Understanding Helicobacter Pylori Testing: Breath vs. Blood Methods
What are the methods for measuring Helicobacter pylori in the stomach? 1. The blood test for Helicobacter pylori can indicate the presence of the bacteria, but it is not definitive for confirming its absence. False negatives can occur, especially if the infection has been treated...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: 1. Blood tests can only determine if there has been an infection in the past, so blood tests after antibacterial treatment may not be accurate. 2. The breath test indicates whether there is an active infection, making it suitable for testing both before and after trea...[Read More] Understanding Helicobacter Pylori Testing: Breath vs. Blood Methods
Addressing Duodenal Ulcer Treatment Challenges: A Patient's Journey
Duodenal ulcer treatment issues? Hello Doctor, I went to the hospital in early March due to stomach pain and unexpectedly found out I have a duodenal ulcer after undergoing an endoscopy. After a month of treatment with Tegoprazan, I experienced persistent anxiety, palpitations, i...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, 1. At least 90% of cases of duodenal ulcers are associated with Helicobacter pylori, which is why some physicians may initiate triple therapy without testing for the bacteria. Simply taking amoxicillin is not sufficient; if the medication is inappropriate, other antibiot...[Read More] Addressing Duodenal Ulcer Treatment Challenges: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Bad Breath: Is It Linked to Gastrointestinal Issues?
Could you please advise if the bad breath issue is caused by gastrointestinal problems? Hello, Doctor: I have been struggling with chronic bad breath for many years. The unpleasant odor in my mouth seems to be emanating from within my body. Even after I clean my mouth, the bad br...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: Please first have your dental health and periodontal disease confirmed by a dentist, and then consider a self-funded bacterial test (blood test). If the result is positive, you may consider self-funded antimicrobial treatment. Changhua Hospital cares about your healt...[Read More] Understanding Bad Breath: Is It Linked to Gastrointestinal Issues?
Understanding Stomach Issues: Causes of Inflammation and Bowel Changes
Gastric issues? Hello Doctor: I previously consulted a physician and underwent an endoscopy, during which the doctor indicated that I have gastritis and prescribed medication that I have been taking. However, since experiencing discomfort in my stomach, my bowel movements have no...
Dr. You Ligang Reply:
Hello, discomfort in the stomach can have many causes. You have already undergone an endoscopy to rule out peptic ulcers, but some conditions may not be visible through an endoscopy, such as Helicobacter pylori infection, gastroesophageal reflux disease, functional dyspepsia, or ...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Issues: Causes of Inflammation and Bowel Changes
Understanding Stomach Issues: Symptoms of Possible Gastric Bleeding
About the stomach? In the past few weeks, I have been experiencing discomfort in my stomach, accompanied by a metallic taste in my mouth and slight traces of blood in my saliva. Could this indicate a gastric bleed? Additionally, over the past two days, I have felt dizzy when hung...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, symptoms of gastric bleeding include not only hematemesis but also melena, hematochezia, anemia, and tachycardia. Therefore, the absence of gastrointestinal symptoms related to stool may indicate that it is not gastric bleeding. Additionally, if a patient experiences gastr...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Issues: Symptoms of Possible Gastric Bleeding
Understanding Multiple Ulcers in the Stomach and Duodenum: Symptoms and Treatment
Multiple ulcers of the stomach and duodenum? Hello doctor, I recently visited my usual clinic due to discomfort in my throat. This same symptom has occurred two to three times over the past 1 to 2 years. The doctor suggested I undergo an endoscopy because he suspected gastroesoph...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: Generally speaking, the symptoms and examination results described should not indicate a serious illness. The effectiveness of medication treatment should be satisfactory. Ulcers do not always cause pain (about 1 in 5 cases), and as long as you complete the medication...[Read More] Understanding Multiple Ulcers in the Stomach and Duodenum: Symptoms and Treatment
Understanding the Connection Between Acid Reflux and Post-Nasal Drip
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Since February of last year, I have been experiencing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). After undergoing an endoscopy in April, I began taking medication, which I have continued to this day. In December of last year, I had ...
