Understanding Earwax Buildup: Causes, Treatment, and When to See a Doctor
Cleaning issues Hello, I would like to ask... I previously had my left ear cleaned once, and the doctor prescribed some ear drops, but I didn't use them. Now it seems to have accumulated a lot again. Why does this happen so easily? Is there such a condition? I don't dig...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: The accumulation of earwax may be due to simple earwax buildup, or it could be caused by factors such as fungal infections or chronic otitis externa. You are welcome to visit my clinic for examination and treatment (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays in the morning). I will ...[Read More] Understanding Earwax Buildup: Causes, Treatment, and When to See a Doctor
Understanding Thyroglossal Duct Cysts: Risks, Treatment, and Management
Thyroglossal duct cyst I am a 43-year-old man. Recently, during a lymph node examination, my doctor suspected the presence of a 5mm thyroid duct cyst. From my understanding of what the doctor said, these thyroid duct cysts typically should disappear after birth. The doctor mentio...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Dear Tim Tim: To my knowledge, there doesn't seem to be a condition known as "thyroid duct tumor." Could you please confirm the diagnosis once again? Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Hu Ke-Hsin, Attending Physician, Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyua...[Read More] Understanding Thyroglossal Duct Cysts: Risks, Treatment, and Management
Can You Get Pimples on Your Earlobe? Causes and Solutions
Ear problems Can earlobes get pimples? I felt something on my earlobe yesterday that seemed like a pimple but not quite. It hurt when I touched it. What could be the reason?
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Dear Lai: The earlobe has developed a pimple. It hurts when touched, which suggests inflammation, and it may even be infected. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Hu Kexin, Attending Physician, Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health an...[Read More] Can You Get Pimples on Your Earlobe? Causes and Solutions
Improving Breathing Issues in Elderly Patients with Tongue Obstruction
Tongue My grandmother's tongue tends to fall back into her throat when she sleeps or lies down, which makes her breathing sound somewhat labored. What are some ways to improve this situation? She is 71 years old and has been bedridden for a long time. She is fed through a na...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Typically, the older a person gets, the more likely they are to experience what you refer to as the "tongue falling back into the throat" issue. It is advisable to first observe whether they have any problems with sleep apnea.[Read More] Improving Breathing Issues in Elderly Patients with Tongue Obstruction
Persistent Hiccups: When to Seek Medical Advice for Relief
Persistent hiccups? I have been hiccuping constantly for a week now, which is quite strange. Especially after eating, I feel a bit of food almost coming back up, which is uncomfortable but not severe. I'm not sure which specialist to see, but since it has been a week and it ...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Dear Wenwen: I recommend that you get checked by both the gastroenterology and otolaryngology departments. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Hu Kexin, Attending Physician, Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Persistent Hiccups: When to Seek Medical Advice for Relief
Understanding ENT Issues: Managing Nasal Obsessions and Allergies
Inquiry Since the onset of my skin and gynecological issues, my overall health has undergone a significant transformation. I used to have a robust physique, but now I am plagued with various problems. At some point, I began to compulsively pick my nose, which often had crusted mu...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Dear Yu: You may have chronic rhinitis. It is recommended that you visit a clinic or hospital with an otolaryngologist for diagnosis and treatment. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Hu Ke-xin, Attending Physician, Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministr...[Read More] Understanding ENT Issues: Managing Nasal Obsessions and Allergies
Understanding Subcutaneous Cysts: Surgery, Risks, and Recovery Insights
Subcutaneous cyst Hello, I have some questions regarding subcutaneous cysts: 1. How long does the surgery for a subcutaneous cyst take, and is it considered a minor procedure? Can the patient go home immediately after the surgery? 2. What are the potential dangers or risks asso...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Dear Lai, Hello: 1. The duration of the surgery varies depending on the size and location of the tumor. In principle, patients can return home after the surgery, but this will still depend on the specific circumstances. 2. The level of risk or danger also needs to be assessed ...[Read More] Understanding Subcutaneous Cysts: Surgery, Risks, and Recovery Insights
