Understanding Chest Discomfort: When to See a Specialist
Chest tightness? I have been experiencing frequent chest tightness on the left side and increased shortness of breath compared to before. I underwent an examination in the cardiology department, and everything appeared normal. During the echocardiogram, it was noted that my heart...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello: You may first visit the pulmonary medicine department for consultation.[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: When to See a Specialist
Understanding Lung Atrophy: Symptoms, Treatment, and Rehabilitation
Pharmaceutical treatment for pulmonary atrophy symptoms? I previously received a misdiagnosis from a cardiologist and was prescribed sedatives, after which I experienced shortness of breath for two years. However, since November of this year, my breathing has improved somewhat, b...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: General sedatives do not have a significant impact on your lung function. You may have incomplete inhalation, resulting in a lower lung capacity. Changes in chest X-rays may indicate lung atrophy or pulmonary fibrosis. It is recommended that you consult a pulmonologist to ...[Read More] Understanding Lung Atrophy: Symptoms, Treatment, and Rehabilitation
Understanding Lung Nodules: When to Consider Surgical Removal?
The concerns of pulmonary nodules? Hello, Director Huang. I was diagnosed with stage I nasopharyngeal carcinoma in January 2022. A PET scan showed normal lungs, but during a follow-up CT in December 2022, a 0.8 x 1.3 mm oval non-solid nodule was found in the right lung. A broncho...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Xia: It is recommended to proceed with direct excision. Currently, thoracoscopic surgery is very convenient and safe. A 1.3 mm excision would provide more peace of mind. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: When to Consider Surgical Removal?
Understanding Tuberculosis Transmission and Risks in Family Members
Questions related to pulmonary tuberculosis? Hello, Doctor! My father was diagnosed with open pulmonary tuberculosis in 2020 and was hospitalized for nearly a year for treatment. After that, both my mother and my daughter tested positive and received preventive medication. I, mys...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Megan: In 2020, your father had tuberculosis, so it is most likely that he was the source of transmission. Tuberculosis is primarily transmitted within households. Currently, the incidence rate in Taiwan has decreased to 31 per 100,000. The chance of contracting it from outs...[Read More] Understanding Tuberculosis Transmission and Risks in Family Members
Understanding Thymus Remnants: Implications for Chronic Cough and Health
Please let me know your questions regarding the examination report? Hello Dr. Huang, I have been experiencing a persistent cough and often feel phlegm in my throat. I have seen many doctors at various clinics and taken numerous medications without improvement. Eventually, I went ...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Feng: The remnant of the thymus has no clinical significance. Your symptoms are likely due to an allergic reaction, which includes all respiratory issues. The chest pain is caused by chest tightness. Changhua Hospital is concerned about you.[Read More] Understanding Thymus Remnants: Implications for Chronic Cough and Health
Understanding Increased Lung Markings in Chest X-Ray Reports
Chest X-ray report - Increased pulmonary markings? Hello Dr. Huang, I recently received a chest X-ray report with the following findings. Are there any specific issues I should be concerned about? It mentions increased lung markings; could this be related to the cough and sputum ...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Xiao Zhu: The increased lung markings on the chest X-ray report do not have any significant clinical implications. This phenomenon can occur simply due to whether the lungs were fully inflated or not during the imaging. Some cases of bronchitis may also be related to this fi...[Read More] Understanding Increased Lung Markings in Chest X-Ray Reports
Understanding Back Pain in Lung Cancer Patients: Causes and Management
Lower back pain? Hello, I am diagnosed with stage 3B lung adenocarcinoma and currently undergoing treatment with Alectinib. Recently, I have been experiencing lower back pain and discomfort around my buttocks. The pain is not severe, but it can be uncomfortable during movement, a...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Xiao Ke: Pain is not necessarily indicative of metastasis; neuromuscular strains can also cause pain. If short-term use of pain relievers does not lead to improvement, a bone scan may be recommended. For now, it is advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist to rule out ot...[Read More] Understanding Back Pain in Lung Cancer Patients: Causes and Management
Understanding Lung Nodules: Importance of Follow-Up CT Scans
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan for Pulmonary Nodules Hello, Doctor. In May 2021, I had a CT scan. Summary: All information from the patient. Past medical history: Hypertension - , Diabetes Mellitus - , Coronary Artery Disease - , Asthma - , Surgical history - Personal history: Bet...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Since I cannot view the original chest CT scan images, I am unable to provide appropriate recommendations. I suggest discussing future management options with the attending physician at the hospital where the examination was performed. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Importance of Follow-Up CT Scans
Managing Chest Pain and Discomfort After CPR: Effective Solutions
Chest discomfort and pain caused by CPR compressions? Hello doctor, I was admitted to the hospital due to a myocardial infarction, and after more than two hours, my heart stopped. After resuscitation by the medical team, I am currently experiencing chest tightness, chest pain, an...
Dr. Zhang Youzheng Reply:
Hello: During CPR, pressure is applied to the sternum, heart, and lungs, which may lead to symptoms such as chest tightness, chest pain, and shortness of breath. At this point, it is important to first assess which organs or the sternum may have been injured. Understanding the ca...[Read More] Managing Chest Pain and Discomfort After CPR: Effective Solutions
Understanding Mediastinal Lymph Node Enlargement: When to Follow Up?
Mediastinal lymphadenopathy Doctor: Hello, here is the recent report from the low-dose lung CT scan: High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) of the Lung Clinical Information: chronic cough with sticky sputum, NIFTP HRCT of Chest. This study was performed without contrast enhan...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Since I cannot view the original chest CT scan images, I am unable to provide appropriate recommendations. I suggest discussing future management options with the attending physician at the hospital where the examination was performed. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Mediastinal Lymph Node Enlargement: When to Follow Up?
