Breathing Difficulties: Is It Related to Gastroesophageal Reflux?
Feeling of not being able to breathe? Doctor, I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and recently I've been experiencing frequent shortness of breath, feeling like I can't get enough air, which is quite uncomfortable. I had an X-ray about four months ago, and it ...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: A pulmonary function assessment can be performed to determine if there are any impairments.[Read More] Breathing Difficulties: Is It Related to Gastroesophageal Reflux?
Understanding Shortness of Breath: When to Seek Medical Attention
Difficulty breathing? I have occasionally experienced difficulty breathing, which requires me to take deep breaths to feel more comfortable, but I didn't think much of it. Recently, this situation has been happening quite often, and I feel a sense of emptiness in my airways,...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: It is recommended to have a chest X-ray and pulmonary function tests performed by a pulmonologist.[Read More] Understanding Shortness of Breath: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Pain Below the Rib Cage: Causes and Relief Strategies
Pain at the lower rib margin and diaphragm area? Hello, Doctor: Last week, I experienced full-body spasms due to hyperventilation and was taken to the hospital. After being discharged, I noticed that the area around my lower ribs and diaphragm has been sore for several days. Some...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: The chest X-ray is normal, and it is likely that the pain is due to muscle spasms resulting in neuromuscular pain. Applying heat to relax the muscles should be effective.[Read More] Understanding Pain Below the Rib Cage: Causes and Relief Strategies
Persistent Cough: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Effective Treatment
Persistent cough? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my condition. I have been suffering from a cold since before the Lunar New Year, and it hasn't completely resolved yet. To summarize my symptoms, I initially had a cough and nasal congestion, with yellowish-green phl...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: A consultation with the pulmonology department will be conducted to reassess for conditions such as asthma and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).[Read More] Persistent Cough: Understanding Symptoms and Seeking Effective Treatment
Can Beer and Betel Nut Aid Pneumothorax Recovery? Exploring the Myths
There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that beer or betel nut can aid in the recovery from pneumothorax. Pneumothorax is a medical condition that requires appropriate treatment, and it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper management? Hello doc...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: There is no such theory; we still need to monitor the chest X-ray to see if there is any improvement.[Read More] Can Beer and Betel Nut Aid Pneumothorax Recovery? Exploring the Myths
Understanding Bronchitis: Contagion Risks, Dietary Tips, and Exercise Guidelines
Bronchitis Hello, doctor. I am currently suffering from bronchitis triggered by a cold. I would like to inquire whether bronchitis is easily transmissible to others, as well as some dietary restrictions and recommended foods for bronchitis. Additionally, can I engage in more inte...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: 1. Acute bronchitis is not contagious to others. 2. Drink plenty of water; it is generally advised to avoid citrus and pear, which are considered cold fruits, and do not engage in intense exercise. 3. If a cough persists, a chest X-ray and pulmonary function tests should b...[Read More] Understanding Bronchitis: Contagion Risks, Dietary Tips, and Exercise Guidelines
Chronic Cough: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation?
Coughing for several years? I have a history of nasal allergies, and previous visits to the doctor indicated that my chest X-ray was normal. I underwent pulmonary function tests in middle school, which showed that I have allergic asthma. I often experience post-nasal drip and hav...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: It may be worth exploring treatment for asthma and consulting a pulmonologist.[Read More] Chronic Cough: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation?
Understanding High Cancer Markers: Is It Lung Cancer or Something Else?
Elevated cancer markers? Hello Doctor: My mother experienced massive hemoptysis ten years ago and was hospitalized, where she was diagnosed with bronchiectasis. She underwent surgery to remove part of her lung and was found to have pulmonary tuberculosis, which she completed trea...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: Monitor the CT scan to see if there is any enlargement, and then perform a biopsy.[Read More] Understanding High Cancer Markers: Is It Lung Cancer or Something Else?
Chest Pain, Coughing, and Breathing Issues: Seeking the Right Specialist
Chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and productive cough with phlegm? Recently, I went to the hospital for an examination. I have been experiencing a tight pain in the center of my chest, coughing with a small amount of yellow phlegm, difficulty breathing, tightness and sorene...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: 1. Consult a pulmonologist, first assess with a chest X-ray and then evaluate lung function. 2. Cardiology assessment.[Read More] Chest Pain, Coughing, and Breathing Issues: Seeking the Right Specialist
Is It Coughing? Understanding Throat Clearing and Health Risks
Is this considered a cough? Is the action of slowly sucking phlegm out of my throat considered coughing? A few months ago, I had an X-ray done, and there were no issues. Previously, I had been forcefully coughing up blood-tinged sputum, and once I had blood-tinged foam. Recently,...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: 1. I regret it and am afraid, so I will quit smoking. After quitting, my physical condition will improve. 2. Is there post-nasal drip? A chest X-ray (CXR) should be done to check for any issues. Coughing forcefully may cause bleeding; a CT scan should be performed if neces...[Read More] Is It Coughing? Understanding Throat Clearing and Health Risks
Severe Chest Pain Between Lungs: Possible Causes and Concerns
Severe pain in the center of the chest between the lungs? Three days ago, I woke up feeling chest pain. At first, I thought it wasn't a big deal, so I went to work. However, the pain has persisted for three days and is still present today. It worsens with intense physical ac...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: It may be costochondritis; a chest X-ray can be performed to check for any issues with the lungs.[Read More] Severe Chest Pain Between Lungs: Possible Causes and Concerns
Persistent Cough for Five Months: Seeking Answers After 20 Doctor Visits
I have been coughing for five months and have seen over 20 doctors, yet it still hasn't improved? Hello Doctor: I have been coughing since early March and have seen a doctor for the first time. I have continued to see doctors for examinations, and I have seen more than 20 do...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: At the age of 24, the likelihood of developing lung adenocarcinoma is low. Symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also be one of the causes of chronic cough. It is important to consider whether the cough is related to occupational exposure. Pulmonary functi...[Read More] Persistent Cough for Five Months: Seeking Answers After 20 Doctor Visits
Understanding Recurring Bruising and Pain After Chest Tube Placement
Postoperative care for pneumothorax? Due to a car accident, there is a "hemothorax" that was treated with a drainage tube. It has been 4 months since the procedure, and the scar at the insertion site is just a thin line. However, there is recurrent bruising around the a...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: The incision from a standard intubation is usually small, and repeated bruising and pain are not normal responses. It is advisable to consult the original attending physician for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Recurring Bruising and Pain After Chest Tube Placement
Understanding the Connection Between Pleural Effusion and Tuberculosis
Lung issues In the past, someone in the class was diagnosed with tuberculosis, so the health department issued a notice for us to get checked. Last year, my test results were normal, but this year, it was found that there is a "suspected pleural effusion in the left lower lu...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: The statement "suspected pleural effusion in the left lower lung" refers to either pulmonary infiltration or pleural effusion, and it may be necessary to perform an ultrasound to check for pleural effusion.[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Pleural Effusion and Tuberculosis
Understanding Flu Symptoms: Chest Pain and Abdominal Issues Explained
Influenza, chest, and abdominal issues? Hello doctor, a few days ago I went to the clinic and was diagnosed with influenza. I was prescribed medication, including antibiotics. After that, my fever subsided, and my body aches improved. My cough and runny nose also got better, but ...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: Severe coughing can lead to chest pain and abdominal pain. If there are concerns about pneumonia, a chest X-ray can be performed to rule it out. Additionally, antibiotics can also cause diarrhea, which should improve after discontinuing the medication.[Read More] Understanding Flu Symptoms: Chest Pain and Abdominal Issues Explained
Acute vs Chronic Bronchitis: Understanding Your Symptoms and Diagnosis
Is this acute bronchitis or chronic bronchitis? Since I developed bronchitis after a cold in college, I have had issues with my bronchial tubes whenever I catch a cold. However, in the past couple of years, it seems that when I cough from a cold, it takes about two weeks or more ...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: It leans towards chronic bronchitis, and it may be necessary to check for underlying causes such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).[Read More] Acute vs Chronic Bronchitis: Understanding Your Symptoms and Diagnosis
Is It Really Asthma? Understanding Your Diagnosis and Lung Function Tests
Unsure if it is asthma? Hello, I was diagnosed by a doctor with moderate persistent asthma. I have symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and producing phlegm, but I haven't undergone any actual tests. Today, I had a pulmonary function test, which came back normal. Does this m...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
It may not be the case, but the diagnosis should be combined with clinical symptoms. During an episode, the decision should be made based on whether there is an improvement in lung function after inhaling a bronchodilator.[Read More] Is It Really Asthma? Understanding Your Diagnosis and Lung Function Tests
Understanding Coughing Up Blood: When to Seek Medical Attention
Evaluation for Hemoptysis Hello Doctor, I usually have bronchial issues and often experience coughing for one to two months, especially when I stay up late and my immune system is compromised. A doctor has diagnosed me with asthma symptoms. Two weeks ago, I had cold symptoms, inc...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Hello: Severe coughing may result in blood-tinged sputum. The sensitivity of low-dose computed tomography (CT) is better than that of a chest X-ray. It is recommended to undergo low-dose CT to check for any subtle changes.[Read More] Understanding Coughing Up Blood: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Chest X-Ray Results: What Does 'All Good' Really Mean?
Lung issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my health check-up today. I had a chest X-ray, and during the consultation, I asked the doctor if there were any issues. He mentioned that everything was fine, but I am wondering what "fine" means—does it imply there ...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
A chest X-ray should be performed to help explain whether there are any issues and if further examination is necessary. It's generally okay if it's straightforward, but it's unclear what the physician is referring to.[Read More] Understanding Chest X-Ray Results: What Does 'All Good' Really Mean?
Understanding Nighttime Chest Pain: Causes and Solutions
Chest pain while sleeping? Between 11 PM and 1 AM, I experience sudden, intense chest pain, as if someone is hitting my heart. I can hear my heart beating rapidly, and breathing doesn't help; I can only wait for the pain to subside. This episode lasts for about 3 to 5 minute...
Dr. Wu Yingxun reply Pulmonology
Consult a cardiologist to check for issues such as mitral valve prolapse or arrhythmias.[Read More] Understanding Nighttime Chest Pain: Causes and Solutions