Understanding Chronic Hepatitis B: Risks, Monitoring, and Treatment Options
Chronic Hepatitis B I am currently 40 years old and have been living with chronic hepatitis B for nearly 20 years. My most recent blood tests and ultrasound results are as follows: fatty liver, EAG/EAB: -/+, AST/ALT: 36/58, AFP: -, HBsAg: +. The doctor said that I do not need med...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
Liver cancer has a widely varying incidence rate around the world, but it is recognized as one of the most common malignant tumors in humans. In Taiwan, the incidence of liver cancer remains alarmingly high. According to statistics from the Department of Health, malignant tumors ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Hepatitis B: Risks, Monitoring, and Treatment Options
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?
Understanding Why You Can't Gain Weight: Insights and Solutions
What are the solutions for not gaining weight? Hello Dr. Tseng: I have always struggled to gain weight (176 cm, around 60 kg). My situation is as follows: 1. My father is also thin (possibly hereditary). 2. I have poor digestion and absorption (I eat the same amount as others but...
Dr. Zeng Fenyu Reply:
If your overall health is good, being thin should not be a major concern. However, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist to examine your digestive system and seek advice from a nutritionist for dietary improvements.[Read More] Understanding Why You Can't Gain Weight: Insights and Solutions
Understanding Anorexia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Anorexia Nervosa 1. Sudden loss of appetite (significant decrease in food intake) 2. Weight loss 3. Increased feelings of fullness
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Symptoms such as loss of appetite, weight loss, and abdominal bloating in young individuals should raise concern for the following potential causes: 1. Mental health disorders, such as anorexia nervosa. 2. Thyroid dysfunction, among others. If there are any doubts, it is advisabl...[Read More] Understanding Anorexia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Managing Bloating and Constipation: Dietary Tips for Relief
Abdominal distension Hello Doctor: I have a history of chronic constipation, indigestion, and long-term stomach pain. Recently, my symptoms have become more unusual; I experience bloating whether I eat or not, and my abdomen is distended. I rely on medication to achieve bowel mov...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Hello Ms. Nan: Eat more fiber-rich foods such as fruits like bananas and papayas, as well as vegetables like cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage and broccoli. High-fiber foods include whole grain bread, among others.[Read More] Managing Bloating and Constipation: Dietary Tips for Relief
Managing Eye Disorders Caused by Hyperthyroidism: Treatment Options
Thyroid eye disease caused by hyperthyroidism? Due to hyperthyroidism causing tightness in the eye muscles (as diagnosed by a physician at National Taiwan University), there is an impact on vision resulting in double vision, and the eyeball cannot move upward (currently controlle...
Dr. Zeng Fenyu Reply:
Hello Amy, If the ocular changes caused by hyperthyroidism cannot be controlled with eye drops, the current treatment options to consider are: 1. Radiation therapy 2. Surgery 3. Steroid injections 4. Injections of Somatostatin, among others. The effectiveness varies from person...[Read More] Managing Eye Disorders Caused by Hyperthyroidism: Treatment Options
Understanding Blood in Urine: Causes, Concerns, and Care
Hematuria in urine test? I recently went to the hospital for a urine test and found some traces of blood in my urine. Does this indicate a problem with my kidneys, and what treatment options or precautions should I consider?
Dr. Zeng Fenyu Reply:
There are many reasons for blood in the urine, including contamination from menstrual blood, urinary tract infections, urinary stones, and kidney inflammation, among others. It is advisable to consult a nephrologist for further evaluation. Dr. Chen Yin-Cheng, Nephrologist.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Urine: Causes, Concerns, and Care
Understanding FSGS: Is It a Type of Nephrotic Syndrome and Its Implications?
Could you please provide more context or specify what aspect of kidney disease you would like to know about? Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a type of kidney disease that can lead to nephrotic syndrome. It is characterized by scarring in the kidney's filtering u...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is generally classified under nephrotic syndrome. The term "nephrotic syndrome" typically implies an unknown etiology. This is a type of kidney disease, and approximately two-thirds of patients may seek medical attention due to ...[Read More] Understanding FSGS: Is It a Type of Nephrotic Syndrome and Its Implications?
Causes of Thyroid Enlargement: Conditions, Treatment, and Prevention
Causes of thyroid enlargement? I would like to ask the doctor: What are the causes of thyroid enlargement and what diseases could potentially arise from it? How should it be treated and prevented?
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Hello Mr. Hardaway: Thyroid enlargement is quite common and often has unknown causes. It can be due to viral infections, hyperthyroidism, benign or malignant tumors, among others. You need to consult a physician for thyroid hormone testing, and if necessary, a biopsy may be requi...[Read More] Causes of Thyroid Enlargement: Conditions, Treatment, and Prevention