Back Pain When Breathing: Possible Kidney or Digestive Issues?
Experiencing back pain while inhaling? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about something. When I take a deep breath, I experience pain in my back. Could this possibly be related to kidney or other internal organ issues? Additionally, I have noticed that my urine has a slightl...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there is no associated weight loss or significant discomfort, further observation may be warranted. If the condition does not improve on its own, a consultation with a gastroenterologist or pulmonologist may be necessary.[Read More] Back Pain When Breathing: Possible Kidney or Digestive Issues?
Understanding Abdominal Sonography: Key Insights and Follow-Up for Liver and Gallbladder Health
Abdominal Sonography (Hepatobiliary Medicine), please analyze and note the follow-up precautions? 1. Liver: - Surface: 1. smooth ( ) 2. uneven (+) 3. nodular ( ) - Parenchyma: 1. homogeneous ( ) 2. heterogeneous (+) 3. coarse ( ) - Vessel: 1. smooth ( ) 2. blunt (+) 3. ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Basically, the examination shows only mild fatty liver, so there is no need to worry. Please discuss the details with your attending physician.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Sonography: Key Insights and Follow-Up for Liver and Gallbladder Health
Understanding Right Side Rib Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist
There is mild pain on the right side? I would like to ask about a slight swelling and pain I feel on the right side, near the lower ribs, around two to three ribs down. Previously, this discomfort would only occur when I consumed certain foods, but recently it has become intermit...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can go to the gastroenterology outpatient clinic for an ultrasound examination to check for any abnormalities in the liver and gallbladder.[Read More] Understanding Right Side Rib Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist
Managing Fatty Liver and GERD: A Patient's Journey to Health
I have a question I would like to ask the doctor? Hello Doctor: I have had abnormal liver function since 2003. I do not smoke, drink alcohol, or chew betel nut, but I have always loved sugary drinks. In the past, I also frequently stayed up late, and I only exercised during physi...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. For those prone to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is advisable to pay attention to diet by reducing coffee intake, and limiting chocolate, spicy foods, and high-fat foods. 2. Helicobacter pylori is associated with chronic gastritis, gastrointestinal ulce...[Read More] Managing Fatty Liver and GERD: A Patient's Journey to Health
Chest Pain After Eating: Is It Related to Fish Bones?
Is there a correlation between left chest pain and fishbone ingestion? Hello Doctor: About a week ago, I had an eel rice bowl. At that time, I did not feel any sensation of something stuck in my throat or esophagus, and there were no unusual symptoms that night. However, the next...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Fishbone injuries to the gastrointestinal tract typically result in acute episodes requiring emergency treatment. A small number of elderly individuals may experience delayed onset due to swallowing difficulties or sensory impairment, but these cases are generally exceptions. If ...[Read More] Chest Pain After Eating: Is It Related to Fish Bones?
Should I Consider Paying for Hepatitis B Medication?
Do I need to actively pay for medication out of pocket? I took the antiviral medication Entecavir (0.5 mg) covered by the National Health Insurance for three years, from April 2015 to April 2018. During the treatment period, both my viral load and liver function showed significan...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The health insurance regulations for hepatitis B in Taiwan comply with world standard guidelines, so there is no need to worry about temporarily stopping medication. The key point is that regular monitoring is necessary (which can be time-consuming for working individuals) to det...[Read More] Should I Consider Paying for Hepatitis B Medication?
Understanding Glutamyl Transferase Levels: Causes and Management Tips
Glutamyl transferase Glutamyl transferase (GGT) 126 refers to the level of this enzyme in the blood. A GGT level of 126 is considered elevated. While infrequent alcohol consumption may not be the sole cause, factors such as sleep disturbances and obesity can contribute to elevate...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Dear Ms. Glutamyl Transferase 126, this indicates that there is inflammation in your liver. Please seek a professional consultation with a gastroenterologist or hepatologist for a detailed examination immediately. Thank you for your inquiry. Changhua Hospital cares about your hea...[Read More] Understanding Glutamyl Transferase Levels: Causes and Management Tips
Understanding Elevated GPT and Indirect Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Concerns
Elevated GPT/indirect bilirubin slightly elevated? Over the past 10 years of regular health check-ups, my GPT/GOT/total bilirubin levels have all been within normal ranges, with GPT/GOT between 10-20. In August 2018, total bilirubin was first noted at 1.8 (with GPT/GOT around 20 ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The condition is somewhat different from others, but still poses no danger. It is recommended to continue monitoring at the same healthcare facility. Maintain a normal diet and avoid exposure to toxic volatile substances. Referral to a medical center should only be made if necess...[Read More] Understanding Elevated GPT and Indirect Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Fatty Pancreas: Insights from Abdominal Ultrasound
Fatty pancreas under ultrasound? Hello Doctor: The recent abdominal ultrasound report mentioned: 1. Liver mildly increased brightness (Fatty liver mild) 2. Increased brightness of pancreas. It was previously mentioned that increased brightness of the liver indicates that the live...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Increased brightness of the pancreas indicates that the pancreas is encased in fat, which necessitates attention to weight management and monitoring for potential excessive alcohol consumption. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Fatty Pancreas: Insights from Abdominal Ultrasound
Understanding Elevated Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Levels: Causes and Implications
γ-Glutamyltransferase A γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) level of 126 may indicate potential issues with the liver or bile ducts. Elevated GGT levels are often associated with alcohol consumption and the use of certain medications, but they can also be elevated due to other factors s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
This indicator may increase in fatty liver and other hepatobiliary diseases; it is for reference only and can be further monitored for comparison.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Levels: Causes and Implications
