Understanding Chest Pain and Shoulder Discomfort: Possible Causes and Concerns
Chest pain and shoulder pain? Hello doctor, I have recently been experiencing chest tightness, sharp pain along the edges of my ribs, and pain in my back and right shoulder. I had an X-ray in May of this year which showed: No active lung lesions, normal heart size, symmetry of bo...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: Early-stage lung cancer typically does not show rapid changes on a chest X-ray, but there are many blind spots that may not be visible. A chest computed tomography (CT) scan can be performed; however, since the chest X-ray appears normal, health insurance may not cover the...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Shoulder Discomfort: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Rib Pain: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Pain upon palpation below the rib cage? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing localized pain under my rib cage for the past three days. It hurts when I press on it or when I stretch. The pain is specifically located in the middle, slightly to the left, beneath the ribs. I would...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: It may be pain from the chest wall tissues, including fascia, muscles, nerves, cartilage, and ribs. Please consult a pulmonologist.[Read More] Understanding Rib Pain: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Understanding Your Breathing Issues: Is It COPD or Mild Asthma?
I often feel anxious because I can't catch my breath. I'm afraid it might be COPD or obstructive pneumonia? Hello, doctor. I am very grateful for your help in addressing my recent experience of feeling unable to take a full breath. I often feel the urge to take deep bre...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: Based on the description, it may be asthma, and currently, there is no COPD. Please quit smoking as soon as possible and follow up at the pulmonology outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Your Breathing Issues: Is It COPD or Mild Asthma?
Understanding Chest Discomfort After Food Aspiration: When to Seek Help
Grain obstruction? Hello Dr. Jian: On May 29, while having dinner, I accidentally inhaled a grain of rice, which did not go down the correct path. After the meal, I became more aware of this phenomenon. At that moment, I actively initiated a cough, hoping to expel it. During the ...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: You can first go to the pulmonology department for a chest X-ray, and then consult with the pulmonologist on how to proceed with follow-up care.[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort After Food Aspiration: When to Seek Help
Understanding Low Temperature and Pain in the Left Chest Upon Waking
Lower body temperature in the left chest upon waking? Hello, recently when I wake up and get up, I experience a sudden pain in my left chest. When I touch my left chest, I notice that the temperature is lower than normal, while the temperature in other areas is normal. After a wh...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: It may be a sympathetic nervous system issue; you can visit a thoracic specialist or a neurologist for further examination.[Read More] Understanding Low Temperature and Pain in the Left Chest Upon Waking
Risks of Silica Exposure During Home Renovation: What You Need to Know
Inhalation of dust at the construction site? Hello, doctor. Recently, I inhaled a large amount of dust at a construction site 3 to 4 times without wearing a mask due to home renovations. I would like to ask if the dust at the site contains silica, is there a possibility of develo...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: Large inhalation may lead to acute conditions. 1. Silicosis, which can be detected on chest X-ray (CXR). 2. Long-term inhalation can result in silicosis, with some cases stabilizing while others may continue to worsen, requiring regular follow-up.[Read More] Risks of Silica Exposure During Home Renovation: What You Need to Know
Understanding Left Upper Back Pain and Chest Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Left upper back pain and chest tightness or chest pain? Hello doctor, I’m not sure if it’s because I haven’t exercised for a long time, but after starting some light exercise, I woke up the next day with sudden chest tightness and pain in the upper left back, accompanied by diffi...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: Based on the described symptoms, there could be many possibilities. It is important to rule out issues related to the heart, lungs, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Please consult a pulmonologist for further evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Left Upper Back Pain and Chest Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Targeted Therapy Options for Advanced Lung Cancer with Brain Metastasis
Regarding targeted therapies? Hello, my mother was diagnosed with stage IV lung adenocarcinoma in May 2022, with ALK gene mutation detected. Initially, she was treated with Lorbrena (lorlatinib), which controlled the disease fairly well. However, in February 2023, she began exper...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: 1. The effectiveness of Lurbinectedin is not very good; can I switch to Anlotinib? A: Lurbinectedin is a third-generation drug, while Anlotinib is a second-generation drug, and there are no direct comparative studies between the two. If you have previously taken another se...[Read More] Targeted Therapy Options for Advanced Lung Cancer with Brain Metastasis
Assessing Lung Biopsy Risks for Elderly Patients with Emphysema
Lung biopsy issues? Hello Doctor, my father has a history of smoking for many years and has emphysema. He regularly visits a pulmonologist. During a recent routine X-ray examination, the doctor informed us that there is a white area in the upper left lung that appears to be incre...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: 1. If a definitive diagnosis is needed, a biopsy may be necessary; please discuss with the attending physician if there are any alternative options. 2. At 87 years old, a biopsy does carry certain risks, but they are usually not excessively high; please consult with the at...[Read More] Assessing Lung Biopsy Risks for Elderly Patients with Emphysema
Understanding a 0.6cm Lung Nodule: What You Need to Know
Pulmonary nodule measuring 0.6 cm? Hello, doctor! Recently, a health check at my company revealed a shadow in my lungs, and a CT scan at a major hospital confirmed a 0.6 cm nodule in my right lung. The doctor suggested that I observe it for three months and then have another CT s...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: The described 0.6 cm nodule could be benign or an early-stage lung cancer. Please follow up with a CT scan in 3 months and discuss the details further with your attending physician.[Read More] Understanding a 0.6cm Lung Nodule: What You Need to Know
