Understanding CA199 Levels After Gastric Cancer Surgery: What to Do Next?
CA199 index My mother was diagnosed with stomach cancer a year and a half ago. After surgery to remove the tumor, her tumor markers CEA and CA19-9 both decreased to safe levels. She has been continuously taking oral chemotherapy, but six months ago, her CA19-9 levels began to gra...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Consult with the attending physician to assess your individual condition.[Read More] Understanding CA199 Levels After Gastric Cancer Surgery: What to Do Next?
Understanding CA199 Levels After Gastric Cancer Surgery: What to Do Next?
CA199 index My mother was diagnosed with stomach cancer a year and a half ago. After surgery to remove the tumor, her tumor markers CEA and CA19-9 both decreased to safe levels. She has been continuing oral chemotherapy, but six months ago, CA19-9 began to gradually rise, and tod...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is necessary to consult with the attending physician to assess personal conditions.[Read More] Understanding CA199 Levels After Gastric Cancer Surgery: What to Do Next?
Understanding Appetite Loss, Stomach Pain, and Nausea: Key Insights
Loss of appetite, stomach pain, and nausea? Hello, doctor. I have a few questions: (Question 1) For the past 4 to 5 days, I have been experiencing a loss of appetite, sometimes not eating anything all day and only drinking nutritional water or jelly drinks. I have stomach pain ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Please visit a hepatobiliary and gastroenterology specialist for evaluation. Undergo liver function tests and an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.[Read More] Understanding Appetite Loss, Stomach Pain, and Nausea: Key Insights
High Liver Enzymes: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Solutions
If liver enzyme levels double, can it lead to symptoms such as abdominal bloating and pain, dizziness and headaches, blurred vision, generalized weakness, and loss of appetite? Hello, I would like to ask about my mother. Recently, she has been experiencing bloating and stomach pa...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
1. A twofold increase in liver enzymes is considered a mild elevation. 2. Many liver function abnormalities are asymptomatic; even if levels exceed 1000, symptoms, if present, are often non-specific, such as fatigue, decreased appetite, and nausea. 3. Your mother's symptoms ...[Read More] High Liver Enzymes: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Solutions
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation and Digestive Discomfort
Gastrointestinal bowel issues? About three or four days ago, I noticed I was a bit constipated because my stools were small, resembling little pellets, and not much was coming out. I went to the pharmacy and bought an enema, but it hasn't been very effective. Over the past t...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Dear Mr. Ah Xiang, your description seems to indicate poor gastrointestinal motility accompanied by constipation. It is recommended to exercise more, consume more fruits and vegetables, and increase your water intake. If there is no improvement, please visit a family medicine or ...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation and Digestive Discomfort
Understanding Side Effects of Gastrointestinal Medications: A Patient's Concern
Side effects of gastrointestinal medications? Hello, Doctor. I started taking the stomach medication Lansoprazole Capsules 30mg once daily and Emetrol Tablets 10mg three times daily from May 6th. My last menstrual period was on May 8th, and I usually have a regular cycle. However...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
In a small number of patients, Metoclopramide may affect menstruation. It is advisable to discontinue the medication and monitor the situation, or to schedule an earlier follow-up to discuss alternative medications. If necessary, a gynecological evaluation should be considered. I...[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Gastrointestinal Medications: A Patient's Concern
Can Antacids Interfere with Birth Control Pills? A Guide for Patients
Gastroesophageal reflux and contraceptive pills? Hello, I have been taking the oral contraceptive pill, Diane, for over six months. Recently, I have been experiencing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Can I take medications for GERD alongside the contraceptive p...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: There is no interaction between medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and contraceptives; they can be taken two hours apart. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Can Antacids Interfere with Birth Control Pills? A Guide for Patients
Frequent Burping After Meals: Is It Normal or Medication-Related?
Hiccups after eating? Hello, doctor. Last time I asked you about gastric nodules, and you described them as protrusions that are normal as long as the biopsy results are fine. I would like to ask you again. I usually do not experience stomach pain or discomfort, but since May 6th...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There should be no direct correlation; alternatively, the medication can be discontinued for 1-2 weeks for observation, and then reintroduced to compare the effects.[Read More] Frequent Burping After Meals: Is It Normal or Medication-Related?
Do You Really Need a Colonoscopy? Understanding Your Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Is a colonoscopy necessary? Hello Doctor, for the past six months to a year, my stools have been unformed, alternating between diarrhea and constipation. Sometimes I feel the urge to have a bowel movement, but I can't go, or I feel like I haven't fully emptied my bowels...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Abdominal ultrasound examination of the gastrointestinal tract is not very helpful. The likelihood of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is high. If symptoms persist, a colonoscopy may be considered.[Read More] Do You Really Need a Colonoscopy? Understanding Your Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Understanding Abdominal Discomfort After a Sports Injury
Stomach discomfort? Last night while practicing volleyball, I collided with a teammate while running, and their hand hit my stomach area. At that moment, I didn't feel like vomiting, but I felt a lot of pain and fell to the ground. Afterward, pressing on the area also caused...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
No.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Discomfort After a Sports Injury
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Liver Transplant: A Patient's Journey
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor, I underwent a liver transplant in 2000. After the transplant, I experienced stomach pain about once every 2-3 months. Even when I don't have stomach pain, I am accustomed to getting an endoscopy once a year or every six months. Each time...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, 1. A nodule simply describes a raised structure, and a biopsy is a standard procedure; as long as the biopsy results are normal, there is no issue. 2. For medication responses, it is advisable to consult your attending physician. 3. Generally, it is not recommended to take...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Liver Transplant: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Gastritis Nodules: GERD Symptoms and Treatment Insights
Gastric inflammatory nodules Hello, doctor. Last time I asked you a question, you mentioned that the bottom of my stomach resembles a polyp, but it's not a concern. Now I would like to ask you: 1. Can I experience gastroesophageal reflux in the morning when I haven't ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
You should consult an otolaryngologist. The effects of probiotics are not easy to evaluate.[Read More] Understanding Gastritis Nodules: GERD Symptoms and Treatment Insights
Could Your Symptoms Indicate Stomach Cancer? Key Insights
Is it possible that it is stomach cancer? Hello, doctor. For the past three days, I have been feeling a bit nauseous right after eating, along with a burning sensation in my upper abdomen. Additionally, I have been experiencing more frequent soft stools and almost always have abd...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
A diagnosis will be made once the examination is completed.[Read More] Could Your Symptoms Indicate Stomach Cancer? Key Insights
Understanding IBS: Persistent Bloating and Gastrointestinal Discomfort
I have been experiencing bloating and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome for almost a month? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been feeling uncomfortable with my gastrointestinal system and have visited several clinics and hospitals. I've had ultrasounds and X-rays done, ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It should be one of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome; however, a fecal occult blood test should be conducted first to rule out any intestinal diseases. Additionally, confirm that bowel habits are normal. Taking a walk after meals is recommended, and if necessary, medicati...[Read More] Understanding IBS: Persistent Bloating and Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Understanding Gastritis Nodules: Causes, Risks, and Recovery Time
Gastric inflammatory nodules Hello, doctor. I had a liver transplant 18 years ago. After the surgery, I experienced intermittent stomach pain, so I got into the habit of having an endoscopy every six months. Each time at National Taiwan University Hospital, they either said I had...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Didn't your doctor explain how this happened? 2. It is recommended to follow up, as it is not possible to determine the future based on the current situation; it may improve or it may progress to cancer. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Gastritis Nodules: Causes, Risks, and Recovery Time
Understanding Your Bowel Issues: When to Seek Gastrointestinal Care
Bowel issues Hello Doctor, I have been busy with work recently. After a few weeks of observation, I noticed that my stool is half black (hard) and half coffee-colored (soft). I have not eaten any blood-containing foods, and the thickness is normal. I have chronic gastritis. Could...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
If necessary, a fecal occult blood test may be performed first.[Read More] Understanding Your Bowel Issues: When to Seek Gastrointestinal Care
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: From Gas to Throat Tightness After Liver Transplant
Tightness in the clavicle? Hello Doctor, I have a history of liver transplantation and cesarean delivery. My doctor mentioned that I might have mild intestinal adhesions. Since my liver transplant, I have undergone gastroscopy every six months to a year. At National Taiwan Univer...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Your issue is quite complex. Please consult a gastroenterologist and discuss it in detail with Dr. Tsai An-Shun at Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: From Gas to Throat Tightness After Liver Transplant
Understanding Gastric Nodules: Causes, Concerns, and What You Need to Know
Gastric inflammatory nodules Hello, doctor. You haven't answered my previous question. From the past until now, the doctors at National Taiwan University have always mentioned mild inflammation and erosion, while at Taipei Medical University, they generally say it's mil...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: I believe you should trust the answers provided by your physician without overthinking. Doctors do not conceal serious conditions and will provide you with appropriate treatment. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Gastric Nodules: Causes, Concerns, and What You Need to Know
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Liver Transplant: A Patient's Journey
Gastrointestinal tract Hello Doctor, I had a liver transplant 15 years ago and sometimes experience stomach pain, so I have been getting endoscopies every six months. At National Taiwan University Hospital, the doctors have consistently told me that I have mild mucosal erosion, b...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Based on the description, it is likely that the condition is a fundic gland polyp. These types of polyps are benign and generally do not pose significant issues, so they typically do not require special treatment.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues After Liver Transplant: A Patient's Journey
Dietary Guidelines for Managing Gastritis: What to Eat and Avoid
Diet for Gastritis Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about dietary care for individuals with a history of gastritis. Generally speaking, aside from maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding overeating, eating small meals frequently, and steering clear of irritating foods such as...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Moderate consumption of milk can neutralize stomach acid, but excessive intake may trigger a rebound in acid secretion. Consuming too many liquids, including porridge, can also lead to an increase in stomach acid production.[Read More] Dietary Guidelines for Managing Gastritis: What to Eat and Avoid