Dealing with Tongue Injuries and Ear Noise: When to Seek Medical Help

Accidentally biting the tongue while eating and related issues?

Hello Dr.
Hong, I accidentally bit my tongue while eating fish and there was some bleeding.
Now I have a small bump that looks like a blood blister.
Should I just leave it alone and let it resolve on its own, or is it better to pop it? Also, at the time, I wasn't sure if I swallowed a small fish bone.
I would like to ask if I need to see an ENT specialist if I don't feel particularly uncomfortable, or should I be cautious if any symptoms other than pain arise? I think I might have swallowed it along with my food.

Additionally, a little over a month ago, I had my hearing checked due to occasional tinnitus, and the results were normal.
However, if the dehumidifier is running upstairs, I can hear a low-frequency sound.
I have mentioned this, but the other party doesn't seem to listen and insists that my mom should buy one for them or continue using the current one.
My mom and I can both hear this low-frequency sound from the same area.
I would like to ask if listening to this type of sound for an extended period could cause any issues.
If so, I might need to warn my mom to be cautious, as I am currently attending classes remotely and only returning home occasionally.
However, my mom is at home more often, and I am a bit concerned about this low-frequency humming sound.
Thank you.

Yueyue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/01

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello,
1.
For a hole in the tongue, it is recommended not to burst the blister and let it heal on its own.
No special treatment is necessary.

2.
Prolonged exposure to the same sound can indeed lead to slight hearing damage; however, it depends on the volume and duration of exposure.
It is advisable to consider enhancing soundproofing.
If there are hearing issues, you should consult an otolaryngologist.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2020/06/01

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding tongue injuries and ear noise. Let's break down your concerns and provide some guidance.

Tongue Injury
When you accidentally bite your tongue, it's common to experience bleeding and swelling. The small blood blister-like bump you described is likely a hematoma, which is a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels. In most cases, these types of injuries heal on their own without the need for medical intervention. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Self-Care: It's generally advisable not to pop or intentionally break the blood blister, as this can lead to infection. Instead, allow it to heal naturally. You can rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.

2. Symptoms to Watch For: If you experience increased pain, swelling, or signs of infection (such as pus or fever), it would be wise to seek medical attention. Additionally, if you suspect that you may have swallowed a fishbone and are experiencing discomfort, difficulty swallowing, or persistent pain, you should consult a healthcare professional.

3. When to Seek Help: If the pain becomes severe or if you have difficulty swallowing or breathing, you should seek medical help immediately.

Ear Noise and Low-Frequency Sounds
Regarding the low-frequency noise you mentioned, it's important to understand how sound can affect our health:
1. Understanding Low-Frequency Noise: Low-frequency sounds, such as those produced by dehumidifiers or other appliances, can sometimes be bothersome. While they may not cause immediate harm, prolonged exposure to annoying sounds can lead to stress and discomfort.
2. Potential Health Impacts: Chronic exposure to irritating sounds can lead to sleep disturbances, increased stress levels, and even hearing issues over time. If you and your mother are both experiencing discomfort from the noise, it may be worth discussing with the neighbors to find a solution, such as relocating the appliance or using soundproofing measures.

3. Monitoring Symptoms: If you notice any changes in your hearing, such as increased ear ringing (tinnitus) or a decrease in hearing ability, it would be prudent to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a thorough evaluation to determine if there are any underlying issues.

Conclusion
In summary, for your tongue injury, monitor the healing process and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. For the low-frequency noise, while it may not pose an immediate health risk, it’s essential to address the discomfort it causes. If you or your mother experience any changes in hearing or increased discomfort, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.
Taking care of your health is paramount, and being proactive about any concerning symptoms is always a good approach. Thank you for your questions, and I hope this information helps you!

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