Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome After Surgery: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Hello Doctor, I underwent a fistula surgery in January, and since then, my irritable bowel syndrome has worsened significantly (having bowel movements 4 to 6 times a day). Starting in April, I began taking medications such as Loperamide, enzymes, an...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to continue treatment observation and discuss with the surgical physician.[Read More] Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome After Surgery: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Can You Take Terfung with Helicobacter Pylori Antibiotics?
Helicobacter pylori medication issues? Can I take Terfung (an antibiotic for treating nail fungus) while on the Helicobacter pylori treatment regimen of Takepron, amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and metronidazole? I've heard that taking too many antibiotics at the same time may...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Antimicrobial combination medications and antifungal medications for onychomycosis should be taken at different times whenever possible to avoid potential interactions.[Read More] Can You Take Terfung with Helicobacter Pylori Antibiotics?
Concerns About Dependency on Laxatives: What You Need to Know
Medication Consultation: Laxatives Doctor, I apologize for asking, but I recently visited a gastroenterologist. Due to my issue of not having bowel movements, the doctor prescribed me a laxative to take once daily before bed for a week. I am concerned whether this will lead to an...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Short-term use will not cause dependence. Regularly consume more fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, and exercise. Medications can be used as a backup (take them only if there has been no bowel movement for three days).[Read More] Concerns About Dependency on Laxatives: What You Need to Know
Managing Bile Reflux: Lifestyle Changes and Dietary Tips for Relief
Stomach pain, diagnosed as bile reflux? Hello, Doctor. I have been experiencing stomach pain for a week, and my condition has not improved after visiting the clinic. Last Wednesday, I underwent an endoscopy at the hospital, which revealed bile reflux. The attending physician pres...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Bile reflux into the stomach is not necessarily harmful and is related to individual constitution. A normal diet, regular exercise, and medication management are usually sufficient.[Read More] Managing Bile Reflux: Lifestyle Changes and Dietary Tips for Relief
Managing Persistent GERD and Tongue Numbness: Seeking Solutions
Gastroesophageal reflux has been recurring for over six months. I have been taking medication to manage it, but it hasn't improved. Recently, I have experienced numbness in my tongue. What should I do? In the second half of 2022, I experienced a burning sensation in my throa...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello! It is advisable to discuss this with your attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Managing Persistent GERD and Tongue Numbness: Seeking Solutions
Understanding Changes in Bowel Movements During Pregnancy: When to Seek Help
Loose and sticky stools? Currently, I am 35 weeks pregnant. Since week 31, my bowel movements have suddenly changed from being somewhat dry to becoming wet and sticky. They tend to stick to the toilet, and I feel like I am not completely clean after using the restroom. I have als...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is generally unnecessary; just maintain a balanced diet. During pregnancy, it is advisable to avoid non-essential medications. If discomfort arises due to uterine pressure on the intestines, you may discuss coping strategies with your obstetrician.[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Movements During Pregnancy: When to Seek Help
Managing Side Effects and Dosage Adjustments for Nexavar in Liver Cancer Treatment
Issues related to the reduction of side effects and dosage adjustments for Nexavar in liver cancer treatment? Dear Dr. Lin, My father is 65 years old and has been diagnosed with liver cancer. He has been taking Nexavar at a dosage of 200 mg twice a day for nearly two years. Earl...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Lenvatinib is a multi-kinase inhibitor used as a targeted therapy for patients with advanced liver cancer. It works by reducing blood supply and slowing the growth of cancer cells, thereby inhibiting tumor growth and spread. The goal is to delay the progression of the tumor. Prol...[Read More] Managing Side Effects and Dosage Adjustments for Nexavar in Liver Cancer Treatment
Understanding Irregular Bowel Movements: When to Seek Medical Advice
Bowel issues Hello Doctor, I am in my 20s and I am not sure if this has been the case since childhood or if I have only recently noticed it. I have found that my bowel movements are never in the shape of a banana or sausage. I often feel the urge to use the bathroom multiple time...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is just a personal bowel habit and falls within the normal range, so there is no need to worry. If anxiety persists, a stool occult blood test can be performed.[Read More] Understanding Irregular Bowel Movements: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding the Impact of Medications on Duodenal Ulcers and Gallstones
Gallstones and duodenal ulcers issues? Hello, doctor. Before undergoing an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at the hospital, if I am currently taking medication prescribed by a clinic for nausea and vomiting, as well as for peptic ulcers or duodenal ulcers, and I do not stop taki...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to follow the doctor's orders for treatment, and to return for follow-up and consultation with the physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Medications on Duodenal Ulcers and Gallstones
Morning Bloating and Gas: Causes and Remedies for Your Discomfort
I experience bloating and excessive flatulence every morning? Hello Dr. Tsai, every morning when I wake up and still lying in bed, I often feel the urge to pass gas, but my family does not have this issue. Sometimes, I even feel the need to use the bathroom, which is a bit bother...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Waking up in the morning with the urge to pass gas or have a bowel movement is a personal habit and is generally not a concern. However, eating a late-night snack before bed is not recommended. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Morning Bloating and Gas: Causes and Remedies for Your Discomfort