Understanding Appetite Loss, Stomach Pain, and Nausea: Key Insights
Loss of appetite, stomach pain, and nausea? Hello, doctor. I have a few questions: (Question 1) For the past 4 to 5 days, I have been experiencing a loss of appetite, sometimes not eating anything all day and only drinking nutritional water or jelly drinks. I have stomach pain ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Please visit a hepatobiliary and gastroenterology specialist for evaluation. Undergo liver function tests and an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.[Read More] Understanding Appetite Loss, Stomach Pain, and Nausea: Key Insights
High Liver Enzymes: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Solutions
If liver enzyme levels double, can it lead to symptoms such as abdominal bloating and pain, dizziness and headaches, blurred vision, generalized weakness, and loss of appetite? Hello, I would like to ask about my mother. Recently, she has been experiencing bloating and stomach pa...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
1. A twofold increase in liver enzymes is considered a mild elevation. 2. Many liver function abnormalities are asymptomatic; even if levels exceed 1000, symptoms, if present, are often non-specific, such as fatigue, decreased appetite, and nausea. 3. Your mother's symptoms ...[Read More] High Liver Enzymes: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Solutions
Unexplained Recurring Fever: A Gastroenterology Case Study
Recurrent fever of unknown origin for an extended period? Hello Doctor, my mother is 62 years old. Since returning from a trip to Europe at the beginning of the year, she has had a poor appetite and has lost weight (from 60 kg to 50 kg). She says she is not accustomed to European...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Please visit the infectious disease department and undergo nuclear medicine scanning if necessary.[Read More] Unexplained Recurring Fever: A Gastroenterology Case Study
Is It Safe to Use Contrast Dye One Week After Kidney Stone Surgery?
Can contrast agents be administered within one week after endoscopic surgery for kidney stones? Last week, my husband underwent extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for kidney stones, but the stones were not fragmented. Today, on the 6th, he is scheduled for endoscopic surgery t...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, to differentiate between benign and malignant liver tumors using a CT scan, it is necessary to administer a contrast agent to assist in the diagnostic evaluation of the tumor. However, the injection of the contrast agent raises concerns about potential impacts on renal fun...[Read More] Is It Safe to Use Contrast Dye One Week After Kidney Stone Surgery?
Do I Still Need Regular Liver Function Tests After Recovering from Hepatitis B?
Question 2 after Hepatitis B testing? Hello Doctor: I previously inquired about my hepatitis B test results, and you mentioned that I have "had hepatitis B, have recovered and developed antibodies, and have lifelong immunity." I would like to ask if this means that I no...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Yes.[Read More] Do I Still Need Regular Liver Function Tests After Recovering from Hepatitis B?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Liver Transplant: A Patient's Journey
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor, I underwent a liver transplant in 2000. After the transplant, I experienced stomach pain about once every 2-3 months. Even when I don't have stomach pain, I am accustomed to getting an endoscopy once a year or every six months. Each time...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, 1. A nodule simply describes a raised structure, and a biopsy is a standard procedure; as long as the biopsy results are normal, there is no issue. 2. For medication responses, it is advisable to consult your attending physician. 3. Generally, it is not recommended to take...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Liver Transplant: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Pancreatic Cysts: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Follow-Up Care
Pancreatic pseudocyst Hello Doctor Chen: I have been experiencing a sensation of a foreign body in my right abdomen for 3-4 years. Sometimes, I also have abdominal pain that radiates to my back (the area is not fixed). My blood test showed a slightly elevated bilirubin level (1.6...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Pancreatic cysts are generally not a major concern, while liver nodules need to be evaluated based on their characteristics. Typically, ultrasound examinations do not specifically emphasize the relationship between height and pancreatic size, but rather observe whether there is a...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Cysts: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Gastritis Nodules: Causes, Risks, and Recovery Time
Gastric inflammatory nodules Hello, doctor. I had a liver transplant 18 years ago. After the surgery, I experienced intermittent stomach pain, so I got into the habit of having an endoscopy every six months. Each time at National Taiwan University Hospital, they either said I had...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Didn't your doctor explain how this happened? 2. It is recommended to follow up, as it is not possible to determine the future based on the current situation; it may improve or it may progress to cancer. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Gastritis Nodules: Causes, Risks, and Recovery Time
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: From Gas to Throat Tightness After Liver Transplant
Tightness in the clavicle? Hello Doctor, I have a history of liver transplantation and cesarean delivery. My doctor mentioned that I might have mild intestinal adhesions. Since my liver transplant, I have undergone gastroscopy every six months to a year. At National Taiwan Univer...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Your issue is quite complex. Please consult a gastroenterologist and discuss it in detail with Dr. Tsai An-Shun at Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: From Gas to Throat Tightness After Liver Transplant
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Liver Transplant: A Patient's Journey
Gastrointestinal tract Hello Doctor, I had a liver transplant 15 years ago and sometimes experience stomach pain, so I have been getting endoscopies every six months. At National Taiwan University Hospital, the doctors have consistently told me that I have mild mucosal erosion, b...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Based on the description, it is likely that the condition is a fundic gland polyp. These types of polyps are benign and generally do not pose significant issues, so they typically do not require special treatment.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Liver Transplant: A Patient's Journey