Understanding Sleep Apnea: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
Sleep Apnea Dear Director Hu, I have symptoms of sleep apnea and underwent uvulopalatopharyngoplasty last August, performed by Dr. Hsu Chia-Cheng, the former head of the ENT department. Since I also have a deviated nasal septum and predominantly breathe through one side (right s...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: There are many causes of obstructive sleep apnea, which may include enlarged soft palate, enlarged tonsils, deviated nasal septum, obesity, and more. The degree of improvement after surgery still needs to be evaluated clinically and observed postoperatively. Nasal septum s...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Apnea: Surgical Options and Recovery Insights
Is It Allergic Rhinitis? Symptoms and When to See a Doctor
Allergic rhinitis Recently, I've been sneezing frequently in the mornings and blowing my nose, sometimes for an entire day. The nasal discharge is mostly clear. Could this be allergic rhinitis? Should I see a doctor? Also, sometimes my nose hurts; it hurts when I move or tou...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your description, you likely have nasal allergies. Further examination is needed to determine whether it is allergic rhinitis or vasomotor rhinitis. If you are experiencing nasal pain, it is best to consult an otolaryngologist for a detailed examination. Sin...[Read More] Is It Allergic Rhinitis? Symptoms and When to See a Doctor
Common ENT Concerns: Lymph Nodes and Ear Wax Issues Explained
Please ask your questions! 1. I have a lymph node on both sides of my Adam's apple (approximately a few millimeters on the left and over one centimeter on the right). After a physical examination by an ENT specialist, I was told it was nothing to worry about. I would like to...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello, I would like to respond as follows: 1. There are various methods to examine neck masses, including palpation, flexible nasopharyngoscopy, computed tomography, and other techniques. The choice of examination methods depends on the specific circumstances. Generally, flexib...[Read More] Common ENT Concerns: Lymph Nodes and Ear Wax Issues Explained
Understanding Bad Breath: Causes and ENT Insights
Foul-smelling breath? I do not have a runny nose or excessive nasal discharge, but my breath has an unpleasant odor. When I went to the hospital for a check-up, the doctor only mentioned that the color of my nose didn't look good. What does that mean? What other conditions c...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
There are many causes that can lead to foul-smelling breath, including rhinitis, sinusitis, and even gastrointestinal issues. It is recommended that you consult an otolaryngologist for a thorough examination.[Read More] Understanding Bad Breath: Causes and ENT Insights
Exploring Advanced Surgical Options for Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep Apnea Hello, Doctor. I have obstructive sleep apnea and have undergone several procedures including septoplasty, inferior turbinate reduction, uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), tonsillectomy, and adenoidectomy. Currently, I still experience an average of 17 apneas per hour....
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if you have undergone so many surgeries and still experience severe symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, it is recommended that you visit a medical center for a thorough evaluation to assess your suitability for the subsequent surgery you mentioned. Hook Sin.[Read More] Exploring Advanced Surgical Options for Sleep Apnea Treatment
Can Surgery Improve Hoarse and Deep Voice? ENT Insights
Can voice be changed? I have had a hoarse and deep voice since childhood, which has affected my interpersonal relationships. Doctor, is it possible to undergo surgery to improve this condition? If so, will I need to be hospitalized, and is there a possibility of side effects or r...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello, there are many reasons that can cause a hoarse and low voice. Regarding your voice issue, I recommend that you undergo a thorough examination by an otolaryngologist before deciding whether to proceed with surgery. Hook Sin.[Read More] Can Surgery Improve Hoarse and Deep Voice? ENT Insights
Understanding Sleep Apnea: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Sleep Apnea Hello doctor, I have been experiencing chronic nasal congestion, and my family says that I sleep with my mouth wide open at night. Every morning when I wake up, my mouth is very dry and my throat hurts. I also notice some peeling in my oral cavity that I can spit out....
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Sleep apnea is defined as the phenomenon of airflow cessation for more than 10 seconds during sleep. You can ask your family to monitor for this condition or visit a hospital for an examination. Hooke's law.[Read More] Understanding Sleep Apnea: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Sinus Surgery Concerns: Post-Op Care and Complications Explained
Sinusitis and Surgical Issues Hello Doctor, I had an endoscopic surgery three years ago performed by the then director at the hospital. I would like to ask about the follow-up visit to remove something from my nose (I can't remember if it was a gauze strip or something else)...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello, your condition may require a clinical examination to understand better. We welcome you to return for a follow-up appointment with ENT specialist Dr. Hu Ke-xin.[Read More] Sinus Surgery Concerns: Post-Op Care and Complications Explained
Allergic Rhinitis and Light Therapy: Treatment Options in Taoyuan
Allergic rhinitis and phototherapy treatment? Hello Dr. Hu: Two years ago, I underwent phototherapy for allergic rhinitis at Taoyuan General Hospital, and I have noticed improvements since then. I would like to express my gratitude. My daughter is also experiencing similar sympto...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: I'm glad to hear that you have improved, congratulations. I am currently undergoing the same treatment at Keelung Hospital, but I'm sorry, I do not know where this type of treatment can be done in Zhongli or Taoyuan. Best regards, Huxin.[Read More] Allergic Rhinitis and Light Therapy: Treatment Options in Taoyuan
Allergic Rhinitis and Phototherapy: Effective Treatment Options
Allergic rhinitis and phototherapy? Hello Dr. Hu: Thank you for your prompt response to my question. However, since it is also a public hospital, could you suggest that the same treatment could be performed at Taoyuan General Hospital? After all, I have previously undergone photo...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response, we would like to inform you that the personnel from the ENT department of Taoyuan Hospital have indicated that due to the lack of relevant equipment and specialized personnel for phototherapy, the hospital is currently unable to perform this service. We apprec...[Read More] Allergic Rhinitis and Phototherapy: Effective Treatment Options
Can Drinking Water Reduce Bad Breath After Salivary Gland Surgery?
