Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms and Solutions
Gastrointestinal discomfort About two weeks ago, I started experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort with the following symptoms: my stomach occasionally makes strange noises, which I rarely experienced before. It's not the sound of hunger, as it occurs even after I've e...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Based on the symptoms, it appears to be a gastrointestinal issue, and abdominal ultrasound examination does not provide significant diagnostic value for gastrointestinal problems. It is recommended to take gastrointestinal medications along with a diet low in oil and dairy. If th...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Symptoms and Solutions
Is Too Much or Too Little Stomach Acid the Real Issue?
Too much or too little stomach acid? Hello Doctor: I have been visiting a gastroenterologist for many years, primarily for issues related to excessive stomach acid, bloating, or gastric discomfort. I have taken various antacids and proton pump inhibitors for many years and have a...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Gastroesophageal reflux refers to the symptoms caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, regardless of whether there is an issue of excess or insufficient stomach acid. Factors such as tea, coffee, spicy foods, high-fat and high-protein foods, smoking, alcoho...[Read More] Is Too Much or Too Little Stomach Acid the Real Issue?
Daily Belching: Understanding Causes and Further Testing Options
Belching daily? Since last July, I have been experiencing excessive belching multiple times a day. During this period, I underwent two gastroscopies in July and November, which revealed excessive gastric acid and bile reflux. My doctor prescribed pantoprazole and other gastric me...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It may be necessary to review your dietary and lifestyle habits to see if there are any factors causing gastrointestinal discomfort or irregular bowel movements. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist to evaluate whether there are any issues related to the liver...[Read More] Daily Belching: Understanding Causes and Further Testing Options
Can A Acid Cause Stomach Ulcers? Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastrointestinal issues Hello doctor, I have been taking isotretinoin recently. Will this cause gastric ulcers? I have been taking medication for my stomach, but it hasn't been very effective.
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It should be the retinoid for treating acne, right? Medications of this type should be used with caution as they can cause dryness of the oral mucosa, dermatitis, and long-term use may affect liver function and lipid levels. There are also some rarer side effects. The pack...[Read More] Can A Acid Cause Stomach Ulcers? Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Zinc Carnosine: A Potential Aid for Stomach Ulcers and GERD
Zinc carnosine and gastric ulcers? Hello Doctor, in July 2017, an endoscopy revealed a gastric ulcer along with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (no Helicobacter pylori). I took Naproxen for five months and stopped on December 15, 2017. On December 22, 2017, another endosco...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. It is not always necessary to add other medications or to take long-term maintenance medications. If symptoms persist despite medication, short-term use may be sufficient. 2. Additionally, please be mindful of your coffee or tea consumption, excessive stress, and irregu...[Read More] Zinc Carnosine: A Potential Aid for Stomach Ulcers and GERD
Feeling Full After Small Meals: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues Explained
Feeling full after just a small amount of food? Two weeks ago, I experienced severe bloating that caused me so much pain I couldn't sleep, and I even felt nauseous. For two to three days, the abdominal pain was sometimes located in the lower left abdomen, sometimes in the lo...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to drink plenty of water, maintain a balanced diet, and have daily bowel movements. If you experience severe pain, it is important to seek medical attention. You may take probiotics, but it is not advisable to take other over-the-counter medications witho...[Read More] Feeling Full After Small Meals: Possible Gastrointestinal Issues Explained
Understanding Bowel Issues: Medication Effects and Symptoms Explained
Bowel movement issues I previously underwent a colonoscopy and gastroscopy, which revealed some issues with my stomach, while my intestines were clean. The doctor prescribed me with Nizatidine, and since starting the medication, I have experienced persistent bowel irregularities ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
In clinical practice, many patients using medications like Nortriptyline may experience some degree of constipation. Generally, increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables and drinking plenty of water can help improve this condition.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Medication Effects and Symptoms Explained
Post-Meal Discomfort: Understanding Stomach Pain and Remedies
Discomfort in the stomach immediately after eating (just above the navel)? Hello, Doctor. I experienced gastrointestinal discomfort last night and throughout the day today. About five minutes after each meal, I start to feel discomfort in my stomach (just above the navel), accomp...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Some gastrointestinal medications should be taken before meals to enhance their effects after eating or to avoid food interfering with their efficacy. It is recommended to refrain from drinking coffee, as it can reduce gastric acid secretion. If there is still no improveme...[Read More] Post-Meal Discomfort: Understanding Stomach Pain and Remedies
Understanding Your Liver Biopsy Report: Key Insights on Hepatitis Types and Staging
Pathological Examination Report of Hepatitis Hello, Doctor. I recently underwent a liver biopsy at the hospital. After the examination, the physician only informed me of the presence of liver inflammation and recommended changes to my lifestyle, along with prescribing some liver-...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Mild steatosis and steatohepatitis (grade 1/3, stage 1/4). The report indicates: it is Grade 1 fatty infiltration and Grade 1 fibrosis, both of which are classified as mild. 2. Whether it is caused by hepatitis B or C depends on the blood test results. Fatty liver can a...[Read More] Understanding Your Liver Biopsy Report: Key Insights on Hepatitis Types and Staging
Medication Concerns for Chronic Hepatitis B Patients: A Guide
Medication issues Hello Dr. Tsai. I am a carrier of hepatitis B and experienced acute hepatitis last year. I am currently taking Baraclude (entecavir) 0.5 mg. I have been on antihypertensive medication, including 80 mg of Amlodipine and 2.5 mg of Bisoprolol daily. Last week, I al...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Please be aware that during the initial phase of taking lipid-lowering medications, there may be some discomfort. Other medications should not have any impact. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Medication Concerns for Chronic Hepatitis B Patients: A Guide
Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Time
Duodenal ulcer Hello Doctor: Recently, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and tested for Helicobacter pylori, which revealed symptoms of duodenal ulcer and gastritis (the Helicobacter pylori test was negative). However, I have been taking medication for nearly two mo...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If medications are taken on time, it is important to pay attention to diet and lifestyle habits. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Time
Persistent Diaphragm Spasms: A 10-Month Struggle for Relief
Persistent diaphragm spasm lasting for 10 months? Hello Doctor: My symptoms began in March 2017, when I suddenly experienced persistent contractions of the diaphragm. This is not the typical hiccup; the diaphragm contracts intermittently two to three times, or even more, and can ...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Dear M. Fang, based on your condition, you may consider having a physician evaluate the use of antipsychotic medications or mood stabilizers, but these should only be used under a doctor's guidance. Changhua Hospital cares about your health.[Read More] Persistent Diaphragm Spasms: A 10-Month Struggle for Relief
Persistent Hiccups and Acid Reflux: Understanding Your Symptoms
I have been experiencing acid reflux for two months, resulting in the expulsion of stomach acid? I have been experiencing burping after every meal since around mid-November last year, and each burp often brings up stomach acid. I frequently feel nauseous, but I don't have a ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. You may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Please visit the gastroenterology clinic for an examination, including an endoscopy, and consider using strong acid-reducing medications for treatment. In the meantime, please avoid acidic, sweet, and caffeinated fo...[Read More] Persistent Hiccups and Acid Reflux: Understanding Your Symptoms
Managing Gallbladder Surgery Risks in Patients with Heart Conditions
Cholecystectomy Hello, Director. Thank you for your response today regarding the following: "Issues with heart valves need to be evaluated and managed by both cardiology and cardiac surgery to prevent long-term cardiac dysfunction. Once the heart is stable, gallbladder surge...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. You can discuss with the cardiothoracic surgeon regarding the adjustments needed for medications after heart surgery if an emergency cholecystectomy is required. This is to minimize the risks of bleeding and infection. What potential changes may occur during this peri...[Read More] Managing Gallbladder Surgery Risks in Patients with Heart Conditions
Understanding GERD Medications: What to Expect When Switching Doctors
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) medications I had my first gastroscopy at Taoyuan Hospital. Previously, at another facility, my condition was considered serious, and the doctor prescribed me with a medication called "Xiangwei Tong." I wonder if switching hospital...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. There are different brands of strong stomach medications, but their effects are similar, so please don't worry. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding GERD Medications: What to Expect When Switching Doctors
Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Pain and distension in the lower abdominal triangle region? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing frequent diarrhea for the past 1 to 2 months. Last week, I underwent a stool test, and the results were normal. During this time, I took medications prescribed by the clinic, includ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. Please return to the outpatient clinic to discuss medication adjustments with your physician. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns
Managing Gastrointestinal Side Effects of Medications: A Guide
Drug side effects Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if I have a history of gastric ulcers and am prone to stomach pain from taking the wrong medications. Due to my condition, I need to take Metformin (Glucophage) three times a day. I am concerned if this will harm my stomach. Ad...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Metformin is an antidiabetic medication that is less likely to cause gastric ulcers. 2. You may consider discontinuing the medication or asking your physician to change it. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Managing Gastrointestinal Side Effects of Medications: A Guide
Understanding Level C GERD: Risks, Healing Time, and Medication Concerns
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) grade C? Hello Doctor: I am a patient with grade C gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). I would like to ask if, in addition to the fact that grade C has a higher degree of inflammation compared to grades A and B and requires a longer heal...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Proton pump inhibitors can be used for treatment for one year. 2. Repeated reflux may cause esophageal mucosal lesions. 3. If lifestyle habits that contribute to reflux can be modified, improvement may be achieved without medication. Changhua Hospital cares about your h...[Read More] Understanding Level C GERD: Risks, Healing Time, and Medication Concerns
Understanding Red Stains in Stool: Causes and Remedies
Bowel movement issues Hello, Doctor: 1. Sometimes when I wipe after a bowel movement, there is a little bit of red (but it's not fresh blood; the first wipe shows it, and by the second wipe, it’s just the normal stool color). It has been about a month since the last occurr...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Red vegetable fibers are usually present in the stool. 2. If the issue is unclear, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist or a colorectal specialist, and self-medication is not recommended. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Red Stains in Stool: Causes and Remedies
Do I Need to Return for Follow-Up on My Peptic Ulcer?
Should I return for a follow-up appointment for the ulcer? Hello, doctor: In February, I experienced irregular bowel movements, with a maximum of once a week. Therefore, I went to a clinic for an endoscopy. The examination revealed ulcers, but I did not have abdominal pain. The d...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, the issue with bowel movements is related to colonic motility and is mostly unrelated to gastric ulcers. Increasing fluid intake, consuming more fruits and vegetables, and exercising can help. If necessary, you may return for a follow-up and consider using laxatives. Chang...[Read More] Do I Need to Return for Follow-Up on My Peptic Ulcer?