Understanding Persistent Lung Spots in Tuberculosis Treatment: What to Expect
A patient with pulmonary tuberculosis has been on medication for over two weeks, but there are still white spots in the lungs? Dear Doctor: My father has been hospitalized for tuberculosis and has been on medication for over two weeks. However, the X-ray still shows white spots. ...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello, generally after two weeks of tuberculosis medication, if the X-ray shows minimal lesions and they are almost completely resolved, please discuss further with your physician. If there is any deterioration, further intervention may be necessary. Typically, after two weeks of...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Lung Spots in Tuberculosis Treatment: What to Expect
How Long Will Side Effects of Tuberculosis Medications Last?
How long does it take for the side effects of tuberculosis medication to improve? The father has been on medication for tuberculosis for two weeks now, and this week he has started experiencing side effects such as vomiting, nausea, poor appetite, and blurred vision. Will these s...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello, if you experience the mentioned side effects, it is recommended to return for a follow-up appointment to inform your physician, to determine if medication adjustments or other examinations, such as liver and kidney function tests or vision assessments, are necessary. Thank...[Read More] How Long Will Side Effects of Tuberculosis Medications Last?
Understanding Abnormal Chest X-Ray Findings: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Abnormal chest X-ray? Hello, doctor. During this year's company health check, a chest X-ray revealed some infiltrative changes in the lower inner portion of my right lung (the X-ray appeared to show a patchy, white area). The examining physician mentioned that this does not ...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that you have another chest X-ray taken in the pulmonology department and then discuss it further with your attending physician. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Chest X-Ray Findings: When to Seek Further Evaluation
How Long Does It Take to Diagnose Tuberculosis in the Hospital?
How long does a patient with pulmonary tuberculosis need to be hospitalized for diagnosis? Hello Doctor: My father has been experiencing intermittent fever and coughing for two weeks. Initially, he just went to the clinic to get cold medicine, but later he developed a fever in th...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello, based on your description, diagnoses such as lung tumors, pneumonia, and tuberculosis cannot be immediately ruled out. The physician is currently conducting differential diagnoses, and since there is a clinical possibility of tuberculosis, hospitalization in an isolation r...[Read More] How Long Does It Take to Diagnose Tuberculosis in the Hospital?
Understanding Skin Test Reactions for Tuberculosis: What to Expect
Tuberculin skin test (TST) Hello, doctor. I had a skin test injection on Tuesday, and after 48 hours, the result was negative with only a slight erythema but no swelling. However, after the examination (which involved palpation) at 72 hours, it has become slightly red and swollen...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
1. Each individual's constitution is different, and the reaction time to a coin-sized stimulus can vary significantly. If the diameter of the reaction reaches approximately 10mm within 72 hours, this value should be used as a reference for assessment. 2. Theoretically, there...[Read More] Understanding Skin Test Reactions for Tuberculosis: What to Expect
Understanding Cough, Chest Tightness, and Anxiety: A Guide for Patients
Itchy throat, cough, and chest tightness? Hello Dr. Yang, I would like to ask you the following questions: 1. I have been experiencing intermittent dry cough at night for the past couple of days. When I take deep breaths or exhale forcefully, I feel a tightness in my chest and ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello, regarding your questions, here is a brief summary: 1. A scratchy throat and cough, especially when others do not have similar symptoms, is not considered normal. It is advisable to have a medical professional evaluate for any significant organ abnormalities. 2. A persisten...[Read More] Understanding Cough, Chest Tightness, and Anxiety: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Chest tightness? Hello, I experienced a feeling of tightness in my chest while sleeping at night, somewhat like a cramp, and also a sensation similar to the pressure of swallowing a stone. However, it was not very intense and disappeared shortly after. The location is approximate...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello Mr. K: Based on your symptom description, there is a preliminary suspicion of heart disease (angina) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) if you are experiencing symptoms such as acid reflux or upper abdominal pain. It is recommended that you visit a cardiology clinic ...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Right Hilar Enlargement: Causes and Concerns
Enlargement of the right pulmonary hilum? Doctor, my mother had a health check-up and the X-ray results showed an enlargement of the right hilum of the lung. After further examination at the hospital, the doctor determined that it could possibly be due to vascular enlargement or ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello Mr. Yeh, here is a brief response: 1. There is minimal exposure to lint in your work environment. 2. The hilum of the lung is composed of blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and bronchial structures. The chest X-ray only raises suspicion of enlargement, and further clinical e...[Read More] Understanding Right Hilar Enlargement: Causes and Concerns
Do We Need TB Testing After Exposure to a Confirmed Case?
