Understanding Heart Pain: Asthma, Medications, and Potential Risks
Chest pain I have asthma, and I have been using maintenance medication for it. My doctor mentioned that the side effects of that medication are minimal. Recently, I've been experiencing intermittent chest pain that comes and goes. I started having these episodes in high scho...
Dr. Lin Jizhi Reply:
During puberty, emotional fluctuations or excitement often lead to a sensation of sharp pain, which typically resolves quickly. This is likely neuropathic pain caused by issues with the autonomic nervous system and should not be attributed to heart problems. Additionally, the use...[Read More] Understanding Heart Pain: Asthma, Medications, and Potential Risks
Understanding Chest Pain and Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Concerns
Pain near the heart? Sometimes when I sit in a chair or even during regular walking, which isn't intense exercise, my heart starts to race for no reason, accompanied by a feeling of pain. I haven't experienced any trauma so far.
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
I recommend that you get an electrocardiogram (ECG). If that does not provide an explanation or identify any issues, you may need to wear a 24-hour Holter monitor. However, considering your age, the likelihood of having a problem is probably low. Anyway, it's always better t...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Rapid Heartbeat: Causes and Concerns
Chest Pain and Weight Loss: Seeking Medical Advice for Health Concerns
Please ask your question? Hello, Doctor: I have two questions I would like to ask you, and I hope you can provide some guidance! 1. Recently, I have been experiencing sharp pain in my chest, particularly in the left side around the heart area, and sometimes in the sides of my a...
Dr. Lin Jizhi Reply:
Chest pain that occurs with breathing or activity can commonly be attributed to several conditions: 1. Pneumonia 2. Pleuritis 3. Musculoskeletal pain 4. Neuralgia 5. Peptic ulcer 6. Angina. Of course, without a physical examination, it is difficult to determine the exact cause. H...[Read More] Chest Pain and Weight Loss: Seeking Medical Advice for Health Concerns
Understanding Sudden Weight Gain: Causes and Solutions
Sudden weight gain In the past few weeks, I've noticed that the area below my chest down to my thighs has become quite swollen. I'm not sure if it's fat gain or edema. My diet hasn't changed significantly, and I'm unsure about the cause. Could you help me...
Dr. Lin Jizhi Reply:
I apologize, but I do not know your height and weight. Additionally, what is the extent of the weight change? How many kilograms? Generally speaking, sudden weight gain should raise concerns about potential endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing's syndrome. F...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Weight Gain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Frequent Fever and Sore Throat: Causes and Concerns
Some questions about fever? I experienced fever more than a dozen times last year, but it rarely exceeded 39 degrees Celsius. Before I noticed the fever, I would first experience a sore throat, which made me realize I was running a fever. Why do I frequently have fevers, and why ...
Dr. Zhao Chongliang Reply:
Long-term low-grade intermittent fever should raise considerations for chronic inflammation, lymphoproliferative disorders, and collagen vascular diseases. The former, particularly in Taiwan, should include the possibility of tuberculosis. The second category may also apply to yo...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Fever and Sore Throat: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Mitral and Tricuspid Valve Insufficiency: A Patient's Journey
Mitral and tricuspid valve insufficiency Hello, Doctor! Four and a half years ago, I discovered that I had abnormalities related to my cardiovascular system, such as sudden severe chest pain, rapid heartbeat, and abnormal blood pressure. I am currently serving in a military subst...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
I am sorry to hear about your condition, but having an open attitude towards seeking medical help is a positive mindset. If you wish to undergo further examinations to confirm your diagnosis, with the current level of healthcare in Taiwan, any regional teaching hospital or above ...[Read More] Understanding Mitral and Tricuspid Valve Insufficiency: A Patient's Journey
When Will Side Effects of Tuberculosis Medication Subside?
