Understanding Lung Nodules: What Your CT Scan Results Mean
Lung computed tomography (CT) scan shows a nodule? Dear Doctor: I had a CT scan of my lungs, and the report results are as follows: I see there is a nodule, and I am very worried... Can you explain how a nodule (0.3cm, se3/im52) could occur? Shouldn't normal individuals typi...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Eason: Not all nodules are bad; it depends on their characteristics, such as whether they are solid, among other factors. A size of 0.3 cm is usually benign, and follow-up after one year is typically sufficient. The causes are often due to scarring from previous infections o...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: What Your CT Scan Results Mean
Understanding Lung CT Findings: Ground-Glass Nodules and Next Steps
CT report of pulmonary issues? Imaging findings: The MDCT of the chest was performed without intravenous contrast medium enhancement and revealed the following: The lung parenchyma is well demonstrated with some ground-glass opacities in both lungs. The bilateral mainstem bronchi...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Lu: A 2.2 cm tumor that is indeed removed is a good thing; the absence of lymph node involvement is a positive sign, indicating that there has been no metastasis. To rule out distant metastasis, a PET scan can be performed for early detection, which can be managed effectivel...[Read More] Understanding Lung CT Findings: Ground-Glass Nodules and Next Steps
Understanding Lung Nodules: Key Questions and Follow-Up Recommendations
Nodule issues? 1. In the report, SRS stands for "Spiculated Radiographic Score," which is a measure used to assess the characteristics of pulmonary nodules, while IM stands for "Imaging Measurement," which refers to the size or density measurements of the nodu...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Kai: The numbers you mentioned refer to the specific slice and image seen by the radiologist; they don't hold particular significance and are merely indicative of the location. The frequency of examinations depends on risk factors such as smoking history, family history...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Key Questions and Follow-Up Recommendations
Managing Chronic Throat Dryness and Excess Mucus: Seeking Solutions
Chronic throat dryness (slight pain), excessive white phlegm (without blood). No cough, no chest tightness or pain? Hello Doctor: During my high school years, I experienced a persistent cough that lasted for at least a month, prompting me to see a doctor. After some time, I was t...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear ANNA: The symptoms you described can be caused by post-nasal drip and gastroesophageal reflux. Since you have already taken so many medications, it is advisable to refrain from further medication and to relax. Ensuring adequate sleep may help improve your condition. Changhua...[Read More] Managing Chronic Throat Dryness and Excess Mucus: Seeking Solutions
Understanding Low-Dose CT Scan Reports: What Do Findings Mean?
Questions about Low-Dose CT Lung Report Hello, Director: I recently received a report from a low-dose lung CT screening stating "multiple areas of consolidation in the right middle lobe, suspicious for pneumonia or mass." I would like to ask if this refers to a solid sh...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
DEAR Jason: There are multiple areas of consolidation in the right middle lobe, suspected pneumonia or mass. Please return to Changhua Hospital for a follow-up examination as soon as possible. We care about you.[Read More] Understanding Low-Dose CT Scan Reports: What Do Findings Mean?
Understanding Low-Dose CT Lung Reports: What Do Findings Mean?
Questions about Low-Dose CT Lung Report Hello, Director: I recently received a report from a low-dose lung CT screening stating "multiple areas of consolidation in the right middle lobe, suspected pneumonia or mass." I would like to ask if this refers to a solid shadow ...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Jason: The report indicates multiple areas of consolidation in the right middle lobe, suspected pneumonia or mass. It is advised to seek medical attention at Changhua Hospital as soon as possible. We care about your health.[Read More] Understanding Low-Dose CT Lung Reports: What Do Findings Mean?
