Male | 54
Is Elevated CA 19-9 Level Cause for Concern?
Hi, I am a healthy 54 year old male. I have been doing some routine annual lab tests near my home, where they do comprehensive labs for check-up. I have been doing it for several years, and everything is basically normal. However, I just received a lab result, CA 19-9, which is elevated (44), normal is below 34. I actually had this lab test CA 19-9 way back in 7/2022, when the level was 12 (normal). Then I had it in annual testing on 9/2023, and it was 25 (but within normal limits). In the past 6-12 months, I have had normal lactate and amylase levels too. Also, all my other blood test from yesterday were normal, including liver function test (and normal bilirubin), normal CBC, normal CEA level, normal amylase, normal sedimentation rate, normal TSH, normal blood chemistry. Of note, I also had a normal DNA stool test (cologuard) 3 years ago. I also had normal FIT stool test 2 months ago, and also last year (twice it was normal). I have no symptoms and no weight loss, and no signs of jaundice. I am not overweight either, and I do not smoke nor drink alcohol. And no one in my family has had cancer before. As I mentioned, this was incidental, but I would like to know your opinion if this is ominous, and next steps. I have schedule a full body MRI scan for next week too. Thank you.
Surgical Gastroenterologist
Answered on 23rd May '24
An increase in the level of CA 199 causes an alarm. You will get the most thorough examination if you consult a specialist. However, because CA 199 levels can be associated with certain gastrointestinal conditions, you may want to make an appointment with a gastroenterologist as well.
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Questions & Answers on "Gastroenterologyy" (1145)
I was very young around 2 years old when I was diagnosed with inguinal hernia then when I was 6 and half I had a surgery and after sometime hernia reoccurred since then I am living with inguinal hernia size of testicles is enlarged and my penis is short like that of kid
Male | 18
A condition like inguinal hernia happens when intestine bulges through a weak spot near your tummy. It causes pain, swelling, or a lump by your groin. Surgery fixes it sometimes. But if hernia returns after surgery, discuss treatment options with your doctor. Enlarged testicle and shorter penis might relate to hernia. So, mention these concerns to your healthcare provider for further solutions.
Answered on 26th June '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
I’m 22 year old male I’ve got 2 inguinal hernias for about now 8 or so Iv also got a right side lower back bludging disc Mild broad-based posterior disc bulges at L2/3 L3/4 and L4/5. Mild bilateral L4/5 and L5/S1 neural exit foramen narrowing. Which had they now for about 3 years Today my lower stomach is very tender I’m in alot of pain in my lower stomach if I walk bend or anything it hurts even more and my hernia where my groin on both sides are in a lot of pain to
Male | 22
You have inguinal hernias and back issues, which could be causing increased pain and discomfort in your lower abdomen and groin. These conditions might also explain the tenderness and worsening pain when you move. It's important to address these problems to prevent them from getting worse. Consulting a gastroenterologist about your hernias and back issues could help improve your condition and overall well-being.
Answered on 26th Aug '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
Hi iam 23years old girl suffering from belches all the time whether I eat or not no matter what I do all the time iam getting belches.
Female | 23
Burping, or belching, can happen when you swallow too much air. This may occur if you eat too quickly, chew gum, or drink fizzy beverages. Sometimes, belching results from acid reflux - stomach acid rising into your throat. To reduce belching, try these tips: Eat slowly. Avoid carbonated drinks. Don't talk while eating. If belching persists, consult a gastroenterologist to identify potential underlying causes.
Answered on 5th Aug '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
I'm 32 years old,I have difficulty in breathing,chest pain,since last 3 years,I've visited several doctors like pulmonologist psychiatrist, did all the reports of asthma but everything looks good,currently taking medicines prescribed by pulmonologist as well as by psychiatrist but I think it's not working,I had antral gastritis and skin allergy in which red itchi dots appears on skin while workouts in past,my father had TB and having asthma,I want to get rid of it
Male | 32
Consult a pulmonologist to check your symptoms, or a gastroenterologist since you were facing antral gastritis. Your chest pain could be something related to antral gastritis.
Answered on 23rd May '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
23 year old female. Have been experiencing discomfort after eating; gas, stomach gurgling, bowel movements for about 4 months
Female | 23
These symptoms can be linked to food intolerances, stress, or gut infections. To identify triggers, try keeping a food diary to track which foods cause your symptoms. Eat small portions and drink plenty of water. If the symptoms continue, it's best to consult a gastroenterologist.
Answered on 12th Sept '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
I was going through fever this week, after taking proper medical treatment fever gone but after that lose motion get started and now they're also gone but now there is heavy weakness.
Male | 31
You've had such a bad time with fever and diarrhea. Both could be the cause of your weakness later. The fever and the diarrhea ached your body thus, making you feel tired. You must hydrate yourself with water and soup. Light and easily digestible meals should be your priority.
Answered on 20th Aug '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
Di I have to eat anything after taking a reglan pill
Female | 67
Reglan can be taken with or without food. It helps relieve nausea and digestive discomfort by improving your digestive system's function. After taking it, you may feel less hungry temporarily if your symptoms improve.
Answered on 31st July '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
I have got hemorrhoids this id out side from backbum not in side
Male | 26
You might have external hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are blood vessels downright back near your passage that can be sore and itchy. They can be caused by the straining of bowel movements, obesity, or pregnancy. The application of warm baths, over-the-counter creams, and fiber-rich foods are some of the ways to help with the symptoms. It's important to check with a gastroenterologist if the problem persists.
