Understanding Nosebleeds and Lymph Node Swelling: Key Insights
Nosebleeds and Lymphatics Hello, Dr. Hsu. On November 21, I noticed some slight blood streaks when I wiped my left nostril with tissue. Upon closer inspection with a flashlight, I found that the mucosa in the anterior inferior part of the nasal septum was swollen and showed mild ...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Regarding the situation of nasal mucosa being prone to bleeding, hello: This is quite common in outpatient settings. Generally, as the physician in the clinic would handle it, one must be cautious of other issues in the nasopharynx that may be causing it. If it is simply nasal bl...[Read More] Understanding Nosebleeds and Lymph Node Swelling: Key Insights
Understanding Throat Tightness and Dryness: GERD or Something Else?
My throat feels tight, dry, and strange? Hello Doctor: About three months ago, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which revealed a gastric ulcer and mild inflammation of the esophagus. During the medication period, my condition has been fluctuating; sometimes it imp...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If chronic laryngitis is caused by identifiable factors, these must be excluded for a potential cure. However, we often observe that it is accompanied by other causes, such as autonomic nervous system imbalance, high stress levels, and sleep disturbances, which are also si...[Read More] Understanding Throat Tightness and Dryness: GERD or Something Else?
Understanding Hoarseness: Causes and Remedies for Your Voice
The voice has become hoarse? Hello doctor, I went to see the doctor in the morning because I had a runny nose and a cough. After taking the medication, my voice became hoarse in the evening. What should I do?
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: The process of vocal cord inflammation may not immediately improve with medication; it often requires some time to gradually become effective. During this period, symptoms such as coughing can exacerbate the recovery of the vocal cords. Generally, if the immune system is f...[Read More] Understanding Hoarseness: Causes and Remedies for Your Voice
Understanding Painful Ear Cartilage Nodules: When to Seek ENT Care
Tender mass at the junction of the ear cartilage and earlobe? Hello, I have a lump at the junction of my cartilage and earlobe that has recently increased in size and is tender to the touch, which it wasn't before. Could this be an infection? I previously had a benign subcut...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: These types of small tumors are prone to recurrence. What the doctor told you before is correct; it is closely related to your body's constitution. Typically, they occur in multiple locations. The usual approach is primarily surgical excision, but I would recommend th...[Read More] Understanding Painful Ear Cartilage Nodules: When to Seek ENT Care
Understanding Turbinate Hypertrophy: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Nasal turbinate hypertrophy The nasal septum is slightly deviated, and there is hypertrophy of the inferior turbinate in the left nasal cavity (adjacent to the septum). The area of turbinate hypertrophy shows persistent redness of the mucosa. If accidentally scratched, there may ...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: These are common symptoms in patients with septal deviation combined with inferior turbinate hypertrophy. The airflow creates turbulence at the curvature, which over time can affect the quality of the mucosa and may even lead to microvascular exposure. Of course, a few oth...[Read More] Understanding Turbinate Hypertrophy: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Understanding Nasal Bone Fracture Surgery: Coverage and Risks
Nasal fracture reduction surgery Is there health insurance coverage for closed reduction surgery for nasal bone fractures? What are the potential complications? Once the bone has healed, is it still possible to perform a reduction correction surgery?
