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 Helicobacter Pylori Treatment: Two-Week Medication Plan Explained
Helicobacter pylori Hello, doctor! I went to see a physician for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and found that I have Helicobacter pylori and gastroesophageal reflux disease, along with issues related to gastric acid. The doctor prescribed a two-week treatment regimen for er...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
First-line standard triple therapy: One proton pump inhibitor, twice daily; Clarithromycin 500 mg, twice daily; Amoxicillin 1 g (or Metronidazole 500 mg), twice daily for 7 to 14 days. Sequential therapy: One proton pump inhibitor, twice daily; Amoxicillin 1 g, twice daily for ...[Read More] Understanding Helicobacter Pylori Treatment: Two-Week Medication Plan Explained
Can You Take Probiotics While Treating H. Pylori with Antibiotics?
Issues with Antibiotic Use Hello, Doctor! 1. Can I take probiotics while on the triple therapy for Helicobacter pylori? For example, can I take products like Synlogic (containing 3 strains), Yuan Zheng Intestinal Tablets (containing 3 strains), or Grape King 8 Probiotics (conta...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello: (1) It is recommended to stop using probiotics for now, as taking them at this time may not allow them to be effective. (2) Please follow the instructions on the package. (3) Drink an adequate amount of water. Changhua Hospital cares about your health.[Read More] Can You Take Probiotics While Treating H. Pylori with Antibiotics?
Concerns About Clarithromycin Resistance in H. Pylori Treatment
I have taken Clarithromycin for 4 years and 10 months, and now there are duplicate medications in the three-in-one combination? First, I would like to mention that I took Clarithromycin (Klaricid) prescribed by a pulmonologist for 4 days (250 mg twice daily) nearly 4 years and 10...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello: Antibiotics do not develop resistance simply because they have been used once. Therefore, it is sufficient to choose one provider. Changhua Hospital cares about your health.[Read More] Concerns About Clarithromycin Resistance in H. Pylori Treatment
Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Treatment Challenges and Kidney Concerns
Duodenal ulcer issues? Since being diagnosed with a duodenal ulcer without Helicobacter pylori in April of this year, I have been on ulcer medication for six months and have undergone two endoscopies (the second still showed the ulcer). I have also switched medications three time...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
It is advisable to consult your treating physician for a clearer understanding of your condition.[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Treatment Challenges and Kidney Concerns
Can High Doses of Amoxicillin Effectively Eradicate H. Pylori?
Can medications for Helicobacter pylori eradicate the bacteria? Hello Dr. Tsai: Following up on the previous question, I underwent a breath test for Helicobacter pylori at a teaching hospital, and the results indicated that it was not eradicated. Therefore, the physician has requ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Amoxicillin is metabolized by the kidneys, and if kidney function is normal, it should not affect future liver or kidney function. The success of treatment may depend on the drug concentration; increasing the dosage is intended to enhance therapeutic levels. Additionally, ...[Read More] Can High Doses of Amoxicillin Effectively Eradicate H. Pylori?
Can Antibiotics Effectively Eradicate Helicobacter Pylori Infections?
Can medications for Helicobacter pylori effectively eradicate the bacteria? Hello Dr. Tsai, The examination revealed the presence of Helicobacter pylori. I have already been on anti-H. pylori treatment with Tetracycline, taking two tablets daily for two weeks, but it did not era...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
First-line (1) standard triple therapy: One proton pump inhibitor (PPI) taken twice daily, Clarithromycin 500 mg taken twice daily, and Amoxicillin 1 g (or Metronidazole 500 mg) taken twice daily. (2) Sequential therapy: One PPI taken twice daily, Amoxicillin 1 g taken twice dail...[Read More] Can Antibiotics Effectively Eradicate Helicobacter Pylori Infections?
Persistent Hiccups: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Persistent hiccups? Hello, I have been experiencing hiccups for over five months. What could be the cause? I have already been to Chiayi St. Martin Hospital for an examination, but the doctor told me he couldn't find the reason. (I am currently taking medication to treat Hel...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: Hiccups may not always have a discernible cause, but symptom management can be implemented while continuously monitoring for any further changes. If necessary, additional examinations can be considered based on the situation. Changhua Hospital cares about your health...[Read More] Persistent Hiccups: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding GERD and PPI Side Effects: Seeking Effective Solutions
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and the side effects of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)? Hello Doctor, my mother has been struggling with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for nearly a year and has lost 7-10 kilograms. In March of this year, she underwent an upper endos...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, in addition to using PPIs for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is important to adopt dietary and lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol and tobacco consumption, limiting coffee, tea, and spicy foods, avoiding glutinous rice dishes, and steering clear of overl...[Read More] Understanding GERD and PPI Side Effects: Seeking Effective Solutions
Impact of Delayed Clarithromycin on Triple Therapy for Stomach Ulcers
The two antibiotics for Helicobacter pylori in the treatment of gastric ulcers were not started simultaneously? Hello Dr. Tsai! I have been diagnosed with a gastric ulcer and Helicobacter pylori. After consulting with a doctor, I was prescribed Takepron OD (before breakfast), Amo...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It should not have a significant impact. It is recommended to complete the Clarithromycin that is taken more slowly according to the prescribed method. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Impact of Delayed Clarithromycin on Triple Therapy for Stomach Ulcers
Understanding Bad Breath: Exploring Causes and Potential Solutions
Halitosis issues? I have been experiencing bad breath for several years. After researching online, I found that Helicobacter pylori infection might cause bad breath. Therefore, I went to a local lab to get a blood test to check for H. pylori infection, and the results showed that...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Dear Mr. Ming, Oral malodor may originate from the oral cavity, lungs, or gastrointestinal tract. The unpleasant odor is often caused by bacterial fermentation, which may explain the reduction in odor you experienced while taking antibiotics. However, a negative blood test for H...[Read More] Understanding Bad Breath: Exploring Causes and Potential Solutions
Persistent Bloating and Discomfort: Is It Just GERD or Something More?
