Low Alkaline Phosphatase: Impact of Birth Control Pills on Liver Health?
Low alkaline phosphatase levels? Hello, Doctor. I recently had a health check-up, and the report indicated that my alkaline phosphatase levels are low. I have been taking oral contraceptives, and I would like to know if the medication could be affecting this value. Is it putting ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is no need to worry about being slightly low.[Read More] Low Alkaline Phosphatase: Impact of Birth Control Pills on Liver Health?
Chronic Diarrhea: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Persistent diarrhea Hello doctor, I have been experiencing chronic diarrhea for over a month, often occurring after meals, with stools that are soft or mushy. My appetite has decreased somewhat, but I can still eat. I'm not sure if this is related to the hot weather or if it...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Dear Mr. Anonymous: It is recommended that you seek medical examination to determine your condition, which will allow for further diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Cai Jin-ji, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Chronic Diarrhea: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Can You Take Cialis with Hepatitis B and Normal Liver Function?
Can a person with hepatitis B take Cialis? If liver function is normal, is it safe to take Cialis 5mg, or is it not recommended?
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Mr. Hsiao-Hsiang: Cialis is primarily metabolized by the liver. The condition of hepatitis B and the liver should be assessed through blood tests and ultrasound. Normal liver enzyme levels do not necessarily indicate that there are no issues. It is recommended to first conf...[Read More] Can You Take Cialis with Hepatitis B and Normal Liver Function?
Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound Results: What You Need to Know
Issues related to abdominal ultrasound? About a year ago, I visited a hospital's hepatobiliary and gastroenterology department due to stomach discomfort. The doctor arranged for an ultrasound and endoscopy. During the follow-up appointment, the doctor only mentioned that I h...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There should be no special findings, but please monitor for any signs of hepatitis B or liver function.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding Esophageal Varices and Liver Cirrhosis: Key Insights for Patients
Esophageal varices caused by liver cirrhosis? Hello Doctor, my father is 61 years old and is a carrier of Hepatitis B. He has been taking Baraclude for about 2-3 years and has a history of excessive alcohol consumption. After experiencing his first episode of esophageal variceal ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. It varies by individual, and there are also differences among physicians. 2. Medication and regular endoscopy are recommended, along with minimizing activities that increase abdominal pressure (such as lifting heavy objects). 3. Blood tests and ultrasound are necessary, an...[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Varices and Liver Cirrhosis: Key Insights for Patients
Traveling by Plane with Liver Cancer: Safety Concerns and Risks
Liver cancer patients who wish to travel by plane? I would like to ask if a patient with liver cancer and a malignant tumor (approximately 10 centimeters in diameter) can fly on an airplane. Is there a risk that the changes in atmospheric pressure during the flight could cause th...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is a significant risk of rupture, especially with large liver cancers located near the liver surface. We have encountered patients with similar cases (e.g., abdominal pain after disembarking from a plane → urgent transfer to the hospital → liver cancer rupture). Additionall...[Read More] Traveling by Plane with Liver Cancer: Safety Concerns and Risks
Understanding Immunoelectrophoresis Results: Concerns About Liver Cirrhosis
Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about the immunoelectrophoresis findings that suggest liver cirrhosis? A few days ago, I underwent an immunofixation electrophoresis test at my own expense due to personal reasons, and the results are as follows: total protein 7 g/dL, albumi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to consult an immunologist.[Read More] Understanding Immunoelectrophoresis Results: Concerns About Liver Cirrhosis
Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps
Elevated levels of AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein) test? Hello, I underwent a health check-up on May 25th, where it was found that my alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level was elevated at 19.3. All related liver function tests, including GOT, GPT, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, and albumin, we...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can wait for the CT scan report first, and if necessary, an MRI can be added, or you can follow up with a third blood test.[Read More] Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Insights on Liver and Muscle Health
Blood test values Hello, Doctor. I have a few questions regarding some lab results: 1. My lactate level is 28 (normal range: 4.5-19.8), which is elevated, and my pyruvate level is 0.98 (normal range: 0.18-0.89), which is also slightly high. Additionally, my lactate dehydrogenase...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. This issue has not been studied, I apologize. 2. Low GOT/GPT levels are still considered acceptable; if too thin, one can increase protein intake and engage in strength training to build muscle.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Insights on Liver and Muscle Health
High White Blood Cell Count in Liver Abscess: Discharge Considerations
Elevated white blood cell count in liver abscess? 79 years old! After 21 days of drainage, the white blood cell count is still over 20,000. Is it possible to be discharged under these circumstances? Is there a 21-day limit for insurance-covered hospital beds? How many days should...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
The treatment duration for a liver abscess is related to the size of the abscess, the underlying cause, the type of infecting bacteria, and the patient's response to treatment. Treatment for a liver abscess may include surgery, drainage, and antibiotic therapy, with complete...[Read More] High White Blood Cell Count in Liver Abscess: Discharge Considerations
Best Supplements for Fatty Liver and Gallbladder Polyps: What to Consider
