Understanding Rectal Ulcers: Common Causes and Cancer Risks
Rectal ulcer for two months? Doctor, my mother had a colonoscopy on January 31, where an ulcer was found. She returned on February 21 to review the biopsy report, and the doctor prescribed blood tests and a stool softener, stating that she would need another sigmoidoscopy next mo...
Dr. Chen Bingze Reply:
Hello, it seems that both your attending physician and the pathologist cannot completely rule out the possibility of malignancy, which is why they are requesting that you continue to be closely monitored. You may need to cooperate with your attending physician's follow-up pl...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Ulcers: Common Causes and Cancer Risks
Understanding Persistent Anal Itching: Causes and Relief Strategies
The itching around the anus has been intermittent for several months... (mostly occurring at night, but there are also episodes during the day, and it does not happen every day)? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing itching around the anal area intermittently for over two to t...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
The condition you described is known as pruritus ani. The skin in the perianal area is very sensitive. Skincare products, wet wipes, and ointments may cause allergic reactions. Using rough toilet paper or cleaning with hot water and bath products can also excessively irritate the...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Anal Itching: Causes and Relief Strategies
Persistent Anal Swelling: Causes and Treatment Options Explained
From mid-December last year to mid-March this year, there has been a sensation of swelling around the anus? Hello Doctor, I work in an office, but I make sure to get up and walk around for five minutes every half hour on average. I have been doing this for years. In April of the ...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
The swelling sensation caused by internal hemorrhoids may recur and can persist for several months. Most rectal and anal-related issues can be diagnosed through a clinical examination. If further evaluation is needed, options may include colonoscopy, rectal ultrasound, or pelvic ...[Read More] Persistent Anal Swelling: Causes and Treatment Options Explained
Persistent Right Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Surgical Evaluation
Right-sided abdominal pain? I have been experiencing a dull pain on the right side of my abdomen for the past two years. I had a gastrointestinal examination last year, which did not reveal any issues, but I still feel discomfort in my abdomen. Recently, I noticed that when I pus...
Dr. Chen Bingze Reply:
You can see a gastroenterologist, and if an abdominal ultrasound is necessary, the doctor will arrange it. If everything is fine, you can also consult a pain management specialist.[Read More] Persistent Right Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Surgical Evaluation
Persistent Right Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Right-sided abdominal pain? I have been experiencing a dull pain on the right side of my abdomen for the past two years. I had a gastrointestinal examination last year, which did not reveal any issues, but I still feel discomfort in my abdomen. Recently, I noticed that when I pus...
Dr. Chen Bingze Reply:
You can see a gastroenterologist, and if an abdominal ultrasound is necessary, the doctor will arrange it. If there are no issues, you can also consult a pain management specialist.[Read More] Persistent Right Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice?
Understanding Anal Itching: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
Itching around the anal area? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing itching around the anal area for a month. A few days ago, I visited a colorectal surgeon who examined me with a digital exam and an anoscope, but he did not clearly inform me whether I have hemorrhoids (nor whet...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
Itching may be an early symptom of hemorrhoids. If evaluated by a physician, skin allergies and other issues should be ruled out. It is advisable to follow the doctor's recommendations for the use of suppositories and ointments for hemorrhoids, as well as to take warm sitz b...[Read More] Understanding Anal Itching: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
Understanding Hard Lumps After Bruising: When to Seek Medical Help
Hematoma after bruising? Two months ago, I sustained bruises on my knee and ankle due to a car accident. An X-ray was taken at that time, and there were no issues found. The bruising has since dissipated, but I can still feel a hard lump at the site of the original bruise on my a...
Dr. Peng Xianwen Reply:
Dear Ms. Li: You may continue with your consultations, but it may not be very helpful. If you still have concerns regarding medical treatment, it is advisable to return for a discussion with your attending physician. Director Peng Hsien-Wen, General Surgery, Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps After Bruising: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding HPV Warts: Concerns After Treatment and Recovery
Cauliflower, anal warts, hemorrhoids? Hello, Doctor. I underwent electrosurgical treatment for genital warts on February 17, which affected the labia, vaginal opening, and anal area. During my visit to the obstetrics and gynecology department, the doctor mentioned that warts migh...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
1. The growth rate of warts varies from person to person, typically depending on the individual's immune system status and the viral load and activity of the virus. Each person's response to HPV is different, so it is uncertain whether warts will enlarge or worsen while...[Read More] Understanding HPV Warts: Concerns After Treatment and Recovery
Can Anal Abscess Coexist Without Surgery? Understanding the Risks
Can an anal abscess coexist with other conditions? In January, I discovered a hard lump and initially thought it was an inflamed abrasion. Later, I noticed it had grown larger and was painful when pressed, which prompted me to see a doctor. I was subsequently diagnosed with a sus...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
Based on the description, it appears that there has been no pain or other discomfort for some time, indicating that the anal abscess may have resolved. Tissue inflammation or fibrosis can also present as a lump, so the doctor's suggestion to coexist with the mass is reasonab...[Read More] Can Anal Abscess Coexist Without Surgery? Understanding the Risks
Monitoring Intracranial Pressure After Ventriculostomy: Key Insights
How to monitor intracranial pressure after the placement of a ventriculostomy catheter? Hello Doctor: My father is currently in a vegetative state. Before he fell into a complete coma, he was still conscious and able to move his eyes. During that time, it was discovered that he h...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
To directly measure intracranial pressure, invasive procedures such as lumbar puncture are required. A CT scan can only indirectly detect ventricular enlargement and then infer elevated intracranial pressure.[Read More] Monitoring Intracranial Pressure After Ventriculostomy: Key Insights
Should You Undergo Surgery for Heavy Legs Due to Nerve Compression?
