Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Concerns
Amylase levels cannot be reduced? Hello, Doctor. On March 5th, I accidentally consumed spoiled glutinous rice balls (which had been refrigerated for about a week). That evening, around 10 PM, I had fast food fried chicken for dinner and then went to bed. The next day, March 6th, ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The pancreas shows only mild inflammation; the numbers are for reference and should not be a cause for concern. A light diet is recommended, and follow-up appointments should be scheduled as planned.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Your Symptoms: IBS, GERD, or Pancreatic Cancer Concerns?
I would like to ask the doctor if I have irritable bowel syndrome combined with gastroesophageal reflux disease or pancreatic cancer? Hello, Doctor: I am regularly taking psychiatric medications (such as Prozac) primarily due to autonomic nervous system dysregulation with overact...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Mr. Chang: For your left and right upper back pain, it is recommended to consult other specialties first. There are many potential causes for bloating, so it is advisable to ask your previous treating physician for guidance based on prior examinations and your condition. Di...[Read More] Understanding Your Symptoms: IBS, GERD, or Pancreatic Cancer Concerns?
Understanding Grayish-White Stool: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Pale or clay-colored stool? Dear Deputy Director, I would like to ask about an issue I experienced last year when I consulted a colorectal specialist due to constipation. The doctor prescribed me a laxative (Clear Laxative Sugar-Coated Tablets), and after taking it, I experienced...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is unlikely to be caused by pancreatic or biliary cancer; further observation is recommended. Increase the intake of fruits and vegetables, and avoid prolonged sitting after meals.[Read More] Understanding Grayish-White Stool: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Understanding Digestive Issues: Back Pain, Bloating, and Anxiety Concerns
Back pain, occasional nausea, and bloating issues? Hello Doctor: Last May, I sought medical attention for gastrointestinal bloating after consuming too much milk. Due to a family history of diabetes (grandfather, mother, and father), the doctor arranged for a colonoscopy, an endo...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It should not be related to pancreatic cancer; managing with medication and dietary control is sufficient, so there is no need to worry.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Back Pain, Bloating, and Anxiety Concerns
Understanding Grayish-White Stool: Potential Liver and Digestive Issues
Stool that is pale gray or white in color? Hello Doctor: Since last year, my bowel movements have become unusual. Previously, there was only a small corner of my stool that appeared gray, and I didn't pay much attention to it. However, today I noticed that half of my stool i...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further observation is recommended. If symptoms persist or if there is weight loss, medical evaluation should be sought.[Read More] Understanding Grayish-White Stool: Potential Liver and Digestive Issues
Understanding Pancreatic Cancer Risk: Genetic Factors and Screening Guidelines
Pancreatic cancer consultation Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you about my father, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at the age of 39. At that time, he had very poor lifestyle habits and engaged in almost all bad habits (staying up late, excessive drinking, smoking, et...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The hereditary rate of pancreatic cancer is not high (unless there are specific genes, which are generally not tested in Taiwan). If concerned, it is recommended to undergo an annual ultrasound examination (at one's own expense).[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Cancer Risk: Genetic Factors and Screening Guidelines
Understanding Brown and Yellow Cloudy Urine: Causes and Concerns
Cloudy tea-colored urine? Hello Doctor, I have recently noticed brown and yellow urine during urination. When I observe it in the toilet, the brown and yellow urine appears to be mixed together, and I am a bit worried that it might indicate a serious issue, such as pancreatic can...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The chances are slim, so there's no need to worry. Drink plenty of water and continue to monitor the color. You can also check if the whites of the eyes have turned yellow.[Read More] Understanding Brown and Yellow Cloudy Urine: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Pancreatic Cancer: Stool Color Changes Explained
Pancreatic cancer? 1. Is it possible for the stool of a patient with pancreatic cancer to show a combination of yellow-brown and gray-white colors? 2. Can the stool of a patient with pancreatic cancer alternate between gray-white one day and yellow-brown the next day?
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Pancreatic cancer can cause stool to appear partially yellow-brown and partially gray-white. When there is biliary obstruction, the stool may appear gray-white. The color of the stool is related to the degree of bile duct obstruction. Pancreatic tumors, especially those in the he...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Cancer: Stool Color Changes Explained
Early Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer: What to Watch For
Pancreatic cancer? In the early stages of pancreatic cancer, there are typically no symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, the first symptom that usually appears is abdominal pain. The second symptom that may follow is jaundice, which is characterized by yellowing of the skin...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Most pancreatic cancer refers to pancreatic adenocarcinoma, while a small portion consists of neuroendocrine tumors that present differently. Symptoms of pancreatic adenocarcinoma include weakness, weight loss, nausea, upper abdominal pain, dark urine, jaundice, back pain, diarrh...[Read More] Early Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer: What to Watch For
Understanding Pancreatic Cancer: What Do Grayish Stools Indicate?
Pancreatic cancer symptoms? The stool in pancreatic cancer is grayish-white. Is it completely grayish-white, or is it mixed with yellow-brown stool?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It should be entirely grayish-white.[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Cancer: What Do Grayish Stools Indicate?
