Ear and Oral Lesions After Long Phone Calls: When to Seek Help - Otolaryngology

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After the phone call, there are "bumps" appearing on the ear?


Hello, doctor :) I worked part-time the day before yesterday, and my job involved making phone calls for about three hours.
After that, my ear felt a bit sore, but I didn't pay much attention to it.
However, today when I touched my ear, I noticed a bump near the ear canal.
Could this be a pimple or something else? Do I need to see a doctor? Additionally, I have a pointed bump under my tongue with a white tip, but it doesn't hurt.
What could this be? PS: I am wearing a retainer.
Thank you!

Xiao M, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/05/06

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology


Hi Xiao M: 1.
It could be an outer ear canal inflammation or folliculitis.
You can observe it for now, but if the pain persists, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation.
2.
It may be inflammation or stones in the small salivary glands at the floor of the mouth.
Rinsing your mouth after meals can help.
If the white spots gradually disappear, there should be no major issues, but if they continue to grow, it is better to consult a physician for confirmation.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the ENT Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2013/05/06

More Info


Hello! It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms after a long period of phone calls, and it's important to address these issues properly. Let's break down your symptoms and discuss when it might be necessary to seek medical help.

Firstly, you mentioned experiencing ear pain after approximately three hours of phone calls. This discomfort could be attributed to several factors, including prolonged pressure on the ear from holding the phone, or even a potential ear infection or inflammation. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you experience additional symptoms such as hearing loss, fluid drainage, or fever, it would be advisable to consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a thorough examination to determine if there is an underlying issue, such as otitis media (middle ear infection) or external otitis (swimmer's ear).

Regarding the bump you felt at the ear canal entrance, it could be a few different things. It might be a pimple, a cyst, or even a benign growth like a sebaceous cyst. If the bump is painful, growing, or showing signs of infection (redness, warmth, or pus), you should definitely seek medical attention. An ENT specialist can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment options.

Now, concerning the lesion you noticed under your tongue, which is pointed and has a white tip but is not painful, it could be a few possibilities as well. One common cause of such lesions is a mucous cyst, also known as a ranula, which can occur due to blocked salivary glands. Another possibility is a fibroma, which is a benign growth. While these types of lesions are often harmless, it's essential to monitor them. If the lesion changes in size, color, or becomes painful, or if you experience difficulty swallowing or speaking, you should consult a healthcare professional. A dentist or an oral surgeon can evaluate the lesion and determine if any treatment is necessary.

Additionally, since you mentioned wearing braces or retainers, it's worth noting that orthodontic appliances can sometimes cause irritation or changes in the oral mucosa. If you suspect that your dental appliance is contributing to the discomfort or lesions, it may be beneficial to discuss this with your orthodontist.

In summary, while some of your symptoms may not seem alarming at first, it's crucial to listen to your body. If you notice any changes in your symptoms, or if the pain or lesions persist, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Early intervention can often prevent more significant issues down the line. Always prioritize your health, and don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance.

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