Important Considerations for Allergy Medications in Hepatitis B Patients
What should patients with hepatitis B pay attention to when using antihistamines? Hello, I have been a carrier of hepatitis B for over a decade. This year, my tests showed GOT 79 and GPT 101 for the first time. My doctor has prescribed liver-protecting medication for me. Addition...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello, everyone metabolizes and reacts to medications differently, so it is not possible to confirm whether the antihistamine you are taking may harm your liver; regular monitoring is necessary. How long have you been taking the antihistamine? Did you use it before the blood test...[Read More] Important Considerations for Allergy Medications in Hepatitis B Patients
Understanding the Effects of Hepatitis A Vaccine on Chronic Hepatitis B Carriers
Hepatitis A vaccine Doctor: Hello! I would like to ask if a chronic carrier of hepatitis B will experience any side effects from receiving the hepatitis A vaccine, such as worsening liver condition or an increased risk of contracting hepatitis A. For example, the oral polio vacci...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello Cynthia: The reported side effects of the hepatitis A vaccine are very mild, including headache, discomfort, vomiting, fever, nausea, and systemic reactions, with an incidence rate of approximately 0.8% to 12.8%. These side effects typically resolve on their own, and allerg...[Read More] Understanding the Effects of Hepatitis A Vaccine on Chronic Hepatitis B Carriers
Understanding Liver Toxins: What You Need to Know About Hepatitis B Treatment
The term "hepatotoxin" is used to refer to substances that are toxic to the liver? Hello Dr. Chen: I recently had a liver function test and was found to have hepatitis B, with the doctor stating that my liver toxin levels are in the tens of millions, indicating that the...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Ou: Your question is quite complex. It is recommended that you visit the "Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment Foundation" to read relevant information and discuss it in detail with your physician. In brief, hepatotoxins refer to the viral load of hepatitis ...[Read More] Understanding Liver Toxins: What You Need to Know About Hepatitis B Treatment
Understanding Elevated Liver Function Tests: Causes and Concerns
Abnormal liver function tests? Hello, Doctor. Last week, I had a liver function test, and the results showed elevated liver enzymes: AST: 162, ALT: 220, ALP: 79. I would like to ask if these values are very concerning, especially since I just completed my postpartum confinement p...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, your liver enzyme levels are elevated, indicating inflammation, and you need to be closely monitored and get plenty of rest. There are many reasons for changes in liver function related to Hepatitis B, such as fatigue, other viral infections, alcohol consumption, medicatio...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Function Tests: Causes and Concerns
Can Gastroscopy Reveal Your Lifestyle Habits Like Smoking and Drinking?
Information that can be obtained from gastroscopy? Can a gastroscopy reveal your usual habits? For example, can a gastroscopy indicate whether you smoke or drink alcohol?
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello Ben, the main purpose of an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for any lesions, including inflammation, erosion, ulcers, tumors, and changes related to lifestyle habits. Widespread lesions may be associated with irritant medi...[Read More] Can Gastroscopy Reveal Your Lifestyle Habits Like Smoking and Drinking?
Understanding Active Hepatitis B: Treatment Options and Next Steps
Hepatitis B carriers are actively infected with the virus? A 31-year-old male, originally a carrier of hepatitis B, discovered during a health check that his liver enzymes were excessively high, ranging from 400 to nearly 500. Further testing at a larger hospital revealed a very ...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello Jenny! 1. According to the doctor, 640 million → there was no unit provided for the test result. If the unit is copies/mL, then the viral load is very high. 2. A biopsy is recommended before treatment → Is interferon therapy suggested? If so, your physician may want to a...[Read More] Understanding Active Hepatitis B: Treatment Options and Next Steps
Understanding Active Hepatitis B Infection: A Guide for Patients
The original hepatitis B carrier currently has a very active viral infection? A 31-year-old male, who is a carrier of hepatitis B, underwent a health check and found that his liver enzymes were elevated, reaching nearly 500. Further tests at a larger hospital confirmed that he is...
Dr. Li Xuanshu Reply:
Hello Jenny! 1. According to the doctor, 640 million → without the testing unit attached, if the unit is copies/mL, then the viral load is very high. 2. A biopsy is needed before treatment → is it recommended to undergo interferon therapy? If so, your physician may want to app...[Read More] Understanding Active Hepatitis B Infection: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Active Hepatitis B Infection: A Guide for Patients
The hepatitis B virus infection is currently very active among carriers? A 31-year-old male, who is a carrier of hepatitis B, discovered during a health check that his liver enzyme levels were excessively high, ranging from 400 to nearly 500. Further tests at a larger hospital re...
Dr. Chen Jianhong Reply:
Hello Jenny! 1. According to the doctor, 640 million → without the unit of measurement attached, if the unit is copies/mL, then the viral load is very high. 2. A biopsy is recommended before treatment → Is interferon therapy suggested? If so, your physician may want to apply f...[Read More] Understanding Active Hepatitis B Infection: A Guide for Patients
How Much Aflatoxin Exposure Can Lead to Liver Cancer?
How much aflatoxin does one need to consume to develop liver cancer? Dear Dr. Hsu, I have undergone abdominal ultrasound examinations by two different physicians. The doctor at the Tzu Chi Douliu Clinic reported a small dark shadow and noted that the spleen appears larger than u...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello, since you do not have hepatitis B or C, the likelihood of malignant tumors is low. However, if you are still concerned, a CT scan can be arranged for further evaluation. I'm not sure about the size of the small dark spot that was seen on the original ultrasound; somet...[Read More] How Much Aflatoxin Exposure Can Lead to Liver Cancer?
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes and High Uric Acid Levels: What to Do?
Regarding liver enzymes? During a recent newborn health check, the sGPT value was 37, indicating elevated liver enzymes. Is this serious? Additionally, the serum uric acid level was 9, which seems to be significantly above the normal range. What should I do?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. A-Qi: Due to the association with metabolic syndrome, please pay attention to reducing fat intake and increasing physical activity. For further information, please refer to <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/36394">#36394</a>. Changhua Hospital ca...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes and High Uric Acid Levels: What to Do?
Understanding Hepatitis C: Symptoms, Causes, and Recovery Insights
Symptoms? Dr. Lin... The previous report indicated that I tested positive for Hepatitis C virus antibodies (retesting required). It also mentioned that if marked positive, blood donation is not permitted. The normal result is negative, and the retesting is required when I intend ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. A positive antibody test for the hepatitis C virus indicates a past infection with hepatitis C, and approximately 80% of individuals will develop chronic hepatitis. 2. Staying up late does not cause hepatitis C infection; hepatitis C is caused by infection with the h...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis C: Symptoms, Causes, and Recovery Insights
Understanding Ascites and Pleural Effusion in Cirrhosis Patients
Cirrhosis complicated by ascites and pleural effusion? A friend of mine has developed cirrhosis due to long-term alcohol consumption and has recently been experiencing frequent coughing and shortness of breath. An emergency visit revealed pleural effusion. I would like to ask, si...
Dr. Chen Jianhong Reply:
Hello, the ascites has improved, but there is still pleural effusion, so it is necessary to identify the cause of the pleural effusion. The presence of ascites indicates that your friend's cirrhosis is quite severe. It is essential to limit salt and fluid intake. Dizziness m...[Read More] Understanding Ascites and Pleural Effusion in Cirrhosis Patients
Struggling with IBS for 3 Years: Seeking Answers for Ongoing Pain
Suffering from irritable bowel syndrome for 3 years? Hello Doctor, I have been suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) for three years, which causes stomach pain, intestinal pain, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. That's basically it, and I don't know why I can't...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, Apan: Liver, gallbladder, and pancreatic diseases can sometimes present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. Your gastrointestinal issues may be related to irritable bowel syndrome. It is important to pay attention to your dietary habits and emotio...[Read More] Struggling with IBS for 3 Years: Seeking Answers for Ongoing Pain
High r-GTP Levels Indicate Alcoholic Hepatitis: What You Need to Know
The r-GTP level for alcoholic hepatitis reached as high as 161? After fasting for eight hours, I underwent a urinalysis and blood test at a general clinic. The report shows the following abnormalities: Total cholesterol = 221 mg/dL, Triglycerides = 284 mg/dL, r-GTP (Gamma-glutamy...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Dear Mr. Tian, Your elevated levels related to alcoholic hepatitis are associated with alcohol consumption; you need to abstain from drinking, and your levels may decrease as a result. Your high blood lipids and uric acid require attention to dietary control and reduced alcohol ...[Read More] High r-GTP Levels Indicate Alcoholic Hepatitis: What You Need to Know
Understanding Interferon Treatment for Hepatitis C: What Happens Next?