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the nasal bone fracture reduction surgery is covered by health insurance, unless the patient requests additional procedures such as cosmetic rhinoplasty, which would be out-of-pocket. Generally, there are no life-threatening side effects, but an evaluation by a specialist ...[Read More] Understanding Nasal Bone Fracture Surgery: Coverage and Risks
Understanding Chronic Rhinitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Chronic rhinitis Dear Dr. Hsu, In addition to symptoms such as frequent sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion, can rhinitis also cause pain similar to that of sinusitis? I have been experiencing intermittent sharp and dull pain in the area of my upper right molars and near ...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Rhinitis and sinusitis can sometimes occur simultaneously, making it difficult to differentiate between the two. Generally, a diagnosis of sinusitis can be made with an X-ray, so X-rays are sufficient for evaluation; it is not always necessary to use a CT scan. When there ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Rhinitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Understanding Nasopharyngeal Biopsy: What to Expect and Next Steps
Nasopharyngeal biopsy Hello, Dr. Hsu. Last month, my comprehensive health check revealed a positive EB VCA IgA index. I visited the ENT department, and during my first consultation, the doctor used an endoscope to examine me, which appeared normal. They also drew blood for furthe...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Abnormal blood test results do require careful attention, but blood tests are not the only basis for diagnosis. The most accurate method is a biopsy, which is currently the definitive standard for medical evaluation. Of course, there are limitations to biopsies, such as th...[Read More] Understanding Nasopharyngeal Biopsy: What to Expect and Next Steps
Understanding Soft Neck Masses: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Lateral neck mass Hello, Doctor. My father has discovered a painless and non-itchy lump on the left side of his neck (towards the cheek area). The lump feels soft and is only visible when he tilts his head back. From the front view, the area from below the left ear to the chin ap...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Neck masses should be handled with caution. The diagnostic accuracy of fine-needle aspiration is approximately 60%, and there is still a possibility of missing malignant components due to the small sampling area. However, aspiration will not cause any changes to the tumor,...[Read More] Understanding Soft Neck Masses: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Peripheral Vertigo: Causes and Symptoms Explained
Peripheral vertigo Dear Dr. Hsu, I would like to inquire whether "peripheral vertigo" could potentially be caused by certain factors and manifest within 1 to 2 days. If so, what could be the possible causes? Thank you very much for your attention. Sincerely, Li Hsi...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello Mr. Lee, dizziness can be categorized into peripheral and central types based on its underlying causes. The peripheral type of dizziness you mentioned primarily arises from disorders of the semicircular canals or the vestibular nerve in both ears. Common causes we encounter...[Read More] Understanding Peripheral Vertigo: Causes and Symptoms Explained
Long-Standing Neck Mass: Should I Monitor or Consider Surgery?
A neck mass that has been present for many years? Hello, Director: I had some small lumps in my neck since childhood, and my family said they would disappear as I grew up. However, there is still one on the left side. Ten years ago, while I was in high school, I discovered two mo...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: When a mass is found in the neck, there is usually a concern about whether it is a metastatic malignant tumor, with nasopharyngeal carcinoma being a common example. An endoscopy may be necessary for diagnosis. After ruling out common lesions, it could also be lymphadenopat...[Read More] Long-Standing Neck Mass: Should I Monitor or Consider Surgery?
Does Misaligned Teeth Affect Speech? A Guide to Speech Therapy
Speech therapy Doctor, I would like to ask you if misaligned teeth can affect speech? My speech is very unclear, and I want to undergo speech therapy, but should I first get my teeth corrected before pursuing speech therapy?
