How Long Should Asthma Treatment Last and When Can You Stop Medication?
Question Hello, doctor: May I ask 1. How long does asthma treatment usually last? 2. How long should medication be taken before it can be discontinued?
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello Xiaofang: Here are brief answers to your two questions: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that is related to genetics. Therefore, if your diagnosis is confirmed as asthma, it cannot be completely cured (as the underlying constitution is difficult to ch...[Read More] How Long Should Asthma Treatment Last and When Can You Stop Medication?
Understanding Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis: Common Questions Answered
Question Hello, doctor: I have allergic rhinitis and asthma (which I have been treated for and am currently not taking medication). I usually have a wheezing sound when I exhale, especially when climbing stairs, sleeping, or in cold weather, which is most severe during these time...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiaofang: If you are experiencing a feeling of wheezing, it may be due to post-nasal drip or irritation in the respiratory tract and throat. In principle, asthma requires long-term medication management. I recommend that you consult a pulmonologist for evaluation and treat...[Read More] Understanding Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis: Common Questions Answered
Understanding Pleural Thickening: What Does It Mean for Your Health?
Health Checkup Questions I recently underwent a physical examination at the hospital, and one of the results indicated thickening of the pleura at the left lung apex. I would like to ask the doctor what kind of symptom this is and whether it is a disease. I have always been healt...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Zicheng: Pleural thickening usually indicates that there has been previous inflammation of the pleura, which has healed and formed a small scar (for example, if it is localized to the apex of the lung). This generally does not have any adverse effects on health. It is also...[Read More] Understanding Pleural Thickening: What Does It Mean for Your Health?
Understanding Yellow Sputum in Bronchiectasis: When to Worry?
Yellow sputum in bronchiectasis? Dear Director Yang, I have been suffering from bronchiectasis for over 30 years and I produce a significant amount of yellow sputum daily. However, I do not experience fever unless I have a cold. Most doctors prescribe antibiotics as soon as they...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello MoMo: The yellow color of sputum may be caused by a bacterial infection, or it could be due to sputum remaining in the bronchi for too long (such as 6-8 hours), which can also cause discoloration. If there is a bacterial infection, it is more likely to be accompanied by a w...[Read More] Understanding Yellow Sputum in Bronchiectasis: When to Worry?
Understanding Green Phlegm: Causes and Concerns for Smokers
Green sputum Hello Dr. Yang: I am a long-time smoker and have been undergoing treatment for asthma. I usually have thick phlegm, but recently I have been coughing up green phlegm. I am currently receiving treatment in the hospital, but there has been no improvement, and I have no...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello Rudy: Chronic bronchitis with infection can present with yellow-green purulent sputum. In addition to adjustments in antibiotics or the use of other expectorants as prescribed by a physician, it is essential to drink plenty of water and quit smoking to see improvement. Best...[Read More] Understanding Green Phlegm: Causes and Concerns for Smokers
Effective Strategies to Reduce Mucus in Asthma Patients
How to effectively reduce mucus in asthma patients? Hello, Doctor: I am an asthma patient who was diagnosed with asthma earlier this year. I have experienced acute attacks and am currently undergoing treatment with inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators. The freq...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiaoling: I apologize for not being able to respond to your question in a timely manner last week as I was out of the country. Here is a brief response to your inquiry: If asthma is well-controlled, the amount of phlegm should decrease to the level it was before the onset ...[Read More] Effective Strategies to Reduce Mucus in Asthma Patients
Common Issues Faced by Patients Using Respirators in Pulmonology
Common Questions About the Use of Ventilators What problems can occur in individuals using a ventilator?
