Understanding Abdominal Lumps: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Follow-Up Care
Follow-up observation for abdominal mass? On the left side of the abdomen (above the navel, directly below the right chest), a hard lump approximately 1 cm in size has appeared over the past month. It is not painful or itchy, has normal skin color, and does not hurt when pressed;...
Dr. Chen Jiaming Reply:
1. If it is a simple skin infection (which is rare), applying an antibiotic ointment may improve the condition. If it is a sebaceous cyst, monitor for any signs of redness, swelling, heat, or pain; if these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately. 2. Please observe for...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Lumps: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Follow-Up Care
Post-Appendectomy: Understanding Intercostal Nerve Pain in New Moms
Can appendicitis surgery cause intercostal neuralgia? Hello, doctor. I am a new mother, and it has been over eight months since I gave birth. The day after I completed my postpartum confinement, I underwent surgery for appendicitis. Since the surgery, I have been experiencing pai...
Dr. Chen Jiaming Reply:
Generally, laparoscopic surgery in the lower abdomen is unlikely to cause persistent pain (especially in the bilateral ribs). You might want to reconsider the changes in daily postures and body mechanics related to postpartum childcare, which could contribute to the fatigue sympt...[Read More] Post-Appendectomy: Understanding Intercostal Nerve Pain in New Moms
Is It Normal to Feel Hardness Above the Belly Button After Appendectomy?
Post-appendectomy Hello, doctor. It has been two weeks since my laparoscopic appendectomy, and I feel a hard area when I press above my navel. Is this normal? Thank you.
Dr. Li Qinglong Reply:
Hello Ms. Wu: Regarding the issue you raised, if there is no infection, it should be scar tissue under the wound. However, it is advisable to return to your original surgeon for a follow-up consultation. Thank you. Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about you...[Read More] Is It Normal to Feel Hardness Above the Belly Button After Appendectomy?
Understanding Pain Above the Navel: Possible Causes and Concerns
I want to know what is happening with my body? The location is slightly to the left of the position one finger above the navel, and pressing it causes some pain. What kind of internal condition could this indicate?
Dr. Chen Jiaming Reply:
There are numerous possibilities for abdominal tenderness, including many non-pathological issues (normal tenderness) that cannot be assessed through online consultation. It is recommended to seek in-person medical evaluation at a healthcare facility.[Read More] Understanding Pain Above the Navel: Possible Causes and Concerns
Post-Laparoscopic Surgery Care: Managing Pain and Swelling After Appendectomy
Post-laparoscopic surgery Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my condition after undergoing laparoscopic surgery for acute appendicitis two days ago. I have three incisions, all of which are stitched, and I was discharged today. I am scheduled to return for suture removal in ...
Dr. Xu Kaixi Reply:
It is normal to experience some pain at the laparoscopic appendectomy incision site for about a week post-surgery. It is also possible to have abdominal bloating as the gastrointestinal tract has not fully recovered. The soreness at the injection site on your arm should gradually...[Read More] Post-Laparoscopic Surgery Care: Managing Pain and Swelling After Appendectomy
Post-Surgery Complications: Understanding Wound Infections After Appendectomy
Post-wound complications? Hello, doctor. I underwent laparoscopic surgery for acute appendicitis on July 10th in the early morning. However, it was discovered a bit late, and there was some early pus formation. The doctor did not assess for peritonitis at that time, but due to co...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Laparoscopic appendectomy has a higher risk of infection at the incision site since the appendix is removed through the umbilical incision. However, whether what you are experiencing is truly pus or just wound exudate should be evaluated by a physician. As for the peritonitis cau...[Read More] Post-Surgery Complications: Understanding Wound Infections After Appendectomy
Accidentally Cutting a Hernia Scar: What You Need to Know
Accidentally cut an old scar from a hernia? Hello, Dr. Hsu: About 15 years ago, I underwent traditional sutured surgery for an indirect inguinal hernia on my right side. The surface was sutured with absorbable stitches, resulting in a scar approximately 10 cm long. The end of the...
