Understanding Digestive Health: The Effects of Sour Plums and Skin Tags
Bowel movement Hello, doctor. 1. I bought regular sour plums (not for weight loss or medicinal purposes), and I find that my bowel movements are very smooth, about three times a day. Is it normal that my body seems to be more sensitive to plums? Is it good or bad to continue ea...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Reply: Hello, 1. If it is indeed helpful, you may continue taking it. 2. Yes. If you experience bleeding or pain, please consult a colorectal surgeon. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Zhi-Ping, Internal Medicine.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Health: The Effects of Sour Plums and Skin Tags
Does Drinking Wine Before Bed Help Relieve Constipation?
Regarding constipation..? I have heard many celebrities say that drinking a small glass of red wine, white wine, or grape wine before bed can help with smooth bowel movements the next day. Is this really effective? Also, when feeling hungry at night, people often say to eat fruit...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Response: Hello, regarding the claim that drinking red wine aids in bowel movements, I personally have not heard of it and am unsure of its effectiveness. Fruits also contain sugars, which are carbohydrates, but in lower amounts compared to high-calorie starchy foods like bread a...[Read More] Does Drinking Wine Before Bed Help Relieve Constipation?
Understanding Yellow Oily Discharge from the Anus: Causes and Concerns
Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology Department I would like to ask about a recent issue. Every time I go to the bathroom, I notice a yellow, oily substance dripping from my anus. It looks like oil, but there is no pain or discomfort. This has been happening for a week now. I would...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, you can visit the outpatient department of the hospital for a stool test to determine if it is indeed "steatorrhea." The causes of steatorrhea may be related to diet (for example, some people have consumed oily fish for weight loss), medications (such as orlistat...[Read More] Understanding Yellow Oily Discharge from the Anus: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Gastric Sleeve and Bypass: Key Differences and Costs
Gastric Sleeve Surgery & Gastric Bypass Surgery 1. What is the difference between gastric sleeve surgery and gastric bypass surgery? 2. Are there any risks associated with these procedures? 3. Are these surgeries covered by insurance or do they require out-of-pocket expen...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, your BMI (Body Mass Index) is calculated to be 30, which indicates that you are somewhat overweight, but it is not yet at the level where bariatric surgery or endoscopic procedures are necessary. These surgical options are effective but have significant impacts and a chall...[Read More] Understanding Gastric Sleeve and Bypass: Key Differences and Costs
Understanding Lower Body Obesity: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Issues
Lower body obesity Hello Dr. Chen: My height is 153 cm, and my weight has reached 52 to 53 kg, which I believe qualifies as obesity. I have been struggling with severe constipation for a long time! There are times when I go a week without a bowel movement! During those times, I r...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, based on your information, your BMI (Body Mass Index) is actually not high, approximately 22.3. Generally, a BMI greater than 24 is considered overweight. However, you are experiencing constipation, which may lead to abdominal bloating and discomfort. I recommend drinking ...[Read More] Understanding Lower Body Obesity: Causes and Solutions for Digestive Issues
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Abdominal pain? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing abdominal pain for about two years now, specifically in the area just below the left rib cage, aligned with the lowest part of the central rib cage. Initially, the pain would occur after overeating, but now it happens every t...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, under normal circumstances, this area contains the stomach and intestines. If you continue to experience pain and have ruled out abdominal muscle pain, overexertion, or sports injuries, it is recommended that you visit a hospital for an abdominal ultrasound and gastroscopy...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Understanding Milk Intolerance: Symptoms and Gastrointestinal Health
Cannot drink milk? Doctor, I cannot drink milk in the morning; if I do, I either have diarrhea or feel nauseous, and my stomach becomes very uncomfortable. However, after noon, if I drink milk, I mostly just experience diarrhea without feeling nauseous. After a few episodes of ac...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, you may be experiencing lactose intolerance, which is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme that breaks down lactose in the intestines, leading to malabsorption and diarrhea. It is recommended that you avoid dairy products, including fresh milk, milk powder, and cheese. Alt...[Read More] Understanding Milk Intolerance: Symptoms and Gastrointestinal Health
Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Dietary Tips
Gastric ulcer Gastric ulcers are caused by an imbalance between the protective factors of the stomach lining and the aggressive factors that can damage it. Common causes include infection with Helicobacter pylori, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ex...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, the development of gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers can be attributed to various factors, including excessive gastric acid secretion, Helicobacter pylori infection, medications, significant illnesses or injuries, burns, and emotional stress, all of which may contribute t...[Read More] Understanding Stomach Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Dietary Tips
Managing High Liver Enzymes in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients: Treatment Options
The disappearance of the E antigen and persistently elevated liver enzymes? Hello Dr. Hsu: I am a patient with hepatitis B, without hepatitis C, and I do not drink alcohol. I have been receiving liver protection medication from the hospital for the past five to six years, but my ...
