Understanding Nocturnal Wheezing: Causes and Concerns for Sleep Health
Sudden wheezing sounds during sleep? Hello Dr. Hong, I apologize for interrupting you during your busy schedule. Recently, I have noticed that I experience wheezing sounds while sleeping. After doing some research on Google, I suspect it might be related to respiratory issues, so...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that temperature changes or allergies may have led to allergic rhinitis and bronchitis. I recommend starting with keeping warm and wearing a mask, as well as engaging in moderate exercise, which can be helpful. If symptoms persist, it ma...[Read More] Understanding Nocturnal Wheezing: Causes and Concerns for Sleep Health
Chronic Phlegm and Chest X-Ray Concerns: What You Need to Know
Chronic sputum production and chest X-ray abnormalities? Hello, Doctor. For the past few months, I seem to have been experiencing a persistent phlegm condition. If I refer to my earliest medical visit, it was in September of this year. There were times when I didn't feel muc...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your initial X-ray, we did not observe any significant issues. Your symptoms are primarily upper respiratory symptoms, which could be due to a common cold, COVID-19 infection, influenza, or allergic bronchitis. These conditions can be difficult to differentiate ba...[Read More] Chronic Phlegm and Chest X-Ray Concerns: What You Need to Know
Understanding Moles: When to Worry and When to Relax
Hemorrhoid issues? Hello, Doctor. I visited a dermatologist today because I had a small black spot on my chest that was a mole. I showed it to the doctor, and it seemed a bit raised. When I slightly squeezed it, it appeared that there was a pimple nearby, and although it didn...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the photos you provided, they do appear to be moles. Moles are accumulations of melanocytes. Even in adults, new moles can develop unless they suddenly grow large, have an irregular shape, or show any discharge, in which case one should be concerned about melanoma...[Read More] Understanding Moles: When to Worry and When to Relax
Understanding Post-Choking Discomfort: Is It Aspiration Pneumonia?
Discomfort after choking? Hello, Dr. Hong. Yesterday, on November 30th, while eating Korean hot pot, I accidentally inhaled some soup. Half a day later, I experienced mild pain in my chest and back, a decreased appetite (eating more makes me feel a bit nauseous), and occasional s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems that the inflammation in your throat is primarily caused by the broth, and it is unlikely to have resulted in aspiration pneumonia. I recommend continuing to monitor the situation, and seek medical attention only if you experience sympto...[Read More] Understanding Post-Choking Discomfort: Is It Aspiration Pneumonia?
Chronic Abdominal Pain with Chest and Back Discomfort: Possible Causes?
Abdominal pain for several months accompanied by chest and back pain? Hello, doctor. Recently, I've been experiencing frequent abdominal pain, and sometimes I also have pain in my left chest and left back, accompanied by a burning sensation in my abdomen and back. When I hav...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is indeed most likely caused by gastroesophageal reflux. However, it is important to rule out any cardiac issues, such as cardiovascular problems or aortic issues. If the discomfort persists, I recommend visiting a cardiology clinic for furthe...[Read More] Chronic Abdominal Pain with Chest and Back Discomfort: Possible Causes?
Understanding Skin Spots and Normal Variations on the Penis
Penile issues? Hello doctor, I recently discovered a few black spots on my body and visited a dermatologist. The doctor said they are moles, but I also have a small spot on my chest and near the base of my penis. Although the dermatologist used a light similar to a magnifying gla...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the appearance in the photo and your description, it does seem like a typical mole. I recommend monitoring it for now, unless there are any significant changes that would require further evaluation. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Skin Spots and Normal Variations on the Penis
Managing Post-HIV Test Anxiety and Skin Conditions: A Comprehensive Guide
HIV testing-related sequelae? Dear Dr. Hong, Hello. Over a month ago, I consulted you about HIV screening. As you anticipated, the HIV antigen-antibody rapid test result was negative 92 days after the sexual encounter, which allows me to rule out HIV. However, these past three m...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, high stress levels can indeed lead to the occurrence of folliculitis. Dermatologists typically prescribe symptomatic medications, but the most important factors are regulating your daily routine, managing stress, and engaging in moderate exercise. If these methods do not i...[Read More] Managing Post-HIV Test Anxiety and Skin Conditions: A Comprehensive Guide
Could Your Cold Symptoms Indicate a COVID-19 Infection Abroad?
If you are experiencing cold symptoms while abroad, how likely is it that they could be related to COVID-19? Hello doctor, I am currently abroad and feeling quite worried due to cold symptoms. I am unsure if there is a possibility of having COVID-19. Initially, I had a sensation ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the symptoms you described, it is indeed a respiratory infection. However, it is not possible to distinguish whether it is COVID-19 solely based on symptoms; confirmation of the diagnosis requires testing. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Could Your Cold Symptoms Indicate a COVID-19 Infection Abroad?
Feeling of Throat Obstruction After Tick Removal: What to Do?
Sensation of a foreign body in the throat? Recently, I adopted a puppy that has ticks. I would like to ask if ticks can live inside humans, in addition to being on the skin of dogs and people. I forgot to wear a mask while treating the dog for parasites, and after talking during ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the chances of swallowing a tick are very low. Based on your symptoms, you should be more cautious about catching a cold. I recommend drinking some warm water and getting plenty of rest. If your symptoms persist, please consult an ear, nose, and throat specialist. Thank yo...[Read More] Feeling of Throat Obstruction After Tick Removal: What to Do?
Understanding Chest Discomfort: Is It Muscle Strain or Something More?
Chest issues inquiry? Hello, Doctor. When I move my left or right arm back at a large angle or swing my body side to side, I feel a slight movement in the bones or muscles in the front of my chest. Is this because the muscles are pulling on the sternum? Additionally, occasionally...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it does seem to be symptoms of muscle or cartilage inflammation rather than a fracture or pneumothorax. I recommend resting and monitoring the situation. Unless the pain worsens, there is no need for immediate medical evaluation. Thank you for yo...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: Is It Muscle Strain or Something More?
How to Handle a Choking Sensation After Accidental Ingestion
Accidental ingestion of foreign objects? Recently, I have a puppy at home and noticed that it has ticks. However, when I applied the medication, I forgot to wear a mask. After applying the medication, I washed my hands and cleaned up, but I felt something strange in my throat, as...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it does not seem like an accidental ingestion. Additionally, whether it is a tick or any other object you came into contact with, the likelihood of it getting stuck in your throat is very low unless it is something sharp like a fishbone. I sugges...[Read More] How to Handle a Choking Sensation After Accidental Ingestion
Understanding Folliculitis: Should You Be Concerned About Skin Inflammation?
Folliculitis Hello, although I visited a dermatologist this afternoon, and the doctor mentioned it was folliculitis and prescribed clindamycin for topical use, I am a bit worried and unsure if this could be something serious. I have heard that lumps near the chest should be check...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the photos you provided, it does appear to be more like folliculitis or eczema. Given your description that it appeared suddenly, the likelihood of cancer is very low. I recommend following your physician's advice regarding topical treatment, unless it contin...[Read More] Understanding Folliculitis: Should You Be Concerned About Skin Inflammation?
