Understanding Chest Pain and Shoulder Discomfort: Possible Causes and Concerns
Chest pain and shoulder pain? Hello doctor, I have recently been experiencing chest tightness, sharp pain along the edges of my ribs, and pain in my back and right shoulder. I had an X-ray in May of this year which showed: No active lung lesions, normal heart size, symmetry of bo...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: Early-stage lung cancer typically does not show rapid changes on a chest X-ray, but there are many blind spots that may not be visible. A chest computed tomography (CT) scan can be performed; however, since the chest X-ray appears normal, health insurance may not cover the...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Shoulder Discomfort: Possible Causes and Concerns
Struggling to Breathe: Understanding Throat Tightness and Hyperventilation
Experiencing difficulty in breathing while also hyperventilating? I have two questions: 1. Recently, I have been experiencing a tightening sensation in my throat and difficulty breathing. Just now, I felt like I couldn't breathe (and I still do). I stood up and took a few ...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: It could be a post-viral syndrome following COVID-19, or it might be asthma. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, there has indeed been an increase in patients like you in outpatient clinics. Most of them are able to adapt and recover. You may also consult with an otolaryngolog...[Read More] Struggling to Breathe: Understanding Throat Tightness and Hyperventilation
Understanding Lung Nodules: What Your CT Scan Results Mean
Lung computed tomography (CT) scan shows a nodule? Dear Doctor: I had a CT scan of my lungs, and the report results are as follows: I see there is a nodule, and I am very worried... Can you explain how a nodule (0.3cm, se3/im52) could occur? Shouldn't normal individuals typi...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Eason: Not all nodules are bad; it depends on their characteristics, such as whether they are solid, among other factors. A size of 0.3 cm is usually benign, and follow-up after one year is typically sufficient. The causes are often due to scarring from previous infections o...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: What Your CT Scan Results Mean
Understanding Lung Health: Addressing Concerns About Smoking and LDCT Results
Chest issues Hello Dr. Shen, I am 29 years old and have no family history of lung cancer. I have been wanting to quit smoking for many years but have not been able to. I have been smoking for less than 9 years and tend to feel anxious about my health. On June 2, 2022, and Decembe...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: Yes, please take care of yourself and live well. Life is tough, and I can empathize with your struggles. Let go of your burdens and try to enjoy life.[Read More] Understanding Lung Health: Addressing Concerns About Smoking and LDCT Results
Understanding Lung Nodules: Size and Follow-Up Recommendations Explained
Inquiry about pulmonary nodules? Hello doctor, I previously underwent a low-dose lung CT scan during a health check-up at a health screening center, not a hospital, so I did not have a doctor explain the report to me. It only mentioned that there is a nodule and recommended annua...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: You should undergo follow-up at the hospital, and if necessary, you will be referred for further evaluation. Imaging studies are also required for assessment.[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Size and Follow-Up Recommendations Explained
Understanding a 2.4 cm Lung Nodule: Risks and Next Steps
2 cm pulmonary nodule Hello, Dr. Shen. I have a CT scan of my lungs every six months, and this time a 2.4 cm ground-glass nodule has appeared that was not present six months ago. I read online that nodules over 2 cm should be removed, and that there is an 80-90% chance of maligna...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: It cannot be determined at this time. Please continue to monitor the situation and consult with your attending physician for further follow-up. Thank you, and wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding a 2.4 cm Lung Nodule: Risks and Next Steps
Can You Fly After Recovering from Pneumothorax Drainage?
Can a patient fly after recovering from a pneumothorax drainage? Hello, Doctor! My husband experienced chest pain on March 8 and was diagnosed with a pneumothorax. Due to the large size of the pneumothorax, the doctor recommended immediate chest tube insertion for drainage and pu...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: Not recommended.[Read More] Can You Fly After Recovering from Pneumothorax Drainage?
How Often Should You Get Low-Dose Lung CT Scans? A Patient's Inquiry
Please consult the doctor again? Hello, doctor. Last time I asked you a question, you advised me to let go and live peacefully. I understand your intention. I believe that my mental health issues require psychological treatment. I have informed my psychiatrist about these matters...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello, it can be done in 2 years.[Read More] How Often Should You Get Low-Dose Lung CT Scans? A Patient's Inquiry
Understanding CEA Levels and Ground-Glass Nodules in Lung Health
Abnormal CEA and Ground-Glass Opacity (GGO) Nodules? Recently, the CEA index from a health check was 7.1. A low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan of the lungs was performed for the first time, revealing two scattered ground-glass nodules in the right lung measuring approximately...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: A follow-up CT scan should be performed in 4 to 6 months. If there are no changes, the follow-up interval can be extended. There should be no direct correlation with radiation therapy.[Read More] Understanding CEA Levels and Ground-Glass Nodules in Lung Health
Understanding Lung Health Concerns: Anxiety, Fatigue, and Cancer Risks
Concerns about lung health Hello Doctor, I am a 41-year-old male, 172 cm tall and weighing 80 kg. I have been suffering from anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and hypochondria for over a decade. I have long-term issues with fatigue and poor sleep quality. My diet i...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello, Amitabha. Let go, and live peacefully.[Read More] Understanding Lung Health Concerns: Anxiety, Fatigue, and Cancer Risks
Managing Recurrent Spontaneous Pneumothorax After Bilateral Pleurodesis
The issue of recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax after bilateral pleural adhesion treatment? Fifteen years ago, I underwent bilateral pleurodesis due to spontaneous pneumothorax, and recently, it has recurred with an estimated air leak of about 30% on both sides, primarily concent...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: Regarding the expertise of a thoracic surgeon, I do not have experience in the surgical aspects, and it is best to consult your original surgeon for specific situations. As for the issue of flying with a pneumothorax, it is not advisable to fly if a pneumothorax is present...[Read More] Managing Recurrent Spontaneous Pneumothorax After Bilateral Pleurodesis
Delivery Riders and Lung Cancer Risk: What You Need to Know
Delivery workers and lung cancer? Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask the following questions: 1. Due to financial reasons, I have to spend a lot of time riding a scooter for food delivery (Foodpanda). If I continue this for 20 years, will my risk of developing lung cancer be si...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
1. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) currently classifies PM2.5 from air pollution as a Group 1 carcinogen (sufficient evidence), but the levels do not matter for individuals; it is simply a matter of presence or absence. 2. To state the conclusion directly...[Read More] Delivery Riders and Lung Cancer Risk: What You Need to Know
Understanding Lung Nodules: X-Ray vs. CT Scan Insights
X-ray examination - pulmonary nodule Hello Doctor: I would like to ask: 1. In recent years, chest X-rays have consistently shown a small nodule in the right lower lung measuring about 0.8 cm, with no change in size. Therefore, I underwent a full-body CT scan at Linkou Chang Gung ...