Dr. Xu Jinchuan Reply:
Hello lbkth888! 1. Your condition can be considered for treatment with long-acting interferon, which has shown good results. However, as you mentioned, your e-antigen is negative, indicating that you are a patient with a mutated strain of hepatitis B. In this situation, the e-a...[Read More] Managing High Liver Enzymes in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients: Treatment Options
Understanding Frequent Vomiting After Dinner: Possible Causes and Solutions
Occasional vomiting? My girlfriend has been experiencing frequent episodes of vomiting, almost every day after dinner. She insists that she is fine, so I would like to consult a physician to see if there might be some underlying condition causing her recurrent vomiting. She is no...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, frequent vomiting can have many causes, such as lesions in the stomach, duodenum, or esophagus, or liver disease leading to nausea and vomiting. Additionally, issues in the brain that cause increased intracranial pressure can also result in severe vomiting, often seen in p...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Vomiting After Dinner: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pressure: Possible Causes and Concerns
There is a feeling of pressure in the lower left abdomen? In September, my routine health check showed no abnormalities in my stool. Recently, I tested my stool again, which showed no occult blood, but there were red blood cells present. Could this indicate a tumor? I have not ex...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, the stool test shows no occult blood reaction, but there are red blood cells present. This could indicate minor bleeding near the anal area, such as from hemorrhoids. Overall, it seems less likely to be a sign of colorectal cancer. However, if you continue to experience pa...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pressure: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Risks, Size Guidelines, and Dietary Impact
Gallbladder polyp During a liver ultrasound examination at the hospital, a 0.4 cm polyp was unexpectedly found in the gallbladder. What issues could this cause? At what size should it be removed? What are the possible causes? Can dietary changes help it disappear? Additionally, m...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, regarding gallbladder polyps, the exact reason why they develop is currently unexplained, but some individuals do form them. Generally, polyps smaller than 1 centimeter are considered benign. Regular abdominal ultrasounds (approximately every six months to a year) are reco...[Read More] Understanding Gallbladder Polyps: Risks, Size Guidelines, and Dietary Impact
Understanding Unusual Left Lower Abdominal Sensations: Causes and Concerns
There is a strange sensation in the lower left abdomen? I saw many symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome on the website that seem to match almost perfectly. However, I also have a strange feeling in my lower left abdomen, like a bloating sensation, and when lying down, it feels so...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, the percussion of the abdomen shows a solid mass, which indicates that it is filled with something. It could be a tumor, or it might just be the intestines filled with contents. However, tumors are usually associated with specific symptoms such as abdominal pain, abnormal ...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Left Lower Abdominal Sensations: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Chronic Stomach Issues: A Guide for Concerned Partners
Hello, doctor... I would like to ask why my husband's stomach condition is so difficult to treat? Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you with my concerns. We are a lesbian couple who have been together for four years, currently both working in the Hsinchu Science Park,...