Understanding Elevated ECP Levels: What It Means for Chronic Cough Management
Chronic cough I previously had a severe cough and visited a large hospital for consultation. After several visits and blood tests, I was supposed to return for a follow-up appointment to review the results. However, on the day of the follow-up, my child fell ill, and since my cou...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Apple: The reference value for Eosinophil Cationic Protein (ECP) is < 13.3, which indicates that eosinophils are associated with inflammatory responses caused by various allergic diseases, particularly in patients with asthma. In the inflamed tissues of asthma patients, e...[Read More] Understanding Elevated ECP Levels: What It Means for Chronic Cough Management
Understanding Chest Pain and Cough: Seeking Effective Treatment Options
Chest pain/chest tightness/shortness of breath & cough/medication consultation Hello, Doctor. Since around the middle of last year, I have been experiencing severe coughing at night/midnight, which I initially thought was due to an unresolved cold (I returned from Europe at t...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear K: I apologize for the delayed response due to the holiday. Based on your symptom description, it is likely that you have atypical asthma. However, the treatment approach needs to be adjusted. You can start with inhaled corticosteroids for control, or you may visit the outpa...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Cough: Seeking Effective Treatment Options
Breathing Issues from Mixing Cleaning Products: What to Do?
The issue of being overwhelmed by the smell of cleaning products? Hello doctor, due to the need for cleaning, I mixed several cleaning agents such as bleach and other cleaners. Today, I neglected to wear a mask, and after adding water, a very uncomfortable, foul, and extremely ir...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Xiang: Inhalation injuries from chemical substances require assessment of clinical symptoms. Typically, observation for 1-2 weeks is recommended, during which you can practice coughing and deep breathing to minimize lung damage. If discomfort persists, you may visit a pulmon...[Read More] Breathing Issues from Mixing Cleaning Products: What to Do?
Understanding Pathology Reports for Minimally Invasive Lung Adenocarcinoma
Questions regarding the pathology report of lung adenocarcinoma? Hello Doctor: After undergoing low-dose lung cancer screening, I was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma. At the beginning of the month, I had a thoracoscopic resection of the tumor, and the doctor informed me that i...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Chen Ling: In terms of tumor size, it is classified as carcinoma in situ. It has been excised, and follow-up is sufficient. There is no need for excessive worry. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Pathology Reports for Minimally Invasive Lung Adenocarcinoma
Concerns About Blood in Sputum: A Long-Term Smoker's Health Risks
My father is a long-term smoker and has issues with phlegm? Good morning, Director Huang. I apologize for disturbing you during your busy schedule, but I have a question I hope you can answer quickly. My father is a long-time smoker and has been experiencing chronic coughing and ...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Ah Wei, I hope this message finds you well. As a long-time smoker, regardless of whether you have any symptoms, it is advisable to undergo a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan since lung cancer is currently the leading type of cancer. The government offers subsidies fo...[Read More] Concerns About Blood in Sputum: A Long-Term Smoker's Health Risks
Understanding Chest Pain When Breathing: Causes and Concerns
Chest pain when breathing? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing some health issues that started a few years ago, but I didn't pay much attention to them until now. After watching some health-related programs, I have become quite concerned. Sometimes, I suddenly feel a tear...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Student Li: Based on your age, the likelihood of malignancy is very low. The symptoms you described are more indicative of respiratory pain caused by airway allergic reactions. As for the arrhythmia, you can visit a cardiologist for an electrocardiogram to assess your condit...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain When Breathing: Causes and Concerns
Long-Term Use of Duasma: Risks of Glaucoma and Eye Pressure
Duasma (Dushuman) Issues Hello doctor, due to my asthma, the doctor prescribed Duasma for me. He mentioned that long-term use would not have significant issues because the dosage is low. However, the medication's information does mention side effects such as glaucoma or incr...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Mr. Liu: It is true that the main ingredient of Duasma is a steroid, but because it is inhaled, the amount is indeed very small. The warning is merely a reminder; the actual likelihood of occurrence is minimal and only relevant if there are specific issues. You may refer to ...[Read More] Long-Term Use of Duasma: Risks of Glaucoma and Eye Pressure
