Understanding Tuberculosis Transmission: Common Myths and Facts
I would like to inquire about tuberculosis infection? Hello, Doctor. I apologize for interrupting you during your busy schedule. I have some questions regarding tuberculosis (TB) and I hope you can help me. Thank you. 1. Can tuberculosis be transmitted through objects, books, cl...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Tuberculosis (TB) is primarily transmitted through airborne droplets. You need not worry excessively about the risk of transmission through objects that the patient has touched, as it is extremely low. If you are in the same space as the patient, normal breathing can poten...[Read More] Understanding Tuberculosis Transmission: Common Myths and Facts
Understanding Post-Pneumothorax Recovery: Common Concerns and Symptoms
Questions Regarding the Treatment of Pneumothorax Hello, doctor. I underwent a chest tube insertion surgery yesterday due to a pneumothorax caused by acupuncture. I am currently using underwater drainage with the chest tube. This morning, I used a wall suction device and have bee...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello, the question you raised requires clinical judgment and should be assessed by your physician. Please direct your inquiries to your healthcare provider. Wishing you good health, Dr. Chou-Tzu-Kuang.[Read More] Understanding Post-Pneumothorax Recovery: Common Concerns and Symptoms
Am I Suffering from Chronic Bronchitis? Understanding the Symptoms
Please provide the content you would like me to translate into English? Am I suffering from chronic bronchitis?
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello: Chronic cough with phlegm persists, indicating chronic bronchitis. Identifying the primary cause can lead to improvement after treatment.[Read More] Am I Suffering from Chronic Bronchitis? Understanding the Symptoms
Breathing Difficulties, Chest Tightness, and Coughing Up Blood: What to Do?
Shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing up blood? I have mild asthma and recently I've been feeling tightness in the area between my throat and collarbone, making it difficult to breathe smoothly. I also experience wheezing when I breathe and have nasal congestion...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello Mr. Chen: Asthma patients who do not use inhaled corticosteroids or long-acting bronchodilators regularly are at risk of asthma exacerbations during weather changes. If you experience wheezing or shortness of breath, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly! Hemop...[Read More] Breathing Difficulties, Chest Tightness, and Coughing Up Blood: What to Do?
Understanding Coughing and Breathing Difficulties: When to See a Doctor
Respiratory cough Hello Doctor: I have been coughing for about a week. I cough when I inhale, and sometimes I experience a bit of difficulty exhaling. I have a history of allergic rhinitis and a smoking habit. Is there a connection between these factors? I do not have a cold; sho...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: Coughing may be associated with allergic rhinitis and smoking, but it is not necessarily the case. Therefore, it is still necessary to undergo an examination by a pulmonologist. Best regards.[Read More] Understanding Coughing and Breathing Difficulties: When to See a Doctor
Can You Diagnose Asthma Without Coughing Symptoms?
Is it asthma? Hello doctor, I later went for a consultation and underwent a bronchial provocation test, which came back positive. The diagnosing physician diagnosed me with asthma. Aside from sudden shortness of breath, chest tightness, and a feeling of bronchial constriction, I ...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: This indicates bronchial sensitivity and hyperreactivity, which has a very high likelihood of being asthma; however, it is not 100% certain and requires further clinical observation for determination. Respectfully, I submit this for your consideration.[Read More] Can You Diagnose Asthma Without Coughing Symptoms?
Persistent Cough for Over Two Months: Causes and Concerns
Coughing intermittently for more than two months? Hello, doctor. I traveled abroad in December, and during that time, I started to catch a cold, which later developed into a cough. Initially, around January, my cough became severe, and the phlegm was green. After seeing the docto...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: It may be chronic bronchitis. The primary recommendation is to quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke and air pollution. When air quality is poor, it is advisable to wear a mask. To determine if there is lung cancer, a chest X-ray or CT scan is necessary, as a diagnosis c...[Read More] Persistent Cough for Over Two Months: Causes and Concerns
Persistent Cough and Sore Throat: Is It Bronchitis or GERD?
I have had a cough and sore throat for a month? I had influenza type A a month ago, and my cough and sore throat have not improved at all over the past month. My voice is also hoarse. I visited an otolaryngologist who performed a laryngoscopy and found nothing abnormal, and they ...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello, to confirm gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), you can visit a gastroenterologist and consider undergoing an endoscopy. Wishing you good health, Dr. Chou-Tzu-Kuang.[Read More] Persistent Cough and Sore Throat: Is It Bronchitis or GERD?
Should You See a Doctor for Coughing Up Blood?
Coughing up blood-stained sputum? Hello doctor, I was recently diagnosed with influenza. Since yesterday, I have been experiencing a severe sore throat (with persistent coughing) and it hurts a lot when I swallow saliva. This morning, I coughed up phlegm that had streaks of blood...
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Hello: Coughing up blood is commonly seen in clinical practice and may be related to severe coughing. However, it is still advisable to at least obtain a chest X-ray to ensure there are no lesions in the lungs for peace of mind.[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for Coughing Up Blood?
