Understanding Bloating: Signs of Serious Gastrointestinal Issues
Abdominal bloating? Doctor, I have recently been experiencing significant abdominal bloating and a loss of appetite. I have bowel movements every two to three days, and some of the stool is dark. Occasionally, I feel nauseous. What are the warning signs of stomach cancer, colon c...
Dr. Yang Peizhen Reply:
Hello: The abdomen is very bloated and there is some dark-colored stool, which is usually caused by constipation leading to excessive fecal matter. The initial portion of the stool tends to be darker in color. The likelihood of young people developing colorectal cancer is very lo...[Read More] Understanding Bloating: Signs of Serious Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Black Stool: Causes and Concerns for Digestive Health
Melena Hello Dr. Yang: I am 157 cm tall and weigh 46 kg. I have a good appetite, yet I cannot gain weight, and I appear thin, but my abdomen is quite large. Almost every day, about an hour after breakfast, I feel the urge to have a bowel movement, and sometimes I go three times a...
Dr. Yang Peizhen Reply:
Hello: Black stools usually indicate upper gastrointestinal bleeding, most commonly originating from the stomach or duodenum. However, it is essential to first confirm whether there is indeed bleeding, as certain foods can also cause black stools (such as eating blood-tinged meat...[Read More] Understanding Black Stool: Causes and Concerns for Digestive Health
Understanding Hepatitis C: Treatment Options and Costs Explained
Hepatitis C Hello Doctor: My brother had hepatitis B when he was a student, with liver enzyme levels close to 100. A few months ago, while serving in the military, he underwent tests at the Tri-Service General Hospital in Taipei and found that he no longer has hepatitis B but now...
Dr. Yang Peizhen Reply:
Hello! Your brother may be a carrier of Hepatitis B, and previously, due to the lack of testing for Hepatitis C, it was mistakenly believed to be only Hepatitis B; or Hepatitis C could be a new infection (which is less likely). The most important issue is how to determine which t...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis C: Treatment Options and Costs Explained
Understanding Hepatitis B and C: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Costs in Taiwan
Liver Hello Doctor: My brother had hepatitis B when he was a student, with liver enzyme levels close to 100. A few months ago, while serving in the military, he underwent tests at the Tri-Service General Hospital in Taipei and found that he no longer has hepatitis B but has hepat...
Dr. Yang Peizhen Reply:
Hello! Your brother may be a carrier of Hepatitis B and could potentially have Hepatitis C, as he was previously not tested for Hepatitis C and mistakenly thought he only had Hepatitis B; or it is possible that Hepatitis C is newly acquired (though this is less likely). The most ...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B and C: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Costs in Taiwan
Understanding Yellow Oily Stool: Causes and Gastrointestinal Concerns
Why do I keep experiencing oily stools? I haven't had a bowel movement in the past few days, but I've been passing deep yellow oily fluid. I'm unsure what issue my gastrointestinal system might be experiencing.
Dr. Yang Peizhen Reply:
Hello: Passing deep yellow oily stools usually indicates a problem with the digestion of fats in the intestines, with the most common cause being enteritis. There are many potential causes of enteritis, including viruses and bacteria, and it is important to consider whether other...[Read More] Understanding Yellow Oily Stool: Causes and Gastrointestinal Concerns
Do I Need Liver Function Tests? Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
Liver issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my situation. Previously, I bought weight loss pills after seeing them on TV, but my weight did not decrease at that time. However, my weight has since dropped from 56 kg to 48 kg. Last year, I spent almost the entire year dea...
Dr. Xu Ruihong Reply:
Unexplained weight loss is not necessarily a liver issue, but it is important to consult a physician for a thorough examination. Since you live in Changhua, you should be more familiar with the trustworthy hospitals in your area than I am.[Read More] Do I Need Liver Function Tests? Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
Can Gallbladder Removal Qualify for Military Exemption?
Is it possible to be exempt from military service after gallbladder removal? Hello Dr. Yang, I would like to inquire about a military service issue. My boyfriend underwent a cholecystectomy due to acute cholecystitis in Taoyuan six to seven years ago and spent over a month in the...
Dr. Yang Peizhen Reply:
Hello: Your boyfriend's symptoms may be attributed to "post-cholecystectomy syndrome," but I cannot confirm whether it falls under the category of exemptions. Generally, it is advisable to avoid oily and sugary foods, as emotional stress can also have an impact. If...[Read More] Can Gallbladder Removal Qualify for Military Exemption?
Understanding Bowel Resection Surgery for Weight Loss: Is It Right for You?
Regarding gastrointestinal resection surgery? I have a long-standing habit of trying to lose weight, but despite numerous attempts, I have not been able to reach my ideal weight. Although I know that many hospitals offer weight loss programs and clinics, I am not interested in th...
Dr. Yang Peizhen Reply:
Hello! Typically, colorectal surgery or gastric partitioning surgery is performed on patients with severe obesity (usually weighing over 100 kilograms) who have been unable to lose weight through dietary control or exercise. Rapid weight loss can lead to maladaptive physiological...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Resection Surgery for Weight Loss: Is It Right for You?
Struggling with Binge Eating and Purging: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
I have abnormal weight loss? I have developed a habit of self-induced vomiting; as soon as I finish eating and feel any fullness in my stomach, I will make myself vomit. If I don't vomit, I feel very angry and upset. However, I have recently found it increasingly difficult t...
Dr. Xu Ruihong Reply:
Your situation seems less like a gastrointestinal issue. I recommend that you consult a psychiatrist to discuss your condition.[Read More] Struggling with Binge Eating and Purging: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Understanding the Dangers of Bulimia: Health Risks and Solutions
Improper weight loss methods? I have been using vomiting as a method to lose weight for some time now, but recently I have noticed that I am experiencing frequent burping after I vomit. This never happened before. It seems to have become a habit; whenever I eat, I feel the urge t...
Dr. Xu Ruihong Reply:
Your situation seems less like a gastrointestinal issue. I recommend that you consult a psychiatrist to discuss your condition. Chronic vomiting may lead to esophageal ulcers.[Read More] Understanding the Dangers of Bulimia: Health Risks and Solutions
Understanding Bloating and Constipation: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
My condition? I often notice that my abdomen (from below the chest to the lower abdomen) protrudes more than my chest when viewed from the side. I'm a girl, and at 163 cm and 52 kg, I don't consider myself overweight, but I find this very unattractive. Additionally, I s...
Dr. Xu Ruihong Reply:
Regarding body shape issues, I may not be able to provide a satisfactory answer, but localized exercises might help. As for bowel movement issues, in addition to increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables and exercising, staying well-hydrated is also very important. Aim to h...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Constipation: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Understanding A.C.D.E Hepatitis: Types, Symptoms, and Treatment
What is A.C.D.E type hepatitis? A.C.D.E hepatitis refers to the different types of viral hepatitis caused by various hepatitis viruses. Here’s a brief overview of each type: - **Hepatitis A (HAV)**: This is a highly contagious virus that primarily spreads through the fecal-oral ...
Dr. Xu Ruihong Reply:
Hepatitis A is transmitted through the feces of infected individuals, primarily via contaminated food or water. The incubation period is approximately three to five weeks. Symptoms are often mild in children, while adolescents and adults may experience more pronounced symptoms su...[Read More] Understanding A.C.D.E Hepatitis: Types, Symptoms, and Treatment
Understanding Enzymes for Digestive Health and Weight Management
Regarding the consumption of enzymes for bowel cleansing? Hello Dr. Hsu: I seem to have a tendency to retain water. I am 155 cm tall and weigh 53 kg. I often feel bloated in my abdomen and lower abdomen, but my bowel movements are relatively normal. However, I always feel like I ...
Dr. Xu Ruihong Reply:
Issues with bowel movements should consider medication as a last resort. It is advisable to consume more fruits and vegetables to aid in stool formation; regular exercise can promote gastrointestinal motility. Maintaining a routine of going to bed early and waking up early is als...[Read More] Understanding Enzymes for Digestive Health and Weight Management
Navigating Hepatitis C Treatment: Options, Costs, and Lifestyle Considerations
Hepatitis C treatment Hello, doctors. I have been suffering from liver disease for a long time. Five years ago, a blood test revealed that I had both hepatitis B and C viruses. A month later, I went to a Christian hospital for further testing, and it confirmed only hepatitis C. S...
Dr. Yang Peizhen Reply:
Hello! First of all, it must be emphasized that hepatitis C is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids, and is fundamentally unrelated to diet. Chronic hepatitis C has a high rate of viral mutation, which makes treatment outcomes less than ideal. Currently, the most effective...[Read More] Navigating Hepatitis C Treatment: Options, Costs, and Lifestyle Considerations
Understanding Fluctuations in Body Fat Percentage After Aloe Vera Juice
Body fat percentage Hello Dr. Hsieh, My body fat percentage was as high as 42%. Recently, after taking aloe vera juice, my body fat percentage has significantly decreased. I would like to ask why my body fat percentage drops to 30-35% after meals with aloe vera juice, but rises...
Dr. Xie Wenhuai Reply:
Aloe vera has diuretic properties, so consuming aloe vera can lead to weight loss due to water loss. However, the fundamental approach to weight loss still involves reducing caloric intake and increasing physical activity. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Fluctuations in Body Fat Percentage After Aloe Vera Juice
Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help
Please help me clarify? Hello: About six months ago, my upper abdomen started to enlarge. I initially thought it might be due to drinking alcohol, but I've noticed that my appetite is not as large as before, yet I easily feel bloated and experience some dull pain. The odor o...
Dr. Lü Shaoren Reply:
Hello Mr. Sheng: Abdominal bloating may be related to gastrointestinal issues or ascites. Have you experienced any weight gain or loss? Do you have a loss of appetite? It is advisable to have both gastrointestinal and liver examinations. You should schedule an appointment with a ...[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help
Understanding Bloating: Causes and Solutions for Upper Abdominal Distension
Regarding bloating? I feel that my upper abdomen is quite distended, and I'm wondering if it could be due to bloating. I had a health checkup before, and they mentioned that I have bloating, so I’m wondering if this could be the cause.
Dr. Xu Ruihong Reply:
It is not possible to make a diagnosis based solely on your simple statement. If there are no issues with being overweight, then the possibility of bloating should certainly be considered.[Read More] Understanding Bloating: Causes and Solutions for Upper Abdominal Distension
Struggling to Gain Weight? Tips for Improving Your Appetite and Nutrition
I'm too thin..? Hello, doctor. I am 19 years old, about 175 cm tall, but I only weigh around 54 kg, not even 55. I feel that I am quite underweight. However, I can't seem to gain weight. Is it because I have poor absorption? Are there any methods to help me gain weight ...
Dr. Xu Ruihong Reply:
Actually, as long as you are healthy, it's not necessary to be overly concerned about being too thin. You can also engage in weight training to increase your muscle mass.[Read More] Struggling to Gain Weight? Tips for Improving Your Appetite and Nutrition
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Adults
A long-standing issue? At 21 years old, with a height of 170 cm and a weight of 65 kg, I seem to be experiencing a trend of weight gain. 1. Constipation: This symptom started intermittently at the beginning of last year and became severe in March of this year, often resulting i...
Dr. Yang Peizhen Reply:
(1) Based on the symptoms you described, your issue appears to be related to gastrointestinal dysfunction, commonly referred to as dyspepsia. The fundamental approach to resolving this should involve several aspects. Firstly, dietary changes are essential; you must avoid irritant...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Adults
Understanding Constipation: When to Consider a Colonoscopy and Other Solutions
Minor issue? Dear: I would like to ask you a small question. Why might someone not feel the urge to have a bowel movement? I actually consume a lot of fiber-rich foods, including vegetables and fruits. I have visited a gastroenterologist, but the only solution offered was fiber s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello everyone: The causes of constipation are often due to individual constitution (poor motility). Fruits and vegetables, along with exercise, are essential remedies that can assist (used intermittently). If there is blood in the stool and weight loss, a colonoscopy is recommen...[Read More] Understanding Constipation: When to Consider a Colonoscopy and Other Solutions