Chest and Back Pain During Coughing: Understanding Possible Causes
There has been chest pain and pain in the area of the right back behind the chest when coughing, and it has lasted for one week? First, I have been experiencing a persistent cold with symptoms such as a runny nose and continuous coughing for over a month now. In the past week, I ...
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Hello Mr. Zhu: Having a cold with a cough and runny nose for a month is somewhat prolonged. It is very likely that you are experiencing allergic rhinitis with post-nasal drip, or allergic rhinitis combined with airway hyperreactivity. You should see an otolaryngologist and a pulm...[Read More] Chest and Back Pain During Coughing: Understanding Possible Causes
Understanding Palpitations: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
What is palpitations? Hello Dr. Lee, I have read some reports about palpitations in the newspaper, but they weren't very in-depth, so I'm not quite sure if my situation qualifies as palpitations. Recently, I often feel discomfort in my heart, seemingly due to sudden inc...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
What you are describing is known as "palpitations." Generally speaking, our heartbeats are a natural occurrence, so unless you consciously pay attention to it, you typically won't feel your heart beating. However, when a person becomes aware of their heartbeat, it ...[Read More] Understanding Palpitations: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Neck Artery Pain: Causes and Connections to Heart Health
Carotid artery pain? Recently, I have been experiencing pain in the arteries of my neck, which feels similar to muscle cramps—very painful but only lasts for a moment, and it occurs suddenly and unpredictably on both sides of my neck. I am unsure what might be causing this. I hav...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
According to your description, primary hypertension accounts for approximately 85-90% of hypertension cases; however, it is essential to rule out causes such as congenital renal artery stenosis, adrenal tumors, or other endocrine disorders. Therefore, spontaneous hypertension sho...[Read More] Understanding Neck Artery Pain: Causes and Connections to Heart Health
Managing Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms and Next Steps
Could you please provide more details about the heart-related issues you would like to discuss with Dr. Lee? Hello Dr. Lee: I have a problem with mitral valve prolapse. Since October 3rd, I have been feeling unwell, experiencing dizziness that persists. When I feel dizzy, I often...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
There have been other individuals who have experienced mitral valve prolapse similar to yours (though not necessarily to the same degree) who have asked related questions. Most patients do not have bothersome symptoms, but some, like you, may experience discomfort that interferes...[Read More] Managing Mitral Valve Prolapse: Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Heart Enlargement: Causes, Effects, and Lifestyle Tips
What is cardiomegaly? Hello, Dr. Ke. I am 24 years old. Recently, during my company's annual health check-up, all the results came back normal, meaning that all the values were within the normal range without any elevated or decreased readings. However, the chest X-ray repor...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello, Xiao Wei: Young individuals with an enlarged heart generally require a thorough examination. Please follow up with a cardiology outpatient clinic for further evaluation, as it may also be normal. (Chest imaging is not entirely definitive.)[Read More] Understanding Heart Enlargement: Causes, Effects, and Lifestyle Tips
Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: Causes and Solutions
Chest pain? I experience sharp pain in my chest, located slightly to the upper left between my breasts. The frequency of the pain varies; sometimes it occurs when I change positions or move my body. The episodes can last for two to three days and have been ongoing for six years w...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Emma: If the chest X-ray and electrocardiogram are normal, the most likely conditions are neuralgia or mitral valve prolapse. Please visit a cardiologist for examination and treatment (echocardiogram).[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Related Health Concerns
Dilated cardiomyopathy I am a 23-year-old student, and recently I had a health check-up at school. The examination report indicated that I have **dilated cardiomyopathy** on the chest X-ray, **heart murmurs**, and **goiter** in the neck. What do these terms mean? Is there anythin...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Julia: Dilated cardiomyopathy is a serious heart condition that requires prompt consultation with a cardiologist. Additionally, the cause of the thyroid enlargement must also be investigated, as both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can lead to cardiac complications.[Read More] Understanding Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Related Health Concerns
Understanding Bloating, Chest Tightness, and Breathing Difficulties: Liver Warning Signs?
