Understanding Bowel Movement Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Bowel movement issues I have always had a habit of constipation, often passing small, pellet-like stools. However, since returning home for the winter break, my bowel movements have improved; I have been passing softer, formed stools, sometimes even twice a day. Yet, I still expe...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello: In response to your concerns, you are worrying too much. Firstly, at the age of 21, it is unlikely to develop colorectal cancer, as the risk significantly increases after the age of 40. Secondly, your bowel habits do not indicate a significant change; they can be classifie...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Movement Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Managing Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms from Chemotherapy: Tips and Remedies
How to alleviate the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy caused by chemotherapy? Hello Dr. Wang! My mother is a stage IV colorectal cancer patient who has been receiving out-of-pocket targeted chemotherapy for over a year. Recently, her symptoms of numbness in her hands and feet ha...
Dr. Wang Qichao Reply:
Dear A-Zhi, The symptoms of numbness in the hands and feet may be more related to chemotherapy drugs. Typically, symptoms during the acute phase can be alleviated through warmth and a diet rich in warm foods. If there is persistent neuropathy, it can be more challenging to manag...[Read More] Managing Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms from Chemotherapy: Tips and Remedies
Understanding Post-Surgery Adhesions and Twists in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Why do adhesions or bowel obstructions occur after surgery? Hello Dr. Ke: I would like to ask you again whether most patients with colorectal cancer experience adhesions or bowel obstructions after surgery. If adhesions or obstructions occur and a second surgery is performed, is ...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, any patient who has undergone abdominal surgery, whether it be an appendectomy or a resection for colorectal cancer, may experience intestinal adhesions. The indication for surgical treatment of intestinal adhesions is complete obstruction tha...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Adhesions and Twists in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Post-Surgery Abdominal Pain: What to Do After Colorectal Cancer Surgery?
What should I do if I experience abdominal pain after colorectal cancer surgery? Hello Doctor: My father is unable to pass gas or have bowel movements, and his abdomen is swollen. A few days ago, I noticed a hard, swollen area slightly to the right of his abdomen, but we don'...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, since I am not aware of the surgical method used, I cannot definitively identify the issue. However, if it has been three months since the surgery, I wonder why there is still a drainage tube in place. Generally, anastomotic leaks should occur...[Read More] Post-Surgery Abdominal Pain: What to Do After Colorectal Cancer Surgery?
Post-Surgery Bowel Obstruction in Rectal Cancer: What Are the Options?
What should be done if there is an intestinal obstruction after rectal cancer surgery? Dear Doctor, My father is in the terminal stage of rectal cancer. Initially, he received radiation and chemotherapy at Kaohsiung Medical University for a period of time. Later, the doctor info...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
Hello: 1. Colorectal cancer can be classified into stages I, II, III, and IV. The term "end-stage" refers to stage IV, where the treatment outcomes are typically not 90%. Generally, the success rate for a cure in stage IV colorectal cancer is less than 40%. 2. Kaohsiung...[Read More] Post-Surgery Bowel Obstruction in Rectal Cancer: What Are the Options?
Managing Post-Surgery Abdominal Pain After Colorectal Cancer Treatment
What should I do if I experience abdominal pain after colorectal cancer surgery? I would like to consult the attending physician in the colorectal surgery department at your hospital. My father has progressed from stage III to stage IV rectal cancer. He has been receiving radiati...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello: In response to your question. You are truly a devoted daughter. Based on your description, it seems that your father has rectal cancer and underwent preoperative radiation therapy followed by chemotherapy before the surgical resection. Generally, patients who receive radia...[Read More] Managing Post-Surgery Abdominal Pain After Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Could It Be Colon Cancer?
I would like to know the reason? Hello Dr. Ke: Since July of last year, I have noticed bright red blood in my stool, regardless of whether it is soft or hard. (Typically, I first pass hard stool, followed by soft stool, and then the bleeding starts.) The amount is significant eno...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, based on your description, it appears to be a case of internal hemorrhoidal bleeding, characterized by painless, significant bright red bleeding that typically resolves on its own within 2-3 days. Treatment is indicated for persistent bleeding...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Could It Be Colon Cancer?
