Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Left chest tightness and pain, near the heart area? Sudden chest discomfort without any physical impact, characterized by a dull ache rather than sharp pain or palpitations. I have been experiencing intermittent left chest pain for three days (with fluctuations in intensity). Aft...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Your age indicates a lower probability of heart disease, and your electrocardiogram shows no abnormalities. It seems more like neuralgia (consider adjusting your lifestyle if you are experiencing high stress and a fast pace of life), or it could be esophageal spasm or gast...[Read More] Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Latent vs. Active Tuberculosis: What You Need to Know
Question about pulmonary tuberculosis? In the case of tuberculosis (TB), if a person shows no symptoms, has no discomfort, and experiences no cough, but a chest X-ray reveals shadows in the lungs, and subsequent tests show a negative sputum smear for TB bacteria but a positive ba...
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Hello: It is still classified as open, with a transmissibility of 17%.[Read More] Understanding Latent vs. Active Tuberculosis: What You Need to Know
Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Chest tightness or pain? A couple of nights ago, I went to bed a bit late, and the next day I woke up with a sore throat, but I'm not sure if it's a cold. However, tonight before going to sleep, I felt a tightness in my chest, and around 3 AM, I experienced some pain. I...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: It sounds like a cold. If the symptoms persist, you may want to see a pulmonologist. The chest pain should not be related to your clothing![Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Heart Health
Mild chest pain? Hello Doctor: During high school, I occasionally experienced a squeezing pain in my heart. As I got older, the squeezing pain became associated with a feeling of not being able to breathe, requiring me to take deep breaths. I can feel my heart beating very strong...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: You are still young and not yet at the age of vascular aging. Some young individuals may experience heart valve issues. Since you are concerned about potential heart problems, it is advisable to consult a cardiologist for peace of mind![Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Heart Health
Understanding Coughing Up Blood: Causes and Next Steps for Patients
Coughing and sneezing with the presence of blood-tinged sputum, blood streaks, or blood spots? The patient has a long-term history of post-nasal drip and gastroesophageal reflux, has been taking cholesterol-lowering medication for an extended period, exercises infrequently, and h...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Based on the above, it seems that the microvasculature of the nasal cavity, throat, or trachea is relatively fragile and can easily rupture and bleed due to increased pressure (such as from coughing, sneezing, or lifting heavy objects). The bleeding is usually minimal and ...[Read More] Understanding Coughing Up Blood: Causes and Next Steps for Patients
Understanding Coughing and Blood in Sputum: Is Lung Cancer a Concern?
Please consult a doctor? Hello Doctor, I have a smoking habit and occasionally experience a few coughs and a scratchy throat. This morning, when I woke up and coughed up phlegm, I noticed that it seemed to have blood in it; it was a light pink color mixed with clear phlegm. I...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Here are three simple suggestions! 1. First, consult an otolaryngologist to confirm that the blood-tinged sputum is not due to mucosal damage in the nasal cavity, throat, or oral cavity (including the gums)! 2. If the otolaryngologist confirms that it is not from the above...[Read More] Understanding Coughing and Blood in Sputum: Is Lung Cancer a Concern?
Can Tuberculosis Still Be Contagious After Completing Treatment?
Can tuberculosis still be contagious after completing medication treatment? My father-in-law has tuberculosis but has completed his medication treatment and is currently going to the hospital for regular check-ups and follow-ups. My child is currently over three months old, and m...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: After completing treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis, the chance of relapse is less than 5%. If regular follow-up chest X-rays show stability and there are no symptoms such as fever or significant cough with sputum, you should be treated like a normal person, and there wi...[Read More] Can Tuberculosis Still Be Contagious After Completing Treatment?
Understanding Emphysema and Chronic Lung Infiltration: Key Insights
Pulmonary emphysema with bilateral pulmonary infiltrates? Hello, I recently had a medical check-up at a medical center in Kaohsiung. The chest X-rays (frontal and right lateral views) showed: a curved aorta, hyperinflation of the lungs, emphysema with chronic infiltrates in both ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Chest X-ray findings can vary greatly. For example, a tall and slender person may appear to have emphysema or chronic pulmonary infiltrates, which could be associated with a history of chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis, or exposure to dust in the work environment. It is r...[Read More] Understanding Emphysema and Chronic Lung Infiltration: Key Insights
Understanding Recurring Pneumothorax: Symptoms, Risks, and Recovery
Pneumothorax occurred twice? Hello Doctor, I have a history of pneumothorax twice in 2015, once on the left side and once on the right side, both requiring thoracoscopic surgery and pleural adhesion treatment. Last September, I experienced a slight recurrence of air in my right c...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Having undergone pleurodesis can reduce the risk of recurrent pneumothorax, but it does not guarantee that it will not occur again. If you experience severe chest pain or have difficulty breathing, it is advisable to have a follow-up chest X-ray to rule out the possibility...[Read More] Understanding Recurring Pneumothorax: Symptoms, Risks, and Recovery
Left Chest Discomfort: Itching, Pain, and Numbness Explained
There is a slight tightness and itching in the left chest? Recently, I had some discomfort and saw a cardiologist, but there were no issues found. However, I still feel discomfort in my left chest. Sometimes, I experience itching below the chest (around the ribs), and occasionall...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: You have already seen a cardiologist, and given your young age, the likelihood of heart disease is very low. It is recommended to exercise more, stretch your muscles, and ensure adequate sleep, which should lead to improvement![Read More] Left Chest Discomfort: Itching, Pain, and Numbness Explained
Cough Management During Tracheostomy Decannulation Training
Tracheostomy tube decannulation training - Coughing issues? Hello doctor, my grandmother was undergoing tracheostomy tube weaning training today, but she coughs roughly every 15-25 minutes, and each time it is quite severe, lasting about 5-10 seconds. It has been four hours now, ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: If the cough is due to excessive phlegm, it can only rely on caregivers to enhance chest physiotherapy and suctioning. If there is not much phlegm and the airways are just more sensitive, cough suppressants can be used to reduce cough sensitivity. Family members should pri...[Read More] Cough Management During Tracheostomy Decannulation Training
Understanding Chest Pain in Lung Cancer: Clinical Insights and Differentiation
Chest pain in lung cancer? Doctor, what is the clinical experience regarding chest pain in lung cancer? How can it be differentiated? Thank you.
