Understanding Persistent Hiccups: When to Seek Medical Advice
Chronic hiccups Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing hiccups since December of last year. Initially, they occurred only after meals, but later they became more frequent and unpredictable, happening upon waking and when I'm hungry. Each episode consists of two to three hicc...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There should be no related issues; it is mostly caused by peristaltic digestion. There may also be subconscious habits of belching. It is advisable to eat small, frequent meals, minimize talking during meals, and take a walk after eating instead of sitting for long periods.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Hiccups: When to Seek Medical Advice
Why Is My Stomach Hard? Understanding Abdominal Hardness in Slim Individuals
The abdomen feels firm? Doctor, I am a person with a slim build, standing at 158 cm and weighing 38 kg. Recently, I have noticed that my abdomen feels hard. Is it normal for slim individuals to have a hard abdomen, or could there be another reason for this?
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
As long as the weight is stable, digestion and bowel movements are regular, and there are no symptoms, observation can continue.[Read More] Why Is My Stomach Hard? Understanding Abdominal Hardness in Slim Individuals
Upper Right Abdominal Discomfort: Could It Be Cancer?
Discomfort in the right upper abdomen - cancer concerns? In August 2022, I started experiencing nausea, abdominal bloating, discomfort in the upper right abdomen, and a tingling sensation. I subsequently went to the hospital for an endoscopy, which revealed gastroesophageal reflu...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is unlikely to be related to cancer; it may just be a digestive issue. A fecal occult blood test can be performed.[Read More] Upper Right Abdominal Discomfort: Could It Be Cancer?
Morning Nausea and Dry Heaving: Causes and Concerns
Nausea and dry heaving upon waking up in the morning? Hello doctor, recently I have been feeling nauseous upon waking up, especially when brushing my teeth and tongue. Sometimes I vomit yellow gastric acid. What could be causing these symptoms? Could it be due to gastroesophageal...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It stimulates reflexive vomiting of gastric contents (including a small amount of yellow bile).[Read More] Morning Nausea and Dry Heaving: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Persistent Hiccups: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Persistent Hiccups Hello Doctor: I have never experienced issues such as hiccups or gastrointestinal discomfort in the past. However, starting in October of last year, I began to have symptoms of chest tightness, acid reflux, and nausea when lying down. After receiving treatment ...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, it is advisable to seek medical examination. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Hiccups: Causes and Concerns in Gastroenterology
Understanding Stress-Induced Stomach Pain: Is It Normal?
Abdominal pain occurs during times of stress? Hello doctor, I am someone who gets nervous quite easily. Whenever I feel a lot of pressure and tension, I experience stomach pain and the urge to have a bowel movement, but it lasts for a short duration (no longer than five minutes)....
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It may be general irritable bowel syndrome; monitor diet and stress, and observe further.[Read More] Understanding Stress-Induced Stomach Pain: Is It Normal?
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 Gastroesophageal Reflux: Managing Anxiety and Discomfort
I am not sure if it is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? Hello, doctor. Due to being in a high-stress state all day, I feel particularly uncomfortable in my stomach after eating. When I lie down, I have a strong urge to press on my stomach (it feels like there is a buildup ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There may be mutual influences, and a consultation with a psychosomatic specialist regarding medication should be considered.[Read More] Understanding Gastroesophageal Reflux: Managing Anxiety and Discomfort
Understanding the Link Between Postpartum Depression and Gastrointestinal Issues
Depression and Panic Disorder Hello, doctor. I am over two months postpartum and experiencing severe depression and panic attacks. Additionally, for the past month, I have been having gastrointestinal discomfort almost every day, often experiencing "hunger pains" even t...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Gastrointestinal symptoms can initially be managed with medication in a gastroenterology outpatient setting, but they may still be influenced by depression and anxiety.[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Postpartum Depression and Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Noisy Stomach Sounds While Lying Down: Causes and Solutions
When lying down, my stomach keeps making noises? I have two recent concerns that I would like to ask the doctor about. Thank you very much for your help. 1. At night, when I lie down to sleep, my stomach keeps making loud noises. I didn't eat much for dinner and didn't...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It may be caused by rapid intestinal peristalsis. If there is no cramping, it is generally not a concern. However, if cramping occurs along with a sense of urgency and discomfort, you may want to consult a gastroenterologist for medication adjustment. Changhua Hospital car...[Read More] Understanding Noisy Stomach Sounds While Lying Down: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Unexplained Stomach Pulsations: When to Seek Help
The stomach is fluttering but not painful? Recently, I have been experiencing a sensation of my stomach "jumping" throughout the day, located in the lower center of my left chest. The sensation is quite strong, and I can feel it distinctly, differing from my heart rate....
