Understanding Increased Appetite: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help
Increased appetite? My friend (female) has recently experienced a significant increase in her appetite, almost eating two lunch boxes at each meal. This is unusual for her, and she claims she doesn't know why she feels constantly hungry and gets hungry quickly. During this p...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The reasons for increased appetite, binge eating, and weight gain include pregnancy, endocrine disorders (such as diabetes and thyroid dysfunction), and psychological issues. You may consult a family medicine specialist or a general internist. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, ...[Read More] Understanding Increased Appetite: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help
Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Concerns
The abdomen has become distended and firm? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have noticed that my abdomen is getting larger, almost as if I were pregnant, but I am not pregnant. I have regular bowel movements every day, and I do not experience any abdominal pain. In the past, my abdomen ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Based on your height and weight, you are not considered obese. A distended abdomen after meals is commonly due to functional gastrointestinal disorders. Dietary factors, psychological factors, a history of chronic diseases, acute metabolic disturbances, and medications can...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Bowel Issues: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Bowel movement issues Hello Dr. Lin, for the past four days, I have been experiencing a sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation. My usual frequency of 1-2 bowel movements has increased to about 3-4 times a day, with each bowel movement producing less stool than usual. About two ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Abnormal bowel movements may be caused by factors such as recent dietary changes, gastrointestinal inflammation, or irritable bowel syndrome. It is advisable to pay attention to your diet and avoid spicy, overly acidic, overly sweet, greasy foods, and those containing caff...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Sharp pain in the left abdomen? Hello Doctor: I don't know why I've been experiencing sharp pain frequently on the left side, about a palm's width below my navel. Sometimes I also feel pain in the upper left abdomen or the lower right abdomen. The pain lasts only a...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Lower abdominal pain can be caused by gastrointestinal diseases, urinary tract issues, and neuromuscular disorders. If the pain is intermittent, it may indicate gastrointestinal problems, which could be functional (such as irritable bowel syndrome) or organic in nature. It...[Read More] Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Chronic Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain: What Tests Should You Consider?
I often experience diarrhea and abdominal pain? I have been experiencing diarrhea symptoms for 6 years, often accompanied by abdominal cramps that come and go. Sometimes I have watery stools, and other times they are soft and long. The cramps occur in waves and are not necessaril...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Your symptoms of recurrent abdominal pain and diarrhea for many years may indicate Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder that leads to changes in bowel habits. Various factors such as diet, lifestyle, and stress can trigger IBS episo...[Read More] Chronic Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain: What Tests Should You Consider?
Blood in Stool: Understanding Gastrointestinal Health Concerns
Blood in the stool? I have been experiencing gastrointestinal issues for over two months. My recent health check report indicated that everything is normal except for elevated total bilirubin levels (CEA is normal). However, this afternoon, I noticed blood in my stool; the blood ...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Blood in the stool, when accompanied by no anal pain, is mostly due to hemorrhoidal bleeding. If blood in the stool causes anal pain, it is likely due to anal fissures. Occasional blood in the stool should raise concerns about hemorrhoids first, followed by tumors (polyps or canc...[Read More] Blood in Stool: Understanding Gastrointestinal Health Concerns
Understanding Oily Stools: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Oily stools I consulted a doctor a few days ago due to diarrhea, which improved the next day but changed to soft stools and clay-colored oil. I also noticed oil being expelled with gas. The doctor diagnosed me with enteritis, but after two days of medication, there has been no im...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Abnormal fat absorption can lead to fatty stools. Small intestine diseases (such as infections, malabsorption, or lymphatic obstruction) or pancreatic diseases (such as pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer) can cause excessive fat in the stool. If the amount is significant an...[Read More] Understanding Oily Stools: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Your Baby's Abdominal Sounds: When to Seek Help
Abdominal issues in infants..? Our baby has been making a sound like water sloshing in his abdomen since he was 3.4 months old, regardless of whether he has just had milk. He is now one and a half years old, and every time we pick him up, the sloshing sound still occurs. Is this ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, I would like to consult a pediatrician regarding the issue of pyloric stenosis in the stomach. Should we be concerned about any signs of low body weight or vomiting? Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui from Internal Medicine.[Read More] Understanding Your Baby's Abdominal Sounds: When to Seek Help
Can Long-Term Digestive Issues Affect Heart Health?
Chronic gastrointestinal issues can potentially impact heart health. Conditions such as chronic inflammation, malnutrition, and stress associated with gastrointestinal disorders may contribute to cardiovascular problems. Additionally, certain gastrointestinal diseases can lead to...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, A-Qun: For the younger population, most do not have severe illnesses. If there are no obvious symptoms like weight loss, many can see improvements with medication and lifestyle adjustments. Please be patient and seek medical care. Changhua Hospital cares about your health....[Read More] Can Long-Term Digestive Issues Affect Heart Health?