When do the side effects of tuberculosis medications subside? I was diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis in mid-November 1990 after sputum culture results came back positive, while chest X-ray and sputum tests at that time showed no abnormalities. I have been on medication for 2...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Reply to the soldier: You are currently taking four medications for tuberculosis. The most significant side effects include hepatitis, jaundice, and hyperuricemia. If you experience any rash or symptoms of fatigue, it is advisable to stop the medication immediately and go to the ...[Read More] When Will Side Effects of Tuberculosis Medication Subside?
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Causes, Symptoms, and Lifestyle Tips
Mitral valve prolapse Hello, Dr. Ko. Recently, I experienced sharp pain in my chest and went to the hospital for a cardiac ultrasound, which revealed some mitral valve prolapse. The outpatient doctor said it was not serious and advised me to avoid vigorous exercise, so I am curre...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello, Jia-Qing: In cases of mild mitral valve prolapse, symptomatic treatment is usually sufficient (pain relievers combined with beta-blockers). This condition typically occurs in individuals with a slender build. No adjustments to general exercise are necessary as long as ther...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Causes, Symptoms, and Lifestyle Tips
Understanding Right Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Right chest pain Hello Dr. Ke: For the past few days, I have been experiencing pain in my right chest, about two to three centimeters below the ribcage, when swallowing food and taking deep breaths. However, pressing on that area does not cause any pain. Could you please explain ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Merry: Based on your symptoms, there could be issues related to the biliary tract (such as gallstones or cholecystitis), pleuritis, or gastrointestinal ulcers. An X-ray and ultrasound examination can confirm the cause for treatment. Please go to the hospital for an examinat...[Read More] Understanding Right Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse Symptoms and Treatment Options
I would like to ask the doctor another question? Doctor, may I ask you: Is it true that mitral valve prolapse with symptoms can be more severe? Since last October, I have been experiencing symptoms (dizziness, shortness of breath, chest tightness, palpitations, and difficulty spe...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Having symptoms does not necessarily indicate a more severe condition, and the absence of symptoms does not imply a milder one. Rather, if symptoms are present and worsen, it indicates a potential deterioration. Medication is required only when there is a medical condition, and t...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse Symptoms and Treatment Options
Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Chest tightness and pain? Recently, I have been experiencing a feeling of tightness and pain in my chest, particularly around the area near the diaphragm. However, I tend to feel somewhat better after eating. Yet, about 3 to 4 hours after a meal, the symptoms return. What could b...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Response: Your symptoms are suggestive of esophagitis caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is recommended to undergo an upper endoscopy, X-ray, and upper gastrointestinal series for evaluation. Please visit a gastroenterology clinic for examination and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Managing Mitral Valve Prolapse: Tips for Symptoms and Weight Gain
Regarding the issue of valve prolapse? Dear Doctor: Regarding some medical conditions (Anxiety, Mitral Valve Disease, VBI), I experienced dizziness and discomfort at the beginning of last year, and I underwent a cardiac ultrasound. The doctor mentioned that I might experience pal...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Anxiety refers to a state of worry or unease. Mitral valve disease pertains to conditions affecting the heart's mitral valve. As for VBI, its abbreviation is unclear. From your words, one can infer the busyness and stress you are experiencing, which is a common phenomenon in...[Read More] Managing Mitral Valve Prolapse: Tips for Symptoms and Weight Gain
Rare Salmonella Infection in Father's Heart: A Critical Medical Case
My father's right heart vessel is infected with Salmonella, and his condition is critical..? My father suddenly experienced chest tightness, shortness of breath, and chills around 3:40 PM on August 12. My mother urgently took him to the New Building Hospital in Tainan. After...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
In response to Su Wenting: Based on your description, it may be infectious vasculitis with associated aortic aneurysm. Typically, treatment involves antibiotics for two to four weeks while also managing hypertension. If there is no improvement or if the condition worsens, surgica...[Read More] Rare Salmonella Infection in Father's Heart: A Critical Medical Case
Understanding Chest Discomfort and Coughing: Occupational Health Insights
Could it be an occupational disease caused by long-term work in a plastic company? I often feel a tightness in my chest, frequently cough, and have thick saliva. However, an X-ray at the hospital showed everything is normal. What could be the reason for this? If it is simply a de...
