Should My Mom Stop Taking Liver Supplements After Two Years?
Is it necessary to stop taking liver supplements if used for an extended period? Hello Dr. Chen, thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to help those of us in need. I would like to ask for your advice regarding my mother, who is 58 years old. She has been taking ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Ken: 1. DNA testing can generally be performed every 3 to 6 months, but it must be paid out of pocket. 2. If two consecutive years of treatment are completed (and if DNA cannot be detected after 6 months), the general principle is to discontinue medication and observ...[Read More] Should My Mom Stop Taking Liver Supplements After Two Years?
Understanding a 10-Centimeter Liver Tumor: Risks and Management for Diabetic Patients
Regarding a liver tumor larger than 10 centimeters? Hello, my grandfather has discovered a liver tumor that is over 10 centimeters in size today. He has had diabetes for many years. No one in our family has had issues with hepatitis B, and there are no liver disease problems amon...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Miss Hsiao-Ju, First, we will conduct blood tests and imaging studies (CT scan or MRI) to preliminarily determine the type of tumor. If there are still concerns, a small biopsy of the tumor may be performed for further analysis. If it is liver cancer (or cholangiocarcinom...[Read More] Understanding a 10-Centimeter Liver Tumor: Risks and Management for Diabetic Patients
Understanding the Side Effects of Hepatitis Ling Injection: What You Need to Know
What side effects should be noted for Hepatitis B (Liver) injection? I previously wrote to you: Hello Doctor... I had an index of over 300 and took Gan An Neng for more than a year, during which my HBeAg turned negative. After taking it for another six months, I stopped the medic...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello! The medications mentioned from mainland China do not have clear evidence regarding their effectiveness, so I cannot provide appropriate recommendations. Generally, the efficacy of Tenofovir or Entecavir is significantly better than that of Adefovir, so one should not assum...[Read More] Understanding the Side Effects of Hepatitis Ling Injection: What You Need to Know
Understanding Fatigue: When to See a Gastroenterologist or Neurologist
Easily fatigued? Hello Doctor: I have been feeling very fatigued over the past month, often experiencing dizziness and a desire to sleep. Occasionally, the dizziness is accompanied by gastrointestinal discomfort and nausea. Could this condition be indicative of any particular ill...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Purple: Please first visit the gastroenterology department to check your liver function and other related tests. If the results are normal, you can then be referred to another department (neurology) for further examination and treatment. Changhua Hospital cares about yo...[Read More] Understanding Fatigue: When to See a Gastroenterologist or Neurologist
How to Support a Family Member with Chronic Hepatitis B Concerns
How can we help her? Dear Doctor: My family member (temporarily referred to as Ms. A, please forgive me for wanting to maintain some privacy) is a carrier of hepatitis B. She previously had elevated liver enzyme levels, which were finally controlled after treatment with Hepa-Merz...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Loss of appetite, abdominal bloating, and insomnia require identifying the underlying cause, whether it is psychological or physiological. After treatment for hepatitis B, it is important to continue monitoring; liver function should be closely observed for potential recurrence o...[Read More] How to Support a Family Member with Chronic Hepatitis B Concerns
Do Liver Transplants Require Matching Blood Types?
Is it necessary for a liver transplant to have the same blood type? Is it necessary to have the same blood type for a liver transplant? If I need a liver transplant in the future, since I am type O and my wife is type B, and her entire family has hepatitis B, only my wife and chi...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello! If you need a liver transplant, you can only receive type O blood. In principle, it's best to have the same blood type for a liver transplant to reduce the risk of rejection. However, type O blood can be donated to others, but individuals with type O blood can only re...[Read More] Do Liver Transplants Require Matching Blood Types?
Should I Take Liver An Neng and Liver Shi Neng Together or Choose Beileke?
Is it better to take Hepanone and Hepanorm together, or should I take Belek? Hello Doctor, I apologize for writing you so many letters. Previously, my e-antigen was over 300, and I took Tenofovir for more than a year, during which my e-antigen turned negative. After taking it for...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello! Some studies have confirmed that taking both together can reduce the likelihood of developing drug resistance in liver function. However, as you mentioned, cost is a significant consideration. When you referred to medications from mainland China, what specifically were you...[Read More] Should I Take Liver An Neng and Liver Shi Neng Together or Choose Beileke?
