Understanding Tuberculous Pleural Effusion: Treatment, Transmission, and Duration
excuse me? What is tuberculous pleurisy, how is it treated, is it contagious, and what is the typical duration of treatment?
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, AM: Tuberculous pleuritis (pleural effusion) refers to pleural effusion caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. If sputum tests do not reveal the presence of the tuberculosis bacteria (as some individuals may concurrently have pulmonary tuberculosis), it is no...[Read More] Understanding Tuberculous Pleural Effusion: Treatment, Transmission, and Duration
Can Allergies Trigger Asthma Symptoms in Teens? Expert Insights
Hello, Dr. Yang? Hello, Dr. Yang. I would like to ask about my younger brother (14 years old). He has nasal allergies, and sometimes his eyes itch, which leads to dark circles under his eyes. Recently, for some reason, he has been experiencing nasal congestion, frequent sneezing,...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao Wei: Your brother's symptoms resemble allergic rhinitis combined with nasal congestion and itchy eyes. Due to the nasal blockage, he has to breathe through his mouth. If there is no increased respiratory rate or wheezing sounds (like a cat's meow or a whistl...[Read More] Can Allergies Trigger Asthma Symptoms in Teens? Expert Insights
Understanding Muscle Pain Above the Left Nipple: Causes and Insights
There is a slight cramping pain in the muscle above the left nipple? I have researched online and it seems that there are quite a few people experiencing chest pain. My pain is located above the left nipple, and sometimes I feel a sharp pain that comes on unexpectedly. However, i...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello JJ: Your symptoms are more indicative of neuropathic pain. It is necessary to first obtain an X-ray to rule out any diseases of the thoracic organs. After that, some muscle relaxants and pain relievers can be used to alleviate the symptoms. Additionally, lifestyle changes (...[Read More] Understanding Muscle Pain Above the Left Nipple: Causes and Insights
Understanding Hidden Asthma: Differences from Typical Asthma Symptoms
Latent asthma Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about something. When I was a child, a doctor mentioned that I had "latent asthma," but I didn't quite understand what that meant. How does it differ from regular asthma? Is this term actually used? I only know t...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Dyspnea refers to "difficulty in breathing," which can be caused by various factors including chronic lung diseases, pneumonia, pneumothorax, as well as heart diseases and anemia. Symptoms often worsen during physical activity. "Asthma," correctly termed "...[Read More] Understanding Hidden Asthma: Differences from Typical Asthma Symptoms
Understanding the Final Stages of Pneumonia in Elderly Patients with Tracheostomy
Elderly patients with pneumonia who have long-term tracheostomy may ultimately face several complications that can lead to death. These complications can include respiratory failure, recurrent infections, aspiration pneumonia, and other comorbidities such as heart disease or chro...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello EDDY: Here are my personal insights for your reference: 1. All elderly individuals may potentially face acute conditions such as acute myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, and strokes due to vascular sclerosis and narrowing. 2. Long-term bed rest and the use of ventilators c...[Read More] Understanding the Final Stages of Pneumonia in Elderly Patients with Tracheostomy
Understanding Small Calcified Nodules in the Right Lung Apex: What You Need to Know
What is a small calcified nodule in the right lung apex? Hello, during my company's routine health check this year, a chest X-ray revealed a small calcified nodule in the right lung apex. I would like to ask what this might indicate in terms of medical conditions, and what k...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao Hui: Small calcifications usually represent inactive "scars," which may indicate that there was a past inflammatory lesion in that area (such as localized pneumonia, possibly caused by bacteria, fungi, or tuberculosis) that has healed but left a scar, simila...[Read More] Understanding Small Calcified Nodules in the Right Lung Apex: What You Need to Know
Which Specialist to See for Chest Pain When Eating, Drinking, or Breathing?
I'm sorry, but it If eating, drinking, or breathing causes pain, you should see an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist.
