Could Anemia Indicate Colon Cancer? Understanding Your Symptoms
Is anemia a sign of colorectal cancer? Hello doctor, when I stand up from sitting, I experience a blackout. I often have difficulty having a complete bowel movement and feel like I can't fully relieve myself. I frequently burp but can't seem to get it out, and when I do...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Anemia can have many causes, and it is important to identify the underlying reason. Common types include thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia may result from gastrointestinal bleeding, poor diet, or menstruation. Symptoms such as pain during bowel moveme...[Read More] Could Anemia Indicate Colon Cancer? Understanding Your Symptoms
Persistent Bloating and Nausea: Should You Consider an Endoscopy?
Abdominal bloating and nausea? In July of this year, I experienced bloating and nausea two hours after meals. I went to the hospital and took medication for a month, and also underwent a radiological examination of my stomach. Ultimately, they only mentioned that I had slightly e...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Ms. Yang Yang: If you are still feeling unwell, you can discuss with your physician whether a gastroscopy is necessary. Director Cai Jin-ji from the Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology at Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Persistent Bloating and Nausea: Should You Consider an Endoscopy?
Understanding Dark Brown Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
The stool color is darker than usual? Hello Doctor, I have been waking up with stomach pain this week, and then I have to have a bowel movement. The stools are somewhat fragmented and short, not very complete long shapes, but they are all brown in color. Yesterday, I decided to t...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Black or red indicates bleeding. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Dark Brown Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding GERD: When Medication Stops Working and Next Steps
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) I would like to ask the doctor about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). I previously underwent an endoscopy, which confirmed that I have esophageal reflux with noticeable damage to the esophagus. The doctor prescribed Nexium (esomeprazo...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The validity of the gastroscope is four months. Symptom management still requires lifestyle adjustments, and prokinetic agents may be added if necessary.[Read More] Understanding GERD: When Medication Stops Working and Next Steps
Post-Treatment Care for Mild Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers: Is It Necessary?
Helicobacter pylori, mild gastric ulcer, mild duodenal ulcer, issues after 16 weeks of medication? Hello Doctor, in July of this year, I went to a gastroenterology clinic for a self-paid gastroscopy. The doctor mentioned that I have mild gastric ulcers and mild duodenal ulcers, a...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
After sterilization, a confirmation of successful sterilization is performed (often using the blow test). It may be considered to discontinue medication or to keep maintenance medication to be taken only when symptoms arise.[Read More] Post-Treatment Care for Mild Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers: Is It Necessary?
Understanding Side Effects of Anxiety Medications and Gastrointestinal Treatments
Drug side effects I would like to ask the doctor, I am currently taking an anti-anxiety medication (Cymbalta) and during a visit to the gastroenterologist last week, I was diagnosed with mild gastroesophageal reflux disease. The doctor prescribed "Esomeprazole" to be ta...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Medication can be discontinued for observation; if improvement occurs, the medication can be restarted. If diarrhea recurs, consider switching to a different medication.[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Anxiety Medications and Gastrointestinal Treatments
Can You Take Lutein After PPI Medication? A Guide for Patients
Issues with PPI medications? Hello, doctor. After undergoing an endoscopy, the physician indicated that there is mild inflammation and redness in my stomach and prescribed Dexilant (a PPI). I would like to ask if it is acceptable to take the PPI before breakfast and then take lut...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Drug metabolism takes time, and some medications may still interact even when taken separately. It is advisable to consult your prescribing physician. Thank you.[Read More] Can You Take Lutein After PPI Medication? A Guide for Patients
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Blood in the stool??? Today I have been passing gas frequently, and at one point, some liquid stool leaked out. I thought I was going to have diarrhea. My stomach felt slightly uncomfortable, and after three hours, I had a bowel movement. Overall, it was a single piece but broken...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr. Hong, based on your description, it is definitely not gastrointestinal bleeding. I recommend monitoring the situation. If you continue to have black stools, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Why Can't a CT Scan Detect the Pancreas? Understanding the Risks
The pancreas is not visible on the CT scan? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about a previous abdominal CT scan that revealed a cyst larger than 16 cm in the abdomen, and my stomach has also shifted forward. However, both the written report and the images indicate that the pancr...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It should be covered; I recommend checking the results of the follow-up examinations.[Read More] Why Can't a CT Scan Detect the Pancreas? Understanding the Risks
Understanding Upper Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Pain in the upper abdomen and left chest? In recent years, I have been experiencing stomach pain intermittently. When it becomes severe, I visit a doctor and take gastric medication. During a health check-up in February and March, I received a report indicating two abnormal tumor...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
It is recommended to have regular follow-up visits to monitor your current discomfort. Please seek medical evaluation based on your symptoms. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Persistent Digestive Issues: Understanding and Managing Diarrhea Symptoms
