Persistent Positive EBV IGA After Benign Nasopharyngeal Tumor Removal: Next Steps?
EBV IgA has consistently tested positive, but the biopsy of the completely resected nasopharyngeal tumor was benign? Hello Doctor: In early July of this year, I visited an ENT specialist at a local hospital due to mild tinnitus and some hearing impairment. The doctor found a smal...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, there are many factors that can affect EBA IgA levels. If the nasopharyngeal tumor has been surgically removed and the pathology results are benign, it indicates that there is currently no nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Therefore, regular outpatient follow-up is recommended. As...[Read More] Persistent Positive EBV IGA After Benign Nasopharyngeal Tumor Removal: Next Steps?
Understanding Asymmetrical Tonsils: Concerns and Insights
The tonsils are asymmetrical in size? Hello Doctor, I have been feeling a bit uncomfortable on the right side (I saw tonsil stones in the mirror). I noticed that my right tonsil is larger. After visiting the doctor and having the stones removed (the doctor mentioned there is stil...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if you are unable to determine the issue, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngology clinic for a medical examination and confirmation.[Read More] Understanding Asymmetrical Tonsils: Concerns and Insights
Understanding Growth Near Tonsils: What You Need to Know
A lump near the tonsils (see attached image)? Hello Doctor, I have noticed a growth near my tonsils over the past few days, as shown in the image: https://imgur.com/a/tZB30q2. A few days ago, I had a cold and consulted a doctor, during which I mentioned this area. The doctor info...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, it initially appears to be lymphoid tissue of the tonsils. If you have concerns or notice any persistent changes, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Growth Near Tonsils: What You Need to Know
Is It a Fish Bone Stuck in My Throat? Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
Suspected fishbone stuck in the throat? Hello Doctor: Two days ago, I had a dinner that included milkfish meat and skin. During the meal, I felt like I accidentally swallowed one or two small fish bones, but at that moment, I didn't feel any discomfort. Since that night, I&#...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
If you are concerned or continue to experience a foreign body sensation, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for an examination. Generally, you can first go to a clinic for initial management, and if necessary, you can be referred to a hospital for further treatment.[Read More] Is It a Fish Bone Stuck in My Throat? Understanding Symptoms and Next Steps
Can Smoking Affect Oral Adhesives for Mouth Sores?
Doctor, I have a problem with mouth sores? Buy oral patches for mouth ulcers called "Kou Shu Shuang Mouth Ulcer Oral Tablets." You can apply them 1 to 2 times a day. If I apply the patch on a mouth ulcer and smoke, will it cause any issues? I usually apply it while slee...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Smoking can affect wound healing, and long-term smoking may lead to oral cancer. If an oral ulcer does not heal within two weeks, it is recommended to see an otolaryngologist for evaluation.[Read More] Can Smoking Affect Oral Adhesives for Mouth Sores?
Blood-Streaked Nasal Mucus: Should You Worry?
Nasal discharge with blood streaks? Hello Doctor: This morning I noticed blood streaks in my nasal mucus, which I haven't experienced before. I am currently taking anticoagulant medication, and I'm unsure if this is a side effect of the medication or if I should observe...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
If you continue to see blood streaks, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for examination and confirmation.[Read More] Blood-Streaked Nasal Mucus: Should You Worry?
Understanding Nasopharyngeal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Oropharyngeal secretions Hello, I often feel a sticky sensation in my nasopharynx or throat, which gives me a feeling of having a foreign object and makes me want to vomit. Swallowing saliva helps alleviate the urge to vomit. I have a need for orthodontic treatment, which require...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the sensitivity of the throat varies from person to person. For orthodontic treatment, it is advisable to consult a dental professional. Regarding throat sensitivity, options such as anesthesia or other methods may be considered for management.[Read More] Understanding Nasopharyngeal Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
How to Differentiate Between Viral and Bacterial Infections in Throat Issues
Sore throat due to a cold? Hello, doctor. I've been experiencing a runny nose, swollen throat, severe throat pain, and yellow phlegm and nasal discharge for the past few days. I saw a doctor who said it was a viral infection. I would like to ask how to differentiate between ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, it is possible that a bacterial infection may require the use of antibiotics. Clinicians will evaluate multiple factors, such as the presence of purulent sputum, purulent nasal discharge, fever, as well as the results of physical examinations and the progression of the ill...[Read More] How to Differentiate Between Viral and Bacterial Infections in Throat Issues
Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Lymphadenopathy Hello, doctor: About 10 days ago, I noticed a lump in the fifth area of my neck while showering. Recently, I have been taking the pineapple enzyme and B vitamins prescribed by the doctor, but the lump has only fluctuated in size. Current status: it is movable, pai...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if you have already been examined by a physician and the lymph nodes are movable and not painful, you can start with self-monitoring. After inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes and subsequent medication treatment, they may decrease in size, but it is not guaranteed tha...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Sudden Hearing Loss: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Sudden hearing loss in one ear? Hello, doctor. This morning, I suddenly experienced a significant reduction in hearing in both ears, feeling stuffy and uncomfortable, as if water had entered my ears, or like I was submerged in a swimming pool. After this incident, I tried yawning...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if there is no persistent hearing loss and hearing recovers in a short period, it is often related to Eustachian tube dysfunction. If there are no obvious symptoms, you may observe it for a while. However, if it occurs repeatedly or if you have concerns, you should visit a...[Read More] Sudden Hearing Loss: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding a Soft Lump Near the Salivary Gland: Causes and Treatment
A small lump near the salivary glands? Hello, I have developed a small lump about the size of a grain of rice on the gum area in front of my submandibular salivary gland. It is slightly flattened and usually not visible; I can only feel it when I push my tongue against the gum. I...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, issues with the minor salivary glands are quite common. Generally, if there are no symptoms, it is advisable to monitor the situation. If there are concerns, you can visit an otolaryngologist for examination and confirmation.[Read More] Understanding a Soft Lump Near the Salivary Gland: Causes and Treatment
Understanding Sublingual Salivary Gland Variations: Is Asymmetry Normal?