Managing Pain After Hemorrhoid Ligation: Tips for a Better Night's Sleep
On the first night after hemorrhoid banding, the pain was unbearable, making it difficult to sleep? After my examination at the hospital, I was diagnosed with one internal hemorrhoid and one external hemorrhoid. The doctor said that the external hemorrhoid is not a concern, but t...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. Generally, hemorrhoid ligation should not be painful. If there is severe pain, it is usually due to the ligation affecting an external hemorrhoid. If the pain does not subside, you should consult the original physician for further manage...[Read More] Managing Pain After Hemorrhoid Ligation: Tips for a Better Night's Sleep
Post-Surgery Care for Stage II Colorectal Cancer: Dietary Concerns and Solutions
Postoperative status of colorectal cancer? Hello Doctor: My father is a stage II colorectal cancer patient. He underwent an anterior resection on June 27, 2006, and was discharged on July 6 without needing chemotherapy. However, since the surgery, he has only been able to eat por...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, for major abdominal surgeries such as rectal cancer surgery, it is common to experience difficulties with eating postoperatively, often due to adhesions. There are no specific dietary restrictions; a light and easily digestible diet is recomme...[Read More] Post-Surgery Care for Stage II Colorectal Cancer: Dietary Concerns and Solutions
Post-Surgery Chemotherapy for Stage IV Colon Cancer: Managing Side Effects
Postoperative chemotherapy for colorectal cancer? Hello, my aunt underwent surgery for stage IV colorectal cancer on July 4th, about a month ago, and had her second chemotherapy session last Thursday. On the first day after the treatment, she felt very good, but starting Saturday...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
Based on your description, it is likely a symptom of chemotherapy or progressive cancer. Therefore, please discuss the condition with your aunt's attending physician, especially if there are any discomforts (particularly related to any specific treatments such as chemotherap...[Read More] Post-Surgery Chemotherapy for Stage IV Colon Cancer: Managing Side Effects
Understanding Blood Clots in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Blood clots in stool? Recently, I noticed that my stool has been passing with bright red blood, regardless of whether it is soft or hard, and the amount is significant enough to turn the toilet water red. However, I haven't experienced any other unusual symptoms in my body, ...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
Based on your description, a definitive diagnosis cannot be made. Please seek consultation with a colorectal surgeon as soon as possible. Dr. Hou Yong-ji.[Read More] Understanding Blood Clots in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Managing Advanced Colorectal Cancer: Dietary Changes and Treatment Options
Colorectal cancer Hello Dr. Hou: My brother underwent surgery for an artificial stoma at Taichung Veterans General Hospital over two years ago and has been on oral chemotherapy since then. In early April of this year, due to the spread of cancer cells, he had his bladder and pros...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, radiation therapy could be considered. However, if you have already undergone radiation therapy and the dosage has reached the limit for human tolerance, then there may not be any further options available. Please discuss this with your attending...[Read More] Managing Advanced Colorectal Cancer: Dietary Changes and Treatment Options
Post-Hemorrhoid Banding: Understanding Bleeding and Future Screening Needs
Post-hemorrhoid ligation? I noticed a small amount of blood on the toilet paper after having a bowel movement, so I visited a colorectal specialist. He performed a hemorrhoid ligation and mentioned that it might take about three sessions since the hemorrhoids are not small. Howev...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello: In response to your questions. 1. It is possible to experience a small amount of bleeding after hemorrhoid ligation. As long as the bleeding is not significant (such as large amounts of bright red blood or blood clots), it is generally not a concern. 2. Your grandmother is...[Read More] Post-Hemorrhoid Banding: Understanding Bleeding and Future Screening Needs
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes, Concerns, and Cancer Risks
Rectal bleeding I have been experiencing bleeding during bowel movements, and the amount is quite significant! Previously, I only noticed a little blood when wiping after passing a large stool, but this time the bleeding is much more pronounced. I would like to ask the doctor wha...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, given your age, the bleeding during bowel movements is likely due to hemorrhoids, so there is no need to be overly concerned. You should focus on improving your bowel habits (avoiding constipation and not sitting on the toilet for too long), w...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes, Concerns, and Cancer Risks
Understanding Symptoms: Blood in Stool and Abdominal Pain Concerns
Suspected intestinal issues? I would like to ask, if there is bleeding during bowel movements, along with constipation, and sometimes pain in the lower abdomen, what should I do? Could I have colon cancer, or is it possibly an issue with colitis?