Understanding CXR Findings: What Do Nodular Opacities Mean for Your Health?
I feel anxious about the issues related to the CXR examination report? I recently visited a gastroenterologist because I felt an unusual sensation at the lower edge of my left rib cage. Initially, I thought there might be an issue with my stomach. I underwent a chest X-ray and ab...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Since I cannot view the original chest X-ray images, I am unable to provide appropriate recommendations. I suggest discussing this matter with the attending physician at the hospital where the examination was performed. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding CXR Findings: What Do Nodular Opacities Mean for Your Health?
Understanding Post-COVID Complications: Pleural Effusion and Back Pain
Pleural effusion, pleural fluid accumulation, coronavirus? Hello Doctor: My aunt was diagnosed with COVID-19 and a few days after her quarantine ended, she suddenly experienced severe lower back and waist pain. She has not been vaccinated. We took her to a new infectious disease ...
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Hello: Pleural effusion does not always yield bacterial cultures. Typically, broad-spectrum antibiotics are used to treat the bright red effusion, and there may be a suspicion of malignant effusion, which can be differentiated through pleural biopsy. Additionally, severe COVID-19...[Read More] Understanding Post-COVID Complications: Pleural Effusion and Back Pain
Understanding Your ALK Gene Test Results in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Genetic Testing Report Hello, I am diagnosed with stage 3B lung adenocarcinoma with an ALK gene mutation. I am currently undergoing treatment with Alectinib. A PET scan showed bright spots in the hilar region of the lungs; the thoracic oncologist indicated that these are old canc...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: It should still be the original mutation. For other questions, I suggest you consult your attending physician![Read More] Understanding Your ALK Gene Test Results in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Understanding Heart Palpitations and Lung Obstruction Symptoms
Palpitations and pulmonary obstruction? I have pulmonary obstruction, but I get breathless and in severe pain before I even reach the second floor. I feel my heart is tired and I'm gasping for air, experiencing weakness in my heart. I am more easily short of breath, have che...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: You have a problem with pulmonary obstruction. Based on your description, your current condition is relatively severe. Since diseases of the heart and lungs often affect each other, it is recommended that you first visit a pulmonology clinic for evaluation. After a complet...[Read More] Understanding Heart Palpitations and Lung Obstruction Symptoms
Understanding Your Chest CT Report: Key Insights and Next Steps
Chest CT Report I have been experiencing some random sharp pains in my right chest, particularly noticeable when drinking hot soup or bending over to work. I consulted a pulmonologist, and after an X-ray, the doctor suspected a nodule approximately 0.7 cm in size, while other are...
Dr. Wang Zhengde Reply:
Hello, Ah-Chung: Based on the findings from the attached CT scan and chest X-ray reports, there are some specific observations (1. reticular opacities and/or subpleural nodules in the right middle lobe, lingula of the left upper lobe, posterior right lower lobe, and left lower lo...[Read More] Understanding Your Chest CT Report: Key Insights and Next Steps
Are Herbal Cigarettes Safe? Understanding the Risks and Health Concerns
Is herbal smoking harmful? Recently, my family has been exposed to herbal cigarettes, which they emphasize do not contain nicotine or other carcinogens, claiming they are non-addictive and pose no issues. However, I believe that burning any substance produces particulate matter, ...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Regardless of the tobacco components, burning them can produce harmful substances, and long-term inhalation into the lungs may pose health risks. It is recommended to adhere to the principle of not using tobacco. Thank you.[Read More] Are Herbal Cigarettes Safe? Understanding the Risks and Health Concerns
Understanding Your Chest CT Report: Key Findings Explained
Chest CT Report Last Friday, I had a chest CT scan at Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital. This morning, I checked the imaging report on my health wallet, which states: "CT of the chest without IV contrast shows: 1. Reticular opacities and/or subpleural nodules in the right ...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Since I cannot view the original chest CT scan images, I am unable to provide appropriate recommendations. I suggest discussing future treatment options with the attending physician at the hospital where the examination was performed. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Your Chest CT Report: Key Findings Explained
Post-COVID Coughing Spells: Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Sudden persistent cough and weight loss after diagnosis? Hello, I would like to inquire about my current condition. It has been approximately three weeks since I tested positive and recovered. Currently, I experience severe coughing fits for about half an hour, usually one or two...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: After a COVID-19 infection, some patients do experience the symptoms you described. Some patients may improve after a period of time, while others may have symptoms that persist for a longer duration. If your symptoms continue, it is recommended that you visit a pulmonolog...[Read More] Post-COVID Coughing Spells: Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Sudden Breathing Difficulties: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Sudden shortness of breath? I'm sorry, doctor. Since this past Monday, I've suddenly felt a sensation of breathlessness. Sometimes I have to take deep breaths to relieve the discomfort, but I don't have a cough or significant wheezing, and it doesn't affect my...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, your symptoms are non-specific manifestations, making it difficult to determine the underlying cause. If your symptoms persist, you may want to visit a pulmonology clinic for further evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Sudden Breathing Difficulties: Understanding Causes and Solutions
Understanding Suspected Lung Obstruction: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Suspected pulmonary obstruction? I have been experiencing back pain for a year (not musculoskeletal pain, but pain related to the lungs). My lung capacity is poor, and when I inhale, it feels like I'm not exchanging air properly; it feels shallow, and I run out of breath qui...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: The symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can sometimes be quite similar. At times, we need to rely on the patient's medical history and exposure to risk factors for a comprehensive assessment before making a judgment. Additionally, it is...[Read More] Understanding Suspected Lung Obstruction: Symptoms and Diagnosis