Does a Shadow on the Pancreas Always Indicate Cancer?
Does the presence of a shadow on the pancreas always indicate cancer? Hello: Recently, an ultrasound revealed a 2.8 cm shadow on my pancreas. The doctor didn't say much, only that I need to get a CT scan. That afternoon, I went to another hospital for another ultrasound, and...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to wait for the CT scan report and not to seek medical attention elsewhere. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Does a Shadow on the Pancreas Always Indicate Cancer?
Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain and Its Causes
Right upper quadrant pain radiating to the back? Hello, I have had my gallbladder removed. Last year, I experienced mild pain in my lower right rib, and after an ultrasound, the doctor found stones in the bile duct, which led to an ERCP that caused pancreatitis. Recently, the pai...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
1. If there is enlargement of the pancreatic tail, it should cause pain in the left upper abdomen. 2. There is a possibility of recurrence of bile duct stones, but blood tests are normal, which cannot explain the situation. 3. A PET scan may not be very helpful. 4. If ERCP ...[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Pain and Its Causes
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Gastrointestinal discomfort? Pain in the lower middle part of the chest that worsens after eating and can be severe enough to hinder walking, along with deep breathing not providing relief, could indicate several potential issues. Occasional pain or persistent pain throughout the...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Based on the description, if there are concerns about stomach issues, it is also important to consider whether there are any problems with the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. It is recommended to visit a hospital for further examination.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Post-Surgery Complications in Children with Biliary Cysts: Insights and Concerns
Postoperative issues in children with choledochal cysts? Hello Dr. Chen, The child underwent laparoscopic total cyst excision of the bile duct, biliary-enteric anastomosis, and liver biopsy due to a choledochal cyst. The underlying cause was identified through abnormal levels of...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
The risk of developing pancreatitis after the aforementioned surgery is inherently present, primarily depending on the severity assessment. The level of the index is not an indicator of severity. Treatment is mainly supportive.[Read More] Post-Surgery Complications in Children with Biliary Cysts: Insights and Concerns
Do Gallstones Affect Kidney Health? Understanding Your Symptoms
Do gallstones affect the kidneys? Hello Doctor: I previously had hepatitis C, and my most recent examination revealed gallstones! I also have two cysts on my kidneys! Recently, I have been feeling constantly tired, and my colorectal cancer marker levels have increased from 12 to ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
1. Gallstones are not related to the kidneys; if gallstones dislodge, they move to the intestines, while if kidney stones dislodge, they move to the urinary tract. 2. An elevation in CEA levels should first rule out the influence of smoking. The organs to be investigated, in addi...[Read More] Do Gallstones Affect Kidney Health? Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Enlarged Bile Duct and Pancreatic Head: Symptoms and Concerns
Common bile duct and enlargement of the pancreatic head? Dear Doctor, My father started experiencing some symptoms at the beginning of last year: 1) fever and weakness that would resolve the next day, returning intermittently; 2) vomiting, and around May of last year, he develop...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
There are many causes of obstructive jaundice, including benign conditions such as bile duct stones, and malignant conditions primarily involving tumors (such as cholangiocarcinoma, pancreatic head cancer, duodenal cancer, and duodenal papilla cancer). Therefore, it is essential ...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Bile Duct and Pancreatic Head: Symptoms and Concerns
Intermittent Sharp Pain Above the Navel: Causes and Concerns
Experiencing intermittent sharp pain above the navel? Hello doctor, for the past three days, I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pain about three fingerbreadths above my navel. The pain lasts for about 1 to 3 seconds and then subsides, but it reoccurs after some time thro...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Pain located about three fingers above the navel may involve organs such as the stomach, intestines, pancreas, and left lobe of the liver. Common causes include gastroenteritis and peptic ulcers. If accompanied by dizziness and fatigue, it may be necessary to check for anemia. It...[Read More] Intermittent Sharp Pain Above the Navel: Causes and Concerns
Understanding the Risks of Cancer Related to Jaundice Symptoms
Is the risk of cancer high? Hello, doctor. I researched some symptoms of jaundice in adults. In this stage, hepatitis is the primary cause of jaundice, especially chronic hepatitis B and C. Some patients may progress to cirrhosis or develop liver cancer, which can severely affect...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to monitor the changes in the indices. If the jaundice is caused by diseases of the pancreas, bile ducts, or liver, the indices will gradually increase. At that time, a physician will evaluate what kind of examinations should be arranged. You should also ...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Cancer Related to Jaundice Symptoms
Understanding Nightly Stomach Cramps: When to Seek Further Medical Help
About nightly stomach cramps? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing recurrent stomach cramps for three weeks, and for the past four days, my stomach has been cramping and painful every night after 10 PM. However, I feel fine when I wake up the next day. I went to Mackay Memorial...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
An endoscopy can examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for any painful changes, such as inflammation or ulcers. It is recommended to avoid irritating foods and to pay attention to your diet to prevent the onset of gastritis. Additionally, further examinations such as abdom...[Read More] Understanding Nightly Stomach Cramps: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Understanding Embolization Treatment for Pancreatic Hemangiomas
Hemangiomas of the pancreas should be treated with embolization? Hello doctor, I would like to ask you about a recent health check-up for a family member that revealed a vascular tumor near the pancreas. The hospital has recommended embolization treatment. Are there any potential...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Both invasive examinations and treatments carry potential complications. If there is a vascular tumor in the pancreas, it is not necessarily required to treat it; further discussion with a physician is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Embolization Treatment for Pancreatic Hemangiomas
Left Side Abdominal Pain: Is It Kidney Stones or Gallstones?