Understanding Loss of Appetite: Insights for Busy Professionals
Loss of appetite Hello Dr. Tsai, I am a busy working professional who has been drinking alcohol for many years. For the past six months, I have been experiencing a loss of appetite, and alcohol has become difficult to consume. I often feel nauseous, and around noon, I experience ...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
The term "appetite" refers to the physiological need to eat. When this need diminishes or even disappears, it is referred to as loss of appetite. Simply put, it means a lack of desire to eat. So, who is more likely to experience loss of appetite? Generally, office worke...[Read More] Understanding Loss of Appetite: Insights for Busy Professionals
Understanding Digestive Issues: From Constipation to Diarrhea and Throat Discomfort
Diarrhea and a scratchy throat? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing constipation for a long time (about six to seven years), often going three to four days without a bowel movement, followed by one or two days of frequent stools. However, in the past month, I have not only bee...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: Anxiety can also lead to gastrointestinal sensitivity and discomfort. If the symptoms persist without improvement, please seek treatment at an outpatient clinic. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: From Constipation to Diarrhea and Throat Discomfort
Managing Coexisting Hepatitis B and Ulcerative Colitis: Treatment and Dietary Guidance
What are the treatment and management options for hepatitis B and ulcerative colitis? I am simultaneously suffering from two diseases. In 1999, I had my first episode of ulcerative colitis, which recurred at the end of 2001. Both episodes improved with treatment. At the end of 20...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello SHL: Although there is no direct correlation, corticosteroids used for treatment can affect the onset of hepatitis viruses. Could you consult with a physician experienced in colitis on how to use medications that will not impact hepatitis B, while also managing hepatitis B ...[Read More] Managing Coexisting Hepatitis B and Ulcerative Colitis: Treatment and Dietary Guidance
How Soon After Appendectomy Can You Resume Intense Exercise?
How long after an appendectomy can one engage in vigorous exercise? Hello Dr. Tsai, I had an emergency appendectomy in mid-May this year, and the doctor said it went very smoothly with successful wound closure. After resting for a week, I returned to school. For the first three ...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
The pain receptors in the human body are free nerve endings. When an injury occurs, it results in cell damage, which releases certain substances that stimulate the free nerve endings, leading to the sensation of pain. Additionally, the sensitivity to pain around the wound increas...[Read More] How Soon After Appendectomy Can You Resume Intense Exercise?
Understanding Recent Stomach Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Recently, I have been experiencing stomach pain? Hello, I have been experiencing stomach pain lately and have a habit of eating late-night snacks, consuming amounts similar to my main meals. Recently, I often drink iced tea (sweetened) and iced yogurt on an empty stomach. I have ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. Your symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux raise the suspicion of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is related to dietary habits; late-night snacks, fried high-fat foods, spicy foods, and being overweight can all affect the lower esophageal sphincter, leadi...[Read More] Understanding Recent Stomach Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Identifying Unusual Objects in Stool: Possible Causes and Concerns
I found something unusual during bowel movement? Hello Doctor: Today, I noticed a long object about ten to fifteen centimeters in length that was the same color as my stool during a bowel movement. I'm not sure what it is; could it be a sign of ascariasis? Until now, I have ...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: If the linear objects are moving, they may be intestinal parasites, and it is recommended to take an anthelmintic medication. If they are not moving, they could simply be food residues. Ascaris lumbricoides are white and typically do not pass with stool. If there is no bow...[Read More] Identifying Unusual Objects in Stool: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Digestive Issues: A Guide for Concerned Family Members
Is there a problem with the intestines? Dear Doctor: My mother is 57 years old and has had difficulty with bowel movements since she was young. She cannot have a regular bowel movement at the same time every day. Over ten years ago, she underwent surgery for hemorrhoids. In the p...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: If constipation has persisted for over a decade without symptoms such as rectal bleeding, weight loss, or anemia, it is likely due to functional constipation caused by abnormal colonic motility. Insufficient lipid intake is not likely to cause difficulty in bowel movements...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: A Guide for Concerned Family Members
Chronic Diarrhea: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
What should I do if I have persistent diarrhea? Hello, Dr. Lin! I have been experiencing diarrhea for over a year, but it's not daily. However, I have episodes every two to three days (when it's better), and every time I eat, I get stomach pain and rush to the bathroom!...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. There are many causes of diarrhea, including dietary factors (such as unclean or greasy foods), intestinal inflammation, and the presence of growths in the intestines (such as polyps or tumors), as well as biliary and pancreatic diseases. Early-stage cancer may not pres...[Read More] Chronic Diarrhea: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Intermittent Digestive Issues: Causes and Solutions
Intermittent dyspepsia Hello, doctor. I have two questions to ask you: A. For the past month, I have frequently experienced bloating. The symptoms include feeling full after eating just a little, and sometimes if I eat a bit more, my stomach feels very distended, and I feel nau...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: 1. If there is no weight loss, anemia, or gastrointestinal bleeding, and the symptoms fluctuate, it is most likely functional dyspepsia. I recommend that you relax, avoid irritating and hard-to-digest foods, temporarily refrain from drinking milk, and engage in more phys...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Digestive Issues: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Digestive Issues: Weight Loss, Abdominal Pain, and Nutrient Absorption
Question I am very thin and no matter how much I eat, I don't gain weight. Could this be due to poor gastrointestinal health? I often experience stomach pain and diarrhea, and my skin appears yellow. My breasts also haven't developed; could this be a result of poor nutr...
Dr. Yuan Hongdao Reply:
Hello: There are many possible causes for poor absorption, including high stress, chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, and issues with the digestive system, liver, kidneys, heart, or endocrine system. It is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Sincerely, Dr. Yuan Hongdao, In...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Weight Loss, Abdominal Pain, and Nutrient Absorption
Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Solutions for a Sedentary Lifestyle
Frequent abdominal bloating? Hello Doctor: After being transferred to an administrative position last year, I have been sitting at work every day and lacking exercise. I have started to feel bloated in my abdomen, and sometimes I experience constipation. Could this be due to a la...
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Dear Mr. Chuo, Thank you for your letter. A proper diet and regular exercise each week not only help maintain body shape but also benefit the function of various bodily systems. Regarding your description, chronic bloating and constipation can lead to the accumulation of fecal m...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Bloating: Causes and Solutions for a Sedentary Lifestyle