Dr. Lin Kecheng Reply:
Experiencing constipation and rectal bleeding during bowel movements, considering your age and symptoms, is likely due to long-term poor bowel habits. At this point, you should visit a local regional hospital or higher-level medical facility to have an anal examination performed ...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Blood in Stool and Abdominal Pain Concerns
Should You Get a Colonoscopy After Finding Blood in Stool?
Should a colonoscopy be performed directly? Hello, doctor! Last year during a health check, I had a positive fecal occult blood test and subsequently underwent a colonoscopy where a small benign polyp was removed. The physician advised me to return for a follow-up in a year, but ...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
1. Generally, it takes about 1 year for colorectal mucosa to develop into a polyp, and approximately 5 years for a polyp to progress to colorectal cancer. Therefore, if colorectal cancer arises from a polyp, it typically forms over a period of around 15 years. Based on this timel...[Read More] Should You Get a Colonoscopy After Finding Blood in Stool?
Understanding the Differences Between Hemorrhoids and Anal Fissures
What is the difference between hemorrhoids and anal fissures? Dr. Lin, I would like to ask you about the differences between hemorrhoids and anal fissures. For the past six months, I have been experiencing pain in the anal area during bowel movements, and occasionally I notice so...
Dr. Lin Hongmao Reply:
Hello, Xiao Xiao: Anal fissures occur when hard stools tear the anal mucosa, leading to pain during bowel movements. The pain associated with bowel movements makes patients more reluctant to use the restroom, worsening constipation and creating a vicious cycle. If external hemorr...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Hemorrhoids and Anal Fissures
Understanding Internal Moles: Risks, Treatments, and Aftercare
Regarding the issue of internal moles? I would like to ask about my father's condition. He was admitted to Changhua Hospital on February 21, 2005, and the doctor mentioned performing surgery to remove an internal polyp. I would like to know how my father's condition is....
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
Dear Netizen: 1. Based on your description, you should consult a physician at Changhua Hospital. I am currently at Hsinchu Hospital, so I am unable to understand your father's condition. 2. For other questions, since your father is at Changhua Hospital, you can ask the at...[Read More] Understanding Internal Moles: Risks, Treatments, and Aftercare
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help
Regarding the issue of rectal bleeding? Hello, today (January 24th) I noticed blood at my anus while having a bowel movement, it was like dripping water... The color of the blood is similar to that of menstrual blood. I usually have regular bowel movements (almost daily), and som...
Dr. Lin Hongmao Reply:
Dear Shiu: Hello! Based on what you mentioned, it seems like there might be rectal bleeding. Below is some information regarding hemorrhoids for your reference. 1. What are hemorrhoids? In simple terms, hemorrhoids are an enlargement of the vascular tissue in and around the an...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Symptoms: Blood in Stool, Nosebleeds, and Eye Issues
Endless worry? Hello Dr. Hou, I have a question to ask you. My mother has been experiencing significant bleeding during bowel movements for the past week or two. Last night, while blowing her nose, she noticed blood as well. Additionally, her eyes have been red with bloodshot s...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it is certainly possible that there is an issue with the coagulation mechanism, leading to multiple bleeding sites. Please seek medical attention for early diagnosis as soon as possible. 1. You may first consult a hematologist to check for anemia...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Blood in Stool, Nosebleeds, and Eye Issues