Understanding Hepatitis: Symptoms, Risks, and Essential Actions
Hepatitis What is hepatitis? Is it serious? What are the consequences? What should I do?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Sir: Liver inflammation can lead to fibrosis and cirrhosis over time. It is important to identify the underlying cause, as many can be managed. Please visit a gastroenterology clinic for evaluation. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Best regards, Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis: Symptoms, Risks, and Essential Actions
Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: Causes and Solutions for Liver Health
Liver? I went for a health check-up two months ago, and a few days later, I was shown the results. It indicated that my liver function test showed ALT levels that are twice the normal upper limit. Can you help me understand this and how to address the issue?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Mr. Wai: You have signs of hepatitis, with liver function levels elevated more than twice the normal range. Please bring your written documentation to the gastroenterology outpatient clinic for examination and treatment. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shid...[Read More] Understanding Elevated ALT Levels: Causes and Solutions for Liver Health
Managing Duodenal Ulcers: When Symptoms Persist Despite Treatment
Ulcer In late January, I underwent an endoscopy which revealed a duodenal ulcer. I have been taking medications such as proton pump inhibitors and gastric mucosal protectants for over two months now, but there has been no improvement. My daily routine is normal, and I pay close a...
Dr. You Ligang Reply:
Hello, here is the response: Generally, if it is a simple duodenal ulcer, it is very well treated, and the medication you are taking, Baidu Kua, is a specific treatment. If there is no improvement after more than two months of medication, aside from a few cases due to insufficien...[Read More] Managing Duodenal Ulcers: When Symptoms Persist Despite Treatment
Post-Meal Drowsiness: Is It a Sign of Underlying Health Issues?
Feeling drowsy after eating! I often fall asleep suddenly while lying down to watch TV after dinner (this has been happening for a while). Could this be a symptom of some condition? During a previous health check, it was noted that my red blood cell count was low and that my red ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, after eating, there is an increase in blood circulation to the gastrointestinal tract, which often makes one feel drowsy, especially when lying down to watch TV, making it easy to fall asleep. If you also experience fatigue and sleepiness during the day, it may be worth ch...[Read More] Post-Meal Drowsiness: Is It a Sign of Underlying Health Issues?
Understanding Liver Explosion: Symptoms and Related Conditions
Regarding liver issues? Hello Dr. Chen, could you please tell me what the symptoms of liver explosion are? Is liver explosion also referred to as acute liver failure?
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, acute liver failure (often referred to informally as "explosive liver failure," though this term is not used in medical terminology) refers to a rapid deterioration of liver function due to any cause, leading to hepatic encephalopathy within 8 weeks of onset. Sym...[Read More] Understanding Liver Explosion: Symptoms and Related Conditions
Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Issues
Regarding the issue of gastric protrusion? Since I was young, my stomach has been particularly protruding, specifically the area between my chest and my navel. I occasionally experience stomach pain and have poor digestive health. When I eat a larger meal or right after eating, m...
Dr. You Ligang Reply:
Hello, the organs in the upper abdomen include the stomach, intestines, and the left lobe of the liver. If there has been a noticeable protrusion since childhood, it may be worth considering a hernia. If you feel a firm sensation when pressing on it, it could be pressing against ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Issues
Can I Get Vaccinated for Hepatitis B Antibodies After Cure?
Can antibodies be administered after curing hepatitis B? Hello Doctor: I am a carrier of Hepatitis B with a 33-year history. I have currently cleared the e-antigen, but my antibodies are still negative. Can I receive the antibody vaccine? My second question is: I want to become a...
Dr. Zhang Siyuan Reply:
In response to your questions: (1) Antiviral medications for hepatitis B carriers can effectively suppress the replication and activity of the hepatitis B virus in liver cells, reduce the level of liver inflammation, and prevent the deterioration of the condition in hepatitis B p...[Read More] Can I Get Vaccinated for Hepatitis B Antibodies After Cure?
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
Can I Breastfeed with These Virus Levels? Expert Advice on Hepatitis B
Is it safe to breastfeed with this level of viral load? Based on your viral load, with HBsAg at 5773 and HBeAg at 11.58, both indicating a positive result, it is important to consider the implications for breastfeeding. Your SGOT is 22 and SGPT is 21, which are within normal limi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Huang: 1. Breastfeeding poses a lower risk of transmitting hepatitis B (and the newborn has already received the hepatitis B vaccine), please discuss this with your obstetrician. 2. It is important to regularly monitor liver function and undergo ultrasound examinations....[Read More] Can I Breastfeed with These Virus Levels? Expert Advice on Hepatitis B
Can Breastfeeding Be Safe for Hepatitis B Carriers?
What is the viral load of hepatitis B that allows for breastfeeding? As a carrier of hepatitis B, your test results show SGOT 22, SGPT 21, HBsAg 5773, and HBeAg 11.58. It is generally considered safe to breastfeed if you are a hepatitis B carrier, as the virus is not transmitted ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Huang: 1. Breastfeeding poses a lower risk of transmitting Hepatitis B (and the newborn has already received the Hepatitis B vaccine), please discuss this with your obstetrician. 2. Regular monitoring of liver function and ultrasound is recommended. 3. Please discuss th...[Read More] Can Breastfeeding Be Safe for Hepatitis B Carriers?
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 Upper Abdominal Swelling: Signs of Liver or Gastrointestinal Issues?
Abdominal distension? I have recently started experiencing swelling in my upper abdomen. I would like to ask the doctor if this could be a sign of liver disease or if it is related to gastrointestinal issues. I often cough to the point of having nausea and sometimes vomit what I ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, abdominal distension in the upper abdomen requires evaluation by a physician and possibly further examination to determine the cause, which could be related to gastrointestinal issues or liver and biliary problems. If there is severe coughing, it can indeed lead to nausea ...[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Swelling: Signs of Liver or Gastrointestinal Issues?
Can Hepatitis B Mothers Breastfeed? Understanding Risks and Guidelines
Hepatitis B carrier Is it safe to breastfeed with hepatitis B? Will it transmit to the newborn? Some doctors say it's okay, while others say it's not. Additionally, doctors mention that the virus can mutate. What are the levels of AST (GOT) and ALT (GPT) that would requ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Huang: Generally speaking, infants who receive vaccinations can develop a certain level of immunity. Additionally, if the mother's viral load is not high (not solely based on liver function), the risk of transmission through breast milk is low. The timing for treat...[Read More] Can Hepatitis B Mothers Breastfeed? Understanding Risks and Guidelines
Understanding Bloating with Reduced Gas: Causes and Next Steps
Bloating with a decrease in flatulence? Dear Doctor, I have been experiencing a dull sensation under my left rib cage recently, which sometimes extends to the left side of my lower back. This has been ongoing for a week. I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner wh...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, an abdominal ultrasound can generally rule out liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic diseases as the cause of pain after eating, which is more related to gastrointestinal issues. Bloating is usually relieved by passing gas or burping. The causes of bloating include poor dieta...[Read More] Understanding Bloating with Reduced Gas: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Fluid Buildup Between Stomach and Pancreas: Causes and Prevention
Why do I have blisters between my stomach and pancreas? Hello, doctor: I recently had an ultrasound examination and found an abnormality. The hospital scheduled me for a CT scan, and the doctor mentioned it could be a cyst or some tissue. I'm very worried! I also went to two...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Chris: The presence of cysts in the organs (liver, kidneys, pancreas) is often due to non-specific reasons. If they are not large and are monitored every 3 to 6 months without any changes, they are usually benign and there is no need for concern. Changhua Hospital cares...[Read More] Understanding Fluid Buildup Between Stomach and Pancreas: Causes and Prevention