Symptoms of Hepatitis B and C: Rash, Fatigue, and Swelling Explained
Symptoms of hepatitis Infection with hepatitis B or C can present with various symptoms. Common symptoms include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. While rashes are not typical symptoms of hepatitis B or C infections, some in...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: 70% of acute hepatitis cases present without any obvious symptoms, while the remaining patients exhibit non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, poor appetite, abdominal bloating, and mild drowsiness. Some may report symptoms similar to those of a cold, and it is usually onl...[Read More] Symptoms of Hepatitis B and C: Rash, Fatigue, and Swelling Explained
Managing High Jaundice Levels in Liver Tumors and Lymphoma
The jaundice index is excessively high in a patient with lymphatic cancer and liver tumors? My father has a liver tumor, lymphoma, and hepatitis B, and he is experiencing high levels of jaundice. The doctor has mentioned that there are currently no medications available for treat...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: First, we need to confirm the primary cause of the jaundice and treat it accordingly. If necessary, we may consider plasmapheresis, but it would be out-of-pocket and carries certain risks. Changhua Hospital is concerned about your health. Sincerely, Chen Shih-Tien.[Read More] Managing High Jaundice Levels in Liver Tumors and Lymphoma
What to Do When Cystic Liver Infection Surgery Fails: A Guide
What should be done if there are no results after surgery and drainage for polycystic liver disease? Hello doctor, my mother is 72 years old. Two years ago, she underwent surgery for a bacterial infection in her liver cysts and had her gallbladder removed. She was hospitalized a ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. The elevated bilirubin levels can be caused by infections, liver issues, or bile duct obstructions. 2. The standard treatment for liver cyst infections involves drainage or aspiration combined with antibiotics, and sometimes the treatment duration may be extended. It...[Read More] What to Do When Cystic Liver Infection Surgery Fails: A Guide
Understanding Complications in Liver Cancer Patients: A Case Study
Grandma has liver cancer and was admitted to the intensive care unit due to a urinary tract infection? Hello! My grandmother was diagnosed with stage II liver cancer at the end of June this year (she has a history of hepatitis C, diabetes <controlled with medication>, and h...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: My grandmother has diabetes and chronic hepatitis C, and after undergoing embolization treatment for liver cancer, if the liver function of chronic hepatitis patients deteriorates, possible manifestations include the onset or worsening of jaundice, low serum albumin levels...[Read More] Understanding Complications in Liver Cancer Patients: A Case Study
Understanding Bile Duct Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms, and Care Tips
Cholangitis What causes inflammation of the bile ducts? What symptoms can occur? Is it always accompanied by a fever? Besides taking antibiotics and monitoring body temperature, what other precautions should be taken if inflammation occurs?
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. Bile duct obstruction, impaired bile flow, and bacterial proliferation in the bile ducts can lead to cholangitis. Obstruction of the bile ducts can be caused by gallstones, foreign bodies, parasites, tumors, external compression, or strictures. 2. Symptoms of cholan...[Read More] Understanding Bile Duct Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms, and Care Tips
Benefits of B Vitamins for Individuals with Liver Dysfunction
Vitamin B complex Hello, Dr. Tsai. I would like to ask if supplementing with B vitamins is beneficial for individuals with poor liver function?
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Dear Mr. Zheng: Vitamin B1 (thiamine) in the B-complex vitamins plays a role in tissue repair and growth, and it is beneficial during the regeneration of liver cells in the event of hepatitis. Another component of the B-complex vitamins, B12, can help reduce jaundice and loss o...[Read More] Benefits of B Vitamins for Individuals with Liver Dysfunction
Differences Between ERCP and MRCP: What You Need to Know
What are the differences between ERCP and MRCP examinations? I have been experiencing pain in my right upper abdomen for 3 to 4 years. I have undergone abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, MRCP, gastroscopy, colonoscopy, small bowel endoscopy, capsule endoscopy, and endoscopic ult...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr./Ms. Peter, ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is an invasive procedure. It involves inserting an endoscope, similar to a gastroscope, through the mouth into the duodenal ampulla. A thin catheter is then used to inject contrast dye into the openings ...[Read More] Differences Between ERCP and MRCP: What You Need to Know
When is ERCP Recommended for Abdominal Pain and Pancreatic Cysts?
What are the indications for using ERCP? I have been experiencing pain in my upper right abdomen for 3 to 4 years. I have undergone gastroscopy, colonoscopy, CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound, which only showed fatty liver. My bowel movements are normal, and blood tests indicate norm...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: ERCP is an invasive procedure with a small risk of causing pancreatitis. If there has been a history of pancreatitis leading to a pancreatic pseudocyst, it is generally not recommended to undergo ERCP, unless absolutely necessary or if the pseudocyst has been resolved. Wis...[Read More] When is ERCP Recommended for Abdominal Pain and Pancreatic Cysts?