Understanding Nasal Congestion: Surgery, Allergies, and Asthma Relief
Nasal congestion Hello, Doctor: I have a deviated septum, chronic hypertrophic rhinitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma. I usually experience nasal congestion, which worsens after sneezing in the morning (lasting all day). I need to elevate my head to sleep... I would like to ask:...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Dear Ms. Chen, Hello. In response to your questions, I would like to provide the following answers: 1. Septoplasty does not improve asthma symptoms. 2. Septoplasty is generally performed under local anesthesia; however, general anesthesia may be used in special circumstances. 3...[Read More] Understanding Nasal Congestion: Surgery, Allergies, and Asthma Relief
Managing Sinusitis: Tips for Prevention and Care While Studying Abroad
Sinusitis Hello Doctor, I am currently studying in Japan and would like to ask you about sinusitis. What kind of care or precautions should patients with sinusitis take to reduce the risk of recurrence? The air in Japan is very dry and cold; would wearing a mask be beneficial? Al...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Dear Negin: Patients with sinusitis should ideally avoid catching a cold or triggering allergies, and it is advisable to limit the intake of irritating and spicy foods. If the air is very dry and cold, wearing a mask may be beneficial. As for what medication to take for a cold, I...[Read More] Managing Sinusitis: Tips for Prevention and Care While Studying Abroad
Uncontrollable Nasal Discharge with Blood: Causes and Solutions
Nasal discharge that flows out on its own and contains blood? In the past couple of days, I have been experiencing uncontrollable nasal discharge that seems to flow out on its own. It also contains blood, but it feels different from a typical nosebleed; it appears to be more dilu...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if you have mucus flowing out on its own and it is mixed with blood, it is best to consult an otolaryngologist for a detailed examination to understand the source of the blood. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Hu Ke-Hsin, Attending Physician, Department of Oto...[Read More] Uncontrollable Nasal Discharge with Blood: Causes and Solutions
Voice Surgery: Options, Costs, and Risks for Voice Modification
Vocal cord surgery Hello Dr. Hu: I have a softer voice that resembles that of a girl, and I would like to inquire if there are surgical or other methods to change my voice. What are the costs involved? Are there any side effects? Could you recommend suitable hospitals and doctors...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Dear Yaken, Hello. The volume of sound is related to the amplitude of the sound waves. A voice that sounds more like a girl's typically has a higher frequency of sound waves. I recommend that you visit a nearby teaching hospital specializing in otolaryngology for an examin...[Read More] Voice Surgery: Options, Costs, and Risks for Voice Modification
Unusual Vitamin Taste in Breath: Possible ENT Issues Explained
Occasionally experiencing a vitamin-like taste while breathing? Hello, I occasionally notice a taste similar to B vitamins when I breathe, and this has been ongoing for several days. It also occurred a few months ago and lasted for several days to about a week before disappearing...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Dear Xiao Zhi, Hello. Your symptoms may be related to the vitamins or other supplements you are taking, so I recommend that you temporarily discontinue their use. If the symptoms persist, you should consult an otolaryngologist for a thorough examination. Sincerely, Dr. Hu Kex...[Read More] Unusual Vitamin Taste in Breath: Possible ENT Issues Explained
Understanding Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Ear Issues
Doctor, please help me? I have been experiencing tinnitus in my left ear for about 10 days. I have seen a doctor, and they diagnosed me with serous otitis media. However, there has been no improvement. Whenever I tilt my head to the left or lie on my left side while sleeping, I h...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Dear Ah Hong: Serous otitis media is often caused by a cold, including acute rhinitis and sinusitis. These conditions lead to dysfunction of the Eustachian tube, resulting in negative pressure in the middle ear and the formation of serous otitis media. Sincerely, Dr. Hu Ke-hsin, ...[Read More] Understanding Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Ear Issues
Laser Surgery for Nasal Polyps: Scheduling and Hospital Stay FAQs
Nasal Polyp Surgery Could you please let me know if your hospital offers laser surgery? I had to stay for five days with traditional surgery in another hospital. Can I schedule an appointment with the doctor over the phone? Also, on which days are surgeries available? Thank you.