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello Xiaoya: Depending on the patient's condition, different issues may arise. Most problems can be addressed by physicians and respiratory therapists. In more complex situations, physicians will hold discussions to brainstorm solutions and explain them to the family. If yo...[Read More] Common Issues Faced by Patients Using Respirators in Pulmonology
Managing Pulmonary Cryptococcal Infection: Treatment and Follow-Up
Pulmonary cryptococcal infection nodules Hello Dr. Yang, my spouse has been diagnosed with a cryptococcal infection in the lungs. After treatment with Diflucan (fluconazole) at a dosage of 300 mg/day for 7 weeks, the CT scan showed that the nodule decreased from 1.9 cm to 1.5 cm,...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello Mr. Jiang: Here are brief responses to your three questions: 1. For individuals with normal immune function, if there is no deterioration of the lesions after a period of treatment for cryptococcal pneumonia, the medication can be discontinued without needing to wait for th...[Read More] Managing Pulmonary Cryptococcal Infection: Treatment and Follow-Up
Co-Infection of Pulmonary Cryptococcus and Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria
Pulmonary cryptococcosis and non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection? 1. Is it possible for the lungs to be simultaneously infected with both conditions mentioned above? 2. How long does it take for the effects of Diflucan to be completely eliminated from the body after discontin...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Mr. Jiang: Hello, here is a brief response to your questions for your reference. 1. The lungs may be infected by two types of bacteria simultaneously, but some bacteria may just be commensal and not pathogenic (causing persistent tissue damage). 2. The half-life of Diflucan is ap...[Read More] Co-Infection of Pulmonary Cryptococcus and Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria
Recurring Throat Inflammation: Effective Treatments and Solutions
Recurrent throat inflammation? Dear Director Yang: I had a throat inflammation and took antibiotics for two weeks, which helped, but after two days, the inflammation returned (it keeps recurring). Is it effective to see a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, or is there any...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao Ru: You can choose to see a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or an otolaryngologist. Usually, antibiotics do not need to be taken for such a long duration. It is advisable to drink plenty of water and to limit the intake of fried and spicy foods. Best wishes![Read More] Recurring Throat Inflammation: Effective Treatments and Solutions
Can Throat Clearing or Nasal Mucus Cause Throat Inflammation?
Could you please provide the content you would like me to translate? Doctor, does clearing the throat or post-nasal drip lead to throat inflammation?
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao Ru: When an individual has low immunity or is overly fatigued, damaged throat mucosa can lead to infectious secretions that may cause throat inflammation. Best wishes![Read More] Can Throat Clearing or Nasal Mucus Cause Throat Inflammation?
Understanding Throat Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Pharyngitis Hello, doctor: I have a slight throat inflammation and feel a bit itchy in my throat, which makes me want to cough, but I don't cough often. What can I do to get better? It's been over two weeks since I started experiencing this, and the medication doesn...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao Ru: I suggest you drink more water, avoid fried or cold foods, and try to relax your mind; this should help improve your condition! Wishing you well![Read More] Understanding Throat Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Understanding Breathing Difficulties: When Air Feels Stuck in Your Lungs
Often feel that the air does not reach the lungs when breathing? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask you about something. Recently, I often feel a bit of difficulty in breathing, as if air is not reaching my lungs. I frequently have to take deep breaths, and even when I do, sometim...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Lanlan: Your symptoms may involve two issues: 1. Bloating and belching could be related to gastritis or consuming too many cold foods that irritate the stomach. 2. If you are experiencing high levels of stress and not getting enough rest, it can also lead to a sensation of...[Read More] Understanding Breathing Difficulties: When Air Feels Stuck in Your Lungs
Understanding Bronchitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Asthma Risks