Dr. Xu Kaixi Reply:
Hello: The abrasion on the surface of the scar after hernia surgery will not affect the previous hernia repair. It can be treated like a regular skin abrasion, and you can change the dressing daily. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Accidentally Cutting a Hernia Scar: What You Need to Know
Post-Appendectomy Concerns: Unusual Odor and Cleaning the Belly Button
What are the issues related to the belly button after appendectomy? I had my appendix removed six months ago, and today after taking a shower, I noticed an unusual odor coming from my belly button. I used a cotton swab dipped in saline solution to clean it and found what appeared...
Dr. Xu Kaixi Reply:
If there is no continuous bleeding or pain, it is likely a superficial abrasion, and you can apply medication on your own. Additionally, it is fine to clean the navel, as it is unrelated to the surgery.[Read More] Post-Appendectomy Concerns: Unusual Odor and Cleaning the Belly Button
Can Medical Imaging Accurately Diagnose Hernia Symptoms?
Hernia - Is there an instrument that can confirm the diagnosis? Hello Dr. Hsu, In late July, I experienced discomfort at a point 8 cm to the right of my navel. Throughout the day, I would feel sharp pain about three times, lasting around five seconds each time. Pressing on the a...
Dr. Xu Kaixi Reply:
Based on your description, the likelihood of a hernia is low. For a more accurate diagnosis, a computed tomography (CT) scan may be considered.[Read More] Can Medical Imaging Accurately Diagnose Hernia Symptoms?
Understanding a Painless Spine Bump: Causes and Concerns
There is a painless bump on the back of the spine that is not causing any discomfort? There is a protrusion on my spine that is not painful and I am unaware of it because I was walking on the street when a colleague pointed it out. I would like to ask a doctor why there is this b...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello, a written description is not as effective as seeing a doctor in person. It is recommended to consult a physician, specifically a neurosurgeon or an orthopedic surgeon. Best wishes to you. // Neurosurgeon Dr. Lai Chao-Kang.[Read More] Understanding a Painless Spine Bump: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Lower abdominal distension? Hello, Doctor: Since last week, I have been feeling a sense of heaviness and bloating below my navel, which is particularly noticeable when sitting down. I initially thought it might be an issue with my uterus, but after a gynecological examination, th...
Dr. Xu Kaixi Reply:
If you have undergone a colonoscopy and no abnormalities were found, the possibility of colorectal cancer has essentially been ruled out. The abdominal symptoms are more likely to be functional abnormalities, and it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist.[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Discomfort: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Painful Bumps in Your Belly Button: Causes and Care
There is something inside the belly button? I recently noticed a lump in my navel. It doesn't appear to have changed on the outside, but when I press on it, I can feel a mass that is painful. What could this be, and what should I be aware of?
Dr. Chen Jiaming Reply:
Without a physical examination, I cannot provide a definitive diagnosis. While it may be a benign subcutaneous tumor, one should be cautious of the possibility of an umbilical hernia, as it may gradually enlarge over time, causing protrusion of intra-abdominal tissue. It is advis...[Read More] Understanding Painful Bumps in Your Belly Button: Causes and Care
Is It Anal Fissure? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Is it an anal fissure? Recently, I have been experiencing pain in my anus during bowel movements, and there is blood on the toilet paper, although it is not dripping as described online, just a small amount. However, the pain in my anus is quite real. Could this be anal fissure? ...
