Understanding Frequent Nosebleeds in Children: Causes and Concerns
Nosebleeds in children? My 3-year-old child seems to have a nosebleed every month, and it always occurs from the left nostril. Sometimes I notice blood on his fingers, but I'm not sure if he is causing the nosebleed by picking his nose or if he is just touching the blood aft...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Hello, most cases of nosebleeds in children are caused by nasal allergies. It is recommended that you take your child to a local otolaryngology clinic for evaluation. Sincerely, Dr. Chien-Chih Chen, Physician at Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, and Lecturer ...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Nosebleeds in Children: Causes and Concerns
How to Distinguish Between Nasal Mucus and Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak?
How to determine if it is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea? Hello! A few days ago, I came across an article online that mentioned persistent nasal discharge could actually be cerebrospinal fluid leakage! After reading it carefully, I realized that I seem to have some of the s...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer, It can indeed be challenging to distinguish between nasal mucus and cerebrospinal fluid. However, a cerebrospinal fluid test conducted at a hospital can provide clarity. I recommend that you take antihistamines as prescribed for 1 to 2 weeks and monitor whether yo...[Read More] How to Distinguish Between Nasal Mucus and Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak?
Understanding Inner Ear Imbalance: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery Tips
Inner ear imbalance I have been experiencing dizziness every time I get up or lie down, sometimes accompanied by headaches. I consulted an ENT specialist who diagnosed it as a viral infection caused by a cold, leading to inner ear imbalance. Is this related? How long might this c...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Hello, your condition is quite common in clinical practice and is likely caused by inner ear imbalance. It should resolve on its own after about 1 to 2 weeks of medication, so please rest assured. Sincerely, Dr. Chien-Chih Chen, Physician at Taoyuan Hospital, Depar...[Read More] Understanding Inner Ear Imbalance: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery Tips
Should You Clean Your Ears Regularly? Expert Insights on Ear Wax
Should you clean your ears? Is it necessary to regularly clean my ears, even though I usually don't and sometimes earwax falls out on its own? I noticed that when someone else checked my ears, there seemed to be a lot of wax, some of which was hard and difficult to remove. W...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer, Both soft and hard earwax are expelled naturally through the metabolism of the skin in the ear canal. However, if there are abnormalities in the shape of the external auditory canal or if there is inflammation, earwax may not be easily expelled. The most common ca...[Read More] Should You Clean Your Ears Regularly? Expert Insights on Ear Wax
Understanding Ear Issues: Symptoms and Recovery After Loud Noises
Issues related to the ear? Hello, doctor. Yesterday after school, I was playing with a classmate who held a bowl of instant noodles with the opening facing my left ear and then hit the bottom of the bowl hard, making a loud noise. After that, my left ear felt strange; it feels a ...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Hello, you may be experiencing acoustic trauma, where loud sounds have damaged your eardrum or inner ear. Such injuries typically last for several days, although a minority of individuals may experience persistent symptoms. If possible, you may want to visit a hosp...[Read More] Understanding Ear Issues: Symptoms and Recovery After Loud Noises
Understanding Pulsatile Tinnitus: Causes and Solutions for One-Sided Ear Sounds
Hearing a rumbling sound in one ear? In recent years, I have experienced a rumbling sound in my left ear that occurs only when lying flat, and sometimes in a very quiet environment, if there is a sudden noise, the rumbling in my left ear synchronizes with the sound. If I plug my ...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Hello, have you undergone a hearing test? This is Dr. Chien-Chih Chen, a physician at Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, and a lecturer at Fu Jen Catholic University. Best regards.[Read More] Understanding Pulsatile Tinnitus: Causes and Solutions for One-Sided Ear Sounds
Impact of Salivary Gland Cyst Surgery on Aviation Medical Fitness
The impact of branchial cleft cysts on flying? Hello, Doctor. I underwent surgery for a salivary gland cyst in March 2009. Everything was normal post-surgery, and I have had no complications. I am currently interested in pursuing a career as a pilot and have already logged over 2...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer, Hello, this question has truly stumped me! According to the current literature, there has been no discussion regarding the impact of branchial cleft cyst surgery on hearing and balance, nor is it known whether it affects aviation medical examinations. Therefore, w...[Read More] Impact of Salivary Gland Cyst Surgery on Aviation Medical Fitness
Understanding Tinnitus: Insights from ENT Specialists in Taiwan
Reply to the doctor's question - Thank you for your assistance? Your question: Since elementary school, I have experienced a crackling sound in my left ear when exposed to loud noises (similar to the sound of a radio without a signal), but I didn't think much of it. Rec...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer, Tinnitus is indeed a challenging issue to address. Most patients worry about the possibility of an undetected serious underlying condition, and the diagnosis and treatment often test the physician's capabilities. Here, we must honestly and humbly inform you t...[Read More] Understanding Tinnitus: Insights from ENT Specialists in Taiwan
Understanding the Link Between Headaches and Nasal Issues
Headache and Nose Hello Dr. Chen, I have been experiencing headaches for nearly 20 years. I have seen a neurologist, but everything came back normal. I remember that my headaches started after a severe cold with a high fever during college, and they have persisted ever since (I e...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Hello, based on your literal question, it is not possible to determine the cause of your headache. May I ask what kind of examinations you have undergone? Have you consulted with any specialists? Have you been taking painkillers for a long time? Do you have any oth...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Headaches and Nasal Issues
Persistent Ear Noises: Seeking Help for Unresolved Tinnitus Issues
Hearing a crackling sound in the ear and not finding relief after seeing a doctor? Since elementary school, I have experienced a crackling sound in my left ear when exposed to loud noises, similar to the sound of a radio without a signal, but I didn't think much of it. Recen...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Hello, may I ask which ear you are experiencing tinnitus in? Have you undergone a hearing test? What was the diagnosis given by the treating physician? Sincerely, Dr. Chen Jian-Zhi, Physician at Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, and Lecturer at Fu Jen Catholi...[Read More] Persistent Ear Noises: Seeking Help for Unresolved Tinnitus Issues
Understanding Olfactory Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Olfactory issues Hello Dr. Chen, thank you for your response. I would like to ask again. I understand that my condition cannot be rushed and requires time for self-recovery, but the physician mentioned the "golden period" of six months. I am concerned that if symptoms p...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer, Regarding the issue of olfactory impairment, it primarily relies on self-recovery, as there are currently no active treatment methods available. I recommend seeking assistance from the Department of Otolaryngology at Taichung Veterans General Hospital, as this is ...[Read More] Understanding Olfactory Issues: When to Seek Medical Help
Can Nasal Polyps Be Malignant? Understanding ENT Concerns
Please provide the content you would like me to translate into English? Hello, doctor! Thank you for your response! My friend said that the doctor mentioned it looks like a benign nasal polyp. Is it possible for it to be malignant?
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: The distinction between malignant and benign conditions can only be accurately made under a microscope. Due to the distinctive appearance of nasal polyps, they can usually be diagnosed with a clear differentiation from malignant tumors. However, in rare cases, na...[Read More] Can Nasal Polyps Be Malignant? Understanding ENT Concerns
Swallowed Fish Bone: Should You See a Doctor?
Swallowing a fish bone? Hello Dr. Chen: Yesterday, I accidentally swallowed a fishbone while eating. If I don't feel any sharp sensation when swallowing, does that mean the fishbone has already gone down into my stomach? Or should I see a doctor for an examination? If the fi...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Hello, it is quite common to accidentally swallow fish bones. They will usually be digested in the stomach, unless they get lodged in the throat, causing discomfort, in which case external assistance may be needed to remove them. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Chien-Chih, Phy...[Read More] Swallowed Fish Bone: Should You See a Doctor?
Understanding Anosmia: Recovery After Head Trauma and Its Challenges
Unknown fragrance or odor? Hello Dr. Chen, thank you for taking the time to clarify my concerns. I suffered a skull base fracture from a car accident and had a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 7. It took almost 20 days for me to truly regain consciousness and recognize people. When I ...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer, Hello. The anosmia following a car accident is due to damage to the olfactory nerves, and recovery typically takes at least six months. Currently, there are no specific treatment options available. As for olfactory testing, only the ENT department at Taichung Vete...[Read More] Understanding Anosmia: Recovery After Head Trauma and Its Challenges
Understanding Nasal Polyps: Causes, Treatment, and Surgical Options
Nasal issues? My friend recently visited a doctor due to nasal congestion. The physician used a nasopharyngoscope (which allows for visual examination) and mentioned that there are polyps in the nasopharynx. The doctor said that if the condition does not improve after medication,...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Nasal polyps are likely to originate from the posterior nasal cavity or sinuses. The standard treatment for nasal polyps is surgical removal, especially after medical treatment has failed; however, surgery is not mandatory. Sincerely, Dr. Chien-Chih Chen, Phys...[Read More] Understanding Nasal Polyps: Causes, Treatment, and Surgical Options
How to Schedule Dizziness and Headache Tests with an ENT Specialist
Regarding dizziness and headache examinations? Hello Doctor, I visited you last Saturday, April 17th, and inquired about tests related to my dizziness. Regarding the tests, can I make an appointment over the phone? Or do I need to see you again to schedule the tests? If I can mak...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer, Hello, arranging examinations for dizziness is not easy. I wonder if your symptoms have improved. Our hospital has limited examination options available; the basic tests include electronystagmography (ENG), caloric testing, and vestibular evoked myogenic potential...[Read More] How to Schedule Dizziness and Headache Tests with an ENT Specialist
Understanding Tongue Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice for Lymphoma Patients
Tongue Hello, Doctor. I am a lymphoma patient (I have completed treatment and currently have follow-up appointments every two months). Recently, I noticed a small, slightly harder area on the front side of my tongue (it's not very hard and not painful, and there are no visib...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Hello, I suggest that if you have the time, you should consult an experienced otolaryngologist to determine whether further observation or an expedited biopsy is necessary to resolve your concerns. Alternatively, you can visit my clinic, which is open on Tuesday an...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice for Lymphoma Patients
Understanding Fever and Throat Inflammation: Dengue Fever Concerns
Feeling warm all over? Hello, today I feel a bit warm all over, and I thought it might be due to the weather. I also have a slight headache, which I attributed to not sleeping well yesterday. In the afternoon, I went to see an ENT specialist who told me that I have a fever and th...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Hello, your concern can be addressed by getting a white blood cell count and differential at the hospital, as bacterial infections typically result in elevated white blood cell and neutrophil counts. I am curious about your current symptoms. Sincerely, Dr. Chien-Ch...[Read More] Understanding Fever and Throat Inflammation: Dengue Fever Concerns
Understanding Jaw Pain and Discomfort: When to Seek ENT Care
Both sides of the chin? I have swelling and tenderness on both sides of my jaw, which then spreads to my earlobes, neck, and shoulders, causing soreness. My mouth feels slightly sore. Occasionally, I experience an inexplicable itching sensation from above my shoulders to both sid...
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer: Hello, please remind me that the symptoms have persisted for a month, and I have already asked about them on the Taiwan e-Hospital platform. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Jian-Zhi, Physician at Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, and Lecturer at Fu Jen Catholic Universit...[Read More] Understanding Jaw Pain and Discomfort: When to Seek ENT Care
How to Properly Use ENT Prescriptions: A Guide for Patients
Reply to the doctor? Dr. Chen, you forgot to tell me how to take the medication. Should I continue using the prescription from the neurologist in the morning and evening, and use the prescription you provided before bedtime?
Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Kris: Yes, this is how the medication is used. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Jian-Zhi, Physician at Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, and Lecturer at Fu Jen Catholic University.[Read More] How to Properly Use ENT Prescriptions: A Guide for Patients