Understanding Black Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Bowel issues I have been experiencing black stools for the past week, and they have a particularly foul odor. I haven't eaten any dark-colored foods. I also feel a hard sensation and pain above my navel and to the upper right. I had my gallbladder removed over four years ago...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: You have abdominal pain accompanied by black stools, which raises differential diagnoses for gastrointestinal bleeding (such as peptic ulcer, gastroenteritis, mucosal injury due to medications or alcohol, and dyspepsia). It is recommended to follow up with a gastroenterolo...[Read More] Understanding Black Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Possible Medication Effects
Liver dysfunction Hello Doctor, six months ago my liver function tests showed GOT at 26 and GPT at 37, both within the normal range. However, during a recent blood test, I found that GOT is now 108 and GPT is 280. Previously, I took several medications for Helicobacter pylori, in...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
→ First, exclude the possibility of hepatitis B/C, then discontinue the medication and observe. We can only suspect a possible correlation (unless we conduct a one-by-one drug trial again, which is not recommended).[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Possible Medication Effects
Managing Gastroesophageal Reflux: Symptoms, Treatment, and Weight Concerns
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) issues? Hello, doctor. Two weeks ago, I experienced chest pain while eating, and after seeking medical attention and undergoing an endoscopy, I was diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastritis. Currently, I am taking t...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
No need for now, maintain a normal diet, reduce sweet and acidic foods, and follow up later.[Read More] Managing Gastroesophageal Reflux: Symptoms, Treatment, and Weight Concerns
Understanding Chest Tightness and Breathing Difficulties: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Chest tightness and difficulty breathing? Hello Doctor: On November 21 (Saturday), I went to the emergency room because I suddenly experienced chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and rapid heartbeat shortly after taking a shower. The hospital conducted chest X-rays, blood test...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Hello, you reported the following symptoms: 1. Chest tightness, shortness of breath, and rapid heartbeat. 2. Mild dizziness and nausea, which are common symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), including heartburn and acid regurgitation. Generally, chest tightness, sho...[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness and Breathing Difficulties: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello, Doctor: Earlier this year, I underwent an endoscopy due to symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The esophagus showed some discoloration, but it wasn't severe, so I didn't pay much attention to it. Last month, ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The burning sensation is likely related to issues with stomach acid production. As for whether it may be accompanied by other problems, adjustments to medication, diet, body posture, mental stress (including insomnia), or constipation, as well as gastrointestinal motility ...[Read More] Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Can You Safely Combine Blood Pressure Medications with Viagra?
Are there any drug interactions or adverse effects? Currently, I am taking antihypertensive medication (Cozaar 50mg) and Nexium 40mg, one tablet each daily. Can I also take Viagra or similar medications? If so, are there any potential side effects? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There should be no interactions; however, it is recommended to discuss with the prescribing physician.[Read More] Can You Safely Combine Blood Pressure Medications with Viagra?
Understanding Heartburn and GERD: Causes and Treatment Insights
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Recently, I have been experiencing heartburn without the burning sensation in my chest. My doctor prescribed 1. Mosa (metoclopramide) to promote gastric emptying, 2. Kowell (antacid) tablets, 3. Kascoal (simethicone) for gas relief, and 4. V...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is possible that your gastroesophageal junction has become relaxed, which may cause reflux when lying down at an angle or flat due to gravity. It is recommended to undergo an endoscopy for confirmation, and you may apply for strong gastric medications covered by health insuran...[Read More] Understanding Heartburn and GERD: Causes and Treatment Insights
Understanding Right Lower Abdomen Swelling: Causes and Solutions
Swelling in the right lower abdomen? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a few questions. 1. I experience a feeling of obstruction when passing gas and having bowel movements; I have to exert a lot of force or squat to relieve myself. My stools are either flattened or about the ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, a 32-year-old male is experiencing constipation and has grade III hemorrhoids. Straining during bowel movements can exacerbate the hemorrhoids, and severe hemorrhoids can sometimes lead to difficulties in passing stool. Causes of constipation may include dietary habits, in...[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdomen Swelling: Causes and Solutions
How to Collect Stool Samples During Diarrhea: Tips for Patients
How to collect stool samples for diarrhea with watery stools? I have been experiencing diarrhea for a week. When I eat, my stools are powdery (sinking to the bottom, yellow-brown), and when I don't eat (for an entire day), I have watery stools (yellow liquid). I consulted a ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello, Miss Violet. You can use a bedpan or a basin, and then transfer the sample into the container provided by the hospital. If your symptoms do not improve, you may return for a follow-up appointment to discuss with your physician whether a change in medication is necessary. T...[Read More] How to Collect Stool Samples During Diarrhea: Tips for Patients
Missing Two Pills: Should I Consult My Doctor About H. Pylori Treatment?
If you are missing two pills of the medication for Helicobacter pylori, should you see a doctor again? Hello, last week I had an endoscopy that revealed a mild ulcer and the presence of Helicobacter pylori. My doctor prescribed medication for the Helicobacter pylori infection, wh...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is advisable to cooperate with the implementation of the triple therapy as much as possible. However, generally speaking, reducing the intake of stomach medications for two days should not significantly affect the success rate of eradication.[Read More] Missing Two Pills: Should I Consult My Doctor About H. Pylori Treatment?