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Generally, the stomach may experience spasms, but it should not have continuous rhythmic pulsations. If there are regular pulsating movements, it may be necessary to have an evaluation by a cardiologist. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Stomach Pulsations: When to Seek Help
Abdominal Cramps and Diarrhea: When to Seek Medical Help While Traveling
Intermittent cramping abdominal pain and diarrhea? Hello Doctor, I am currently traveling in Japan. The night before last, I felt some bloating in my stomach before going to bed. I woke up in the middle of the night with abdominal pain and had diarrhea. The pain has continued, so...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Testing is available to determine if there is a COVID-19 infection. Additionally, dietary and medication management for symptoms is necessary. If the sclera (the white part of the eyes) also turns yellow (jaundice), medical attention is required.[Read More] Abdominal Cramps and Diarrhea: When to Seek Medical Help While Traveling
Understanding Bowel Noises and Blood in Stool: When to Seek Help
Borborygmi and rectal bleeding issues? I usually go to bed around 1 to 2 AM and wake up between 8 and 9 AM. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I have dinner around 9 PM due to work, but I eat normally at other times. However, I don't often have breakfast because of my classes. Since...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Ms. M: Due to your family history and the presence of blood in your stool, it is recommended that you schedule a colonoscopy for further evaluation. This would be the best course of action. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Noises and Blood in Stool: When to Seek Help
Understanding the Connection Between Anxiety and Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello, I had a cesarean section at the end of November, and afterwards, I experienced severe postpartum depression and anxiety, which has caused my gastrointestinal system to be in a state of tension every day for nearly a month. I have seen...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Gastrointestinal symptoms can be managed with medication, but they can still be influenced by depression and anxiety.[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Anxiety and Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Gastric Ultrasound Results: Do I Need a Follow-Up?
Gastric ultrasound During a hepatitis B ultrasound examination, the examining doctor noted the appearance of my stomach and asked if I had eaten or drunk anything. They mentioned that a normal stomach ultrasound appears white, while mine appeared black, indicating that I had cons...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is generally unnecessary, as imaging of gastric fluids/solids often does not have a direct correlation with symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Gastric Ultrasound Results: Do I Need a Follow-Up?
Understanding Sudden Breathing Pain After Bile Duct Stenting
Sudden sharp pain in the chest while breathing? I would like to ask the doctor if there are any records of gallstones passing after the placement of a stent. My situation is as follows: I was diagnosed with gallstones last month, and I currently have a stent placed in my bile duc...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Sudden sharp pain during breathing has occurred after the placement of a stent in the common bile duct. Small stones in the gallbladder and bile duct may pass spontaneously. However, due to the narrow size of the cystic duct, gallstones can sometimes become lodged, leading...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Breathing Pain After Bile Duct Stenting
Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Persistent Pain and Treatment Concerns
Diagnosed with a gastric ulcer on December 6th? On December 6th, I was diagnosed with a gastric ulcer in the emergency department. I have been experiencing pain in my lower back and thighs, and I have trouble sleeping at night. I underwent a CT scan and an endoscopy, but no abnor...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
The pharmacological treatment for gastric ulcers may require 8 to 12 weeks, and it is important to understand the underlying causes of gastric ulcers. Chronic stress, irregular eating habits, Helicobacter pylori infection, alcohol consumption, smoking, and the use of analgesics c...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Persistent Pain and Treatment Concerns
Frequent Belching and Sleep Disturbances: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Sudden frequent hiccups and shallow sleep? One evening in early September, I suddenly began experiencing frequent belching, which has continued every day since then. During that time, I did not make any significant changes to my diet, nor did I experience any stressful events, an...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Regarding the issues of belching and shallow sleep, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be difficult to completely resolve. Seasonal changes and dietary modifications can sometimes trigger gastrointestinal disorders in individuals sensitive to gastric mucosa. It is recomme...[Read More] Frequent Belching and Sleep Disturbances: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and When to Worry
Mucous stools without blood? Hello, Deputy Director. Sometimes when I have softer stools, I notice mucus when I wipe after straining, which is brown and does not contain blood. However, there is no mucus in the stool itself, just the odor of the stool. This occurrence is infreque...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
When experiencing soft stools with mucus but no blood, and noticing that stools become soft and mucous during stressful times, it can be concerning, especially after eating something that may have upset your stomach. The fear of colorectal cancer is understandable. At your age, t...[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool: Causes and When to Worry
Managing Nighttime Acid Reflux: Tips for Better Sleep
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Every night around three or four in the morning, I experience acid reflux that causes stomach pain and wakes me up, requiring me to sleep sitting up. This severely affects my sleep. During the day, I do not experience reflux, only indigestio...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) severely affects sleep and quality of life. Although proton pump inhibitors have been used for treatment, there are still instances of nighttime reflux. In addition to medication, it is important to pay attention to dietary and lifest...[Read More] Managing Nighttime Acid Reflux: Tips for Better Sleep