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Jin Kang: There are many causes of chest pain. Chest pain associated with lung cancer is typically due to invasion of the pleura or bones, resulting in persistent pain that is not easily alleviated with standard analgesics. Of course, it is important to visit a hospital for ...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain in Lung Cancer: Clinical Insights and Differentiation
Understanding Lung Adenocarcinoma: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
About lung adenocarcinoma? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a cold with symptoms of cough, runny nose, and sore throat since mid-February. I have seen 3 to 4 doctors over the course of about 10 days without improvement. Eventually, I discovered that my symptoms were due to ...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
DEAR LEE: Based on your description, I think one diagnosis that must be considered is tuberculosis. Tuberculous lymphadenitis typically does not present with afternoon fevers, so tuberculosis should be considered. Please visit an otolaryngologist for a biopsy; it is unlikely to b...[Read More] Understanding Lung Adenocarcinoma: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Understanding Sudden Right Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns
Sharp and dull pain in the right chest? Hello Doctor: Recently, I have experienced two episodes of sudden chest discomfort and sharp pain in my right chest. Both times, the discomfort started suddenly and usually lasted for more than an hour. The first episode occurred in the off...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: It is primarily similar to neuropathic pain, and there should be no pulmonary disease. Avoiding excessive emotional stress can be helpful![Read More] Understanding Sudden Right Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Tuberculosis Transmission Risks in Family Caregivers
Transmission of Tuberculosis (TB) Hello doctor, my grandfather was suspected of having tuberculosis today and has been moved to an isolation ward. My father visits him every day without wearing a mask and has helped wipe away the phlegm my grandfather coughed up. Now my father ha...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: 1. Please do not worry too much until the doctor confirms that your grandfather has tuberculosis. Additionally, it is recommended to wear a mask (N95) when entering the negative pressure isolation room. 2. The symptoms of tuberculosis can be assessed using the seven-point ...[Read More] Understanding Tuberculosis Transmission Risks in Family Caregivers
Understanding Chest Tightness, Chronic Laryngitis, and Cough Symptoms
Chest tightness & chronic laryngitis & cough Hello doctor, I have been experiencing this issue for about six months. It started after a common cold that took a long time (over two months) to recover from. Since then, I have been left with the following symptoms: 1. My thr...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Currently, there are no significant abnormalities in the Western medical examination results. It is recommended to consult with a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner to see if there are any medications or lifestyle adjustments that can be made.[Read More] Understanding Chest Tightness, Chronic Laryngitis, and Cough Symptoms
Understanding Heart Pain and Breathing Issues: A Guide to Mitral Valve Prolapse
Chest pain and shortness of breath? Hello, doctor. I am 165 cm tall and weigh 45 kg. Since high school, I have occasionally experienced shortness of breath, and during severe episodes, I have fainted. However, when I go to the emergency room, they often say there is nothing wrong...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello, for heart issues, it is still recommended to consult a cardiologist for examination. Other problems causing shortness of breath cannot be ruled out. You may also consider a consultation with a pulmonologist. Please follow the guidance of your treating physician. Changhua H...[Read More] Understanding Heart Pain and Breathing Issues: A Guide to Mitral Valve Prolapse
Could Back Pain and Coughing Indicate Lung Cancer? A Patient's Concern
Experiencing back pain for two months, along with a recent onset of a dry cough, could raise concerns about various conditions, including lung cancer. However, these symptoms can also be associated with other medical issues. It is important to consult a healthcare professional fo...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Your age, recent X-ray examination, and history of exposure to carcinogens are not significant. You currently belong to a low-risk group for lung cancer. As for the pain in your upper back, you have already consulted with a rehabilitation specialist. Please follow the phys...[Read More] Could Back Pain and Coughing Indicate Lung Cancer? A Patient's Concern
Understanding Shortness of Breath: Causes and Symptoms Explained
Shortness of breath? The doctor would like to ask about recent symptoms of suddenly feeling unable to breathe, experiencing shortness of breath that requires taking a deep breath to alleviate. There is no chest tightness, but currently, there is some phlegm in the throat that can...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Unstable weather can also cause similar symptoms. If the symptoms persist, it is still recommended to visit a pulmonology clinic for evaluation and to undergo a chest X-ray. Best wishes![Read More] Understanding Shortness of Breath: Causes and Symptoms Explained
Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Left chest pain? Hello, doctor. I am currently a student. During high school, I had an electrocardiogram (ECG) done, and no abnormalities were found at that time. I experienced a pain during my freshman year; it occurred suddenly while I was at home in the evening. The pain was i...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Young individuals experiencing chest pain should visit a thoracic specialist for a chest X-ray to rule out pulmonary diseases and assess for any potential heart issues![Read More] Understanding Left Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help