; if there are still concerns, a fecal occult blood test can be performed.[Read More] Understanding Narrow Stools: What It Means for Your Digestive Health
Understanding Constipation: Frequency, Diet, and Abdominal Concerns
Bowel movement issues I would like to ask if having a bowel movement only 1-2 times a week is considered severe constipation. Recently, I ate stir-fried black beans, and after eating them, I had a bowel movement. Is this normal? Also, both my stool and urine are dark grayish-blac...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Having bowel movements 1-2 times a week is not considered severe constipation. Eating legumes can sometimes cause gas and bloating in the gastrointestinal tract. There are many reasons for abdominal distension, such as subcutaneous fat accumulation! Both exercise and diet ...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: Frequency, Diet, and Abdominal Concerns