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Hello Mr. Chuo: Working in a plastic factory, certain chemical components such as ethylene vapors can indeed cause allergic symptoms in the airways. X-rays typically do not show abnormal findings unless the condition is in its late stages. I recommend that you undergo a comprehen...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort and Coughing: Occupational Health Insights
Understanding Aortic Tortuosity: What You Need to Know
Aortic coarctation? Hello Dr. Ke: During my full body check-up last year, this condition was discovered. I usually don't have any unusual symptoms, I occasionally smoke (no more than one cigarette a day), I don't have a habit of drinking alcohol, and I go to bed early. ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello, Mr. Jiang: Based on your description, it appears that the chest X-ray from your health check-up revealed aortic tortuosity, which is mostly a natural change associated with aging. However, it is important to monitor for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipi...[Read More] Understanding Aortic Tortuosity: What You Need to Know
Persistent Chest Pain: Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help
hurt I have been experiencing heart pain for 21 hours (maybe more) from 11 PM to 9 PM. I cannot take deep breaths, laugh, or perform any physical activities. Initially, I thought I would feel better after going to bed, but when I woke up the next morning, the pain persisted. Brea...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Dear Ivy: Your symptoms may be related to valvular heart disease, neuralgia, pleuritis, or anxiety. I suggest you come to the hospital for a chest X-ray and EKG studies to confirm the final diagnosis, and the doctor can provide you with the appropriate treatment.[Read More] Persistent Chest Pain: Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Is Long-Distance Flying Safe for Patients with Mitral Valve Prolapse?
Is it safe for individuals with mitral valve prolapse to undertake long flights? I am experiencing shortness of breath, numbness in my hands, chest tightness and pain, and sudden cold sweats. After undergoing an echocardiogram, the doctor mentioned that I have some palpitations a...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello, Kuang: Seroxat is a mild sedative that can alleviate symptoms of palpitations and anxiety. It can be taken regularly for a period of time, and the medication should only be discontinued after symptoms have resolved. Generally, individuals with mild mitral valve prolapse ca...[Read More] Is Long-Distance Flying Safe for Patients with Mitral Valve Prolapse?
Understanding Left Ventricular Hypertrophy: Symptoms and Implications for Young Adults
Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) Hello Doctor, I am 24 years old and have been experiencing some heart issues. I have visited several hospitals for examinations, and some doctors have mentioned left ventricular hypertrophy, while others have referred to mitral valve prolapse or...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Ah-Hui: The electrocardiogram does not have a term for left ventricular high voltage; what you are describing may be left ventricular hypertrophy. If there is no hypertension, it is advisable to follow up with a cardiology clinic for monitoring of the electrocardiogram.[Read More] Understanding Left Ventricular Hypertrophy: Symptoms and Implications for Young Adults
Understanding Pulmonary Artery Mass: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
There is a growth on the outside of the pulmonary artery? Previously, the results from my hospital examination revealed that during a frontal chest X-ray, a mass approximately 3 to 4 centimeters in size was clearly visible outside the pulmonary artery, making it appear enlarged. ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello, Xiao Ru: There is a tumor shadow on the X-ray, and a CT scan is necessary to determine its size, location, and nature. If a tumor is suspected, surgical treatment is required. The current surgical risks are very low, and you can be discharged in about a week.[Read More] Understanding Pulmonary Artery Mass: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Understanding Heart Murmurs: Causes, Treatments, and Lifestyle Tips
Heart murmur Recently, a physical examination revealed a heart murmur (systolic) associated with the aorta, and the examining physician indicated it is related to a valvular issue. The murmur appears to be quite loud and can also be heard in the carotid arteries. Additionally, a ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
In response to Howard: If there are significant heart murmurs clinically, an echocardiogram is usually required to determine the underlying issue causing the murmur. If it is confirmed that the aortic valve is the source of the problem, it is also necessary to assess the severity...[Read More] Understanding Heart Murmurs: Causes, Treatments, and Lifestyle Tips