Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Seek ENT Evaluation and Testing
I have a lump in my neck? I previously visited National Taiwan University Hospital, but these past few days, I've been experiencing discomfort in my neck, with a feeling of pressure while sleeping. My energy levels are also low (not sure if there's a connection). Additi...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck accompanied by pain are most commonly caused by upper respiratory tract infections, and they typically improve with time and recovery from the cold. However, if the neck lump persists and increases in size, it is important to pay special at...[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Seek ENT Evaluation and Testing
Understanding Dry Mouth and Throat Issues: Common Causes and Solutions
Dry mouth and dry tongue? Hello Dr. Tsai, I have some throat issues I would like to consult you about. My profession involves being an outside salesperson, and I have to talk a lot every day while meeting clients. After speaking for a while, my throat becomes uncomfortable, and...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! 1. Generally speaking, patients who overuse their voices may experience inflammation of the vocal cords and even develop lesions such as polyps. It is recommended to take adequate vocal rest for improvement. 2. Regarding snoring, it is often caused by narrowing of the orop...[Read More] Understanding Dry Mouth and Throat Issues: Common Causes and Solutions
Understanding Throat Issues: Foreign Objects and Thyroid Concerns
Throat issues..? Hello Dr. Tsai, I have two questions I would like to ask you: Two days ago, while eating noodles, I accidentally swallowed a piece of duck bone. However, I finished the entire bowl of noodles. Since then, my throat feels like there is something stuck in it (the ...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! 1. Sometimes, mucosal injury can cause discomfort in the throat, which may last for about a week. However, if symptoms such as persistent throat pain and difficulty swallowing continue, it is advisable to undergo an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), which requires general ...[Read More] Understanding Throat Issues: Foreign Objects and Thyroid Concerns
Understanding Congenital Neck Cysts: Symptoms, Treatment, and Expert Advice
Cervical cyst Dear Dr. Tsai, A friend's child, aged 5, was diagnosed with a congenital neck cyst and underwent surgery at Chang Gung Hospital on October 8 of last year. However, after six months, the wound continues to produce pus. The doctor has indicated that another surg...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! Congenital neck cysts may have small areas that are difficult to clean. The only solution is indeed to perform another surgery. As for the surgeon, any physician from a medical center will be able to perform the procedure. A CT scan may be required before the surgery. Than...[Read More] Understanding Congenital Neck Cysts: Symptoms, Treatment, and Expert Advice
Sore Throat When Swallowing: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Experiencing throat pain when swallowing saliva? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing pain in my throat when swallowing saliva or food. Although it's not severe, this sensation has never occurred before, and it has been happening for about two weeks now. Initial...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello, generally speaking, based on your symptoms, the likelihood of an upper respiratory tract infection is the highest. Additionally, please pay attention to whether you experience difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, blood-streaked sputum, or weight loss. If these symptoms are a...[Read More] Sore Throat When Swallowing: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Persistent Throat Mucus: Is Secondhand Smoke the Cause?
My throat feels strange? Hello: For more than a year, I have felt like there is phlegm stuck in my throat, but I can't cough it out or swallow it down; it just feels like there is always phlegm in my throat. Is this related to exposure to secondhand smoke?
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello, it is best to go to the hospital for an examination in such cases, as many diseases can present with similar symptoms.[Read More] Persistent Throat Mucus: Is Secondhand Smoke the Cause?
