Understanding Red Bumps on Your Tongue: Causes and Treatments
Tongue I apologize for the inconvenience, but I just noticed that I have developed small red bumps on my tongue, resembling a rash. They are mostly scattered on the tip and the sides of my tongue. Could you please tell me what this might be?
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, the bumps on your tongue that resemble a rash could be due to mild inflammation or other lesions. It is recommended that you consult an otolaryngologist for a thorough examination to establish a diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Red Bumps on Your Tongue: Causes and Treatments
Can I Request a Tonsillectomy for Chronic Tonsil Stones?
Can I proactively request a tonsillectomy from my doctor? Hello, Director Hu: I live in Keelung, and I would like to ask about my condition. I have frequently experienced tonsil stones since junior high school, which are very foul-smelling and uncomfortable. I have difficulty swa...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question. Hello: Sure, I would be happy to perform an examination first and then determine the best course of treatment.[Read More] Can I Request a Tonsillectomy for Chronic Tonsil Stones?
Is It Normal to Experience Tinnitus After Tympanocentesis?
Is it normal to continue experiencing tinnitus after a tympanocentesis? I would like to ask the doctor about my tinnitus, which has lasted for over a week. When I visited the hospital yesterday, the doctor diagnosed me with otitis media with effusion and performed a myringotomy t...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If there is improvement during the puncture but the tinnitus gradually returns, it is advisable to have another examination. The puncture site is very small and can heal quickly. Of course, there are many causes of tinnitus, and we cannot completely rule out reasons other ...[Read More] Is It Normal to Experience Tinnitus After Tympanocentesis?
Understanding Ear Issues: Chronic Throat Inflammation and TMJ Symptoms
Ear problems Hello Doctor: I currently have chronic pharyngitis, which has been gradually improving since February. Additionally, I have mild temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), which is not very painful, but I can feel a clicking sound in my ears when I open my mouth. Around...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Your symptoms could indeed be caused by issues related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). However, there are many potential causes for ear fullness and pain, so I recommend that you undergo a thorough examination to determine if there are other underlying reasons.[Read More] Understanding Ear Issues: Chronic Throat Inflammation and TMJ Symptoms
Understanding Frequent Nosebleeds in Children: When to Worry
Nosebleeds in children Hello doctor, my child frequently has nosebleeds even with slight bumps. We have consulted with family medicine and ENT specialists (during a cold) who said there is no issue. I would like to ask, is this okay? Thank you.
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, there are many causes of nosebleeds. In children, the most common cause is bleeding from the anterior part of the nasal septum, which may occur due to trauma from rubbing or picking the nose. This type of bleeding can be prevented by avoiding ...[Read More] Understanding Frequent Nosebleeds in Children: When to Worry
Understanding Intermittent Ear Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Ear problems Hello, I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pain in both of my ears recently. What could be the possible causes? Is it something I can ignore? Thank you.
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: The most common cause of ear pain is inflammation, but it can also be caused by other factors. It is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist for a thorough examination and treatment, and not to ignore the symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Intermittent Ear Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Sleep Apnea: Post-Surgery Concerns and Long-Term Management
Sleep Apnea Hello Doctor: I underwent an examination at a sleep center and was diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea. After being referred to an otolaryngologist, I was confirmed to have tonsillar hypertrophy and a deviated septum as the causes. Two weeks ago, I had both ...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: I recommend that you ask your attending physician who performed the surgery about this issue, as the surgical circumstances can vary from person to person, and they would have a better understanding of your condition. Dr. Hu Ke-hsin, Department of Otolaryngology, Keelung H...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Apnea: Post-Surgery Concerns and Long-Term Management
Understanding Sinus Gasification: Causes of Bad Breath and Nasal Pain
Sinus aeration I have bad breath, and after a CT scan, the doctor said I have (right sinus aeration). What does this mean? Also, my nose hurts when I inhale; what could be the cause of this?
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: There are many reasons that can cause foul-smelling breath, and sinusitis is one of the common causes. If you experience pain while inhaling through your nose, you should consult a physician for a thorough examination. Be careful not to blow your nose too forcefully or pic...[Read More] Understanding Sinus Gasification: Causes of Bad Breath and Nasal Pain
Persistent Nosebleeds: Understanding Causes and Treatment Options
Nasal mucosa is fragile, resulting in recurrent nosebleeds? Hello Doctor: I started experiencing nosebleeds (on the right side) over a month ago, and after examination, a wound was found. I have been quite worried since it keeps bleeding. Blood tests, X-rays, and nasal endoscopy ...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If the bleeding is caused by a wound in the nasal septum, it usually requires only cauterization treatment with medication. It is important to allow the nasal mucosa to heal properly to prevent frequent bleeding. I also recommend treating allergic rhinitis simultaneously t...[Read More] Persistent Nosebleeds: Understanding Causes and Treatment Options
Managing Allergies in Teens: Tips from an ENT Specialist
Hello, Dr. Hu! Dr. Hu: My brother (14 years old) has a history of nasal allergies, and his symptoms have started to flare up as summer transitions into fall. It seems quite severe; he can't stand the itching in his nose and is sneezing uncontrollably (with a runny nose), goi...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Dr. Hu usually sees patients in the morning and often in the afternoon, but it typically does not go beyond 5 PM. You can try to make an appointment and then call the clinic on the same day to ask the nurse what time would be best to come in.[Read More] Managing Allergies in Teens: Tips from an ENT Specialist
Managing Ear Drum Bleeding: Tips for Safe Air Travel
