Effective Treatments for Hepatitis B in Patients with Stomach Cancer
Hepatitis B medications Hello, Dr. Hsu. I have stomach cancer and my weight is on the lower side. My GPT is over 500. What kind of treatment should I undergo? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello, your GPT is over 500, which is considered high. I’m not sure if you have recently undergone an e-antigen test. Do you have the report for the E antibody? Have you also had a test for the hepatitis B virus load, specifically HBV DNA? Additionally, have you been tested for h...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Hepatitis B in Patients with Stomach Cancer
Understanding Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Treatments
Upper abdominal pain? Hello Dr. Chen: I have been experiencing mild pain in my upper abdomen for about two months. I went to the hospital for an abdominal ultrasound, which indicated a slight inflammation of the stomach. I also had liver and gallbladder blood tests that came back...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mr. Abin, 1. The presence of Helicobacter pylori causing gastritis or ulcers needs to be confirmed by endoscopy; therefore, if there is no improvement, endoscopy should be considered. 2. General dyspepsia is typically not related to bacterial infection, and the infection ra...[Read More] Understanding Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Weight Issues: Possible Digestive Absorption Problems
Underweight, suspected gastrointestinal malabsorption? Hello, doctor. I apologize for bothering you, but I have a question I would like to discuss. I have regular bowel movements every day, but sometimes I experience abdominal pain. I eat three meals a day normally, and even when...
Dr. Zhang Siyuan Reply:
To David: Your issue may be related to a metabolic disorder, which is characterized by rapid energy expenditure, rather than a problem with the gastrointestinal system that would cause absorption issues and weight loss. I recommend that you visit an internal medicine clinic for f...[Read More] Understanding Weight Issues: Possible Digestive Absorption Problems
Weight Loss and Diarrhea: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues in Cancer Survivors
Diarrhea accompanied by weight loss? Hello Dr. Chen, I would like to consult you regarding my mother's health issues. Here is a brief overview of her condition: My mother is 58 years old and has a history of breast cancer, for which she underwent bilateral mastectomy and has...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Yali: 1. There is a low correlation with the liver, but regular ultrasound examinations (every 6 months) are still recommended. 2. It is advised to visit a gastroenterology clinic for stool tests and medication, and then consider a colonoscopy. 3. Irritable bowel ...[Read More] Weight Loss and Diarrhea: Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues in Cancer Survivors
Understanding Persistent High Liver Enzymes: Causes and Concerns
The GPT index remains consistently high? The health check revealed that liver enzyme levels have consistently been above 200. I have undergone a self-paid liver examination package, which showed no hepatitis A, B, or C; I have antibodies for hepatitis B, no alcoholic liver diseas...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, 1. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become a leading cause of chronic hepatitis in Western countries, second only to viral hepatitis, and is highly associated with metabolic syndrome, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and insulin resistance...[Read More] Understanding Persistent High Liver Enzymes: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Chronic Constipation: Causes and Solutions
Constipation Long-term constipation has been troubling me... Whenever I have difficulty with bowel movements, I always feel like I can't urinate properly. Even though I drink a lot of water and feel the urge to urinate, I just can't seem to do it. It feels as if somethi...
Dr. You Ligang Reply:
Hello, your difficulty in urination is caused by constipation, so it is important to first improve your bowel movements. Constipation can be classified into two types: "functional constipation," which is chronic and habitual, and "organic constipation," which ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Constipation: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Acid Reflux: Causes, Treatments, and Surgical Options
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Hello Doctor: I have been troubled by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Two months ago, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which revealed a sliding hiatal hernia and mild inflammation at the pylorus. A biopsy was performe...
Dr. You Ligang Reply:
Hello, 1. Since I started experiencing symptoms during this year's Lunar New Year, and I have never had such issues before, I would like to know if surgical treatment can lead to a complete recovery. Laparoscopic surgery is performed by a surgeon using a laparoscope to rep...[Read More] Understanding Acid Reflux: Causes, Treatments, and Surgical Options
Managing Mid-Stage Cirrhosis: Symptoms, Diet, and Care for Patients
I'm sorry, but I need more Hello, I have some questions regarding cirrhosis. Currently, the physician has diagnosed it as moderate cirrhosis, with complications including ascites and elevated bilirubin levels. These symptoms are not experienced by me but by my child at home,...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
1. The patient has cirrhosis with ascites and jaundice. If the patient is unable to communicate, it is important to monitor the amount of ascites by measuring abdominal girth, tracking weight daily, and observing urine output. General management of ascites includes fluid and sodi...[Read More] Managing Mid-Stage Cirrhosis: Symptoms, Diet, and Care for Patients
Improving Digestive Health: Tips for Gaining Weight Effectively
How to improve gastrointestinal function? Hello doctor, my gastrointestinal health is not very good. Besides frequently having diarrhea, I also find it difficult to gain weight. I previously visited Kaohsiung 802 Hospital for a thorough examination, and aside from an endoscopy, a...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. KK: As long as you maintain a balanced diet and increase your caloric and protein intake, there should be no issues with digestion and absorption. The only concern is that you may experience loose stools due to poorly formed stools, which can be managed with medication....[Read More] Improving Digestive Health: Tips for Gaining Weight Effectively
Understanding IBS Symptoms: Is It a Recurrence or Something Else?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Hello Dr. Lin, I previously had issues with irritable bowel syndrome. A little over a week ago, after dinner, I experienced mild pain in my lower left abdomen. Initially, my bowel movements were normal, but later they became mixed with watery stools...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) often experience symptoms including intermittent abdominal pain, diarrhea after meals, and abdominal discomfort. Some may have increased bowel movements, with stools that can be either solid or watery, or may contain mucus. Ther...[Read More] Understanding IBS Symptoms: Is It a Recurrence or Something Else?
