Understanding Post-Surgery Abdominal Distension: Causes and Solutions
Distressing abdominal bloating issue? Hello, Dr. Lin. A year ago, I underwent surgery for intestinal volvulus due to severe abdominal pain (there was no visible bloating). After the surgery, the doctor informed me that the cause was volvulus, and my mother, who was in the operati...
Dr. Lin Hongmao Reply:
Hello: The following information is extracted from the website of the Department of Colorectal Surgery at Tri-Service General Hospital, and it is quite detailed for your reference: Volvulus refers to the twisting of an organ around its axis, which can occur in the stomach, spleen...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Abdominal Distension: Causes and Solutions
Post-Anesthesia Complications: Understanding Confusion and Mood Changes After Surgery
Anesthesia side effects Dear Doctor: My father, who is 78 years old, was diagnosed with colorectal cancer on August 19. He underwent a total rectal and anal resection surgery at Shin Kong Hospital on August 26. After the surgery, he exhibited confusion, restless sleep, and irrita...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it's important to consider not only the anesthesia issues but also the psychological reactions caused by the stress of major surgery. Additionally, physiological changes may occur due to electrolyte imbalances. Please consult your father...[Read More] Post-Anesthesia Complications: Understanding Confusion and Mood Changes After Surgery
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
I'm not sure if it's due to hemorrhoids? Hello Dr. Lin, I have been troubled by the issue of rectal bleeding for the past few days. I have a regular bowel movement every morning and maintain a balanced diet, but recently I have noticed fresh blood in the toilet and on t...
Dr. Lin Hongmao Reply:
Dear OL: Thank you for your question. Based on your description, it seems like you may be experiencing issues related to internal hemorrhoids. I have some information about hemorrhoids for your reference. 1. What are hemorrhoids? In simple terms, hemorrhoids are an enlargement o...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test: What It Reveals About Colon Health
Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) Is the fecal occult blood test solely for detecting the presence of blood in the stool? If other causes of bleeding, such as anal fissures, can also result in a positive reaction, does the test include other parameters to determine the possibility o...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
Hello: There are currently two methods for fecal occult blood testing: 1. The traditional biochemical method, which tests for the presence of iron in the stool (since blood, particularly red blood cells, contains iron). Therefore, any bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract can be...[Read More] Understanding Fecal Occult Blood Test: What It Reveals About Colon Health
Post-Surgery Complications of Colon Cancer: Understanding Risks and Treatments
Complications after colorectal cancer surgery? Hello Doctor, my mother is 64 years old. She was diagnosed with colon cancer two weeks ago and has already undergone surgery. However, it has been over a week since the surgery, and she has not passed gas, has stiffness in her neck, ...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
Hello: 1. Colorectal cancer commonly metastasizes to the liver and lungs, while bone metastasis can occur but is less frequent. 2. Based on your description, it is not possible to fully determine whether surgery is the better option. Considerations include: (1) Are there multiple...[Read More] Post-Surgery Complications of Colon Cancer: Understanding Risks and Treatments
Understanding Changes in Stool Consistency: Symptoms and Concerns
Narrowing of stool? Hello, Director Lin: For the past few days, I have been experiencing noticeable rumbling in my lower abdomen (sometimes quite loudly). There is a lot of gas moving around, and at times I can pass gas while at other times I cannot (the gas only reaches the anal...
Dr. Lin Hongmao Reply:
Dear Kendy: To answer your first question: The rumbling in the lower abdomen is due to gas in the intestines, which is produced by intestinal bacteria breaking down food or by swallowing air. Some of this gas is absorbed through the intestinal wall, and if it cannot be absorbed...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Stool Consistency: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Normal Stool Shapes and Sizes: When to Worry?
Stool shape? Hello Dr. Ke, I would like to ask about the normal shape and size of stools. I used to have irregular bowel movements, so my stools were quite large each time. Now that I've changed my habits and am having a bowel movement every day, I've started to observe...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Hello: In response to your question. Although it may sound a bit unpleasant, please imagine the process of piping cream. Yes, the shape of stool is determined by the shape of the anus. While textbooks state that the diameter is about 2.5 cm, it varies from person to person. As lo...[Read More] Understanding Normal Stool Shapes and Sizes: When to Worry?
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help
Rectal bleeding Hello, I would like to ask about a recent issue I've been experiencing. After having a bowel movement, I notice fresh blood when wiping my anus, and there is a bit of pain. I'm not sure what the problem might be. Thank you!
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
Hello: 1. Rectal bleeding may be caused by a. colorectal cancer b. hemorrhoids c. anal fissures. Please visit a colorectal surgeon as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. 2. Educational materials are available on our hospital's website for your reference.[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Rectal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns for Patients
Discomfort in the anal area? Hello, doctor. For nearly two months, I have experienced a constant urge to have a bowel movement, and in recent days, it feels as if there is something obstructing my rectum. The sensation only subsides when I lie down. I typically have a bowel movem...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
1. Based on the symptoms described, it could be an enlarged hemorrhoid (internal hemorrhoid) or a rectal tumor, and a rectal examination is necessary for differentiation. 2. If there is a direct blood relative with colorectal cancer, the risk of developing colorectal cancer is 1-...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns for Patients
Understanding Genetics and Heredity in Colorectal Cancer Prevention
Genes and Heredity Dr. Wang: Hello! Are the causes of colorectal cancer related to genetics and heredity? How can we prevent it in infants? Additionally, does smoking affect the prognosis of patients? Wishing you joy every day!
