How Often Should You Monitor Liver Health and Uric Acid Levels?
How often should follow-up examinations be conducted? First of all, thank you, Dr. Tsai, for your previous response. Last month's blood test results showed: 1. SGPT 71 (reference range 4-44) 2. Triglycerides 132 (50-130) 3. Uric acid 11.6 (3.6-8). These three values are elev...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Last year, liver function tests were normal, but this year the liver index is 71. It is unclear how it fluctuated throughout the year; it may have been higher at some point and has recently decreased, or it could currently be at its peak. It is recommended to monitor ...[Read More] How Often Should You Monitor Liver Health and Uric Acid Levels?
Understanding Left Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Discomfort in the left abdomen? Hello Doctor: Two months ago, I visited a gastroenterologist due to a pressure sensation in my lower left abdomen, which is not accompanied by significant pain. I underwent X-rays and stool tests, and the physician indicated that there was nothing ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If we analyze the organs located in the left lower abdomen of a male, the organs present include the colon, part of the small intestine, and the urinary tract. Possible issues include: colitis, fecal impaction, urinary stones, cystitis, left inguinal hernia, referred pain ...[Read More] Understanding Left Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Can Abdominal Pain Affect the Lower Back?
Gastrointestinal issues 1. Long-term pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen, including cramping, sharp pain, and a feeling of pressure in the lower back, raises the question: Can abdominal pain cause discomfort in the lower back? 2. Additionally, I have consulted a gynecologis...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If there are disorders of the retroperitoneal organs, it is possible to experience what is known as "referred pain," such as from organs close to the retroperitoneum, including the pancreas, urinary tract stones, and duodenal ulcers, among others. However, most c...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Can Abdominal Pain Affect the Lower Back?
Understanding Chronic Abdominal Pain: When to Consider a Colonoscopy
Long-term distress? Doctor, I have been suffering from long-term pain in my upper and lower abdomen. The doctor prescribed medication for irritable bowel syndrome, but I still experience intermittent abdominal pain. I have undergone stool tests, gastroscopy, colon X-rays, and liv...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello, are you referring to a barium enema when you mention a colon X-ray? If it is indeed a barium enema, then under the condition of complete bowel preparation, polyps, ulcers, or tumors of a certain size in the colon can be detected. However, each examination has its own accur...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Abdominal Pain: When to Consider a Colonoscopy
Understanding Changes in Stool Thickness: What You Need to Know
How to distinguish the thickness of stool? Hello Doctor, In the past few weeks, I have noticed that my stools have become very thin, about the size of a 5-cent to 10-cent coin. I had a colonoscopy last October due to this issue, and everything was fine. My diet has been normal ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The shape of stool is influenced by various factors, including total daily fluid intake, the fiber content and moisture levels of fruits and vegetables, as well as the types of food you consume and the time it spends in the intestines, among others. It is difficult to list...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool Thickness: What You Need to Know
Chronic Abdominal Discomfort: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Pain
Chronic gastrointestinal discomfort? Dear Dr. Chen, My brother experienced abdominal pain for about six months two to three years ago and was diagnosed with intestinal adhesions. At that time, the doctor recommended surgery once the adhesions improved, but my brother mistakenly ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Patients who have previously undergone abdominal surgery may experience intestinal adhesions. It is recommended to use medications that promote peristalsis, relieve bloating, and appropriate amounts of stool softeners, which should help alleviate symptoms. If examinations ...[Read More] Chronic Abdominal Discomfort: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Pain
Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Digestive Health
Persistent mucus in stool? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing mucus in my stool consistently. Is this simply due to indigestion, or could there be other factors? Recently, I have been having difficulty with bowel movements and rarely feel the urge to go, often forcing myself...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Under normal circumstances, the shedding of intestinal mucosa, inflammation, infection, and gastrointestinal functional abnormalities can all lead to the presence of mucus. In diagnosis, it may also be necessary to consider your other relevant medical history, symptoms, di...[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and Concerns for Digestive Health
Is Your Stomach Trouble After Dining Food Poisoning?
Food poisoning Experiencing diarrhea one hour after eating at a restaurant could be a sign of food poisoning, but it is not definitive. Food poisoning typically occurs within hours to days after consuming contaminated food or beverages. Other factors, such as food intolerance or ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Chen, it seems too fast and not quite right. Please check if others in your group are experiencing the same for reference. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Is Your Stomach Trouble After Dining Food Poisoning?
Struggling with Stomach Medications: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Taking stomach medication is not effective? Taking stomach medication for the same condition is not effective.
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
According to statistics from the National Health Insurance Administration, over 2 billion antacids (commonly referred to as stomach medications) are claimed in Taiwan each year, with an average of more than 100 antacid tablets used per person annually. In the OTC (over-the-counte...[Read More] Struggling with Stomach Medications: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Chronic Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers for Persistent Right Upper Discomfort
Please, doctor, help me with my long-standing abdominal pain? Symptoms: I feel a dull pain in the upper right abdomen all day, whether sitting or standing, as if there is a heavy object pressing down. I can't tolerate it after sitting or standing for too long, and it doesn&#...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: 1. For asymptomatic pancreatic pseudocysts, it is recommended to have regular follow-ups to observe if they will resolve on their own. 2. Regarding the right upper quadrant pain, with only elevated ACP and VGT, and multiple tests yielding no definitive results, ERCP could ...[Read More] Chronic Abdominal Pain: Seeking Answers for Persistent Right Upper Discomfort
Understanding Foul-Smelling Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Foul-smelling stool? Hello doctor, about two years ago I had gastroenteritis, and after taking medication, I recovered. However, since then, my stools have become very foul-smelling, and they feel like they contain a lot of air. Upon observation, I can even see bubbles rising fro...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms, it appears to be a disruption in gastrointestinal digestion and absorption following a bout of gastroenteritis. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist to determine if further examinations are necessary. In terms of diet, it is advisable to...[Read More] Understanding Foul-Smelling Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Struggling with Incomplete Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Inability to fully evacuate bowel movements? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing persistent issues with incomplete bowel movements. I have a bowel movement in the morning, and then about an hour later, I feel the urge again, followed by another bowel movement around noon. Some...
