Should We Take My Father to the ER for Worsening COPD and Lung Cancer?
My father has been getting worse after his recent follow-up visit and hospitalization. Should we go to the emergency room? My father was diagnosed with COPD five years ago, and his lung function has been declining since then. Last year, he was also diagnosed with lung adenocarcin...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello Mr. Tsai, regarding your question about whether to go to the emergency room for hospitalization, let me start with the conclusion: it depends on what you expect the emergency hospitalization to accomplish. During the Lunar New Year period, examinations, medications, and oxy...[Read More] Should We Take My Father to the ER for Worsening COPD and Lung Cancer?
Is Choking on Food Causing My Father's Fever and Pneumonia?
Could this be pneumonia caused by aspiration of food? Thank you? Hello, recently my dad choked while eating. I immediately helped him by patting his back, and he coughed as well. He mentioned that the feeling of having something stuck is lessened. However, that afternoon after he...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: The bronchi in the human body instinctively produce a cough response to external stimuli in order to expel foreign objects. Based on your description, your father accidentally choked, and although patting his back has improved the situation, the subsequent symptoms of chil...[Read More] Is Choking on Food Causing My Father's Fever and Pneumonia?
Understanding Lung Nodules: A Patient's Journey Through Medical Follow-Up
Health Report Hello Dr. Zhang, I had a chest X-ray report during my company health check in 2016 that noted "suspected nodular lesions in the left lower lung, recommended outpatient follow-up." I followed up at the hospital that year, and after the doctor marked it with...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello Mr. Lin, if the low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan in February of the 110th year did not reveal any lesions, then there are none. Chest X-rays have many limitations, and the radiologist may have observed artifacts; even if it appears to be a nipple, it must be reported....[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: A Patient's Journey Through Medical Follow-Up
Feeling a Tightness in the Chest: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
It feels like there is a lump in my chest? Hello doctor, for the past couple of days, I have been feeling like there is something stuck in my chest that I need to cough out, which has resulted in a cough. However, my body temperature is normal (around 36.3-36.4°C), and I do not h...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Cold weather or increased life stress can both contribute to such feelings. If you are concerned, you can visit a pulmonologist for a chest X-ray to rule out any active lung diseases.[Read More] Feeling a Tightness in the Chest: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Upper Right Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Next Steps
Tightness and warmth in the upper right abdomen near the rib cage? Recently, I have been experiencing a tight sensation in the upper right abdomen (approximately from above the navel to below the lower rib margin). Sometimes, it feels warm (similar to the sensation of a heating p...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello Mr. Ken, based on your symptoms and the tests conducted, the most common issue appears to be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and its related symptoms. This is usually associated with abnormal eating habits (e.g., eating late-night snacks before lying down) or irregul...[Read More] Understanding Upper Right Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Chest Pain: When to Seek Help for Intermittent Symptoms
Chest pain? Hello Doctor, recently I have been experiencing a sharp pain near the center of my left chest, about one finger's length below the clavicle. Sometimes it feels like a throbbing pain, but it is always in the same spot, occurring intermittently for two to three min...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, your condition appears to involve some nonspecific symptoms, which do not necessarily indicate that there is a problem with your body. It is recommended that you first visit a pulmonology clinic for some basic examinations. If the test results ar...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: When to Seek Help for Intermittent Symptoms
Exposure to Bleach Fumes: Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help
Inhaled fumes from bleach? While cleaning the bathroom in the evening, I accidentally mixed bleach with other cleaning agents, resulting in inhalation of excessive irritating gases. I immediately rinsed off the cleaning agents with cold water, but I experienced symptoms such as c...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello Ms. Wan, the actual situation depends on the composition of the cleaning agent that was mixed with the bleach (brand, product name). Please consult a toxicology department. Additionally, if you continue to experience wheezing, difficulty breathing, or if your symptoms worse...[Read More] Exposure to Bleach Fumes: Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Factors Affecting Predicted Total Lung Capacity (TLC) Values
Issues with Predicted Values of Total Lung Capacity (TLC) Hello, doctor. I underwent pulmonary function tests at two different hospitals, and the results showed that both hospitals measured my Total Lung Capacity (TLC) to be around 5 liters. However, one hospital's predicted...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: The predicted values for pulmonary function tests are based on various parameters such as height, weight, age, sex, and ethnicity. In principle, the standards should be the same in Taiwan. Generally, in Taiwan, the predicted Total Lung Capacity (TLC) for males is approxima...[Read More] Understanding Factors Affecting Predicted Total Lung Capacity (TLC) Values
Chronic Cough After Giant Cell Tumor Surgery: When to Get a CT Scan?
