Understanding Elevated Lipase Levels: A Guide for Concerned Parents
Amylase and lipase? I would like to ask about my son's situation. He is in his twenties and was diagnosed with acute gastroenteritis in August 2022. During an emergency visit, his lipase level was 82. When we followed up with a gastroenterologist, the doctor mentioned that t...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Causes of elevated lipase levels include acute and chronic pancreatitis, renal failure, cholecystitis, intestinal obstruction or infarction, duodenal ulcers, pancreatic stones, pancreatic tumors, diabetes, hepatitis C infection, HIV infection, hyperlipasemia, inflammatory bowel d...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Lipase Levels: A Guide for Concerned Parents
Understanding Post-Discharge Bloating After Gallstone Treatment
Bloating due to gallstones? My father is 80 years old and was admitted to the emergency room due to abdominal pain, where he was found to have gallstones, bile duct stones, and pancreatitis. The doctor performed an endoscopic procedure to remove the bile duct stones and placed a ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Cholecystopancreatitis can affect digestion, so a bland diet with small, frequent meals is recommended. If necessary, enzyme medications may be added. Please discuss this further with your attending physician.[Read More] Understanding Post-Discharge Bloating After Gallstone Treatment
Understanding Elevated Enzyme Levels: Is It Pancreatitis?
Two indices are elevated? Recently, I have been experiencing lower back pain, but I don't have much discomfort in my upper abdomen. I have been using a fascia ball to help relax and relieve the pain. My blood test results show amylase at 159, lipase at 101, and normal blood ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Typical pancreatitis presents with pain radiating from the chest to the back, making it difficult to stand straight, with relief upon bending forward. A diagnosis can be made if lipase levels are more than three times the normal range. Possible causes of acute pancreatitis includ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Enzyme Levels: Is It Pancreatitis?
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
Managing Pancreatic Cysts: Alternatives to Surgery for Duct Obstruction
Pancreatic pseudocyst leading to acute pancreatitis? 1. My husband recently experienced upper abdominal distension and fever, and he went to the emergency department for evaluation. He was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis and was hospitalized for further examination. An MRI reve...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: A gastroenterologist specializing in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) can assess whether medical treatment is feasible (however, it may be limited to drainage or aspiration, as definitiv...[Read More] Managing Pancreatic Cysts: Alternatives to Surgery for Duct Obstruction
Is There a Link Between Drug Residues and Jaundice?
Is there a relationship between drug residues and jaundice? A few days ago, I was hospitalized for acute pancreatitis for three days, during which I received antibiotics and pain medication. Before being hospitalized, my blood tests showed no signs of jaundice, but after three da...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, the symptoms of acute pancreatitis include jaundice. If you have any concerns, please consult your attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Is There a Link Between Drug Residues and Jaundice?
Left Upper Abdominal Discomfort and Nausea: Could It Be Pancreatitis?
Left upper abdominal discomfort and nausea? Hello Doctor, I have a duodenal ulcer and have undergone two gastroscopies. The doctor at the clinic mentioned that there is still a slight ulcer. Previously, I experienced discomfort primarily in the upper right abdomen, but now, after...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please discuss with the attending gastroenterologist.[Read More] Left Upper Abdominal Discomfort and Nausea: Could It Be Pancreatitis?
Understanding Liver, Gallbladder, and Pancreas Tests: What to Expect
Examinations of the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas system? Hello, because I experience diarrhea after consuming greasy foods, my doctor suggested that I undergo tests for the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas system. What kind of tests are these? Do I need to fast or provide a s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If the gallbladder is not removed, and there is biliary obstruction or recurrent pancreatitis accompanied by jaundice and weight loss, it is often not a biliary or pancreatic issue, but rather a motility disorder.[Read More] Understanding Liver, Gallbladder, and Pancreas Tests: What to Expect
Understanding Pancreatic Tumors: Diagnosis, Treatment Options, and Risks
Pancreatic tumor Dear Dr. Lin, In July, my husband underwent a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan originally intended to monitor his lungs, but it unexpectedly revealed a pancreatic tumor approximately 3.2 cm in size with low density. We promptly returned to the thoracic s...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
A cyst in the body of the pancreas larger than three centimeters may sometimes be difficult to identify on imaging. An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has been arranged, and it does not communicate with the bile duct. There are no nodules within the tumor, leaning towards a serous cy...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Tumors: Diagnosis, Treatment Options, and Risks
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 Lipase and Amylase Levels in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Health