Dr. You Ligang Reply:
Hello, the factors contributing to acid reflux involve the backflow of gastric acid or stomach contents into the esophagus, resulting in uncomfortable symptoms such as chest tightness, a burning sensation in the chest, and a feeling of a foreign body in the throat. If there are n...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Acid Reflux and Post-Nasal Drip
How to Tackle Bad Breath: Expert Advice for a Confident Smile
Hello, Dr. Chen! My mom said I have bad breath, which makes me feel really embarrassed. I hesitate to get too close to my friends when I talk, especially after eating. This issue of "bad breath" has been bothering me for a long time! I know there are many causes of bad ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Xiao Wei: First, please visit a dentist to check your dental condition (such as periodontal disease). Additionally, you may want to see an otolaryngologist (to check for sinusitis). Finally, if necessary, you can consult a gastroenterologist to check for Helicobacter py...[Read More] How to Tackle Bad Breath: Expert Advice for a Confident Smile
Persistent Bad Breath: Understanding Causes and Treatment Options
Distress Hello Doctor: I have been troubled by a frustrating issue for the past five years; I have a problem with halitosis. Regardless of whether I brush my teeth or not, my breath is always foul, and people are hesitant to talk to me, which is difficult to address. I am only 28...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen, Halitosis is a bothersome issue that can persist even with good oral hygiene, and despite not smoking or drinking alcohol. It is advisable to avoid irritant foods such as garlic, as some cases of halitosis are related to anaerobic bacteria in the oral cavity. The ...[Read More] Persistent Bad Breath: Understanding Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Persistent Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Issues
Halitosis Hello Doctor: I have been troubled by a persistent issue for the past five years; I have a problem with halitosis. Regardless of whether I brush my teeth or not, the odor remains strong, and people are hesitant to talk to me, which is difficult to address. I am only 28 ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Chen: We still recommend discussing your halitosis issue with a dentist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Persistent Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Bad Breath: Causes, Solutions, and Medical Insights
Halitosis Hello Doctor, I have been troubled by a persistent issue for the past five years: I suffer from halitosis. Regardless of whether I brush my teeth or not, the odor remains, and people are hesitant to talk to me, which is difficult to address. I am only 28 years old, do...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Chen: If there are no oral issues, you can test for Helicobacter pylori (blood test costs about 300 NTD), followed by eradication treatment (approximately over 2000 NTD). Gastroenterology clinics offer this service, but it may not necessarily eliminate bad breath. Chang...[Read More] Understanding Bad Breath: Causes, Solutions, and Medical Insights
Managing Gastritis: Seeking Relief from Bloating and Treatment Options
Gastritis Dear Deputy Director, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and the results indicated gastritis. I was prescribed medication for two weeks, and I have been taking it for one week now, but I don't feel any improvement. I don't have stomach pain, jus...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
The ingredients of IGY are egg yolk powder, lactose, oligosaccharides, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, and silicon dioxide. IGY is likely ineffective. The diagnostic methods for Helicobacter pylori can be found at: http://www.wedar.com/library/hpylori.htm. Please ...[Read More] Managing Gastritis: Seeking Relief from Bloating and Treatment Options
Understanding Gastroscopy: Addressing Concerns for Chronic Ulcer Patients
Gastroscopy Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you a question. My mother has a long-term chronic gastric ulcer and has experienced severe pain that required emergency care. Since it has been a long time since her last examination, the doctor wanted to schedule an endoscopy for her...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Peptic ulcers, which are not painful during endoscopy, most commonly include gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers. It is estimated that about 10% of the general population will experience a peptic ulcer at some point in their lives. Causes: The etiology of peptic ulcers is quite ...[Read More] Understanding Gastroscopy: Addressing Concerns for Chronic Ulcer Patients
Understanding Treatment for Helicobacter Pylori Infection: Dosage and Interactions
