Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Solutions
Amylase levels are often elevated? Hello Dr. Tsai: I have been experiencing elevated amylase levels in my health check reports for the past 10 years. This year, my amylase level is 215, and my lipase level is abnormally low at 20.6. An abdominal ultrasound showed no abnormalities...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Amylase can be secreted by the salivary glands and the pancreas. Additionally, it may also be secreted by the lungs, sweat glands, mammary glands, gastrointestinal tract, and the urogenital system. In certain situations, it may not be easy to identify the true cause. Chang...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Elevated Lipase Levels: Causes and Next Steps for Diagnosis
Elevated lipase levels? I do not have a habit of drinking alcohol or smoking. I have diabetes and do not take medication, with my glycated hemoglobin consistently around 6.6. About six months ago, I experienced severe abdominal pain and vomiting, and a doctor diagnosed me with pa...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Elevated lipase levels can be associated with pancreatitis, abdominal pain caused by gallstones, visceral perforation, intestinal obstruction, pancreatic pseudocyst, and peritonitis. Additionally, autoimmune pancreatitis is also a possibility. You may want to discuss this ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Lipase Levels: Causes and Next Steps for Diagnosis
Managing Pancreatitis Caused by Gallstones and Bile Duct Stones
Gallstones and bile duct stones can lead to pancreatitis? Hello doctor, I would like to inquire about the issue of pancreatitis caused by gallstones and bile duct stones. My family member went to the hospital for a check-up on March 23 due to discomfort, and the doctor diagnosed ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss. It is necessary to assess each case individually, so please communicate more with your attending physician. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Managing Pancreatitis Caused by Gallstones and Bile Duct Stones
Why Does My Stomach Still Hurt After Taking Medication?
The stomach still hurts after taking the medication? Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I went to see a doctor for bloating. The doctor prescribed me medication for a week. After taking it for two days, I experienced diarrhea the first time, and the next day my stomach started hurting...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Discomfort in the stomach area can stem from various issues, not just related to the stomach itself. Problems may also arise from the large intestine, liver, gallbladder, or pancreas, all of which can cause discomfort in this region. If you are not seeing a gastroenterolog...[Read More] Why Does My Stomach Still Hurt After Taking Medication?
Post-Meal Bloating and Unusual Bowel Movements: Seeking Gastroenterology Advice
Postprandial bloating and abnormal bowel movements? Hello, recently I've been experiencing bloating even before I'm full after meals. I have daily bowel movements, but the stool volume is small and appears as dark brown granules. Sometimes I need to strain to pass stool...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
After abdominal surgery, adhesions are often a common issue, leading to symptoms such as bloating, poor peristalsis, and constipation. This is a problem that needs to be prioritized for exclusion.[Read More] Post-Meal Bloating and Unusual Bowel Movements: Seeking Gastroenterology Advice
Understanding Liver Ultrasound Results: Key Insights for Abdominal Pain
Liver ultrasound Height: 182 cm Weight: 67 kg Non-smoker, non-drinker. Below is the ultrasound report; I would like to know what the issues are. AST: 34 ALT: 40 Chief Complaint: Abdominal pain and abnormal liver function tests. SONAR FINDINGS: - Liver: Fine echotexture in pare...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Liver function tests should be normal. 2. The report indicates suspected renal parenchymal disease, increased intestinal gas, and mild splenomegaly. You may consult a nephrologist to determine the cause. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Liver Ultrasound Results: Key Insights for Abdominal Pain
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 Abdominal and Back Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist
Stomach pain with back pain? Hello Doctor, I had a barbecue lunch the day before yesterday, and after taking a shower that evening, I suddenly felt abdominal pain along with discomfort in my lower back. Later that night, I had two episodes of diarrhea, but the pain in my stomac...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back may be indicative of pancreatitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or duodenal ulcers. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist to determine the cause. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Sh...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal and Back Pain: When to See a Gastroenterologist
Discrepancies Between Imaging Reports and Physician Assessments in Gastroenterology
There is a discrepancy between the imaging examination results and the radiology report compared to the physician's report? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing prolonged stomach pain, pain in my left rib area, and persistent abdominal pain. Whenever the pain in my left r...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, please discuss with your physician but do not become overly anxious. Trust the physician's judgment and continue to follow up. Maintain a regular routine and you may try local heat application. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Discrepancies Between Imaging Reports and Physician Assessments in Gastroenterology
Understanding Abnormal AST Levels and Managing Abdominal Ultrasound Findings
Health Check Consultation Doctor, I would like to ask about my health check results. My AST (GOT) level is 38, while the reference range is 15-37. Should I be concerned about this abnormality? Additionally, the abdominal ultrasound indicated that the tail of my pancreas is obstru...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss. 1. As long as there is no hepatitis B or C, there should be no problem; just continue with monitoring. 2. Gastrointestinal issues can obstruct the angle of the pancreatic tail, which is often difficult to resolve, but there are also fewer chances of lesions. Changhua...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal AST Levels and Managing Abdominal Ultrasound Findings
Should You Remove a Pancreatic Tumor? Understanding MRI Reports