Regarding tuberculosis (TB)? Dr. Yang: Hello, my grandmother was recently hospitalized at Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. A week ago, the hospital suspected she had a tuberculosis infection, which was later confirmed. She was placed in an isolation room during the suspicion ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Tuberculosis can be transmitted through airborne droplets, but prolonged exposure is typically required for infection to occur. Generally, about one-third of household contacts will become infected (90% of those infected will never develop the disease in their lifetime), w...[Read More] Do We Need TB Testing After Exposure to a Confirmed Case?
Understanding AB Bacterial Infections in Pneumonia Patients: Treatment Options
Pneumonia hospital-acquired infection caused by Acinetobacter bacteria? Dear Dr. Huang, My mother developed a fever on June 24 and visited a clinic for medication. After more than a week, her fever did not completely subside. On June 30, she went to the emergency department of a...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Mr. Wang, First, let us pray for your aunt. This particular bacteria is indeed challenging; we need to clarify whether it is a true infection or just local colonization. If it is a pneumonia-causing infection, the mortality rate can range from 30% to 75%. There are still me...[Read More] Understanding AB Bacterial Infections in Pneumonia Patients: Treatment Options
Understanding Right Rib Pain and Small Lumps: When to Seek Medical Help
Small lump above the right rib cage? Two days ago, I noticed a difference between the left and right ribs. There is a small lump on the upper part of the right rib cage that sometimes causes sudden pain, while at other times it does not hurt. When I press on the small lump on the...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello, 1. You may first consult a pulmonologist, who will perform a chest X-ray and a physical examination to determine if there are any small masses, and then decide which specialty to see next. 2. Alternatively, you can start with a family medicine physician, who will conduc...[Read More] Understanding Right Rib Pain and Small Lumps: When to Seek Medical Help
Is Lung Lavage Right for You? Understanding Benefits and Risks
Regarding pulmonary lavage? I had a smoking history of seven years, and although I have quit for several years now, I believe that the five years of smoking may have caused some pollution in my lungs. Additionally, living in a big city for many years, I have been exposed to the e...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Lung lavage is typically used for diagnosing difficult cases, and its therapeutic application is limited to very few diseases (such as proteinaceous lung disease). There is no theoretical basis or practicality for using it to wash out smoke or dust. You have been smoke-free for s...[Read More] Is Lung Lavage Right for You? Understanding Benefits and Risks
Transferring Lung Lymphoma Patient for Better Care: Is It Feasible?
I would like to transfer my care for lung lymphoma to your hospital? Hello Dr. Jian: My father, who is 81 years old, was diagnosed with pulmonary lymphoma in March. He is currently at Beigang Matsu Hospital and his condition is not good; he now requires a ventilator. The doctors ...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello, 1. The Chest Hospital is located in Tainan City and is an acute care facility; it does not have a palliative care unit, which may not meet your needs. 2. Whether a transfer to another hospital is appropriate requires a clinical assessment. Since I have not personally ex...[Read More] Transferring Lung Lymphoma Patient for Better Care: Is It Feasible?
Should Thoracic Surgery Be Consulted for Lung Nodules During Infection?
Is it possible to consult with a thoracic surgeon simultaneously? The mother was hospitalized due to a liver abscess, and during an abdominal CT scan, a 0.6 cm nodule was discovered in the lung. She currently has a 3 cm liver abscess and is being treated with oral antibiotics. Th...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello, there are many causes of pulmonary nodules. If there are previous imaging studies available, it would be easier to make a determination. If there are no prior images and immediate confirmation is needed, a surgical biopsy may be required. Based on what you described, you m...[Read More] Should Thoracic Surgery Be Consulted for Lung Nodules During Infection?