For individuals with fatty liver and gallbladder polyps, liver health supplements that may be beneficial include milk thistle, artichoke extract, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements to ens...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The primary strategies for managing fatty liver are weight loss and exercise, while liver-protective medications have limited efficacy (though they are not harmful). The components of artichoke extracts are all similar, showing no significant differences.[Read More] Best Supplements for Fatty Liver and Gallbladder Polyps: What to Consider
Understanding Muddy Stool: Gastrointestinal Concerns and Next Steps
Gastrointestinal and bowel-related issues? Hello Doctor: For the past 5-7 days, my stools have been muddy and coffee-colored. Prior to this, I experienced stomach pain and bloating, which led me to visit the emergency room for blood and urine tests. The emergency physician indica...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea improved after medication, but after three days, there are still gastrointestinal discomfort, poor appetite, and muddy, coffee-colored stools. It is possible that the gastroenteritis has not completely resolved. It is recommended to pay atte...[Read More] Understanding Muddy Stool: Gastrointestinal Concerns and Next Steps
Emergency Surgery for Acute Cholecystitis: Navigating High Liver Enzymes
The emergency physician arranged for an urgent surgical operation? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to inquire about the following narrative: A patient presented to the emergency department late at night with abdominal pain. Blood tests revealed elevated liver enzymes, and a CT s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If the liver function tests are significantly elevated, anesthesia or surgery may not be advisable. Please discuss the details with your attending physician.[Read More] Emergency Surgery for Acute Cholecystitis: Navigating High Liver Enzymes
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Insights into Liver and Gastrointestinal Issues
Abdominal pain Hello doctor, I just experienced pain again in the triangular area below my ribcage. I noticed that the sensation is different from before. Previously, it was a sudden, very sharp pain with some intensity. Now, it feels like a faint, very sharp pain without any int...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Pay attention to posture, apply local protection and heat therapy, and seek medical attention if necessary.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Insights into Liver and Gastrointestinal Issues
Morning Abdominal Discomfort: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Morning abdominal "pain" issue? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing abdominal discomfort for a long time (about 3-4 years). Often, when I wake up in the morning, I feel pain around the area approximately three fingerbreadths to the left of my navel. This pain is not ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There should be no major issues with the gastrointestinal tract, and it can be monitored further. The likelihood of neuropathic pain is also low.[Read More] Morning Abdominal Discomfort: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Risks of Eating Undercooked Pork Liver: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Eating undercooked pig liver? Hello, doctor. My family and I are very concerned, so I would like to ask you about something. If we consume pork liver soup and accidentally eat undercooked pork liver, which even exudes a bit of blood when pressed, is there a chance of contracting ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Currently, there are still very few cases of this kind in Taiwan, but please continue to monitor for any symptoms.[Read More] Risks of Eating Undercooked Pork Liver: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Upper Abdominal Pain: Is It Related to the Pancreas?
Upper abdominal pain, abdominal ultrasound concerns? Hello Doctor, over the past year, I have occasionally experienced pain in the upper abdomen, particularly in the left upper quadrant. There is usually a specific point that is painful when pressed, and sometimes it seems to be ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Pain in the upper left abdomen is more commonly associated with issues related to gastric acid. Pancreatic problems are less likely unless there is a history of long-term alcohol consumption or hypertriglyceridemia. If the symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a gas...[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Pain: Is It Related to the Pancreas?
Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Occasional discomfort in the right upper abdomen? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing occasional discomfort in my upper right abdomen for the past 3 to 4 months. The discomfort is located approximately at the junction of the upper right abdomen and the rib cage, and it feels l...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Some individuals may experience similar discomfort, which could be related to peristaltic digestion. Dietary adjustments and medication can help manage the symptoms, and long-term follow-up will likely lead to improvement, so please rest assured.[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Chronic Morning Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Long-term abdominal pain upon waking up in the morning? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing abdominal discomfort for a long time (about 3-4 years). I often feel pain in the area about three fingerbreadths to the left of my navel when I wake up in the morning. This pain is not ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is advisable to first undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to rule out any gastric issues. Additionally, please avoid tea (black tea/green tea/milk tea), coffee, chocolate, sweets, spicy foods, fried foods, high-fat, and high-protein foods. Changhua Hospital care...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Morning Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Right Upper Abdomen Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Pain under the right rib cage in the upper abdomen? Hello, doctor. I occasionally experience pain in the area just below the right rib cage. The pain is localized and typically lasts for about 1 to 2 weeks each time it occurs, but it tends to recur every few months. The pain beco...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to visit a pain management clinic. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdomen Pain: Causes and Next Steps