Dr. Chen Jiaming Reply:
First of all, the information you provided is insufficient to simply speculate whether the bleeding from the anus is caused by a fissure or other lesions. Generally speaking, acute anal fissures are commonly seen in patients who experience difficulty with bowel movements and spen...[Read More] Is It Anal Fissure? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Lower Abdominal Distension: Causes and Solutions
Abdominal distension? There is a noticeable bulge below the navel, and I can feel something resembling intestines in the lower abdomen. I have undergone a CT scan, which confirmed abnormal distension in that area, and it also showed a significant amount of retained stool. However...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Answer: In young women, abdominal masses are often caused by fecal impaction. As long as gynecological issues are ruled out, there should be no major concerns. It is recommended to increase the intake of vegetables and fruits and to drink yogurt, which may help improve gut flora....[Read More] Understanding Lower Abdominal Distension: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
Rectal bleeding Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with lupus erythematosus earlier this year. Recently, I have been taking methotrexate (MTX) for control, and my condition has stabilized with only steroids and colchicine. I have a history of gastrointestinal discomfort when taking co...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Based on your description, it seems more like hemorrhoidal bleeding; however, systemic lupus erythematosus can indeed have complications such as ischemic colitis. It is recommended to start with a light diet and maintain a good lifestyle. Spicy, irritating, and greasy foods shoul...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: Causes and When to Seek Help
How Long Does It Take for Surgical Sutures to Dissolve?
How long does it take for surgical sutures to be absorbed? Two years ago, I underwent laparoscopic surgery to remove my gallbladder due to gallstones. The incision at my navel was closed with absorbable sutures, but after two years, the sutures are still present. Occasionally, wh...
Dr. Chen Jiaming Reply:
The "meat line" refers to absorbable sutures, which are designed to be absorbed in the subcutaneous tissue (the "meat"). Once exposed to the surface, they will not be absorbed. However, after two years, the internal portion should have loosened and disintegrat...[Read More] How Long Does It Take for Surgical Sutures to Dissolve?
Understanding Abnormal Bowel Movements: When to Seek Medical Attention
Abnormal bowel movements? Since the second half of last year, I have occasionally experienced sudden abdominal pain (dull pain, mostly located below the navel or in the right abdomen) during sleep, but I do not have the urge to defecate. Even when I do feel the urge, I can only p...
Dr. Xu Kaixi Reply:
Hello: Changes in bowel habits and stool characteristics, along with other gastrointestinal symptoms, are not normal and could indicate various potential diagnoses, including serious gastrointestinal diseases. It is strongly recommended to visit a hospital's gastroenterology...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Bowel Movements: When to Seek Medical Attention
Post-Laparoscopic Surgery: Understanding Complications and Care
Postoperative condition after laparoscopic surgery? Hello, doctor. I underwent laparoscopic surgery on the 22nd, which involved three incisions, with the one at the navel being larger and having a drainage tube. On the first day after the surgery, there was slight bleeding from t...
Dr. Xu Kaixi Reply:
Hello: Although laparoscopic surgery results in smaller incisions, the likelihood of wound infection or poor healing varies depending on the specific procedure. The situation you described, where the wound produces discharge a few days post-surgery and shows signs of poor healing...[Read More] Post-Laparoscopic Surgery: Understanding Complications and Care
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help
Rectal bleeding Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing some difficulty with bowel movements. I've been doing clockwise abdominal massages and pinching my abdomen starting from below the navel on the right side and moving to the left, which has helped with my bo...
Dr. Xu Kaixi Reply:
Hello, Rectal bleeding is considered an abnormal symptom and can range from common conditions like hemorrhoids to more serious gastrointestinal diseases. Based on your description, hemorrhoids are the most likely cause of the bleeding. However, since you mentioned other accompa...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Persistent Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions
Stomach discomfort and pain for three months? Hello Doctor, I have a dull pain above my navel, especially when I'm hungry; it hurts more on an empty stomach. After eating, it feels much better, but after 1 to 2 hours, the dull pain starts again. Sometimes I also feel slight ...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
Based on your description, it seems more like a peptic ulcer. I recommend undergoing an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Cardiovascular diseases can also present with similar symptoms, so if there is a history of hypertension, it would be advisable to consult a cardiologist for ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions