Understanding Lung CT Scans: Concerns About Nodules and Radiation Exposure
Pulmonary CT scan Hello, Chief Physician! Today I reviewed my report, and the nodule from two years ago has not changed, but there is one more nodule in another location. The internist suspects it is an infection and has advised a follow-up CT scan in three months. I am feeling v...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: 1. Low-dose chest computed tomography (CT) can be considered; currently, there are no specific methods to reduce radiation exposure, but increasing the intake of antioxidant-rich foods may help. 2. A lung CT scan does expose the breasts to radiation, which can still have a...[Read More] Understanding Lung CT Scans: Concerns About Nodules and Radiation Exposure
Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Thoracic issues Doctor, I would like to ask you about my persistent chest pain. Sometimes it is noticeable when I press on it, and at other times it feels sharp. The chest pain has become quite frequent; I experience it when I use the treadmill, even though I have been exercising...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: It feels more like neuropathic pain, so try to avoid cold beverages and set the treadmill to a manageable intensity.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Left Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Discomfort in the left chest? Recently, I've been experiencing a tight sensation in my left chest that usually lasts for only two to three seconds, or sometimes just one second, similar to the feeling of a skipped heartbeat when startled. I have consulted a cardiologist, but...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello: Please visit the Department of Pulmonary Medicine or the Department of Thoracic Surgery.[Read More] Understanding Left Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Unexplained Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Intermittent sharp pain on both sides of the chest? Hello! I am a full-time mom. In February of this year, I underwent gallbladder removal surgery due to gallstones. Since then, I have been experiencing chest pain that varies in location; sometimes it occurs on the left side, som...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello: You may first discuss with a neurologist.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Help
Post-Thoracoscopic Surgery Cough: Duration and Management Insights
Coughing after thoracoscopic surgery? Hello, doctor. I underwent a thoracoscopic surgery to remove a small piece of lung tissue due to a pneumothorax a little over a month ago. The surgery was brief, and my recovery has been good, but I have been coughing continuously since the p...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: There are many reasons for coughing after thoracoscopic surgery. The initial cough may be due to damage to the lungs and pleura caused by the surgery, which will improve as the injuries heal. It may also be related to intubation during the surgery, which can cause tracheal...[Read More] Post-Thoracoscopic Surgery Cough: Duration and Management Insights
Understanding Lung Health: Evaluating an 86-Year-Old's Chest X-Ray Findings
Grandmother's health check report? Dear Dr. Yang, My grandmother, who is 86 years old, has the following findings from her health check-up report: Both lungs show clear vascular markings. In the left lower lobe, near the hilum, there is a soft tissue mass measuring approxim...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: To determine whether it is a malignant tumor, a pathological report from a tissue biopsy is required. For older patients, a biopsy (puncture) may be less distressing.[Read More] Understanding Lung Health: Evaluating an 86-Year-Old's Chest X-Ray Findings
Are Herbal Cigarettes and Tea Smoking Harmful to Lung Health?
Are herbal smoke and tea smoke harmful? Elderly family members have started smoking herbal substances after hearing about their benefits from external sources. However, I believe that burning herbs still results in inhaling particulate matter and other substances, which could lea...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: The combustion of herbs can produce various fine particles, and the specific components of the herbs require specialized research to generate reports. As for the effects on the lungs, regular follow-up with X-rays and pulmonary function tests may provide objective evidence...[Read More] Are Herbal Cigarettes and Tea Smoking Harmful to Lung Health?
Post-Surgery Concerns for Stage I Lung Adenocarcinoma Patients
Postoperative issues in lung adenocarcinoma? Hello Dr. Huang, I would like to ask you a question. Last month in June, I was diagnosed with a 2.5 cm tumor in my right lung through an X-ray. I decided to have it surgically removed a week later. The doctor said it was stage I lung ...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Ms. Wang: After surgery for stage I lung adenocarcinoma, no further treatment is necessary; follow-up every 3 to 6 months is sufficient. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Post-Surgery Concerns for Stage I Lung Adenocarcinoma Patients
Persistent Breathing Difficulties: Seeking Answers After 18 Months
Shortness of breath lasting for one and a half years? Hello, Since I developed symptoms of shortness of breath after a fever last May, I have been experiencing a tight feeling in my neck and a sensation of exertion (even when relaxed). The tightest area extends from my neck up ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on the X-ray and CT scan, you likely do not have any pulmonary parenchymal disease. 2. Since you have not experienced improvement with the use of bronchodilators (asthma medication), it is unlikely that you have asthma; please do not dwell on this diagnosis. 3. Th...[Read More] Persistent Breathing Difficulties: Seeking Answers After 18 Months
Understanding Mild Pain Under the Right Armpit: Causes and Concerns
Mild pain in the right axilla? Doctor, I’m sorry to bother you. I started feeling a slight pain in my right armpit a few days ago, but the pain is very mild and only lasts for a few seconds. I don’t have any symptoms like coughing, coughing up blood, or joint pain. Could this be ...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: The likelihood of lung cancer is low; please visit the pulmonary medicine clinic for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Mild Pain Under the Right Armpit: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Pectus Excavatum: Breathing Issues and Exercise Impact
Pectus excavatum issue? Hello, doctor. Since I was young, I've felt that I get more easily out of breath than my classmates during exercise (like running), but it's not excessively so. My level of physical activity is quite average; I participate in physical education c...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: The absence of issues with cardiopulmonary function refers to a static state; however, exercise may have an impact, although it might not be significant. Aerobic exercise should be beneficial for cardiopulmonary function.[Read More] Understanding Pectus Excavatum: Breathing Issues and Exercise Impact
Understanding Phlegm Issues: Navigating Chest and Gastro Problems
Issues with phlegm? Hello, Dr. Yang. I have been experiencing chest tightness since last year and went to the hospital for a check-up. The doctor said I have pulmonary infiltration. After taking medication, I have had persistent phlegm in my throat. Later, the doctor diagnosed me...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: If there are no obvious stomach pains or symptoms of acid reflux, you may not need to see a gastroenterologist. If you experience the aforementioned symptoms, a gastroscopy is recommended. For post-nasal drip or allergic rhinitis, you can consult an otolaryngologist. If th...[Read More] Understanding Phlegm Issues: Navigating Chest and Gastro Problems
Understanding Chest Pain: Is It a Heart or Thoracic Issue?