Chest tightness and difficulty breathing due to bloating? I often experience bloating, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing. Could this be a warning sign related to my liver?
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
In simple terms, your symptoms can be categorized into two areas: 1. gastrointestinal issues and 2. respiratory issues. Conditions such as gastritis, duodenitis, or gastric or duodenal ulcers can often lead to bloating or a sensation of chest tightness, and even difficulty breath...[Read More] Understanding Bloating, Chest Tightness, and Breathing Difficulties: Liver Warning Signs?
Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse with Regurgitation: Symptoms and Management
Mitral valve prolapse with regurgitation? I have mitral valve prolapse with mild regurgitation, and I am experiencing headaches, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and nausea. I read on a previous forum that the symptoms of this condition are not very pronounced, so why do I f...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
The heart has several valves, including the tricuspid valve, aortic valve, and mitral valve, the latter also known as the bicuspid valve. It is located between the left atrium and left ventricle and is responsible for opening and closing during the heart's contraction and re...[Read More] Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse with Regurgitation: Symptoms and Management
Distinguishing Symptoms of Coronary Artery Blockage vs. Valve Dysfunction
Blood pressure is 90/60, heart rate is 100, and feeling very fatigued? Coronary artery obstruction and valvular insufficiency present different clinical symptoms. Coronary artery obstruction typically leads to symptoms such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Almin Chen: Coronary artery obstruction must be evaluated through an electrocardiogram and cardiac catheterization, while valve insufficiency needs to be assessed using echocardiography. Please schedule an appointment with the cardiology clinic for examination and treatment...[Read More] Distinguishing Symptoms of Coronary Artery Blockage vs. Valve Dysfunction
Understanding Heart Issues: Chest Discomfort, Breathing Problems, and Inner Ear Balance
Heart disease Hello, Dr. Ke: 1. Sometimes I experience chest tightness and shortness of breath, which can worsen, especially when walking. I find that taking traditional Chinese medicine helps alleviate my symptoms. 2. During a hospital visit, the doctor mentioned that I have...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Zhu-Ru: Both cardiac and pulmonary issues can present with symptoms of shortness of breath, so it is recommended to visit our hospital's pulmonary medicine department for various examinations and treatments.[Read More] Understanding Heart Issues: Chest Discomfort, Breathing Problems, and Inner Ear Balance
Understanding Facial Flushing: Causes and Solutions
Easily blush? When I quietly read or work for a while, my face becomes flushed and feels warm. Sometimes, when I go to crowded places, such as attending a wedding or chatting over coffee, my face turns red and feels hot after sitting for a while, and I feel a bit stuffy. What cou...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Julier: Generally, having these symptoms is a normal response (vasodilation). If you experience chest discomfort, please go to the hospital for an electrocardiogram and thyroid function tests.[Read More] Understanding Facial Flushing: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Dilated Cardiomyopathy: What You Need to Know
Dilated cardiomyopathy I am a 23-year-old student, and I recently had a health check-up. The examination report indicated that I have **dilated cardiomyopathy**, **heart murmurs** in my chest, and **goiter** in my neck. What do these terms mean? Are there any specific concerns I ...
Dr. Zeng Fenyu Reply:
Please consult an internist. Based on your examination results, an explanation will be provided. Just looking at these terms, the severity of the diseases they represent can vary widely, and it is not possible to provide a definitive answer on paper.[Read More] Understanding Dilated Cardiomyopathy: What You Need to Know
Understanding Chest Pressure When Sleeping on the Left Side
Chest compression When I sleep on my left side, I experience a strong feeling of pressure on my heart, which is very uncomfortable. However, when I sleep on my right side, I do not have this issue. I also do not experience this sensation when sitting or standing. This phenomenon ...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello THC: It is recommended that you go to the hospital for an electrocardiogram (ECG) and X-ray examination. (Symptoms like these can be related to thoracic or cardiopulmonary issues.)[Read More] Understanding Chest Pressure When Sleeping on the Left Side
Understanding Hepatitis B: Risks, Management, and Health Concerns
Hepatitis B Dr. Ke: Hello! I would like to ask you a few questions, please respond, thank you! 1. I had hepatitis B when I was younger, but I recovered. My boyfriend is a carrier of hepatitis B; will he transmit it to me? 2. Is it true that a hepatitis B carrier will never ful...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Vivian: 1. Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through blood transfusions and injections; it is not transmitted through food. 2. Chronic carriers of Hepatitis B are not easily cured, but there are new treatment options available. Please follow up with a hepatology clinic f...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Risks, Management, and Health Concerns
Understanding Habitual Stomach Pain: When to Get Regular Endoscopies?
Chronic gastric pain? Since childhood, I have frequently visited clinics. I cannot jump rope more than 30 times, and I cannot walk quickly. The pain is located in the lower left chest area, and when it hurts, I quickly press on it to reduce the pain. I have undergone gastroscopy ...
Dr. Zeng Fenyu Reply:
In addition to some patients experiencing discomfort, gastroscopy does not have side effects. Pain in the lower left chest after physical activity may not necessarily be gastric pain, and it is advisable to consult an internist for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Habitual Stomach Pain: When to Get Regular Endoscopies?
Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Lifestyle Adjustments
Duodenal ulcer with bulb deformity? Hello! I am a working professional who spends most of my time sitting in the office. I have low physical activity, and my Hepatitis B surface antigen is positive, while the e antigen is negative. My weight and height are 70 kg and 173 cm, respe...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello: 1. Fatty liver can lead to a slight increase in liver function tests; please exercise more. 2. Chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori can cause gastritis and duodenal ulcers (recurrent ulcers may lead to deformation of the bulb). 3. Elevated atherosclerosis index; plea...[Read More] Understanding Duodenal Ulcers: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Lifestyle Adjustments
Persistent Cough After Cold: Causes and Home Remedies
Persistent cough Hello Dr. Kuo! I visited the doctor a week ago due to a cold, and after taking the prescribed medication, my condition has improved. However, I am still troubled by persistent dry cough. I have a weak constitution and am prone to colds, and I occasionally feel a ...
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Dear Mr. Ted, Regarding your cough, we generally refer to a cough lasting less than three weeks as an acute cough. The causes of acute cough can include viral infections and bacterial infections. A dry cough is often due to post-nasal drip or airway allergies. You should consult...[Read More] Persistent Cough After Cold: Causes and Home Remedies
Understanding Tricuspid Regurgitation: Causes, Symptoms, and Heart Health
Tricuspid regurgitation During a previous check-up for a rash, the doctor detected a heart murmur and performed an echocardiogram, which revealed tricuspid regurgitation. I would like to know what causes this condition. Is it the same as tricuspid valve prolapse? I'm also co...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
The tricuspid valve is located between the right atrium and right ventricle of the heart, and its primary function is to prevent the backflow of blood into the right atrium during right ventricular contraction. When the heart experiences certain conditions, such as ischemic heart...[Read More] Understanding Tricuspid Regurgitation: Causes, Symptoms, and Heart Health
Understanding Slow Heartbeat and Breathing Difficulties in Middle-Aged Women
Shortness of breath and bradycardia? Your mother is 50 years old and has not yet reached menopause. Her usual blood pressure is 100/60 mmHg. Recently, she has been experiencing a sensation of a slow heartbeat (measured pulse is 72 beats per minute, heart rate is 80 beats per minu...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Your mother is 50 years old and has not yet experienced menopause, but her menstrual cycle may be irregular. Her blood pressure is acceptable, and her pulse rate is within the normal range, but it's unclear if it is consistent. It is recommended that you take your mother to ...[Read More] Understanding Slow Heartbeat and Breathing Difficulties in Middle-Aged Women