Understanding Rib Variations and Concerns About Chest Pain
The ribs are not quite the same? Hello doctor, I have a question. When I touch the area below my chest on both sides, I can feel the ribs or the bones beneath the sternum. The left side seems to protrude slightly more than the right side, especially when I tighten my abdomen; it ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The bone you are feeling is a rib. It is normal for human ribs to be asymmetrical on the left and right sides, so there is no need to worry. 2. The action of your chest protruding does not cause a pneumothorax. Pneumothorax can be caused by congenital factors or by ...[Read More] Understanding Rib Variations and Concerns About Chest Pain
Is Wearing a Mask Enough for Safety? Addressing COVID-19 Concerns
Wuhan pneumonia Hello, today I went to the shopping mall with my family and encountered two Japanese individuals who were not wearing masks while talking. I would like to ask the doctor if wearing a mask myself makes me relatively safe in this situation. Additionally, sometimes w...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. In relatively outdoor spaces, and since you are wearing a mask, it is indeed relatively safe. 2. Wearing a mask can lead to lower blood oxygen levels due to reduced ventilation, which is a physiological phenomenon that everyone may experience. However, the comfort le...[Read More] Is Wearing a Mask Enough for Safety? Addressing COVID-19 Concerns
Understanding Skin Spots: When to Worry About Moles and Growths
Could you please clarify your question regarding different doctors? Hello, recently I visited a dermatologist regarding a black spot on my chest, which the doctor identified as a mole. The doctor mentioned that its shape, size, and color appeared normal, so I should just monitor ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the appearance in the picture, it does resemble a mole. It is normal for moles to have slight color variations, such as a reddish tint. Typically, moles are more likely to occur in areas exposed to sunlight, but this is not absolute; they can also appear on the ch...[Read More] Understanding Skin Spots: When to Worry About Moles and Growths
Understanding Chest Pain: Could It Be a Post-Cold Issue?
Chest muscle pain, follow-up questions, thank you? Hello, doctor, thank you for your response. About a month ago, I had a health check-up and an X-ray was taken; the doctor said there were no abnormalities. During my last visit for a cold, another doctor mentioned that my lungs s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the main concern should be the chest pain. Given your previous history of a cold, it is likely that you may be experiencing pleuritis or possibly a muscle strain. The topical anti-inflammatory medication you mentioned can be used, and typically, ...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Could It Be a Post-Cold Issue?
Understanding Chest Discomfort: Muscle Pain or Heart Concerns?
Discomfort in the muscles near the chest? Hello Doctor: In the past few days, I have occasionally felt pain in the area about 3-4 fingers wide above the left nipple or near the midpoint between the nipple and the armpit when I move my arm. I'm not sure if it's muscle pa...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the area you are referring to is likely where the cartilage or pleura is prone to inflammation. The deep breathing or chest expansion you mentioned can trigger pain, suggesting it could be pleuritis or costochondritis. It is possible that you previously experienced a cold,...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: Muscle Pain or Heart Concerns?
Understanding Chest Anatomy: Normal Structures vs. Concerning Lumps
Muscle issues? Hello doctor, when I touch the left side of my chest, I seem to be able to feel my ribs or sternum, and in the area near my armpits, when I raise my hands, it feels like there are muscle-like structures. Is this considered a normal anatomy, or could it be some unsa...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the area you described is likely muscle or cartilage. If it is a round lump, it could be a lymph node. All of these are normal structures, but it is important to physically examine it to know for sure. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding Chest Anatomy: Normal Structures vs. Concerning Lumps
Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns
Intermittent chest tightness and pain? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing occasional chest discomfort and pain. I recalled that about a year ago, I fell forward while skateboarding, and my chest hit the ground hard. It was very painful at the time, but it eventually got bette...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the X-ray did not reveal any specific issues, and the pain increases with exertion. This suggests that it may be caused by a muscle injury. I recommend using some oral or topical anti-inflammatory medications, which should help improve your condi...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns
Can Chest Pain from Muscle Injury Heal on Its Own?
Excluding heart and lung issues, the chest muscle is injured? Hello Doctor, I am the inquirer with ID 161912. Thank you very much for your response. I would like to ask if, after ruling out heart and lung issues, the sensation of chest tightness and pain is indeed caused by a mus...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, your condition does seem more like a muscle strain. Typically, it's advisable to rest the injured area and consider using topical analgesic ointments. If the pain persists, you may want to consult an orthopedic specialist or a family medicine physician. If a Western m...[Read More] Can Chest Pain from Muscle Injury Heal on Its Own?