Answered on 26th Sept '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
I'm worried about my 40-year-old sister who had gastric bypass surgery. Can you provide insights into what to expect or look out for in terms of health issues and care 15 years after gastric bypass?
Female | 40
After gastric bypass surgery, it is necessary to monitor the condition of your sister. She might develop complications like malnutrition, dumping syndrome and hernias. It is advisable to see a gastroenterologist who practices bariatric surgery for regular appointments and tips on healthy living.
Answered on 23rd May '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
Hello!My stool was really hard 3 days ago and barely came out. Then 2 days ago it didn’t even come out hurted badly but then I farted and it came out with blood. Today my stools color was really light brown. I’m really scared
Female | 14
Hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or gastrointestinal bleeding can be few issues related to your condition.. Consult a gastroenterologist for proper evaluation and treatment in your particular case.
Answered on 23rd May '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
Hello why do I keep having continuous and intense hiccups for almost three years now
Male | 22
Your diaphragm twitches, resulting in hiccups. Many factors could cause persistent hiccups over years. For example acid reflux, nerve damage, stress. See a doctor, and discover the reason. They might recommend lifestyle changes and medications. These can help stop hiccups.
Answered on 26th July '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
I am 27 year old Male. For the last one week, I have been experiencing fever. Before I had taken spicy food that resulted into stomach aching and I took an herbal medicine known as Kayam Churna and the situation was normal. Experiencing a fever at night never stopped. Until yesterday when I started having black stool like bitumen or tar. I have gone thrice to the washroom and the colour is the same as of now.
Male | 27
Fever, a stomach ache, and black stool could be internal bleeding. The spicy food and herbal medicine may have provoked your stomach. Black stools can be a result of internal bleeding. It is important to see the gastroenterologist immediately to get the right treatment. Sipping water is an important thing to do.
Answered on 9th Oct '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
I got too much pain inside my left abdomen..is that due to spicy food.
Male | 29
Eating spicy food might likely be the reason behind the pain in your left abdomen, yet this pain might be caused by other reasons as well. This pain could be due to stomach problems or dysfunction of your organs. If you notice the pain is severe or lasts a long time, it's advisable to consult a gastroenterologist. In the meantime, you can try eating bland food and drinking a lot of water as a means to check if the pain subsides.
Answered on 7th Oct '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
Hi I am 46 years old male. I have dignous gallstones 15 days back at that time my sgpt and sgot was normal. But after 10 days I redo LFT test now Sgpt 114 and sgot 46. I want to operate gallstones. Please provide me best suggestion.
Male | 46
Gallstones can lead to discomfort, especially when a person has a fat diet. A liver enzyme SGPT and SGOT rise may indicate that the gallbladder has become overactive. Cholecystectomy is a popular and efficient method in the treatment of gallstones. It is known as a cholecystectomy and can relax your symptoms. You should consider this choice and work with your gastroenterologist to find the best treatment for your condition.
Answered on 1st Oct '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
I started vomiting blood today
Female | 39
Vomiting blood indicates bleeding in your stomach or esophagus. Possible causes include stomach ulcers, esophageal tears, or excessive vomiting. Symptoms may include weakness, dizziness, and stomach pain. Seek emergency treatment immediately for tests and proper care. Do not eat or drink until you are examined.
Answered on 17th Oct '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography of the whole abdomen showing moderate hypatomegaly with coarse attentuation, edematous GB mild dilated portal vein,splenomegaly,diverticulituis in sigmoid colon. Crystitis. My brother suresh kumar's report has been admitted in Maharaja Agrasain Hospital, Punjabi Bagh and the doctor has recommended us for a second opinion. Kindly advise / suggest next course of action if possible.
Male | 44
Answered on 8th Aug '24
Dr. Pallab Haldar
i am having black hard stool after every two days ..and it causes pain in my anal area
Female | 26
When you're having trouble pooping, it could be constipation. Your poop is dark and dry. Pooping is painful. This happens if your poop is moving too slowly through your body. You may not be drinking enough liquid. Or eating enough fiber. Drink more water. Eat fruits and veggies to help soften your poop. Talk to a gastroenterologist if this problem continues after trying to fix it yourself.
Answered on 16th Aug '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
Having loose motions from some days.
Female | 20
Experiencing loose motions for a few days can be challenging. It means you're going to the bathroom more often, and your stool is watery. This can happen due to infections from germs in food or water. To stay safe, drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Eating plain foods like rice can help calm your stomach. If the condition persists, it's best to consult a gastroenterologist for advice.
Answered on 14th Oct '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
I feel nausea and full...and irritated to food ..what could be the problem?
Male | 21
Experiencing nausea, fullness, and food aversion could be due to indigestion, GERD, gastritis, food intolerances, infections, stress, pregnancy, ulcers, gallbladder issues, or other medical conditions. Consult a professional doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Answered on 23rd May '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
Lately I have been gaseous , my stomach is growling, am nauseous , belching a lot , a popping sound in my stomach , most times I have constipation them switch to diarrhea, belly is bloated , I pass gas regularly , and have a bad taste on my mouth at times What could be the cause ?
Female | 20
You might have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. IBS causes bloating, gas, tummy pain, constipation, diarrhea, and bowel habit changes. The reason for IBS isn't fully known. Stress, some foods, or hormonal shifts may trigger it. Managing IBS needs eating healthy foods, reducing stress, and possibly taking doctor-prescribed medicines to ease symptoms. IBS can be tough, but making lifestyle adjustments may help control it. Don't hesitate to consult a gastroenterologist for guidance on managing your symptoms effectively.
Answered on 17th July '24
Dr. Samrat Jankar
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