Lipase and Amylase Dear Deputy Director: Last August, my child had acute gastroenteritis, and during the emergency visit, the lipase and amylase levels were elevated. After the follow-up visit, an abdominal ultrasound was performed at the end of August, which showed normal resu...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If a blood test for lipase and amylase levels is to be conducted, it is generally recommended to fast for 8 hours prior to the blood draw to avoid food interference with the results. Additionally, if the child does not exhibit symptoms of pancreatitis, has a normal abdominal ultr...[Read More] Understanding Lipase and Amylase Levels in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Abdominal bloating and pain? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing abdominal bloating and pain for nearly two months. Eating liquid foods causes more pain than solid foods, and lying down increases the pain; I have to sit up and bend my body to alleviate it. My bowel habits have...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The causes of abdominal bloating and pain may include indigestion, gastrointestinal issues, and liver, gallbladder, or pancreatic diseases. It is advisable to pay attention to dietary habits, avoiding rapid eating and greasy foods. Risk factors for pancreatitis include gal...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Severe Back Pain: Understanding Gastrointestinal and Liver Issues
Severe back pain? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing pain in my back and stomach for over a week now. Recently, I have been unable to bend my back due to severe pain, and it hurts even when I'm not moving. I'm not sure what is wrong. I have already seen a gastroente...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello! Sudden or chronic back pain is a warning sign. It's important to pay attention to the exact location of the pain, such as the upper back, lower back, or elsewhere, and to note if there are any accompanying symptoms. It is advisable to visit the appropriate specialty c...[Read More] Severe Back Pain: Understanding Gastrointestinal and Liver Issues
Understanding Mild Pancreatitis: Symptoms and Concerns for Patients
Pancreatitis Hello Doctor: I am 32 years old. I do not smoke or drink alcohol. For the past two months, I have been experiencing occasional hiccups and slight pain in my lower left back, but it goes away after a good night's sleep. Four days ago, I went to the emergency room...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can discuss with the gastroenterologist whether further examinations are necessary.[Read More] Understanding Mild Pancreatitis: Symptoms and Concerns for Patients
Understanding Mild Pancreatitis: Symptoms and Concerns for Patients
Pancreatitis Hello Doctor: I am 32 years old. I do not smoke or drink alcohol. For the past two months, I have been experiencing occasional hiccups and slight pain in my lower left back, but it usually goes away after a good night's sleep. Four days ago, I went to the emerge...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can discuss with the gastroenterologist whether further examinations are necessary.[Read More] Understanding Mild Pancreatitis: Symptoms and Concerns for Patients
Understanding Mild Pancreatitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Emergency mild pancreatitis Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my increased frequency of belching and flatulence, along with diarrhea that lasted for a month. I visited a large hospital and consulted a gastroenterologist, and after taking gastrointestinal medication for a mo...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello Leo, I’m not sure if you have undergone any imaging related to the pancreas. Generally, when it comes to pancreatitis, it is important to understand the underlying cause. However, some causes of pancreatitis may not be easily identifiable and may require monitoring over tim...[Read More] Understanding Mild Pancreatitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Understanding Pancreatitis Diagnosis: Normal Enzymes but Abnormal CT Scan Results
Please ask your questions regarding pancreatitis? Hello, I visited the doctor due to irritable bowel syndrome. During this period, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which did not reveal any issues, and the colonoscopy was also normal. Later, the doctor arranged for...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen: There are many causes of pancreatitis, and I am not aware of the findings in your CT scan report. I recommend consulting your attending physician. Dr. Cai Jin-ji, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Pancreatitis Diagnosis: Normal Enzymes but Abnormal CT Scan Results
Understanding Stomach Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Stomach pain issues? Thank you, doctor. I would like to ask about my condition. About two months ago, I started experiencing discomfort in my stomach that lasted for one to two weeks. Sometimes I had constipation, and occasionally diarrhea, but I did not have a fever. My bowel mo...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: It is advisable to pay attention to your diet and treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Common causes of pancreatitis include alcohol consumption, biliary issues, and hyperlipidemia. It is recommended to avoid overly greasy and sweet foods. Blood tests and imaging ...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: What You Need to Know
Amylase index A few years ago, during a health check-up, I discovered that my CA-199 levels were severely elevated. Later, it was found that I had a teratoma in my ovary. After surgery, my CA-199 levels decreased to around 40. Since then, I have been undergoing regular blood test...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: An increase in amylase levels is commonly used to assist in the diagnosis of pancreatitis. Amylase is also present in the salivary glands, and when renal function is impaired, the excretion of amylase decreases, leading to elevated levels. Additionally, conditions such as ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Amylase Levels: What You Need to Know
Why Is My Mother's Blood Sugar Stubbornly High After Insulin?
Blood sugar levels cannot be lowered? Hello Doctor: My mother is 63 years old. She was hospitalized for acute pancreatitis in September of the year before last and again in November of last year. She had her gallbladder removed in January of this year. She has diabetes and is on ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please discuss with an endocrinologist.[Read More] Why Is My Mother's Blood Sugar Stubbornly High After Insulin?