Understanding Sudden Chest Tightness: Causes and Concerns
Sudden onset chest tightness? Hello Doctor: My mother is 45 years old and has no history of heart disease. Yesterday, she suddenly experienced chest tightness with a feeling of pressure, as if her chest was tightly bound, which lasted all day. Today, along with the chest tightnes...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Although there are many causes of chest tightness, if it persists for a long time, it is important to investigate the possible reasons. It is recommended to first see a cardiologist to rule out heart disease, and then consult a pulmonologist. Best wishes![Read More] Understanding Sudden Chest Tightness: Causes and Concerns
Surgical Treatment Options for Stage IV Lung Adenocarcinoma: Risks and Benefits
Surgical treatment for stage IV lung adenocarcinoma? Director Huang, I would like to seek your expertise regarding my mother, who is 68 years old. In January 2017, a CT scan revealed a 2 cm tumor in the lower right lung. Follow-up biopsies and Tc-99m MDP scans confirmed stage IV ...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
DEAR AKIRA: Stage IV lung cancer is generally inoperable; however, if there is downstaging after targeted therapy, surgery is certainly recommended as it tends to have a higher survival rate. If surgery is not an option, there are many medications available for lung adenocarcinom...[Read More] Surgical Treatment Options for Stage IV Lung Adenocarcinoma: Risks and Benefits
Understanding Lung Atrophy: Managing Cough and Mucus in Seniors
Mother has pulmonary atrophy, cough, and sputum production? Hello Dr. Yang, my mother has not been feeling well lately. She mentioned that she has lung atrophy, and recently her phlegm has increased, along with a persistent cough. She has been taking medication for about six mont...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Your mother's lungs may have developed pulmonary fibrosis or localized atrophy due to a previous lung infection. The structure and function of the affected area are compromised, making it prone to cough or bacterial infections due to difficulty in clearing mucus. It i...[Read More] Understanding Lung Atrophy: Managing Cough and Mucus in Seniors
Understanding Changes in Ground-Glass Nodules: What You Need to Know
Nodule enlargement? Dr. Yang, I would like to ask about the CT scans. Today, I compared a CT scan from two years ago with one from a month ago. The doctor mentioned that I have two larger ground-glass nodules from last month; one of them has not changed much since two years ago, ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Basically, not having an increase in size for two years is good news. As long as you do not smoke, it is recommended to have a chest X-ray every six months for monitoring. Whether it is scar tissue is subjective, and without a biopsy report, it cannot be confirmed. Follow-...[Read More] Understanding Changes in Ground-Glass Nodules: What You Need to Know
Understanding Coughing and Lung Health: Should You Worry About Lung Cancer?
Risk of lung cancer? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing occasional coughing for almost a month now, along with some phlegm. Sometimes I hear sounds from my airways and feel like there is phlegm inside. When I manage to cough up some phlegm, the airway sounds go away. I don&#x...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Most lung cancers do not grow rapidly in a short period of time. Since a CT scan last July did not reveal any suspicious tumor lesions, it would be advisable to get a chest X-ray for the physician to interpret. Your symptoms are more indicative of allergic rhinitis and bro...[Read More] Understanding Coughing and Lung Health: Should You Worry About Lung Cancer?
Understanding Sudden Chest Pain: Is It Intercostal Neuralgia?
Transient tightness and pain in the upper left chest? Hello Dr. Yang, I apologize for the interruption, but I would like to ask you about a sudden, brief tightening pain in my left chest. The pain is localized to a specific point between the sternum and the left nipple, in the u...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, which come on quickly and resolve just as quickly, it seems more like neuralgia or muscle strain pain. However, I still recommend getting a chest X-ray to rule out any significant lung pathology for peace of mind. Best wishes![Read More] Understanding Sudden Chest Pain: Is It Intercostal Neuralgia?
Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Pain in the center of the chest? Hello, Dr. Jian. I have been smoking for 18 years (currently trying to quit) and I have a regular exercise routine. However, due to heavy work stress over the past six months, I often have to stay up late from Monday to Friday, and I only get to r...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: Based on the description, it seems more like myofascial pain, but it is still recommended to consult a pulmonologist to check for any associated issues.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Understanding Upper Left Back Pain: Gastrointestinal or Musculoskeletal Issues?
Left upper back pain? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask some questions. I have had gastrointestinal issues for a long time, experiencing gastroenteritis at least a dozen times since childhood. Last April, I felt unwell, and the examination revealed that my dizziness was caused by...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to have a chest X-ray and then consult a pulmonologist for further advice.[Read More] Understanding Upper Left Back Pain: Gastrointestinal or Musculoskeletal Issues?
