Q&A with Top Doctors

Does pancreatitis require surgery?

Whether surgery is needed for pancreatitis depends on the type and severity of the condition. Mild acute pancreatitis may not require immediate surgery, while severe acute pancreatitis or chronic pancreatitis may necessitate surgical intervention. Detailed explanations are as follows:

For mild acute pancreatitis, the inflammation can usually be controlled and symptoms relieved through conservative treatments such as fasting, fluid replacement, and medications to inhibit pancreatic secretion, without the need for surgery.

However, if the condition is severe acute pancreatitis complicated by pancreatic necrosis with infection, abscess formation, or serious complications such as intestinal perforation or massive bleeding, surgical intervention becomes necessary. Procedures such as debridement and drainage can help remove necrotic tissue, control infection, and reduce the risk of death. For patients with chronic pancreatitis, surgery may be considered if issues such as pancreatic duct stones or strictures are causing recurrent abdominal pain that significantly affects quality of life.

Once diagnosed with pancreatitis, it is important to cooperate actively with your doctor to complete necessary examinations, determine the severity of the disease, and develop an appropriate treatment plan. During conservative treatment, strictly follow medical advice regarding fasting and gastrointestinal decompression. When the condition improves, gradually resume eating according to the doctor's instructions. If surgery is required, proper wound care should be taken postoperatively to prevent infection.

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Dr. Gao Jun
May 28, 2025
How many days does it take to relieve acute pancreatitis?

The recovery time for acute pancreatitis mainly depends on the severity of the condition. Symptoms may resolve within 1-5 days for mild cases, while moderately severe to severe cases may require 3-5 days or longer. Patients with acute pancreatitis should follow their physician's instructions, ensuring adequate rest and undergoing necessary examinations and treatments to promote recovery and prevent recurrence. A detailed analysis is as follows:

For mild cases without organ failure or pancreatic necrosis, symptoms typically improve within 1-5 days after treatment. Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms gradually subside, with most patients returning to normal within 1-2 weeks.

For moderately severe to severe cases involving organ dysfunction or local complications, a longer recovery period is required. Symptom relief may take 3-5 days or more, and complete recovery may take weeks to months. Severe cases often require prolonged treatment in an intensive care unit (ICU), with recovery potentially extending for several months and possibly resulting in long-term complications such as pancreatic insufficiency.

Closely monitor changes in serum amylase, lipase levels, and imaging findings during recovery to ensure proper restoration of pancreatic function. If persistent abdominal pain, fever, hypotension, or other symptoms occur, prompt medical attention is necessary to rule out complications such as pancreatic abscess or pseudocyst.

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Dr. Gao Jun
May 28, 2025
Can I eat yam during the recovery phase of pancreatitis?

In general, patients in the recovery phase of pancreatitis can consume yam in moderation.

Yam is rich in starch, dietary fiber, vitamins, and various trace elements. It has a mild nature and is easily digested and absorbed, placing minimal burden on the pancreas. During the recovery phase of pancreatitis, when pancreatic function has not fully recovered, the diet should follow the principles of low fat, blandness, and easy digestion. Yam naturally contains low fat, and its mucilaginous protein and other components help protect the digestive tract mucosa. Appropriate consumption will not worsen the condition but can instead supply energy and nutrients, promoting recovery. However, excessive consumption may cause symptoms of indigestion such as abdominal distension, which could hinder recovery.

For patients recovering from pancreatitis, it is recommended to cook yam until it is soft and tender, for example, as yam porridge or mashed yam. Greasy cooking methods such as frying should be avoided. Additionally, portion control is important; consumption should start with small amounts and gradually increase as appropriate.

Besides incorporating yam into the diet, patients should also avoid high-fat, high-lipid, and high-sugar foods such as fatty meats and cream cakes. Instead, they should consume more fresh vegetables, fruits, and high-quality protein sources such as fish and tofu.

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Dr. Gao Jun
May 28, 2025
Is normal saline good for treating skin allergies?