Deciding Whether to Resume Medication After Stopping: A Liver Health Dilemma
What should I do if my condition relapsed after stopping Danazol after a year and a half of use? Hello doctor... I previously had an index over 300 and took antiviral medication for more than a year, during which my e-antigen turned negative. After taking the medication for anoth...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello! Indeed, this situation can be quite distressing. Your physician's perspective is not incorrect; while inflammation may decrease, the current assessment suggests a higher likelihood of ongoing inflammation. Additionally, although your E antigen is negative, your GPT le...[Read More] Deciding Whether to Resume Medication After Stopping: A Liver Health Dilemma
Understanding Abnormal Urine Bilirubin Levels: What You Need to Know
Abnormal bilirubin in urine? Hello, Dr. Lin. My health check report shows abnormal bilirubin levels. Liver function tests: ALK-P: 45, S.G.O.T. (AST): 14, S.G.P.T. (ALT): 11, HBsAg (EIA): (-), Anti-HBs (EIA): (+), HCV-Antibody: (-), Chest X-ray: no abnormalities. I would like to k...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
1. The menstrual period should not affect the urine bilirubin test. 2. The presence of bilirubin in the urine may indicate elevated conjugated bilirubin levels in the blood, which can have various causes that require differential diagnosis, including medications and liver-bilia...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urine Bilirubin Levels: What You Need to Know
How to Address Elevated Bilirubin Levels for Clearer Eyes
Hyperbilirubinemia Hello doctor, over the past year, I have been preparing for graduate school and have experienced long-term insomnia, which has caused my eyes to appear slightly greenish-yellow. I underwent tests and found out that I have elevated bilirubin levels, which is cau...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Seek medical attention as soon as possible. The physician will determine the cause of jaundice through the patient's medical history, physical examination, blood tests, and various imaging studies. This will lead to further treatment. Jaundice is an abnormal condition in whi...[Read More] How to Address Elevated Bilirubin Levels for Clearer Eyes
Understanding Liver Regeneration with Entecavir in Cirrhosis Patients
Regarding the liver regeneration function associated with the use of "Belac" (Bepotastine besilate)? Dear Dr. Chen, I have purchased your book and would like to consult you regarding my father, who is 60 years old and has related health issues. Two years ago, he was ho...
Dr. Chen Jianhong Reply:
Hello: My father has cirrhosis and underwent embolization two years ago. After that, the embolized area was surgically removed. He has been developing tumors every six months, which have been treated with alcohol injections. In October 2006, with the physician's permission, ...[Read More] Understanding Liver Regeneration with Entecavir in Cirrhosis Patients
Understanding Bitter Taste and Bad Breath: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues
The issue of bad breath? Hello, Dr. Lin. This week, I've been experiencing a slight bitter taste in my mouth every day, along with some bad breath. My friends say it might be a stomach issue, but I don't feel any indigestion or stomach discomfort. My appetite is normal,...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Halitosis is associated with various conditions, including poor oral hygiene, gastrointestinal issues, and the consumption of strong-flavored or spicy foods. Certain liver, kidney, and intestinal obstruction diseases can also produce distinctive odors. It is recommended to mainta...[Read More] Understanding Bitter Taste and Bad Breath: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues
Can Hepatitis C Be Fatal? Understanding Risks and Testing Options
Can hepatitis C be fatal? Doctor Lin, I currently work at a hair salon. The other day, a client mentioned that she has hepatitis C. She also undergoes regular monitoring. While I was washing her hair and rinsing, I noticed a small, pinhole-sized wound that was bleeding just a lit...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
1. Hepatitis C can be transmitted through blood. There is a possibility of infection if there is contact between wounds or if a wound comes into contact with blood from a person infected with Hepatitis C, but infection is not guaranteed. The incubation period for Hepatitis C is b...[Read More] Can Hepatitis C Be Fatal? Understanding Risks and Testing Options
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes in Infants: What Parents Should Know
Liver function tests in infants? Dear Doctor, My daughter has just turned one year old. Recently, we visited the pediatric endocrinology clinic due to concerns about her low weight. After a blood test, the doctor indicated that her liver enzyme levels were elevated at 42. During...
