Air Travel and Boat Safety After Pneumothorax Drainage: What You Need to Know
Pneumothorax wounds and issues related to air travel and maritime travel? Hello doctor, I had a drainage procedure for a left-sided pneumothorax in early April this year. Is it normal for the wound to feel tight occasionally, about once a day? However, it has been infrequent. Las...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: Traveling by boat is acceptable, but flying is not recommended. Generally speaking, if a patient has undergone surgery to remove unhealthy alveoli, the chance of pneumothorax recurrence decreases from over 50% to 5-10%, and there are no specific restrictions on flying.[Read More] Air Travel and Boat Safety After Pneumothorax Drainage: What You Need to Know
Can You Fly After Recovering from Pneumothorax Drainage?
Can a patient fly after recovering from a pneumothorax drainage? Hello, Doctor! My husband experienced chest pain on March 8 and was diagnosed with a pneumothorax. Due to the large size of the pneumothorax, the doctor recommended immediate chest tube insertion for drainage and pu...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: Not recommended.[Read More] Can You Fly After Recovering from Pneumothorax Drainage?
Understanding Recurrence of Spontaneous Pneumothorax: When to Seek Help
Spontaneous pneumothorax recurrence About 4.5 years ago, I was diagnosed with a spontaneous pneumothorax and underwent pleurodesis. After that, I had a normal recovery period without any issues until two days ago when I suddenly felt a sharp pain in the right side of my chest whi...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: It's reassuring to have an X-ray examination; thank you. Hospitalization is not necessarily required.[Read More] Understanding Recurrence of Spontaneous Pneumothorax: When to Seek Help
Managing Recurrent Spontaneous Pneumothorax After Bilateral Pleurodesis
The issue of recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax after bilateral pleural adhesion treatment? Fifteen years ago, I underwent bilateral pleurodesis due to spontaneous pneumothorax, and recently, it has recurred with an estimated air leak of about 30% on both sides, primarily concent...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: Regarding the expertise of a thoracic surgeon, I do not have experience in the surgical aspects, and it is best to consult your original surgeon for specific situations. As for the issue of flying with a pneumothorax, it is not advisable to fly if a pneumothorax is present...[Read More] Managing Recurrent Spontaneous Pneumothorax After Bilateral Pleurodesis
Understanding Right-Sided Chest Pain After COVID-19: Causes and Next Steps
Right-sided chest pain? After being infected with COVID-19, I have been experiencing pain on the right side of my chest (approximately from the lower edge of the breast to the outer area of the breast) for over three weeks. I have difficulty taking deep breaths, and I feel sharp ...
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Hello: The likelihood of neuropathic pain may be higher, and since the examination showed no issues, it should not be an organic problem.[Read More] Understanding Right-Sided Chest Pain After COVID-19: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Lung Markings: When to See a Pulmonologist
Lung issues? Hello, doctor. I went to the emergency room on February 20th and had an X-ray. The results showed findings of exaggerated lung markings with reticulonodular density. No pleural effusion or pneumothorax was noted. The heart size and configuration were normal. There is...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to follow up with a pulmonologist. Based solely on the report, it is difficult to provide an accurate answer to your questions. Wishing you good health and peace of mind.[Read More] Understanding Lung Markings: When to See a Pulmonologist
Understanding Chest Pain and Cough: Seeking Effective Treatment Options
Chest pain/chest tightness/shortness of breath & cough/medication consultation Hello, Doctor. Since around the middle of last year, I have been experiencing severe coughing at night/midnight, which I initially thought was due to an unresolved cold (I returned from Europe at t...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear K: I apologize for the delayed response due to the holiday. Based on your symptom description, it is likely that you have atypical asthma. However, the treatment approach needs to be adjusted. You can start with inhaled corticosteroids for control, or you may visit the outpa...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain and Cough: Seeking Effective Treatment Options
Understanding Spontaneous vs. Traumatic Pneumothorax: Key Differences Explained
The definitions of spontaneous pneumothorax and traumatic pneumothorax are as follows: Spontaneous pneumothorax refers to the accumulation of air in the pleural space without any obvious external cause, often occurring in otherwise healthy individuals, typically due to the ruptu...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello, based on your description, in the case of the first pneumothorax, if there was no external object piercing the alveoli, the cause of the pneumothorax would likely be due to pre-existing unhealthy alveoli. A sudden impact could cause uneven stress on the surface of the alve...[Read More] Understanding Spontaneous vs. Traumatic Pneumothorax: Key Differences Explained
Understanding Diaphragm Pain: Is It Related to Pneumothorax?
Pain in the diaphragm area when lying down? Hello, I have a history of pneumothorax (surgically treated in 2005). In recent years, I occasionally experience back pain (no more than twice a year), but it resolves with rest and avoidance of strenuous activities. However, last Satur...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello, please follow up with a chest X-ray in the pulmonary medicine department, as there is a possibility of pneumothorax recurrence.[Read More] Understanding Diaphragm Pain: Is It Related to Pneumothorax?
Understanding Emphysema and Pleural Thickening After Pneumothorax
Pulmonary emphysema with mild thickening of the apical pleura? Hello doctor, about three years ago I had a spontaneous pneumothorax. Later, the doctor performed a CT scan and mentioned that there was a bleb in the left lower lung, but I wasn't advised to return for a follow-...
Dr. Cai Zongwei Reply:
Hello: Pneumothorax has various causes, some of which are directly or indirectly related to blebs or emphysema (which may increase the risk, and it is advisable to avoid participating in certain high-risk activities). Pleural thickening is mostly a sequela of past lung diseases a...[Read More] Understanding Emphysema and Pleural Thickening After Pneumothorax
Post-Thoracoscopy Recovery: Exercise Guidelines and Precautions
Post-pneumothorax surgery I just had a thoracoscopy and pleural adhesion procedure at the end of September, and I've seen information suggesting that I should engage in active exercise to promote good lung expansion. Is this information correct? Also, is it true that lifting...
Dr. Guo Hongyi Reply:
Hello: Dear public, moderate exercise can enhance cardiovascular and pulmonary function, which is beneficial. Lifting heavy objects can increase intrathoracic pressure, thereby raising the likelihood of pneumothorax, which is reasonable. Intense exercise can indeed lead to a recu...[Read More] Post-Thoracoscopy Recovery: Exercise Guidelines and Precautions
Understanding Pneumothorax Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
Symptoms of pneumothorax? Previously, it was confirmed as a pneumothorax, and since there was improvement in the two X-rays, I was advised to rest at home. I would like to ask if dizziness and headaches are related symptoms? If they occur, is there a need for immediate medical at...
Dr. Guo Hongyi Reply:
Hello: If a pneumothorax leads to a decrease in blood oxygen saturation, it can cause dizziness; however, dizziness does not necessarily indicate a pneumothorax. If you are experiencing discomfort, please seek medical attention for evaluation and consultation with a physician.[Read More] Understanding Pneumothorax Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention
Concerns About Pneumothorax or Chest Injury After Trauma?
Is there a concern for pneumothorax or chest contusion? Four days ago, I experienced a blunt force impact to the lower left rib cage, similar to the sensation of chest compressions during CPR. At that moment, I felt air being forcibly expelled from my chest cavity, followed by a ...
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Hello: You should see a pulmonologist to determine if it is a pneumothorax or just a contusion.[Read More] Concerns About Pneumothorax or Chest Injury After Trauma?
Understanding Follow-Up Care for Pneumothorax: X-Ray Importance and Recovery
Follow-up for pneumothorax? Hello, I would like to ask: Previously, I had a pneumothorax and had a drainage tube placed to remove the air. When I was discharged, the doctor mentioned that I should have an X-ray during my next follow-up visit to check the situation. However, due t...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello, regarding the question you raised, I cannot accurately determine why your attending physician did not follow up with an X-ray during your return visit, as I am not aware of their primary considerations. If I were your attending physician, it might be because you no longer ...[Read More] Understanding Follow-Up Care for Pneumothorax: X-Ray Importance and Recovery
Understanding Chest Discomfort: Is It Lung or Heart Related?
There is a feeling of tightness in the center of the chest? Hello, doctor. For the past two or three days, I've been feeling a bit of tightness in my chest, specifically around the center of my chest and near the xiphoid process. I haven't experienced any shortness of b...
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Hello: There may be a higher chance of mitral valve prolapse, so please follow up with a cardiologist.[Read More] Understanding Chest Discomfort: Is It Lung or Heart Related?
Understanding Chest Pain After a Car Accident: Causes and Next Steps
Hello, Director Huang. I have been experiencing pain after a recent car accident? On January 28, I went to the emergency room after a car accident. Besides external bruises, I experienced left-sided chest pain rated around 2 to 4 out of 10. The pain felt like it was on the surfac...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen: Based on your description, in addition to the impact, it is likely related to your history of pneumothorax and severe scoliosis (which may be causing respiratory limitations and pain). If there is no improvement, I recommend scheduling a CT scan to rule out other c...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain After a Car Accident: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding PET and CT Reports for Lung Cancer Management
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computed Tomography (CT) Report Here is the translation of the provided medical content: The following is the chest computed tomography report from September: **Computed Tomography of Chest With and Without Enhancement Shows:** **Techniqu...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Koko: 1. According to the attached report, there is no deterioration, and we cannot determine the drug resistance issue based on the absence of deterioration; continuous observation is necessary. 2. The current report is indeed accurate. 3. An MRI of the brain is more pr...[Read More] Understanding PET and CT Reports for Lung Cancer Management
Safe Upper Body Workouts for Post-Pneumothorax Patients
Hello, Vice Dean Wang. I have a history of pneumothorax, and I would like to ask if there are any fitness activities that might trigger a recurrence or if there are any contraindications I should be aware of? I am personally quite thin, measuring 166 cm and weighing 53 kg. I also...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: After pneumothorax surgery, there is no significant evidence that general exercise will cause a recurrence of pneumothorax, except for activities that are intense, involve physical impact, require breath-holding, or occur in environments with significant changes in air pre...[Read More] Safe Upper Body Workouts for Post-Pneumothorax Patients
Understanding Your Chest CT Report: Key Insights for Lung Cancer Patients
Chest Computed Tomography Report Hello Doctor, I am a stage 3B lung adenocarcinoma patient currently undergoing treatment with targeted therapy using anlotinib. Below are the findings from my three-month follow-up chest CT report, which was ordered by the thoracic surgeon to asse...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: The report appears to show no deterioration. As for further treatment plans, it is advisable to refer to the explanation provided by the original attending physician, as I am unable to offer any recommendations.[Read More] Understanding Your Chest CT Report: Key Insights for Lung Cancer Patients
Post-Surgery Muscle Concerns: Recovery After Thoracic Surgery
Surgical wound issues Hello, doctor. Two months ago, I underwent minimally invasive surgery for a pneumothorax, with the surgical site on my right lung. Since I have been working out, my latissimus dorsi is quite developed. Since the surgery, the right side of my latissimus dorsi...
Dr. Wang Lanfeng Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, surgery for pneumothorax does not involve the removal of nearby muscles. It may be due to the fact that you might have paused your workouts post-surgery, but you should gradually recover in the future. Thank you.[Read More] Post-Surgery Muscle Concerns: Recovery After Thoracic Surgery