Understanding Mild Gastric Ulcers: Symptoms, Treatment Duration, and Medication Safety
Mild peptic ulcer-related issues? Hello, Doctor. I had an endoscopy two weeks ago due to stomach discomfort, and the doctor mentioned that I have a mild gastric ulcer. The doctor prescribed several medications including "Heliobacter pylori eradication therapy, Sucralfate, Om...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Improvement can be expected within a few days, and it can be combined with anxiety medication.[Read More] Understanding Mild Gastric Ulcers: Symptoms, Treatment Duration, and Medication Safety
Can Gastritis and GERD Cause Fatigue? Recovery Time Explained
Gastrointestinal issues and fatigue? Doctor, I have undergone an endoscopy and was diagnosed with mild gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastritis. Can gastritis cause fatigue and weakness in the body? Additionally, how long does it typically take to recover from gastrit...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The effects of reflux medications can be seen within a few days, but stopping the medication may lead to a relapse. However, it is not related to fatigue.[Read More] Can Gastritis and GERD Cause Fatigue? Recovery Time Explained
Post-Laparoscopic Surgery Gastrointestinal Issues: Understanding Adhesions and Symptoms
Gastrointestinal issues following gynecological laparoscopic surgery? Hello Doctor, I underwent laparoscopic surgery on June 27, 2023, due to an ectopic pregnancy, during which one of my fallopian tubes was removed. The doctor mentioned that I had pelvic inflammatory disease, and...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Intestinal adhesions are related to an individual's constitution and can be discussed with a surgeon. They are generally not associated with reflux. Medications for bloating or motility often help, and if necessary, further evaluation at a hospital can be considered.[Read More] Post-Laparoscopic Surgery Gastrointestinal Issues: Understanding Adhesions and Symptoms
Does Hepatitis C Treatment Affect Glomerular Filtration Rate?
Does hepatitis C treatment affect the glomerular filtration rate? My father is 75 years old and has three high conditions, which are currently managed with medication. He started taking Epclusa for hepatitis C on July 5th of this year. Before starting the medication, his glomerul...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Will hepatitis C treatment medications affect glomerular filtration rate? According to the prescribing information for Epclusa, no dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with any degree of renal impairment, including those requiring dialysis. The medications may slightly aff...[Read More] Does Hepatitis C Treatment Affect Glomerular Filtration Rate?
Is It Normal for Stool to Turn Gray After Taking Shufuda Powder?
Shufuda Oral Suspension Powder Is it normal for bowel movements to turn gray after taking the anti-diarrheal powder, Shufudazhi? I've only been eating white toast and boiled eggs for the past few days due to diarrhea, and I'm unsure if this is related. Thank you.
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
1. Medications can help form the stool. 2. If the stool turns grayish-white, it is advisable to monitor the situation. If the gastroenteritis improves but the stool remains grayish-white, it may indicate potential liver or biliary issues, and further examination is necessary. Wis...[Read More] Is It Normal for Stool to Turn Gray After Taking Shufuda Powder?
Understanding Barrett's Esophagus: Treatment Options and Expert Guidance
Please advise on the active treatment options for Barrett's esophagus? Dear Dr. Chen, I am a 41-year-old male, 174 cm tall and weighing 90 kg. My past medical history includes peptic ulcer disease and irritable bowel syndrome. Currently, I have moderate fatty liver disease,...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to start medication and follow up with an endoscopy in one year, and then consider endoscopic treatment if necessary. In Taiwan, this is not commonly practiced; patients must go to a medical center for a complete preoperative evaluation, and decisions will be ma...[Read More] Understanding Barrett's Esophagus: Treatment Options and Expert Guidance
Understanding Increased Bowel Movements: Concerns and Insights
Increased frequency of bowel movements? Hello Dr. Chen, In the past, I had a bowel movement about 1 to 2 times a day. Recently, due to elevated blood sugar and cholesterol levels, I have been taking medications to lower them. Additionally, I have started to eat more fruits regul...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A fecal occult blood test can be performed first. The follow-up interval depends on individual circumstances and the physician's workload, typically ranging from 1 to 3 years. The precursors to colorectal cancer often take more than 5 to 10 years to develop.[Read More] Understanding Increased Bowel Movements: Concerns and Insights
Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Issues
Bloating issues? For over two months, I have been experiencing bloating issues. Whenever I start eating, my abdomen begins to swell, and I end up passing gas throughout the day. My appetite is poor, and I have difficulty eating. I underwent an endoscopy, which revealed inflammati...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Prokinetic medications can be taken before meals, and it is advisable to eat small, frequent meals.[Read More] Understanding Bloating: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions for Gastrointestinal Issues
Does Combining Masopride and Bisacodyl Worsen Constipation?
Is taking Masopride together with Bisacodyl likely to worsen constipation? Hello, doctor. Recently, you prescribed me two medications, but after taking them together, I still experience bloating and have no urge to have a bowel movement. Could these two medications be interacting...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It should be a complementary additive effect, and it is recommended to consume more fruits and vegetables, as well as to take walks after meals to promote peristalsis.[Read More] Does Combining Masopride and Bisacodyl Worsen Constipation?