Under normal circumstances, physiological saline may refer to a sodium chloride solution. While sodium chloride solution can provide adjunctive benefits for skin allergies, it cannot provide a definitive cure. If the skin is broken or infected, anti-infective treatment should be used in combination. The analysis is as follows:

Sodium chloride solution can gently remove allergens, dirt, and secretions from the skin surface, reducing irritation. At the same time, it provides a moist environment through wet compresses, alleviating discomfort caused by dryness. Its osmotic pressure is similar to that of human extracellular fluid, which can reduce local swelling and burning sensations, and relieve itching. However, attention should be paid to the duration of wet compresses to avoid excessive hydration that could damage the skin barrier. Skin allergies are an overreaction of the immune system to allergens and require comprehensive intervention. Using sodium chloride solution alone cannot block contact with allergens or modulate the immune response; combination with other treatments is necessary.

If symptoms persist or worsen, medications such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine tablets, and desonide cream should be used under medical supervision. If blisters, exudation, or difficulty breathing occur, immediate medical attention is required to evaluate for contact dermatitis, urticaria, and other conditions. Allergen testing may be necessary in some cases.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 28, 2025
Is skin purpura a sign of leukemia?

Dermatological purpura refers to the appearance of purplish-red spots or bruises on the skin and does not necessarily indicate leukemia. The analysis is as follows:

Patients with leukemia may develop skin purpura due to abnormal bone marrow hematopoietic function leading to reduced platelet production and a tendency to bleed. However, various other conditions can also cause purpura. For example, allergic purpura occurs when the body has an allergic reaction to certain substances, increasing capillary permeability and fragility, which leads to bleeding into the skin and the formation of purpura.

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is caused by a decrease in platelet count or abnormal platelet function, resulting in coagulation disorders and skin bruising. Additionally, abnormalities in blood vessel wall function or deficiencies in coagulation factors may also lead to similar symptoms.

If a child develops skin purpura, it is important to seek medical attention promptly for blood tests, coagulation function assessments, platelet function tests, and possibly bone marrow aspiration if necessary, to determine the underlying cause.

Prior to seeing a doctor, avoid strenuous physical activity in the child to prevent trauma and worsening of bleeding. Monitor closely for any expansion of the purpura or the appearance of new bleeding spots.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 28, 2025
Does eating soy sauce frequently cause the skin to darken?

There is generally no basis for the claim that "eating soy sauce frequently will darken the skin." Regular consumption of soy sauce does not directly lead to darker skin. The analysis is as follows:

Although soy sauce has a dark color, its main components are amino acids, sugars, salt, and others. After consumption and digestion, these components do not directly affect melanocytes in the skin. Human skin color is primarily determined by genetic factors and the body's own melanin, and is not directly related to diet. Soy sauce does not contain melanin or any other components that can influence skin color. Prolonged sun exposure increases the activity of tyrosinase, accelerating melanin production, which may lead to skin darkening.

To prevent skin darkening, it is important to focus on sun protection, such as applying sunscreen and using umbrellas when outdoors, to reduce the skin's exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Maintaining a balanced diet daily and consuming more fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C and vitamin E, such as oranges, kiwifruit, and nuts, is also beneficial. These nutrients help inhibit melanin production and provide antioxidant effects.

Soy sauce contains relatively high levels of salt, and excessive consumption may negatively affect health—for example, leading to increased blood pressure. Therefore, it is recommended to consume soy sauce in moderation.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 28, 2025
Precautions for Measuring Blood Sugar at the Hospital

In general, when going to the hospital to measure blood glucose, the following precautions should be observed: fasting requirements, maintaining a calm mindset, disinfection and preparation, correct operation, and recording data.

1. Fasting requirements: If testing for fasting blood glucose, you should fast for at least 8 hours, usually recommended in the morning. Avoid eating and drinking to ensure accurate results.

2. Calm mindset: Avoid emotional fluctuations, relax your body, and refrain from strenuous exercise, as these may affect blood glucose levels.

