Understanding Elevated Blood Ammonia Levels: Causes, Symptoms, and Testing
Blood ammonia I have alcoholic hepatitis, coronary artery disease, a minor stroke, and gallstones. Recently, I went to the emergency room due to abdominal bloating, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Blood tests showed my serum ammonia level was 130. The doctor informed me tha...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, elevated ammonia levels are toxic to the brain. Normally, ammonia is produced from protein metabolism. However, the human body has a urea cycle system to eliminate ammonia. In children with congenital metabolic disorders, this can lead to hyperammonemia, which may present ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Blood Ammonia Levels: Causes, Symptoms, and Testing
Understanding Liver Shadows: Are They Always a Cause for Concern?
There is a shadow in the liver? I would like to ask about my sister-in-law (27 years old). She recently had a health check-up at a medical center, and an ultrasound revealed a shadow approximately 2 cm in size. However, she does not have hepatitis B or C, and her liver function i...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Miss Xiao Qi, Most liver cancers are caused by hepatitis B or C. Ultrasound can provide an initial differentiation, but regular monitoring of changes is still necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Sincerely, Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Liver Shadows: Are They Always a Cause for Concern?
Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Next Steps and Treatment Options
Elevated AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein) Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask about my recent health check-up at work where I found that my AFP level is 97.75. I then went to the hospital for further examination, where they checked my GOT, GPT, and performed an ultrasound, as well as teste...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, the high likelihood conditions associated with AFP include hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancer, pregnancy, and other less common cancers related to the embryo. For hepatitis, it is important to identify the cause, such as viral hepatitis, alcohol consumption, medications, a...[Read More] Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Next Steps and Treatment Options
Understanding the Risks of a 10mm Liver Tumor: What You Need to Know
Ultrasound revealed a 10mm liver tumor? I am a carrier of hepatitis B and discovered a 15 mm benign hemangioma over a year ago, which has remained stable. However, during a routine ultrasound check yesterday, another 10 mm tumor was found in my liver. The doctor was vague and sil...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Lagos: A 10mm tumor is difficult to diagnose clearly (it's too small), but treatment is quite straightforward. Additionally, you can rest assured that a 10mm tumor is unlikely to grow significantly in the short term; most cases are monitored to see if there is any ...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of a 10mm Liver Tumor: What You Need to Know
Essential Tests for Chronic Hepatitis B Carriers: A Guide
What tests should be done for a hepatitis B carrier? Hello: I underwent a health check at the end of 2005, where I tested positive for Hepatitis B surface antigen and negative for Hepatitis B surface antibody. In the following years, my GOT and GPT levels were normal. If I want t...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. According to your examination in 2005, you are a carrier of Hepatitis B. Your liver function tests are normal; however, chronic Hepatitis B poses a high risk for liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. It is recommended to have regular annual check-ups, including liver func...[Read More] Essential Tests for Chronic Hepatitis B Carriers: A Guide
Causes of Right Side Abdominal Bloating: Beyond Ultrasound Findings
Bloating on the right side of the abdomen? If you are experiencing bloating on the right side of your abdomen and an ultrasound did not reveal any issues, there are several potential causes to consider. These may include: 1. **Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)**: A common gastroint...
Dr. Zhang Siyuan Reply:
Hello! Abdominal bloating is just a symptom, and as you inquired, it can have many causes, some of which are benign and not life-threatening if diagnosed late, while others can be life-threatening if recognized too late and should not be taken lightly. Common causes include the f...[Read More] Causes of Right Side Abdominal Bloating: Beyond Ultrasound Findings
Are Bloating and Dizziness Related? Understanding Gastrointestinal Health
Is dizziness related to bloating? Hello doctor! My husband is 55 years old and has a large abdomen. He has regular bowel movements every day but often feels bloated, and recently he has experienced occasional dizziness. Could this be related? Additionally, how should he manage hi...
