Understanding Tumor Markers: CA 19-9 and Gastrointestinal Health
Tumor markers Hello, on May 25th, I had a check-up with a colorectal specialist due to blood in my stool, and the cause of the bleeding was identified as an anal fissure. I also requested a colonoscopy, which is scheduled for June 14th. On May 25th, I had blood tests and an X-ray...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The accuracy of CA 19-9 is low (with many false positives), making it unsuitable for screening or diagnosis; it should only be used for postoperative monitoring, so there is no need to worry at this time. You can proceed with the endoscopy first and then schedule an appointment w...[Read More] Understanding Tumor Markers: CA 19-9 and Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Gas Interference in Abdominal Ultrasound Imaging
Gas in abdominal ultrasound? The abdominal ultrasound report indicates that the pancreas is "partially masked by gas," which means that the presence of gas is obstructing a clear view of the pancreas. This does not specifically indicate any problems with the pancreas it...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Yes, the pancreas can be obscured by gastrointestinal air.[Read More] Understanding Gas Interference in Abdominal Ultrasound Imaging
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Cryptosporidiosis Infection
Inquiries related to excretion issues? On April 17, I experienced severe diarrhea. On May 2, due to persistent wiping of stool with mucus, I sought medical attention at Taipei Veterans General Hospital. Blood tests indicated an infection with Cryptosporidiosis, while stool tests ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Sorry, there is no experience in treating this infection. Please discuss with the attending physician.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Cryptosporidiosis Infection
Understanding Digestive Issues: Causes of Diarrhea and Blood in Stool
Bowel issues Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing some bowel issues in the past few days. On the first day, I only had one bowel movement, and the stool was somewhat loose. However, when I wiped, there was a bit of blood on the toilet paper (the process was somewhat painful, an...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
It is recommended to see a gastroenterologist for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Causes of Diarrhea and Blood in Stool
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Is Your Symptoms a Sign of Colon Cancer?
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor: I previously visited a doctor due to diarrhea, abdominal bloating, and gastric distension. The doctor prescribed medication to try, but after taking it, I developed constipation, and my gastrointestinal motility seems to have decreased. Addit...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Mr. Anonymous: Changes in stool consistency can be caused by many factors and are not necessarily indicative of colorectal cancer. The shape of the stool is influenced by various factors including diet, hydration, exercise, stress, and medications. It is advisable to discus...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Is Your Symptoms a Sign of Colon Cancer?
Understanding Diarrhea and Anal Discomfort During Menstruation
Frequent diarrhea and anal discomfort? Hello, Doctor: I am currently on my period, and I often experience diarrhea during my menstrual cycle, usually about 1-2 times a day. This time, I may have eaten something bad and have had diarrhea seven times, with very watery stools that s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Diarrhea during menstruation is a common issue for many women, which may be related to increased intestinal motility caused by hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. However, if the situation is more severe, it could be due to improper diet or gastrointestinal infection. ...[Read More] Understanding Diarrhea and Anal Discomfort During Menstruation
Understanding Black Stool: Causes and Dietary Influences Explained
Bowel-related issues? Hello, Doctor: Since last night, I have been experiencing some bloating. Today, during bowel movements, my stool color was normal, but I noticed some black material while wiping (about one and a half tissues worth). Reflecting on my recent diet, the dark foo...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Yes, the color of your stool may be influenced by foods consumed two days ago. Dark foods, such as spinach and pigments found in black tea, can cause black substances in your stool. You may continue to observe this (avoid eating spinach for now to prevent interference).[Read More] Understanding Black Stool: Causes and Dietary Influences Explained
Potential Risks of Overdosing Gastrointestinal Medications: What You Need to Know
Taking the prescribed medication more than once at the same time? Medication Consultation: Gaslan 40mg (take after meals, twice daily) and Mopride 5mg (gastrointestinal medication, take after meals, twice daily). If I forgot whether I took my medication and ended up taking more t...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Gaslan 40mg is indicated for the relief of bloating and alleviation of symptoms associated with gas. Mopride 5mg is a gastrointestinal medication indicated for discomfort caused by abnormal gastrointestinal motility, including symptoms such as epigastric burning, nausea, and vomi...[Read More] Potential Risks of Overdosing Gastrointestinal Medications: What You Need to Know
Unformed Stool and Diarrhea: When to Seek Gastrointestinal Evaluation?
Loose stools, diarrhea? Hello, doctor. Three years ago, I had an appendectomy. My bowel movements were normal (once a day, formed stools) until a little over a month ago when my stools became unformed. Sometimes they are loose and fragmented, and other times I experience watery d...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
It is recommended to maintain a light diet and pay attention to food hygiene. If symptoms persist, it is advisable to visit a major hospital for gastrointestinal examinations. Wishing you good health![Read More] Unformed Stool and Diarrhea: When to Seek Gastrointestinal Evaluation?
