What is Hookah? Understanding Its Risks and Availability
What is water pipe smoking? What is water pipe tobacco? Is it available for purchase? Is it harmful? Thank you.
Dr. Xie Weiming reply Smoking Cessation
Sorry! Regarding the issue of water pipes, you may want to inquire with the Tobacco and Alcohol Administration or a cigarette retailer. All types of tobacco are harmful to health.[Read More] What is Hookah? Understanding Its Risks and Availability
Understanding Chest Tightness: Causes and Solutions for Persistent Symptoms
Chest tightness? Hello, Doctor: Recently, I have been suffering from a prolonged cold that hasn't improved. My symptoms include sore throat, cough, phlegm, occasional headaches, and nasal congestion. The most distressing symptom is a heavy feeling in my chest. I have visited...
Dr. Xie Weiming reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Based on the description above, it seems to be an allergic cough, possibly indicating asthma, which could explain the persistent cough and chest tightness. Some asthma medications may cause an increased heart rate. It is recommended to consult a pulmonologist for further e...[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness: Causes and Solutions for Persistent Symptoms
Is Daily Saltwater Gargling Safe for Your Health and Kidneys?
Saltwater gargle? If you gargle with salt water (such as seawater) every morning and evening, will it cause any burden or harm to the body or kidneys in the long term? Thank you for your response!
Dr. Xie Weiming reply Internal Medicine
Rinsing the mouth without swallowing does not impose a burden on the kidneys or cause an increase in systemic osmotic pressure. As long as the oral mucosa is intact and without wounds, there will be no issue of excessive absorption of saline. Please rest assured.[Read More] Is Daily Saltwater Gargling Safe for Your Health and Kidneys?
Understanding Lung Nodules: What You Need to Know and Next Steps
Pulmonary nodule Thank you for taking the time to answer my question amidst your busy schedule. I inadvertently participated in a group health check, and the report I received indicates a suspected 2 cm nodule in my lungs. Does this refer to a tumor? Should I return to my origina...
Dr. Xie Weiming reply Internal Medicine
Hello, internet user: There are many causes for pulmonary nodules, which can range from benign or malignant tumors to simply calcifications of the ribs or pleura. It is essential to carefully examine the chest X-ray, and if necessary, perform a computed tomography (CT) scan for b...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: What You Need to Know and Next Steps
Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Left chest pain Recently, I've been experiencing frequent pain or discomfort in my left chest, especially during exercise, and I'm not sure why.
Dr. Xie Weiming reply Internal Medicine
There are many causes of left chest pain, ranging from serious conditions such as myocardial ischemia, aortic dissection, and pleuritis, to milder issues like myofascial pain syndrome, intercostal neuralgia, herpes zoster, and esophagitis. If the pain worsens with movement or twi...[Read More] Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding How Steroids Work in the Body: A Comprehensive Guide
What are steroids? Could you explain the mechanism of how steroids work in the body?
Dr. Xie Weiming reply Internal Medicine
Hello Mr. Zeng: Steroids, commonly known as American magic pills, are very effective medications but can lead to side effects if used improperly. Their primary function is to suppress the immune response in the body, including the actions of neutrophils, cytokines, and immunoglob...[Read More] Understanding How Steroids Work in the Body: A Comprehensive Guide
Is There a Smoking Cessation Evening Clinic on Tuesdays?
Smoking cessation night clinic Hello, Dr. Hsieh! May I ask if there is still a smoking cessation evening clinic on Tuesday night? Thank you!
Dr. Xie Weiming reply Smoking Cessation
Hello Ms. Huang: There will still be a smoking cessation evening clinic on Tuesday night. Additionally, smoking cessation services are available during the outpatient clinic on Monday afternoon, as well as on Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings. Internal Medicine: Dr. Hsie...[Read More] Is There a Smoking Cessation Evening Clinic on Tuesdays?
Can Asthma Patients with Hypoxia Qualify for Disability Certification?
Hypoxia in patients with asthma? As an asthma patient, a friend suggested that I see a pulmonologist and ask for a certification to apply for a disability handbook. In addition to my asthma, I also have issues with hypoxia and symptoms of mitral valve deficiency and regurgitation...
Dr. Xie Weiming reply Internal Medicine
Hello, Ms. Jan: Whether asthma qualifies for a disability certificate depends on its severity. The disability certificate has detailed regulations and classifications, and it is necessary to conduct pulmonary function tests and blood oxygen measurements to determine eligibility. ...[Read More] Can Asthma Patients with Hypoxia Qualify for Disability Certification?