Understanding Cough, Chest Pain, and Lung Nodules: Key Concerns
Recent concerns about cough, chest pain, and pulmonary nodules? Due to a family history of lung cancer (grandmother) and experiencing some respiratory symptoms earlier this year, I paid out of pocket for a low-dose CT scan, which revealed a 0.45 cm lung nodule. At that time, the ...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
1. If the nodule is malignant, it may increase in size after six months. If it does increase, a biopsy may need to be considered. If you are still concerned about the 0.45 cm nodule, you can discuss with a thoracic surgeon the possibility of an earlier biopsy. 2. Coughing is usua...[Read More] Understanding Cough, Chest Pain, and Lung Nodules: Key Concerns
Post-Cold Coughing: Is It a Sign of Chronic Bronchitis?
Post-cold bronchial irritation? Hello Doctor, two months ago I delayed seeking medical attention due to a cold. Initially, I had tonsillitis, which later spread to my trachea. I experienced a persistent cough for about a week that kept me awake at night. Now, two months after rec...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Individuals who do not smoke are less likely to develop chronic bronchitis, so there is no need to worry excessively at this time. Your airways may be more sensitive currently. It is recommended that you consider visiting a traditional Chinese medicine clinic to adjust you...[Read More] Post-Cold Coughing: Is It a Sign of Chronic Bronchitis?
Post-Cold Cough: Understanding Symptoms and Recovery Time
Coughing after a cold? Hello doctor, I previously had acute bronchitis and have seen several doctors and had an X-ray, which showed no pneumonia. It has been a month since the onset of my symptoms, and I still occasionally cough. My throat sometimes feels itchy, and the phlegm is...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Patient: Coughing after a cold is typically a response to irritation of the tracheal mucosa. Generally, this cough should resolve within 1-2 weeks with adequate rest. However, if your immune system is compromised or if you have pre-existing airway hypersensitivity, it may pe...[Read More] Post-Cold Cough: Understanding Symptoms and Recovery Time
Understanding Persistent Throat and Chest Discomfort: Is It a Foreign Body?
Throat tightness, chest tightness, and tension in the back of the neck and occipital region? I would like to ask the doctor, if there is indeed a foreign object in the trachea or vocal cords, even something as small as an insect or food residue, will it definitely trigger a stron...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: The presence of a foreign body in the trachea typically causes coughing and inflammation. It is unclear whether this is related to the current symptoms. It is recommended to perform a chest X-ray, as determining whether a foreign body has entered and remained in the trache...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Throat and Chest Discomfort: Is It a Foreign Body?
Understanding Coughing Up Blood: Causes and Next Steps for Patients
Coughing and sneezing with the presence of blood-tinged sputum, blood streaks, or blood spots? The patient has a long-term history of post-nasal drip and gastroesophageal reflux, has been taking cholesterol-lowering medication for an extended period, exercises infrequently, and h...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Based on the above, it seems that the microvasculature of the nasal cavity, throat, or trachea is relatively fragile and can easily rupture and bleed due to increased pressure (such as from coughing, sneezing, or lifting heavy objects). The bleeding is usually minimal and ...[Read More] Understanding Coughing Up Blood: Causes and Next Steps for Patients
Effective Ways to Care for Your Airways and Prevent Asthma
How to care for the airways in asthma? Hello, doctor: Could you please tell me if vitamin C, vitamin D, or essential oils are beneficial for maintaining bronchial health? What should I do on a regular basis to prevent asthma? Thank you.
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Miss Chen: There is no specific medical evidence supporting the use of the trachea in your manner. Asthma is assessed by severity, and it is important to consider whether to use it. Changhua Hospital is concerned about your well-being.[Read More] Effective Ways to Care for Your Airways and Prevent Asthma
Accidentally Choked: What to Do If You Inhale a Capsule
Accidentally choked? Hello Doctor: Around 5 PM, I took a lutein capsule with water, but I accidentally swallowed it too quickly (I wasn't talking or joking at the time) and slightly choked, causing a bit of water to go up my nose. However, I'm not sure if I swallowed th...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Typically, when a foreign object is aspirated into the trachea, there should be a forceful cough at the moment, followed by a persistent cough (which is an attempt to expel the foreign object from the airway). If there is a continuous cough or if it is accompanied by a fev...[Read More] Accidentally Choked: What to Do If You Inhale a Capsule
Could Swelling and Hoarseness Indicate Mediastinitis or Tumors?