Gastrointestinal discomfort with persistent diarrhea? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort for the past week, with symptoms including stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea. I have been having diarrhea every day, sometimes more than five times, and I fee...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Based on your description, you have seen a doctor and taken medication, but your condition has not improved. Please return for a follow-up consultation with your original physician. Thank you.[Read More] Persistent Digestive Issues: Understanding and Managing Diarrhea Symptoms
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Cramping: Causes and Solutions
Left lower abdominal cramping? Hello, doctor. I have had gastrointestinal issues for many years, experiencing bloating and stomach pain. When these symptoms occur, I take the medications prescribed by my doctor. I also take probiotics daily to help with bowel movements. A week ag...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Please evaluate in the outpatient clinic. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Cramping: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Upper Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Concerns
Abdominal bloating Hello Doctor, I would like to ask what could be the cause of a feeling of bloating and tightness in the middle of the upper abdomen? There is no pain in the abdomen, and the stool is either mushy or watery with bubbles. I have a history of adhesions due to a pr...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is recommended to visit a gastroenterology outpatient clinic for further evaluation to determine if there are any issues related to the stomach or biliary pancreas.[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Stomach Discomfort: Causes and Concerns About Gastric Cancer
Stomach discomfort? Hello, doctor. I've been experiencing some discomfort in my stomach for the past two to three weeks, especially when I'm on an empty stomach. I often feel a warm sensation in my stomach and occasionally have stomach pain. I would like to know what mi...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, the symptoms you described are more likely caused by gastric acid, while stomach cancer is less likely to present symptoms. If you still have concerns, you may want to consult a gastroenterologist to see if an endoscopy is necessary. Additionally, it is...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Discomfort: Causes and Concerns About Gastric Cancer
Understanding Stomach Discomfort: Causes and Cancer Concerns
Stomach discomfort? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing a feeling of heat in my stomach and stomach pain while fasting, which has lasted for about a few weeks. Taking regular antacids provides some relief. I would like to know what the possible causes could be. Is t...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is mostly acid reflux, with less acidity/sweetness and less coffee.[Read More] Understanding Stomach Discomfort: Causes and Cancer Concerns
Understanding Bowel Issues: From Diarrhea to Constipation Concerns
Constipation Hello Doctor, Recently, for the past week, my bowel movements have been very strange. For the first three days, I had diarrhea, but on the fourth day, I started experiencing abdominal pain and developed constipation. I have to spend over 30 minutes in the bathroom,...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Increase the intake of fruits and vegetables, reduce oil and dairy, take a walk after meals, and then observe.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: From Diarrhea to Constipation Concerns
Swallowed Gum: Should You Worry About Digestive Blockage?
Accidentally swallowed chewing gum? I accidentally swallowed two pieces of gum the size of Airwaves, even though I typically only consume two pieces a month. I understand that gum usually passes through the digestive tract due to peristalsis, but I haven't noticed the gum af...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It will not cause any blockage, so please rest assured.[Read More] Swallowed Gum: Should You Worry About Digestive Blockage?
Understanding Post-Meal Bloating: H. Pylori or Functional Dyspepsia?
Helicobacter pylori? Functional dyspepsia?? Others??? Hello Doctor, since February 2023, I have been experiencing a feeling of abdominal bloating in the upper stomach about an hour after meals, which lasts for 4 to 6 hours before returning to normal. I have seen a doctor and unde...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If the bacteria have not been tested, one can proceed with examination or sterilization. If symptoms persist and are still functional in nature, dietary or pharmacological adjustments may be made.[Read More] Understanding Post-Meal Bloating: H. Pylori or Functional Dyspepsia?
Can Taking Medications on an Empty Stomach Cause Issues?
Take the medication before meals? Hello, doctor. I am experiencing discomfort in my stomach and have come for a consultation. Currently, I am taking Dobecon, Dialicon, Unstop, and Gaslon. I usually do not have breakfast, but the instructions for these medications indicate that th...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: These medications themselves do not harm the stomach, so it is acceptable to take them on an empty stomach. However, for pain relievers, it is recommended to take them after meals. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Can Taking Medications on an Empty Stomach Cause Issues?
Understanding Mucus Diarrhea: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Diarrhea with mucus (has seen a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner)? Hello Doctor, :( I had diarrhea like this earlier this year and saw a doctor and took medication, which helped for a while.) I have been experiencing intermittent diarrhea for the past month or two, with ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Possible gastroenteritis or irritable bowel syndrome. For frequent diarrhea, it is recommended to maintain a light diet and avoid spicy and greasy foods. Remember to replenish fluids and electrolytes during diarrhea; severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which may cause electr...[Read More] Understanding Mucus Diarrhea: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help