Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help
Right lower abdominal tenderness issue? Hello, doctor! I have been experiencing dull pain in my lower right abdomen (near the inner side) for the past three weeks. It is not severe, just occasional dull pain and a constant feeling of something being there. It is tender to pressur...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to have a colon examination, which can be done by either a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help
Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: Insights on IBS and Other Causes
Changes in bowel habits Hello, doctor. Two months ago, after a sudden urge to use the restroom, I noticed bright red blood coming from my anus a few hours later, similar to menstrual flow. Since then, I have not seen any blood (it was painless). I have previously tended to be con...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has many forms; some are primarily characterized by constipation, others by diarrhea, and some alternate between constipation and diarrhea. Severe diarrhea-predominant IBS may result in frequent bowel movements, sometimes worsening after...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: Insights on IBS and Other Causes
How to Identify and Address Your Constipation Concerns?
How can one distinguish if they have constipation? I have been experiencing symptoms similar to constipation in the past few days. The amount I eat and the amount I pass have noticeably decreased. When I do have a bowel movement, it’s not hard stools; rather, they are somewhat so...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The definition of constipation includes: (1) decreased frequency of bowel movements (less than three times a week), passing hard stools, straining during defecation, feeling of incomplete evacuation, and a sensation of obstruction at the anal opening, all of which may indi...[Read More] How to Identify and Address Your Constipation Concerns?
Understanding Frequent Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Frequent diarrhea? Hello Doctor: Recently, I've been experiencing a lot of work-related stress and have been going to the bathroom 2-3 times in the morning (diarrhea). However, once I surpass the duration of diarrhea without going to the bathroom, the symptoms tend to lessen...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mr. SUSU: After reviewing your case, your symptoms are more indicative of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This condition is commonly seen in younger individuals and is often related to stress. Some people experience the constipation subtype, others the diarrhea subtype, and ...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Managing Chronic Diarrhea: Insights on Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Chronic bowel issues? I have been experiencing watery stools after every meal for several years. I recently underwent a colonoscopy, and the examination showed no abnormalities in my colon. The doctor diagnosed me with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). I have been taking medication...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (1) Dietary adjustments: reduce oil, dairy, and irritating foods (2) Medication adjustments: individualized prescriptions (3) Consider trying probiotics or enzymes. Best regards, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Heal...[Read More] Managing Chronic Diarrhea: Insights on Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Understanding Abdominal Issues: Causes of Bloating and Discomfort
Thank you for your inquiry regarding issues related to the abdomen (skin) and gastrointestinal tract? Hello! I would like to ask about some issues regarding my abdomen. I have a slight beer belly, and I often socialize and enjoy drinking alcohol. I do not have problems with const...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Hsiao-Lai: 1. Drinking alcohol can easily lead to diarrhea, please moderate your intake. 2. Additionally, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can also cause this; please have your stool checked and take medication for management. Dr. Chen Shih-Tien from Changhua Hospital car...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Issues: Causes of Bloating and Discomfort
Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Management Tips
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Hello, doctor! I am currently a university student, and I experience at least two episodes of diarrhea every time I approach an exam or on the day of the exam. By the way, my friend experiences both vomiting and diarrhea. Could this be due to stress...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: (1) Basically, your situation may be caused by anxiety and stress leading to diarrhea. (2) This is not exactly the same as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is usually chronic and does not only present symptoms during times of stress, such as before an exam. (3) Sugges...[Read More] Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Management Tips
Is It Colon Cancer? Understanding Symptoms and Solutions
Is it colorectal cancer? Recently, I experienced some constipation that resulted in hard stools, causing significant pain during bowel movements. I'm unsure if I might have scratched my anus, as there was some bleeding. Although the hard stool situation has improved over tim...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Dear Mr./Ms. Ya-Ken, Based on your symptoms, including changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, and the need to have multiple bowel movements to feel completely empty, many conditions such as functional gastrointestinal disorders and irritable bowel syndrome can present similar...[Read More] Is It Colon Cancer? Understanding Symptoms and Solutions
Understanding Constipation and Loose Stools: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Constipation with soft stools? I've been struggling with bowel issues for a long time, and I don't know when it started. During my menstrual period, my bowel movements become very infrequent for about a week, and it feels like my intestines hardly move at all. If I do h...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, experiencing constipation during menstruation while usually having soft stools can be common. Some individuals have sensitive gastrointestinal systems, leading to alternating constipation and diarrhea, especially under stress or with irregular eating habits, which can alte...[Read More] Understanding Constipation and Loose Stools: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Boosting Digestive Health: The Role of Enzymes and Probiotics
Diet for Chronic Constipation If you want to promote gastrointestinal motility and ensure regularity, in addition to drinking enough water and consuming sufficient fruits and vegetables, is it acceptable to take dietary supplements? For example, are enzymes or probiotics benefici...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, probiotics and the increase of beneficial gut bacteria have been shown in the literature to improve symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, according to Dr. Lin Ming-Hui from Taoyuan General Hospital, Depart...[Read More] Boosting Digestive Health: The Role of Enzymes and Probiotics
Do I Need a Colonoscopy for My Ongoing Digestive Issues?
