Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination and Liver Function Concerns
Hepatitis B I received the hepatitis B vaccine (four doses) during elementary school, but later blood tests showed no antibodies. I then received three additional doses, and recently, I had another blood test that again showed no antibodies. I received one more shot; should I con...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
You should not receive the vaccine again, primarily because you may have already been infected with hepatitis B. It is recommended that you visit our clinic, Internal Medicine, Room 5, to see Dr. Yang Guojun, who previously served as a research physician in the Gastroenterology a...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination and Liver Function Concerns
Effective Management and Care for Hepatitis C: Key Insights and Tips
Treatment and Care for Hepatitis C Dear Dr. Yang, For a 56-year-old patient newly diagnosed with Hepatitis C, can taking liver protection supplements effectively control or even cure the condition? What lifestyle and dietary precautions should be taken?
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
Is the liver medication you are currently taking effective? Please come to our clinic for treatment at Internal Medicine 5, Dr. Yang Guojun, who previously served as a research physician in the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at National Taiwan University Hospital (...[Read More] Effective Management and Care for Hepatitis C: Key Insights and Tips
Understanding Elevated GPT Levels: Causes, Implications, and Next Steps
The GPT index is too high? I had a health check-up at the health center, and my GPT (ALT) level was as high as 90. What does this mean? How is this index calculated? What could be causing this phenomenon? What should I do? What kind of tests should I undergo? Please reply promptl...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
GPT and GOT are enzymes, translated as transaminases. Under normal circumstances, they are present in organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. However, both are commonly indicative of liver inflammation, which is why we refer to them as "hepatitis indices." Normall...[Read More] Understanding Elevated GPT Levels: Causes, Implications, and Next Steps
Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Health Implications and Pregnancy Concerns
Hepatitis B carrier Three years ago, I was diagnosed with hepatitis B through a blood test, and in September of the 89th year, I had a blood test for the E antigen, which indicated that I do not have hepatitis B. However, in June of the 89th year, I underwent a premarital health ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
1. Hepatitis B carriers should undergo ultrasound and liver function tests (SGOT, SGPT, and AFP) every three to six months. 2. The term "cocktail therapy" is a general term, and the specific contents vary among different theories, so its impact on the liver is unknown. ...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Health Implications and Pregnancy Concerns
Understanding Hepatitis B: Risks, Management, and Health Concerns
Hepatitis B Dr. Ke: Hello! I would like to ask you a few questions, please respond, thank you! 1. I had hepatitis B when I was younger, but I recovered. My boyfriend is a carrier of hepatitis B; will he transmit it to me? 2. Is it true that a hepatitis B carrier will never ful...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Vivian: 1. Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through blood transfusions and injections; it is not transmitted through food. 2. Chronic carriers of Hepatitis B are not easily cured, but there are new treatment options available. Please follow up with a hepatology clinic f...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Risks, Management, and Health Concerns
Understanding Abnormal Liver Function Tests: What Do Your Results Mean?
Liver dysfunction I had a blood test at the end of June this year, and three liver function results showed abnormal values: Total Protein (8.8), Globulin (4.1), G.O.T. (40), and G.P.T. (80). What issues might my liver have, and how should I address them? Thank you!
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Liver function abnormalities are commonly seen in acute hepatitis, chronic persistent hepatitis, or congenital bile metabolism disorders, among others. It is recommended to follow up with a gastroenterology outpatient clinic and undergo ultrasound examination.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Liver Function Tests: What Do Your Results Mean?
Essential Guide to Hepatitis B Management and Liver Health in Taichung
liver Hello Dr. Hong, I am a carrier of hepatitis B. I would like to ask: 1. Which hospitals in Taichung offer regular liver function tests and ultrasound examinations? 2. I have been taking medication recently due to urticaria, which is likely an antihistamine. Will long-term us...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
1. Any hospital with a gastroenterologist certified by the Department of Health can perform the examination. 2. Almost all medications are metabolized by the liver, so unnecessary medications (including antihistamines) should be avoided.[Read More] Essential Guide to Hepatitis B Management and Liver Health in Taichung
Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Lifestyle Adjustments
Duodenal ulcer with bulb deformity? Hello! I am a working professional who spends most of my time sitting in the office. I have low physical activity, and my Hepatitis B surface antigen is positive, while the e antigen is negative. My weight and height are 70 kg and 173 cm, respe...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello: 1. Fatty liver can lead to a slight increase in liver function tests; please exercise more. 2. Chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori can cause gastritis and duodenal ulcers (recurrent ulcers may lead to deformation of the bulb). 3. Elevated atherosclerosis index; plea...[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Lifestyle Adjustments
Understanding Hepatitis A: Transmission, Antibodies, and Treatment Options
Type A gastritis What is hepatitis A? (1) Can it be transmitted if antibodies are present? (2) Will a negative reaction occur after receiving the vaccine? (3) What do positive and negative results mean? (4) Are there any treatment methods available?
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Assuming that the presence of antibodies indicates recovery, receiving the hepatitis A vaccine (3 doses) should result in antibody production. Individuals without antibodies are advised to receive the hepatitis A vaccine at our hospital and can schedule an appointment with the ga...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis A: Transmission, Antibodies, and Treatment Options
Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Symptoms and Concerns
Hepatitis B carrier I am a carrier of hepatitis B, but I have never experienced symptoms of hepatitis. I have always felt that my appearance is not very good and I tend to have a lot of heat in my body. In recent years, I have felt increasing pressure in the area near my liver, a...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello: 1. Liver distension and pain may be related to hepatitis, but it could also simply be due to gastrointestinal dyspepsia, and is mostly unrelated to liver cirrhosis. 2. Immunomodulatory agents are not conventional treatment medications, so please use them with caution. 3. G...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Elevated Liver Function Tests: Causes and Concerns
Liver function tests (LFTs) My liver function indices have been quite high for the past year. Last month, my blood test showed a level of 85. The doctor mentioned it could be due to alcohol abuse or excessive fatigue, but I have not experienced either of these issues. I am unsure...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
What you referred to as "liver function index" should correctly be termed "hepatitis index," which generally refers to ALT (GPT) and AST (GOT) levels, indicating the current activity of hepatitis. Strictly speaking, they do not represent "liver function&q...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Function Tests: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Incomplete Right Bundle Branch Block: Symptoms and Precautions
Electrocardiogram Issues I recently underwent a comprehensive health examination, and the report indicated that my electrocardiogram showed "incomplete right bundle branch block." The examining physician suggested that I should monitor it regularly. I would like to know...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Whether it is "complete" or "incomplete" right bundle branch block, there are usually no symptoms of discomfort, so there is no need to worry. Most cases are of unknown origin and may be secondary to myocardial infarction or valvular heart disease; regular fol...[Read More] Understanding Incomplete Right Bundle Branch Block: Symptoms and Precautions
Understanding Low Cholesterol: Its Link to Hepatitis B and Recovery Tips
Low cholesterol A few days ago, I read a report in the newspaper stating that low cholesterol levels can also lead to hepatitis B. My mother has low cholesterol and also has hepatitis B. Is there a connection between the two? How can low cholesterol levels be restored to normal? ...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Hepatitis B is a type of viral hepatitis caused by infection with the hepatitis B virus. Cholesterol is a type of lipid in the body that provides some energy and is necessary for hormone synthesis, so there is no direct relationship between the two. Under normal circumstances, ch...[Read More] Understanding Low Cholesterol: Its Link to Hepatitis B and Recovery Tips
Is Interferon Effective for Chronic Fatigue and Enlarged Spleen in Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C Frequent fatigue and splenomegaly, along with a diagnosis of hepatitis C, raises concerns about the effectiveness of interferon therapy. Interferon can be effective in treating hepatitis C, but the response varies among individuals. It is important to consult with a h...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
Combination therapy for hepatitis C, involving interferon and antiviral medications, can achieve an effectiveness of approximately 70%.[Read More] Is Interferon Effective for Chronic Fatigue and Enlarged Spleen in Hepatitis C?
Understanding the Risks of Cardiac Catheterization for Diabetic Patients
The risks associated with cardiac catheterization in patients with diabetes..? Hello, Doctor: My father is 50 years old and has been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus (D.M.) for over five months. He regularly takes his medication and goes for morning walks every day. His condition...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
According to your statement, your father primarily suffers from two conditions: 1. Diabetes mellitus and 2. Ischemic heart disease. Patients with diabetes are already considered a high-risk group for ischemic heart disease (or coronary artery disease). There is now a suspicion th...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Cardiac Catheterization for Diabetic Patients
Understanding Liver Health: Signs of Cirrhosis and Hepatitis Risks
Liver When the area below the white part of the eye appears yellow and cloudy, it may indicate liver cirrhosis or acute hepatitis. Are these serious conditions? Can they lead to liver cancer? Is it possible to determine if there are any liver diseases through a blood test? Thank ...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
When the sclera (the white part of the eye) appears yellow, it may indicate liver dysfunction, jaundice, or liver cancer, among other conditions. A preliminary diagnosis can be obtained through blood tests and ultrasound. Please visit a hepatobiliary and gastroenterology clinic f...[Read More] Understanding Liver Health: Signs of Cirrhosis and Hepatitis Risks
Dietary Tips for Managing Fatty Liver Disease: Causes and Precautions
Fatty liver disease What dietary considerations should be taken into account for someone diagnosed with fatty liver disease? How is fatty liver disease formed?
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
Fatty liver, in simple terms, means that the liver is "oily." This indicates that there is an accumulation of fat within liver cells. In Taiwan, approximately one-third of adults have fatty liver. Common causes of fatty liver include obesity, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, e...[Read More] Dietary Tips for Managing Fatty Liver Disease: Causes and Precautions
Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Do Antibodies Indicate Infection?
What is a hepatitis B carrier? Does having antibodies from a previous infection count? Am I also a carrier?
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
A positive hepatitis B surface antibody indicates the ability to resist hepatitis B infection, while a positive hepatitis B surface antigen indicates the ability to transmit hepatitis B or that the individual is a patient with hepatitis B. If you need further clarification about ...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Carriers: Do Antibodies Indicate Infection?
Understanding Cirrhosis: Symptoms, Risks, and When to Seek Further Care
Cirrhosis Hello Dr. Yang, I have a relative who is currently seventy years old. Recently, they have been experiencing abdominal swelling and sought medical attention. The doctor informed them that it is liver cirrhosis and prescribed some diuretics. The doctor casually mentioned...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
Dr. Yang Guojun responds: The Chinese have a deep affection for the liver, referring to cherished things as "heart and liver treasures." When extremely sad, they say "the liver and intestines are severed," and when fearful, they describe it as "the liver ...[Read More] Understanding Cirrhosis: Symptoms, Risks, and When to Seek Further Care
Understanding Yellowish Discoloration Below the Eye: Liver Health Insights
The area below the sclera appears yellow and cloudy? Recently, I noticed a yellowish discoloration below the white part of my eye. Could this indicate a serious liver issue? Could you please tell me some common symptoms of liver disease? What foods can help maintain healthier liv...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
The yellowing of the sclera (the white part of the eye) may indicate impaired liver function leading to elevated bilirubin levels, commonly seen in acute hepatitis and cirrhosis. Clinically, liver disease often presents with symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, discomfort ...[Read More] Understanding Yellowish Discoloration Below the Eye: Liver Health Insights