Understanding Chronic Morning Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Long-term abdominal pain upon waking up in the morning? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing abdominal discomfort for a long time (about 3-4 years). I often feel pain in the area about three fingerbreadths to the left of my navel when I wake up in the morning. This pain is not ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is advisable to first undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to rule out any gastric issues. Additionally, please avoid tea (black tea/green tea/milk tea), coffee, chocolate, sweets, spicy foods, fried foods, high-fat, and high-protein foods. Changhua Hospital care...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Morning Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Your Gastrointestinal Health: Risks and Follow-Up Care
Issues related to gastrointestinal endoscopy? First of all, thank you very much for your response, Doctor. I still have some concerns regarding my previous question that I would like to clarify. You mentioned that my colonoscopy and gastroscopy results were normal, which is good ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It has been calculated since the last examination date. Additionally, further weight loss can also reduce the risk of cancer.[Read More] Understanding Your Gastrointestinal Health: Risks and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Gastrointestinal Concerns: Anxiety, Fatigue, and Cancer Risks
Gastrointestinal issues consultation? Hello Doctor, I am a 41-year-old male, 172 cm tall and weighing 80 kg. I have been suffering from anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and hypochondriasis for over ten years. I have long-term issues with fatigue and poor sleep qua...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
First of all, it's understandable to have concerns. However, based on the information you provided, your colonoscopy and gastroscopy results are normal, which is good news and indicates no cancer risk in the short term (1-3 years). It is advisable to collaborate with a menta...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Concerns: Anxiety, Fatigue, and Cancer Risks
Understanding Oral Papillomas: Causes, Detection, and Recurrence Rates
Oral papilloma Recently, I experienced stomach pain, loss of appetite, and a foreign body sensation in my mouth. Despite taking medication, there was no improvement. I subsequently underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which revealed a Helicobacter pylori infection that ...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Ms. Wu: 1. The reason for the first time not being the same as the second time may require you to consult your physician for further confirmation. 2. HPV polyps may indicate an HPV infection; it is recommended to consult an infectious disease specialist. Director Cai Jin-ji...[Read More] Understanding Oral Papillomas: Causes, Detection, and Recurrence Rates
Possible Causes of Cloudy Stool Without Diarrhea: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Bowel issues If you notice that your stool has become watery and cloudy, it could be due to several reasons, even if you are not experiencing diarrhea. Possible causes may include dietary changes, dehydration, or the presence of undigested food. Additionally, it could indicate an...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Further observation is recommended. If there are any concerns, please visit the hepatobiliary and gastroenterology outpatient clinic. Thank you.[Read More] Possible Causes of Cloudy Stool Without Diarrhea: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Sudden Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation
Sudden changes in bowel habits with no abnormalities found upon examination? Hello, doctor. I have a bowel movement once a day. Since the end of January this year, I have noticed that my stool has become softer and wetter than before. Previously, my stools were more formed, resem...
Dr. Luo Yining Reply:
According to the Bristol Stool Scale, stool can be classified into seven types, with types three and four being the ideal stool forms. Type three stool is sausage-shaped but has cracks on the surface (similar to the bowel habits you described in the past), while your current bowe...[Read More] Sudden Changes in Bowel Habits: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation
Understanding Fundic Gland Polyps: What You Need to Know After Your Endoscopy
Fundic gland polyp Hello Doctor: I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy last week and found a gastric polyp approximately 1 cm in size. This week, I received the report indicating it is a fundic gland polyp. The report states: MICROSCOPIC DESCRIPTION: The section shows a...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
This report indicates gastric fundic gland polyps, with no intestinal metaplasia, no Helicobacter pylori, no cellular atypia, and no malignancy. You can rest assured. Please follow up as per medical advice. Wishing you good health![Read More] Understanding Fundic Gland Polyps: What You Need to Know After Your Endoscopy
Persistent Gas and Bloating While Sitting: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues
Frequent flatulence while sitting for extended periods? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing these symptoms for about three years now. Whenever I sit at school, I often feel the urge to pass gas, burp, and my stomach feels bloated. These occurrences happen very frequently. Ini...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It's just normal flatulence; you can reduce the intake of gas-producing foods in your daily diet.[Read More] Persistent Gas and Bloating While Sitting: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues
Do All Patients with Stomach Ulcers Need Biopsies?
Questions related to gastric ulcer biopsy? Last week, I had an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and the doctor mentioned that I have a mild gastric ulcer, but he said a biopsy is needed for confirmation. I would like to ask if it is common for patients with gastric ulcers to req...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A convenient biopsy will be performed to obtain approximately 0.5 cm of gastric mucosal tissue for pathological examination.[Read More] Do All Patients with Stomach Ulcers Need Biopsies?
Understanding Stomach Polyps: Are They Always Benign?
The issue of gastric polyps? Hello Doctor: Last week, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and the doctor mentioned that I have a polyp approximately 1 cm in size, which is benign and has been removed. Can you confirm that it is indeed benign? Is there a possibility t...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Most gastric polyps are benign. If they are too large, or if there are complications such as ulceration, bleeding, or obstruction, appropriate management is required. The physician has provided the necessary treatment. It is advised not to worry too much. Follow-up in the outpati...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Polyps: Are They Always Benign?
Understanding Constipation: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Health
Constipation issues? Hello Doctor, I have been struggling with constipation for the past two months. My bowel movements occur approximately every three days, and they are usually hard and difficult to pass. In terms of diet, I have been eating very healthily during these two mont...
Dr. Luo Yining Reply:
There are many factors that can trigger constipation, including insufficient intake of fiber and water, prolonged sitting, changes in environment, medication use, structural abnormalities of the colon, or endocrine disorders, among others. Any persistent changes in bowel habits, ...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Health