Duration, Causes, and Treatments for Pleural Effusion and Kidney Inflammation
Pleural effusion and kidney inflammation treatment duration, causes, and treatment methods. Thank you, doctor? Hello, doctor! I have a few questions I would like to ask. I have a classmate who is the same age as me and is experiencing health issues. Out of curiosity, I want to in...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: 1. Fever may indicate pneumonia with pleural effusion. Treatment duration: uncomplicated pneumonia with pleural effusion is typically 7-14 days; complicated pneumonia with pleural effusion may require 14-28 days or even 42 days. 2. It is important to identify the underlyin...[Read More] Duration, Causes, and Treatments for Pleural Effusion and Kidney Inflammation
Understanding Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Chest pain issues? Hello doctor, a few days ago, I suddenly experienced pain under my right chest for no apparent reason. It has been persistent for 4 to 5 days. I haven't had any trauma, but pressing on the area causes pain. It also hurts when I take a deep breath, raise my...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: Based on the description, it seems more like muscular pain. Please consult a pulmonologist. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Burning Sensation in the Left Chest: Causes and Concerns
Burning sensation on the left lateral chest? Hello doctor, recently I've been experiencing a burning sensation in the upper outer part of my left chest when I rub it, or when I make sudden movements. I've also been feeling more tense in my body lately. Could this condit...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: It is recommended to consult a pulmonologist or a neurologist to clarify the cause.[Read More] Burning Sensation in the Left Chest: Causes and Concerns
Asbestos Concerns: Health Risks and Safety Measures for Residents
Asbestos fiber-related issues? Hello, Dr. Jian. I have lived in an old apartment since childhood and noticed that the roof directly opposite my balcony, which is 4 meters away, was made of asbestos tiles (approximately 30 ping). About 5 or 6 years ago, it was suddenly replaced wi...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: 1. During construction, there may be asbestos fibers present; if no further asbestos work is conducted, there should be no release of asbestos fibers. 2. For contaminated environments or objects, cleaning with a vacuum cleaner is sufficient. 3. If asbestos fibers have been...[Read More] Asbestos Concerns: Health Risks and Safety Measures for Residents
Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Chest issues Hello Doctor: Recently, I've been sitting for too long and occasionally get up to stretch my body. The day before I noticed the symptoms, I had a good laugh, but I held it in because I was afraid of being too loud. Today, when I stand up straight, I feel a sligh...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: It may be muscular pain. Please visit the thoracic medicine outpatient clinic for a diagnosis confirmation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Clear and Dark Fluid Discharge from the Left Nipple: Causes and Concerns
The appearance of clear or dark fluid from the left nipple when squeezed can be attributed to several potential causes. These may include: 1. **Galactorrhea**: This is a condition characterized by the inappropriate production of milk or milk-like fluid, which can occur in both m...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: There are many reasons for nipple discharge, which may include mastitis, breast tumors, or endocrine issues. Please consult a breast surgeon or an obstetrician-gynecologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Clear and Dark Fluid Discharge from the Left Nipple: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Respiratory Issues: Dry Throat and Breathing Difficulties
Respiratory issues Hello, doctor! Recently, due to work, I've often been going to bed around 4 or 5 AM and then getting up to work at 10 AM. I feel that my throat has been particularly dry, and even drinking water doesn't help much. When I take a deep breath, it feels l...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: 1. A dry throat is likely due to throat inflammation. 2. Difficulty breathing can have many causes, including bronchitis, pneumothorax, gastroesophageal reflux, or a cold. It is advisable to consult a pulmonologist for diagnosis and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Respiratory Issues: Dry Throat and Breathing Difficulties
Understanding COVID-19 Breakthrough Infections and Long-Term Effects
COVID-19, virus-related issues? Hello, doctor. Although I have received three doses of the vaccine, I recently experienced a breakthrough infection and I'm unsure who transmitted it to me. Today is my last day of quarantine, but I am still coughing severely, with blood-strea...
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: 1. To determine if there are irreversible changes in the lungs, please consult a pulmonologist. You may start with a standard chest X-ray and pulmonary function tests, after which the pulmonologist will decide if further examinations are necessary. 2. Currently, there are ...[Read More] Understanding COVID-19 Breakthrough Infections and Long-Term Effects
Understanding Bronchitis: Symptoms, Fever, and Throat Pain Explained
Bronchitis Is it normal to still have a fever, rapid heartbeat, and a sore throat with significant pain and bad breath on the second day of bronchitis? I did a rapid test and it was positive, and the X-ray on the first day indicated bronchitis.
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: In the course of COVID-19 infection, it is important to monitor for symptoms such as shortness of breath, increased heart rate, and blood oxygen levels. If the heart rate remains above 110-120 beats per minute and blood oxygen saturation is below 94%, medical attention sho...[Read More] Understanding Bronchitis: Symptoms, Fever, and Throat Pain Explained
Understanding Suspicious Lung Nodules: What Your X-Ray Results Mean
Suspected pulmonary nodule or pseudolesion in the left upper lung? Health check report: The X-ray shows abnormalities, with a suspected lung nodule or artifact in the left upper lung. Follow-up is recommended in 6 months. What does this mean? Is it serious?
Dr. Jian Shuntian reply Pulmonology
Hello: It is suspected that there may be a nodule, but it is not yet confirmed. It is recommended to undergo a chest computed tomography (CT) scan. Thank you, Jian Shun Tian.[Read More] Understanding Suspicious Lung Nodules: What Your X-Ray Results Mean