Understanding Gurgling Sounds in the Upper Left Abdomen: Causes and Concerns
Gurgling sounds in the upper left abdomen? Hello Doctor, I am 17 years old. About a month ago, I went to see a gastroenterologist because I was experiencing persistent hiccups that I couldn't relieve, along with a feeling of abdominal bloating. The doctor performed an ultras...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: The color of stool can vary in depth and is related to the types of food consumed and the amount of water intake; it does not always have to be golden yellow, so there is no need to worry excessively. It is recommended to lose weight while also paying attention to a balanc...[Read More] Understanding Gurgling Sounds in the Upper Left Abdomen: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Pale Stools: What They Indicate About Your Health
Pale or nearly white stools? Hello Doctor: For the past two months, I have been experiencing discomfort in my abdomen, often feeling the urge to burp and a sensation of something being stuck in my chest and throat. My bowel movements have been irregular, sometimes constipated and...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely not a biliary or pancreatic issue (which would be associated with jaundice or weight loss), so there is no need to worry excessively.[Read More] Understanding Pale Stools: What They Indicate About Your Health
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: GERD and Related Symptoms Explained
Gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing phlegm stuck in my throat for about two months (from early June until now), along with a sharp pain in my chest and throat. About two weeks ago, I visited an ENT specialist who diagnosed me with gastro...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can start with stomach medication and reduce coffee and sweets to see how it goes; if necessary, an endoscopy can be added.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: GERD and Related Symptoms Explained
Concerns About Taking Lansoprazole Capsules: Safety and Risks Explained
Capsule issues? Hello, doctor. I have gastroesophageal reflux disease, and my doctor prescribed Lansoprazole for me. However, yesterday the capsule accidentally fell on the floor, and due to concerns about the recent pandemic, I was afraid the capsule might be contaminated with v...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It will not cause direct harm, but it may reduce the effectiveness of the medication.[Read More] Concerns About Taking Lansoprazole Capsules: Safety and Risks Explained
Throat Discomfort After Endoscopy: Should I Seek Medical Attention?
I have had an endoscopy before, and while there was improvement, I feel like my throat has been injured? I have noticed that my throat may be injured because I initially had slight stuttering, which has now progressed to frequent pauses and stuttering, along with a sensation of s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can first use reflux medications, and if symptoms persist, you should consult an otolaryngologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Throat Discomfort After Endoscopy: Should I Seek Medical Attention?
Persistent Acid Reflux: Why PPI Treatment May Not Be Working?
If the effectiveness of PPI medications for acid reflux is poor, what should be done? My symptoms include a burning and uncomfortable sensation in the upper abdomen (possibly in the duodenum or stomach), which is most severe when I am fasting. Interestingly, the symptoms are less...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: In addition to medication, dietary habits are also very important. Beverages such as tea (black/green/milk tea), coffee, smoking, alcohol, fried foods, spicy foods, sweets, and chocolate should be considered. Avoid late-night snacks, do not lie down after eating, refrain f...[Read More] Persistent Acid Reflux: Why PPI Treatment May Not Be Working?
Understanding Reduced Appetite: Possible Causes and Concerns
Decreased appetite? On the morning of June 22, I suddenly experienced a dull pain in my entire abdomen before breakfast. After a while, the pain eased a bit, and I managed to eat breakfast. For the next few days, I felt very bloated in my abdomen, sometimes experiencing pain and ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It was mentioned that after bowel movements, the abdomen feels somewhat more comfortable. It is important to first address the issues of fecal impaction and constipation, as these factors can affect appetite and may even lead to symptoms of abdominal bloating and discomfor...[Read More] Understanding Reduced Appetite: Possible Causes and Concerns
Unusual Bowel Movements and Weight Loss: Seeking Gastroenterology Advice
Stool, postprandial borborygmi, weight loss inquiry? I would like to ask the doctor, I had a colonoscopy at the clinic in early May, where three benign polyps were removed. The doctor did not schedule a follow-up appointment, stating that my intestines are very healthy. However, ...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr. Joe, regarding your weight loss and bowel/gurgling issues, you may consult a gastroenterologist. The throat problem could also be related to gastroesophageal reflux, so seeing a gastroenterologist would be appropriate. However, if these issues cannot be resolved, I reco...[Read More] Unusual Bowel Movements and Weight Loss: Seeking Gastroenterology Advice
Understanding the Connection Between Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Heart Palpitations
Recently, I have started to feel my stomach and esophagus pulsating like my heart? Hello Doctor: I am 170 cm tall and weigh 70 kg. About a month ago (on May 26), I woke up in the early morning with palpitations, shortness of breath, and a feeling of bloating in my stomach, so I w...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is advisable to cooperate with the physician for treatment and lifestyle adjustments. If symptoms persist, it is still necessary to visit the hospital to confirm the condition.[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Heart Palpitations
Is Your Throat Burning? Signs of Possible Acid Reflux Explained
Inquire whether it is a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? Hello, doctor. In the past two days, I have frequently felt the need to clear my throat, and the phlegm is colorless. I also often experience belching, especially after meals, and I frequently feel like th...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Dear Ms. CC, You reported that recently you have been experiencing phlegm, frequent burping, and a sensation of phlegm that cannot be cleared from your chest after meals, along with a burning sensation in your throat. You inquired whether this could be a symptom of gastroesophag...[Read More] Is Your Throat Burning? Signs of Possible Acid Reflux Explained
Persistent Hiccups: When to Seek ENT or Psychiatric Help?