Dr. Su Baojia Reply:
1. Gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers can be completely cured and may not recur. However, if they remain untreated, they can eventually lead to obstruction in the duodenum. 2. Whether a gastric ulcer can transform into gastric cancer can only be confirmed through pathological e...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Stomach Issues: A Guide for Concerned Partners
Persistent Liver Enzyme Levels: Exploring Further Treatment Options
Liver enzymes have not been decreasing? Hello, doctor. My aunt's liver enzyme levels have not been decreasing. She has tried various methods, including medication and dietary control. What other options are available now? Should we conduct further tests to identify the under...
Dr. Su Baojia Reply:
If liver enzyme levels do not decrease, it may indicate fatty liver disease. Therefore, it is necessary to check if triglyceride levels are elevated and whether there is an issue with overweight. Additionally, an abdominal ultrasound should be performed to confirm the diagnosis.[Read More] Persistent Liver Enzyme Levels: Exploring Further Treatment Options
Struggling to Gain Weight: Seeking Gastroenterology Advice
I want to gain weight? Hello, I am Xiao P from Kaohsiung. I have been troubled by a persistent issue: I have difficulty gaining weight. My height is 181 cm, but I only weigh 60 kg, and my weight has remained at 60 kg for a long time. I consider myself to have a good appetite, yet...
Dr. Su Baojia Reply:
If you are underweight, it is important to consider whether there are any gastrointestinal issues, as the gastrointestinal tract can affect nutrient absorption. Additionally, it is advisable to check for hyperthyroidism, as this condition can also lead to weight loss. Therefore, ...[Read More] Struggling to Gain Weight: Seeking Gastroenterology Advice
Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Constipation, Hemorrhoids, and More
Gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms? Hello Dr. Chen, I am 22 years old and have been experiencing habitual constipation since I was 17.8 years old. I often go 3 to 4 days, or even a week, without feeling the urge to have a bowel movement. I have previously tried sitting on the ...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, regarding your difficulty with bowel movements, it is advisable to increase your intake of fiber-rich foods, drink plenty of water, and make lifestyle adjustments to reduce stress and busyness. The small protrusions near the anal area could be polyps, but they may also be ...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Constipation, Hemorrhoids, and More
Struggling with Chronic Constipation: A Teen's Health Dilemma
I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that? Hello. I am a 15-year-old who suffers from chronic constipation. I have been experiencing this issue since October, which has made me hesitant to eat because food tends to accumulate easily, and I feel full very quickly. I might ...
Dr. Su Baojia Reply:
It is best to consult a gastroenterologist regarding your symptoms. A barium enema may be performed to check for any underlying conditions, and then treatment can be tailored accordingly. As for your regular diet, it is advisable to consume more vegetables and fluids, and to take...[Read More] Struggling with Chronic Constipation: A Teen's Health Dilemma
Understanding Chronic Constipation: Causes, Treatments, and Solutions
Chronic constipation I have had a habit of constipation since I was 15 years old, but this symptom only started in October of this year. I didn't have this issue before, and now I find it difficult to have a bowel movement. I have taken three different medications (including...
Dr. Chen Zhiping Reply:
Hello, constipation is indeed a frustrating issue. Some cases are simply caused by poor dietary and bowel habits, while others may indicate underlying gastrointestinal problems. Chronic constipation can sometimes remain unexplained despite numerous tests, and may be classified as...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Constipation: Causes, Treatments, and Solutions
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation and Bowel Health
Gastrointestinal issues? Hello, doctor: For the past three months, I have frequently felt the urge to have a bowel movement, but I struggle to pass stool and have to exert a lot of effort to do so. When I do manage to pass stool, it resembles small pellets, similar to sheep dropp...
Dr. Su Baojia Reply:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is not age-dependent. Your symptoms are more indicative of IBS. If you are apprehensive about undergoing a colonoscopy, you may consider starting with a barium enema.[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation and Bowel Health