Digestive Issues in Seniors: Causes, Symptoms, and Dietary Solutions
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask you about my elder family member. Whenever they consume even a small amount of fatty foods such as pork belly, lard, or milkfish belly, they experience abdominal pain and diarrhea within minutes. There is a lot of gas in ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Elderly individuals may have poorer metabolic and digestive functions, making it more difficult for them to absorb fatty foods, which can lead to diarrhea. It is important for seniors to maintain a balanced diet that is low in greasy foods for better absorption. Probiotics...[Read More] Digestive Issues in Seniors: Causes, Symptoms, and Dietary Solutions
Managing Chronic Gastritis and GERD: Tips for Reducing Post-Meal Discomfort
Chronic gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause postprandial bloating and abdominal pain. To alleviate these symptoms, consider the following strategies: 1. **Eat Smaller Meals**: Consuming smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce the pressure on the s...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, after meals, I often experience abdominal pain and bloating, along with gastroesophageal reflux and chronic gastritis, for which I am currently undergoing medication treatment. The postprandial bloating and pain can be quite distressing. How can I alleviate this? I recom...[Read More] Managing Chronic Gastritis and GERD: Tips for Reducing Post-Meal Discomfort
Can You Take STROCAINE and Pantoprazole Together for Stomach Issues?
STROCAINE and Pantoprazole Due to gastric ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux, the doctor prescribed this medication. Can these two medications be taken together? Will strocaine affect the efficacy of pantoprazole? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The two medications have different mechanisms of action and can be used together. According to the pantoprazole prescribing information, it can be taken on an empty stomach or after meals, and its absorption will not be affected when used in conjunction with antacids. Wish...[Read More] Can You Take STROCAINE and Pantoprazole Together for Stomach Issues?
Understanding Bowel Issues: From Constipation to Diarrhea and Blood in Stool
Bowel movement issues I have had severe constipation issues since I was 9 years old (with all three sections of the colon filled with stool). Recently, I'm not sure if it was due to exam stress or something else, but I have been alternating between diarrhea and constipation,...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello, children: It is recommended that you seek medical examination as soon as possible. Dr. Cai Jin-ji, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: From Constipation to Diarrhea and Blood in Stool
Can Bacon Contain Pork Tapeworms? Understanding Risks and Treatments
Pork parasites Hello, doctor: I would like to ask if pork tapeworms can be present in bacon. Recently, I had bacon fried rice from a restaurant, where the bacon was shredded into pieces and added to the rice. The bacon appeared red after cooking, and I initially thought it was cu...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The likelihood of infection should be low (it is rare in Taiwan). If you are concerned, you can schedule an appointment with the infectious disease department.[Read More] Can Bacon Contain Pork Tapeworms? Understanding Risks and Treatments
Can PPI Medications Interact with Antacids for Stomach Relief?
Do PPI medications interact with gastric milk? Hello Doctor: I have undergone an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and was recently diagnosed with a gastric ulcer (two small lesions) along with mild gastroesophageal reflux and no pylorus. My primary physician has prescribed a prot...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
As long as they are not used simultaneously, they will not affect the absorption of PPIs (proton pump inhibitors).[Read More] Can PPI Medications Interact with Antacids for Stomach Relief?
Managing Nausea and Vomiting in Post-Operative Ulcer Patients: A Guide
For patients with gastric ulcers who experience recurrent nausea and vomiting after discharge from the hospital, it is important to follow these management strategies: 1. **Dietary Modifications**: Encourage a bland diet that is easy to digest. Avoid spicy, acidic, or fatty food...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. If a gastroscopy has been performed and a diagnosis of peptic ulcer has been confirmed, generally, medication treatment should provide relief. If there is still no improvement, it may be necessary to investigate other causes, such as issues with bowel movements, liver, ...[Read More] Managing Nausea and Vomiting in Post-Operative Ulcer Patients: A Guide
Post-Circumcision Surgery: Can Glycerin Suppositories Help with Constipation?
After a surgical excision of a mole, if you are experiencing difficulty with bowel movements, is it permissible to use glycerin suppositories? Four days after circumcision surgery, I am unable to have a bowel movement. I had normal bowel movements for the first three days, but on...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: A 44-year-old male has questions after hemorrhoidectomy. Post-surgery, the main concerns are pain management, avoiding constipation, and wound healing. It is advisable to consult a colorectal specialist for more detailed information. After surgery, it is important to follo...[Read More] Post-Circumcision Surgery: Can Glycerin Suppositories Help with Constipation?
Understanding Bloating and Heartbeat Sensations After Meals
Diaphragmatic distension and gastrointestinal bloating? Hello, doctor! I have severe diaphragm spasms and often experience stomach pain (severe bloating that I am unsure if it will have any effects). A gastroscopy showed that I have chronic gastritis and Helicobacter pylori! Addi...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hi: It is important to pay attention to any signs of autonomic nervous system dysfunction. You have chronic gastritis and Helicobacter pylori infection. It is recommended to be mindful of your dietary habits, try to relax, avoid eating too quickly, do not overeat, and refrain fro...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Heartbeat Sensations After Meals
Understanding Medication Issues in Gastroenterology: Takepronod and Herbal Interactions
Medication-related issues Hello Doctor, 1. I have been taking medication for gastroesophageal reflux disease, and my doctor prescribed Takepronod (a dissolvable tablet). Normally, dissolvable tablets should be held in the mouth until they dissolve, but I accidentally swallowed ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
This medication is considered safe for oral administration, and there is currently no research proving any interactions with traditional Chinese medicine.[Read More] Understanding Medication Issues in Gastroenterology: Takepronod and Herbal Interactions