Is surgical resection necessary for this tumor based on the pancreatic MRI report? Recently, a family member experienced severe abdominal pain (radiating to the back) and underwent an MRI examination, which revealed a tumor in the pancreas. The hospital that performed the MRI sug...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
It is advisable not to rely solely on the report's content; it is important to consult with a clinical physician for their opinion.[Read More] Should You Remove a Pancreatic Tumor? Understanding MRI Reports
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Insights into Gastrointestinal Issues
Abdominal issues? About two months ago, I started experiencing nausea, abdominal pain, bloating, excessive stomach acid, and an inability to burp, so I went to the hospital for a check-up. After undergoing an endoscopy, the doctor said there were no issues with my stomach, but I ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Abdominal ultrasound: liver, gallbladder, spleen, and kidneys; the pancreas can only be visualized when there is minimal intestinal gas. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Insights into Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Key Insights for Liver and Gallbladder Health
Abdominal ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the organs and structures within the abdomen. It is commonly used to evaluate conditions affecting Hello Dr. Tsai, I previously submitted a question but did not recei...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Fatty liver: It is recommended to monitor the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the serum, maintain a light diet, exercise, and pay attention to weight. 2. Blisters: Generally, there are no significant concerns unless the blisters are large and compressing the ...[Read More] Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Key Insights for Liver and Gallbladder Health
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing severe bloating and pain in the upper left abdomen. I visited a gastroenterologist who performed an ultrasound on my pancreas and kidneys, both of which were normal. The doctor mentioned that there is air pr...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Please pay attention to your diet and bowel movements, as they may be related to your symptoms. If medication does not improve your condition, it is necessary to undergo an endoscopy to check for gastrointestinal issues. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Understanding Abdominal Pain Around the Belly Button: Causes and Tests
Pain around the abdomen and waist? Hello doctor, recently I've been experiencing a dull pain around my navel that feels hard when pressed, and it hurts. The pain seems to move around; for instance, pressing one area might hurt, but after a while, that area feels fine, and pr...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The area around the navel may be related to the gastrointestinal tract, with a higher likelihood involving the pancreas. You should consult a gastroenterologist, and the specific tests to be performed should be determined by the clinical physician. Changhua Hospital cares ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain Around the Belly Button: Causes and Tests
Understanding Liver Issues: Insights from Ultrasound Reports and Symptoms
Liver issues? Hello Dr. Tsai! I would like your help reviewing my abdominal ultrasound reports from two different hospitals, thank you. **First Report:** - Spleen Index: 7.18 × 3.75 cm - CBD: 0.63 cm - Portal vein: 1.05 cm - Normal liver size, bright and heterogeneous parenchyma...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. According to the report you provided, the liver appears to be only fibrotic, with no signs of cirrhosis. Additionally, your platelet count is 241,000; individuals with cirrhosis typically have platelet counts below the normal range (169,000). 2. Chronic anemia can i...[Read More] Understanding Liver Issues: Insights from Ultrasound Reports and Symptoms
Understanding Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels in Chronic Hepatitis B Carriers
A carrier of hepatitis B would like to inquire about the issue of elevated total bilirubin (TBIL 2.1 mg/dL)? Hello Dr. Chen, I am 40 years old and a carrier of Hepatitis B. I would like to inquire about the issue of elevated total bilirubin (TBIL 2.1 mg/dL). I have been regularl...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. It is likely that your elevated bilirubin levels are due to your individual bilirubin metabolism, which poses no harm to your health. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels in Chronic Hepatitis B Carriers
Addressing Anxiety: Concerns About Abdominal Ultrasound and Recording
Hello doctor, I have two questions? Hello, doctor. My boyfriend is experiencing severe anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. He is currently undergoing treatment in a psychosomatic clinic. Recently, he has had two concerns related to his liver, gallbladder, and gastrointesti...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Recording on a mobile phone will not affect the ultrasound results. Fasting for more than 6 hours, with only a small amount of water consumed, will not impact the interpretation of the ultrasound.[Read More] Addressing Anxiety: Concerns About Abdominal Ultrasound and Recording
Does Drinking Water Before an Abdominal Ultrasound Affect Results?
Drinking water before an ultrasound examination? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing dull pain in my upper right abdomen, so I visited a gastroenterology clinic. The doctor wanted to perform an abdominal ultrasound and asked if I was fasting and had not consumed any water. I ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. Drinking water occasionally may affect the penetration of ultrasound; however, if the physician has not specifically mentioned the need for a re-examination, it should be clear enough. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Does Drinking Water Before an Abdominal Ultrasound Affect Results?
Understanding Liver Nodules: Concerns and Next Steps for Patients
Questions about liver nodules? I recently had a health check-up and found the following results: 1. A 1.3 cm liver cyst in segment 8. 2. A hyperechoic nodule in the liver measuring 1.1 x 1.3 cm in segments 7 and 8. 3. Hypoechoic nodules in the liver measuring 2.8 x 2.1 cm in segm...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, please bring the copied images to a medium or large hospital's gastroenterology department for further examination and confirmation. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Liver Nodules: Concerns and Next Steps for Patients