Understanding Recurrent Chest Tightness: Possible Pneumothorax Symptoms
Periodic chest cramps sensation, pneumothorax? Symptoms: Discomfort and a feeling of tightness and cramping in the left chest, nausea (feeling like I will vomit if I take another breath, but also feeling a strong urge to breathe), numbness in the left jaw, and severe dizziness th...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
You can first visit a cardiologist or a pulmonologist for an examination (it is recommended to see a specialist in the respective field).[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Chest Tightness: Possible Pneumothorax Symptoms
Understanding Lung Nodules: Risks, Asbestos Exposure, and Treatment Options
CT lung nodule issues Hello Doctor: Recently, my health check report showed six small nodules measuring 3.0 to 5.5 mm. Three years ago, I had a CT scan that showed no abnormalities, and I consulted with Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, where they mentioned that some of these might b...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: The original attending physician explained things quite clearly and suggested that you continue follow-up with the original physician's outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Risks, Asbestos Exposure, and Treatment Options
Which Specialist to Consult for Lung Nodules: A Guide
Which specialty should I see for a nodule? Hello doctor, I have a lung nodule and I'm wondering which department I should see. I initially went to thoracic surgery, and the nurse mentioned that I should have seen internal medicine first. However, the doctor still allowed me ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: In principle, lung nodules can be evaluated by either a pulmonologist or a thoracic surgeon, as the assessment principles and content are quite similar. If surgery is needed, it is also advisable to seek a second opinion from another pulmonologist or thoracic surgeon. Best...[Read More] Which Specialist to Consult for Lung Nodules: A Guide
Understanding Calcifications in the Right Lung: What You Need to Know
Calcification nodules in the right lung detected during health check-up? Hello Doctor: About two months ago, I underwent a comprehensive health check-up, and the chest X-ray revealed a few small white spots in my right lung. The physician mentioned that these are likely calcifica...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Please bring all relevant information, including the CT scan and chest X-ray, to consult with a pulmonologist.[Read More] Understanding Calcifications in the Right Lung: What You Need to Know
Understanding Bronchial Provocation Testing: What You Need to Know
Pulmonary function challenge test issues? Hello, I would like to ask a question. I have never had asthma issues since childhood, but in the past few months, I have started experiencing shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing whenever I walk quickly. Sometimes, I even f...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
1. Provocation tests are used to assess airway sensitivity, similar to asthma testing. 2. There may be asthma present, with normal lung function during routine assessments, but symptoms indicate poor control; please continue treatment in the pulmonary clinic.[Read More] Understanding Bronchial Provocation Testing: What You Need to Know
Understanding Chest Pain: When to See a Doctor for Symptoms
Chest issues Hello: I experience sharp or stabbing pain in my left chest every day, and I also feel discomfort in my left armpit. There is a painful spot in the upper right area of my left chest that hurts when pressed. Sometimes, I also experience sudden dizziness. I'm not ...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Please first consult a pulmonologist for diagnosis and then inquire whether a referral to another specialty is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: When to See a Doctor for Symptoms
Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Chest tightness? Hello Dr. Jian, I forgot to mention that I am experiencing numbness and weakness in my left hand. Thank you.
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Please first consult a pulmonologist for diagnosis and then inquire whether a referral to another specialty is necessary.[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Is Further Testing Necessary After a Normal Chest X-Ray at 20?
Chest X-ray Hello, since I am 20 years old and my X-ray results are normal with no other symptoms, is there a need for further examination?
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: If you have persistent symptoms, it is necessary to see a physician for evaluation. For older individuals with a long history of smoking or a family history of cancer, even if the X-ray results are normal, it may be advisable to consider self-paying for a low-dose computed...[Read More] Is Further Testing Necessary After a Normal Chest X-Ray at 20?
Persistent Cough and Rib Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Coughing for a month, currently experiencing a dry cough and unbearable rib pain? Hello, doctor. I currently live abroad, and it's inconvenient for me to see a doctor. Last month, I had a persistent cough for about a month and relied on over-the-counter medications. During t...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: You should get a chest X-ray to clarify the cause of your chest pain. If you have phlegm that is difficult to cough up, you still need to visit a hospital or clinic. In case of emergency medical care abroad, you can report it to the National Health Insurance Administration...[Read More] Persistent Cough and Rib Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Traveling in China: Cough and Phlegm Concerns During Business Trip
Currently on a business trip in China, worried about developing pneumonia? Hello Dr. Jian, I am currently on a business trip in China. Three days ago, I started experiencing symptoms of a cold and cough. I have brought along fever-reducing medication and symptomatic treatment, ...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: If you have obvious symptoms such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, and sore throat, it resembles a cold. However, if there are no significant cold symptoms and the fever persists for more than three days, it may indicate pneumonia or influenza. You can visit a nearby hos...[Read More] Traveling in China: Cough and Phlegm Concerns During Business Trip
Understanding Shortness of Breath: Insights for Asthma and Exercise
Shortness of breath? Hello, doctor. I have a history of asthma and I smoke, which often triggers my asthma attacks, but I can't seem to quit smoking. I have never exercised before, but recently I thought I would try jogging to see if it could improve my lung function and ast...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Please visit a pulmonologist for an evaluation to determine if it is uncontrolled asthma or another issue. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Shortness of Breath: Insights for Asthma and Exercise
Understanding Emphysema: Diagnosis Discrepancies and Lifestyle Impact
Emphysema Hello, doctor. I have a history of asthma and I smoke. Recently, after exercising, I experienced shortness of breath for a few days. I went to Hospital A's emergency department, where an X-ray showed normal results. The next day, I visited Hospital B for an outpati...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: For individuals who smoke long-term, or those with a tall and slender physique, or during an asthma attack, bronchoconstriction can prevent the complete exhalation of air, leading to hyperinflation (appearing darker on a chest X-ray). The physician indicated that normal fi...[Read More] Understanding Emphysema: Diagnosis Discrepancies and Lifestyle Impact