Several days of continuous belching (not hiccups or fullness belching)? Hello! Since last Monday, I have been experiencing persistent burping, which feels different from typical gastric burps and is not related to fullness. I have seen two gastroenterologists, who prescribed medi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If gastrointestinal medications are ineffective, a consultation with a psychiatrist or further observation may be necessary.[Read More] Persistent Hiccups: When to Seek ENT or Psychiatric Help?
Understanding GERD: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello, doctor. Last week, I experienced discomfort and pain in my stomach, so I visited a clinic where I was diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). At that time, I indeed felt bloated, had a slight sore throat, and a sour tas...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on your symptoms, it is indeed likely that you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, abdominal pain (gastric pain) may also warrant attention for possible concurrent gastritis or peptic ulcer disease, although the treatment medications are genera...[Read More] Understanding GERD: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Can Acid Reflux Cause Throat Irritation? Understanding Your Symptoms
Gastroesophageal reflux-related issues? In November 2020, I underwent an endoscopy which revealed mild gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with some erosion in the stomach. Recently, I have been experiencing an itchy throat, but I eat normally and do not have a strong urge to ...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Dear Mr. Jun-Wei, In November 2020, you underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy which revealed mild gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with some mucosal erosion in the stomach. Recently, you have experienced a scratchy throat, but you are eating normally and do not hav...[Read More] Can Acid Reflux Cause Throat Irritation? Understanding Your Symptoms
Managing GERD and Esophagitis: Duration of PPI Use and Symptoms Explained
How long does it take for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) to improve when taking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)? What should I do if I experience a bitter taste and acid reflux after stopping PPIs? Hello: In February of this year, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endos...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is classified into four grades (A, B, C, D) based on the extent of esophageal mucosal injury due to gastric acid, according to the Los Angeles Classification. Under the National Health Insurance regulations, grades A and B allow for p...[Read More] Managing GERD and Esophagitis: Duration of PPI Use and Symptoms Explained
Accidentally Swallowed Aluminum Foil: Health Implications and What to Expect
Ingestion of the aluminum foil packaging from medication? Accidentally swallowing the thin aluminum foil from a medication package can cause a slight scratchy sensation in the throat. Generally, if there are no significant symptoms or discomfort, it is likely that the foil will p...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Hello Mr. Zhong: You reported accidentally ingesting a thin aluminum foil from the packaging, and you experienced a slight prickling sensation in your throat when swallowing. Generally, aluminum foil is not absorbed by the body and will be excreted in the feces. However, due to i...[Read More] Accidentally Swallowed Aluminum Foil: Health Implications and What to Expect
Managing Gastroesophageal Reflux and Stomach Pain After Herbal Treatment
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Dear Deputy Director, I have been taking traditional Chinese medicine to improve my headaches and gastroesophageal reflux issues. However, after starting the treatment, I experienced stomach pain and severe gastroesophageal reflux. The Chin...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Please visit a gastroenterologist for treatment and reduce intake of sweet, acidic, coffee, and tea.[Read More] Managing Gastroesophageal Reflux and Stomach Pain After Herbal Treatment
Feeling a Lump in Your Throat After Eating Steak: When to See a Doctor?
Eating steak without chewing thoroughly and swallowing large pieces can lead to a sensation of something being stuck in the esophagus? After eating the last piece of meat, I took big bites and swallowed without chewing much. Now, five hours have passed, and I feel a tightness in ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: After swallowing a large piece of meat, there is a sensation of something stuck in the esophagus. Generally, esophageal foreign bodies should be addressed within 24 hours. If there is difficulty breathing, bleeding, fever, or chest pain, seek medical attention immediately!...[Read More] Feeling a Lump in Your Throat After Eating Steak: When to See a Doctor?
Managing Stomach Ulcers: PPI Side Effects and B12 Deficiency
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for gastric ulcers? Hello, doctor! I would like to ask about my condition. I have a stomach ulcer and have been taking proton pump inhibitors for nearly a month. I have noticed that my lips are very dry and cracked every day, and my throat feels dry ...
Dr. Zhang Kebin Reply:
Hello Jason: You inquired about your stomach ulcer treatment with a proton pump inhibitor for nearly a month, but you are experiencing dry and cracked lips daily, as well as a dry throat. You are wondering if this indicates a vitamin B12 deficiency and whether you should suppleme...[Read More] Managing Stomach Ulcers: PPI Side Effects and B12 Deficiency
Understanding Frequent Belching: GERD or Gastroenteritis?
Frequent belching? Hello Dr. Chen, about three months ago, I started experiencing throat swelling, a sensation of mucus, and chest tightness (which is more severe during the day and slightly alleviated after exercise or upon waking). I visited an ENT specialist who diagnosed me w...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It may be caused by reflux; reduce intake of acidic and sweet foods, coffee, and tea. Avoid lying flat after a heavy meal, and medication may be necessary. If symptoms worsen, an endoscopy may be needed for confirmation.[Read More] Understanding Frequent Belching: GERD or Gastroenteritis?
Understanding Abdominal Bloating and Throat Issues: Which Specialist to See?
For abdominal bloating and throat issues, you should consult a gastroenterologist for the abdominal symptoms and an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) for the throat problems? Hello, doctor. 1. For the past couple of months, I have been experiencing bloating and significant belc...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The initial assessment suggests that it is likely a peristaltic digestion issue. Further discussion with the attending physician regarding treatment is recommended, along with patient cooperation for management, and continued follow-up is advised.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Bloating and Throat Issues: Which Specialist to See?