Edema and hoarseness—could these symptoms be indicative of mediastinitis? Hello Dr. Yang, I have recently been experiencing some health issues and would like to ask if these symptoms are related to mediastinitis or a mediastinal tumor. Over the past month, I have noticed severe ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Mediastinitis is usually associated with severe chest pain and is extremely rare in clinical practice. It is recommended that you see a thoracic specialist for relevant examinations arranged by a physician![Read More] Could Swelling and Hoarseness Indicate Mediastinitis or Tumors?
Assessing Infection Risks in ICU Visits: A Case of Tuberculosis Exposure
Infection risk Hello, Dr. Yang. My father initially received intubation treatment in the emergency department and was later transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU). On the third day in the ICU, he was diagnosed with tuberculosis. During our visit on the first day in the ICU,...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Your father's intubation has a fixed outlet for ventilation, and tuberculosis bacteria will only be expelled through the tracheal outlet during suctioning. Additionally, the contact time was only 90 minutes (according to the Centers for Disease Control's definiti...[Read More] Assessing Infection Risks in ICU Visits: A Case of Tuberculosis Exposure
Can GERD Cause Phlegm After Coughing? Understanding Your Symptoms
Doctor, please help me! (2) Thank you very much, doctor, for carefully and patiently addressing my concerns and alleviating my anxiety. However, I would like to ask you again. If what you mentioned is indeed irritation of the throat caused by gastroesophageal reflux leading to se...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Ting-er: Coughing caused by gastroesophageal reflux is due to local irritation, and mucus is a secretion from the tracheal mucosa. When there is excessive stimulation, it can lead to the production of mucus. If there is a bacterial or viral infection, the color of the mucus ...[Read More] Can GERD Cause Phlegm After Coughing? Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Chest Pain: Insights on Respiratory and Cardiac Issues
Respiratory issues I have been experiencing pain in my trachea and left chest area for almost a week now. I can't pinpoint a specific pain location, and I can only exhale slowly and gently. I feel my heart rate increasing and it's somewhat uncomfortable (my mother has c...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: The X-ray showed no abnormalities, and the doctor has examined you and stated that there are no heart or lung issues. Therefore, your chest pain is more likely related to muscle or nerve pain, possibly due to prolonged sitting, poor posture, or a stressful and busy lifesty...[Read More] Understanding Chest Pain: Insights on Respiratory and Cardiac Issues
Post-Surgery Breathing Issues: Understanding Your Symptoms
Respiratory issues Hello Doctor: I recently underwent surgery for varicocele and was discharged with prescriptions for pain relief medication and a gastric stabilizer. After following the doctor's instructions for two days, I gradually began to feel a sensation of air in my ...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello: You may first consult a physician in the pulmonology department for evaluation.[Read More] Post-Surgery Breathing Issues: Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Tightness in the Chest: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
The trachea feels tight, but there is no sensation of shortness of breath? Hello doctor, I haven't worked outside for seven years due to a serious illness; I underwent a liver transplant. I started working on March 15, and on the 19th, I suddenly felt tightness between my co...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Hui-Wen: The trachea is located in the middle of the clavicle. Since the examination has already revealed insufficient lung capacity that can be improved with bronchodilators, it is recommended to use a long-acting bronchodilator for maintenance. It is more reasonable to add...[Read More] Understanding Tightness in the Chest: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Persistent Cough: Understanding Chronic Bronchitis and Its Treatment
Persistent cough? Hello Dr. Huang! I would like to consult you regarding my persistent cough. Since March 2016, after being infected with a cold from a family member, I have been experiencing a continuous cough for over a month now. I have visited five different clinics without i...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Mr. Lin: There are many causes of cough. Usually, a persistent cough is unlikely to be just a simple cold. The most common causes include chronic bronchitis, asthma, post-nasal drip, gastroesophageal reflux, pneumonia, pulmonary tuberculosis, and lung tumors. However, consid...[Read More] Persistent Cough: Understanding Chronic Bronchitis and Its Treatment
Understanding Coughing: When to Seek Medical Advice for Respiratory Issues
Questions related to cough? Hello, Dr. Wu. I would like to ask about a recent issue I've been experiencing. For about a week now, it feels like there is water in my trachea, and I occasionally feel the urge to cough when I take a deep breath. I might be more concerned about ...
