Is Black, Tar-Like Stool Normal After Emergency Gastric Lavage?
Bowel movement after emergency gastric lavage? Hello, I was admitted to the emergency room a couple of days ago for gastric lavage and had activated charcoal administered via a nasogastric tube. Since then, I have had two bowel movements, both of which were black, tarry stools. I...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
The stool may appear black after gastric lavage with activated charcoal, which is generally considered normal due to the color of the charcoal. Activated charcoal can adsorb toxins in the stomach and is not absorbed by the body, ultimately being excreted in the stool, thereby all...[Read More] Is Black, Tar-Like Stool Normal After Emergency Gastric Lavage?
Understanding Bowel Sounds and Gastrointestinal Issues: What You Need to Know
Borborygmi. Gastrointestinal issues? Hello Doctor: I am 30 years old, and I have been experiencing something unusual these past few days. After meals, my stomach often makes gurgling noises (it feels like my intestines are making the sounds). Sometimes I experience abdominal pain...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If the abnormal reflexive peristalsis is solely caused by diet, one can slow down the eating pace. If necessary, medication can be taken before meals for adjustment. If there are still concerns, a stool occult blood test can be performed.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Sounds and Gastrointestinal Issues: What You Need to Know
Understanding Stomach Issues: Risks of H. Pylori Infection and Ulcers
Issues related to gastroscopy and Helicobacter pylori infection? Hello doctor, I would like to ask three questions: 1. Is it possible to get infected with Helicobacter pylori during an endoscopy? I am concerned because during the procedure, I have to bite down on something and ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
1. Modern endoscope disinfection involves using bite blocks only once, preventing any subsequent transmission. 2. Yes, most other cases are due to food or medication-related injuries. 3. Soap is the best option.[Read More] Understanding Stomach Issues: Risks of H. Pylori Infection and Ulcers
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 White Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Issues with Stool Color Hello, Deputy Director! I previously inquired about constipation (the one who eats a lot of sweet potatoes and dietary fiber), and I would like to ask some more questions. A few days ago, I experienced constipation, so on Monday, I visited my family medici...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is just a color change; further observation is needed, and if necessary, it can be sent for testing. (Since there is no biliary obstruction on ultrasound.)[Read More] Understanding White Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Managing Evening Bloating and Gas: Solutions for Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Experiencing bloating at night and being unable to pass gas until the morning can be a common issue? After noon, I start to experience bloating and a sensation of trapped gas that I can't release (it is indeed difficult to pass gas, and I only occasionally manage to do so, b...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
If symptoms do not improve with medication treatment, it is recommended to schedule an earlier follow-up consultation with your attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Managing Evening Bloating and Gas: Solutions for Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Understanding Chronic Gastrointestinal Issues: IBS vs. Crohn's Disease
Recurrent gastroenteritis? Irritable bowel syndrome? Crohn's disease? Hello Doctor, in early September of this year, I developed gastroenteritis after consuming something unclean. Just as I was recovering, I ingested something unclean again, causing my gastroenteritis sympto...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Blood and stool tests showed no issues. It is advised to pay attention to the problematic areas and monitor your diet. Limit the intake of foods that can increase stomach acid, such as coffee, chocolate, carbonated beverages, and fried foods. Additionally, reduce smoking, as it c...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Gastrointestinal Issues: IBS vs. Crohn's Disease
Understanding Stomach Capacity: Volume Before and After Meals
Gastric capacity & gastric juice volume The average gastric volume for an adult is approximately 50-100 milliliters when fasting and can increase to about 1,000-1,500 milliliters after a meal.
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The average gastric capacity of an adult is approximately 1500 milliliters, although it can vary from person to person.[Read More] Understanding Stomach Capacity: Volume Before and After Meals
Understanding Esophageal Reflux: Medication Duration and Symptoms Explained
Medication Consultation I recently underwent an upper endoscopy, which confirmed that I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and esophagitis. The doctor prescribed Nexium (esomeprazole), which I took for two months, and I felt much better. However, I interrupted the medica...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Controlling stomach acid/reflux should be effective; further observation and dietary adjustments can be made, and prokinetic agents may be added.[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Reflux: Medication Duration and Symptoms Explained
Intermittent Right Lower Rib Pain: When to Consult a Gastroenterologist?
Intermittent pain in the right lower rib area? Hello Doctor, my father has stage I lung adenocarcinoma and early-stage hypertension (with a systolic blood pressure of about 130). He underwent a right upper lobectomy at the end of December last year, and a follow-up low-dose compu...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If pain persists after taking gastric medication, a referral to a gastroenterologist may be considered.[Read More] Intermittent Right Lower Rib Pain: When to Consult a Gastroenterologist?
Understanding Gastroenteritis: Symptoms and Duration Explained
Gastroenteritis I would like to ask about my symptoms. Last Tuesday, I suddenly experienced stomach and abdominal bloating, nausea, and chest tightness, so I went to see a doctor. The doctor diagnosed me with a gastrointestinal flu and noted some throat inflammation. Over the pas...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Recovery speed varies from person to person, and dietary adjustments can be made for observation.[Read More] Understanding Gastroenteritis: Symptoms and Duration Explained
Should You Take Nankang Weili Zan Before or After Meals?
Nanguang Weili Zan should be taken before meals? Hello Dr. Tsai, I have gastroesophageal reflux disease, and the doctor prescribed me Nankang Gastric Relief to be taken twice a day. The medication bag and the Nankang product leaflet state to take it after breakfast and dinner, bu...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It can be taken before or after meals. However, since it is a medication that suppresses gastric acid secretion, taking it before meals aims to achieve the suppressive effect before food enters the stomach. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Should You Take Nankang Weili Zan Before or After Meals?
Understanding Abdominal Pain, Bloating, and Changes in Bowel Habits
Abdominal pain, bowel sounds, changes in bowel habits? I am 20 years old. Doctor, I would like to ask about my symptoms. I often experience abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, and stomach rumbling, which have been ongoing for a while. Yesterday, I had diarrhea with a small amount...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely a mild enteritis; a bland diet should be followed while monitoring for changes in symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain, Bloating, and Changes in Bowel Habits
Why Am I Hungrier After Starting Triple Therapy for H. Pylori?
Taking the triple therapy for Helicobacter pylori makes me feel very hungry? Recently, I was diagnosed with duodenal ulcer, gastritis, and positive Helicobacter pylori. I am currently following my doctor's advice and taking a triple therapy medication (Nexium + Amoxicillin +...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Please follow the doctor's instructions regarding medication. During the treatment period, try to choose a mild and non-irritating diet, avoiding spicy foods, milk, caffeine, or alcoholic beverages. If you are experiencing significant discomfort from hunger, please return fo...[Read More] Why Am I Hungrier After Starting Triple Therapy for H. Pylori?
Managing Medication for Esophageal and Stomach Ulcers: What You Need to Know
Medication issues for gastric ulcers and esophageal ulcers? Hello, doctor. Previously, I developed esophageal ulcers due to taking acne antibiotics before bed and not drinking enough water. After undergoing an endoscopy, it was confirmed to be drug-induced esophagitis, and there ...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Please take the medication as prescribed. If you have any concerns, please return for a follow-up consultation with your physician. Thank you.[Read More] Managing Medication for Esophageal and Stomach Ulcers: What You Need to Know
How Often Should You Get an Endoscopy for GERD? Expert Insights
Gastrointestinal endoscopy for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? How often should a doctor perform an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy? My last examination showed mild gastroesophageal reflux (Grade A). I would like to know if scheduling another endoscopy in 2 to 3 years is...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there are no symptoms, there is no consensus on the need for further testing. Confirming the absence of Helicobacter pylori is sufficient; if concerned, a gastroscopy can be done every five years (out-of-pocket).[Read More] How Often Should You Get an Endoscopy for GERD? Expert Insights
Managing Recurrent Gallstone Pain: To Operate or Not?
Recurrent pain from gallstones? Hello Doctor: Since September, I have been experiencing recurrent abdominal pain. In October, I underwent an endoscopy, which confirmed that there were no issues with my stomach or duodenum. An ultrasound examination revealed gallstones, with a few...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Surgery is recommended, and in most cases, laparoscopic surgery will suffice.[Read More] Managing Recurrent Gallstone Pain: To Operate or Not?
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Bloating: Is It IBS?
Abdominal pain and borborygmi? I am 20 years old. My daily routine is irregular, and lately I have been experiencing frequent abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, stomach rumbling, and alternating diarrhea and constipation. I usually have a bowel movement once a day, and the abdom...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If symptoms persist for more than three months, it can be diagnosed as mild irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In addition to lifestyle and dietary adjustments, medication may be necessary for management.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Bloating: Is It IBS?
Understanding Vomiting, Stomach Pain, and Acid Reflux Issues
Vomiting, stomach pain, gastroesophageal reflux? Hello Doctor: Three months ago, I started experiencing mild acid reflux, loud burping, and frequent urges to burp. Last week, I felt a fever and weakness, and I vomited heavily at night. The next day, I began to have dull pain in m...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy can be performed along with medication therapy.[Read More] Understanding Vomiting, Stomach Pain, and Acid Reflux Issues
Persistent Bloating, Burping, and Nausea: When to Seek Gastrointestinal Care
Persistent bloating, belching, and nausea? Hello, doctor. Recently, whenever I eat or drink even a little liquid, I feel bloated in my upper abdomen, and I keep burping, even feeling nauseous. After each meal, my stomach becomes distended and painful (like a pregnant belly), but ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there is no change in weight, further observation or an endoscopy can be considered for reassurance.[Read More] Persistent Bloating, Burping, and Nausea: When to Seek Gastrointestinal Care