Dr. Zhang Siyuan Reply:
Hello! Here are the answers to your questions: ★ Bloating is just a symptom that can have many causes. Benign causes may not be life-threatening even if diagnosed late, but some causes can be life-threatening if detected too late, so it should not be taken lightly. Common causes...[Read More] Are Bloating and Dizziness Related? Understanding Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding the Differences Between Liver Hemangiomas and Nodules: Risks Explained
Liver nodule I am a carrier of hepatitis B and have been under regular long-term monitoring. My liver function tests have always been normal, but I have been positive for the e-antigen. Five years ago, an ultrasound examination revealed a hemangioma, but in the past 1-2 years, th...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Doris: The nodules are likely the result of liver regeneration following inflammation, but early-stage liver cancer cannot be completely ruled out. Therefore, it is necessary to have ultrasound follow-ups every 2-3 months, or to perform a biopsy if there are any changes...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Liver Hemangiomas and Nodules: Risks Explained
Understanding Hepatitis B: Myths and Facts About Liver Health
What is Hepatitis B? 1. What is hepatitis B? 2. In mainland China, the terms "Dasan Yin" and "liver ascites" refer to liver cancer, correct?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin: 1. Hepatitis B is an inflammation of the liver caused by the acute or chronic infection of the hepatitis B virus. 2. Triple negative? 3. Ascites refers to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity due to cirrhosis. Changhua Hospital cares about your health....[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Myths and Facts About Liver Health
Managing Chronic Hepatitis B in Adolescents: Concerns and Treatment Options
Hepatitis B My daughter contracted hepatitis B vertically due to my condition. Although she received immunoglobulin at birth, she is now 14 years old and her e-antigen is still positive. I take her for blood tests and ultrasounds every three months. Currently, her GOT, GPT, and f...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear concerned mother, I can sense your eagerness and love! However, there is no need to be anxious; it seems that there is currently no major issue. Just keep monitoring the situation without the need for any medication (only necessary during episodes). The ultrasound report de...[Read More] Managing Chronic Hepatitis B in Adolescents: Concerns and Treatment Options
Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes in the Abdomen: What You Need to Know
Swollen lymph nodes in the abdomen? Hello Doctor: A few years ago, my mother was diagnosed with a liver tumor, which was treated with electrocautery. Recently, a CT scan revealed an enlarged lymph node in her abdomen (near the reticular area), but her liver appears normal. The do...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, if liver cancer shows signs of metastasis (including to the abdominal cavity or lymph nodes), it indicates a poor prognosis. Additionally, liver cancer generally has a poor response to chemotherapy. If there is indeed lymphatic metastasis, the response to chemotherapy or t...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes in the Abdomen: What You Need to Know
Weight Loss and Diarrhea: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues in Cancer Survivors
Diarrhea accompanied by weight loss? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to consult you regarding my mother's health issues. Here is a brief overview of her condition: My mother is 58 years old and has a history of breast cancer, for which she underwent bilateral mastectomy and has...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Yali: 1. There is a low correlation with the liver, but regular ultrasound examinations (every 6 months) are still recommended. 2. It is advised to visit a gastroenterology clinic for stool tests and medication, and then consider a colonoscopy. 3. Irritable bowel ...[Read More] Weight Loss and Diarrhea: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues in Cancer Survivors
Can Homemade Red Bean Heating Pads Cause Aflatoxin Contamination?
Aflatoxin Is there a risk of aflatoxin production when a doctor uses red beans to make a reusable heating pad that is heated in the microwave? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, Aspergillus flavus frequently contaminates crops such as peanuts, corn, rice, wheat, and nuts. When Aspergillus flavus proliferates in large quantities, it can produce aflatoxins, which are heat-resistant. According to data, temperatures of 260-280°C are required to kill t...[Read More] Can Homemade Red Bean Heating Pads Cause Aflatoxin Contamination?
Understanding Hepatitis B: Is Normal Liver Function Enough?
Hepatitis B I would like to ask if having normal liver function test results means that my Hepatitis B status is also normal? Is there a correlation between normal liver function and Hepatitis B, or do I need to go to the hospital for further testing? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, normal liver function indicates that there is currently no inflammation in the liver. To check for hepatitis B, it is necessary to test for HBsAg and HBsAb in the blood. Most carriers of hepatitis B are asymptomatic. Liver enzyme levels may be normal, but carriers need lif...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Is Normal Liver Function Enough?
Is There a Cure for Liver Fibrosis? Understanding Treatment Options
Is there medication for liver fibrosis? Dear Doctor, After reading your work, I have gained a better understanding of liver diseases. However, I still have some concerns after my recent consultations, and I would like to ask a few questions: Family medical history: I am a carri...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello Homa! Based on the information in your letter, your medical history is less than six months, but given your current condition of acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis B, it is indeed necessary to initiate medication to suppress inflammation. However, since it has been l...[Read More] Is There a Cure for Liver Fibrosis? Understanding Treatment Options
Understanding the Risks of Hepatitis in Families with Liver Disease History
A GPT index exceeding 1000 may indicate a severe liver condition, such as acute hepatitis. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis? Hello Doctor: My family has a history of liver disease that has persisted for four generations. Alm...
Dr. Li Xuanshu Reply:
1. Indeed, if the hepatitis is caused by fatty liver, the use of干安 (干安 is likely a medication name, please provide the English name for accurate translation) would be ineffective. 2. Is your E antigen positive or negative? Do you have E antibodies? If your E antigen is positive,...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Hepatitis in Families with Liver Disease History
Understanding Chronic Hepatitis B: Key Questions and Concerns
Am I considered a severe carrier of hepatitis B? Hello Doctor: First, I would like to share my family's medical history: My mother was once your patient and passed away at 55 due to severe jaundice, ascites, and cirrhosis caused by hepatitis B. My grandmother also died from ...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello! 1. To qualify for health insurance coverage, you need to have an e-antigen report. I'm not sure if you have been tested for this, as well as for Hepatitis C and Hepatitis D. Since your GPT level is above 200, if the e-antigen is positive and Hepatitis C and D infectio...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Hepatitis B: Key Questions and Concerns
Understanding Hepatitis B: Risks, Recovery, and Health Check Guidance
Hepatitis B This year, I just started high school (vocational), and during a health check at school (conducted by Taichung Hospital), I found out that I have hepatitis B. Is it possible for hepatitis B to heal? Or if I don't test positive for hepatitis B after six months, ca...
Dr. Li Xuanshu Reply:
Currently, there are no medications available that can completely eliminate hepatitis B, so once infected, the likelihood of becoming a lifelong carrier is quite high. There are no specific regulations on what time to go to bed, and there is no evidence to suggest that staying up...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Risks, Recovery, and Health Check Guidance
Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Myths, Risks, and Family Implications
Questions from Hepatitis B carriers? Is it true that a person who is a carrier of hepatitis B will never be able to clear the virus and be cured for life? It seems that people tend to avoid individuals with this condition, believing that being a carrier will "definitely"...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, Dr. Dai: 1. A hepatitis B carrier is defined as HBsAg positive and HBsAb negative. The term "carrier recovery" refers to the conversion of HBsAg to negative and HBsAb to positive. The spontaneous seroconversion rate is generally low, so hepatitis B carriers requ...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Myths, Risks, and Family Implications
How Much Aflatoxin Exposure Can Lead to Liver Cancer?
How much aflatoxin does one need to consume to develop liver cancer? Dear Dr. Hsu, I have undergone abdominal ultrasound examinations by two different physicians. The doctor at the Tzu Chi Douliu Clinic reported a small dark shadow and noted that the spleen appears larger than u...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello, since you do not have hepatitis B or C, the likelihood of malignant tumors is low. However, if you are still concerned, a CT scan can be arranged for further evaluation. I'm not sure about the size of the small dark spot that was seen on the original ultrasound; somet...[Read More] How Much Aflatoxin Exposure Can Lead to Liver Cancer?