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Hello, it may be related to phlegm, and the urge to cough when inhaling is a respiratory allergic reaction. If symptoms persist, a chest X-ray should be performed first. Wishing you good health, Dr. Wu Ying-Hsun.[Read More] Understanding Coughing: When to Seek Medical Advice for Respiratory Issues
Managing ICU Recovery: Addressing Agitation After Intubation for Flu
Post-extubation agitation following emergency intubation for influenza? Hello Dr. Yang, My sister has been intubated at Chang Gung Hospital for 15 days due to influenza. Today is March 25th. The attending physician mentioned that they could help her with respiratory exercises, a...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: It is quite uncomfortable for a conscious person to have an endotracheal tube in their airway, which may lead to restlessness. A mild sedative or psychological encouragement may be necessary. Chang Gung Memorial Hospital is an excellent medical center, and specialized phys...[Read More] Managing ICU Recovery: Addressing Agitation After Intubation for Flu
Understanding SPO2 Levels: Impact of Oxygen Desaturation on Health
SPO2 blood oxygen saturation level Hello, Consultant Huang: My mother (93 years old) accidentally removed her endotracheal tube, and her SPO2 dropped to 66%. I would like to ask: 1. How long does it typically take for SPO2 to drop from 98% to 66%? 2. Does this have any impact on ...
Dr. Huang Ruiming Reply:
If a ventilator is suddenly removed, oxygen saturation can drop to 66% in a very short time. The duration of hypoxia will affect the function of various organs in the body, especially the brain. If the duration is too long, it may even result in a vegetative state. Thank you for ...[Read More] Understanding SPO2 Levels: Impact of Oxygen Desaturation on Health
How to Alleviate Throat Discomfort from Inhaled Exhaust Fumes
Inhalation of exhaust fumes? Hello: This morning while riding my motorcycle, I was behind a large truck that started emitting a significant amount of exhaust fumes. By the time I got to the office, I began to feel discomfort in my throat. What methods can I use to alleviate this ...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: Exhaust fumes can irritate the throat and trachea, leading to inflammation. It is recommended to wear a mask, avoid smoking, secondhand smoke, and air pollution. Drink plenty of water and limit the intake of fried, spicy, and sour foods. Best regards.[Read More] How to Alleviate Throat Discomfort from Inhaled Exhaust Fumes
Understanding Chronic Cough with Blood: Causes and Next Steps
Coughing with discomfort in the trachea and blood-tinged sputum? Hello, Doctor. Ever since I recovered from a prolonged cough four years ago, I now experience discomfort in my trachea and sometimes notice blood in my cough whenever I catch a cold and cough. (Four years ago, my co...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: You may want to visit an otolaryngologist to check for any nasopharyngeal and sinus issues. Additionally, it is recommended to see a pulmonologist for a repeat chest X-ray. Please consult with the pulmonologist to determine if a chest CT scan, bronchoscopy, or other examin...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Cough with Blood: Causes and Next Steps
Three-Week Cough: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns About Lung Cancer
Coughing for approximately three weeks? Hello Doctor, (1) I have been coughing for over three weeks, with symptoms of dryness and itchiness in the throat and trachea that fluctuate; sometimes it itches a lot, and other times it's manageable. (2) I do not cough while sleep...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello: There are many causes of cough, and early-stage lung cancer often presents with non-specific symptoms. Please consult a physician for a diagnosis.[Read More] Three-Week Cough: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns About Lung Cancer