Tympanic membrane hemorrhage? Hello, doctor. I have a situation where I experience tinnitus more easily than others when traveling by car, and while others can equalize their ears, it takes me some time. Previously, after flying, I had a very painful experience; upon landing, I d...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Based on your description, it seems more like a dysfunction of the Eustachian tube. There are many causes for Eustachian tube dysfunction, and I recommend that you see an otolaryngologist for a thorough examination. If you experience extreme discomfort in your ears every t...[Read More] Managing Ear Drum Bleeding: Tips for Safe Air Travel
Can Allergies Trigger Asthma Symptoms in Teens? Expert Insights
Hello, Dr. Hu! Hello, Dr. Hu. I would like to ask about my younger brother (14 years old). He has nasal allergies, and sometimes his eyes itch, which results in dark circles under his eyes. Recently, he has been experiencing nasal congestion, frequent sneezing, and he says he has...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello, asthma is also an allergic reaction, and many patients with allergic rhinitis may also experience asthma. It is recommended that you take your brother for a medical evaluation as soon as possible.[Read More] Can Allergies Trigger Asthma Symptoms in Teens? Expert Insights
Chronic Tinnitus: A 10-Year Struggle for Relief and Answers
Tinnitus has persisted for over ten years? Hello Dr. Hu, I am 36 years old and have a history of tinnitus for over ten years. During my university years, I experienced dizziness a couple of times, and since then, tinnitus has been a constant presence in my life. Initially, it was...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello, although I cannot determine the cause of your tinnitus directly from your letter, I completely understand your distress and suffering. If it is convenient for you, I would be happy to take a look. If it is not possible to come in, I suggest that you have a physician check ...[Read More] Chronic Tinnitus: A 10-Year Struggle for Relief and Answers
Preventing Nasal Air Escape While Playing Saxophone: ENT Insights
Air escaping from the nasal cavity during exhalation? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask, since I often play the saxophone, when I blow a lot of air into the instrument, part of the exhaled air escapes through my nasal cavity in addition to entering the instrument. This issue has...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Issues with the muscle tone of the soft palate may potentially cause the symptoms you described. However, there are other possibilities that could lead to these symptoms. It is recommended that you consult an otolaryngologist for a thorough examination to confirm the cause...[Read More] Preventing Nasal Air Escape While Playing Saxophone: ENT Insights
Can Swimming Trigger Ear Infections? Expert Advice on Prevention
Otitis media Hello, doctor: I would like to ask if swimming can trigger a recurrence of otitis media, and if that means I can never swim again. Thank you.
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Otitis media can be classified as acute or chronic. Generally speaking, if there is a perforation in the eardrum or if it is in the acute inflammatory phase, swimming is not advisable.[Read More] Can Swimming Trigger Ear Infections? Expert Advice on Prevention
Can LP33 Probiotics Help with Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms?
LP33 Hello Doctor: I have allergic rhinitis and often experience a runny nose due to temperature changes. Recently, I've seen advertisements claiming that LP33 probiotics can improve allergic rhinitis. I consulted with an ENT specialist at a clinic, and some said it could be...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Currently, there is insufficient medical evidence to show that LP33 can improve symptoms in all patients with allergic rhinitis.[Read More] Can LP33 Probiotics Help with Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms?
Persistent Coughing: Understanding Throat and Sinus Issues
Coughing can be life-threatening? Since early July, I have occasionally experienced a scratchy throat that leads to coughing. By early August, I started having a runny nose. I have persistent phlegm in my throat, and my coughing has worsened; when I cough, my face turns red and m...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If a cough persists for an extended period, it is recommended to undergo a chest X-ray at the very least. If sinusitis is suspected, a detailed local examination by an otolaryngologist is necessary, and if needed, a sinus X-ray or CT scan should be performed for diagnosis....[Read More] Persistent Coughing: Understanding Throat and Sinus Issues
Understanding Post-Nasal Drip: Is It Allergies or Something Else?
Allergy? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing chronic post-nasal drip for over two years. I have seen multiple doctors without any improvement. I feel that there is a thick, clear, and slippery mucus constantly draining from a spot in my right nasal cavity, near the area below ...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: The normal nasal cavity secretes mucus to maintain moisture, which drains into the throat, but a healthy person typically does not notice this. The sensation of postnasal drip or even severe coughing is most commonly caused by excessive secretion or the mucus being too thi...[Read More] Understanding Post-Nasal Drip: Is It Allergies or Something Else?
Understanding Nasal Polyps: Surgery Risks and Recovery Insights
Nasal polyp Hello Doctor: I have nasal polyps in both nostrils, occupying about 70% of the nasal passages. They have been present for a long time, and recently I have been experiencing persistent nasal congestion while sleeping, along with yellow mucus that forms crusts, causing ...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: All surgeries carry certain risks, but they do not necessarily result in complications. The likelihood of complications may be related to the nature of the disease, the surgical method used, and the patient's constitution, among other factors. Hook Sin.[Read More] Understanding Nasal Polyps: Surgery Risks and Recovery Insights
Can Tonsil Surgery Be Done Under Local Anesthesia? Risks Explained
Tonsillectomy Dear Doctor: I have a small tumor on my left tonsil and I am considering surgery to remove it, but I am afraid of general anesthesia. Can the current tonsil surgery be performed under local anesthesia? Is the risk higher compared to general anesthesia? Thank you for...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Whether general anesthesia is required depends on various factors such as the location, size, nature of the tumor, and the patient's cooperation. It is not mandatory for tonsil tumor surgery to be performed under general anesthesia. If you are concerned about general ...[Read More] Can Tonsil Surgery Be Done Under Local Anesthesia? Risks Explained