Understanding Adenoidectomy: Pros and Cons of Surgical Options for Kids
Adenoidectomy Hello Doctor: My 5-year-old child has been diagnosed with "adenoid hypertrophy" during an outpatient visit. Could you please explain the advantages and disadvantages of adenoidectomy techniques such as laser surgery, ultrasound surgery, and traditional Sta...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, any type of surgery for adenoid hypertrophy is generally effective. In Taiwan, besides the traditional excisional surgery, there has been an increasing use of high-frequency radiofrequency surgery in recent years. The advantage of this procedu...[Read More] Understanding Adenoidectomy: Pros and Cons of Surgical Options for Kids
Can Bugs Crawl into My Ear While I Sleep on the Floor?
Concerns or Worries Doctor, I would like to ask you a question. I usually sleep on the floor, and I recently discovered that there are cockroaches and ants in the area where I sleep. I am worried that ants or cockroach larvae might crawl into my ears, rupture my eardrum, and then...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, I have heard that ants can rupture eardrums, but they do not enter the brain. Please don't let your imagination run too wild.[Read More] Can Bugs Crawl into My Ear While I Sleep on the Floor?
Unraveling the Mystery of Ear, Nose, and Throat Infections
Alien invasion of the ear, nose, and throat? Dear Dr. Hsu, Hello, I would like to share a recent experience regarding my ear, nose, and throat. On the morning of April 10, while at work, I suddenly felt an itch in my left nostril. Instinctively, I pressed my right nostril and fo...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, the metastasis of the lesions is indeed a significant concern for patients. Your physician has already arranged for endoscopy, X-rays, and CT scans. I believe it would be best for you to wait for the results of these examinations. If you are s...[Read More] Unraveling the Mystery of Ear, Nose, and Throat Infections
Understanding Dizziness: Causes, Management, and Prevention Tips
Dizziness syndrome My mother experiences dizziness; it happened once last year as well. When she feels dizzy, she describes it as very severe, with her head feeling completely heavy and unsteady while walking. However, she does not experience tinnitus. Additionally, she sometimes...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, there are many causes of vertigo. If your mother has been experiencing this issue for a long time, it is advisable to consult an otoneurologist for a thorough examination to identify the underlying cause, as some serious central nervous system...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness: Causes, Management, and Prevention Tips
Understanding Ear Pain and Hearing Loss: Common ENT Issues
Hearing ability of the ear? Hello, about once while I was sleeping at night, I suddenly experienced a strong pain in my left ear. After that, I frequently felt sounds in my ear, which lasted for about six months. Then, I noticed that my left ear seemed to have reduced hearing, ap...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, based on your description, it may be due to poor Eustachian tube function. I recommend undergoing further functional tests in an otolaryngology department, which may help clarify your concerns.[Read More] Understanding Ear Pain and Hearing Loss: Common ENT Issues
Assessing Facial Nerve Integrity After Parotid Tumor Surgery: Key Insights
How to confirm the integrity of the facial nerve after the removal of a tumor from the left parotid gland? Hello Doctor: My family member, a 26-year-old female teacher, recently underwent a left parotid gland tumor excision two days ago. She is experiencing facial asymmetry, incl...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, during parotid gland excision, the facial nerve runs between the two lobes of the parotid gland, which often leads to nerve involvement by tumors. The dissection during surgery can be challenging, and it is common to experience partial functio...[Read More] Assessing Facial Nerve Integrity After Parotid Tumor Surgery: Key Insights
Can You Apply for a Disability Certificate with Single-Ear Hearing Loss?
Can I apply for a disability certificate? Hello! If I have hearing impairment in only one ear, can I apply for a disability certificate? My friend mentioned that it seems like a bilateral hearing impairment is required. Thank you!
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, yes, according to the current standards set by the Social Affairs Bureau, a hearing loss of 55 decibels or more is required to apply for a disability certificate.[Read More] Can You Apply for a Disability Certificate with Single-Ear Hearing Loss?