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
Your symptoms may be more indicative of issues related to the anus or rectum. It is recommended that you increase your fiber intake to enhance stool bulk and improve stool formation, which may help with more effective bowel movements. If necessary, please consult a gastroenterolo...[Read More] Struggling with Incomplete Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Duodenal Ulcer Treatment and Managing Symptoms
Treatment of Duodenal Ulcer Hello Doctor, I recently underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy due to discomfort in my stomach, and the doctor mentioned that I have a mild duodenal ulcer without Helicobacter pylori infection. I was prescribed Pantoprazole for two months. In t...
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
Nexium (esomeprazole) belongs to the class of proton pump inhibitors and is currently the strongest antacid approved by the Taiwan Ministry of Health and Welfare. Commonly used proton pump inhibitors include Pantoloc (pantoprazole), Nexium (esomeprazole), Pariet (rabeprazole), an...[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcer Treatment and Managing Symptoms
Understanding e-Antigen Negative Hepatitis B: Risks and Treatment Options
Hepatitis B patients who are e-antigen negative? Hello Doctor: In 2006, I tested negative for HBeAg and positive for HBeAb, and I originally thought I was a low viral load hepatitis B patient. However, my recent tests showed GPT=77, GOT=31, AFP=4.5, and HBV DNA=250,000 IU/mL. The...
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
Hello, you are a very diligent patient. I will first address your questions in order, and then provide the current health insurance regulations and personal recommendations regarding your situation. First, the e antigen in wild-type chronic hepatitis B virus is indeed an indica...[Read More] Understanding e-Antigen Negative Hepatitis B: Risks and Treatment Options
Understanding IBS: Why Does It Hurt Almost Every Day?
Why am I in pain almost every day? Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can indeed cause intermittent abdominal pain. Some individuals may experience daily pain, while others may have pain that occurs every other day or only a few times a week. This variability in symptoms is common wi...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: The pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is often related to diet, emotions, and stress. There is no specific pattern regarding whether the pain occurs daily, every other day, or occasionally. It is recommended to reduce oil and dairy intake, relax, manage e...[Read More] Understanding IBS: Why Does It Hurt Almost Every Day?
Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: Insights on IBS and Other Causes
Changes in bowel habits Hello, doctor. Two months ago, after a sudden urge to use the restroom, I noticed bright red blood coming from my anus a few hours later, similar to menstrual flow. Since then, I have not seen any blood (it was painless). I have previously tended to be con...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has many forms; some are primarily characterized by constipation, others by diarrhea, and some alternate between constipation and diarrhea. Severe diarrhea-predominant IBS may result in frequent bowel movements, sometimes worsening after...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Bowel Habits: Insights on IBS and Other Causes
Understanding Constipation and Its Link to Colon Health
Regarding issues of fecal retention and constipation? Hello, I would like to ask about my situation. During my junior high and high school years, I mainly ate fast food, rarely consumed vegetables, and exercised little, which led to long-term constipation. I usually have a bowel ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Regarding your question, here are the responses: (1) Chronic constipation and excessive straining during bowel movements can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal prolapse, and intestinal obstruction. (2) The causes of constipation and irregular bowel movements includ...[Read More] Understanding Constipation and Its Link to Colon Health
Understanding Frequent Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Frequent diarrhea? Hello Doctor: Recently, I've been experiencing a lot of work-related stress and have been going to the bathroom 2-3 times in the morning (diarrhea). However, once I surpass the duration of diarrhea without going to the bathroom, the symptoms tend to lessen...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mr. SUSU: After reviewing your case, your symptoms are more indicative of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This condition is commonly seen in younger individuals and is often related to stress. Some people experience the constipation subtype, others the diarrhea subtype, and ...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Persistent Hiccups: Understanding Causes and Seeking Solutions
Persistent hiccups? Hello, I am a high school sophomore. I have noticed that ever since I had a fever due to an illness, I have been experiencing persistent burping. It's not uncontrollable burping; rather, it feels like my stomach is filled with air, and I have to intention...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Some people may experience gastrointestinal motility issues after catching a cold, leading to symptoms such as belching, which seems to be bothering you. It is recommended to maintain good habits, eat a balanced diet, and have regular meal times. Avoid eating too quickly, ...[Read More] Persistent Hiccups: Understanding Causes and Seeking Solutions
Can Hepatitis B Carriers Naturally Recover? Insights for Expecting Mothers
Can a hepatitis B carrier heal on their own? I am a 37-year-old pregnant woman who previously did not have a regular check-up routine. During my university entrance examination at the age of 18, I was clearly tested positive for being a carrier of hepatitis B. However, in the rec...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. It is possible to check for HBsAb, the hepatitis B antibody. A small number of hepatitis B infected individuals and carriers may produce hepatitis B antibodies indicating improvement, while some may have undetectable levels of HBsAg due to very low quantities. 2. Cu...[Read More] Can Hepatitis B Carriers Naturally Recover? Insights for Expecting Mothers