Understanding Earwax Buildup: Causes and Solutions for Ear Issues
Ear problems Hello doctor, I often have earwax that does not fall out on its own, and after accumulating for a while, I clean my ears and find a hard mass in the ear canal that is flesh-colored and slightly white, about 0.5 cm in size. It is not painful, and I can barely touch it...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
If you are unable to determine the cause and are concerned or if the symptoms persist, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for examination and confirmation.[Read More] Understanding Earwax Buildup: Causes and Solutions for Ear Issues
Understanding Hearing Thresholds: Interpreting Audiogram Results
Hearing threshold Hello Dr. Cheng: I have a question regarding the results of the hearing test. Can the "hearing threshold" on the audiogram be interpreted not only as the softest sound that the ear can detect but also as the actual perceived decibel level, which would ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
The decibel value is logarithmic, so it should not be interpreted in this way.[Read More] Understanding Hearing Thresholds: Interpreting Audiogram Results
Understanding Sinusitis: Environmental Factors and Allergies
Environmental Issues Related to Sinusitis Hello, Doctor. I have had allergic tendencies since childhood. Recently, I have been experiencing post-nasal drip, and at times, it feels like I am choking on mucus, even producing sounds similar to a pig squealing. This has persisted for...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, whether you have chronic or acute sinusitis, or if it is a bacterial or fungal infection, needs to be determined by a clinical physician through physical examination, bacterial culture, or relevant imaging studies. If you are concerned or if symptoms persist without improv...[Read More] Understanding Sinusitis: Environmental Factors and Allergies
Understanding Sinusitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Nasal issues Hello Doctor, I have allergic rhinitis since childhood due to family genetics. I heard that long-term nasal allergies can lead to sinusitis, and for the past year, I sometimes notice unusual smells (which I understand can be a symptom of sinusitis). I am currently un...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, allergic rhinitis typically does not produce any foul odor. If there is a persistent bad smell, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist to check for a bacterial infection that may be causing sinusitis. Whether sinusitis requires surgical treatment or can be managed wi...[Read More] Understanding Sinusitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Understanding Tinnitus: The Impact of Earplugs on Your Hearing Health
Tinnitus issues Hello doctor, I have a long-standing habit of wearing 3M noise-canceling earplugs while sleeping. In mid-December, while wearing them, I was suddenly awakened by a low-frequency sound in my right ear. It wasn't a ringing sound like "EEE," but rather...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, wearing earplugs may alter the pressure inside and outside the ear, potentially causing tinnitus. If you have already been examined and no significant abnormalities were found, you may consider self-monitoring or opting not to wear earplugs while sleeping, unless there is ...[Read More] Understanding Tinnitus: The Impact of Earplugs on Your Hearing Health
Understanding Unilateral Nasal Congestion: Is It Just Allergic Rhinitis?
Nasal congestion and rhinitis? I have recently been experiencing nasal congestion on the right side, with a sensation of phlegm located between my throat and nose on the right side. The phlegm and nasal discharge are both clear and without blood. Today, I visited an ENT specialis...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, conditions such as allergies, a deviated septum, or chronic rhinitis can cause nasal congestion. If unilateral nasal congestion is examined by a clinician and no obvious abnormalities are found, you may initially monitor the situation or consider medication. However, if un...[Read More] Understanding Unilateral Nasal Congestion: Is It Just Allergic Rhinitis?
Understanding Post-Nasal Drip: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Post-nasal drip On New Year's Eve, I had a slight cold and took some medication, but I felt uncomfortable in my stomach after taking too many pills, so I stopped after three or four packets. By the fifth day of the new year, I felt like there was phlegm stuck in my nose and ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if you commonly experience sinusitis or chronic rhinitis and are concerned about potential issues with the nasopharynx, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for examination and confirmation.[Read More] Understanding Post-Nasal Drip: Causes and Concerns for Your Health
Sudden Growth Under Tongue: What You Need to Know
A sudden appearance of a growth resembling a polyp under the tongue? I suddenly noticed a small growth under the tongue, specifically on the sublingual papilla. It doesn't hurt, but I can feel my tongue touching it. I just discovered it today. Please have a look, thank you.
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, inflammation of the minor salivary glands is common. If you are concerned or continue to feel discomfort, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist for an examination.[Read More] Sudden Growth Under Tongue: What You Need to Know
Understanding Tonsil Stones: Causes, Symptoms, and Home Remedies
Tonsil stones Hello, doctor. I have a problem with tonsil stones, but I usually only have one stone at a time, and most of them come out from the same spot. I've visited an ENT specialist several times, and the doctor helps to squeeze them out. Each time, the doctor says the...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, it is recommended to rinse your mouth after each meal. You may try gently cleaning with a cotton swab, but this could potentially cause inflammation. If the discomfort persists, surgical removal may be considered for a permanent solution.[Read More] Understanding Tonsil Stones: Causes, Symptoms, and Home Remedies
Understanding Long-Term Effects of Acute Parotitis: Symptoms and Solutions
Complications of acute parotitis? Hello, Doctor. Since 2015, I have experienced inflammation of the left parotid gland every so often, with a total of three episodes. I have eliminated fried foods from my diet and underwent a CT scan to rule out the possibility of stones. Unfortu...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, it is common for the salivary duct to become obstructed after an infection, which can lead to swelling when there is a high demand for saliva production after eating. If there are no persistent symptoms such as redness, swelling, heat, or pain, it may not necessarily indic...[Read More] Understanding Long-Term Effects of Acute Parotitis: Symptoms and Solutions
Understanding Hearing Loss: Why Can't I Hear Certain High Frequencies?
