Safe Sleep Medications for Hepatitis C Carriers: A Guide for Seniors
Hepatitis C carriers Hello Doctor: I am inquiring on behalf of a woman in her 60s who is a carrier of hepatitis C and is allergic to Western medications. What type of sedative is suitable for a hepatitis C carrier?
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: If liver function is normal in patients with hepatitis C, the impact of medication on the liver may not need to be considered, unless there are abnormalities in liver function or if liver function abnormalities occur after medication use. In such cases, it is advisable to ...[Read More] Safe Sleep Medications for Hepatitis C Carriers: A Guide for Seniors
How to Check for Pancreatic Issues: A Guide for Patients
Pancreatic issues Hello Doctor: My mother is 65 years old and has hepatitis C and Sjögren's syndrome. She is on regular medication. Since my uncle passed away from pancreatic cancer a few years ago, I would like to ask which department she should see for a pancreatic examina...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss Lin. 1. The primary examination for the pancreas is an ultrasound (gastroenterology). If you are regularly monitoring your liver function tests, the ultrasound will also be performed at the same time. However, the pancreas can sometimes be obscured by the stomach or...[Read More] How to Check for Pancreatic Issues: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Abnormal Blood and Urine Test Results in Liver Health
Regarding blood and urine test results? In the year 2012, a health check-up was conducted, and the results suggested the following follow-up: weight loss (44 kg/160 cm), low white blood cell count, positive urine protein, weakly positive urine ketones, positive urine bilirubin, e...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. For chronic hepatitis B carriers with abnormal liver function, regular follow-up is necessary. 2. If there are symptoms of jaundice, such as intermittent high indirect bilirubin, it may sometimes be necessary to check for hemolytic anemia, G6PD deficiency, and other con...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood and Urine Test Results in Liver Health
Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Dull pain in the left side of the abdomen? Hello, Dr. Lin. I have been experiencing a dull pain in the left side of my abdomen, approximately one hand's breadth to the left of my navel, just below the rib cage. This has been ongoing for about 2 to 3 months. About 2 months ag...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Left abdominal pain may have several possible causes, including esophageal and gastrointestinal diseases, organic issues such as inflammation or ulcers, and functional disorders like pancreatic, liver, or gallbladder diseases. Systemic conditions such as diabetes and vascu...[Read More] Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Managing Ascites in Cirrhosis: Finding Relief for Your Loved One
Cirrhosis with refractory ascites? My father has cirrhosis and has to go to the hospital every week to have ascitic fluid drained, with at least 3000 to 4000 cc being removed each time. However, no matter how much fluid is drained, his abdomen remains distended and unchanged in s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Miss Yueyue, in the case of end-stage liver cirrhosis (with poor response to diuretics), liver transplantation should be considered for long-term stability. Additionally, a medical center can place a stent in the hepatic blood vessels to reduce hepatic blood flow pressure, ...[Read More] Managing Ascites in Cirrhosis: Finding Relief for Your Loved One
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Relief Tips
I have a severe stomachache? I have been experiencing abdominal pain for three days. I have taken antacids and other medications, and I have seen a doctor. Sometimes the pain is so severe at night that it wakes me up. It feels like a stomach ulcer; the medication helps alleviate ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: General abdominal pain can be categorized into upper or lower abdominal pain (with the navel as the dividing line). If the pain is in the upper abdomen, it is often related to gastric diseases, and an upper endoscopy may be necessary. Additionally, an abdominal ultrasound ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Relief Tips
Understanding the Connection Between Chronic Hepatitis C and Eczema
Hepatitis C and eczema? Hello, my mother has hepatitis C and eczema (which has not healed for over ten years). I would like to ask the doctor a few questions: 1. Regarding the eczema, she has been seeing a dermatologist for many years and has been using medications prescribed by ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: In chronic hepatitis, theoretically, the skin may be more prone to itching, but eczema is not necessarily related to hepatitis. The treatment for Hepatitis C typically involves general liver-protective medications, which have limited effectiveness and mainly assist in live...[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Chronic Hepatitis C and Eczema
Understanding Liver Ultrasound Results: What You Need to Know
Questions about liver ultrasound examination? Hello, ultrasound physician: Last week, I underwent a routine ultrasound follow-up for gallbladder polyps. The polyps have been monitored for 7 years and have consistently measured between 0.4 cm and 0.6 cm (the doctor said this is wi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Ms. Liu. The interpretation of ultrasound is quite subjective. Most physicians tend to be conservative and may describe some findings as coarse echogenicity (fibrosis). This can sometimes cause anxiety for patients. Generally, as long as liver function remains normal over ...[Read More] Understanding Liver Ultrasound Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding Occasional Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Insights
Occasional dull and bloating pain in the lower abdomen? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing occasional dull pain in my lower right abdomen for the past three years, usually after being busy for a while. Taking a short break would alleviate the discomfort, and it hasn't be...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin, first we will check your stool, urine, and perform a local physical examination to identify any abnormalities (including a gynecological examination). Additionally, we can arrange for a colonoscopy to rule out the possibility of any lesions. Changhua Hospital is co...[Read More] Understanding Occasional Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Insights