Coughing for three months: is it appropriate to perform a CT scan? Giant cell tumor of bone? I previously had a giant cell tumor of bone, which was found on my lumbar spine. Not long after, I underwent surgery with a neurosurgeon in February to remove it. Currently, I am using de...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello Mr. Mi, there are many questions: 1. Regarding the main issue: Is it possible to get a CT scan after coughing for three months? If you are paying out of pocket, it depends on whether you want to spend the money and expose yourself to radiation; if you want insurance cover...[Read More] Chronic Cough After Giant Cell Tumor Surgery: When to Get a CT Scan?
Understanding Occasional Left Chest Discomfort While Lying Down
When lying down, there is a fluttering sensation in the left chest, but it is not painful? Hello doctor, I usually don't have such issues, but today I felt very uncomfortable due to bloating after eating too much meat for lunch. I didn't eat much for dinner, just had tw...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it does not currently appear to be a heart issue. I recommend monitoring your condition for another day or two. If symptoms persist, please visit a pulmonology clinic for further evaluation. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Occasional Left Chest Discomfort While Lying Down
Improving Breathing After Tracheostomy: Treatment Options Explored
Inability to breathe independently after tracheostomy? Dear Doctor: The patient has been unable to breathe independently for over three months after tracheostomy, and no other causes have been identified. Are there any better treatment options available?
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: This issue is very complex and requires further discussion with a pulmonologist, as problems with the heart, lungs, nutrition, and nervous system can all have an impact.[Read More] Improving Breathing After Tracheostomy: Treatment Options Explored
Understanding Persistent Cough with Phlegm: When to Seek Medical Attention
Frequent coughing with phlegm? My father is 65 years old and has never smoked. However, over the past year or two, he has experienced intermittent coughing with phlegm, which comes and goes. Previous chest X-rays have shown no abnormalities, so he is reluctant to see a doctor. Re...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello, Xiaoting. Your father is 65 years old, a non-smoker, but is exhibiting symptoms of chronic bronchitis, and his X-ray results are clear. Recently, he has had an exacerbation, which may be related to air quality or seasonal changes, but could also be due to other allergies o...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Cough with Phlegm: When to Seek Medical Attention
The Necessity of Switching to Long-Term Asthma Management Medications
The necessity of switching from Ruanwa to a more effective inhaler? Previously, I was diagnosed with allergic asthma due to a wheezing cough. I have been using Ruanwa (Montelukast) and Quyi Le (Budesonide) along with a short-acting bronchodilator as needed. This has been going on...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello Yuan, as described, if there are no symptoms during the day and night, we should compare lung function before and after to see if there is a significant difference. If there is not much difference, I personally tend to maintain the original medication regimen. Runwa is a re...[Read More] The Necessity of Switching to Long-Term Asthma Management Medications
Understanding Your Low Dose Lung CT Report: Key Insights and Next Steps
Lung LDCT Report Hello Doctor: Due to a recent family member being diagnosed with lung cancer, close relatives over the age of 40 have undergone LDCT screening. One of the reports is as follows: Finding: (Completion time of the examination is displayed on the images) Low Dose L...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello Alex, there is thickening of the pleura at both lung apices, with suspicion of left lower lung fibrosis +/- pulmonary nodules (series 4 image 67). There are no significant changes in the pleura. It is recommended to follow up. Best regards from the Department of Pulmonary M...[Read More] Understanding Your Low Dose Lung CT Report: Key Insights and Next Steps
Effective Remedies for Cough and Phlegm Relief in Lung Cancer Patients Post-Chemotherapy
What methods can be used to alleviate symptoms of persistent cough and difficulty expectorating phlegm in lung cancer patients after chemotherapy? Dear Doctor, My father needs to undergo an annual health check-up due to his work requirements. Unfortunately, this year's resu...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: The cough suppressants and expectorants commonly used in pulmonology are quite similar. It is recommended to discuss with your attending physician to adjust the medication that is more suitable for the patient's constitution. If necessary, a consultation with a tradit...[Read More] Effective Remedies for Cough and Phlegm Relief in Lung Cancer Patients Post-Chemotherapy
Post-Surgery Treatment Options for Stage IIB Lung Adenocarcinoma
Postoperative treatment for lung adenocarcinoma? Hello, doctor. My relative, aged 64, has been diagnosed with stage II B lung adenocarcinoma. They have completed tumor resection surgery, and genetic testing shows an EGFR mutation. The doctor is currently recommending adjuvant che...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello ALEX, assuming that there are no cancer cells in the mediastinal lymph nodes and the tumor resection is clean, currently, Taiwan's National Health Insurance covers adjuvant chemotherapy without issue. According to American guidelines, tumors with EGFR mutations are fur...[Read More] Post-Surgery Treatment Options for Stage IIB Lung Adenocarcinoma
Understanding Afternoon Breathlessness: Causes and Solutions for Students
Shortness of breath? For the past month, since the beginning of my freshman year in a new environment, I have been experiencing difficulty breathing in the classroom during the afternoons. This occurs sometimes for the entire afternoon and sometimes just for over an hour. I find ...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello, based on the description, if your mood is generally fine, it could primarily be an allergy issue, with a slight possibility of asthma. If the situation does not improve, you may consider visiting a pulmonology department to check for allergens and lung function issues. Cha...[Read More] Understanding Afternoon Breathlessness: Causes and Solutions for Students
Understanding Breathing Difficulties: Insights from Pulmonology
Respiratory issues Hello doctor, I have recently been feeling a sense of breathlessness. I can breathe, but it feels like I'm not getting enough air, which often leads me to take deep breaths or yawn involuntarily. However, my breathing is not rapid; I just find myself very ...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello Mr. He, here is a summary of the tests conducted: Normal findings include normal blood oxygen saturation, normal chest X-ray, normal blood tests, normal 24-hour Holter monitor, normal echocardiogram, and normal tachycardia (90-100 bpm). Abnormal finding: abnormal blood pres...[Read More] Understanding Breathing Difficulties: Insights from Pulmonology
Why Sleeping on Your Stomach Causes Breathing Issues: A Medical Insight
Waking up gasping for breath while sleeping on your stomach? I have recently been waking up gasping for air when I sleep on my stomach (about every 10 to 20 minutes), but it seems to be less of an issue when I sleep on my back (only once like this while stomach sleeping). However...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: When sleeping on the stomach, the movement of the chest can be less smooth, especially for those who are not accustomed to this position. It is recommended to primarily adopt a supine or lateral sleeping position![Read More] Why Sleeping on Your Stomach Causes Breathing Issues: A Medical Insight
Can You Get the BNT Vaccine If You're Allergic to Bronchodilators?
Vaccination Issues I have a history of allergy to bronchodilators and experience palpitations. Is it safe for me to receive the BNT vaccine?
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello, Ms. Ting. Currently, the vaccine does not contain any bronchodilator components. However, after receiving the BNT vaccine, please monitor for symptoms of myocarditis or pericarditis within two weeks (such as sudden onset and persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, or p...[Read More] Can You Get the BNT Vaccine If You're Allergic to Bronchodilators?