Unable to hear certain frequencies in one ear? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my hearing. I generally do not have significant issues in daily life, but occasionally I feel a slight pressure in my right ear when I wake up, which usually resolves after a while. Recently, ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, since general hearing loss is often symmetrical in both ears, if there is a difference in hearing in one ear, it is advisable to visit a hospital for a hearing evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Hearing Loss: Why Can't I Hear Certain High Frequencies?
Swallowed a Small Screw? Symptoms and What to Do Next
Uncertain if it was an accidental ingestion? Hello, Doctor. I apologize for the silly question, but I would like to ask about something. Yesterday, while eating, the tiny screw from my glasses' nose pad came loose and fell off. I searched everywhere at home but couldn't...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
If you are concerned about the ingestion of foreign objects or are experiencing difficulties swallowing, abdominal pain, or other related issues, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation for confirmation.[Read More] Swallowed a Small Screw? Symptoms and What to Do Next
Understanding Eardrum Injuries: Symptoms, Self-Assessment, and Healing
Consultation regarding eardrum issues? Dear Dr. Cheng, Happy Lunar New Year! I have a concern: after taking a shower today, I accidentally inserted a cotton swab too deeply into my left ear canal, causing some pain. Although I immediately removed the cotton swab after feeling th...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, eardrum injuries often accompany ear bleeding and hearing loss. If you are concerned, you can visit an otolaryngologist for examination and confirmation. If the eardrum injury has a small perforation and there is no infection, it usually heals on its own. As for the absenc...[Read More] Understanding Eardrum Injuries: Symptoms, Self-Assessment, and Healing
Understanding Chronic Sinusitis: Symptoms, Treatments, and Concerns
excuse me? Hello Doctor, I apologize for the lengthy message, but I wanted to provide clear details for better assessment. I rarely catch colds and have no allergies, but starting in October, I began experiencing cold-like symptoms such as coughing, nasal congestion, and phlegm. ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, since a CT scan has already been scheduled, it is unclear whether there are issues such as chronic sinusitis that can be clearly identified on the scan. For now, you can continue using nasal irrigation and nasal spray to manage your symptoms, which generally do not affect ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Sinusitis: Symptoms, Treatments, and Concerns
Understanding Ear Pressure and Tinnitus: Causes and Solutions
The ears feel stuffy and swollen, and there is a popping sound when swallowing? Hello Doctor: Since the end of last year (around December), I have been experiencing a faint ringing in my left ear, and I hear a popping sound when I yawn or swallow. During my first visit to a clini...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
1. Eustachian tube dysfunction may cause tinnitus. 2. If you have already been examined at the hospital and no significant abnormalities were found, you may start by adjusting your lifestyle habits or addressing nasal allergies. 3. Eustachian tube dysfunction is often associated ...[Read More] Understanding Ear Pressure and Tinnitus: Causes and Solutions
Using a Colleague's Headphones with Eczema: Infection Risks?
Shared a colleague's headphones and have eczema in the ear? Due to a sudden work requirement, I had to borrow a pair of over-ear headphones from a colleague since I didn't have my own. However, I currently have eczema that hasn't healed yet. I would like to know if...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the likelihood of infection is generally low. However, if you have concerns or notice any changes in your skin, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation for confirmation.[Read More] Using a Colleague's Headphones with Eczema: Infection Risks?
Understanding Nasal Discomfort: Causes and Treatment Options
Nasal foreign body sensation Hello doctor, I have been feeling a painful sensation inside my nose for the past couple of days. Later, when I looked in the mirror, I noticed a white bump inside my nostril that looks like a pimple. Could you please tell me what this is? What is its...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, it is common for it to be inflammation or a cyst. If it persists and does not resolve, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for examination and treatment.[Read More] Understanding Nasal Discomfort: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Persistent Tinnitus: When Sounds Become Disturbing
Auditory hallucinations are recurring? Hello, doctor. I have tinnitus, but recently, for the past month, it has suddenly changed to the sound of someone chanting. High-frequency music and other music keep repeating in my ears, and the volume gets louder after I wake up at night. ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if the hearing test shows no significant abnormalities, tinnitus is often associated with symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia. It is recommended to continue monitoring and treatment with a psychiatrist.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Tinnitus: When Sounds Become Disturbing
Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Worry and Seek Medical Advice
Neck-related issues? Hello Dr. Zheng, I would like to ask a few questions: A few days ago, I noticed several small lumps on my neck, located at the junction of my neck and head, slightly to the right of the center when I tilt my chin down. When I visited a traditional Chinese med...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
If you are concerned, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngology clinic for examination and confirmation.[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Worry and Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Tongue Bumps and Soft Palate Cysts: When to Seek Surgery
There are small hard lumps near the tip of the tongue, and a small cyst on the soft palate? Hello Doctor: This week, I suddenly developed a small hard lump on my tongue, located in the area marked in the picture with a slight black spot. I have already seen an ENT specialist and ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, 1. If there is a small tumor on the tongue, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation for a clinical assessment. If a biopsy is necessary, it is typically performed under local anesthesia and can be handled as an outpatient procedure. 2. This procedure is similar to a ton...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Bumps and Soft Palate Cysts: When to Seek Surgery