Left Abdominal Pain Near the Navel: Causes and Concerns
Sharp pain on the left side of the abdomen near the navel? I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and had a colonoscopy last year which revealed hemorrhoids. Currently, I am experiencing stomach pain and chest tightness. Occasionally, when I take medication, it feels like ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, you currently have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with left-sided abdominal pain near the navel, possibly due to muscle or pleural pain. Please pay attention to any changes in your skin. Your medication has been adjusted, and it i...[Read More] Left Abdominal Pain Near the Navel: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux: Concerns About Blood in Stool
Regarding gastroesophageal reflux..? Today, when I wiped after a bowel movement, I noticed a small amount of black on the toilet paper. The stool itself looked fairly normal, a mix of yellow and dark brown. After that, there was no more black on the paper. Two weeks ago, I had an...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, if gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is severe enough to cause esophageal erosion or ulcers, it can certainly lead to bleeding. However, if there are no erosions or ulcers, it is generally unlikely to cause bleeding. As for your stool, my assessment is that it is prob...[Read More] Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux: Concerns About Blood in Stool
Understanding Stool Color Changes: What Does Muddy Brown Mean?
Is the stool clay-colored? Today, I noticed that the front part of my stool was a clay color, while the end was golden yellow. Could constipation cause this? Although I have a bowel movement every day, I don't pass much, and sometimes it's hard to push out. I also have ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. Normal stool can vary in color (with shades of light and dark) or consistency (starting hard and becoming loose). 2. Some medications for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may cause diarrhea or constipation. 3. If you have hemorrhoids, it is important ...[Read More] Understanding Stool Color Changes: What Does Muddy Brown Mean?
Understanding Your Stomach Issues: Should You Test for H. Pylori?
excuse me? Hello, Doctor. I do not have any bad habits such as smoking, drinking alcohol, or chewing betel nut (and neither do my family members). Since February of this year, I have been experiencing discomfort in my stomach. I consulted both a family doctor and a traditional Ch...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: Currently, ultrasound is not appropriate for assessing the stomach, and your gastric symptoms do indeed require an endoscopy. If you have a fear of endoscopy, you may choose a hospital that offers sedation for the procedure. Changhua Hospital cares about your health.[Read More] Understanding Your Stomach Issues: Should You Test for H. Pylori?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: GERD, Gastritis, and Cancer Concerns
Issues related to the stomach? Regarding the previous inquiries about gastrointestinal issues, I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastritis. Following Dr. Chen's advice, I have been taking medications for bloating and antacids, which have shown improvement. Re...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, there is no need for another gastroscopy; please have the physician adjust the medication. Wishing you good health. Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: GERD, Gastritis, and Cancer Concerns
Managing Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Medication Adjustments for Relief
Discomfort in the upper part of the stomach? I previously had gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and after taking medication for a while, my condition improved significantly. Recently, I have been experiencing stomach issues. After each meal, I feel very uncomfortable in my s...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, based on the symptoms, it may be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastritis. It is recommended to discontinue the use of motility agents, continue with the other medications, and add medications for postprandial bloating. Wishing you good health. Dr. Chi-Feng Che...[Read More] Managing Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Medication Adjustments for Relief
Understanding Esophageal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Discomfort in the esophagus? Hello doctor, I had an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy six months ago, and aside from being diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), there were no significant issues. However, in the past few days, I've been experiencing discomfort...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, based on the symptoms, it appears to be a recurrence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Best wishes, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Stool Shapes: Signs of Digestive Issues or Normal Variation?
Regarding the shape of stool? Recently, when I wipe after a bowel movement, I sometimes notice strange-shaped remnants of stool on the toilet paper. Some are elongated, some are hard, and the colors vary from yellow to brown. It feels a bit like indigestion. I had a stool test do...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, based on the symptoms, poor digestive function could be a possible cause. It is advisable to reduce the intake of greasy and spicy foods. Recently avoiding milk should help improve the situation. Even if there are polyps in the colon, after endoscopic removal, it is only n...[Read More] Understanding Stool Shapes: Signs of Digestive Issues or Normal Variation?
Morning Bloating and Hiccups: Is Late-Night Eating to Blame?
Waking up in the morning with a feeling of bloating in the stomach and experiencing hiccups? Hello, doctor. Recently, for the past few weeks, I've been feeling bloated and have the urge to burp when I wake up in the morning. Could this be related to eating before going to be...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, individuals with gastritis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should avoid eating within three hours before bedtime. Please consult a gastroenterologist. Wishing you good health, Dr. Chen Chi-Feng, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Morning Bloating and Hiccups: Is Late-Night Eating to Blame?
Should You Stop Taking PPIs for Acid Reflux? Insights and Risks
Medications for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Due to issues with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), I have been taking the proton pump inhibitor (PPI) prescribed by my doctor for two to three months without any improvement. Later, I came across a report on the Scien...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, according to most current studies, long-term use of PPIs does not cause or worsen gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Dr. Chen Chih-Feng, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Should You Stop Taking PPIs for Acid Reflux? Insights and Risks
Do I Have Acid Reflux? Understanding Symptoms and Solutions
Do I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? I am 18 years old and for the past year or two, I have been experiencing a sensation of something stuck in my throat and frequent burping, where I keep burping air. Occasionally, I burp up food, and sometimes I take deep breaths, ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, the likelihood of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is very high, and you should consult a gastroenterologist for treatment. In principle, you should avoid smoking, alcohol, tea, coffee, spicy foods, glutinous rice, overly sweet or sour foods, cola, soda, and milk tea...[Read More] Do I Have Acid Reflux? Understanding Symptoms and Solutions
Understanding Chest Discomfort: GERD Symptoms and Management
The junction between the stomach and the esophagus often experiences a feeling of pressure or pain? I have symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but I have been feeling much better since taking medication. The chest tightness has improved, but I still frequently exp...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, you have undergone an endoscopy, which should have ruled out the possibility of cancer. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is indeed prone to recurrence and can be easily affected by diet. Wishing you good health. Dr. Chen Chih-Feng, Taoyuan General Hospital, Departmen...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: GERD Symptoms and Management
Managing Morning and Post-Meal Stomach Discomfort: Tips and Insights
Feeling comfortable in the stomach in the morning and after meals? Hello, Doctor. I previously experienced gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastritis. After taking a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) before bed and a gastric antacid after meals for three months, my GERD has i...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: Have you undergone an endoscopy to rule out other issues? If so, you may need to prepare additional symptomatic treatment medications; if the effects are not satisfactory, you can return for an earlier follow-up to adjust the medication. Please limit your intake of ac...[Read More] Managing Morning and Post-Meal Stomach Discomfort: Tips and Insights
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions
Gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about some issues I've been experiencing. About two months ago, I had some discomfort in my stomach, which may have been exacerbated by my sensitivity to stress. For about one to two weeks, I felt continuous sto...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, a complete examination of the gastrointestinal tract has been conducted, and it has been determined that the issue is related to gastrointestinal dysfunction. As long as bowel movements are regular and smooth, the symptoms are likely to improve. It is advisable to maintain...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions
Understanding GERD and Gastritis: Key Differences and Treatment Options
Esophageal reflux and gastritis? Hello, I would like to ask you a few questions: 1. I was diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) at the beginning of January, and three weeks ago, I underwent an endoscopy that showed gastric inflammation. However, typical gastric ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, gastritis can be classified into acute and chronic types. The duration of symptoms in chronic gastritis varies from person to person. Generally speaking, "anti-inflammatory medications" for the stomach are different from "anti-inflammatory medications" ...[Read More] Understanding GERD and Gastritis: Key Differences and Treatment Options
Managing GERD Symptoms: Can I Combine PPI with Antacid Before Bed?
What medications can be taken before bedtime for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? Hello Dr. Chen, I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and experience reflux symptoms at night. My doctor prescribed "Boweikang Zhi Kuiluo" (a PPI) which I have been taking...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, if you are taking a PPI (proton pump inhibitor) in the evening, it is recommended to take it around 9 PM. If one dose is insufficient, it is also suggested to take it twice a day, in the morning and evening. If you are taking a PPI once a day and still feel that acid suppr...[Read More] Managing GERD Symptoms: Can I Combine PPI with Antacid Before Bed?
Effective Treatment Strategies for Acid Reflux: PPI vs H2 Blockers
Treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello: Previously, I asked you about the treatment duration, which is approximately 4 months for mild cases and 1 year or longer for severe cases. I would like to ask you: 1. Is the efficacy of PPIs significantly better than th...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, 1. H2 blockers are far less effective than PPIs in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The treatment duration of four months or one year refers to PPIs. 2. Famotidine and ranitidine are both H2 blockers. GERD is a condition that can easily recur. Af...[Read More] Effective Treatment Strategies for Acid Reflux: PPI vs H2 Blockers
Managing GERD: Transitioning from Nexium to FOMA and Medication Duration
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello: The gastroscopy examination shows NERD... I am currently taking Nexium, and my symptoms are under control (purchased out of pocket)... May I ask when I can gradually switch to FOMA? How long should I take FOMA? Once the symptoms are r...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, generally speaking, the efficacy of PPIs (such as Nexium) far exceeds that of H2 blockers (such as FOMA) for both NERD and GERD. Based on accumulated clinical experience, it is now believed that the role of H2 blockers in reflux esophagitis is diminishing. After symptom re...[Read More] Managing GERD: Transitioning from Nexium to FOMA and Medication Duration
Managing Nighttime Symptoms of GERD: Seeking the Right Specialist
excuse me? It seems that many people, like me, are suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). After undergoing an endoscopy, my doctor informed me that my lower esophageal sphincter is not closing properly, and this condition has significantly affected my quality of l...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, if gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) triggers asthma, resolving the GERD will certainly improve asthma symptoms, but dietary and lifestyle changes must also be implemented. It is important to avoid smoking, alcohol, tea, coffee, spicy foods, glutinous rice, overly swe...[Read More] Managing Nighttime Symptoms of GERD: Seeking the Right Specialist
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: From Esophageal Ulcers to Inflammation
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor: I underwent a comprehensive health check-up last April and was diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but I did not take any medication for treatment. Two weeks ago, I lay down to sleep shortly after taking a capsule with insu...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, you actually have three conditions, which may not necessarily be related: 1. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is asymptomatic and may not require treatment. 2. Esophageal ulcer caused by medication, which can heal with treatment. 3. Acute gastroenteritis with ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: From Esophageal Ulcers to Inflammation