Category Archives: Thoracic Surgery

Main Symptoms of Lymphangioleiomyomatosis

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare lung disease that almost only affects women. Smooth-muscle cells grow in the lung walls and lymph channels, slowly blocking airflow and fluid drainage. Shortness of breath is the star. You puff climbing one flight of stairs or can’t finish a sentence while walking. Chest pain or tightness shows up. It feels like a band around the ribs and gets worse with deep breaths. Cough is dry and persistent. It doesn’t bring up mucus and is worse at night or with activity. Pneumothorax pops up early. A sudden sharp pain and breathlessness mean a lung has... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Pectus Carinatum

Pectus carinatum is a chest-wall defect where the breastbone juts forward, creating a “keel” or “pigeon chest.” Most cases are spotted in early teens and worsen during growth spurts. Chest bump is the headline. The middle of the ribcage sticks out, especially when you stand up straight or take a deep breath. Tenderness occurs. The raised bone and nearby cartilage feel sore after sports or when pressed. Posture slumps. Kids roll their shoulders forward to hide the bump, which can lead to back pain over time. Shortness of breath shows up with activity. You puff faster than friends or feel... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Chest Injury

Chest injuries range from bruised ribs to punctured lungs. Whether it’s a fall, a car crash, or a sports hit, the chest lets you know right away that something is wrong. Sharp pain with breathing is the hallmark. It stabs when you inhale, cough, laugh, or roll over in bed. Tenderness to touch follows. Pressing on the ribs or sternum hurts, and the spot may feel crunchy if bones are broken. Swelling and bruising show up fast. The chest wall puffs and turns purple within hours. Shortness of breath creeps in. You take shallow breaths to avoid pain, or you... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Esophageal Stricture

Esophageal stricture means the food pipe has narrowed, so swallowing becomes a one-way street that’s slowly closing. Food sticking is the hallmark. Bread, meat, or even pills feel like they park halfway down and need a sip to keep moving. Slow swallow follows. Meals take longer because you have to chew extra or wash each bite with water. Pain or burning can hit when food scrapes the narrow spot, especially with hot or spicy dishes. Pocket clearing becomes routine. You cough or throat-clear after eating to push crumbs off the shelf. Weight loss creeps in. You eat less to avoid... Learn more

Main Symptoms of Thymoma

A thymoma is a tumor that starts in the thymus, a small gland behind the breastbone. It grows slowly, so symptoms can be vague until it presses on nearby structures or triggers immune problems. Chest pressure is the first clue. You feel a tight, heavy weight behind the breastbone, especially when lying flat. Cough that won’t quit shows up next. It’s dry and hacking, caused by the tumor pressing on the windpipe. Shortness of breath creeps in. You puff on stairs or can’t finish a sentence without pausing. Fatigue is common. Muscles feel heavy, and you need naps even after... Learn more