Understanding Abnormal Blood and Urine Test Results in Liver Health
Regarding blood and urine test results? In the year 2012, a health check-up was conducted, and the results suggested the following follow-up: weight loss (44 kg/160 cm), low white blood cell count, positive urine protein, weakly positive urine ketones, positive urine bilirubin, e...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. For chronic hepatitis B carriers with abnormal liver function, regular follow-up is necessary. 2. If there are symptoms of jaundice, such as intermittent high indirect bilirubin, it may sometimes be necessary to check for hemolytic anemia, G6PD deficiency, and other con...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood and Urine Test Results in Liver Health
Understanding the Link Between Stool Changes and Colon Cancer Risks
Colorectal cancer Hello Doctor, my stool has been flat, thin, and short for a year. Could this be a sign of colorectal cancer? I only recently learned that this could indicate colorectal cancer. Thank you! Mr. Chen 0935-519-552
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
Dangerous symptoms of colorectal cancer include changes in bowel habits, changes in stool shape, mucus in stool, blood in stool or blood-streaked stool, urgency, abdominal pain, anemia, loss of appetite, weight loss, and symptoms of metastasis to other organs (such as bone pain, ...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Stool Changes and Colon Cancer Risks
Post-Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery: Follow-Up Care and Checkups
Post-laparoscopic cholecystectomy? After laparoscopic surgery for gallstones, is it necessary to have regular follow-up appointments after the one-week post-operative visit? If so, what should be checked and what should be noted? Should I return to the surgery department (since i...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: In the early postoperative period until the surgical follow-up, if the wound is healing well, there is no need for further follow-up visits. After gallstone surgery, there is no specific timeframe for a follow-up appointment. If similar pain symptoms or jaundice occur, you...[Read More] Post-Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery: Follow-Up Care and Checkups
Understanding Persistent Jaundice in Infants: Causes and Solutions
Baby has a yellowish nasal tip? Hello, my baby is now one year and twenty days old. There was no jaundice at birth, but three days after discharge, I noticed yellowing on the face, nose, and a little in the whites of the eyes. We took him to the hospital, and blood tests indicate...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Xiaobi's mom: The absence of yellowing in the sclera suggests that it is not pediatric jaundice. Please discuss any abnormalities with your pediatrician. Dr. Chen Shidian from Changhua Hospital cares about your health.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Jaundice in Infants: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Pancreatic Disorders: Risks of Jaundice and Tumor Concerns
Pancreatic diseases Hello Dr. Chen: I have recently developed jaundice, and my stool is pale gray. After a blood test, my bilirubin level was 24. What are the risks if I do not address this immediately? Additionally, my CT scan shows an irregular mass measuring 2.5 cm on the panc...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Based on the current information, it is suspected that there is a tumor in the head of the pancreas, which is compressing the bile duct and causing obstructive jaundice. Immediate intervention is necessary. Best regards, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of H...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Disorders: Risks of Jaundice and Tumor Concerns
Understanding Yellowing Skin: Possible Gastrointestinal and Liver Issues
Jaundice? Hello, doctor! I am 39 years old. 1. I have poor gastrointestinal digestion and absorption (my stomach makes gurgling sounds). I have seen a gastroenterologist. 2. My complexion has turned yellow. 3. I have anemia. 4. I have large pimples on my face. 5. My hands and fee...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. If there is a change in skin color to yellow, it is recommended to follow up with outpatient examinations. 2. Possible causes of yellowing skin include: 1) Severe anemia 2) Jaundice due to liver or biliary diseases 3) Dietary factors such as excessive con...[Read More] Understanding Yellowing Skin: Possible Gastrointestinal and Liver Issues
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 Gilbert's Syndrome: Risks and Lifestyle Impacts Explained
Please ask your questions, and I'll do my best to assist you? Hello Dr. Chen, I have two questions I would like to ask. I have visited a general laboratory, then a general gastroenterologist, and was referred to a major hospital. Currently, the doctor at Chang Gung Memorial...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: In fact, there are not many complications associated with Gilbert's syndrome. It is advisable to avoid overexertion, limit alcohol consumption, prevent hunger, and reduce the risk of infections to minimize the occurrence of jaundice. Changhua Hospital cares about...[Read More] Understanding Gilbert's Syndrome: Risks and Lifestyle Impacts Explained
Understanding Right Upper Abdomen Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Right upper quadrant discomfort? Hello, I would like to ask about a persistent dull ache and occasional sharp pain in my right upper abdomen near the ribs. I have been a regular blood donor and do not have hepatitis B or C, but I do have fatty liver and am overweight. I had an ul...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. Right upper quadrant pain can have differential diagnoses including musculoskeletal issues, pleural diseases, gastrointestinal problems, liver and biliary conditions, as well as kidney and adrenal gland disorders. Normal liver function tests generally refer to normal ...[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdomen Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Why Is My Skin Turning Yellow? Understanding Dietary Effects on Skin Tone
The skin on the hands and face has turned very yellow? Dear Dr. Chen, Hello, I am a 21-year-old female. About a year ago, I experienced hormonal imbalances that caused a lot of acne on my face. During that time, I was prescribed medication by a dermatologist that contained stero...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: Please have someone assist in checking if there is any yellowing in the upper and lower parts of the sclera. If necessary, a blood test for jaundice should be conducted. If it is merely due to food pigments, reducing the intake of yellow-colored foods will help fade ...[Read More] Why Is My Skin Turning Yellow? Understanding Dietary Effects on Skin Tone
Understanding Liver and Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Further Testing
Regarding the liver and stomach? Hello, Gastroenterologist: A few days ago, I started feeling discomfort in my stomach, but I did not seek medical attention. One night, I suddenly experienced severe stomach pain that was unbearable, so I immediately went to the emergency room. I ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. Based on your symptoms and test results, it appears to be acute hepatitis. The causes of acute hepatitis can be categorized into viral hepatitis (including hepatitis A, B, C, D, E, and other viruses such as EBV, CMV, HSV, etc.) and non-viral hepatitis, which includes ...[Read More] Understanding Liver and Gastrointestinal Issues: When to Seek Further Testing
Understanding Liver Explosion: Symptoms and Related Conditions
Regarding liver issues? Hello Dr. Chen, could you please tell me what the symptoms of liver explosion are? Is liver explosion also referred to as acute liver failure?
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, acute liver failure (often referred to informally as "explosive liver failure," though this term is not used in medical terminology) refers to a rapid deterioration of liver function due to any cause, leading to hepatic encephalopathy within 8 weeks of onset. Sym...[Read More] Understanding Liver Explosion: Symptoms and Related Conditions