Effective Weight Loss Strategies for Liver and Kidney Health
I have some questions? Hello! I recently want to lose weight. My height is 173 cm and my weight is 94.2 kg. In a recent school health check, my obesity index was rated with 2 stars. I have many questions, so please bear with me... Thank you! Here are my questions: I really want...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello: 1. Regardless of the method, rapid weight loss is generally not recommended. 2. Rapid weight loss can lead to the rapid accumulation of fat in the liver, worsening fatty liver disease. For kidney health, it is advised to avoid excessive salt intake, drink water in moderati...[Read More] Effective Weight Loss Strategies for Liver and Kidney Health
Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Diagnosis
Right lower abdominal pain? Hello, Dr. Chen. I would like to ask you about some recent health issues. I've been experiencing intermittent pain in my lower right abdomen, located roughly on the right side of my belly, which usually lasts about an hour and is tolerable. Howeve...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello David, 1. Please check for any right kidney/ureter stones. 2. A stool occult blood test should be performed. 3. If symptoms persist, a non-invasive colonoscopy or related examinations should be conducted, as determined by a specialist. 4. Ultrasound can visualize the l...[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Diagnosis
Chronic Abdominal Pain and Back Discomfort: Understanding IBS and Next Steps
Chronic issues I have been experiencing long-term pain in my lower abdomen and almost daily discomfort in my lower back and upper back, including pressure and cramping sensations, for over a year now. Initially, it was just abdominal pain, but then it progressed to daily discomfo...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Irritable bowel syndrome generally does not cause lower back discomfort. The examinations are mostly complete, and it is recommended to adjust diet and medication. An ultrasound examination of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys should be performed, and i...[Read More] Chronic Abdominal Pain and Back Discomfort: Understanding IBS and Next Steps
Understanding the Differences Between Abdominal X-rays and Ultrasounds
Abdominal issues? Hello doctor, I have a question. 1. What is the difference between an abdominal X-ray and an abdominal ultrasound? Are they checking the same things? 2. If I have already had an abdominal ultrasound, do I still need to have an abdominal X-ray? (Why did my attend...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Abdominal X-ray: primarily used to assess the distribution of intestinal gas; it can also reveal some calcifications (such as certain gallstones and kidney stones), the normal distribution of soft tissues, the normal outlines of solid organs, as well as the vertebrae and p...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Abdominal X-rays and Ultrasounds
Understanding Chronic Abdominal Pain: When to Consult a Specialist
Abdominal pain issues? I have been experiencing upper and lower abdominal pain for over a year, sometimes radiating to the uterus, pubic area, vagina, and anus. I often feel a sense of pressure and distension in both kidneys, and at times, my entire body is sensitive to touch and...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It may be worth considering the opinions of different specialists; however, the key is to be patient with medication and follow-up. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Abdominal Pain: When to Consult a Specialist
Do You Need an Abdominal X-Ray After an Ultrasound?
Abdominal issues? Is it necessary to undergo an abdominal X-ray after having an abdominal ultrasound?
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Abdominal ultrasound is primarily used to examine solid organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, and bladder. Abdominal X-rays are mainly used to assess the distribution of intestinal gas. If there is air in the intestines, it can obscure the view ...[Read More] Do You Need an Abdominal X-Ray After an Ultrasound?
Understanding Pancreatic Issues: Causes of Abdominal and Back Pain
Pancreatic issues Chronic lower abdominal pain that gradually extends to the pelvic area, along with left lower back pain, raises the question of whether pancreatic diseases can cause lower abdominal pain. Additionally, pain around the navel and left lower back pain are noted. An...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: An abdominal ultrasound typically examines five organs: the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys. However, a retroperitoneal ultrasound, located in the posterior abdominal cavity, is often affected by intestinal gas, making it more challenging to visualize. Ne...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Issues: Causes of Abdominal and Back Pain
Accuracy of Abdominal Ultrasound for Liver and Pancreas Evaluation
Abdominal ultrasound 1. How accurate is an abdominal ultrasound examination? 2. What is the accuracy of abdominal ultrasound in assessing the pancreas?
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Abdominal ultrasound primarily observes structures such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys. It is characterized by being non-invasive and convenient, and generally has high accuracy. However, the observation of the pancreas can be easily affected by g...[Read More] Accuracy of Abdominal Ultrasound for Liver and Pancreas Evaluation
Chronic Abdominal Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
I've been troubled for a long time? I have been experiencing persistent pain in my lower abdomen, which includes cramping, dull pain, and sharp pain. Initially, the pain was localized in the lower abdomen, sometimes on the left side, sometimes on the right, and sometimes in ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: 1. Disorders of the small intestine are quite rare. If various examinations have been conducted and the diagnosis is irritable bowel syndrome, the next step is to adjust the medication. 2. Abdominal ultrasound primarily examines organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancr...[Read More] Chronic Abdominal Pain: Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound: What Organs Are Examined?
Ultrasound Doctor, may I ask? When a gastroenterologist arranges for a liver and gallbladder ultrasound, does it only focus on the liver and gallbladder, or will the pancreas and spleen also be included in the examination?
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: The abdominal ultrasound primarily examines the structure of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys. Best regards, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound: What Organs Are Examined?