After administering interferon for type C hepatitis? Dr. Chen: Hello, I started receiving interferon treatment and taking oral medication for about 5 weeks in August this year. During my follow-up appointment, the doctor informed me that if the virus load decreases by over 100 af...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mr. A-Qin, Currently, there is no consensus on the treatment options for recurrence after interferon therapy for hepatitis (of course, there is also no insurance coverage, except for liver protection medications). You may discuss with your physician the possibility of using...[Read More] Understanding Interferon Treatment for Hepatitis C: What Happens Next?
Managing Alcohol and Sleep Medication: A Guide for Liver Health
Both the liver and kidneys can be harmed; excessive alcohol or strong medications can cause damage? Hello Dr. Chen, I am 155 cm tall and weigh 43 kg. I have been drinking for about 15 years and smoking for 25 years. I have a history of hospitalization for alcoholic liver disease ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. SILK: It is recommended that you first visit the psychiatric outpatient clinic to gradually reduce your dosage. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Managing Alcohol and Sleep Medication: A Guide for Liver Health
Managing Diuretics for Ascites in Cirrhosis: Dosage Adjustments Explained
Diuretics Hello! My father has cirrhosis. He saw the doctor yesterday, and since his overall condition has improved, the doctor reduced his diuretics from taking half a tablet of Lasix (Furosemide) daily (20mg) and two tablets of Aldactone (Spironolactone) (totaling 50mg) to just...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mr. Wang Hong, The management of ascites due to liver cirrhosis often requires the use of Aldactone (spironolactone) in combination with Lasix (furosemide), along with the restriction of salt and fluid intake. Changhua Hospital is concerned about your health. Sincerely, ...[Read More] Managing Diuretics for Ascites in Cirrhosis: Dosage Adjustments Explained
Essential Tips for Managing Hepatitis B and Supporting Liver Health
Regarding Hepatitis B? Hello, I would like to ask: besides regular monitoring and adequate rest for hepatitis B, what else should be noted? Are there specific foods that can help support liver health? Thank you!
Dr. Li Xuanshu Reply:
Hello, there is no specific food that has therapeutic effects on the liver, so a balanced diet is sufficient. It is important to avoid smoking and alcohol, and to refrain from taking medications indiscriminately, such as herbal remedies, supplements, and health products.[Read More] Essential Tips for Managing Hepatitis B and Supporting Liver Health
Feeling Nauseous After Eating Too Fast or Overeating?
Eating too quickly or feeling nauseous after a meal can lead to the urge to vomit? Eating too quickly or feeling nauseous and bloated after a meal may be related to the recent consumption of spicy and acidic foods.
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, Ah-Wen. Eating too quickly or feeling nauseous and bloated after a meal, as well as consuming spicy or acidic foods, can be related to dietary habits. It is recommended to chew food thoroughly and to avoid irritating foods. If the symptoms persist severely, in addition to ...[Read More] Feeling Nauseous After Eating Too Fast or Overeating?
Understanding Alcoholic Hepatitis: Symptoms, Risks, and Next Steps
Alcoholic hepatitis Hello, I underwent a liver function test at a laboratory in early September for insurance purposes. The normal range is 78, but mine was over 400. Does this mean I have alcoholic hepatitis (I drink alcohol daily and stay up late)? I would like to know what alc...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mr. Lin: Please visit the gastroenterology outpatient clinic and refrain from alcohol consumption. An assessment for liver fibrosis and hepatitis B/C is necessary (if not absolutely unavoidable, you should also refrain from drinking alcohol for two consecutive days each week...[Read More] Understanding Alcoholic Hepatitis: Symptoms, Risks, and Next Steps