Understanding Dry Cough and Right Chest Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Dry cough with right chest pain? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing low-grade fevers around 37.5-38 degrees Celsius in the afternoons for the past two weeks. About 4-5 days ago, I visited a clinic due to mild coughing symptoms, and after a urine test, the doctor diagnosed me...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello Ms. Lin: Since you have been experiencing a cough and low-grade fever for the past two weeks, it is recommended to have another chest X-ray to confirm that there are no signs of lung infection (including tuberculosis). Latent tuberculosis infection indicates that you have b...[Read More] Understanding Dry Cough and Right Chest Pain: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Chronic Cough with Blood: Causes and Next Steps
Coughing with discomfort in the trachea and blood-tinged sputum? Hello, Doctor. Ever since I recovered from a prolonged cough four years ago, I now experience discomfort in my trachea and sometimes notice blood in my cough whenever I catch a cold and cough. (Four years ago, my co...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: You may want to visit an otolaryngologist to check for any nasopharyngeal and sinus issues. Additionally, it is recommended to see a pulmonologist for a repeat chest X-ray. Please consult with the pulmonologist to determine if a chest CT scan, bronchoscopy, or other examin...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Cough with Blood: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Lung X-Ray Findings: What Could 'Grape-Like' Growths Mean?
The chest X-ray shows grape-like structures? Hello, doctor. My mother is 56 years old and has been coughing for nearly a year. After visiting several nearby clinics, she hasn't improved and still coughs occasionally. I took her to the hospital for an X-ray in the past couple...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello, without reviewing the X-ray and clinical examination, I cannot provide further advice. Please take the films to a pulmonologist for discussion. Wishing you good health, Dr. Chou Tzu-Kuang.[Read More] Understanding Lung X-Ray Findings: What Could 'Grape-Like' Growths Mean?
Understanding Itchy Sensations in the Left Chest: Causes and Concerns
Itchy sensation in the left thoracic cavity? Hello Dr. Jian: I previously had a cold and coughed up blood. I later had a CT scan, and the doctor said my lungs were fine and my lung function was normal. However, I now cough less, but I often feel an itch in my left chest cavity (w...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to perform a bronchoscopy. Sincerely, [Your Name].[Read More] Understanding Itchy Sensations in the Left Chest: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Right Chest Pain: Causes, Concerns, and Next Steps
There is a noticeable pain in the upper right chest and near the armpit? Hello Doctor: 1. I have been smoking for about 10 years. The dentist said I have periodontal disease, and my teeth are prone to inflammation and food getting stuck. Occasionally, I cough up blood, but I&#x...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello: Chest pain upon palpation is often due to localized neuromuscular pain. When chest pain reaches a certain severity in lung cancer, it is often due to invasion of the pleura. A chest CT scan has been performed; please discuss this further with your physician.[Read More] Understanding Right Chest Pain: Causes, Concerns, and Next Steps
Three-Week Cough: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns About Lung Cancer
Coughing for approximately three weeks? Hello Doctor, (1) I have been coughing for over three weeks, with symptoms of dryness and itchiness in the throat and trachea that fluctuate; sometimes it itches a lot, and other times it's manageable. (2) I do not cough while sleep...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello: There are many causes of cough, and early-stage lung cancer often presents with non-specific symptoms. Please consult a physician for a diagnosis.[Read More] Three-Week Cough: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns About Lung Cancer
Chronic Cough for Over Two Months: Should I Worry About Lung Cancer?
Intermittent cough for more than two months? Hello doctor, I started coughing about a month ago, accompanied by green sputum. I have seen several doctors and have taken three different antibiotics. The green sputum and cough have improved, but I still occasionally cough a few tim...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello: 1. It is recommended to quit smoking. 2. You may go to the pulmonology department for a follow-up chest X-ray.[Read More] Chronic Cough for Over Two Months: Should I Worry About Lung Cancer?
Persistent Cough and Weakness: Exploring Alternatives to Sputum Tests
I have been coughing continuously, and recently my body has been feeling increasingly weak? Hello doctor, I've been coughing since early December and it's now early February. At first, I thought it was just a cold, so I didn't seek medical attention. A few days bef...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Sam: Coughing for three weeks and testing sputum is a basic concept in tuberculosis screening. Since your boyfriend is also a pulmonary tuberculosis patient, you should definitely get tested. The first sputum sample in the morning is generally more accurate, but it doesn...[Read More] Persistent Cough and Weakness: Exploring Alternatives to Sputum Tests
Understanding Blood-Streaked Phlegm: Causes and Concerns
Occasionally, sputum may contain blood streaks? Hello doctor, after New Year's Day this year, I noticed blood-streaked phlegm, but I don't have a cough. It improved for a while, but recently the blood streaks have returned. I had an X-ray at a major hospital on January ...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello: If there are blood-streaked sputum and no significant lung disease is found after evaluation by a pulmonologist, you may first visit an otolaryngologist to check for any throat issues. Additionally, a follow-up chest X-ray is still necessary.[Read More] Understanding Blood-Streaked Phlegm: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Chronic Intermittent Cough: Causes and Treatment Options
Chronic intermittent cough? Hello, Dr. Zhou. I have been experiencing intermittent coughing for a year. I always feel like I can't clear my left lung, and my left throat is itchy. Whenever it itches, I feel the urge to cough. Occasionally, I have some clear phlegm, which is ...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello: 1. There are many causes of chronic cough. In addition to issues related to the lungs and bronchitis, it may also be due to post-nasal drip, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), asthma, and other possibilities that require further differential diagnosis. 2. For the pulm...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Intermittent Cough: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Nasal Congestion and Persistent Phlegm: Causes and Solutions
Nasal congestion with phlegm in the throat? Hello doctor, I have a problem with nasal allergies. I have been smoking for 12 years, and recently I often have phlegm in my throat (all day long), which is colorless and requires a lot of effort to cough up. Coughing hard causes chest...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Your main issue is still nasal allergies and post-nasal drip. It is recommended that you regularly consult an otolaryngologist for treatment and advice. Best wishes![Read More] Understanding Nasal Congestion and Persistent Phlegm: Causes and Solutions