Issues related to medication for Helicobacter pylori infection? Dear Sir, 1. Today, I visited the gastroenterologist due to a Helicobacter pylori infection. The doctor prescribed Esomeprazole 40 mg (once daily) + Clarithromycin 500 mg (twice daily) + Amoxicillin 250 mg (four cap...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Michael: It is accurate, precise, and advanced, so please feel assured to take the medication! There may be gastrointestinal side effects (mebeverine can help alleviate discomfort). If there are no major issues, please complete the course to enhance the success rate. Ch...[Read More] Understanding Treatment for Helicobacter Pylori Infection: Dosage and Interactions
The Importance and Methods of Treating Helicobacter Pylori Infections
The necessity and methods of Helicobacter pylori treatment? Hello Dr. Chen, My husband’s health check revealed an excessive amount of Helicobacter pylori, with a level of 12.62. He does not have any specific discomfort, but his gastrointestinal system is quite sensitive, and he ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mrs. Ji, 1. Helicobacter pylori is quite common, with approximately half of the population in Taiwan being infected. There is no need to panic, as it is not related to diarrhea but is associated with gastric ulcers and gastric cancer. 2. If you wish to eradicate the bacter...[Read More] The Importance and Methods of Treating Helicobacter Pylori Infections
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Heart Surgery: When to Seek Help
Hello? Dear Vice Dean Tsai, My father underwent a cardiac catheterization procedure recently and has been experiencing frequent abdominal bloating, which has led him to eat very little. He hasn't had a bowel movement for the past two days, and today while trying to defecate...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
If it is not gastric bleeding, immediate consultation with a colorectal surgeon is necessary, as the bleeding may be caused by hemorrhoids. A sigmoidoscopy can provide answers. Below is information related to gastric bleeding: Symptoms may include the presence of blood in vomit ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Heart Surgery: When to Seek Help
What to Do If You Have High Helicobacter Pylori Levels?
What should I do if my Helicobacter pylori levels are high? Hello, Doctor! Recently, I had a health check-up, and through a blood test, it was found that my Helicobacter pylori level is as high as 69.3 (normal range 0-6)! However, I haven't experienced severe stomach pain la...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: Helicobacter pylori infection is quite common, and in Taiwan, it may affect up to half of the population. Helicobacter pylori can potentially cause ulcers. As for stomach cancer, it can be left untreated for now; however, if you are very concerned, you can consult a physic...[Read More] What to Do If You Have High Helicobacter Pylori Levels?
Is CA72-4 a Reliable Cancer Marker? Understanding Your Test Results
Is CA74-4 really important? Hello, Doctor. Six months ago, I experienced stomach discomfort and blood tests revealed a Helicobacter pylori level of 132. The gastric cancer screening showed CEA at 0.93 and CA19-9 at 4.54, but CA72-4 was slightly elevated at 8.51 (normal value <...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: 1. Both gastric biopsy and breath tests have good sensitivity for detecting Helicobacter pylori. If both tests are negative, it is unlikely that there is an active Helicobacter pylori infection, unless you have recently taken antibiotics or proton pump inhibitors. If ser...[Read More] Is CA72-4 a Reliable Cancer Marker? Understanding Your Test Results
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Digestive Health and Treatment
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor: Since January of this year, my bowel movements have not been normal. Each time I have a bowel movement, there are many undigested food particles, and the shape is quite abnormal. I have also noticeably lost weight and feel easily fatigued. My...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: If there is a significant weight loss (more than 10% of the original body weight) but appetite remains good, it may be necessary to consider hyperthyroidism or diabetes. If diarrhea is also present, issues related to small intestine absorption or pancreatic digestion shoul...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights on Digestive Health and Treatment
Understanding Side Effects of Helicobacter Pylori Treatment
Side effects of consuming anti-Helicobacter pylori medications? Hello Dr. Chen: I recently underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at the hospital, where I was diagnosed with Helicobacter pylori infection and gastric inflammation. I have been taking the prescribed medicatio...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1) Uric acid is not related to frequent urination. 2) Please discuss medication and potential side effects with the prescribing physician.[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Helicobacter Pylori Treatment