Can Abdominal Ultrasound Detect Pancreatic Issues?
Ultrasound Issues Can a liver and gallbladder ultrasound also detect the pancreas?
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Abdominal ultrasound is primarily used to examine the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys. Best regards, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Can Abdominal Ultrasound Detect Pancreatic Issues?
Understanding Liver and Gallbladder Ultrasound: Functions and Diseases Explored
Liver and gallbladder ultrasound examination Liver and gallbladder ultrasound examination is used to assess the functions and diseases of the liver and gallbladder.
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Abdominal ultrasound primarily examines the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys. Any structural abnormalities can be detected; however, it cannot assess the functionality of these organs. Best regards, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department o...[Read More] Understanding Liver and Gallbladder Ultrasound: Functions and Diseases Explored
Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Insights
Continuing to inquire about the area just above the navel, in the middle of the ribs, slightly to the left? Hello, doctor. Today I went to a nearby clinic for an ultrasound examination. The doctor said there were no significant issues with my liver, gallbladder, or kidneys. Howev...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr./Ms. L, if the pain above the navel is not related to liver or gallbladder issues, then it is likely related to gastrointestinal or muscular problems. If the pain intensifies when you are hungry, it suggests a gastrointestinal issue, and I recommend undergoing an upper g...[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Insights
Understanding High Triglycerides and Fatty Diarrhea: What You Need to Know
Recently, there have been elevated levels of triglycerides and fatty liver? Hello Doctor, Recently, I'm not sure if it's due to my own excessive stress or if there's a real issue with my body, but I've been experiencing fatty diarrhea for four consecutive da...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr./Ms. L, steatorrhea refers to watery stools that have a layer of floating oil on top, commonly seen in patients with chronic pancreatitis. A stool test would show a positive fat reaction. If the above conditions are met, it should be classified as steatorrhea. At 21 year...[Read More] Understanding High Triglycerides and Fatty Diarrhea: What You Need to Know
Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns Explained
What does it mean when there is mucus in the stool? Hello, doctor. A few days ago, my bowel movements were normal, about 20 centimeters in length and roughly the diameter of 2.5 fingers. However, recently, possibly due to the cooler weather and having to wake up early for classes...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr./Ms. L, based on your description, if there is no family history, the change in your bowel habits is likely a functional disorder. It may be influenced by changes in the environment, emotions, or stress, and could potentially be irritable bowel syndrome. As for the sharp...[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns Explained
Understanding Elevated Serum Transaminases: Causes and Solutions
Serum transaminases The blood donation center report indicates that my serum transaminase level is 93, which is elevated. However, I went to bed around 2 AM the night before donating blood. What are the effects of elevated transaminase levels on the body, and how can I improve th...
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
The measurement of serum transaminases (GPT, GOT) is used to assess whether liver cells are damaged. Normal serum transaminase levels are generally below 40 units. There are many causes for elevated serum ALT levels, primarily including alcohol abuse, medication use, intense exer...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Serum Transaminases: Causes and Solutions
Persistent Left Rib Pain: Is It Gastric or Kidney Issues?
There is often a dull pain along the left rib margin, sometimes extending to the back on the left side? Hello Doctor, I often experience a dull pain along the edge of my left rib, which sometimes radiates to the back on the left side. This pain is particularly noticeable at night...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mr./Ms. RL: Based on your description, we recommend that you schedule a gastroscopy and abdominal ultrasound examination at the gastroenterology department to determine the cause. Thank you for your inquiry! Changhua Hospital cares about your health![Read More] Persistent Left Rib Pain: Is It Gastric or Kidney Issues?
Navigating Treatment Options for Liver Fibrosis in Kidney Transplant Patients
Treatment issues of liver fibrosis? Dear Dr. Chen, I am a kidney transplant recipient and a hepatitis C patient, currently 57 years old. Eight years ago, I underwent a successful kidney transplant surgery in mainland China, and since then, my post-operative condition has been go...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Mr. Andy: 1. Hepatitis C should be ruled out or treated before kidney transplantation. 2. In Taiwan, modern blood transfusions are filtered for Hepatitis C from donors. 3. It is indeed challenging to manage, and a biopsy is necessary for evaluation. The Department of Hepatobiliar...[Read More] Navigating Treatment Options for Liver Fibrosis in Kidney Transplant Patients
How to Identify Digestive Issues: A Guide for Patients
How should it be determined? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to ask you about a 53-year-old woman who has not had her menstrual period for about a year. Approximately one to two years ago, she experienced pain in the upper left abdomen after dinner and had black stools. She underw...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: Please first visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic (you may bring a small sample of "black stool" for examination) to confirm any issues related to the intestines, stomach, pancreas, or kidneys. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] How to Identify Digestive Issues: A Guide for Patients
Understanding 25% Kidney Atrophy: Functionality, Surgery, and Care Tips
A 25% reduction in kidney size indicates atrophy, but the kidney may still retain some function. Whether surgery is necessary for removal depends on various factors, including the underlying cause of the atrophy, the remaining kidney function, and any associated symptoms. A thoro...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, your question would be more appropriately answered by a nephrologist. Please consult a nephrology specialist. Wishing you good health, Dr. Chen Qi-Feng, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding 25% Kidney Atrophy: Functionality, Surgery, and Care Tips