Bronchitis I recently consulted Dr. Yang due to a cough with yellow sputum. I went to the hospital for an X-ray, and the doctor diagnosed me with bronchitis. I took medication for fifteen days, including antibiotics and cough suppressants to help with phlegm. The yellow sputum is...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao Liu: Bronchitis can be associated with heightened tracheal sensitivity, resulting in a persistent cough that is difficult to resolve, and may even lead to a feeling of wheezing. Asthma is typically accompanied by wheezing sounds. If there is a family history of asthma...[Read More] Understanding Bronchitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Asthma Risks
Understanding Throat Inflammation: Its Connection to Tonsils and Lungs
Tonsil problems? Thank you, Dr. Yang, for your previous answers. I apologize for asking another question. The pulmonologist mentioned that I have a slight inflammation in my throat. Is this related to my lungs or tonsils? I haven't lost any weight; if I were to lose weight, ...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao Ru: 1. Throat inflammation is more commonly associated with a general cold and sore throat, which everyone may experience and typically does not have a significant impact on the body. 2. When the tonsils are inflamed, they become red and swollen, and if the pain is s...[Read More] Understanding Throat Inflammation: Its Connection to Tonsils and Lungs
Understanding Lung Scarring After Tuberculosis: Risks and Concerns
Lung issues? I previously had tuberculosis and have recovered, but during an X-ray examination today, it was noted that the old scars in my lungs are more pronounced compared to two months ago. Is it possible that this indicates a relapse of tuberculosis? Additionally, if I previ...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao Ru: 1. The relapse rate of tuberculosis after completing treatment should be less than 5%. 2. The visibility of old scars may be due to differences in brightness on the chest X-ray. Typically, relapse is considered only if the original scar has enlarged or if new l...[Read More] Understanding Lung Scarring After Tuberculosis: Risks and Concerns
Understanding Pectus Excavatum: Eating Issues and Chest Pain Explained
Questions related to chest wall deformities (pectus excavatum)? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask a question. I am tall and thin with a noticeable pectus excavatum. Since middle school, I have experienced a sensation of wanting to vomit during meals (usually just expelling air,...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, little thin one: Here are simple responses to your two questions: (1) Your eating habits and frequent belching are more related to the esophagus or stomach, and less related to pectus excavatum. (2) Chest pain may be a type of neuralgia and is not related to poor heart or ...[Read More] Understanding Pectus Excavatum: Eating Issues and Chest Pain Explained
Understanding Pectus Excavatum: Symptoms and Specialist Consultations
Pectus excavatum, commonly known as funnel chest, is a congenital deformity characterized by a sunken sternum and rib cage. This condition can vary in severity Pectus excavatum can present with various symptoms. Common symptoms include difficulty breathing, especially during phys...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
KEVIN: Hello, pectus excavatum usually does not present any symptoms in young individuals. Patients with more severe depression may experience some impact on lung capacity or heart function. Typically, the physiological decline in lung function that occurs in middle age or later ...[Read More] Understanding Pectus Excavatum: Symptoms and Specialist Consultations
Managing Chronic Cough and Phlegm: Tips for Lung Health
Frequent coughing with thick phlegm? Director Yang, I often experience persistent coughing with thick phlegm throughout the year. My lungs are easily prone to infections, and I frequently feel an itch in my chest that triggers the urge to cough. If I am exposed to secondhand smok...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao Liu: Your tracheal condition seems more like bronchiectasis, with increased sputum production, especially in the morning. During a cold, the amount of sputum may increase further or become more yellow and thick. You should try to reduce your intake of sugary foods and...[Read More] Managing Chronic Cough and Phlegm: Tips for Lung Health
Understanding Chest Indentation: Causes, Concerns, and Treatment Options
What is the issue with a sunken chest? Hello, Doctor: I am a 17-year-old high school student! This issue has been bothering me for a long time. My chest is significantly sunken in! When I touch it, I can feel that the bone is completely recessed inward. I would like to ask if thi...
Dr. Yang Wenda reply Pulmonology
Hello, Xiao Bai: Your chest deformity (concave) is likely what is medically referred to as pectus excavatum. The deformity is quite severe, and in addition to aesthetic concerns, it can indeed affect lung capacity and cardiac function. Especially in middle age and beyond, the sym...[Read More] Understanding Chest Indentation: Causes, Concerns, and Treatment Options