Dr. Chen Jianhong Reply:
Hello, Mrs. Chen! A value slightly higher than the normal range may have pathological significance, and it may be necessary to consult a pediatric hepatologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes in Infants: What Parents Should Know
Understanding Liver Cirrhosis: Causes, Diagnosis, and Fibrosis Insights
Cirrhosis Dear Vice President Tsai, I have a few questions I would like to ask you, thank you. 1. What are the causes of liver nodules? Does the presence of liver nodules indicate the presence of liver cirrhosis? 2. Can liver cirrhosis be detected through ultrasound? 3. If the ...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Cirrhosis can be detected through ultrasound, which may appear coarse; however, the liver does not necessarily exhibit signs of fibrosis. The definition of cirrhosis involves hepatocyte necrosis, with the remaining liver cells regenerating to form nodular structures surrounded by...[Read More] Understanding Liver Cirrhosis: Causes, Diagnosis, and Fibrosis Insights
Understanding Your Liver Biopsy Report: Key Insights for Patients
Pathology report that is difficult to understand? Dr. Chen, I apologize for bothering you again. Today, I went to the hospital to obtain a copy of my pathology report. This was an important examination that led to the decision to undergo interferon therapy. However, due to the ru...
Dr. Chen Jianhong Reply:
Hello! Your liver biopsy report indicates that your hepatocytes are inflamed (chronic active hepatitis) and there is stage 1 liver fibrosis. The liver biopsy and viral load tests are different; I'm not sure if you have had your viral load tested (HBV DNA or HCV RNA) (we don&...[Read More] Understanding Your Liver Biopsy Report: Key Insights for Patients
Understanding Gallstones: Symptoms, Risks, and Surgical Options
Gallstones I discovered this two years after giving birth. At that time, I was experiencing unexplained back pain, which led to further examinations. A CT scan revealed that I had two types of stones, and my gallbladder wall was somewhat thick (I don't know how thick). The s...
Dr. Chen Jianhong Reply:
Hello! The symptoms mentioned in the letter are quite vague, so it is advisable to promptly visit a hepatobiliary specialist for a detailed examination. If it is indeed necessary to remove the gallbladder due to gallstones, it will not affect digestive function. Menstruation shou...[Read More] Understanding Gallstones: Symptoms, Risks, and Surgical Options
Post-Interferon Treatment Questions: Understanding Liver Health and Next Steps
Questions after completing a six-month interferon treatment? Hello Dr. Chen: I recently completed 25 weeks of interferon treatment in November 2006. I started treatment because I am a carrier of hepatitis B, and I have been undergoing regular follow-ups with blood tests and abdom...
Dr. Chen Jianhong Reply:
Hello Mr. Wang! Dear Doctor: I just completed a 25-week interferon treatment in November 2006. I started treatment because I am a carrier of hepatitis B, so I have regular follow-ups every six months for blood tests and abdominal ultrasounds. Before the end of 2004, my liver func...[Read More] Post-Interferon Treatment Questions: Understanding Liver Health and Next Steps
Is Lower Always Better? Understanding Liver Function Test Results
Health check data Hello, regarding general liver function tests (such as AST, ALT, AFP, etc.), is it true that lower values are always better within the normal range? My previous AFP levels were around 1 before I was diagnosed with hepatitis B and C, but this time it has increase...
Dr. Liu Nanshan Reply:
Liver function tests (GOT, GPT, AFP) fluctuate within a certain range, similar to a heartbeat. The test results should only be considered as references, as many factors can influence the results (such as medications, alcohol, weight gain, etc.). Physicians will not solely rely on...[Read More] Is Lower Always Better? Understanding Liver Function Test Results
Improving Liver Function: Addressing Yellowing Skin and Thyroid Health
Yellowing of the hands and slight yellowing of the face? Hello, I would like to ask how to improve poor liver function? My hands are yellowish, but I do not have jaundice. Additionally, will taking medication for hypothyroidism help restore normal function, and what are the chanc...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
1. Poor liver function requires identifying the underlying cause and treating it accordingly to improve the condition. Common causes include chronic viral hepatitis, chronic hepatitis B, hepatitis C, fatty liver, alcohol-related issues, biliary problems, endocrine disorders (such...[Read More] Improving Liver Function: Addressing Yellowing Skin and Thyroid Health