Surgery Salivary gland surgery can lead to reduced saliva production, which may cause bad breath. Drinking plenty of water can help alleviate bad breath by keeping the mouth moist and promoting saliva flow.
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: I would like to respond as follows: This can help reduce bad breath.[Read More] Can Drinking Water Reduce Bad Breath After Salivary Gland Surgery?
Can Tinnitus Surgery Restore Hearing Loss? Insights from Keelung St. Heart Elementary
Tinnitus Can tinnitus that leads to hearing loss be surgically treated to restore hearing? Lin Lingqi, Keelung Sacred Heart Elementary School.
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: I would like to respond as follows: Tinnitus is often associated with hearing impairment. Since there are many potential causes for this symptom, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist for an examination before deciding whether surgical treatment is appropriate. Dr...[Read More] Can Tinnitus Surgery Restore Hearing Loss? Insights from Keelung St. Heart Elementary
Understanding Sinus Surgery: Recovery Tips and Pain Management
Sinusitis surgery Hello, Dr. Hu: I recently went to the hospital and was diagnosed with sinusitis, which is quite extensive. The doctor has recommended surgery! I have a few questions I would like to ask. 1. I have keloids and an allergic constitution; will my recovery from sur...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: 1. If you do not have a severe allergic constitution, your postoperative recovery should not differ significantly from that of the general population. 2. If you do not have a special occupation, such as heavy labor, you should be able to return to normal activities after s...[Read More] Understanding Sinus Surgery: Recovery Tips and Pain Management
Impact of Partial Salivary Gland Removal on Bad Breath and Cavities
excuse me? Will partial removal of the salivary glands affect bad breath in daily life? With reduced saliva, how can we address the issue of cavities? Thank you for your response, doctor.
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, if a portion of the salivary gland is removed and it does not result in dry mouth, it does not necessarily lead to halitosis. Having less saliva does not automatically mean one will develop cavities; if cavities do occur, it is advisable to se...[Read More] Impact of Partial Salivary Gland Removal on Bad Breath and Cavities
Understanding Post-Surgery Changes in Nasal Structure and Scarring
Postoperative Hello, doctor: A few years ago, I underwent surgery due to severe nasal congestion. After recovery, will there be any scarring or changes in the structure of my nose? Recently, I visited an otolaryngologist due to discomfort, and after examining my nose, the doctor ...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: After some nasal obstruction surgeries, otolaryngologists can easily identify the changes. It's mostly not due to scars, but rather the alterations in anatomy. Because otolaryngologists are professionally trained, they can tell at a glance if you have undergone surger...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Changes in Nasal Structure and Scarring
Understanding Ear Distortion: Why High and Low Frequencies Affect One Ear
Hearing music through the ears may result in distortion? In my right ear, whenever I wear headphones and hear higher or lower frequencies, it feels like the sound is distorted, and my ear canal vibrates. I can still hear the sound, but the distortion in that ear is persistent. As...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Your issue seems to resemble "auditory hypersensitivity," and there are many potential causes for this condition, including noise-induced hearing damage, head trauma, chronic ear infections, autoimmune diseases, and unknown reasons. It is advisable to undergo a h...[Read More] Understanding Ear Distortion: Why High and Low Frequencies Affect One Ear
Blood in Phlegm: Understanding Causes and When to See an ENT
Coughing up blood? Hello, Doctor. I often experience nasal allergies, and after blowing my nose, I have a habit of rolling up tissue and inserting it into my nostrils to clean them thoroughly. Recently, when I pulled the tissue out, there was always blood on it, but I didn't...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: There are many causes for mucus or phlegm containing blood, including injury to the nasal mucosa, nasopharyngeal cancer, or other reasons. It is recommended that you see an otolaryngologist as soon as possible for an examination. Wishing you good health, Dr. Hu Ksin, Depar...[Read More] Blood in Phlegm: Understanding Causes and When to See an ENT
Swallowed a Mosquito: Ear, Nose, and Throat Concerns Explained
A mosquito flew into the throat? Hello, Dr. Hu. I would like to ask you a question. While in an elevator, I inhaled a fairly large mosquito due to breathing too forcefully, and it got stuck at the junction of my nasal cavity and throat, causing pain in the back of my nasal cavity...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If you are still experiencing pain, it may be necessary to consult an otolaryngologist to check for inflammation or infection. Hooke's sign.[Read More] Swallowed a Mosquito: Ear, Nose, and Throat Concerns Explained
Understanding Earwax: Causes, Bacteria Growth, and Treatment Explained
excuse me? Why is earwax often wet and sticky? Is it prone to bacterial growth? Is this considered normal? Additionally, what is the purpose of a doctor applying medication in the ear?
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Earwax is not always wet and sticky; many people have dry earwax. As long as it does not cause any pathological changes or discomfort, both dry and wet earwax can be considered normal. There are many reasons why a physician may instill drops into the ear, and different sol...[Read More] Understanding Earwax: Causes, Bacteria Growth, and Treatment Explained
Managing Allergic Rhinitis in Infants and Toddlers: Treatment Options and Care
Allergic rhinitis in infants and young children? Hello, Doctor! I have two sons, one just turned one year old and the other just turned four. Both of them have been diagnosed with allergic rhinitis. They experience nasal congestion at night, and the younger one especially has tro...
Dr. Hu Kexin reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Allergic rhinitis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact quality of life, especially since both of your sons have this condition; I can understand your anxious feelings. If it is a simple case of allergic rhinitis, doctors typically prescribe antihistamines o...[Read More] Managing Allergic Rhinitis in Infants and Toddlers: Treatment Options and Care