Is there a problem with the intestines? Do I need to undergo a colonoscopy? Hello, I am 21 years old and have been struggling with gastrointestinal issues for a long time. I started feeling something was off with my intestines around the age of 17 or 18 in high school, often expe...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello, Miss: This appears to be a typical case of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), characterized by alternating rapid (diarrhea, soft stools) and slow (constipation, narrow stools) bowel movements. As long as stool sample tests are normal and your weight is stable, there is no nee...[Read More] Do I Need a Colonoscopy for My Ongoing Digestive Issues?
Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Connections to Digestive Health
Abdominal discomfort? For one month, I have been experiencing a feeling of heaviness above my abdomen, along with symptoms like diarrhea. Is it normal for a healthy person to have excessive gas, sometimes dozens of times a day? This has been a long-term issue for me, and I also f...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. It is normal for individuals to burp; however, excessive burping is not typical. Discomfort above the navel, diarrhea, and frequent burping can indicate common gastrointestinal issues such as functional gastrointestinal disorders, peptic ulcers, and irritable bowel sy...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Connections to Digestive Health
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 Foul Odors: What Your Stool Says About Your Gut Health
What about the smell of feces? I previously asked a question about gastroesophageal reflux, which has been ongoing for about three weeks (the doctor noted some bleeding from the photos). I am currently on medication. Since I live outside and the restroom provided is enclosed, wit...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, basically besides gastroesophageal reflux, the digestive function of the gastrointestinal tract is also poor. It is recommended to adjust your diet by reducing oil, dairy, irritating foods, and meat, which should help improve the symptoms. Wishing you good health. Dr. Chen...[Read More] Understanding Foul Odors: What Your Stool Says About Your Gut Health
Understanding Unexplained Weight Loss and Its Impact on Health
Health status Since I started graduate school, my weight has drastically dropped from 42.6 kg to just 36.8 kg. My limbs are so thin that my veins are very prominent, and when I exert myself, my veins bulge significantly. Additionally, the area in the middle of my buttocks appears...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, weight loss, indigestion, and constipation can be caused by stress, which may lead to digestive issues and a more sensitive gut, known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is advisable to review your dietary habits, especially if you are trying to lose weight; ensure you ...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Weight Loss and Its Impact on Health
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Regarding the gastrointestinal tract..? I have been suffering from abdominal pain recently. Around mid-September, I developed acute gastroenteritis, experienced stomach cramps, and had one episode of diarrhea, followed by a fever. After some time, I felt better and returned to my...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, post-acute gastroenteritis can sometimes lead to irritable bowel syndrome. It is recommended to maintain a light diet for a period of time, avoiding oily, dairy, and irritating spicy foods. Wishing you good health. Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Lower abdominal pain Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing gastrointestinal issues lately, with pain in my lower abdomen on both sides. The pain feels tight when it occurs. Could this be due to poor colonic motility? I have to strain during bowel movements, but my stools are not...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, based on the symptoms, it is possible that they are due to incomplete recovery of gastrointestinal function following a bout of gastroenteritis, which can also lead to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. It is recommended to adjust your diet by reducing fatty foods, l...[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Is It Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Understanding White Stool: What It Could Mean for Your Health
Regarding stool color—white? Hello Doctor: I would like to inquire about the issue of stool color. I found online that white stool may indicate a potential concern, so I would like to understand this better. Today, I noticed that a segment of my stool, approximately 15 centimeter...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, the presence of grayish-white stools indicates that the entire stool is affected, not just a small portion, and if this occurs with every bowel movement, it may suggest bile duct obstruction. Bile duct obstruction is a serious condition that is often accompanied by symptom...[Read More] Understanding White Stool: What It Could Mean for Your Health
Understanding Infrequent and Loose Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Bowel movements occur approximately every two days, but the stools are loose? Having a bowel movement approximately every two days, but experiencing loose stools and a feeling of incomplete evacuation, could indicate several issues. This may be related to dietary factors, such as...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, if the duration is short, it is likely gastroenteritis. Avoid greasy foods and milk, and stick to a light diet. If the duration exceeds 4 weeks, it may be due to gastrointestinal dysmotility. You should consult a gastroenterologist. Wishing you good health, Dr. Chen Qi-Fen...[Read More] Understanding Infrequent and Loose Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Three Months of Diarrhea: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
I have had diarrhea for three months? About a few weeks before the standardized test at the end of April or early May, I had diarrhea while studying in Miaoli. I went to a pediatrician in Miaoli who diagnosed me with gastroenteritis. After taking medication, I felt somewhat bette...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to eat less greasy food, avoid drinking milk, and maintain a light diet. If there is still no improvement, a colonoscopy may be considered. Wishing you good health. Dr. Chen Qifeng, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Three Months of Diarrhea: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues