Understanding Black Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Black stool issue Hello Doctor: Since last year, I have noticed black mucus in my stool that is not mixed with the feces. However, the explanations I found online only mention "entirely black stools" or "blood separated from stool," and there is no explanation...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist, who will determine whether to arrange for a fecal occult blood test or further colonoscopy. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Black Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Should Patients with Cirrhosis Undergo Regular Endoscopy for Esophageal Varices?
Esophageal varices Hello Doctor, my father has a history of liver cirrhosis and has been under hospital surveillance for many years. He underwent an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) three years ago, which did not reveal any esophageal varices. However, during his recent follow-up...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Patients with general liver cirrhosis are advised to undergo regular upper gastrointestinal endoscopy every 1 to 2 years. If there are any concerns, they may seek evaluation at other hospitals or clinics. Thank you.[Read More] Should Patients with Cirrhosis Undergo Regular Endoscopy for Esophageal Varices?
Should You Get a Hepatitis B Booster Shot After Needle Exposure?
Booster dose of hepatitis B vaccine? Hello, doctor. My relative is a patient with hepatitis B and diabetes. Yesterday, while assisting with blood sugar testing, I accidentally got pricked by a needle. However, my health check report when I entered university indicated that I have...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Booster shots are administered to enhance future immunity. Immune memory still largely remains intact.[Read More] Should You Get a Hepatitis B Booster Shot After Needle Exposure?
Managing Liver Cirrhosis: When to Consider Endoscopy for Esophageal Varices
Cirrhosis / Esophageal Varices Hello Doctor, my father has a history of liver cirrhosis and has been under hospital surveillance for many years. He underwent an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) three years ago, which did not reveal any esophageal varices. However, during his rece...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
In principle, examinations can be conducted every two years. However, if there is a significant decrease in platelet count or if the out-of-pocket liver fibrosis measurement value is high (>20 pKa), then examinations should be performed annually.[Read More] Managing Liver Cirrhosis: When to Consider Endoscopy for Esophageal Varices
Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Alternating diarrhea and constipation? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask a question. I was previously diagnosed with moderate fatty liver disease, and since then I have started exercising. However, since I began exercising, I have frequently experienced alternating constipation a...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Dear Mr. Anonymous: I am unsure how long you have been experiencing this situation. If you have changes in bowel habits accompanied by abdominal pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention for evaluation by a physician. Dr. Cai Jin-ji, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroen...[Read More] Alternating Diarrhea and Constipation: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Report: Key Insights on Gallbladder and Liver Health
Abdominal Ultrasound Report Dear Deputy Director, I would like to ask for your assistance in interpreting the abdominal ultrasound findings. Thank you. Findings: Biliary tract: Huge gallbladder (GB) with wall thickening and multiple stones. Liver: Smooth surface, no nodules...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there are gallstones accompanied by gallbladder enlargement or thickening of the gallbladder wall, and if there is right upper quadrant pain or suspicion of cholecystitis, it is necessary to go to the emergency department.[Read More] Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Report: Key Insights on Gallbladder and Liver Health
Understanding Mild Bile Duct Dilation: Causes and Follow-Up Care
Ultrasound shows intrahepatic bile duct dilation? In September of last year, an ultrasound during a health check at the hospital showed mild dilatation of the common bile duct, measuring up to 0.8 cm in diameter. In June of this year, a follow-up ultrasound was arranged at the ou...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
You can visit the hospital's hepatology and gastroenterology outpatient clinic for a more detailed explanation.[Read More] Understanding Mild Bile Duct Dilation: Causes and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Blood Test Results: What to Know About Liver and ALP Levels
Blood test index issues? Hello, I recently had a blood test, and most of the liver and gallbladder function tests were normal, except for the albumin/globulin ratio which is 1.45 (normal range 1.5-2.5). Is there anything I should be concerned about? Additionally, the medical tech...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is still normal for young individuals to have elevated ALP levels, so there is no need to worry.[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: What to Know About Liver and ALP Levels
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Treatment Duration and Expectations
Elevated liver enzymes? Hello Doctor, my mother is 68 years old. Her blood test results show GOT/GPT over 300, and r-GT over 1500. Her bilirubin level, which was originally 18, has decreased to 8, but it is still quite high. Recently, my mother has been taking liver and bile medi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The recovery of liver function and the underlying causes of the disease will determine the timeline, which can typically range from 1 to 3 months. Please discuss this with your attending physician.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Treatment Duration and Expectations
Understanding Abnormal Glutamate Transaminase Levels: Liver or Pancreas Issues?
Examination Report Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my test report showing an abnormal level of glutamate transaminase at 158. What kind of issue could this indicate? I have frequent social gatherings for work and have been drinking alcohol regularly for many years. Is thi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Liver inflammation. Please refrain from alcohol consumption and seek medical treatment.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Glutamate Transaminase Levels: Liver or Pancreas Issues?
Understanding Gastrointestinal and Liver Issues: Blood Test Guidelines
Blood tests for gastrointestinal or liver and kidney issues? For the past three to four months, I have felt like there is something in my throat. There have been several instances where I frequently feel nauseous and have the urge to vomit, but I can't. This happens in the m...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Feeling like there is something in your throat, frequently wanting to vomit, experiencing nausea without being able to vomit, could be due to gastrointestinal issues (such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, gastritis, or peptic ulcers). It may also be related to chronic pharyngi...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal and Liver Issues: Blood Test Guidelines
Understanding Elevated CEA Levels and Low AST: Key Concerns and Next Steps
Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) issues and AST issues? Hello, doctor. I have no history of smoking, but I recently received a report indicating that two indices from my company health check last month were abnormal: carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was elevated at 5.6 ng/ml, and liv...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A low AST level is likely due to low muscle mass rather than a disease. The interpretation of a high CEA level can vary among physicians; it is advisable to consult an oncologist. Strategy 1 is to undergo a comprehensive examination at your own expense, while Strategy 2 is to mon...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CEA Levels and Low AST: Key Concerns and Next Steps
Post-Liver Transplant: Managing Metastasis to Lungs and Bones
Post-liver transplantation metastatic therapy? Hello, doctor. A family member was hospitalized last year in August-September due to health issues and was diagnosed with liver cancer, which could not be surgically removed due to cirrhosis. After evaluation by the medical team, a l...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The current principle is to administer systemic treatment (chemotherapy or targeted therapy) for 2-3 months. If only a single lesion remains afterward, localized treatment (surgery, electrocautery, or radiation therapy) may be added.[Read More] Post-Liver Transplant: Managing Metastasis to Lungs and Bones
Understanding Diarrhea and Stool Color Changes After Gastroenteritis
Bowel-related issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my condition. The night before last, I had severe diarrhea, which was mostly watery, and I also experienced vomiting. In the morning, I went to a clinic and the doctor diagnosed me with gastroenteritis. They prescribe...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
After treatment for diarrhea and gastroenteritis, the stool has improved to a solid form, but it appears gray with white specks. This could be related to medication, gastroenteritis, or diseases of the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. During gastroenteritis, it is important to fo...[Read More] Understanding Diarrhea and Stool Color Changes After Gastroenteritis
Can Using the Same Cutting Board for Raw and Cooked Foods Spread Liver Flukes?
Liver fluke parasite Doctor, my home cutting board is not separated for raw and cooked foods. Yesterday, my mom cooked freshwater fish and then cut cooked beef on the same cutting board. Is there a risk of infection with liver flukes? We have been using it this way for a long tim...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Ultimately, cooking food thoroughly can help avoid issues. It is still recommended to pay attention to the hygiene of cutting boards.[Read More] Can Using the Same Cutting Board for Raw and Cooked Foods Spread Liver Flukes?
Managing Elevated T-Bilirubin: Insights for Liver Health
Laboratory report: T-bilirubin 1.41 is elevated. What are the next steps for management? The liver surface is rough (for several years) with no evidence of hepatitis A, B, or C, and no signs of metabolic syndrome. GOT is 21, GPT is 22, and there are no symptoms such as pain. Bowe...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is still within the normal range of fluctuations, so there is no need to worry.[Read More] Managing Elevated T-Bilirubin: Insights for Liver Health
Understanding Changes in Bowel Movements During Pregnancy: When to Seek Help
Loose and sticky stools? Currently, I am 35 weeks pregnant. Since week 31, my bowel movements have suddenly changed from being somewhat dry to becoming wet and sticky. They tend to stick to the toilet, and I feel like I am not completely clean after using the restroom. I have als...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is generally unnecessary; just maintain a balanced diet. During pregnancy, it is advisable to avoid non-essential medications. If discomfort arises due to uterine pressure on the intestines, you may discuss coping strategies with your obstetrician.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Movements During Pregnancy: When to Seek Help
Managing Side Effects and Dosage Adjustments for Nexavar in Liver Cancer Treatment
Issues related to the reduction of side effects and dosage adjustments for Nexavar in liver cancer treatment? Dear Dr. Lin, My father is 65 years old and has been diagnosed with liver cancer. He has been taking Nexavar at a dosage of 200 mg twice a day for nearly two years. Earl...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Lenvatinib is a multi-kinase inhibitor used as a targeted therapy for patients with advanced liver cancer. It works by reducing blood supply and slowing the growth of cancer cells, thereby inhibiting tumor growth and spread. The goal is to delay the progression of the tumor. Prol...[Read More] Managing Side Effects and Dosage Adjustments for Nexavar in Liver Cancer Treatment
Understanding Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: What You Need to Know
Total bilirubin Hello Doctor: Recently, my health check report showed elevated total bilirubin (T-Bil) at 1.99 mg/dL, elevated direct bilirubin (D-Bil) at 0.58 mg/dL, elevated r-GT at 151 U/L (I do not drink alcohol), and elevated GPT at 79 U/L. I would like to ask the doctor abo...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Abnormal liver function and mixed hyperbilirubinemia—where the ratio of direct bilirubin to total bilirubin is between 25-50%—may require differential diagnosis including various types of hepatitis (metabolic, drug-induced, alcoholic, viral, autoimmune diseases) and hematological...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: What You Need to Know
Risk of Hepatitis C Infection from Blood Splash: What You Need to Know
Exposure to blood splatter from a patient with hepatitis C? Hello, doctor. I am a nursing staff member at a certain hospital. Today, after performing dialysis on a patient, I accidentally got blood mixed with saline splashed into my eyes while cleaning the equipment. I can confir...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to first confirm the patient's viral load (patients with hepatitis C on dialysis have repeatedly been advised by the association to undergo definitive treatment to prevent transmission to others) and notify the infection control physician at your hospital. ...[Read More] Risk of Hepatitis C Infection from Blood Splash: What You Need to Know