Understanding Constipation and Diarrhea: Causes and Solutions
Constipation and diarrhea? Hello Dr. Lin: In the past two weeks, I have experienced constipation for 2-3 days, followed by abdominal pain and diarrhea (watery stools). During the abdominal pain, I felt a bit dizzy and nauseous, and there was a slight bloating sensation. After hav...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. Symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain, considering your age, may be attributed to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is advisable to manage stress levels and pay attention to dietary habits (reduce intake of caffeinated foods and beverage...[Read More] Understanding Constipation and Diarrhea: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Constipation in Teenagers
Abdominal pain and constipation..? Hello Doctor: I am 16 years old and a female. Recently, I started feeling discomfort in my abdomen. Since I have experienced this before, I initially ignored it. However, my flatulence became very foul-smelling, and I had difficulty with bowel m...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: If you experience bloating and changes in bowel habits after eating small amounts of food and water, try not to worry too much. Recently, it's important to control your diet, consume appropriate and easily digestible foods and water, and avoid spicy foods as well as t...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Constipation in Teenagers
Chronic Bloating: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Gastrointestinal Issues
Chronic abdominal bloating Hello Dr. Chen, Many years ago, I suffered from gastric and duodenal ulcers. Since then, I experience gas and abdominal bloating after meals, particularly after consuming meat, legumes, eggs, fermented foods, glutinous rice products, yogurt, and dairy ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Miss Little Stomach King, Based on your description, it appears to be Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Please cooperate with your physician for treatment and management, and adjust your dietary habits accordingly. Additionally, be mindful of any abnormal weight loss or the ...[Read More] Chronic Bloating: Seeking Solutions for Persistent Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Risks, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Gallbladder polyp Dr. Lin: Hello, my husband is a carrier of hepatitis B. He had an abdominal ultrasound yesterday, which showed a gallbladder polyp measuring 0.37 cm. I would like to ask: 1. Since it is a single polyp and not multiple, is there a possibility that it could be mal...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. Most gallbladder polyps are benign, while malignant polyps are generally larger, usually greater than 1 cm, and tend to have an irregular shape, sometimes accompanied by changes in the gallbladder wall. 2. Ultrasound monitoring is the most convenient examination; occasi...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Risks, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Post-Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Follow-Up Care and Common Concerns
Cholecystectomy After undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, it has been almost 8 months. Do I need follow-up examinations? Are there any potential complications? If I need to be examined, what should be checked? Post-surgery, I sometimes experience a dull, tingling, itchy sens...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mr. Chumg Fu: Generally, if there are no specific symptoms, there is no need for a follow-up visit. If you are experiencing loose stools, it is advisable to reduce your intake of oily foods. However, if you do experience discomfort or if your weight continues to decrease, pl...[Read More] Post-Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Follow-Up Care and Common Concerns
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: What You Need to Know
Abnormal liver function tests? Hello Dr. Lin: I just received the results of my military service physical examination from the city office today. It states that my liver enzyme levels are elevated, with SGOT at 58 and SGPT at 84. I checked online, and the normal range is consider...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello A-Min, Although the standard values for GOT and GPT may vary slightly from one hospital to another, they generally do not differ significantly. In our hospital, the standard values for GOT and GPT are below 40. A GPT level of 84 indicates an abnormal liver index, suggesti...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: What You Need to Know
Understanding Esophageal Pain: Insights for Office Workers
Esophagus Hello Dr. Zhang, I am 155 cm tall and work in a computer-related job. I have been suffering from severe back pain for three years and have not found any relief. Currently, I am taking Ultracet (tramadol), Tonec (aceclofenac), and amitriptyline HCl (for about four mont...
Dr. Zhang Siyuan Reply:
To May: Based on your symptom history, the respiratory infection issue has not been completely resolved, and combined with weight loss and hemoptysis, the primary task ahead is to conduct a chest X-ray examination and detailed interpretation to rule out conditions such as asthma,...[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Pain: Insights for Office Workers
Understanding Oily Stools: Causes and Dietary Impacts
Questions about bowel movements? Recently, I have been experiencing oily stools during bowel movements and also when passing gas. I haven't taken any other medications, such as detox or weight loss drugs. Could eating spicy foods cause this? I've only been eating curry ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, Xiao Pei. The presence of oil in your stool can be related to several causes associated with malabsorption. Possible reasons include: 1. Consuming excessively fatty foods leading to poor absorption; 2. Gastrointestinal inflammation resulting in malabsorption; 3. Liver, gal...[Read More] Understanding Oily Stools: Causes and Dietary Impacts
Understanding Gastroscopy: What Conditions Can It Reveal?
Stomach What conditions can be diagnosed through an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy? If someone experiences simple postprandial bloating, what could be the cause? Although it occurs somewhat frequently, there are no other symptoms, the stool is normal, and there is no abdominal ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Monkey: Most likely, it is just indigestion or gastrointestinal dysfunction. If eating smaller, more frequent meals at regular intervals does not improve the situation (especially if there is weight loss), an endoscopy can be performed to rule out rare causes. Changhua ...[Read More] Understanding Gastroscopy: What Conditions Can It Reveal?
Understanding Symptoms: Could It Be Colon Cancer?
No abdominal pain? I would like to ask if there is no visible blood in the stool, but there is blood when wiping after a bowel movement, without any pain in the anus, abdomen, or stomach. The stool is somewhat muddy and a darker yellow-brown color. Bowel movements occur once in t...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Dear Mr. T-Wei: It is not possible to make a definitive diagnosis at this time. You may first undergo a flexible sigmoidoscopy (which is simple and painless) to confirm that there is no cancer, and then continue with medication for monitoring. We can discuss whether to proceed wi...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Could It Be Colon Cancer?