Understanding Blood on Toilet Paper: Gastrointestinal Health Concerns
There is blood on the toilet paper? Hello Doctor: I am 25 years old and my bowel habits are about 2 to 3 times a week (the shape varies, and sometimes I experience abdominal pain and diarrhea). A few months ago, I was hospitalized due to a fever, and for a period of time, I had d...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, a 25-year-old female is concerned about noticing red streaks on toilet paper after bowel movements, which may indicate bleeding. She has a history of colonoscopy showing internal hemorrhoids and polyps. The polyps require follow-up colonoscopy. Hard stools can cause hemorr...[Read More] Understanding Blood on Toilet Paper: Gastrointestinal Health Concerns
Managing Barrett's Esophagus: Long-term PPI Use and Kidney Health Concerns
Could you please clarify your question regarding medication issues related to Barrett's esophagus? Hello, doctor. I was diagnosed with mild Barrett's esophagus after undergoing an endoscopy. My attending physician advised me to take medication for control and to have an...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Research reports indicate that long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may lead to chronic kidney disease. Most of these studies are retrospective in nature, and currently, there are no double-blind studies, so the level of evidence is not strong. Furthermore, the p...[Read More] Managing Barrett's Esophagus: Long-term PPI Use and Kidney Health Concerns
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Bitter Sweet Potato and Its Effects
Gastrointestinal issues Hello, doctor. Last night, I ate a small piece of bitter sweet potato, and afterwards, I felt something was off. When I peeled it open, I found black spots. About 10 to 30 minutes later, I started feeling uncomfortable, and after one or two hours, I felt b...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is likely no antidote; we will just need to observe for now.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Bitter Sweet Potato and Its Effects
Understanding Pinworm Resistance: Causes and Alternative Treatments
Anthelmintic resistance in pinworms? Excuse me, is there a problem with drug resistance concerning the antiparasitic medications sold at pharmacies? Several years ago, I was infected with pinworms (I'm very sure), so I went to the pharmacy to buy medication to resolve it mys...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is advisable to first go to the hospital (Infectious Diseases Department) to confirm the diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Pinworm Resistance: Causes and Alternative Treatments
Do Morning-After Pills Interact with Stomach Medications?
Will the emergency contraceptive pill interact with gastric medications? 1. I would like to ask if taking Mozart/moprid (an antiemetic and anti-flatulent) will affect the contraceptive effectiveness of my oral contraceptive pill. 2. Are there any precautions I should be aware of ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please discuss with the prescribing physician and consult with the obstetrician-gynecologist regarding their medication experience.[Read More] Do Morning-After Pills Interact with Stomach Medications?
Understanding Anal Itching and Abdominal Pain After H. Pylori Treatment
After taking medication for Helicobacter pylori, there is anal itching after bowel movements and tenderness in the left lower abdomen upon palpation? Hello, I would like to ask about a diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection. I've been experiencing multiple bowel movement...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Helicobacter pylori does not cause anal itching. Please complete the medication unless you experience an allergic reaction. One of the medications may increase bowel motility, which can lead to cramping or diarrhea in some individuals. Changhua Hospital cares about your he...[Read More] Understanding Anal Itching and Abdominal Pain After H. Pylori Treatment
Managing IBS: Medication Concerns and Colonoscopy Necessity
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Medication Issues Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing frequent abdominal cramps, bloating, and relief after bowel movements since middle school. Now that I am in college, I find that the duration of my symptoms has increased; I may have abdominal...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr. Jack, your condition seems more like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). I recommend that you first undergo a routine stool examination and consider taking medication to manage your symptoms for a period of time to see how it works. If the medication does not provide adequa...[Read More] Managing IBS: Medication Concerns and Colonoscopy Necessity
Understanding Brown Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns
The stool has brown mucus? Hello, I have recently noticed that my stools are coarser and have a brownish mucus on the surface, with some cracks at the front where mucus also appears. Additionally, the stools themselves are yellowish and contain many white specks resembling sesame...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The stool has coffee-colored mucus, and the feces are yellow with white spots. Abnormal stool can be related to food, medications, and intestinal diseases. If there are no changes, a stool test can be conducted, followed by further examinations. Wishing you peace and healt...[Read More] Understanding Brown Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Treatment, and Relief Options
Duodenal ulcer I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy on May 20th of this year, and the doctor diagnosed me with a duodenal ulcer, Helicobacter pylori infection, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Initially, I was prescribed antibiotics, but after a few days of ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. If you have not completed the full course of the antibiotic treatment, there may still be bacteria present. To confirm, you can test for Helicobacter pylori antigen in the stool or undergo a breath test, both of which can provide confirmation. 2. You might consider stop...[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Treatment, and Relief Options
Should I Consider Paying for Hepatitis B Medication?
Do I need to actively pay for medication out of pocket? I took the antiviral medication Entecavir (0.5 mg) covered by the National Health Insurance for three years, from April 2015 to April 2018. During the treatment period, both my viral load and liver function showed significan...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The health insurance regulations for hepatitis B in Taiwan comply with world standard guidelines, so there is no need to worry about temporarily stopping medication. The key point is that regular monitoring is necessary (which can be time-consuming for working individuals) to det...[Read More] Should I Consider Paying for Hepatitis B Medication?
Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Right upper quadrant pain? Hello Doctor: I started experiencing gastroesophageal reflux symptoms last year, but I have rarely had stomach pain. Two months ago, I underwent an endoscopy, and after taking proton pump inhibitors for two weeks, my symptoms improved, and I stopped tak...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely a case of abnormal peristalsis. Please adjust your diet and follow the prescribed medication. It is not related to Helicobacter pylori.[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Understanding GERD Medications: Lansoprazole vs. Ranitidine
Medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing discomfort in my stomach frequently, especially after meals, where I feel a sense of unease or heaviness in my stomach. Occasionally, I also have a sensation of a foreign body in my thro...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Drug L is a potent proton pump inhibitor, while Drug R is of moderate strength. Gastroesophageal reflux often requires stronger medications, and discontinuation can lead to relapse. Due to ethical restrictions on human trials in pregnant women, there is no research on the safety ...[Read More] Understanding GERD Medications: Lansoprazole vs. Ranitidine
Understanding Hiccups and Gas: Insights on Gastrointestinal Health
Gastrointestinal belching Hello Doctor, I have mild gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and slower gastric emptying. I haven't taken any medication until now. On May 6th, I underwent an upper endoscopy, and the doctor confirmed that I still have mild GERD, along with gast...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Your symptoms may be caused by medications that promote muscle movement. It may be advisable to discontinue their use. As for the need for a gastroscopy, it will depend on the results of the biopsy or if clinical symptoms arise. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. D...[Read More] Understanding Hiccups and Gas: Insights on Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Elevated Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Levels: Causes and Implications
γ-Glutamyltransferase A γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) level of 126 may indicate potential issues with the liver or bile ducts. Elevated GGT levels are often associated with alcohol consumption and the use of certain medications, but they can also be elevated due to other factors s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
This indicator may increase in fatty liver and other hepatobiliary diseases; it is for reference only and can be further monitored for comparison.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Levels: Causes and Implications
Understanding Appetite Loss, Stomach Pain, and Nausea: Key Insights
Loss of appetite, stomach pain, and nausea? Hello, doctor. I have a few questions: (Question 1) For the past 4 to 5 days, I have been experiencing a loss of appetite, sometimes not eating anything all day and only drinking nutritional water or jelly drinks. I have stomach pain ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Please visit a hepatobiliary and gastroenterology specialist for evaluation. Undergo liver function tests and an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.[Read More] Understanding Appetite Loss, Stomach Pain, and Nausea: Key Insights
Understanding Side Effects of Gastrointestinal Medications: A Patient's Concern
Side effects of gastrointestinal medications? Hello, Doctor. I started taking the stomach medication Lansoprazole Capsules 30mg once daily and Emetrol Tablets 10mg three times daily from May 6th. My last menstrual period was on May 8th, and I usually have a regular cycle. However...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
In a small number of patients, Metoclopramide may affect menstruation. It is advisable to discontinue the medication and monitor the situation, or to schedule an earlier follow-up to discuss alternative medications. If necessary, a gynecological evaluation should be considered. I...[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Gastrointestinal Medications: A Patient's Concern
Can Antacids Interfere with Birth Control Pills? A Guide for Patients
Gastroesophageal reflux and contraceptive pills? Hello, I have been taking the oral contraceptive pill, Diane, for over six months. Recently, I have been experiencing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Can I take medications for GERD alongside the contraceptive p...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: There is no interaction between medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and contraceptives; they can be taken two hours apart. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Can Antacids Interfere with Birth Control Pills? A Guide for Patients
Effective Treatment for Helicobacter Pylori: A Comprehensive Guide
Pharmacological treatment for Helicobacter pylori? If the doctor has diagnosed you with Helicobacter pylori after an endoscopy and prescribed a treatment regimen for two weeks, the medications listed are commonly used for this purpose. The prescribed medications are: - Metronida...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It should be a reasonable 4-in-1 treatment. However, I personally have no experience with it and mostly use 3-in-1 treatment.[Read More] Effective Treatment for Helicobacter Pylori: A Comprehensive Guide
Do You Really Need a Colonoscopy? Understanding Your Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Is a colonoscopy necessary? Hello Doctor, for the past six months to a year, my stools have been unformed, alternating between diarrhea and constipation. Sometimes I feel the urge to have a bowel movement, but I can't go, or I feel like I haven't fully emptied my bowels...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Abdominal ultrasound examination of the gastrointestinal tract is not very helpful. The likelihood of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is high. If symptoms persist, a colonoscopy may be considered.[Read More] Do You Really Need a Colonoscopy? Understanding Your Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Liver Transplant: A Patient's Journey
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor, I underwent a liver transplant in 2000. After the transplant, I experienced stomach pain about once every 2-3 months. Even when I don't have stomach pain, I am accustomed to getting an endoscopy once a year or every six months. Each time...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, 1. A nodule simply describes a raised structure, and a biopsy is a standard procedure; as long as the biopsy results are normal, there is no issue. 2. For medication responses, it is advisable to consult your attending physician. 3. Generally, it is not recommended to take...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Liver Transplant: A Patient's Journey