Understanding Ear Pain and Hearing Loss: What You Need to Know
I have a lot of pain in my right ear and I'm having difficulty hearing! Hello Doctor: A couple of days ago, I suddenly had a lot of pain in my ear, as if I had used a cotton swab to clean it! I can't remember... Later, I went to see a doctor, but he didn't say much...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, your condition is external auditory canal inflammation and swelling, which is causing pain. Additionally, due to the swelling, your hearing is impaired, but once the swelling subsides, your hearing will naturally improve. The correct medical t...[Read More] Understanding Ear Pain and Hearing Loss: What You Need to Know
Concerns About Persistent Lymph Nodes in a Toddler: What to Know
Please ask your question? Hello, my child is currently one and a half years old. He was hospitalized for a month last year due to fever and bronchitis. Since being discharged, he has been treated with traditional Chinese medicine. He has had two hard lymph nodes behind his ears s...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, the presence of lumps in the neck or behind the ear typically requires evaluation based on the color, size, changes over time, tenderness, consistency (soft or hard), and precise location of the lumps, which can be very helpful for diagnosis. ...[Read More] Concerns About Persistent Lymph Nodes in a Toddler: What to Know
Understanding Causes of Nasal Pain: A Guide for Young Adults
Causes of Nasal Pain I am nineteen years old and usually experience symptoms of nasal allergies. Recently, I have had intermittent pain in my nose that lasts for about half an hour, resembling trigeminal neuralgia, but the pain is limited to my nose and nasal bridge. I visited th...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, based on your symptoms, it is possible that the issue is related to your glasses. However, further differential diagnosis is necessary, which requires the expertise of a specialist. Please seek assistance from an otolaryngologist and an ophtha...[Read More] Understanding Causes of Nasal Pain: A Guide for Young Adults
Understanding Dizziness and Nausea: Seeking Clarity in ENT Issues
Dizziness and vomiting? Hello Dr. Hsu, I experienced a sore throat in mid-March of this year. Initially, I consulted an otolaryngologist, but after five days with no improvement (I saw other doctors in between), the pain intensified to the point where I could hardly eat. During ...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, there are many causes of sore throat, and a thorough differential diagnosis by a clinician is necessary. I recommend that you follow up with the same physician for continuity of care, as this will make it easier to understand your medication s...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Nausea: Seeking Clarity in ENT Issues
Understanding Esophageal Stricture: Symptoms and Diagnosis Explained
Esophageal stricture refers to the narrowing of the esophagus, which can lead to difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) and other complications. This Hello Doctor: I have had a problem since middle school. After eating (not a large amount), I easily experience symptoms similar to naus...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, it sounds like your symptoms are more similar to issues related to the esophagus or stomach. I recommend consulting a gastroenterologist for diagnosis and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Esophageal Stricture: Symptoms and Diagnosis Explained
Managing Scars After Neck Surgery: Tips for Minimal Visibility
Scars after head and neck surgery? Hello Doctor: I have a tumor in my lateral pharyngeal area that needs to be surgically removed through an incision on my neck. The doctor mentioned that the incision will be approximately 10 centimeters long (extending from just below the earlob...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, the appropriate management for a tumor in the lateral neck is surgical excision, unless the tumor is small or superficial. Generally, it is safer to remove the entire tumor. Regarding wound closure, if there are no tension-related issues, a su...[Read More] Managing Scars After Neck Surgery: Tips for Minimal Visibility
Unexplained Swelling in Upper Gum: When to See an ENT Specialist?
There is a lump in the upper gum of the left cheek that feels about the size of a peanut, but it is not painful and cannot be felt upon touch? On New Year's Day, I noticed a lump in my upper left gum that is about the size of a peanut. It is not painful and I cannot feel it ...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, it is recommended to consult with an oral surgeon or an otolaryngologist.[Read More] Unexplained Swelling in Upper Gum: When to See an ENT Specialist?
Understanding Ear and Cheek Connection Issues: Symptoms and Causes
There is a lump at the junction of the outer ear and the cheek? Hello: I have a lump near the junction of my right outer ear and cheek (approximately in the middle), and I feel a swelling sensation under both ears. I can also feel some lymph nodes in my neck. Recently, I've ...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, this is caused by a local infection leading to impaired function of the Eustachian tube. I recommend that you do not wait any longer and seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid further complications.[Read More] Understanding Ear and Cheek Connection Issues: Symptoms and Causes
Managing Ear Pain and Tinnitus: Home Remedies and Tips
Ear ringing and ear pain? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing tinnitus for the past four to five days. It doesn't occur when I lie down, but it becomes noticeable when I walk around. Lowering my head seems to alleviate the tinnitus. In the past couple of days, I've s...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, it is usually your own salivary gland that is swollen. Generally, if it hasn't increased in size, you can ignore it. However, if there are changes, please seek assistance from an otolaryngologist. Hearing does not change simply due to fre...[Read More] Managing Ear Pain and Tinnitus: Home Remedies and Tips
Managing Earwax Blockage: Pain Relief Options and Treatment Tips
Earwax impaction Hello, Dr. Hsu. I have a situation with earwax impaction in my right ear, so I visited a nearby pediatric clinic. During the procedure to remove the earwax, I experienced excruciating pain that was unbearable, which prevented the doctor from continuing. Currently...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, severe cerumen impaction or issues related to otitis media can be addressed by using either general or local anesthesia to remove the obstructing earwax. This procedure can typically be performed in most hospitals.[Read More] Managing Earwax Blockage: Pain Relief Options and Treatment Tips
Understanding Deviated Septum Surgery: Recovery and Long-Term Outcomes
Deviated septum Hello Dr. Hsu: I previously visited the hospital, where the doctor took an X-ray and informed me that my nasal septum is severely deviated! Surgery is required. I would like to ask if undergoing surgery will completely resolve the issue. Will there be any recurren...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello, in response to your question, a deviated septum is a very common condition. If the X-ray shows significant deviation and there are clinical symptoms, surgery is recommended. A person only develops once, so after correction, there should be no further issues with deviation.[Read More] Understanding Deviated Septum Surgery: Recovery and Long-Term Outcomes
Understanding Tinnitus: Is There Hope for Treatment?
excuse me? Doctor, may I ask about my father? He has tinnitus in his left ear, and it has progressed to the point where he can no longer hear anything. We consulted a doctor who said it cannot be cured and that he has to live with the tinnitus. Is there really no way to help my f...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello, in response to your question: I sympathize with your father's condition, but I want you to know that many times, there are no better methods to manage certain medical conditions with current medical knowledge. There are various reasons for this, and if a specialist ha...[Read More] Understanding Tinnitus: Is There Hope for Treatment?
Understanding Dizziness and Tinnitus: Insights on Auditory Sensitivity
Dizziness and tinnitus? Hello Dr. Hsu, I have some questions on behalf of my mother. Ever since she started taking traditional Chinese medicine and receiving ear acupuncture, she has been experiencing dizziness. It’s not a spinning sensation, but rather a horizontal dizziness. W...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, there are many conditions that can cause dizziness, and the treatment methods vary accordingly. For your mother's situation, a detailed examination of the vestibular system is necessary to arrive at a more definitive diagnosis. These test...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness and Tinnitus: Insights on Auditory Sensitivity