Challenges in Eradicating Helicobacter Pylori: Treatment Options and Concerns
Failure of second-line eradication therapy for Helicobacter pylori? Hello, Director Chen: In January of this year, I underwent a breath test at Nantou Hospital and was diagnosed with Helicobacter pylori. The doctor prescribed a triple therapy (PPI: Pantoprazole and two antibioti...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is a 4-in-1 medication that can be taken first. If it fails, then a drug resistance test can be conducted. Many hospitals do not have the 4-in-1 medication available.[Read More] Challenges in Eradicating Helicobacter Pylori: Treatment Options and Concerns
Medication Consultation: Timing for Gastrointestinal Drugs Explained
Medication consultation Hello, doctor. Recently, I went to the hospital because I wasn't feeling well and received three medications for my stomach: 1. Gaiminglang (Gastric Minglang), 2. Famotidine enteric-coated tablets, and 3. Aiwai reverse chewable tablets. The instructio...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Yes, I agree to change it to after meals.[Read More] Medication Consultation: Timing for Gastrointestinal Drugs Explained
Long-Term Use of Medications: Impact on Gastrointestinal Health and Function
Taking Nizatidine and Omeprazole for more than 5 years, could it affect gastrointestinal function? Recently, due to the discontinuation of Laxative, taking fiber supplements has caused severe bloating and pain. Two years ago, a colonoscopy revealed black bowel syndrome, and the d...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Anemia is not related to gastrointestinal medications, but it is recommended to investigate the underlying cause (hematology). Stomach medications can be reduced in intensity (lower dosage or switch medications) or taken only when necessary. Laxatives are often needed due to indi...[Read More] Long-Term Use of Medications: Impact on Gastrointestinal Health and Function
Is It Gastroenteritis or Colon Cancer? Understanding Your Symptoms
Unsure if it's gastroenteritis or colorectal cancer? I have no family history of gastrointestinal issues. I underwent surgery and chemotherapy for colon cancer over a decade ago, and my follow-ups have shown no abnormalities since then. In the past couple of years, I have ha...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to first check the stool, maintain a consistent diet, and adjust medications as needed. If the time is appropriate, an early colonoscopy can also be considered.[Read More] Is It Gastroenteritis or Colon Cancer? Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Morning Diarrhea: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Question Inquiry Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you some questions regarding a condition I've been experiencing for some time. In the mornings, when I go to the bathroom, I often have diarrhea; however, the initial stool is normal, and it is only towards the end that I e...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Common general symptoms that are not diseases can be observed or may be reduced by medications that decrease intestinal motility. Additionally, avoid overly spicy foods and do not eat too quickly.[Read More] Understanding Morning Diarrhea: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Long-Term Use of Gastrointestinal Medications in Teens: What Parents Should Know
Medication consultation Hello, Dr. Hu. I have a child who is currently in the ninth grade. Due to the pressure of the upcoming May exams, she has been experiencing symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain every morning. We took her to see a gastroenterologist, who prescri...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, if your symptoms do not improve with medication treatment, or if you have concerns about taking the medication, it is advisable to return for a follow-up consultation with your physician. Thank you.[Read More] Long-Term Use of Gastrointestinal Medications in Teens: What Parents Should Know
Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Accuracy of H. Pylori Testing After Medication
Duodenal ulcer issues? I previously had some stomach issues and took medication prescribed by a clinic for a while, which helped alleviate the symptoms. The medications included those for treating peptic ulcers, gastric ulcers, and duodenal ulcers, such as Esomeprazole 20 mg, Pan...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Testing should still be primarily prepared, and other methods (stool test/blood test/breath test) should only be used if necessary.[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Accuracy of H. Pylori Testing After Medication
Understanding Persistent Pain After Suspected Muscle Strain in the Abdomen
Suspected muscle strain in the lower right abdomen, with pain radiating to multiple areas? Initially, I experienced a small pain in the lower right abdomen (approximately 5-6 cm above the pubic area on the right side) during the Spring Festival. However, after the festival, the p...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Muscle strains can sometimes lead to difficulty in movement. Discomfort may occur in the early morning and evening, with gastric motility triggering soreness in nearby areas. The pain from a muscle strain can take some time to alleviate, and there are many potential causes of abd...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Pain After Suspected Muscle Strain in the Abdomen
Morning Bloating and Gas: Solutions for IBS Sufferers
Waking up with bloating and flatulence? Hello, doctor. I have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and every morning when I wake up and still lie in bed, I start to experience bloating accompanied by flatulence. In more severe cases, I have to rush to the bathroom, which has caused si...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Seek medical attention and prepare medication, using it to control symptoms if necessary.[Read More] Morning Bloating and Gas: Solutions for IBS Sufferers
Long-Term Use of PPI Medications: Are There Risks for Stomach Cancer?
Regarding PPI medications for the stomach? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and my doctor prescribed a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). I have read articles stating that PPI medications may increase the risk of gastric cancer. ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The treatment period for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) ranges from 4 months to 1 year, which is not considered long-term. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Long-Term Use of PPI Medications: Are There Risks for Stomach Cancer?