Understanding Yellowish-White Stool: Causes and Concerns
Issues with Stool Color Recently, during a bowel movement, a portion of the stool was yellowish-white, while the rest of the stool was of normal color. The odor was the same as usual, and my diet has been consistent. Three months ago, a health check revealed mild fatty liver.
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Should remain normal, can continue to observe.[Read More] Understanding Yellowish-White Stool: Causes and Concerns
Low Amylase Levels: Causes and Management for Digestive Health
What should I do if my amylase levels are low? Hello, doctor. During my health check-up, I found that my amylase level is only 20. What could be the possible reasons for this, and what should I do next? I have issues with being overweight and moderate fatty liver, but I don'...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Still within normal range, unrelated to weight and other factors.[Read More] Low Amylase Levels: Causes and Management for Digestive Health
Understanding Elevated Alpha-Fetoprotein Levels in Liver Cancer Screening
Liver cancer index I would like to ask if it is common for the fetal protein index to be between 10-20 in a situation where there are no abnormalities found in hepatitis B and C tests, ultrasound, and CT scans, and where the urologist has also performed a testicular examination w...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
You can visit the gastroenterology and hepatology outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Alpha-Fetoprotein Levels in Liver Cancer Screening
Understanding Newly Detected Liver Nodules: Causes and Next Steps
Hypoechoic liver nodule Hello, due to mild fatty liver and gallbladder polyps, I have been undergoing abdominal ultrasound follow-ups every six months at the clinic. There is no evidence of hepatitis B or C. During my last visit in October, the doctor noted two liver nodules (one...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The shadow of fatty liver may just be an artifact, and experienced gastroenterologists can often make this determination, but further follow-up is still necessary for confirmation.[Read More] Understanding Newly Detected Liver Nodules: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Blood Test Results for Hepatitis: Are You Improving?
Blood test report issues? On August 29, blood tests showed GOT: 75, GPT: 187, HBeAg - EIA Hepatitis B e antigen: 1380. After continuously taking Viread for about 3 months, on December 1, blood tests showed GOT: 31, GPT: 49, HBeAg - EIA Hepatitis B e: 1236. I would like to know if...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Inflammation is improving (very effectively), long-term medication is required, do not discontinue on your own, and regular follow-up is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results for Hepatitis: Are You Improving?
Is a Fetal Protein Index Above 10 Abnormal? Insights on Liver Health
Report index issues? Is a fetal protein index higher than 10 considered abnormal? I have undergone ultrasound and CT scans, and a doctor has performed a testicular examination, indicating mild fatty liver. There are no signs of hepatitis B or C, and there are two calcification po...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If this has been the case for a long time (rather than a gradual increase), it may be an individual constitution and is generally not concerning.[Read More] Is a Fetal Protein Index Above 10 Abnormal? Insights on Liver Health
Impact of Hepatitis B Vaccination on Liver Function in Antibody-Positive Patients
Issues related to hepatitis B vaccination? If a patient has already developed antibodies against hepatitis B but then receives three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine, there are generally no adverse effects from the vaccination. The vaccine is designed to boost immunity, and in th...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
In theory, it will only enhance the concentration of hepatitis B antibodies and will not affect liver function tests.[Read More] Impact of Hepatitis B Vaccination on Liver Function in Antibody-Positive Patients
Understanding Elevated Fetal Protein Levels: Next Steps for Liver Health
The fetal protein index is elevated? In September of this year, I underwent a comprehensive physical examination with the following results: GOT/31, GPT/61.8, R-GT/66, AFP/13.3. Based on the report, I was advised to go to the hospital for further evaluation. In early October, the...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to discuss further with the attending physician, including screening for testicular cancer.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Fetal Protein Levels: Next Steps for Liver Health
Traveling Abroad with a Liver Transplant: Essential Dietary and Health Tips
Diet for Liver Disease and Liver Issues Hello, Deputy Director. My father underwent a liver transplant last year and is currently recovering very well; his overall health and complexion have improved significantly. He is very attentive to his diet and takes his medications on tim...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. Eat less raw food, ensure adequate sleep, and consult with your liver care coordinator for lifestyle matters. 2. Prepare an English medical history (including medications) for emergency medical situations. 3. Download the National Health Insurance Quick Access App to check...[Read More] Traveling Abroad with a Liver Transplant: Essential Dietary and Health Tips
Understanding Blood Test Results: Insights on Liver Health and More
Blood test value inquiry? Hello, doctor. Recently, my family arranged for a blood test at a laboratory, and I have some questions regarding the results. Here are the liver-related values: Total Bilirubin: 1.1, Direct Bilirubin: 0.35, Total Protein: 7.4, Albumin: 5.0, Globulin: 2....