3. Disinfection and preparation: Before measurement, ensure your hands are clean. Use alcohol or a disinfectant swab to thoroughly disinfect your fingers and the lancet to reduce the risk of infection.

4. Correct operation: Follow the instructions of your doctor or nurse, use a blood glucose meter produced by a reputable manufacturer, ensure the test strips and device are functioning properly, and use the second drop of blood for testing.

5. Record data: After each test, record the result and the time to help your doctor better understand changes in your blood glucose levels.

Following these precautions can ensure a smooth blood glucose testing process and more accurate, reliable results.

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Dr. Liu Feng
May 28, 2025
Is blood sugar high or low when hungry?

Blood sugar levels during hunger mainly depend on the degree of hunger. If it's mild hunger, blood sugar typically decreases, but in cases of severe hunger, blood sugar might rise.

When the body experiences mild hunger, blood sugar levels generally drop. At this time, the body's energy reserves are insufficient, and there is not enough glucose to break down and provide energy, leading to a decrease in blood sugar levels. This is a normal physiological phenomenon, and blood sugar can be stabilized by appropriately consuming food to replenish energy.

However, when food is withheld for extended periods, resulting in severe hunger, blood sugar levels initially drop. To maintain normal physiological functions, the body initiates a series of reactions to raise blood sugar. The liver converts stored glycogen into glucose and releases it into the bloodstream. At the same time, insulin secretion decreases, while the secretion of hormones such as glucagon and adrenaline increases, promoting the conversion of fats and amino acids from muscles into glucose. This process is called gluconeogenesis, and elevated blood sugar levels may be observed.

It is recommended to maintain regular and balanced eating habits daily. If abnormal blood sugar levels frequently occur during hunger, seek medical attention promptly for relevant examinations and treatment.

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Dr. Liu Feng
May 28, 2025
Does Perilla reduce blood sugar?

Generally, perilla has a certain auxiliary effect in lowering blood sugar, but it cannot directly reduce blood glucose levels.

Perilla is rich in nutrients, such as vitamins, dietary fiber, and various mineral elements. These components positively influence overall health and blood sugar management. They can promote gastrointestinal motility, aid in the elimination of metabolic waste, and thereby help reduce blood lipids and blood pressure to some extent. Additionally, substances in perilla such as perillaldehyde can stimulate pancreatic β-cells to secrete insulin, which is the primary hormone responsible for lowering blood sugar, thus providing auxiliary support in reducing blood glucose.

However, the blood sugar-lowering effect of perilla is not significant. Diabetic patients should not rely solely on perilla to control their blood sugar but should undergo standardized treatment under a doctor's guidance, along with maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in moderate exercise, and using medication when necessary, in order to achieve stable blood glucose levels. Perilla can be used as an auxiliary approach, consumed in appropriate amounts while ensuring safety.

In daily life, individuals with high blood sugar should also regularly monitor their blood glucose levels and promptly adjust their lifestyle to help maintain good health.

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Dr. Liu Feng
May 28, 2025
Why Should Women Going Through Menopause Avoid Blood Donation?

Menopausal women experience a gradual decline in ovarian function, leading to reduced levels of estrogen and progesterone. This hormonal change may cause symptoms such as menstrual irregularities and mood swings. Blood donation during this period might exacerbate these symptoms and have adverse effects on women's health.

Blood donation temporarily reduces blood volume and iron levels in the body. Menopausal women, due to hormonal changes, may already be at risk of anemia or iron deficiency, and blood donation could worsen these conditions. Additionally, the blood of menopausal women may contain more impurities and medication residues, as they may be taking certain medications for symptom management. These factors can compromise blood quality, making it unsuitable for donation.

Menopausal women may have less efficient physiological regulatory mechanisms compared to younger individuals, and therefore may require a longer recovery time after blood donation. They may also be more prone to fatigue or weakness following donation.

Women in this stage are advised to assess their health status under a physician's guidance and carefully consider whether to participate in blood donation activities. Under any circumstances, it is important to have a thorough understanding of one's health condition before donating blood.

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Dr. Liu Feng
May 28, 2025