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Hello: Based on the CT report, the liver nodule should also be visible on the chest CT. It is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment to discuss with the physician whether the X-ray shows a hepatic hemangioma.[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: X-Ray vs. CT Scan Insights
Understanding Your CT Scan: No Nodules Found, But Why the Follow-Up?
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan The CT report states "lung: no remarkable nodular lesions (>0.4 cm)," which means there are no significant nodules larger than 0.4 cm in your lungs. However, your doctor may still recommend follow-up imaging for various reasons, such as ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: 1. X-rays cannot detect small nodules less than 0.5 cm, so the X-ray report is normal. 2. CT scans may have difficulty distinguishing small nodules smaller than 0.4 cm from normal vascular tissue, so nodules larger than 0.4 cm are more noteworthy. Your CT scan did not show...[Read More] Understanding Your CT Scan: No Nodules Found, But Why the Follow-Up?
Understanding Low-Dose CT Scan Reports: What Do Findings Mean?
Questions about Low-Dose CT Lung Report Hello, Director: I recently received a report from a low-dose lung CT screening stating "multiple areas of consolidation in the right middle lobe, suspicious for pneumonia or mass." I would like to ask if this refers to a solid sh...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
DEAR Jason: There are multiple areas of consolidation in the right middle lobe, suspected pneumonia or mass. Please return to Changhua Hospital for a follow-up examination as soon as possible. We care about you.[Read More] Understanding Low-Dose CT Scan Reports: What Do Findings Mean?
Does Fluoroquinolone Use Affect Tuberculosis Diagnosis?
Does the use of fluoroquinolones affect the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis? Hello Dr. Yang, I am a pharmacist. My boyfriend (who is the same age as me) previously went to the emergency room due to a fever, and an X-ray revealed lesions in his lungs. The doctor prescribed flu...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, I will prioritize considering a fungal infection. If the culture results from the second hospital show no tuberculosis, I will be less concerned about tuberculosis. Since the sputum smear is negative, there is no need to wear a mask continuously,...[Read More] Does Fluoroquinolone Use Affect Tuberculosis Diagnosis?
Understanding Fungal Infections and Tuberculosis: A Patient's Journey
Fungal infection and tuberculosis? On February 17 of this year, I had a fever of 39 degrees Celsius and went to the emergency room. An X-ray revealed a lesion in my right upper lung, and a subsequent CT scan showed a cavity in the right upper lung. The doctor informed me that it ...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to visit our outpatient clinic and bring relevant imaging studies. While it does increase the risk of cancer, there is no need to be overly anxious.[Read More] Understanding Fungal Infections and Tuberculosis: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Persistent Breathing Difficulties: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Shortness of breath? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing difficulty breathing and wheezing at night due to a cold, accompanied by cold sweats and numbness in my fingers. I have visited the emergency room multiple times, but blood tests and X-rays showed no issues. Subsequently...
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Hello: We need to check for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and thyroid issues. If the organs are functioning properly, we may need to consider a psychological evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Breathing Difficulties: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Can Lung Apex Pleural Thickening and Fibrosis Truly Reverse?
Is it possible for long-standing abnormalities on chest X-rays (such as apical pleural thickening and mild fibrosis) to reverse and heal without medication? Hello, I am a 50-year-old male, non-smoker and non-drinker. In 2018, I had my first chest X-ray at Hospital A, which reveal...
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Hello: Mild pleural thickening and fibrosis at the lung apex are likely irreversible reactions, but they do not cause chest pain and are considered old lesions. Some physicians may overlook these inactive lesions.[Read More] Can Lung Apex Pleural Thickening and Fibrosis Truly Reverse?
Understanding Chest X-Ray Results: Insights and Patient Guidance
Chest X-ray examination Hello Doctor, I recently had a chest X-ray at a hospital in the northern part of Taiwan, and the report stated: "mild infiltrates in both lower lungs. Suggest clinical correlation and follow-up. Blunting of left costophrenic angle. Otherwise, unremark...
Dr. Wang Zhengde Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it seems that your attending physician suspects an infection or other issues in your lungs and needs to obtain relevant specimens. Inhaling steam to help with mucus clearance is a feasible method. Suctioning mucus with a tube is also a commonly u...[Read More] Understanding Chest X-Ray Results: Insights and Patient Guidance