Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: PPI Treatment and GERD Risks
Duodenal ulcer 1. If you previously had a duodenal ulcer diagnosed via endoscopy and your physician prescribed a two-month course of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), it is possible for the physician to prescribe PPIs again if you continue to experience discomfort. Regarding insuran...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello, (1) the reimbursement for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is once every four months. (2) It is still possible to experience gastroesophageal reflux, as the action of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) only raises the pH level; however, the gastric acid remains acidic, just ...[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: PPI Treatment and GERD Risks
Is It GERD? Understanding Your Symptoms and Seeking Help
I would like to ask the doctor if this situation is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about some issues I've been experiencing recently, which started around the beginning of the week. Sometimes, even when I don't feel overly ful...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It could be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or it may be gastritis, peptic ulcer, or delayed gastric emptying. It could even be related to intestinal bloating (including gas or retained stool). It is recommended to avoid tea, coffee, smoking, and alcohol, and to ea...[Read More] Is It GERD? Understanding Your Symptoms and Seeking Help
Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms and Management Insights
Duodenal ulcer Hello doctor, I recently underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and was diagnosed with a duodenal ulcer, with no Helicobacter pylori present. I am currently taking a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), but sometimes I feel a dull discomfort above the xiphoid proces...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It could also be a case of indigestion or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Additionally, if there is fecal impaction, it may lead to excessive gas in the intestines. Please pay attention to your diet; even after taking medication, you should be cautious in your food...[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms and Management Insights
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions
Gastrointestinal and bowel issues? I have been experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort for several years. Three years ago, I underwent a colonoscopy and had several polyps removed. About nine months ago, I had a stool occult blood test that came back normal, and an upper endosco...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Dear Mr. Cong, You had colorectal polyps a few years ago, and it is recommended that you continue to follow up with a colonoscopy rather than using fecal occult blood tests for monitoring. Your symptoms sound like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Gastroenteritis usually resolves...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions
Understanding Long-Term Gastroesophageal Reflux and Its Risks
Chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello Doctor, I visited for a consultation in mid-September last year due to persistent chest discomfort after meals, and I underwent an endoscopy. The doctor found an ulcer and performed a biopsy. The report indicated some changes c...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: There is no need to worry too much. Barrett's esophagus is a condition caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where the squamous epithelium of the esophagus is replaced by columnar epithelium from the stomach. This does not indicate cancer. It is advisable ...[Read More] Understanding Long-Term Gastroesophageal Reflux and Its Risks
Understanding Your Nausea: Possible Causes and Concerns for Young Adults
I'm not sure what the problem is? Hello doctor, I am 20 years old and since mid-December of last year, I have frequently experienced feelings of nausea (it feels like something is stuck in my stomach and throat, but I have managed to hold it in). This has been happening occa...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Basically, this will not result in pregnancy. You should pay attention to whether your symptoms are related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is recommended to reduce coffee and tea consumption, eat regular and portion-controlled meals, and avoid excessive stre...[Read More] Understanding Your Nausea: Possible Causes and Concerns for Young Adults
Understanding Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Pharyngeal acid reflux Hello Doctor, I underwent a sleep study and found that I have a low AHI and high RDI, indicating nighttime respiratory resistance. The doctor mentioned that one possible reason could be gastroesophageal reflux affecting the airway resistance. I recall that ...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Dear Anonymous, it is recommended that you visit a hospital to consult with a gastroenterologist for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which can assess gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Changhua Hospital cares about your health.[Read More] Understanding Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello, Doctor. I started experiencing bloating and stomach pain in early December 2015. Initially, the bloating and pain persisted throughout the day. I then visited a family physician, who diagnosed me with gastritis and dyspepsia and presc...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: If you still experience discomfort despite general medication treatment and dietary adjustments, please visit a gastroenterologist for an examination to confirm if there are any other issues. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Chest Pain and Breathing Issues in GERD Patients
Chest pain and shortness of breath, GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)? I have a history of chest pain, and after examinations, heart disease was ruled out. I was later diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and have been on medication. However, recently, due t...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Since it has been confirmed that there are no heart issues, it is likely that gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the primary concern. Acid reflux cannot be completely cured; it is essential to adjust lifestyle and dietary habits. This includes quitting smoking, avoi...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Breathing Issues in GERD Patients
Understanding Heartburn: Causes, Treatments, and Dietary Tips
Regarding heartburn? Hello Doctor: Thank you for taking the time to respond despite your busy schedule. I have been experiencing stomach discomfort, heartburn, and have been taking medication for over a month. Initially, due to stomach discomfort, I occasionally had heartburn, an...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) You can eat things that may not make you feel comfortable, but you should try to avoid drinking tea, coffee, soda, eating chocolate, sweets, glutinous rice products, high-fat/high-protein foods, overeating, smoking, drinking alcohol, chewing betel nut/gum, or allowing ...[Read More] Understanding Heartburn: Causes, Treatments, and Dietary Tips
Understanding Esophageal Reflux: Managing Symptoms and Treatment Concerns
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello Dr. Tsai, I have a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for 10 years and have been regularly seeing a doctor at National Taiwan University Hospital for endoscopies and medication. My symptoms include excessive stomach acid...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) If the reflux improves, esophagitis can be reversible, so it is possible to return to grade A. (2) I believe the so-called "skin breakdown" likely refers to gastritis or duodenitis, which can have many causes, not solely related to antibiotics. (3) If excessi...[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Reflux: Managing Symptoms and Treatment Concerns
Can You Take Lansoprazole Before Bed for Acid Reflux?
Can lansoprazole be taken before bedtime? Hello, doctor! I would like to ask if lansoprazole, which is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and mild esophagitis, can be taken on an empty stomach before bedtime? I noticed that the instructions state to take it one ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Li: Yes, I often use it for nighttime reflux (due to lying flat) before bed. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Can You Take Lansoprazole Before Bed for Acid Reflux?
Managing Gastrointestinal Issues: Concerns About Short-Term Medication Use
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor, I previously inquired about my throat and esophageal discomfort, but I still feel uneasy. I also don’t have enough time to visit a large hospital, so today I paid out of pocket for an endoscopy. I had a complete health check-up in June, inclu...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, ulcerative gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are both related to excessive gastric acid. Taking medication for just one week is insufficient. A proton pump inhibitor (PPI), such as Lansoprazole (which is included in your medication), should be used for 6...[Read More] Managing Gastrointestinal Issues: Concerns About Short-Term Medication Use
Understanding Nausea and Chest Discomfort After Drinking Tea and Soda
Nausea and chest tightness? Hello Dr. Chen, I feel nauseous and have chest tightness whenever I drink tea or soda. In cold weather or when the air quality is poor, I occasionally experience a dry cough and difficulty breathing. Could you please explain what might be wrong with my...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. If there are accompanying symptoms such as acid reflux and belching, the likelihood of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is very high. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Ga...[Read More] Understanding Nausea and Chest Discomfort After Drinking Tea and Soda
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Lower abdominal pain issues? Doctor, I have been experiencing frequent dull pain in my lower abdomen for a year, especially after eating. I feel the urge to pass gas and have a bowel movement, but the pain is not unbearable. I have a bowel movement once or twice a day, sometimes ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, in order to diagnose irritable bowel syndrome, it is necessary to first rule out other organic diseases. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Irregular Bowel Movements: What to Do?
Loose stools with mild pain around the navel? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing some pain around my navel when I apply slight pressure with my fingers. Normally, it's just a mild discomfort that isn't unbearable, but it's quite bothersome. It sho...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: (1) You should consult a gastroenterologist, who will determine whether you need an upper endoscopy or a colonoscopy. (2) The shape of your stool is influenced by the types of food you eat and the speed of intestinal movement. (3) Borborygmi is the sound produced by the mo...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Irregular Bowel Movements: What to Do?
Why Can't I Burp? Understanding Gas and Gastroesophageal Issues
I feel like I need to burp, but I can't? Hello Doctor, recently I often feel like I want to burp but can't, and it feels like gas is rising up. This symptom has persisted for over a month. When I take medication for bloating, I can burp and feel more comfortable, but af...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The symptoms you described, whether it is gastroesophageal reflux, dyspepsia, constipation, slow intestinal motility, or peptic ulcers, can all present similar symptoms. It is advisable to reduce the intake of high-fat, high-protein foods, caffeinated beverages, and sweets...[Read More] Why Can't I Burp? Understanding Gas and Gastroesophageal Issues
How Long Does Esophagitis Take to Progress to Cancer?
How long does it take for esophagitis to develop into cancer? Hello Doctor: I previously inquired about the timeline for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) potentially progressing to gastric cancer or esophageal cancer. Based on past experiences and average values, is it poss...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Most will not.[Read More] How Long Does Esophagitis Take to Progress to Cancer?
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes, Remedies, and When to Seek Help
Abdominal pain Hello Doctor: I have digestive issues, experiencing bloating after meals. I'm not very picky with food, but I do suffer from constipation, having a bowel movement at least once a week (perhaps due to insufficient intake of water, vegetables, and fruits). I...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If taking gastric medication improves your condition, it may be related to acid-related diseases such as gastritis, gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is advisable to undergo an endoscopy and consult a gastroenterologist to deter...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes, Remedies, and When to Seek Help
Average Time for GERD to Progress to Esophageal or Stomach Cancer
The average time for the development of cancer can vary widely depending on the type of cancer and individual factors. Generally, it can take several years to decades for cancer to develop from precancerous changes to a fully malignant tumor? Hello Dr. Chen: I would like to ask a...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, gastroesophageal reflux can lead to Barrett's esophagus, which may subsequently develop into adenocarcinoma. The time frame for cancer development varies depending on factors such as race, genetic predisposition, individual constitution, and the severity of esophagiti...[Read More] Average Time for GERD to Progress to Esophageal or Stomach Cancer