For the past six months, I have been experiencing constant bloating, belching, difficulty breathing, and it is also accompanied by nausea and loose stools? For the past six months, I have been experiencing constant bloating, belching, and shortness of breath. Sometimes I feel nau...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: It appears that you have a disorder of gastrointestinal motility, so medication treatment and dietary adjustments are still necessary. The necessity of continuing the PPI can be discussed with your physician. Additionally, it may be worthwhile to check for any liver, ...[Read More] Persistent Bloating and Discomfort: Is It Just GERD or Something More?
Managing Helicobacter Pylori Treatment for Duodenal Ulcer Recurrence
Regarding the dosage of antibiotics for Helicobacter pylori eradication? Hello, Doctor. Twelve years ago, I had a duodenal ulcer, and about five or six years ago, it recurred. I was found to have Helicobacter pylori and was treated with antibiotics, but it was not confirmed wheth...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: You may discuss with your physician or obtain copies of your recent examination reports before visiting a large hospital or gastroenterology outpatient clinic for comprehensive treatment. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Managing Helicobacter Pylori Treatment for Duodenal Ulcer Recurrence
Does Taking Ulcer Medication Affect Blood Test Results?
Does taking ulcer medication affect blood tests? I have a mild duodenal ulcer and am currently undergoing treatment. My company conducts annual blood tests, and I am currently taking one Talcid tablet daily. I am wondering if this will affect the accuracy of the test results.
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, generally speaking, ulcer medications do not affect biochemical tests. However, they may cause false-negative results in Helicobacter pylori antibody tests. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Tao...[Read More] Does Taking Ulcer Medication Affect Blood Test Results?
Understanding H. Pylori Testing: Alternatives to Endoscopy for Stomach Issues
Helicobacter pylori testing I previously experienced gastrointestinal discomfort and underwent two gastroscopies, which showed inflammation of the stomach and duodenum. Could this be caused by Helicobacter pylori? Is it possible to skip the gastroscopy and directly test for Helic...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: The main methods for detecting Helicobacter pylori include the gel method (requiring gastric biopsy), serological method (blood draw), and the C13 breath test (breath sample). Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyu...[Read More] Understanding H. Pylori Testing: Alternatives to Endoscopy for Stomach Issues
Timing for Accurate Carbon-13 Breath Test After Antibiotic Treatment
Carbon-13 breath test I underwent an endoscopy this year, which revealed an infection with Helicobacter pylori. I started antibiotic treatment in mid-July. I would like to ask the physician about the carbon-13 urea breath test: how long after antibiotic treatment should I wait be...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: After one week of eradication therapy for Helicobacter pylori, it is recommended to undergo a C13 breath test one month later to confirm whether eradication was successful. If unsuccessful, consideration should be given to changing medications or selecting second-line trea...[Read More] Timing for Accurate Carbon-13 Breath Test After Antibiotic Treatment
Is Follow-Up Testing Necessary After Helicobacter Pylori Treatment?
Helicobacter pylori infection I was diagnosed with a Helicobacter pylori infection during my gastroscopy this year and underwent a 7-day course of medication. My doctor has recommended a carbon-13 urea breath test to monitor whether the Helicobacter pylori has been eradicated. Is...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: After one week of eradication therapy for Helicobacter pylori, it is recommended to undergo a C13 breath test one month later to confirm whether the eradication was successful. If unsuccessful, consideration should be given to changing medications or opting for second-line...[Read More] Is Follow-Up Testing Necessary After Helicobacter Pylori Treatment?
Effective Treatment Options for Helicobacter Pylori Infection and Gastritis
Helicobacter pylori infection I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in February of this year, and the results showed chronic superficial gastritis with Helicobacter pylori infection. What is the recommended treatment?
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: For patients with gastritis combined with Helicobacter pylori, treatment guidelines recommend that only those with refractory gastritis should undergo bacterial eradication therapy for Helicobacter pylori. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Departm...[Read More] Effective Treatment Options for Helicobacter Pylori Infection and Gastritis
Persistent Stomach Ulcer: Is 4 Months of Treatment Enough?
I have been taking Nexium for over three months, and my gastric ulcer has not improved? Hello Doctor: I visited a local hospital due to stomach discomfort and underwent an endoscopy, which revealed the presence of a gastric ulcer. The doctor prescribed Nexium for four months alon...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mr. Tseng: Generally, the treatment of ulcers with sucralfate is effective and rapid; however, if there is repeated irritation to the gastrointestinal tract or if it is related to motility issues, the situation may be different. In any case, it is important to take the medic...[Read More] Persistent Stomach Ulcer: Is 4 Months of Treatment Enough?
Can Better Stomach Medications Be Prescribed for My Condition?
Can a better stomach medication be prescribed? After undergoing an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, it was diagnosed as Grade A reflux esophagitis, superficial gastritis, duodenitis, and deformed (positive for Helicobacter pylori). The doctor mentioned that an ulcer is necessary...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastric ulcers, and duodenal ulcers can include antacids, H2-receptor antagonists, or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). However, proton pump inhibitors should only be prescribed with a clear endoscopic diagnosis of GER...[Read More] Can Better Stomach Medications Be Prescribed for My Condition?