Seeking Transfer for Mom's Pneumonia and Heart Issues: Urgent Advice Needed
My mother has pneumonia and heart problems, and we hope to arrange a referral? Your mother was admitted to a regional hospital in Miaoli due to respiratory distress. The attending physician performed a chest X-ray and initially diagnosed pneumonia and cardiac issues, recommending...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello, regarding the issue you mentioned, the patient's respiratory condition is unstable. If a referral is desired, please discuss with the attending physician about suitable nearby hospitals and inquire about ensuring safety during the referral process. Thank you for your ...[Read More] Seeking Transfer for Mom's Pneumonia and Heart Issues: Urgent Advice Needed
Understanding Acinic Cell Carcinoma: Rare Lung Cancer Insights in Taiwan
Questions related to acinic cell carcinoma? Hello, my friend was recently diagnosed with acinic cell carcinoma located in the lungs. I couldn't find any related cases in Taiwan online, and since it's in the lungs, it's even rarer. I'm unsure if this is conside...
Dr. Huang Ruiming Reply:
Hello, Xiao Tang: Acinic cell carcinoma is extremely rare as a primary cancer in the lungs; most cases are metastatic from other sites, such as the salivary glands or parotid glands. Its treatment typically follows the standard cancer protocols, which include surgical resection, ...[Read More] Understanding Acinic Cell Carcinoma: Rare Lung Cancer Insights in Taiwan
Understanding Lung Nodules: What Elevated CA153 and CEA Levels Mean
Pulmonary nodules? Dear Dr. Huang, I would like to ask a few questions regarding my mother's condition. Here is the situation: My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer 15 years ago and underwent a right mastectomy. Since then, there has been no recurrence (the right axill...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear: Based on your description, it is most likely a recurrence and metastasis of breast cancer. Although CA 15-3 can be elevated in other cancers, it is more specific to breast cancer. Generally, the higher the tumor marker levels, the worse the prognosis. The purpose of monitor...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: What Elevated CA153 and CEA Levels Mean
Understanding Left Rib Discomfort: Gastrointestinal or Pulmonary Issues?
Left rib issues? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing a tightness, pressure, bloating, and discomfort in my lower rib area and extending to my waist almost every day. This started over a year ago after I developed irritable bowel syndrome. In July of this year, I went to a pulm...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello AVI: 1. If a pneumothorax was present on the initial X-ray, a follow-up X-ray is necessary to check for absorption and improvement. 2. Your symptoms may also be related to irritable bowel syndrome, which can be associated with stress or poor autonomic nervous system regulat...[Read More] Understanding Left Rib Discomfort: Gastrointestinal or Pulmonary Issues?
Understanding Chest Discomfort After Minor Impacts: Causes and Concerns
Often, even a slight impact to the chest can cause discomfort? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about my chest. When I play with friends, sometimes I might get lightly punched or poked in the chest, and afterward, I feel a sense of tightness and difficulty with breathing for a w...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello David: 1. Based on your height and weight, you appear to be a bit underweight, with a thinner layer of muscle, which may make you more sensitive to external physical stimuli. 2. Your chest X-ray is normal, so there should be no significant cardiopulmonary diseases. 3. Moder...[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort After Minor Impacts: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Chest Pain: Concerns About X-Ray Radiation and Symptoms
Please, doctor? I have been experiencing abdominal pain along with a pressure sensation, pain, and tightness in my lower back to rib area, as well as an indescribable feeling of discomfort. I have been unable to find the cause and have consulted gastroenterology, obstetrics and g...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Dear Ms. W, Here is a brief response: 1. Unnecessary checks should be minimized; it is best to consult different specialties within the same hospital to avoid situations where there are no X-rays available for reference. 2. The radiation dose from these X-rays is not excessive....[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Concerns About X-Ray Radiation and Symptoms