Understanding Elevated GPT Levels: What You Need to Know
GOT is normal, while GPT is elevated? Hello, doctor. My brother underwent a military physical examination at your hospital last September, and the report indicated that his GOT levels were normal, but his GPT was elevated at 98. He returned for a follow-up examination on February...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Ms. Peko. 1. If you have a higher body weight, fatty liver should be addressed by first losing weight and confirming with an ultrasound. 2. Other potential causes such as medications and alcohol must also be ruled out. Dr. Chen Shidian from Changhua Hospital cares abo...[Read More] Understanding Elevated GPT Levels: What You Need to Know
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 Helicobacter Pylori: Implications for Liver and Stomach Health
Helicobacter pylori Hello Doctor: I underwent a health check-up and tested positive for Helicobacter pylori, and the ultrasound examination showed a rough surface on my liver. Could you please advise if there are significant issues with my stomach or liver, whether there will be ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to visit a gastroenterology and hepatology specialist for further examination. First, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy should be performed to check for gastritis or peptic ulcers. Depending on the findings, it may be necessary to consider eradication t...[Read More] Understanding Helicobacter Pylori: Implications for Liver and Stomach Health
Understanding Liver Index Fluctuations: Causes and Concerns
Liver enzymes have risen again to around 78? Three months ago, my liver enzymes rose to over 200. At that time, I tested for hepatitis C antibodies, and the result was negative. I then went for weekly liver enzyme tests, which gradually decreased to the normal range. Three months...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: There are many reasons for elevated liver enzymes, and hepatitis C is just one of them. Further examination by a gastroenterologist or hepatologist is necessary. As for alcohol hand sanitizers and low blood pressure, they would not be reasons for this condition. Wishing yo...[Read More] Understanding Liver Index Fluctuations: Causes and Concerns
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
Understanding Stomach Pain When Hungry: Causes and Solutions
It is common to experience stomach pain when feeling hungry? Hello Dr. Chen, 1) I have never smoked or consumed alcohol. I maintain a regular diet with three meals at consistent times and avoid spicy foods. However, in recent years, I often experience stomach pain when I am hung...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Pain during hunger may be a symptom of an ulcer. It is recommended to undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy first, and then treatment can be based on the results. Regarding degenerative arthritis, taking painkillers may pose a risk to the stomach. The best approach i...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Pain When Hungry: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Chronic Hepatitis B: 22 Years as a Carrier and Treatment Insights
Hepatitis B carrier for 22 years? The patient has been a carrier of hepatitis B for 22 years. Five years ago, liver function tests showed a level of 1600. After taking liver protective medication for one and a half years, liver function and tumor markers are currently normal. An ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, if the condition is fully controlled, the viral load is undetectable. It is currently recommended to continue using Hepatitis B medication. If there are signs of liver function abnormalities or if the viral load increases instead of decreasing, it may i...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Hepatitis B: 22 Years as a Carrier and Treatment Insights
Understanding Bloating: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Discomfort
Abdominal bloating? I ate significantly less than usual yesterday and the day before, but I didn't feel hungry. Last night, I ate a bit more than the night before, yet I felt like the food was backing up in my esophagus. I took a digestive aid last night and felt less full a...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello: There are many causes of abdominal bloating, which may involve the stomach, intestines, or liver and gallbladder issues. It is recommended to visit a clinic for further evaluation and treatment by a physician. Wishing you peace and good health.[Read More] Understanding Bloating: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Discomfort
Understanding Inflammatory Pseudotumors of the Liver: What You Need to Know
Liver tumor An inflammatory pseudotumor is a mass that resembles a tumor but is not a true neoplasm. It is characterized by an inflammatory response rather than a proliferation of neoplastic cells. The contents of an inflammatory pseudotumor typically include a mixture of inflamm...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Sir, you have a tumor-like mass formed by the accumulation of inflammatory cells, either acute or chronic. A biopsy or excision is often required for confirmation through pathological examination. Changhua Hospital is concerned about your health. Dr. Chen Shih-Tien.[Read More] Understanding Inflammatory Pseudotumors of the Liver: What You Need to Know
High Liver Enzymes: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention?
Elevated liver enzymes? Hello doctor, I would like to ask if it is necessary to seek immediate medical attention with liver enzyme levels of G.O.T 430 and G.P.T 754. If I wait until the fifth day of the Lunar New Year to see an outpatient clinic, will there be concerns about dela...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Elevated liver enzymes (GOP: 430, GPT: 754) indicate liver inflammation, and it is important to seek medical attention promptly. The causes of hepatitis include viral hepatitis infections, general viral infections, alcohol consumption, medications, systemic diseases, and a...[Read More] High Liver Enzymes: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention?