Do I Need to Stop My Medications Before a Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy issues? Hello Doctor: I am taking medication prescribed by a urologist - Solifenacin, and medication prescribed by an obstetrician - Aldactone. Should I stop taking these two medications before undergoing a colonoscopy? If so, how long should I discontinue them? Thank...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can skip eating for that day, and if necessary, consult the prescribing physician.[Read More] Do I Need to Stop My Medications Before a Colonoscopy?
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Sleep Problems and Liver Health
Hello, doctor? Hello, Doctor! I have been unable to sleep in July and August this year, only falling asleep around 7 AM the next day. I have a long history of insomnia and irregular sleep patterns, but it was particularly severe this past July and August. In September, while taki...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. Fecal occult blood testing can be performed. 2. Eliminate poor dietary habits / weight loss. 3. Medications may be necessary to manage digestive symptoms. 4. Psychological evaluation may be needed for insomnia medication.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Sleep Problems and Liver Health
Understanding Antidiarrheal Medications: Effects and Side Effects
About antidiarrheal agents? Hello, doctor. If I take an antidiarrheal medication for a short period, I would like to ask: 1. How long does the effect last, and how soon after taking it does it start to work? 2. Besides potentially causing constipation, are there any other side ef...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The effects of the medication typically occur about 15-20 minutes after absorption, and the side effects depend on the class of the drug. Drowsiness and dizziness are not common.[Read More] Understanding Antidiarrheal Medications: Effects and Side Effects
Do You Need to Stop Medications or Fast Before a Stool Test?
Stool examination Is there a need to discontinue any medications or avoid certain foods before undergoing a fecal occult blood test using immunochemical methods?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
No need to stop medication, maintain a normal diet.[Read More] Do You Need to Stop Medications or Fast Before a Stool Test?
Do You Need to Stop Medications or Fast Before a Fecal Occult Blood Test?
Stool examination Is there a need to stop any medications or fast from certain foods before undergoing a fecal occult blood test using immunochemical methods?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
No need to stop the medication, maintain a normal diet.[Read More] Do You Need to Stop Medications or Fast Before a Fecal Occult Blood Test?
Understanding Persistent GERD: Causes, Treatment, and Weight Loss Concerns
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Doctor, I have a question. Since June until now, I had an endoscopy in September, which showed gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastric erosion, and mild esophagitis. I have been taking medication prescribed by the hospital since mid-...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is necessary to schedule an earlier follow-up appointment to discuss adjustments to medication or tests.[Read More] Understanding Persistent GERD: Causes, Treatment, and Weight Loss Concerns
Do You Need to Stop Medications or Adjust Diet for Fecal Occult Blood Testing?
Fecal occult blood immunochemical test? Hello doctor, I am currently taking Dexilant. I am about to undergo a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) for occult blood. Should I stop taking the medication or adjust my diet before this test?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
No need to stop medication, maintain a regular diet.[Read More] Do You Need to Stop Medications or Adjust Diet for Fecal Occult Blood Testing?
Managing Exam Stress: Tips to Prevent Stress-Induced Diarrhea
Nervousness can easily lead to diarrhea? Hello, doctor. The university entrance exam is approaching, but during mock exams, I often feel the urge to have a bowel movement, which prevents me from focusing on the test. However, as soon as the exam is over, the urge to go to the bat...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Yes, seek medical attention/short-term use.[Read More] Managing Exam Stress: Tips to Prevent Stress-Induced Diarrhea
Managing Nausea and GERD: Insights from Gastroenterology
Dry heaving, nausea, gastritis, GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) Q: After lying down and getting up, I feel nauseous and need to eat or drink something to alleviate it. Examination: Gastritis (no Helicobacter pylori), excessive gastric acid after 8 hours of NPO, gastroesoph...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Medication can be discussed with the primary care physician (medications to be taken at bedtime? Some may require out-of-pocket expenses?) along with weight loss, increased physical activity, and dietary adjustments.[Read More] Managing Nausea and GERD: Insights from Gastroenterology
Effective PPI Medications for Severe Acid Reflux Relief
Severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) I have been taking medication for a month and have undergone an endoscopy. The medication prescribed by the doctor has made my stomach acid more pronounced, and my mouth tastes very sour and bitter. Both Dexilant and Teva Pantoprazole...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Dear Miss Su-Cheng, You report severe gastroesophageal reflux that has persisted despite one month of medication. You have undergone an endoscopy, and both Dexilant and Tegaserod have not been suitable for you. Are there any milder PPI medications available? Dexilant and Tegase...[Read More] Effective PPI Medications for Severe Acid Reflux Relief
Managing Gastrointestinal Issues and Medication Consultation After Quitting Smoking
Consultation on Gastrointestinal Bloating and Medications Hello Dr. Chang, 1. After quitting smoking in early September, I have been experiencing withdrawal symptoms, including severe bloating. 2. On October 15, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and ultrasound. The...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Dear Mr. PY, You have the following concerns: (1) Can these medications be taken simultaneously? (2) Are there any side effects that should be particularly noted? (3) Can gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) simultaneously trigger nasal congestion, throat discomfort, hoarsenes...[Read More] Managing Gastrointestinal Issues and Medication Consultation After Quitting Smoking