Understanding Abnormal Liver and Pancreatic Function Test Results
Health check report red text Hello Dr. Lin: During the recent company health check, the ultrasound technician mentioned that my liver appeared somewhat coarse and discovered a liver cyst (0.43 cm). The doctor advised me to undergo additional blood tests for liver function. After ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
The diagnosis of acute pancreatitis involves several steps: First, assess for symptoms such as abdominal pain and postprandial back pain. Second, identify any risk factors such as gallstones, bile duct stones, alcohol consumption, and hyperlipidemia. Third, evaluate biochemical t...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Liver and Pancreatic Function Test Results
Understanding Grayish Stool in Pancreatic Cancer: What You Need to Know
Pancreatic cancer stool? Hello, doctor. In cases of pancreatic cancer, is the stool consistently grayish-white, or does it alternate between yellow-brown and grayish-white stools (for example, yellow-brown one day and grayish-white the next)?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Consider biliary and pancreatic diseases only if there is gray discoloration or weight loss.[Read More] Understanding Grayish Stool in Pancreatic Cancer: What You Need to Know
Understanding Pancreatic Cancer: Early Symptoms and Late-Stage Signs
Pancreatic cancer? 1. What are the early symptoms of pancreatic cancer? 2. Are the stools in pancreatic cancer completely grayish-white or a mix of yellow-brown with grayish-white? Is it normal for the stools to be yellow-brown mixed with grayish-white? 3. What are the sympto...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
In the early stages, there are no symptoms at all, and stool color is not a reliable indicator. In the late stages, there may be a weight loss of several kilograms and jaundice.[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Cancer: Early Symptoms and Late-Stage Signs
Post-Pancreatic Head Resection: Strategies to Combat Muscle Loss and Weight Gain
After pancreatic head resection surgery, there is muscle wasting in the body? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed two years ago with a "benign" liquid tumor in the head of the pancreas. After undergoing surgery for pancreatic cancer to remove the head of the pancreas and a ye...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there are no gastrointestinal symptoms, it is recommended to discuss with a nutritionist or rehabilitation specialist on how to correct sarcopenia. The principle is to increase protein intake and engage in resistance training.[Read More] Post-Pancreatic Head Resection: Strategies to Combat Muscle Loss and Weight Gain
Understanding CA-199 and CA-125 Tumor Markers: Which Specialist to Consult?
CA-199 tumor marker Hello Doctor, my recent health check results show that my CA-199 tumor marker is 75.2 and my CA-125 tumor marker is 60.5. Both values are highlighted in red. I would like to ask you, as I have been regularly (every year or six months) monitoring my gynecologic...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Elevated CA19-9 and CA-125 levels in women warrant further gynecological monitoring. Although the levels are not significantly high, they are abnormal and may be related to gynecological issues such as uterine fibroids or teratomas. Continued follow-up and treatment are recommend...[Read More] Understanding CA-199 and CA-125 Tumor Markers: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding and Managing Symptoms of Gastroparesis and GERD
Gastric ptosis, gastric tightness, and abdominal bloating significantly affect daily life. How can these conditions be improved? Symptoms: The most troubling symptoms are 1. A feeling of gastric ptosis (a sense of heaviness in the abdomen). 2. A sensation of gastric sensitivity, ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The preliminary diagnosis is likely related to reflux and abnormal (slow) peristalsis. A diet of small, frequent meals and medication management is recommended. Additionally, an abdominal ultrasound and Ca 19-9 test can be performed, and a CT or MRI can be done at the patient...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Symptoms of Gastroparesis and GERD
Understanding Digestive Issues: Could Your Symptoms Indicate Pancreatic Problems?
Bowel-related issues and pancreatic problems? Doctor, I would like to ask a question. On January 3rd, due to the cold weather and strong winds that evening, I might have caught a chill, which led to a fever of about 37.8 degrees Celsius. On my way home, I bought some ready-to-eat...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The described process pertains to enteritis, which involves a light diet and seeking medical attention for medication management as necessary, while monitoring for changes. Rapid testing may also be considered.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Could Your Symptoms Indicate Pancreatic Problems?
Weight Loss Concerns: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues and Stress
Weight loss over the past year? Hello, doctor. I am a 32-year-old male, 172 cm tall and weighing 56 kg. Since November 2021, I have been experiencing belching and bloating after meals. I have consulted both Western and Traditional Chinese medicine, and they suggested possible gas...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please discuss with the attending physician about increasing caloric intake and whether to consult or refer to other specialties for assistance in diagnosis and treatment.[Read More] Weight Loss Concerns: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues and Stress
Understanding Right Upper Back Pain During Hiccups: Causes and Concerns
Experiencing back pain during hiccups? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask for your advice. For the past few days, I have experienced occasional pain in my upper right back when drinking water or burping, but sometimes it doesn't hurt at all. Eating does not cause pain, and co...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There should be no direct correlation; further comparison (pause massage) for observation is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Back Pain During Hiccups: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Implications for Gastrointestinal Health
Interpretation of CA 19-9 Values Hello Doctor, I recently received my health check report, which shows a CA 19-9 value of 212 (compared to 180 the previous year). I have a chocolate cyst (for many years) and have been taking Danazol (for three months; the health check was conduct...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
CA 19-9 is a glycoprotein found in the human body, including in epithelial cells of the pancreas, gallbladder, and salivary glands. It is also expressed in the epithelial cells of the cervical lining. An elevated CA 19-9 level does not necessarily indicate the presence of cancer....[Read More] Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Implications for Gastrointestinal Health