Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Colonoscopy?
Lower abdominal discomfort or pain? I have daily bowel movements, but I still feel the urge to have diarrhea after I go. I also pass gas frequently, about ten times a day, and I've been experiencing a dull pain lately (similar to premenstrual cramps). The discomfort goes awa...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss. Please check for occult blood in your stool and adjust your diet as well as your bowel motility medications. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shih-Tien.[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Colonoscopy?
Can Stress Cause Stomach Ulcers? Understanding the Connection and Risks
Stress as a source leading to gastric ulcers? Hello, I have a few questions: Question 1: The patient is approximately 39 years old. Can stress cause gastric ulcers? Can stress experienced over the course of a month or so lead to the development of a gastric ulcer? The patient h...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, stress can increase gastric acid secretion, leading to a higher incidence of ulcers. The formation of gastric ulcers is related to the excessive secretion of gastric acid and pepsin, as well as a decreased resistance of the gastric mucosa, and is influenced by many factors...[Read More] Can Stress Cause Stomach Ulcers? Understanding the Connection and Risks
Managing GERD Symptoms: Can Medication Alone Solve Your Discomfort?
Can gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms such as chest pain be resolved solely with the use of medications like Gaviscon? Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing a burning sensation in my chest since April. Initially, I thought it was a thoracic issue, so I underwent a...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss. It is advisable to discuss any medication issues with your attending physician. There should be no major concerns, so please rest assured. You only need to make long-term adjustments to your diet and medication. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian...[Read More] Managing GERD Symptoms: Can Medication Alone Solve Your Discomfort?
Understanding Digestive Issues: Impact of Medications on Stool Consistency
Bowel issues Hello, doctor. I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and was found to have gastritis and esophagitis. Afterward, the doctor prescribed Biozole 20mg and Famotidine 20mg for treatment. I would like to ask if these medications could cause my stools to be unfor...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. You should not worry. You can take photos for observation and schedule an earlier follow-up appointment to discuss with the physician. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Impact of Medications on Stool Consistency
Managing Antibiotic-Induced Bloating: Key Questions and Answers
Gastrointestinal bloating caused by antibiotics? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask about the issue of "gas in the stomach." Recently, I took an antibiotic called Azithromycin (ZITHROMAX) 250mg, and as a result, I started to feel bloated. Later, I went to the hospital f...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. The common side effects of this medication include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, stomach pain, and vomiting. This medication is known to frequently cause gastrointestinal side effects, but they usually resolve ...[Read More] Managing Antibiotic-Induced Bloating: Key Questions and Answers
Understanding Chest Pain: Possible Esophageal Inflammation After Fever
Chest tightness or chest pain? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about a high fever I had a few days ago. I took medication, but sometimes I took it without eating. At that time, my chest felt very hot, and it felt like something was stuck inside. After a few days, my fever subsi...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Remember to drink plenty of water when taking medication to prevent drug residue from remaining in the esophagus, which can cause esophageal ulcers, especially with capsule medications. Additionally, if the condition worsens, consider undergoing an endoscopy, and be aware ...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Possible Esophageal Inflammation After Fever
Managing Liver Tumor Treatment: Patient Guidance and Medication Options
Liver issues? My father has undergone multiple treatments for liver tumors, including several embolizations and radiofrequency ablations. During a follow-up appointment, his alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level was still 21.9. When I asked the attending physician, they were unsure of th...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, after multiple treatments for liver cancer, the AFP level remains high. It is recommended to compare the current AFP value with previous values. Common causes of elevated AFP include chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Elevated AFP can still occur in case...[Read More] Managing Liver Tumor Treatment: Patient Guidance and Medication Options
Understanding White Mucus and Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Bowel issues? Doctor, I recently noticed that the front end of my stool has white mucus with a bit of blood, and it is soft. Sometimes I also have diarrhea. What could this be? I'm worried it might be a serious condition.
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, the presence of mucus and blood in your stool, along with frequent diarrhea, may commonly indicate colitis. Colitis can be caused by various factors including general gastroenteritis, poor dietary habits, viruses, bacteria, parasites, medications, immune dysfunction, and a...[Read More] Understanding White Mucus and Blood in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Upper Abdominal Pain Above the Navel: Causes and Next Steps
Tenderness above the umbilicus, normal findings on gastroscopy? Hello, doctor. I am a 30-year-old male office worker who sits for long periods. My symptoms include tenderness in the abdomen, specifically at a small point just above the navel and just below the xiphoid process. Pr...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: After undergoing gastroscopy, colonoscopy, and ultrasound without finding any specific issues, it is important to consider functional problems, such as spasms or gastroesophageal reflux that does not cause esophagitis, as well as bloating and dyspepsia. It may be beneficia...[Read More] Upper Abdominal Pain Above the Navel: Causes and Next Steps
Should I Undergo Further Health Checks for My Ongoing Symptoms?
Should I undergo further comprehensive health screening? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing fatigue and dizziness for the past two months, so I would like to ask a question. On August 12, 2017, I drank quite a bit of alcohol for my birthday, and after returning home, I start...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The possible side effects of Propafenone (心利正) listed in the package insert include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, and decreased appetite. However, these may not necessarily be caused by the medica...[Read More] Should I Undergo Further Health Checks for My Ongoing Symptoms?