Understanding Common Cold in Infants: Symptoms and Care Tips
Pediatric Cold Hello Dr. Tsai, My baby is 9 months old and has recently been experiencing frequent clear nasal discharge, persistent coughing, and a sensation of phlegm in the throat, although the fever has subsided. We took him to see a doctor and received medication for rhinit...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! 1. Generally, the symptoms of a cold usually last about one week to ten days; however, appropriate rest and a balanced diet are necessary to prevent the duration of the cold from being prolonged. 2. You can purchase a nasal aspirator to help clear nasal mucus; if that is i...[Read More] Understanding Common Cold in Infants: Symptoms and Care Tips
Effectiveness of Israeli Nasal Light Therapy Devices for Allergic Rhinitis
Israeli nasal phototherapy devices available on the market? I have had nasal allergies since childhood and have been seeing doctors at large hospitals. Recently, I noticed that an Israeli nasal light therapy device has appeared on the market, and its price is not too high. I wond...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello, nasal allergies are a lifelong issue. Some individuals may experience a gradual reduction in symptoms as they age, while others require long-term medication management. The Israeli nasal phototherapy device available on the market is classified by the Department of Health ...[Read More] Effectiveness of Israeli Nasal Light Therapy Devices for Allergic Rhinitis
Understanding Nasal Irrigation: Common Concerns and Best Practices
Questions about nasal irrigation? 1. Is it normal to feel a tight sensation in the forehead (between the eyebrows) after nasal irrigation? 2. Is it necessary to use a nasal irrigation device for nasal rinsing?
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! 1. If there is some fluid accumulation in the frontal sinus after nasal irrigation, you may experience a tight sensation. Generally, the sinuses have a natural drainage function, so unless you feel particularly uncomfortable, you can disregard it. If this issue persists, p...[Read More] Understanding Nasal Irrigation: Common Concerns and Best Practices
Understanding Blood in Nasal Mucus: Causes and Concerns
Nasal discharge with blood? Hello Doctor: I am 23 years old. When I woke up yesterday, I had some nasal congestion and a little runny nose. Then, when I blew my nose, I expelled a large amount of clear mucus mixed with quite a bit of dark red blood. Afterward, I wiped the inside ...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! Generally, nosebleeds are common, but a small percentage still need to rule out the possibility of nasal tumors. It's better to return to the hospital for a follow-up. Thank you for your question![Read More] Understanding Blood in Nasal Mucus: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Allergy Desensitization Therapy for Children: Benefits and Considerations
What is desensitization therapy? Hello Dr. Tsai: My child has just turned 4 years old and has been experiencing frequent colds over the past year (with symptoms primarily including thick nasal discharge and nasal congestion). We have conducted allergy tests, and the doctor diagno...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! 1. (1) Treatment: After confirming the allergy through allergy testing, the initial phase involves weekly injections, with each dose increasing by 25% to 100%, based on the principle that the swelling at the injection site should be less than 5 cm. Generally, the maximum...[Read More] Understanding Allergy Desensitization Therapy for Children: Benefits and Considerations
Persistent Bad Taste on Tongue: Causes and Solutions
If you have a persistent bad taste in your mouth, what should you do? I have been experiencing a persistent bad taste in my mouth, and despite seeing many doctors, there hasn't been much improvement. Initially, I thought it was due to excessive tongue coating, but I brush my...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! An unusual odor in your breath is often caused by chronic sinusitis, which typically accompanies the production of thick yellow nasal discharge or crusting. If there is post-nasal drip, the foul-smelling mucus may flow into the oropharynx, leading to bad breath. Additional...[Read More] Persistent Bad Taste on Tongue: Causes and Solutions
Do You Need Surgery for Nasal Turbinate Hypertrophy and Deviated Septum?
Do turbinate hypertrophy and deviated septum require surgery? I have been experiencing a persistent cough for about three months. After visiting an otolaryngology clinic, the doctor diagnosed me with turbinate hypertrophy and a deviated septum, and suggested surgical treatment. I...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello, 1. If the medication treatment is ineffective, surgical intervention is necessary to address the discomfort. The potential complications include risks associated with anesthesia and bleeding. Process: 1. If using laser treatment, local anesthesia can be applied, which...[Read More] Do You Need Surgery for Nasal Turbinate Hypertrophy and Deviated Septum?
Understanding Unilateral Tonsil Enlargement: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Unilateral tonsillar enlargement? About two weeks ago, I noticed something resembling a small lump on the right side of my throat (which actually seems quite large in proportion to my throat). Last week, I visited the ENT department at Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, and the doctor said ...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! You can consult an experienced otolaryngologist. They may perform a physical examination, and if there is a mass, surgery might be necessary to rule out the possibility of a tumor. Many patients experience similar situations, so there's no need to be overly anxious.[Read More] Understanding Unilateral Tonsil Enlargement: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Conflicting Diagnoses: How to Choose the Right ENT Specialist?
There are many versions of diagnoses from different physicians. Who should I trust? Hello Dr. Tsai, About a year ago, I accompanied a friend to the hospital and seemed to have inhaled something that left a scratchy feeling in my throat. I wasn't very sure about it. After r...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello, 1. It is difficult to provide treatment without seeing the patient. 2. If the hospital clarifies that surgery is an option for treatment, it indicates that there are specific indications for it. 3. Symptoms persisting for more than three months suggest a chronic condit...[Read More] Conflicting Diagnoses: How to Choose the Right ENT Specialist?
Effectiveness of Israeli Light Therapy Device for Nasal Allergies
Treatment for nasal allergies There is a medical device available that is an imported light wave nasal treatment device from Israel, which claims to treat nasal mucosal swelling and alleviate symptoms such as allergies, sneezing, and nasal congestion. Is it effective?
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello, currently there is no relevant evidence indicating effectiveness. Not all medical practices in the world have scientific evidence. This department cannot endorse the product. If you wish to use it, the manufacturer must provide methods for managing complications.[Read More] Effectiveness of Israeli Light Therapy Device for Nasal Allergies
Understanding Persistent Throat Pain: When to Seek ENT and Mental Health Help
Difficulties in initiating conversation? Hello doctor, I engaged in oral sex with a sex worker at the end of August 2004 without protection, which led to persistent pain in my oral cavity, throat, and tongue. Subsequently, I visited an otolaryngology clinic where the physician pe...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello, after a detailed medical history inquiry and physical examination, regarding the possible diagnoses of viral pharyngitis and bacterial pharyngitis, as well as chronic pharyngitis, anti-inflammatory medications and antibiotics were administered. With unsatisfactory results ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Throat Pain: When to Seek ENT and Mental Health Help
Understanding Tonsil Hypertrophy: Symptoms, Tests, and Treatment Options
Tonsillar hypertrophy Hello Dr. Tsai, My son is 16 years old, 170 cm tall, and weighs 88 kg. After a school health check-up, they mentioned that he has tonsillar hypertrophy. What kind of examinations should I take him for, and what should I pay attention to? We live on Section...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! 1. You should visit an otolaryngology clinic. 2. Most cases do not require treatment; however, if the size is significant enough to cause snoring, surgical removal may be necessary.[Read More] Understanding Tonsil Hypertrophy: Symptoms, Tests, and Treatment Options
How to Handle Pain and Infection After Getting an Ear Piercing
Ear piercing Hello, doctor: I would like to ask about my situation. A few days ago, I got my ear pierced, but I may not have taken care of it properly, and now my ear is very painful. The needle is stuck in the flesh, and my cheek also hurts. There is a pus formation. What should...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! I recommend that you consult with an otolaryngologist. Thank you![Read More] How to Handle Pain and Infection After Getting an Ear Piercing
Tight Tongue Tie in Infants: Treatment Options and Anesthesia Concerns
Tightness at the base of the tongue? Dear Dr. Tsai, I have a little one who is just over three months old and I have noticed that the base of their tongue is too tight. Would a surgical procedure to release the tongue tie require general anesthesia? Additionally, I would like to...
Dr. Cai Hongyan reply Otolaryngology
Hello! 1. It's not necessary to use scissors; please have a physician evaluate first. 2. Local anesthesia allows you to go home in just five minutes.[Read More] Tight Tongue Tie in Infants: Treatment Options and Anesthesia Concerns