I have COPD and am scheduled for a chemical stress test. Is that the preferred test or is the treadmill test preferred? I am relatively fit, except for getting short of breath easily. I am on Metoprolol for an irregular heartbeat and high blood pressure, and I experience shortness of breath with minimal exercise. I am also on Stiolto once a day and Ventolin as needed. Additionally, I have been experiencing indigestion-like symptoms, including extremely painful stabbing pain in my sternum area front and back.

April 15th, 2023

My sister and her boyfriend have been sick for a week after returning from Mexico. They have a severe wet cough, difficulty coughing up mucus, fever with chills, extreme tiredness, and are sleeping a lot. What could be causing this and what can be done to help them?

October 10th, 2024

Are there other medications besides the inhalers Advair and Ventolin that are more effective for asthma, and should I consider switching if my symptoms haven’t progressively worsened over the past five years?

August 18th, 2023

I am concerned about the possibility of contracting shingles from my dad, who has been diagnosed with the condition. We share common household items like sandals and the toilet seat. I had a vaccine as a child. Am I still at risk, and is it safe to continue using these shared items?

July 7th, 2023

My 87-year-old mother, who has COPD and an enlarged heart, tested positive for Covid despite being immobile and only interacting with caregivers and immediate family. She is currently at Providence St Joseph Hospital in Los Angeles. What treatment options should be considered for her Covid, given her medical conditions?

August 16th, 2024