Dr. Wang Qichao Reply:
Hello! Truly hereditary cases of colorectal cancer are not very common (about 5%). The vast majority of colorectal cancers are sporadic and related to diet and lifestyle, as well as the genetic stability of the individual. Infants should be encouraged to develop good dietary habi...[Read More] Understanding Genetics and Heredity in Colorectal Cancer Prevention
Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: Next Steps in Surgical Evaluation
CEA (Carcino In April 2002, during a routine check-up, the CEA level was 10.5. In May, a colorectal examination was performed, and a 1 cm polyp was removed. Subsequently, for the next two months, two CEA tests were conducted, both showing a level of 4.35, which is still above the...
Dr. Huang Yuanhui Reply:
Answer: Surgery Dr. Huang Yuan-Hui stated that since our hospital already has a colorectal surgery specialty, this question is specifically addressed by Dr. Hou Yong-Ji from the colorectal surgery department. Thank you. Colorectal Surgery Dr. Hou Yong-Ji: 1. Carcinoembryonic anti...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: Next Steps in Surgical Evaluation
Managing Mild Hemorrhoids: Tips for Dealing with Spicy Food and Bleeding
Mild hemorrhoids with blood in the stool? A few years ago, I was diagnosed with mild hemorrhoids. However, sometimes when I eat spicy food (just seasoning), I experience rectal bleeding. Currently, I only use a topical ointment for treatment, and it usually heals within a few day...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
1. If you experience blood in your stool, do not assume it is solely due to hemorrhoidal bleeding; you should go to the hospital for an examination to rule out other potential causes (such as colorectal cancer). 2. If it is indeed hemorrhoidal bleeding, it is usually advisable t...[Read More] Managing Mild Hemorrhoids: Tips for Dealing with Spicy Food and Bleeding
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Blood in stool..? Hello Doctor: I am 21 years old and have been accustomed to having a bowel movement every two to three days since childhood. In the past three to four years, I have experienced blood in my stool, which would resolve on its own after a few days. However, for the ...
Dr. Hou Yongji Reply:
1. If a person has a bowel habit of having a bowel movement every two to three days from a young age and experiences no discomfort, it is generally acceptable as long as this pattern remains consistent. Typically, having bowel movements three times a month to three times a week i...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Do I Need Surgery for Hemorrhoids and Constipation Issues?
Is surgery necessary? Hello, doctor: I have been troubled by constipation lately, experiencing it at least two to three days a week, and my stools are often hard and pellet-like. Could this be related to hemorrhoids? I have noticed some lumps around my anal area for the past five...
Dr. Wang Qichao Reply:
Constipation is related to hemorrhoids; frequent constipation can lead to hemorrhoids, and having hemorrhoids may cause pain during bowel movements, which can further exacerbate constipation. If you notice lumps around the anal area, they could be hemorrhoids or other issues. It ...[Read More] Do I Need Surgery for Hemorrhoids and Constipation Issues?
Understanding Bloating: Symptoms and Prevention of Rectal Cancer
Bloating Occasional bloating and changes in bowel habits can indeed be concerning, as they may be associated with various gastrointestinal conditions, including colorectal cancer. The symptoms of colorectal cancer can include: 1. **Changes in Bowel Habits**: This may involve d...
Dr. Wang Qichao Reply:
Symptoms of rectal cancer often include bleeding, changes in bowel habits, mucus discharge, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. However, relying solely on the patient's symptom description for diagnosis is often unreliable. A basic rectal examination or even a colonoscop...[Read More] Understanding Bloating: Symptoms and Prevention of Rectal Cancer
Understanding Abdominal Cramping: Causes and Concerns After Colon Surgery
Abdominal cramping? Hello Doctor: I have the following questions I would like to ask you for clarification, thank you! My aunt is approximately 47 years old and has a history of stage III colorectal cancer. She underwent a colectomy about 3.4 years ago and has been regularly moni...
Dr. Wang Qichao Reply:
Postoperative follow-up for colorectal cancer typically requires regular physical examinations and the following tests: ① tumor markers ② liver and kidney function tests and complete blood count ③ chest X-ray ④ abdominal ultrasound ⑤ colonoscopy. If necessary, additional tests su...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Cramping: Causes and Concerns After Colon Surgery
Managing Rectal Tumors: Should You Consider Surgical Removal?
Management of Rectal Tumors At the beginning of August, I suffered from severe anal fistula and consulted a Western medicine doctor, who performed a colonoscopy that came back normal. One day, while having a bowel movement, I noticed a drop of blood from my anus, so I quickly wen...
Dr. Wang Qichao Reply:
Your condition can be explained in two aspects: First, regarding anal fistulas: There are several treatment options available, depending on the condition and the physician's decision, but the fundamental treatment is surgical intervention; other methods can be considered sym...[Read More] Managing Rectal Tumors: Should You Consider Surgical Removal?