Understanding Mopride 5mg: Safety and Interactions with Other Medications
Mopride 5mg Gastrointestinal Medication (Moshuwai Qing Enteric-Coated Tablets) Hello Dr. Zhang, due to gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux, I am currently on medication (for 7 days) including: - Panho Enteric F.C. 40mg (one tablet daily before meals) - Gaslan 40mg (one tablet ...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Hello Mr. PY: Regarding the cornerstone medication for gastroesophageal reflux, Panho Enteric F.C. 40mg, you inquired: [1] I take Mopride 5mg after dinner around 9 PM, and before sleep (around 11 PM), I take half a Zolpidem 10mg along with 10mg of Propranolol. Is this dangerous? ...[Read More] Understanding Mopride 5mg: Safety and Interactions with Other Medications
Understanding Left Chest Discomfort: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Sometimes there is a feeling of fullness or pressure in the lower left chest? A family member (born in 1944) has been taking antihypertensive medication for nearly 20 years. Earlier this year, they experienced bleeding from the gums at night and were taken to the emergency room, ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further observation is needed to determine if there are any antecedents (causal factors) and consequences (how much it may change), and this should be discussed with the primary physician first.[Read More] Understanding Left Chest Discomfort: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Loose Stools: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Health
Frequent loose stools? Hello Doctor, I usually have a bowel movement in the morning after waking up. Last year, I had an external hemorrhoid and became concerned about potential gastrointestinal issues, so I underwent a colonoscopy at the hospital. The doctor indicated that the r...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Your stool consistency does not seem abnormal; it is just a bit softer. If you experience excessive frequency, diarrhea, or cramping, then medication may be necessary. Just avoid irritating foods and there is no need to worry too much. Changhua Hospital cares about your he...[Read More] Understanding Loose Stools: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Health
Does Antibiotic Use Affect the Accuracy of H. Pylori Stool Tests?
Helicobacter pylori Hello Doctor, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, ultrasound, and Helicobacter pylori stool test on September 30th, and all results were normal. However, I would like to ask if taking 2 to 4 Amoxicillin capsules due to root canal treatment a while...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The dosage of the medication should not affect the test results.[Read More] Does Antibiotic Use Affect the Accuracy of H. Pylori Stool Tests?
Understanding Weekly Diarrhea: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Health
Diarrhea once a week? Hello Doctor: Since I had diarrhea after drinking yogurt two months ago, my bowel movements have been softer for the past two months. Recently, I have been experiencing diarrhea once a week for the past month (with watery stools), and it occurs at the same t...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely a case of abnormal gastrointestinal motility (irritable bowel syndrome), which can be managed with dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and medication.[Read More] Understanding Weekly Diarrhea: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Health
Understanding Dysphagia: When to Seek Further Gastroenterology Care
Dysphagia Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing sudden difficulty swallowing for the past six months. I have seen specialists in otolaryngology, rehabilitation, and gastroenterology. The otolaryngology examinations showed no abnormalities, and the rehabilitation specialists ref...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can go to a medical center to examine esophageal motility function/swallowing function.[Read More] Understanding Dysphagia: When to Seek Further Gastroenterology Care
Understanding Side Effects of IBS Medications: What to Expect
Side effects of medications for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Hello Doctor: I went to the hospital on September 3rd for abdominal pain, and the doctor diagnosed me with constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome. I was prescribed two medications: 1. FIatin (Caitlon) 40 m...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, Flatin contains Otilonium bromide, which is indicated for the relief of abdominal pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome. It acts as a smooth muscle relaxant in the gastrointestinal tract, with a duration of action of up to 12 hours. According to the package insert,...[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of IBS Medications: What to Expect
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues and Ulcer Concerns in Young Women
Gastrointestinal and ulcer-related issues? Hello, doctor. I have some questions I would like to ask you! I am a female college student, and my daily routine has been irregular for about two months, but I have recently adjusted back to a regular schedule. Regarding my menstrual cy...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: A 21-year-old female presents with abdominal pain and diarrhea, experiencing pain in both the upper and lower abdomen. The diarrhea is most likely due to gastroenteritis or indigestion. The lower abdominal pain could be attributed to either gastroenteritis or gynecological...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues and Ulcer Concerns in Young Women
Understanding the Discrepancy in H. Pylori Testing: A Patient's Journey
Helicobacter pylori Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing recurrent abdominal pain, so I visited a gastroenterologist for an examination. After undergoing an endoscopy, the doctor mentioned that there were some abrasions in my stomach, but no Helicobacter pylori was detected. I ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: There are two methods for detecting Helicobacter pylori during an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. One method involves taking a biopsy, which is then examined by a pathologist under a microscope to check for the presence of Helicobacter pylori in the gastric tissue. If th...[Read More] Understanding the Discrepancy in H. Pylori Testing: A Patient's Journey