Understanding Emphysema: Night Sweats and Vaccination Concerns
Emphysema Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you about my father (81 years old) who has emphysema. He experiences fever and sweating at night (sometimes during the day as well). Blood tests show no signs of infection. I am wondering if this condition is related to his emphysema. ...
Dr. Xu Jialin reply Pulmonology
Patients with emphysema experience increased respiratory effort, which consumes a significant amount of calories and energy, leading to symptoms such as sweating or a sensation of body heat, although their actual body temperature does not indicate a fever. The influenza vaccine p...[Read More] Understanding Emphysema: Night Sweats and Vaccination Concerns
Understanding Severe Lung Pain: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Lung pain? My husband sometimes experiences lung pain when he doesn't smoke or after drinking alcohol. The pain is severe, making it difficult for him to walk. He refuses to see a doctor. What could be the issue with his lungs? I'm anxious for a quick response.
Dr. Xu Jialin reply Pulmonology
There are many causes of chest pain, including cardiovascular issues, pneumothorax, pneumonia, and lung tumors, among others. It is recommended to visit a hospital for some basic examinations in order to determine the appropriate further management. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Severe Lung Pain: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Does Asthma Cause Dizziness During Attacks? Understanding the Connection
Asthma Dear Doctor: When asthma attacks occur, regardless of whether they are mild or severe, can they cause dizziness? I experience dizziness whenever I feel unwell, and I wonder if this is related to my asthma.
Dr. Xu Jialin reply Pulmonology
During an asthma attack, there may be instances of hyperventilation or hypoxia, both of which can lead to dizziness. However, there are many potential causes of dizziness, including anemia, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, and inner ear balance disorders, among others. There...[Read More] Does Asthma Cause Dizziness During Attacks? Understanding the Connection
Understanding Blood in Sputum: Causes and Diagnostic Insights
Hemoptysis My mother has a persistent cough and experienced hemoptysis at the beginning of the year. Since then, she has been coughing up blood in her first sputum every morning. She has visited several ENT specialists, but no issues were found in her nasopharynx. She also underw...
Dr. Xu Jialin reply Pulmonology
First, it is important to clarify whether the blood is in the saliva or in the sputum. If there is blood in the saliva, it may originate from the nasopharynx or oral cavity, such as nasopharyngeal cancer, gingivitis, or oral cancer, among others. If the blood is in the sputum, it...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Sputum: Causes and Diagnostic Insights
Understanding Benign Pulmonary Granulomas: Symptoms and Next Steps
I would like to ask what granulomas are? In August, my health check-up report indicated that I have a benign "granuloma in the left upper lung." I would like to know what this is. I have frequently experienced some sharp pain in the left chest area. One night, I went to...
Dr. Xu Jialin reply Pulmonology
Granuloma is a pathological diagnosis typically caused by prolonged stimulation of local tissue due to infection or inflammation, leading to the proliferation of fibroblasts and the formation of a benign tumor. In your case, an X-ray has revealed a nodule in the left upper lung, ...[Read More] Understanding Benign Pulmonary Granulomas: Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Spontaneous Pneumothorax: Risks of Wearing Protective Masks
Spontaneous pneumothorax I am currently an active-duty military member, but I experienced a spontaneous pneumothorax before enlisting. During training exercises, I have to wear a protective mask, which makes me feel quite uncomfortable and gives me a sensation of wanting to breat...
Dr. Xu Jialin reply Pulmonology
Previous occurrences of pneumothorax do not affect respiratory function and do not typically result in feelings of breathlessness. However, patients with a history of pneumothorax should be vigilant for signs of recurrence. Therefore, if you experience significant chest pain and ...[Read More] Understanding Spontaneous Pneumothorax: Risks of Wearing Protective Masks
Understanding Asthma: Is Sudden Shortness of Breath a Sign?
Asthma Hello Dr. Hsu: I had asthma when I was younger, but it has been less frequent in recent years. However, sometimes when I sit down and then stand up, I suddenly find it hard to breathe. Is this situation considered an asthma attack? Thank you.
Dr. Xu Jialin reply Pulmonology
Most asthma attacks in patients are triggered by upper respiratory infections, inhalation of allergens, or cold air irritation. However, a small number of patients may experience asthma attacks after exercise. Standing up from a seated position is generally considered a routine d...[Read More] Understanding Asthma: Is Sudden Shortness of Breath a Sign?