Understanding Multiple Small Nodules on Chest CT: What to Do Next?
Multiple small white spots on chest CT? Hello Doctor, I had a chest X-ray in February last year, and the doctor noted some suspicious small white spots. I then consulted a thoracic surgeon, who arranged for a CT scan in August. The CT results showed several small white spots in m...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: A follow-up chest CT scan is required, as chest X-rays typically cannot detect these small nodules. Thank you. Best regards.[Read More] Understanding Multiple Small Nodules on Chest CT: What to Do Next?
Understanding a 0.35 cm Lung Nodule: Diagnosis and Follow-Up Care
0.35 cm pulmonary nodule Hello, the physician noted that the chest X-ray showed an abnormality, leading to further examination at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, where another X-ray was taken. The doctor explained that there is a 0.35 cm nodule in the lung, which was asses...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, due to the numerous blood vessels and airway structures in the lungs, it is difficult for a chest X-ray to clearly distinguish nodules smaller than 0.5 centimeters. This may be a misunderstanding in communication. If you still have questions, it is reco...[Read More] Understanding a 0.35 cm Lung Nodule: Diagnosis and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Chest X-Ray Findings: Implications and Next Steps
Chest X-ray report issues? Today, I was hospitalized and had an X-ray taken. The report is as follows: Chest 1 view PA: Thoracoscoliosis with convexity to the right is noted. Increased lung markings in both lower lobes are present. Bilateral costophrenic angles are clearly iden...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Since we cannot view the original X-ray and chest CT scan images, it is advisable for you to consult the original examining hospital. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Chest X-Ray Findings: Implications and Next Steps
Chronic Cough with Blood-Streaked Sputum: When to Seek Medical Help
Nighttime cough predominantly with blood-tinged sputum? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing chronic cough, occasionally coughing once or twice. I have chronic conditions (diabetes and hypertension) that I manage with medication. Recently, over the past 2-3 weeks, I have notic...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: There are many conditions that can cause coughing up sputum with blood, including periodontal disease, gastrointestinal disorders, upper respiratory infections, pneumonia, or other pulmonary diseases. It is recommended that you visit a pulmonology clinic to clarify the cau...[Read More] Chronic Cough with Blood-Streaked Sputum: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Asthma: Do I Need Bronchodilators for Persistent Cough?
I am unsure whether I have asthma and uncertain if I should continue using the bronchodilator? Hello Doctor, I have had allergic rhinitis since childhood, and I have been coughing for three years. During this time, I have seen several pulmonologists due to reasons such as attendi...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: When asthma is not exacerbated, lung function can be normal. Typically, regular daily use of inhaled long-acting bronchodilators combined with corticosteroids should improve symptoms. In cases of allergic bronchitis, the use of bronchodilators should also lead to improveme...[Read More] Understanding Asthma: Do I Need Bronchodilators for Persistent Cough?
Chest Pain After Basketball Injury: When to Seek Further Medical Help
While playing basketball, I was elbowed in the left chest area where the heart is located? Hello, Doctor. Last Friday evening, I was elbowed while exercising, which caused some difficulty in breathing at that moment. After resting for a while, I was able to breathe normally. As o...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, your symptoms do indeed resemble those caused by a fascia, muscle, or soft tissue strain. Additionally, the chest X-ray shows no significant abnormalities. It is recommended that you continue with your current treatment, as pain from fascia or so...[Read More] Chest Pain After Basketball Injury: When to Seek Further Medical Help
Understanding Side Effects of Moderna Vaccine: When to Seek Medical Help
Side effects of the Moderna vaccine? I received my third dose of the Moderna vaccine on February 11, and by the end of February, I noticed red rashes appearing on my body that were itchy. I visited a dermatologist twice, and while there was slight improvement, the rashes still ap...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello Wen, the timing of these occurrences and the skin symptoms are less common for typical vaccine side effects. Symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, and chest pain suggest that you should consult a cardiologist to rule out serious side effects such as perica...[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Moderna Vaccine: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Nighttime Discomfort: Bloating and Breathing Issues While Lying Down
At night, when I lie flat to sleep, I experience bloating in my stomach, a feeling of breathlessness, and a sensation as if my throat is blocked. I keep burping air? Hello doctor, in the past year, whenever I lie down to sleep at night, I experience bloating in my stomach, and I ...
Dr. Wang Zhengde Reply:
Hello, Mr. Wu: Based on your statement, a more common condition would be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but other issues (such as dysphagia or esophageal achalasia) should still be considered. It is recommended that you visit a nearby pulmonology or gastroenterology clin...[Read More] Understanding Nighttime Discomfort: Bloating and Breathing Issues While Lying Down
Is There a Causal Link Between Pneumonia and Jaundice?
Is there a causal relationship between pneumonia and jaundice? Can pneumonia cause jaundice?
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: In principle, pneumonia and jaundice do not have a direct correlation; it is likely caused by other diseases. Thank you.[Read More] Is There a Causal Link Between Pneumonia and Jaundice?
Can Bile Duct Inflammation Lead to Lung Infections and Other Complications?
Is it possible for cholangitis to cause pneumonia or other complications? Cholangitis with the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream can potentially lead to other complications, such as pneumonia.
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: The question you asked is quite complex and does not have a clear answer. Cholangitis can vary in severity; generally, mild cholangitis can improve after treatment. However, if it is severe cholangitis accompanied by sepsis, there may be complications involving other organ...[Read More] Can Bile Duct Inflammation Lead to Lung Infections and Other Complications?
Understanding COPD Symptoms and Management: A Guide for Patients
Questions about pulmonary obstruction? My father is 68 years old and recently experienced severe coughing and shortness of breath in the middle of the night due to a cold front. He had phlegm and was taken to the emergency room, where they only performed an X-ray and did not cond...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, your father has a long history of smoking and exhibits symptoms related to pulmonary obstruction. After being evaluated by a qualified pulmonologist, there should be no issues with the diagnosis. Currently, for pulmonary obstruction, it is genera...[Read More] Understanding COPD Symptoms and Management: A Guide for Patients
Blood in Saliva Upon Waking: Possible Causes and Concerns
Blood in saliva while sleeping? Waking up with blood in your saliva after sleeping for almost three months could be indicative of several potential issues. It may be related to gastrointestinal problems, respiratory issues involving the chest or lungs, or other underlying conditi...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello, Xiao Ming. Blood in saliva is most commonly due to bleeding within the oral cavity, followed by bleeding from the nasopharynx, esophagus, or trachea. Therefore, it is recommended that you seek medical evaluation. The Department of Pulmonary Medicine at Changhua Hospital, M...[Read More] Blood in Saliva Upon Waking: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Weaning from Ventilation: A Guide for Families
Spontaneous breathing Hello, my father was sent to Chung Shan Hospital for emergency treatment after collapsing at home. After a period of treatment in the intensive care unit, his heart rate and blood pressure stabilized, but he remains in a coma with weak spontaneous breathing ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: The condition of your father and the ability to remove the tube (typically, for patients who are unconscious and unable to effectively cough up secretions, it is not recommended to remove the tube, as they are more likely to experience hypoxia due to ineffective clearance ...[Read More] Understanding Weaning from Ventilation: A Guide for Families
Understanding Right Breast Pain: Causes and Concerns for Women
Breast issues? Hello Doctor: For the past few days, I have been experiencing pain when pressing or squeezing the area around the 9 to 10 o'clock position on my right breast. When I sleep on my side, I need to tuck a blanket under my armpit to avoid putting direct pressure on...
Dr. Lu Mingzhi Reply:
Hello: If you are experiencing breast tenderness, I recommend that you visit a breast surgeon for a follow-up examination. If the pain is in another area of the right chest, you may schedule an appointment with our pulmonary medicine department to investigate the cause of the pai...[Read More] Understanding Right Breast Pain: Causes and Concerns for Women
Understanding Chest Pain: When Gastrointestinal Issues Aren't the Cause
I initially thought it was related to my gastrointestinal system, but it seems that it is not? Hello, Doctor. First, let me explain my situation. My health is very poor, and I often experience pain in multiple areas of my body. Because there are so many painful spots, I am unsure...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, did you see a pulmonologist six months ago, and have you since consulted a gastroenterologist or hepatologist? Has there been any improvement after taking medication? However, another six months have passed. If the pain has changed, it is advisab...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: When Gastrointestinal Issues Aren't the Cause
Understanding Abnormal Cell Keratin Antigen Levels in Pulmonary Health
The abnormal level of cell keratin antigen is slightly higher than normal? I would like to ask the doctor, does an abnormal level of squamous cell carcinoma antigen indicate a lot?
Dr. Lu Mingzhi Reply:
Hello: The cytokeratin antigen you are referring to is likely CYFRA 21-1. Elevated levels of cytokeratin antigen 21-1 should raise the possibility of lung cancer and esophageal cancer, and tumors in other locations may also cause an increase in this marker. Non-tumor conditions s...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Cell Keratin Antigen Levels in Pulmonary Health
Understanding Intermittent Left Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns
Left chest tenderness upon palpation? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask about a recent issue I've been experiencing. Occasionally, I feel a dull pain near my heart on the left side of my chest, close to the ribcage. This discomfort varies throughout the day; sometimes it hu...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: In the past six months, relevant examinations have not revealed any significant abnormalities, so there should be no obvious cardiopulmonary diseases. It is recommended to have a chest X-ray annually. It is advised not to press on the chest to test for improvement in chest...[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Left Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Right Chest Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Right chest pain? Waking up with pain in the right chest (slightly lower on the right side) and experiencing occasional discomfort when taking deep breaths, stretching, bending, or arching the back—could this be due to poor sleeping posture? Is this a strain of the chest muscles,...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: It feels more like muscle soreness (more noticeable during stretching). It is recommended not to maintain one position for too long, engage in moderate exercise, and remember to warm up before exercising![Read More] Understanding Right Chest Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Solid Lung Nodules: Monitoring and Follow-Up Care
Pulmonary nodule (solid) Hello Doctor, my mother underwent a CT scan in September 2020 based on the doctor's recommendation, which revealed multiple solid pulmonary nodules (measuring 0.4, 0.6, and 1 cm). Cancer markers and other tests returned normal results. However, due t...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello Mr. Han, you have three solid pulmonary nodules, the largest measuring 1 cm. It is certainly a good sign that there has been no change after three months of follow-up. However, the actual interpretation will depend on the reader's perspective, whether it leans towards ...[Read More] Understanding Solid Lung Nodules: Monitoring and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Patients
Chest pain, bilateral rib pain, and tenderness upon palpation of the bones beneath the breasts? Dear Deputy Director, Since tomorrow is New Year's Eve, my husband won't let me visit the pulmonology department, so I'm reaching out to you for help! I hope you can pr...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, some of your symptoms are more indicative of fibromyalgia, and you have undergone a series of tests that did not reveal any other abnormalities. It is recommended that you quit smoking and maintain a regular lifestyle. Please observe your conditi...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Patients