Understanding Stool Color Changes: When to Seek Medical Attention
Stool color Hello doctor, today after using the restroom, I noticed that my stool appeared to be half brown and half off-white. However, the color on the toilet paper after wiping was a normal yellow-brown. I have not taken any medications recently, and my diet has been normal. S...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Further observation is recommended. If pale grayish stools persist, it is advised to visit a gastroenterology and hepatology clinic. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Stool Color Changes: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Treatment Duration and Expectations
Elevated liver enzymes? Hello Doctor, my mother is 68 years old. Her blood test results show GOT/GPT over 300, and r-GT over 1500. Her bilirubin level, which was originally 18, has decreased to 8, but it is still quite high. Recently, my mother has been taking liver and bile medi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The recovery of liver function and the underlying causes of the disease will determine the timeline, which can typically range from 1 to 3 months. Please discuss this with your attending physician.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Treatment Duration and Expectations
Understanding Appetite Loss and Related Issues in Elderly Patients
Loss of appetite related issues? Hello Doctor, thank you for taking the time to read and respond. My father is 72 years old and has recently experienced severe phlegm production. We are unsure if this is due to quitting smoking (he went from smoking two packs a day to not smoking...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can consult a gastroenterologist for examination, medication management, and nutritionist advice. For the lungs, you may consider self-paying for a lung CT scan.[Read More] Understanding Appetite Loss and Related Issues in Elderly Patients
Impact of Taking Multiple Stomach Medications: What You Need to Know
Medication issues This morning, after having breakfast, I accidentally took my pain relief medication, Acetaminophen, along with my gastric medications, Moshu Weiqing enteric-coated tablets and Gaske Er tablets, which I was supposed to take before meals. What impact could taking ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Eating more is not a problem for now; continue taking the others as scheduled.[Read More] Impact of Taking Multiple Stomach Medications: What You Need to Know
Severe Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Insights
Left upper abdominal pain Hello, doctor! I have been experiencing severe pain in the left upper abdomen, around the rib area, possibly between the third and fourth ribs. The pain is located at the midpoint between the ribs on both sides, approximately 4 to 5 centimeters to the le...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A chest X-ray can be performed to rule out any specific issues. Other possibilities may include nerve or fascial inflammation, which can be treated with local heat application and analgesics. For bowel movements, it is advisable to reduce oil and dairy intake, and if necessary, m...[Read More] Severe Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Insights
Is It Safe to Use 20mg Bowel Medication? Concerns About Cancer Risks
Does 20 mg of Polysaccharide Peptide (保幽樂錠) cause cancer? Hello, doctor. I have a habit of researching the medications prescribed to me online. I came across news stating that "Bismuth Subsalicylate 20 mg" may be carcinogenic. However, this medication was prescribed to ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is no specific cancer risk. If there are no symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, you may discuss with your physician the possibility of taking the medication only as needed.[Read More] Is It Safe to Use 20mg Bowel Medication? Concerns About Cancer Risks
Managing Constipation and Abdominal Discomfort: A Gastrointestinal Guide
Lower abdominal discomfort and constipation issues? Hello doctor, this week my stools have been like rabbit pellets. This morning I woke up with a lot of bloating and discomfort in my lower abdomen, particularly on the left side. When I press on my lower abdomen, it feels like I ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
# How to Effectively Eliminate Constipation It is recommended to increase fiber intake, drink plenty of water, and engage in moderate exercise to help form stools and promote bowel movements. Sources of hydration can include plain water, vegetables, fruits, soups, and unsweetene...[Read More] Managing Constipation and Abdominal Discomfort: A Gastrointestinal Guide
Understanding Green Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Green stool Hello Doctor: Since March 30th, almost every time I have a bowel movement, my stool has been green. Most of the time, the shape is normal, but occasionally it is unformed. I did some research online and found that it could be due to consuming dark-colored foods, but m...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
In addition to dark-colored vegetables, foods rich in iron, medications, and certain fruits can cause stool to appear darker. Stool color may also be darker during gastroenteritis or gastrointestinal bleeding. Stool color is related to diet; consuming more papaya, bananas, sweet ...[Read More] Understanding Green Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Digestive Issues: GERD vs. Gastritis and Weight Impact
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or gastritis? I have experienced occasional indigestion in the past, but recently, over the last two to three months, I have been frequently suffering from indigestion. I feel uncomfortable almost every time after meals, and I have been burp...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Obesity is often associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), so weight loss combined with reduced food intake is recommended. Avoid sitting still for long periods after meals, engage in weekly exercise, and refrain from consuming acidic, sweet, caffeinated beverages, ...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: GERD vs. Gastritis and Weight Impact
Managing GERD and Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Medications, and Dietary Tips
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), duodenal ulcer? I initially had some discomfort in my abdomen, so I underwent an endoscopy. The doctor diagnosed me with mild gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and a duodenal ulcer, with no issues related to Helicobacter pylori. The do...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can take the medication first and then decide whether to return for a follow-up based on your response before increasing the dosage. Additionally, if you don't have medication, it's advisable to return for a prescription. Be mindful to avoid foods that are hard on t...[Read More] Managing GERD and Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Medications, and Dietary Tips
Understanding Helicobacter Pylori Treatment: Is Your Medication Too Heavy?
Helicobacter pylori I have been experiencing stomach discomfort for over a month. I went to the hospital for an endoscopy, and the doctor diagnosed me with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastric ulcer, and chronic gastritis. The examination revealed the presence of Helic...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, each individual's condition is different, so it is advisable to discuss with the original treating physician or prescribing doctor. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Helicobacter Pylori Treatment: Is Your Medication Too Heavy?