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Occlusal issues can significantly affect pronunciation. Generally, it is necessary to correct these issues before undergoing speech therapy. You may want to consult both a dentist and an otolaryngologist to keep records, which will make future follow-ups easier. Sincerely,...[Read More] Does Misaligned Teeth Affect Speech? A Guide to Speech Therapy
Understanding Unusual Sounds in the Ear: Causes and Solutions
Strange sounds in the ear? Dear Doctor: Sometimes when I wake up in the middle of my sleep and then try to fall back asleep, I hear a thumping sound in my left ear. This only occurs when I am lying on my side with my ear pressed against the pillow. Upon closer observation, the so...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: This type of sound is mostly caused by the contraction of the muscles around the Eustachian tube, which is related to the pressure in our middle ear. The Eustachian tube is responsible for balancing the pressure in the middle ear. It is advisable to check for any blockages...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Sounds in the Ear: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Noises in the Head While Lying Down: A Meniere's Disease Perspective
When lying flat while sleeping for a while, I hear a tapping sound in my head, but it doesn't happen when I lie on my side? Hello Doctor: I currently have Meniere's disease, and my doctor has prescribed medications for peripheral vascular circulation disorders and anti-...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: The definitive diagnosis of Meniere's disease is not easy. If you have already been examined and diagnosed, you should consider appropriate treatment. You mentioned experiencing a "tinnitus" sound, which can sometimes be caused by pressure imbalances due to ...[Read More] Understanding Noises in the Head While Lying Down: A Meniere's Disease Perspective
Understanding Allergic Rhinitis: Connection to Chronic Nasal Issues and Abdominal Pain
Nasal issues..? Hello, doctor. I have been suffering from nasal congestion and a runny nose for over a year without improvement. After an endoscopic examination, the doctor diagnosed me with allergic rhinitis. Recently, I have also been experiencing frequent nosebleeds. I would l...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello, chronic allergic rhinitis can lead to changes in the nasal mucosa and make blood vessels more prone to rupture and bleeding. These are complications of overexertion. It is generally recommended to undergo treatment for a period of time to restore normal function. In rare c...[Read More] Understanding Allergic Rhinitis: Connection to Chronic Nasal Issues and Abdominal Pain
Understanding Tinnitus: Hearing Thresholds and Related Concerns
Tinnitus? I underwent a pure tone audiometry test due to tinnitus, and the doctor informed me of the following: 1. What does "ear buzzing" mean? 2. Is a hearing threshold of 40 decibels in the left ear considered normal aging, damage, or deafness? 3. Is a hearing thresh...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: The hearing issues we are concerned about are considered normal if they are within 30 decibels. If your average hearing loss is at 40 decibels, it is advisable to investigate the cause. Although it may not be possible to restore the damaged portion, understanding the cause...[Read More] Understanding Tinnitus: Hearing Thresholds and Related Concerns
Understanding Lingual Pain: Causes and Solutions for Tongue Discomfort
Tongue pain discomfort? Hello Doctor: Since July, I have been experiencing involuntary scraping of the left edge of my tongue by my teeth. However, the wounds are not very noticeable. At times, the left side of my tongue feels dry, burning, and tingling, and when the pain is seve...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Your issue should be considered in two parts. The first part concerns the wound and dental issues, which you are already addressing. However, I would like to remind you that teeth grinding does not occur without reason. The second part pertains to the underlying causes. I ...[Read More] Understanding Lingual Pain: Causes and Solutions for Tongue Discomfort
Understanding Ear Noises: What Causes Water-Like Sounds?
There is a sound in the ear (similar to the sound of water)? Hello, Dr. Hsu. Sometimes when I lightly touch my ear, I hear a sound that resembles water, but my ear is dry (at most slightly oily). The sound seems to come from the inner layer of the skin. What could be the cause of...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Based on your description, it is difficult to fully assess the condition, but there are several possible causes based on experience. The first is Eustachian tube obstruction, which can occur for various reasons, with inflammation being a major factor. Additionally, small e...[Read More] Understanding Ear Noises: What Causes Water-Like Sounds?
Understanding Ear Congestion, Nasal Blockage, and Prolonged Headaches
Ear congestion, nasal congestion, and headaches lasting more than two weeks? Hello: I have been experiencing headaches for over two weeks, along with nasal congestion and a sensation of phlegm in my throat, which makes swallowing somewhat difficult but does not affect my ability ...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If you have just given birth, it is common to see instances of Eustachian tube obstruction due to the congestion of the mucous membranes not completely resolving. However, since you also have poor vision and headaches, it is important to consider whether there are other is...[Read More] Understanding Ear Congestion, Nasal Blockage, and Prolonged Headaches
Understanding Throat Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Foreign body in the throat? Hello, I previously experienced a sensation of something being stuck in my throat and noticed a small white spot when I looked in the mirror. After a few days, it disappeared on its own, but occasionally, I still experience this situation. What could b...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Common chronic laryngitis often presents with a sensation described as "gritty" or "rough." This is a form of chronic inflammation, and the small white secretions are primarily from minor salivary glands. Generally, this is not a cause for concern, alth...[Read More] Understanding Throat Discomfort: Causes and Concerns