Pain and discomfort under the left rib cage can be associated with either kidney stones or gallstones. However, kidney stones typically cause pain in the flank area, which is located on the side of the body between the ribs and the hip. In contrast, gallstones usually lead to pai...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
The gallbladder is located in the right upper abdomen, so your issue is likely not related to the gallbladder. The most common cause of pain in the left upper abdomen is the stomach, so an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is recommended. Other less common causes may include the p...[Read More] Left Side Abdominal Pain: Is It Kidney Stones or Gallstones?
Can Stomach Ulcers Cause Back Pain? Understanding Your Symptoms
Can a stomach ulcer cause back pain? I went to a large hospital and was diagnosed with a gastric ulcer. I would like to ask about a urinary tract infection I had on Saturday. I went to the hospital to get medication, and the doctor prescribed Cefuroxime and Diclofenac. After taki...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Back pain can have many causes, depending on the location of the pain and associated symptoms, such as issues related to the spine, pancreas, or kidneys. It is recommended to consult a specialized physician at a hospital for diagnosis and treatment.[Read More] Can Stomach Ulcers Cause Back Pain? Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Stomach and Pancreatic Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer? Dear Doctor, 1. Recently, I have experienced a loss of appetite and had black stools for two days. I went to the hospital for an endoscopy, and the doctor said I have an ulcer. I was prescribed medication. During the endoscopy, the doctor also ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, your condition is ulcer bleeding, and treatment will require a certain duration. If symptoms do not improve after treatment, an abdominal ultrasound can be arranged to assess the condition of the pancreas and liver. Staying up late does not cause liver cancer. Sincerely, D...[Read More] Understanding Stomach and Pancreatic Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Discomfort in the upper left abdomen? Doctor: Hello, I feel a tightness in my upper left abdomen when I sit down, and I feel something inside when I jog. Do I need to undergo any further examinations? Previously, I was diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease during an endo...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The organs located in the upper left abdomen primarily include the stomach, as well as the junction of the transverse and descending colon, the body and tail of the pancreas, and the left kidney. Common causes of pain in this area are inflammation or ulcers of the stomach,...[Read More] Understanding Left Upper Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Solutions
Abdominal distension? Hello Doctor, I was recently diagnosed with endocrine dysfunction. My limbs and body are quite thin, but my abdomen sometimes becomes swollen and protrudes, resembling the early stages of pregnancy. However, after I wake up from sleep, my abdomen goes back t...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. Abdominal distension or a protruding abdomen may require visual examination for clarity. 2. Possible causes of abdominal distension include gastrointestinal dysfunction or issues with intra-abdominal organs (such as the gastrointestinal tract, liver, gallbladder, pan...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Elevated Amylase and Bilirubin Levels: What You Need to Know
Abnormal biochemical blood test results? Recent blood tests revealed several elevated values, specifically Amylase at 103 U/L (normal range 0-100) and Total Bilirubin at 1.8 mg/dL (normal range 0-1.5). What could be the issue?
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, if this is just a routine check-up, slightly elevated amylase does not indicate clinical significance; slightly elevated total bilirubin, if there are no hemolysis issues and no liver or biliary problems, may suggest a congenital metabolic disorder of bile. It is recommend...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Amylase and Bilirubin Levels: What You Need to Know
Understanding Pancreatic Variations: Concerns and Next Steps After Diagnosis
Please provide more details regarding the pancreatic issues you are experiencing? Hello, Dr. Lin. A month ago, when I returned to Taiwan and underwent a comprehensive health check at Asia University Hospital, an abdominal ultrasound revealed a hyperechoic nodule approximately 1 c...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Congenital variations of the pancreas are not common and are difficult to examine. Some are discovered only after an unexplained episode of pancreatitis. The most sensitive examination for pancreatic tumors is endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), which can detect tumors smaller th...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Variations: Concerns and Next Steps After Diagnosis
Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Should You Be Concerned?
CA19-9 is elevated!! Hello Doctor: I previously consulted you about my elevated CA 19-9 levels, which have been high since 2009. After a recheck at the end of November last year, my CA 19-9 level was 117. Two and a half months later, in early February this year, it was 109. I als...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, if there is indeed a tumor, the markers would already be in the hundreds, or even thousands, and there would be other symptoms present as well. If an MRI has already been performed, the next step would be to continue monitoring. Wishing you peace and go...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Should You Be Concerned?
Post-Gallbladder Surgery: Essential Dietary and Lifestyle Tips for Recovery
Dietary Guidelines After Gallbladder Removal Surgery Hello, doctor. I was diagnosed with gallstones through an ultrasound at the beginning of last year. However, I maintain a very light diet, consuming greasy foods only about once a month because I dislike oily foods. Due to a la...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, (1) It is recommended that your regular diet should be low in fats and proteins, and the portion sizes should be moderate to avoid overeating, which can reduce the burden on digestion. (2) Essentially, the gallbladder functions like a "reservoir," storing bile pr...[Read More] Post-Gallbladder Surgery: Essential Dietary and Lifestyle Tips for Recovery
Understanding Pancreatic Issues: Risks and Options for Surgery
Hello, doctor. I would like to ask some questions about the pancreas? Two years ago, I experienced pain in my right upper abdomen and underwent numerous tests at a hospital in China. Eventually, I had a small bowel endoscopy, which led to a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis confirm...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Li Dawei: Several senior physicians have suggested that you should consider (after reviewing the actual data) consulting a surgeon regarding surgical-related issues (you may want to inquire at two medical centers), as this involves surgical equipment and individual skil...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Issues: Risks and Options for Surgery