Heavy sensation in the lower limbs? Since last year, I have been experiencing a heavy sensation in my lower limbs and a swaying feeling while walking. An MRI revealed compression at cervical levels 5, 6, and 7, as well as compression and a herniated disc at lumbar level 5. The ne...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: It is suspected that your unsteady gait is due to cervical spinal cord pathology. If an MRI confirms spinal cord compression and the symptoms are significant, surgery for decompression may be recommended. As for nerve conduction studies, they are later indicators that can ...[Read More] Should You Undergo Surgery for Heavy Legs Due to Nerve Compression?
Risks of Spine Surgery in Patients with VRE Infection
VRE Infection and Spinal Surgery My mother has a compression fracture that is pressing on her spinal nerves, resulting in paralysis of her lower body. She has been hospitalized for over a month. The doctor has recommended a decompression surgery with the placement of bone screws....
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Performing surgery in the presence of an infection increases the risk of wound infection and bacterial dissemination, potentially leading to sepsis. However, if there is nerve compression resulting in lower limb paralysis, surgery may be the only option for improvement. Fr...[Read More] Risks of Spine Surgery in Patients with VRE Infection
Post-Surgery Recovery Challenges After Lumbar Disc Rupture: Seeking Solutions
Postoperative care after lumbar disc herniation surgery? Dear Doctor, I underwent two surgeries in 2020 for L3-4-5 lumbar spine stabilization with interbody fusion devices. My recovery was good, and three months post-surgery, I returned to delivering food. After nearly a year, ...
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: If the damage is severe before surgery, the postoperative recovery may not be ideal. Your condition is more complex. We need to review MRI and other imaging studies to provide you with a clearer assessment and recommendations. You can bring a series of MRIs for a consultat...[Read More] Post-Surgery Recovery Challenges After Lumbar Disc Rupture: Seeking Solutions
Understanding Large Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Treatments, and Surgical Options
Hemorrhoids are too large? Hello Doctor, my mother (63) has been experiencing rectal bleeding. She visited a colorectal specialist yesterday, who diagnosed her with large internal and external hemorrhoids. The doctor mentioned that due to the size of the external hemorrhoids, sur...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
Hemorrhoids can lead to an increased frequency of bowel movements primarily because they cause discomfort in the anal area, stimulating the nerves around the rectum and anus, which creates a sensation of needing to defecate, even if there is not always stool present. If the hemor...[Read More] Understanding Large Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Treatments, and Surgical Options
Post-Surgery Concerns: What to Do About Remaining Stitches?
Post-operative concerns after suture removal? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about an injury I sustained due to work. My left thumb was struck by a metal plate, resulting in a fracture of the nail area. I was injured on December 23, 2023, and had my stitches removed on Januar...
Dr. Li Zhonghuai Reply:
Hello! You can come to the outpatient clinic for the removal. Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you![Read More] Post-Surgery Concerns: What to Do About Remaining Stitches?
Understanding Hypoxia in Neurological Emergencies: A Case Study
Cerebral hypoxia My boyfriend is 43 years old. On the morning of February 17, he suddenly became rigid all over, drooled, and after five minutes, his lips turned purple. When the ambulance arrived about five minutes later, he had no pulse. They used an AED but there was still no ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
The probability is extremely low, and even if one wakes up, there are usually severe sequelae such as dementia, physical disabilities, and so on.[Read More] Understanding Hypoxia in Neurological Emergencies: A Case Study
Understanding and Managing Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids: What to Do Next?
Thrombotic external hemorrhoid On March 1st, I visited a clinic due to anal pain, and the doctor diagnosed me with thrombosed external hemorrhoids. An outpatient procedure was performed to evacuate the thrombus, and I was prescribed a topical ointment. However, on March 3rd, I st...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
After squeezing, if swelling occurs again, it may be due to the swelling of the hemorrhoids themselves, not necessarily caused by a thrombosis. It is advisable to take warm sitz baths, along with the use of ointments and anti-inflammatory pain relievers, which can help alleviate ...[Read More] Understanding and Managing Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids: What to Do Next?
Managing Pain and Incontinence After Anal Fissure Surgery: A Patient's Journey
Postoperative pain and incontinence after anal fissure surgery? Hello Dr. Ke, last May I underwent surgery for chronic anal fissures combined with anal stenosis. The doctor performed excision of internal hemorrhoids, sentinel hemorrhoids, fissurectomy, and a vertical and horizont...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
1. If the pain during bowel movements decreases and there is no more bleeding, then the surgery should be considered successful. The scar pain should gradually alleviate; however, if it persists for more than six months, it is advisable to consult the surgeon for further evaluati...[Read More] Managing Pain and Incontinence After Anal Fissure Surgery: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
Rectal bleeding? If a 63-year-old woman experiences rectal bleeding after wiping, it is important to determine whether it is due to hemorrhoids or another cause. Since this is her first occurrence, and considering that she had a colonoscopy last month where the doctor noted ulcer...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
For the situation of bleeding when wiping, the following recommendations are suggested: 1. Bleeding characteristics: It is important to observe the color, amount, and nature of the bleeding. If the blood is bright red, it is usually associated with hemorrhoids; if the color is da...[Read More] Understanding Rectal Bleeding: Is It Hemorrhoids or Something Else?
Understanding Internal Hemorrhoids: When to Consider Surgery?
Questions about surgery for hemorrhoidal swelling? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my condition. Initially, when I was experiencing severe pain from hemorrhoids, a digital examination diagnosed me with grade I internal hemorrhoids. I have since found some relief with med...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
First-degree internal hemorrhoids are not typically recommended for surgical intervention because the postoperative pain may exceed the original discomfort. Additionally, if the hemorrhoids are not severe, surgery may not result in significant improvement. If medication treatment...[Read More] Understanding Internal Hemorrhoids: When to Consider Surgery?