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello Yiting: Your symptoms are more indicative of neuralgia or esophagitis (pain worsened by eating or drinking). I recommend that you first consult a pulmonologist for a chest X-ray to rule out any significant lung or heart conditions. Following that, the physician can assess w...[Read More] Which Specialist to See for Chest Pain When Eating, Drinking, or Breathing?
Chest Pain After Cold: Is It Normal or Time to See a Doctor?
Chest pain after a cold? I have a sensitive trachea, and I’ve been coughing due to a cold for the past two weeks. After recovering from the cold, I noticed pain in the right side of my chest. I feel discomfort when I laugh or sneeze, and getting up quickly also causes pain. I’m n...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Monster: If you are experiencing chest pain from coughing, it is advisable to consult a pulmonologist for a chest X-ray to check for pneumothorax or a fractured rib. Taking some medication may also help alleviate your symptoms. Wishing you well![Read More] Chest Pain After Cold: Is It Normal or Time to See a Doctor?
Struggling to Breathe: A 36-Year-Old's Journey Through Multiple Specialists
Shortness of breath? I am 36 years old and used to smoke about one and a half packs a day. In May of this year, I suddenly felt very short of breath, with a heavy and painful sensation in my chest. I sought medical attention and felt much better after receiving an injection, but ...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Helpless person: First, I would like to confirm if you have quit smoking. If not, it will be difficult to help you! Your condition still resembles allergic rhinitis, which can be triggered by exposure to air conditioning, consuming cold foods or foods with cooling properties (suc...[Read More] Struggling to Breathe: A 36-Year-Old's Journey Through Multiple Specialists
Understanding Chest X-Ray Findings: Granulomas and Health Implications
Health Check Report: Abnormal X-ray Findings Hello Dr. Yang, I received my health check report from last month today, and it indicates a suspected granuloma near the left hilum on the chest X-ray. Is this the same as the fibrotic granuloma that other users have inquired about? Do...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello Aaron: A granuloma is also a type of lung tumor, classified as a benign tumor, but it usually requires a pathological biopsy report to confirm it. The interpreting physician may suggest follow-up in 3-6 months based on indirect evidence leaning towards "benign," s...[Read More] Understanding Chest X-Ray Findings: Granulomas and Health Implications
Persistent Cough and Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Persistent cough and chest pain? Hello Doctor: I started experiencing persistent coughing every night between 11 PM and 1 AM about a week ago, which is more pronounced when lying down compared to other positions. I feel an unbearable itch in my throat around the area between my c...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello Sam: Based on your respiratory history, including a history of pneumothorax, allergic rhinitis, and chest pain (possibly neuropathic pain), if your symptoms are not too severe, you may choose to monitor your condition. It is advisable to drink plenty of warm water and avoid...[Read More] Persistent Cough and Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Understanding Small Nodules in the Lower Lobes of the Lungs
Small nodules in the lower lobes of both lungs? Hello Doctor: My mother is 80 years old, and during this year's health check-up, a small nodule was found in her right lower lung lobe. I also have a small nodule in my left lower lung lobe. What does this mean, and how should ...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, HC2211: The presence of small nodules in the lung lobes may indicate either a benign tumor or an early-stage malignant tumor. Typically, further evaluation with a computed tomography (CT) scan is required, and if necessary, a fine-needle aspiration or biopsy may be perform...[Read More] Understanding Small Nodules in the Lower Lobes of the Lungs
Breathlessness While Speaking: Understanding Your Symptoms and Solutions
Difficulty catching your breath while speaking? Hello Dr. Yang, I had a cold and throat inflammation at the end of last month. After seeking medical attention, my throat has improved. However, recently, while talking with colleagues, I have been experiencing difficulty breathin...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello Xiaohong: Some individuals with allergic rhinitis or asthma may experience exacerbation of their symptoms when exposed to allergens or upper respiratory infections (such as a cold), leading to difficulty breathing or wheezing at night (similar to a cat's meow). The qui...[Read More] Breathlessness While Speaking: Understanding Your Symptoms and Solutions
Understanding Chest Pain When Breathing: Causes and Solutions
Chest pain with breathing? Hello, doctor. My symptoms are: I experience chest pain when breathing, and the pain worsens when swallowing, bending down, or lying down. (The chest pain started after lunch on July 13 and has continued until now.) My questions are: Is there an immedia...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
There are many causes of chest pain. It is recommended that you first see a pulmonologist for a chest X-ray to rule out any lung issues. Then, the physician will assess whether you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) to determine if an endoscopy is necessary. If both the ...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain When Breathing: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Hemoptysis: Causes and Management After Tuberculosis
Hemoptysis My brother had tuberculosis three years ago and was cured after six months of medication. However, over the past year, he has experienced hemoptysis, sometimes coughing up blood once a month and other times every two weeks. He often feels a tickle in his throat at nigh...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello Andy: After the cure of pulmonary tuberculosis, the blood vessels in the areas of fibrosis (scarring) may be more prone to rupture and cause hemoptysis, especially after consuming rich foods such as fried foods, alcoholic beverages, or spicy dishes. If follow-up chest X-ray...[Read More] Understanding Hemoptysis: Causes and Management After Tuberculosis
Understanding Asthma: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Asthma issues? Dear Doctor, I experienced severe asthma symptoms during high school and college, particularly at night after drinking cold water immediately following exercise. However, I never had any daytime episodes, and vigorous exercise did not trigger any symptoms. During...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello Sam: Your symptoms and good response to bronchodilators strongly support a diagnosis of asthma. However, the inhaled corticosteroids have caused inflammation of your vocal cords, leading to your discomfort. The short-acting bronchodilators have a relatively brief duration o...[Read More] Understanding Asthma: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Why Does Water Taste Like Blood in My Mouth? Possible Causes Explained
Oral cavity I would like to ask: Why do I taste blood in my mouth whenever I drink water? Sometimes, when I wake up from resting my head on the table, my mouth feels dry, and after drinking water, I also taste blood. However, I have checked and it is not a dental issue. Could the...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Dada: The odor in the mouth primarily originates from residual food or digested food in the teeth, nasal cavity, stomach, and esophagus. It is advisable to check these organs for any issues. If there are no problems, you should pay attention to oral hygiene by drinking a c...[Read More] Why Does Water Taste Like Blood in My Mouth? Possible Causes Explained
Understanding Chest Tightness After Consuming Cold Juices: A Medical Insight
After drinking iced lemon juice, one may experience chest tightness and difficulty breathing? Hello Dr. Yang, I have a question I would like to ask you. About ten years ago, one summer morning, I stopped by a breakfast shop near my school to buy breakfast. I ordered a cup of iced...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, A-Fu: According to traditional Chinese medicine, foods have different properties such as cold, hot, warm, and cool. Cranberry juice may be considered cool, while orange juice is less likely to be so. Oranges and tangerines may also lean towards being cool, but watermelon j...[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness After Consuming Cold Juices: A Medical Insight
Understanding Chest Pain When Getting Up: Causes and Connections
Chest pain caused by getting out of bed? Hello, I would like to ask about my chest pain that has lasted for two weeks. It hurts significantly in the center of my chest when I try to get up from lying down, but I don't feel pain when taking deep breaths. Previously, I experie...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao P: These two joints have no obvious anatomical connection, so it is advisable to investigate potential causes separately. Temporomandibular joint disorder may be related to malocclusion, so a dental consultation is recommended. If there is chest pain that worsens upon...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain When Getting Up: Causes and Connections
Understanding Summer Breathing Difficulties: When to Seek Medical Help
Dyspnea Hello, doctor. My symptoms have been occurring for the past three to four years. Every summer, I experience difficulty breathing and feel like I can't get enough air, needing to take deep breaths. Even outside of summer, whenever the temperature is hot and humid, I a...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao Xiao: There are many causes of shortness of breath. Young people are often concerned about asthma issues. I recommend that you schedule an appointment with a pulmonologist for examination and evaluation. Best wishes![Read More] Understanding Summer Breathing Difficulties: When to Seek Medical Help