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Dear Pecehood: Please first confirm the nasal condition. Generally, nasal polyps are not treated with laser surgery; laser surgery is primarily used for addressing issues related to the turbinates. You are welcome to call the ENT department at the Health Bureau for inquiries or v...[Read More] Laser Surgery for Nasal Polyps: Scheduling and Hospital Stay FAQs
Persistent Cough and Hoarseness: Seeking Relief and Solutions
Frequent coughing? Hello, Doctor: Initially, I noticed my voice was a bit hoarse, and then I started to cough. The hoarseness improved after two to three days. I haven't noticed any specific times when the cough is worse; I cough both during the day and at night while sleepi...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Your symptoms appear to indicate an upper respiratory tract infection. If the symptoms persist, it is advisable to seek treatment from a specialist to check for any complications. Best regards, Hook Sin.[Read More] Persistent Cough and Hoarseness: Seeking Relief and Solutions
Unusual Growths in the Throat: What You Need to Know
Strange growths in the throat? I have felt like there is something stuck in my throat since I was young. Based on my observations in the mirror, I noticed strange growths on both sides of my throat. They appear small on the surface, but when I gently push them aside with my finge...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Based on your description, the white object is likely secretions trapped in the tonsils. Please remember to rinse your mouth regularly and maintain oral hygiene, as this can reduce the chances of secretion or food debris accumulation. Hooke's law.[Read More] Unusual Growths in the Throat: What You Need to Know
Effective Solutions for Nasal and Throat Dryness at Night
Nasal dryness Hello Dr. Hu: After sleeping at night, my nasal passages and throat feel unusually dry and uncomfortable. I have to drink water and put a few drops of water into my nasal cavity to feel a bit better, but the discomfort returns after about 30 minutes, which severely ...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: For abnormal dryness in the nasal cavity, you can apply some ointment or petroleum jelly inside the nose. For throat dryness, it is advisable to drink a small cup of warm water before bedtime. If the symptoms persist, you should visit a hospital to identify the underlying ...[Read More] Effective Solutions for Nasal and Throat Dryness at Night
Should My Child Undergo Surgery for Nasal Injury and Ear Issue?
Do I need surgery? Hello, my child is about to turn 4 years old. A few days ago, on January 14th, he fell and hit his nose against a cabinet, resulting in a bruise on the bridge of his right nose. The doctor mentioned that there is a slight displacement of the bone. He said that ...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Since I have not observed your son's clinical presentation, I am afraid I cannot provide you with in-depth advice. I recommend discussing the issue of surgery with Dr. Hsu. (Dr. Hsu is a physician trained at a medical center and should possess excellent professional k...[Read More] Should My Child Undergo Surgery for Nasal Injury and Ear Issue?
Is Charcoal Dust in Your Nose Harmful? ENT Expert Insights
Charcoal I have a question! In the job of charcoal cutting, the charcoal dust gets into my nose. When I use a tissue to check, it's all black charcoal. Will this have an impact on me?
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello, long-term coal deposits in the nasal cavity can indeed have health effects. Hu Ke Xin.[Read More] Is Charcoal Dust in Your Nose Harmful? ENT Expert Insights
Understanding Throat Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Breathing Issues
There is a sensation of a foreign body when breathing forcefully through the throat? Hello Dr. Hu, I have some concerns regarding my health that I would like to consult with you. Over the past year, I occasionally feel a sensation of something stuck in my throat when I breathe fo...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: It is recommended that you undergo an endoscopy. It should be able to be performed on-site. Best regards, Hook Sin.[Read More] Understanding Throat Discomfort: Causes and Solutions for Breathing Issues