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is still within an acceptable range; a re-evaluation of the slightly abnormal parts can be done in 3 to 6 months for comparison.[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Insights on Liver Health and More
Improving Liver Health: Tips for Students Facing Stress and Sleep Deprivation
How to improve liver health? Hello Doctor: My friend was diagnosed with abnormal liver function in high school. Now he is in his junior year of college and often sleeps only 2 to 3 hours a week while preparing for exams. However, he cannot afford to sleep and sacrifice his grades...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
There are many causes of liver dysfunction. It is important to identify the underlying cause before implementing targeted treatment. Adhering to medication schedules, regularly monitoring liver function, and adjusting lifestyle and dietary habits can help the liver gradually reco...[Read More] Improving Liver Health: Tips for Students Facing Stress and Sleep Deprivation
Understanding Your Abdominal CT Report: Key Insights for Liver and Heart Health
Abdominal CT scan report Hello, doctor! Due to urinary issues, I underwent an abdominal CT scan, and the report highlighted the following two points. I would like to ask what I should pay attention to and how to improve these conditions: 1. Chronic liver parenchymal disease with ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The liver shows no significant issues. The enlargement of the heart will be evaluated by a cardiologist.[Read More] Understanding Your Abdominal CT Report: Key Insights for Liver and Heart Health
Understanding Right Upper Abdomen Pain: Causes and Concerns
Pain upon palpation in the right upper quadrant? Hello Dr. Chen: Over the past week (starting around Monday), I have noticed a painful spot just below the right rib cage in the upper right abdomen. A few days ago, I felt more pain when stretching, but today it feels slightly bett...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The posture-related issue is likely a localized muscle strain. Pay attention to the posture when lifting heavy objects, apply local heat therapy, use analgesics, and monitor the condition.[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdomen Pain: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Bloating and Discomfort: Gastrointestinal Concerns Explained
Abdominal bloating? Hello Dr. Lin, I apologize for bothering you. I would like to ask about a feeling of tightness and bloating in my stomach that I've been experiencing for the past few months. Sometimes, I feel a bloating sensation in the area just a little to the left of ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
The sensation of a skipped heartbeat in the chest, along with tightness, may commonly be attributed to causes such as indigestion, gastroenteritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and liver, gallbladder, or pancreatic disease...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Discomfort: Gastrointestinal Concerns Explained
Understanding Pain Between the Liver and Gallbladder: Symptoms and Concerns
Pain upon palpation between the liver and gallbladder? Hello Doctor, about two weeks ago, I started experiencing a vague stabbing pain around my navel. I noticed pinkish urine on two occasions during urination, and since then, my urine has been yellow but foamy. Additionally, I h...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can observe, apply heat, and pay attention to your posture. If symptoms persist, you may visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Pain Between the Liver and Gallbladder: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding MRI Findings: Assessing Liver Lesions After HCC Surgery
MRI Report Several years ago, a family member underwent surgery for liver cancer and recovered well, with follow-ups every three months. Recently, a CT scan indicated a gray shadow on the liver, prompting the doctor to order blood tests and a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) exam...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The report indicates a recurrence of liver cancer; please discuss this with the attending physician for their assessment.[Read More] Understanding MRI Findings: Assessing Liver Lesions After HCC Surgery
Understanding Abdominal Cysts: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management
Chest CT shows a cyst in the upper abdomen? Hello Doctor, following up on my previous question: I later reviewed my ultrasound report from the clinic, and it turns out that the liver cyst was already 17 cm at that time. I often need to take deep breaths to feel more comfortable, ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There may be some abdominal pressure, and the swelling is usually temporary, often returning to its original size. A definitive cure requires surgery, and it is advisable to discuss this with a gastroenterologist or surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Cysts: Symptoms, Treatment, and Management
Understanding Liver, Gallbladder, and Pancreas Tests: What to Expect
Examinations of the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas system? Hello, because I experience diarrhea after consuming greasy foods, my doctor suggested that I undergo tests for the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas system. What kind of tests are these? Do I need to fast or provide a s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If the gallbladder is not removed, and there is biliary obstruction or recurrent pancreatitis accompanied by jaundice and weight loss, it is often not a biliary or pancreatic issue, but rather a motility disorder.[Read More] Understanding Liver, Gallbladder, and Pancreas Tests: What to Expect
Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Liver and Gallbladder Insights
Abdominal ultrasound examination? Hello Dr. Chen, I had an abdominal ultrasound examination yesterday, and I translated the findings myself. I found several issues!!! The liver size is normal, but the parenchyma is heterogeneous, the surface is smooth, and the vascular system is ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there is no hepatitis B/C or pain, monitoring is sufficient.[Read More] Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Liver and Gallbladder Insights
Understanding Cystic Lesions in the Upper Abdomen: When to Consult a Gastroenterologist
Chest CT shows a cyst in the upper abdomen? Hello, doctor. I just had a chest CT, and I saw a statement in the report that says: "Two cystic mass-like lesions in the upper abdomen (Se2 Im122) up to 11 cm. Suggest abdominal CT with contrast for further evaluation." Howev...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It seems that the default report text was forgotten to be updated. After undergoing an ultrasound, regular follow-up (approximately once a year) is sufficient.[Read More] Understanding Cystic Lesions in the Upper Abdomen: When to Consult a Gastroenterologist