Understanding Pancreatic Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Pancreatic issues Hello, Doctor. During my sophomore year of high school, I suddenly felt discomfort in my upper abdomen, which I wasn't sure was stomach pain (it felt more like a pressure pain). I went to the emergency room, where blood tests showed a white blood cell count...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is not pancreatitis; a follow-up visit is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Issues: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding Acute Pancreatitis: Symptoms, Recovery, and Dietary Adjustments
Acute pancreatitis Hello Dr. Chen, I do not smoke or drink alcohol and have no history of hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia. Recently, I was hospitalized due to abdominal pain and diagnosed with acute pancreatitis. I was on a fasting diet for five days, and after treatmen...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Amylase levels above 300 are significant. It is advisable to reduce oil, sugar, and salt intake in daily diet.[Read More] Understanding Acute Pancreatitis: Symptoms, Recovery, and Dietary Adjustments
Dietary Guidelines for Managing Acute Pancreatitis in Children
Diet for Pancreatitis Hello Dr. Chen, My child is studying abroad and has no consultation channels, so I would like to seek your expertise. On March 7, after having a large meal, they were diagnosed with moderate to severe acute pancreatitis. After treatment, they returned home...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
After the acute phase, starchy foods can be gradually introduced along with proteins and fats, but it is essential to continue monitoring lipid levels. Bowel movements can be improved with fruits and vegetables, and medications may be used if necessary for regulation.[Read More] Dietary Guidelines for Managing Acute Pancreatitis in Children
Understanding CA19-9 and Amylase Levels in Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis
CA19-9 Issues The CA 19-9 level of 76.2 and the amylase level of 47 can provide insights into pancreatic health. CA 19-9 is a tumor marker often elevated in pancreatic cancer, with levels above 37 U/mL typically indicating a potential malignancy. A level of 76.2 suggests a possib...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, CA 19-9: 76.2 is elevated and abnormal. Amylase is 47, which is within the normal range. CA 19-9 is a tumor marker associated with pancreatic cancer, but it has low specificity and sensitivity. Conditions such as biliary diseases, gallstones, pancreatitis, gastrointestin...[Read More] Understanding CA19-9 and Amylase Levels in Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis
Understanding Sudden Lipase Spikes After Acute Pancreatitis
Lip levels suddenly exceed the normal range? Hello, doctor. I was hospitalized last week due to acute pancreatitis, and my lipase level was 119 upon admission. However, it suddenly spiked to 500 before my discharge, which caused me to stay an additional two days. A follow-up bloo...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Lipase may be elevated during pancreatitis. The rise occurs more slowly but remains abnormal for a longer duration. Symptoms are the primary focus, and laboratory tests are only for reference. Amylase and lipase are digestive enzymes secreted by the pancreas. When the panc...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Lipase Spikes After Acute Pancreatitis
Persistent Pain Near Ribs: Understanding Possible Gastrointestinal Issues
Persistent pain near the ribs? At the beginning of the month, I was diagnosed with pancreatitis at the hospital after blood tests indicated inflammation. However, it has been a month, and there has been no improvement. I have been trying to maintain a light diet, but the pain in ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, a 31-year-old female is experiencing persistent pain near the rib cage. She has a history of pancreatitis, which can be commonly caused by factors such as alcohol consumption, gallstones, bile duct stones, autoimmune diseases, hypertriglyceridemia, and certain medications....[Read More] Persistent Pain Near Ribs: Understanding Possible Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Pancreatic Health: Normal Ultrasound and Blood Test Results
Pancreatic ultrasound and blood draw? Hello Dr. Lin, I would like to ask about my recent abdominal ultrasound and blood tests conducted in the gastroenterology department. My blood tests for CA19-9 and CEA were both normal, and the abdominal ultrasound showed no abnormalities in ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, pancreatic cancer is associated with several risk factors such as family history, chronic cholangitis, chronic pancreatitis, and biliary cystic diseases. Inflammation of the bile and pancreas is related to alcohol consumption and gallstones. Currently, if examinations are ...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Health: Normal Ultrasound and Blood Test Results
Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort After Eating: Causes and Solutions
A problem with the stomach? The issue is that after eating an apple and an orange on an empty stomach in the morning, I then consumed three meat buns. Within less than half an hour, I began to experience bloating and some dull pain in my upper abdomen. I thought a walk would help...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: A 43-year-old male experienced abdominal bloating and pain after eating too much and too quickly, followed by cold sweats and vomiting. The next day, he had diarrhea, which could indicate gastroenteritis, but also possibly cholecystitis or pancreatitis. Two weeks later, he...[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Discomfort After Eating: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Post-Biliary Stent Symptoms: Dizziness, Nausea, and Vomiting
Biliary stent Why do I feel dizzy, vomit, and experience nausea after having a biliary stent placed when I return home?
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Are you going home immediately after the procedure? If so, it may be that the anesthesia has not fully worn off. If you are not going home right away, you should consider postoperative complications such as cholangitis, pancreatitis, or excessive gas in the intestines foll...[Read More] Understanding Post-Biliary Stent Symptoms: Dizziness, Nausea, and Vomiting
Understanding White Stool: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
White stool Hello Dr. Lin, I noticed white stools when I had a bowel movement on Monday (April 12). After researching online, I found that the symptoms related to my condition could be gallstones and hepatitis. A few years ago, I had an abdominal ultrasound for hepatitis B and w...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Normal stool is yellow, while white stool is often caused by the inability of bile to flow, which can be due to liver, gallbladder, or pancreatic diseases. Common causes include bile duct obstruction. If bile duct obstruction is suspected, there may also be symptoms such a...[Read More] Understanding White Stool: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Is It Normal for Stomach Pain to Last for Weeks? Understanding Your Symptoms
Is it normal for stomach pain to persist for several weeks? Hello, doctor. After I asked you my question last time, I went to the hospital to see a doctor. That doctor advised me to take medication for a month to see if my symptoms improve. However, it has been over three weeks s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Don't worry, just follow the medication regimen and be mindful of your movements to avoid straining your abdominal muscles.[Read More] Is It Normal for Stomach Pain to Last for Weeks? Understanding Your Symptoms
Can a Low-Carb Diet Be Safe After Acute Pancreatitis?
Can a person with a history of acute pancreatitis follow a low-carbohydrate diet? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis (caused by hyperlipidemia) on the night of February 5th this year. I was also diagnosed with hyperlipidemia and diabetes. Currently, my triglyce...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Not suitable; it can only be relatively low in sugar/low in fat/high in protein and should be combined with medication management.[Read More] Can a Low-Carb Diet Be Safe After Acute Pancreatitis?
Understanding Ampullary Polyps: Risks, Diagnosis, and Surgical Options
Ampullary polyp Hello, my father previously underwent ERCP due to recurrent pancreatitis of unknown origin. During the procedure, a polyp approximately 0.5 cm in size was found at the ampulla and was removed. A biopsy was performed, and the report indicated malignancy; however, t...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on your description, if the next step is cancer (which is typically reported as adenocarcinoma in pathology reports), it should be high-grade dysplasia. 2. It is important to check whether there is any abnormal tissue growth in the ampulla, and whether the margins...[Read More] Understanding Ampullary Polyps: Risks, Diagnosis, and Surgical Options
Understanding Ampullary Polyps: Risks and Pathology Insights
Ampullary polyp The father underwent ERCP due to recurrent pancreatitis, during which a polyp was found and removed from the ampulla. The attending physician mentioned that it is uncertain whether it is an adenoma or something else, and advised waiting for the pathology report. I...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The risk level still needs to be confirmed based on the pathology report; please discuss this with the attending physician.[Read More] Understanding Ampullary Polyps: Risks and Pathology Insights
Understanding Pancreatitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks of Recurrence
Pancreatitis issues Hello, doctor. My father experienced severe abdominal pain about 5.6 years ago and went to the emergency room, where he was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis. At that time, his enzyme levels were over 10,000, but he did not want to be hospitalized and went hom...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. The pancreatic inflammation index usually refers to amylase or lipase levels that rise to more than three times the normal value. 2. Alcohol consumption is the primary cause; additionally, the presence of gallstones (some of which may be small and not visible on a CT sc...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks of Recurrence
Managing Fatty Liver and Gastrointestinal Issues: Your Questions Answered
Inquiry and consultation? Hello Doctor: I had a liver ultrasound today. I have been associated with the hepatobiliary and gastroenterology department since many years ago due to elevated liver enzymes. In my younger days, I often stayed up late and had a penchant for sweet foods ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, fatty liver refers to the accumulation of fat in liver cells, which may sometimes cause fluctuations in liver enzyme levels, but typically involves minimal liver fibrosis. Once it progresses to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the liver may exhibit inflammation or fib...[Read More] Managing Fatty Liver and Gastrointestinal Issues: Your Questions Answered
Managing Pancreatitis: Endoscopic Stenting for Narrowed Pancreatic Duct
Pancreatitis Hello, I would like to ask a doctor a question. I have a narrowed pancreatic duct and frequently experience pancreatitis (I do not drink alcohol). Is it suitable for me to undergo endoscopic pancreatic duct stenting? After the procedure, will it help reduce the frequ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please confirm the cause of the narrowing. If it is only symptomatic treatment, a plastic stent can be placed initially, but there is significant individual variation among patients, so a detailed discussion with the attending physician is necessary.[Read More] Managing Pancreatitis: Endoscopic Stenting for Narrowed Pancreatic Duct
Understanding Alcohol-Induced Liver Failure: A Daughter's Plea for Help
Excessive alcohol consumption I urgently need a doctor’s help to address my concerns. My father recently experienced liver coma after drinking alcohol. Before the liver coma, he had sudden fainting episodes, both on the street and while driving. After the liver coma, he was admit...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, long-term excessive alcohol consumption can lead to brain lesions, impaired cardiac function, hepatitis, cirrhosis and its complications, pancreatitis, avascular necrosis of the femoral head, and alcohol dependence. If the situation is urgent, it is advisable to seek emerg...[Read More] Understanding Alcohol-Induced Liver Failure: A Daughter's Plea for Help
Understanding Erythematous Gastritis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Erythematous gastritis Hello Doctor: I have some health-related questions that I hope you can help clarify. Two months ago, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and the doctor indicated that everything was fine. However, today I checked my personal health record and s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It should just be a case of mild gastritis. Pancreatic steatorrhea occurs after multiple episodes of severe pancreatitis, which does not seem to be the case here.[Read More] Understanding Erythematous Gastritis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Concerns
Understanding Persistent Pancreatitis Indicators in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients
Pancreatitis index and hepatitis C? Hello, for a person who has been a carrier of hepatitis C and received interferon treatment 12 years ago, if the pancreatic inflammation markers have remained elevated over the past year, what conditions could cause persistently high pancreatic...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
An elevation of the pancreatic inflammation index (amylase) by more than two times is clinically significant; therefore, there is no need for concern, and it is unrelated to the previous use of interferon.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Pancreatitis Indicators in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients