Understanding Dry Throat: Allergies or Something Else?
My throat is very dry? Hello Doctor: I am currently in the United States, and accessing healthcare is not very convenient. I would like to request your assistance. For the past two or three days, I have been waking up with a very dry throat, feeling as if it is being constricted,...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: A dry throat may be related to mouth breathing during sleep, such as snoring, or gastroesophageal reflux. If there are no obvious symptoms like frequent sneezing or a runny nose, it may not necessarily be an allergic reaction. Taking antihistamines could potentially lead t...[Read More] Understanding Dry Throat: Allergies or Something Else?
Do You Really Need to Pick Your Nose? Understanding Nasal Hygiene
Is it necessary to frequently pick your nose? I really love picking my nose. In the past, I often picked until I bled. Now, due to the pandemic, I've been taught not to touch my mouth, nose, or eyes carelessly, so I've resisted the urge to pick my nose. After a while, I...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, under normal circumstances, the nose has a self-cleaning function, and there is no need to deliberately clean the inside of the nasal cavity with hands or cotton swabs every day, as this may lead to inflammation or infection. It is sufficient to clean the external area wit...[Read More] Do You Really Need to Pick Your Nose? Understanding Nasal Hygiene
Persistent Throat Foreign Body Sensation: Causes and Next Steps
Sensation of a foreign body in the throat? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing a sensation of a foreign body in my throat for over a year. I previously visited an otolaryngologist who performed a nasopharyngoscopy, which revealed allergic rhinitis and post-nasal drip, but no ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: The common sensation of a foreign body in the throat is primarily related to post-nasal drip or gastroesophageal reflux. If a nasopharyngoscopy or gastroscopy has already been performed, the possibility of a tumor can be ruled out. It is recommended to start by improving a...[Read More] Persistent Throat Foreign Body Sensation: Causes and Next Steps
Could It Be an Insect in My Ear? Understanding Ear Noises and Symptoms
I’m not sure if a bug flew into my ear? Hello, Doctor. This morning when I was getting up, I suddenly heard a sound in my right ear that resembled rustling or fluttering. Since I wasn't wearing my glasses, it felt like there was a bug flying around. I instinctively touched m...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If you are concerned or continue to experience unusual sounds, you can visit a general otolaryngology clinic to check for any foreign objects. Wishing you safety and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, M...[Read More] Could It Be an Insect in My Ear? Understanding Ear Noises and Symptoms
Understanding Throat Polyps and Healing: When to Seek ENT Care
There is a bump in the throat, and after the hole heals, it appears white? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about a small polyp that has developed deep in the right lower part of my throat, close to the base of the tongue and next to the left side of the right molars. It doesn&...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Currently, it is not possible to determine what tissue has been felt. If you are concerned, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist for confirmation. As for the white appearance of the healing wound post-surgery, it is usually normal fibrous tissue resulting from the ...[Read More] Understanding Throat Polyps and Healing: When to Seek ENT Care
Swallowed Something Hard: Should I Worry About a Fish Bone?
I am not sure if it is a case of accidentally swallowing a fishbone? Hello, Dr. Du: During dinner, I suddenly felt like I swallowed something hard while it was passing through my esophagus or throat. However, by the time I wanted to bring it back up, I had already swallowed it. I...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If a foreign object is lodged in the esophagus, it usually prevents eating and is accompanied by swallowing pain. If there are currently no obvious symptoms, you can monitor yourself for now. However, if you experience the aforementioned symptoms or if the pain continues t...[Read More] Swallowed Something Hard: Should I Worry About a Fish Bone?
Understanding Salivary Gland Tumors: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Lump issue? Salivary gland tumor? Hello Doctor, today I noticed a swelling near my cheek, close to the parotid gland and jaw area. It is movable and painless, and I can feel it. I went to the hematology-oncology department, where the doctor arranged a CT scan with contrast. After...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if there are no obvious symptoms but the issue has not resolved, you may return to the original hospital to follow up with the same physician or a physician from the same department in three months for further evaluation. It is better to compare reports from the same hospi...[Read More] Understanding Salivary Gland Tumors: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Chronic Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Dietary Impact
Tonsillar hypertrophy Dear Doctor, For the past two years, I have experienced swollen tonsils every summer, lasting about a month each time. Both sides are swollen (one side is larger than the other), but I have not had a fever or cold symptoms. The swelling is not painful, but...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: The symptoms may indicate chronic tonsillitis. It is recommended to drink plenty of water and gargle, and to reduce the intake of spicy or fried foods. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospita...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Dietary Impact
Understanding Nasal Congestion and Blood-Streaked Mucus: When to Seek Further Evaluation
One side of the nose is more congested, and there is sometimes a slight presence of blood in the nasal discharge? Hello Doctor: Two weeks ago, I experienced slight nasal obstruction on the right side, and sometimes there were traces of blood in my nasal discharge. I also have int...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if an endoscopic examination of the nasopharynx shows no obvious tumors, nasopharyngeal carcinoma can be initially ruled out. However, if symptoms persist, you should return for a follow-up visit to check for other potential issues such as bleeding points in the nasal cavi...[Read More] Understanding Nasal Congestion and Blood-Streaked Mucus: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Nasopharyngeal Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Suspected nasopharyngeal carcinoma? Hello doctor, about two weeks ago I discovered a lump in the lower side of my neck. It is tender to the touch, and over time the lump has not increased in size and has slowly decreased. As of now, the lump is still present, and the tenderness i...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Currently, it is not possible to make a determination; we must wait for the aspiration results to assess and treat. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and We...[Read More] Understanding Nasopharyngeal Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns
Whistling Nose Sounds: Causes and Solutions for Nasal Congestion
Whistling sound from the nose? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a whistling sound when I breathe through my nose while lying down to sleep, which has been quite bothersome for about two months. I also have some nasal congestion. Occasionally using a nasal spray helps allevi...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: The whistling sound from the nose is primarily due to a narrowed nasal cavity, causing airflow to produce sound. This is often associated with a deviated septum or hypertrophy of the inferior turbinates. If you are experiencing long-term nasal congestion, it is advisable t...[Read More] Whistling Nose Sounds: Causes and Solutions for Nasal Congestion
Unilateral Tonsil Swelling Without Discomfort: What Could It Mean?