Understanding Gastric Blockage: When GERD Treatment Fails to Relieve Symptoms
Stomach blockage (feeling as if something is pressing on the stomach, with tightness in the area above the navel and below the xiphoid process)? Dear Doctor, I sought medical attention due to a feeling of gastric obstruction, as if something was pressing on my stomach. The area ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. You may discuss the diagnosis and medication further with a gastroenterologist, and please pay attention to any other accompanying symptoms. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Gastric Blockage: When GERD Treatment Fails to Relieve Symptoms
Managing GERD with PPIs: Concerns During Menstrual Cycle
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) + Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) + Menstrual period? Hello Doctor, I understand the concept from the article regarding gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients and routine endoscopy. Five years ago, I had an endoscopy that confirmed ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
1. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that can easily recur and varies in severity. Appropriate pharmacological treatment is recommended, with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) being the first-line choice. Some individuals may experience constipation or bloating af...[Read More] Managing GERD with PPIs: Concerns During Menstrual Cycle
Understanding Acid Reflux-Related Throat Inflammation: Treatment and Tips
The doctor diagnosed me with laryngitis caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? While studying in mainland China, I have been experiencing a sensation of a foreign body in my throat. After consulting doctors there and taking numerous medications for pharyngitis without ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Take on an empty stomach at a fixed time. 2. Long-term medication is not necessary; if symptoms improve, it is recommended to discontinue the medication. 3. In terms of diet, avoid tea leaves, coffee, soda, chocolate, sweets, glutinous rice products, high-fat/high-prote...[Read More] Understanding Acid Reflux-Related Throat Inflammation: Treatment and Tips
Is My Nighttime Chest Pain Due to GERD or Peptic Ulcer?
Could you please tell me if my acute symptoms are related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or a gastric ulcer? The symptoms occurred at night, presenting as unexplained pain located at the lower edge of the chest, just above the abdominal muscles, accompanied by soreness...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: While examining the heart, you can also consult a gastroenterologist to assess whether an endoscopy is necessary, as gastroesophageal reflux can present similar symptoms. It is advisable to avoid tea, coffee, smoking, alcohol, and late-night snacks. Changhua Hospital cares...[Read More] Is My Nighttime Chest Pain Due to GERD or Peptic Ulcer?
Persistent Pain After Gallbladder Removal: Seeking Answers and Solutions
Pain after gallbladder removal? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing discomfort and pain in my stomach and back since 2011, which has been severe enough to cause me to double over in pain. It wasn't until 2013 that I was diagnosed with gallstones and underwent traditional ...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist for examination.[Read More] Persistent Pain After Gallbladder Removal: Seeking Answers and Solutions
Understanding Digestive Issues After Liver Transplant: Bloating, Pain, and More
Abdominal bloating, belching, flatulence, abdominal pain? I have a history of liver transplantation and have experienced bowel sounds for several years, with bowel movements occurring every 1-2 days. In October of last year, I suddenly started having bowel movements every 2-3 day...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. If you have already undergone a colonoscopy and only have issues with hemorrhoids, then the blood after wiping is more likely to be due to hemorrhoidal bleeding. 2. The liver is located on the right side, so there is a high possibility of adhesions from surgery. 3. Ther...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues After Liver Transplant: Bloating, Pain, and More
Can Mosapride Help Treat Chronic Constipation? Expert Insights
Constipation issues? Dear Doctor, can medications like mosapride be used to treat chronic constipation, such as with products like Cholan and Motilac? I have been suffering from long-term constipation, and previous laxatives and enemas have not been effective. Would it be feasibl...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss. Mosapride can be used long-term in patients with constipation to promote gastrointestinal motility and can be used in conjunction with stool softeners. For other medications, please consult the pharmacy at your medical center. Changhua Hospital cares about your healt...[Read More] Can Mosapride Help Treat Chronic Constipation? Expert Insights
Navigating Unstable Liver Enzymes: Treatment Dilemmas for Chronic Hepatitis B
Persistent abnormal liver function tests without meeting the criteria for medication intervention? Hello doctor, I am a carrier of hepatitis B and I am about 40 years old. For the past 5 to 6 years, I have been regularly undergoing blood tests every three months. My ALT levels fl...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, this is a strategy mandated by the National Health Insurance Administration. There is no right or wrong; it depends on the discussion between the physician and the patient. If there is significant fibrosis, a biopsy may be considered to confirm whether cirrhosis is present...[Read More] Navigating Unstable Liver Enzymes: Treatment Dilemmas for Chronic Hepatitis B
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Bowel Issues: When to Seek Further Testing
Abdominal pain and bowel sounds? Hello, I have been experiencing abdominal pain, gastrointestinal rumbling, and fever for over three months. My bowel movements vary between diarrhea and constipation, and in the mornings, I sometimes have to go to the bathroom several times before...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Whether additional tests are necessary should be determined by the clinical physician, which may include a stool occult blood test or a colonoscopy. It is recommended to adjust your diet and emotions, and to increase your intake of fluids and fiber. If there is still no im...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Bowel Issues: When to Seek Further Testing
Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Do You Need Another Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing frequent diarrhea for the past two years. Every morning when I wake up, I have abdominal pain, which subsides after I use the restroom. Sometimes I experience constipation, and the symptoms of diarrhea and constipation alternate ...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Dear Mr. Yan, I hope this message finds you well. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be managed with certain medications or probiotics to alleviate symptoms. A balanced diet is recommended. There is no direct link between IBS and colorectal cancer; however, regular monitoring i...[Read More] Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Do You Need Another Colonoscopy?