Concerns About Lung Nodules: What You Need to Know
Worrisome pulmonary nodules Hello, Director Huang. Thank you for your valuable time. I do not smoke and occasionally cook. During my health check in February, a pulmonary nodule was discovered, and the follow-up results this month are as follows: IMP: 1. Regressive change of cavi...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Ms. Wu: The micronodule still requires careful monitoring; it is best to have another examination in six months. A size of 2mm is acceptable. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Concerns About Lung Nodules: What You Need to Know
Understanding Ground-Glass Nodules: Risks and Family History Insights
The retest of the ground-glass opacities is still ongoing? Seventeen years ago, my mother discovered an approximately 8mm ground-glass nodule at the age of 46. She underwent surgery at National Taiwan University Hospital, which confirmed it was stage 0 lung adenocarcinoma (she is...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Kai: Regarding your question, 1. The presence of ground-glass opacities is not a concern; however, we cannot rule out the possibility of other issues, so regular HRCT scans are necessary. 2. For the interpretation of the scans, please consult your physician. 3. If you are un...[Read More] Understanding Ground-Glass Nodules: Risks and Family History Insights
Long-Term Inhalation of Industrial Fumes: Health Risks and Checkups
Long-term inhalation of industrial exhaust gases? Hello Doctor, my father is currently 50 years old and has worked in a factory for 30 years, inhaling industrial oil fumes and exhaust gases. Although the factory is ventilated, I would like to ask you some questions: 1. Should he ...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Xiao Yi: 1. Basically, if there is a history of occupational exposure, regular low-dose computed tomography (CT) follow-ups are necessary. 2. If you smoke, it could be related to smoker's cough; if not, it may be due to allergies or mild obstructive lung disease. Changh...[Read More] Long-Term Inhalation of Industrial Fumes: Health Risks and Checkups
Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: Possible Lung-Related Causes
Chest pain Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing intermittent pain in the middle of my chest recently, with occasional sharp pain lasting 1-2 seconds. Over the past two days, I initially felt a pulling sensation on the outer right side of my chest extending to my armpit, follow...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Anonymous: The symptoms you described are more akin to pain from muscle nerve traction. Please be mindful that when engaging in daily activities that require exertion, it's best to perform warm-up exercises. Additionally, this is unrelated to the 0.5 cm nodule. I recomm...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: Possible Lung-Related Causes
Understanding Wheezing in the Throat: Causes and When to Seek Help
Wheezing in the throat while breathing? Hello doctor, it has been a month since my diagnosis, and recently I have started to experience wheezing in my throat along with nasal discharge. What could be the cause of this, and which department should I visit for treatment? Thank you.
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Mr. Fu: After being diagnosed, it is possible to observe for long COVID. The symptoms you described could also be an allergic reaction. You can seek treatment at the hospital from either the Pulmonology or Otolaryngology departments. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Wheezing in the Throat: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Bilateral Sharp Costophrenic Angles in Chest X-Ray Reports
Bilateral sharp costophrenic angles means that both costophrenic angles, which are the angles formed by the diaphragm Hello, doctor. Recently, after completing chemotherapy, I was hospitalized for surgery. Before my admission, I underwent routine pre-admission tests, including a ...
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Becca: Bilateral sharp costophrenic angles essentially indicate that the angles between the diaphragm and the rib cage on both sides are sharper than usual, which is not a concern. If there are additional findings, there could be a possibility of pleural effusion. Currently,...[Read More] Understanding Bilateral Sharp Costophrenic Angles in Chest X-Ray Reports
Understanding Your Chest X-Ray Report: What Does Bilateral Pulmonary Hilum Prominence Mean?
X-ray report Hello, Director. What does this report mean? Chest: Prominence of the bilateral pulmonary hilum is noted. Otherwise, there is no significant abnormality. Thank you.
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear U: Essentially, this report should be fine. The hilum of the lung contains the pulmonary arteries, veins, lymphatics, and nerves, and any enlargement or protrusion is usually associated with pulmonary hypertension or lymphadenopathy. However, the findings in this report are ...[Read More] Understanding Your Chest X-Ray Report: What Does Bilateral Pulmonary Hilum Prominence Mean?