Sublingual salivary gland duct opening 1. Is it normal for the openings of the submandibular salivary glands on both sides of the tongue to be different in size? I have observed for a month and noticed that the protrusion on the right side is slightly larger, but it hasn't c...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if there are no obvious symptoms such as pain, redness, or swelling, slight variations in the openings of the submandibular salivary glands are normal and can be monitored on your own. If you are concerned, you may visit an otolaryngology clinic for examination and confirm...[Read More] Understanding Sublingual Salivary Gland Variations: Is Asymmetry Normal?
Understanding a Lump Between the Jaw and Neck: ENT Insights
A lump between the right lower jaw and the neck? In the past month, after eating, I noticed a large lump between my right lower jaw and neck, approximately 2 to 3 centimeters in size (the left side is normal). However, after about half an hour, it disappears. I checked my oral ca...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, common issues that may involve the submandibular gland include discomfort in the neck area. If the discomfort persists, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist for examination.[Read More] Understanding a Lump Between the Jaw and Neck: ENT Insights
Managing Your Child's Nasal Bleeding: Causes and Solutions
Every day, there is dried blood when I clean my nasal mucus? Hello Doctor, my son is over five years old and has a problem with nasal allergies. For the past two to three months, he has occasionally had sudden nosebleeds, sometimes due to bumps, and other times while sleeping in ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if you frequently have bloody nasal mucus, it is commonly caused by the rupture of small blood vessels in the nasal septum. If you have allergies, it is advisable to manage them with medication to avoid frequent nose rubbing or repeated sneezing that can lead to bleeding. ...[Read More] Managing Your Child's Nasal Bleeding: Causes and Solutions
Unexplained Citrus Smell: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
I keep smelling an unidentified orange scent and lemon scent? I have been consistently smelling the fragrance of oranges and lemons. I confirmed with friends that it is not an environmental scent. I found online that some people say it could be sinusitis, while others suggest it ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
If symptoms persist for more than a week without improvement, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for an examination.[Read More] Unexplained Citrus Smell: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Post-Polypectomy: Understanding Bleeding and Discharge After Surgery
Nasal polypectomy? I had a unilateral nasal polyp and underwent a biopsy surgery yesterday afternoon. Within three hours post-surgery, I noticed continuous bleeding and secretions flowing down my throat. I returned to the hospital for an endoscopic examination, and the doctor ind...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, it is common to have bloody discharge within a week after a biopsy due to the incision. If there is no significant bleeding, you can observe the situation first and then return for regular follow-up appointments to monitor and review the results.[Read More] Post-Polypectomy: Understanding Bleeding and Discharge After Surgery
Understanding Post-Nasal Drip and Taste Smell Disorders: A Guide
Olfactory and gustatory abnormalities, post-nasal drip? Hello, Doctor. I suddenly started experiencing post-nasal drip about a year ago. I underwent turbinate surgery during this time, but the post-nasal drip has not improved, and I have also developed issues with smell and taste...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if abnormalities in smell and taste are examined by a physician and no obvious tumors or sinusitis are found, they are often related to viral infections or other unknown causes that lead to damage or degeneration of the olfactory nerves. If symptoms persist without improve...[Read More] Understanding Post-Nasal Drip and Taste Smell Disorders: A Guide
Understanding Unilateral Nasal Polyps: Risks and Concerns
Unilateral nasal polyp I am 43 years old, do not smoke, drink alcohol, or chew betel nut. Last week, I had a cold with a sore throat, sinusitis, and yellow nasal discharge that was draining into my throat. There was blood in the mucus, so I went to a clinic for examination. An en...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
If you are concerned about abnormalities, it is recommended to undergo surgery or a biopsy to confirm a unilateral nasal polyp.[Read More] Understanding Unilateral Nasal Polyps: Risks and Concerns
Understanding Tongue Pits: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Depressions appear on the surface of the tongue? I do not smoke or drink alcohol, nor do I chew betel nut. In July, I visited Mackay Memorial Hospital because my tongue had a patch of redness. The doctor diagnosed it as geographic tongue. Over the past month, I suddenly noticed a...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the indentation may be related to an infection that caused surface tissue depression. If there is pain or if the area continues to change, it is recommended to see an otolaryngologist for examination and treatment. If there are no obvious symptoms, you may observe it yours...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Pits: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Understanding Right Vocal Cord Paralysis: Causes, Diagnosis, and Recovery
Right vocal cord paralysis? Hello Dr. Cheng, On January 13, 2023, I visited a regional hospital in Yunlin due to a cold and cough. During the examination, the physician inadvertently discovered that my right vocal cord exhibited signs of paralysis using a nasal endoscope (my voi...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, I agree with the second point regarding the clinical judgment of the two physicians. If there is improvement, outpatient follow-up observation can continue. Whether further examinations are needed should be determined by the clinical physician based on changes in symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Right Vocal Cord Paralysis: Causes, Diagnosis, and Recovery