Unilateral tonsillar enlargement without discomfort? Hello, doctor. Two weeks ago, I noticed that my right tonsil was particularly swollen, resembling a small ball, and its surface was not smooth, but I have no discomfort, and there are no lumps in my neck. (The left tonsil is al...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: If there is no obvious pain or if you notice a persistent ulcer on the tonsils that has not healed, you may first observe it yourself. It is commonly benign tonsillar enlargement. If you are concerned, you can seek medical evaluation for confirmation or schedule regular fo...[Read More] Unilateral Tonsil Swelling Without Discomfort: What Could It Mean?
Understanding Enlarged Tonsils After Inflammation: What You Need to Know
Tonsil problems Hello Doctor: Last week I had tonsillitis, but this week I have recovered. My throat is no longer swollen, painful, or red. However, it seems that my right tonsil is slightly larger than the left one. I would like to know if there is still inflammation present. Pr...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, it is normal for the size of the tonsils on both sides to vary slightly. If there is no significant pain or discomfort, you can monitor the situation yourself. If you are concerned, you may visit an otolaryngology clinic for further evaluation. Wishing you peace and good h...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Tonsils After Inflammation: What You Need to Know
Understanding Ear Congestion and Tinnitus After Cancer Treatment
Left ear feels clogged with tinnitus, and the pitch of sounds heard in both ears is different? Hello Doctor, at the end of last year, I was indirectly diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma due to fluid accumulation in my left ear, and I underwent two months of radiation therapy...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, it is common to experience dysfunction of the Eustachian tube, which can lead to ear fullness or fluid accumulation in the ear. It is advisable to seek medical evaluation to determine if drainage or the placement of tympanos...[Read More] Understanding Ear Congestion and Tinnitus After Cancer Treatment
Understanding Tinnitus: When to Worry and When to Relax
Tinnitus issues Hello Doctor, I suddenly heard a high-pitched sound in my left ear for about 30 seconds to less than a minute, and afterwards my ear felt a bit itchy. Although I am fine now, I would like to know if this is a cause for concern. About four months ago, I experienced...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Temporary tinnitus is usually benign. If you have already had your hearing checked and no significant abnormalities were found, you can start by self-monitoring. Poor sleep and high stress levels can both trigger tinnitus, so it may be helpful to readjust your daily routin...[Read More] Understanding Tinnitus: When to Worry and When to Relax
Understanding Papilloma in the Throat: Post-Surgery Care and Concerns
Laryngeal papillomatosis Hello Doctor, last week I discovered a lump on my left tonsil and underwent surgery for its removal. The biopsy results indicated a papilloma, and the cytological examination showed no abnormalities. 1. It is now the 9th day post-surgery, and I have bee...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Generally, hoarseness is less common after surgery. If it persists without improvement, you may return for an earlier follow-up appointment for further evaluation by your physician. Additionally, papillomas are associated with the human papillomavirus, and it is indeed adv...[Read More] Understanding Papilloma in the Throat: Post-Surgery Care and Concerns
Discomfort in Ear After MRI: Is It Related to the Procedure?
Discomfort in the ear after an MRI? Hello doctor, after my MRI today, I felt discomfort in my left ear, with a bit of a throbbing pain. I wore earplugs during the procedure, but it still seemed quite loud. Could this be caused by the MRI?
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: It is usually temporary. It is recommended to self-monitor first. If there is no improvement after one week, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist for an examination. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Department of Otolaryng...[Read More] Discomfort in Ear After MRI: Is It Related to the Procedure?
Understanding Persistent Enlarged Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Lymphadenopathy The lymph node behind my right ear has been persistently enlarged for 2 years. It feels smooth, is painless, and movable, with an elongated oval shape. It has not increased in size, and I have no other symptoms. Should I see a doctor? What could be causing the swe...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: Based on your current symptoms, it is likely a case of benign lymphadenopathy. You may start with self-observation, but if you are concerned, you can visit an otolaryngologist for an examination or arrange for an ultrasound. Wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Dr...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Enlarged Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Throat Discomfort: Allergies, Infections, or Something More?
Mold issues Doctor, I apologize for bothering you again. In addition to the itchiness in my throat, I also have a persistent sensation of something being stuck and phlegm. Should I continue to observe this for a while? Are there any foods or medications that can provide temporary...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, if there are no obvious tumors in the oral cavity and you are experiencing a sensation of a foreign body in the throat or a feeling of phlegm, the most common causes are gastroesophageal reflux or smoking. It is recommended to drink more water and reduce the intake of irri...[Read More] Understanding Throat Discomfort: Allergies, Infections, or Something More?
Understanding Post-Nasal Drip: Causes and Solutions for Relief
Post-nasal drip Hello doctor, I have been experiencing nasal congestion and post-nasal drip recently. I've been taking medication for almost a month, but it hasn't improved. I feel the mucus stuck between my nasal cavity and throat, and it's very uncomfortable when...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the symptoms may be related to allergic rhinitis or chronic sinusitis. If the symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist for examination. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Department of Otola...[Read More] Understanding Post-Nasal Drip: Causes and Solutions for Relief