Chest pain Hello, doctor. My mother has been experiencing pain in the center of her chest when pressed, and occasionally feels a sharp pain while moving. Could this be related to her heart or an issue in the thoracic cavity?
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: Generally, tenderness is related to chest wall or muscle issues, but it is still necessary to consult a pulmonologist for an examination, and then ask the pulmonologist if a referral to a cardiologist is needed.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Is It a Heart or Thoracic Issue?
Is Pneumonia Related to COVID-19? Understanding Lung and Urinary Infections
Is pneumonia related to COVID-19? On July 20, the rapid test was negative, and the chest X-ray showed mild inflammation in the lungs and mild inflammation in the urinary tract. Is there a connection between the lungs, urinary tract, and COVID-19? Is lung inflammation contagious? ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: The X-ray shows mild pneumonia, but it may not necessarily indicate true pneumonia. The chance of transmitting it to others is quite low. The urinary tract infection is likely unrelated to COVID-19. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist to manage gastroesophage...[Read More] Is Pneumonia Related to COVID-19? Understanding Lung and Urinary Infections
Understanding Breathing Issues: Stress or Underlying Conditions?
Respiratory issues I have experienced similar symptoms before, and at that time, it felt very much like autonomic nervous system dysregulation, so I consulted a psychosomatic specialist. After the visit, the symptoms subsided for a while, but they have returned in the past few da...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: It is still related to excessive stress and an imbalance in adjustment. It is recommended to consult a psychosomatic medicine specialist.[Read More] Understanding Breathing Issues: Stress or Underlying Conditions?
Persistent Chest Tightness After COVID-19: Causes and Next Steps
Persistent chest tightness and inability to take deep breaths after pneumonia discharge? Since developing chest tightness after contracting COVID-19 on May 23, the symptoms have persisted for two months even after discharge. During this period, follow-up visits included chest X-r...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: It appears that the lung tissue has not been significantly affected. It is recommended to engage in regular exercise and to use sleep medications to assist with sleep, ensuring at least seven hours of sleep each night. Limit the intake of cold foods and learn to relax (mos...[Read More] Persistent Chest Tightness After COVID-19: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Tuberculosis Treatment in Young Children: Risks and Concerns
Pediatric pulmonary tuberculosis infection Hello, Doctor! My father was diagnosed with open pulmonary tuberculosis in June of this year, and he has been cured for a month now. He has been taking his medication regularly and attending follow-up appointments. The doctor mentioned t...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
A child over 1 year old has a 2 cm positive tuberculin skin test, which is considered strongly positive, indicating a significant risk of developing tuberculosis. It is recommended that the child undergo 270 days of preventive treatment with isoniazid (INH). The likelihood of sid...[Read More] Understanding Tuberculosis Treatment in Young Children: Risks and Concerns
Persistent Nasal Congestion and Breathing Issues After Cold
Difficulty breathing and nasal congestion? Hello, doctor: I have had a cold for about three weeks with no improvement. In the first week, I experienced a sore throat and cough. In the second week, I had persistent nasal congestion throughout the day, phlegm in my throat, dry coug...
Dr. Wang Zhengde Reply:
Hello: During the pandemic, if you experience symptoms such as sore throat, cough, nasal congestion, and diarrhea, you should suspect the possibility of a COVID-19 infection. It is recommended to wear a mask and seek medical attention promptly, while providing your physician with...[Read More] Persistent Nasal Congestion and Breathing Issues After Cold
Understanding Soft Throat Sensation and Coughing During Inhalation
During inhalation, there is a soft and itchy sensation in the throat? Hello, I would like to ask about a sensation of a soft and itchy throat when I inhale, which then leads to coughing. What disease could this be? I do not have a runny nose, but I do experience mild nasal conges...
Dr. Wang Zhengde Reply:
Hello Woozi: Based on your age and symptoms, your condition appears to be more consistent with asthma, which is a chronic airway obstruction disease influenced by both genetic predisposition and environmental factors. However, an accurate diagnosis and management still require a ...[Read More] Understanding Soft Throat Sensation and Coughing During Inhalation
Understanding Brief Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Chest pain? Hello, I sometimes experience a brief pain on the inner side of my right chest that lasts for just 1 or 2 seconds. If I don't pay attention to it, it seems to go away and feels normal, but if I think about it, the pain returns intermittently. Sometimes there are ...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello, if the chest pain is intermittent and not persistent, there may not be too much to worry about. However, if it becomes persistent or worsens, it would be advisable to consider consulting a pulmonologist. Please follow the guidance of your treating physician for further det...[Read More] Understanding Brief Chest Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice