Can Ants Crawl into Your Ear? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Can small ants crawl into the ear? Hello, doctor. I felt like there was an ant on my right cheek just now. When I went to the bathroom to check, I didn't see anything, but during the process, I smelled a peculiar odor that ants have. I'm not sure if I accidentally kille...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. The smell you are detecting is likely the odor of formic acid, which indicates that the ants are probably dead. 2. If there were ants in your ear, you would typically experience a sensation of foreign body presence and itching. Since it seems that they have not entered,...[Read More] Can Ants Crawl into Your Ear? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Oral Ulcers: Concerns and Treatments Explained
Consultation with a doctor? Hello Dr. Hong, I visited the ENT department at a large hospital because I had taken cold medicine from a general clinic three times, but I still felt pain on the right side of my throat. Yesterday, I noticed a white spot on the inner membrane of my mo...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Currently, ENT clinics in Taiwan should be following standard disinfection procedures, so there should be no risk of contracting COVID-19 from this. 2. The color changes you described in the mucous membranes are basic variations associated with mucosal inflammation,...[Read More] Understanding Oral Ulcers: Concerns and Treatments Explained
Three Common Health Concerns to Discuss with Your Doctor
Three questions to ask the doctor? Hello, I have been observing my body recently and have three areas I would like to consult a doctor about. First, I noticed a cord-like structure extending from my scrotum, but my testicles are not evenly positioned in the center. Is this normal...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It is normal for a healthy individual's testicles to vary in size and position; this is completely normal, so there is no need to worry. 2. A pneumothorax typically presents with severe chest pain and shortness of breath. Based on your description, it is unlike...[Read More] Three Common Health Concerns to Discuss with Your Doctor
Understanding Throat Issues: Pain, Mucus, and Anxiety Explained
Throat issues Hello Doctor, I have a lot of nasal discharge and I feel some pain on the left side of my throat or tonsil, which appears to be larger than the right side. I visited an ENT specialist today, and the doctor said there is no significant inflammation and prescribed me ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing symptoms of a cold or allergies, which may have led to throat inflammation and discomfort. If you have already been examined by an otolaryngologist, it is likely just a simple inflammatory condition. If you have ...[Read More] Understanding Throat Issues: Pain, Mucus, and Anxiety Explained
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Its Possible Causes
Slightly elevated body temperature over a prolonged period? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing slightly elevated body temperature since before my vacation, particularly feeling uncomfortable when it reaches around 37.5 to 37.8 degrees Celsius, while my usual temperature is ab...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. If you are experiencing unexplained elevated body temperature or mild fever and have already consulted the specialties mentioned in your message without finding a solution, it would indeed be advisable to visit a Rheumatology and Immunology depa...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever and Its Possible Causes
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Allergies and Sinusitis Connection
Gastrointestinal issues Hello Doctor, two weeks ago I had my wisdom teeth extracted, and the dentist mentioned that I might develop sinusitis because the wisdom teeth are located close to the sinuses. A few days later, I started experiencing nasal congestion, eye allergies, nasal...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on your description, the respiratory symptoms may be indicative of an upper respiratory infection (commonly known as a cold) or allergies. This aspect should not have a direct correlation with gastrointestinal bloating; however, there may be an indirect relationship. For in...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Allergies and Sinusitis Connection
Does Surgery for Right Radius Fracture Affect White Blood Cell Count?
Will surgery for a comminuted fracture of the right hand affect white blood cell count? Hello doctor, I was in a car accident last year and suffered a comminuted fracture in my right arm. The doctor performed surgery on the same day, but since I didn't know my blood type, th...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello: There are many reasons for an increase in white blood cell count, with the most common being infection and inflammation. Other common causes include allergies or hematologic malignancies. In rare cases, temporary increases can occur due to intense exercise or bathing. Base...[Read More] Does Surgery for Right Radius Fracture Affect White Blood Cell Count?
Understanding HIV Testing and Symptoms: Your Questions Answered
HIV testing issues? Hello Dr. Hong, I had an encounter with a woman on November 9th last year. About two to three days later, I developed a low-grade fever, sore throat, and a rash. After taking cold medication, I improved. As of today, I have not experienced any other acute HIV ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, in response to your questions, I will address them in several parts: 1. Regarding the possibility of HIV infection, it is recommended to undergo a second screening test at three months to confirm that there is no infection. 2. Concerning the skin rash, I am unsure about...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing and Symptoms: Your Questions Answered
Is There a Link Between Chronic Urticaria and Helicobacter Pylori?
Is there a relationship between chronic urticaria and Helicobacter pylori? Hello Doctor: I have been struggling with chronic urticaria recently. A physician I consulted earlier mentioned that it might be stress-induced urticaria, so I stopped taking medication and adjusted my lif...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, various types of infections, including Helicobacter pylori, have been confirmed to have a direct or indirect relationship with urticaria. However, allergic reactions are usually caused by multiple factors, making it challenging to definitively establish that Helicobacter p...[Read More] Is There a Link Between Chronic Urticaria and Helicobacter Pylori?
Understanding Headaches and Allergies: The Connection to Dental Issues
Headache, allergy issues? Several years ago, I developed a cavity in my upper right molar that was difficult to clean. The decay was quite deep, and the dentist mentioned that fragments had lodged into the gum tissue. Initially, my headaches were caused by the dental issue, and I...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, I need to address several points: 1. The term "bacteria entering the bloodstream" typically refers to instances during dental cleanings or surgical procedures. In general, unless there is a dental procedure performed, bacteria from cav...[Read More] Understanding Headaches and Allergies: The Connection to Dental Issues
Allergies and Excessive Sleepiness: Understanding Your Symptoms
Allergy + Drowsiness Recently, I have been experiencing multiple physical abnormalities, including dry mouth, dry eyes, and itchy dry skin (I have a history of urticaria, but this sensation feels different. Only specific areas of my hands and feet are dry and itchy, and there are...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here is the response to your question: 1. You have noticeable symptoms of dryness, which may be related to issues with your immune system, particularly Sjögren's syndrome or related autoimmune diseases. 2. It is recommended that you first c...[Read More] Allergies and Excessive Sleepiness: Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Drug Allergies: Symptoms, Testing, and Management
Suspected drug allergy Hello Doctor: Since around the third grade of elementary school, I have experienced prolonged itching on my skin after taking medication for colds from an ear, nose, and throat specialist, although there are no visible symptoms (such as rashes or redness). ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here is a brief summary of your questions: 1. Chronic itching: It is advisable to consult your dermatologist first. If a clear answer is still not obtained, you may consider visiting an allergy, immunology, and rheumatology clinic. The physicia...[Read More] Understanding Drug Allergies: Symptoms, Testing, and Management
Understanding Oral Heat Issues: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Oral heat issues? I would like to ask the doctor about my situation. We replaced a broken air conditioner at home, and the new one initially made a buzzing sound. Additionally, I was unsure if the strange smell was from the new unit or from PVC, which caused me to have trouble sl...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is unlikely that the symptoms are caused by acid reflux due to air conditioning. The most probable causes are neurological issues or stress. I recommend seeing a neurologist for further evaluation. If the neurological examination is normal, it...[Read More] Understanding Oral Heat Issues: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Understanding B Vitamins: Allergies, Kidney Health, and Monitoring Needs
Questions related to B vitamins? Hello, Doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing glossitis and have been taking B vitamins. After taking them, I sometimes feel a general sensation of heat, and sometimes I do not. Is this an allergic reaction? Could it cause kidney damage? Addit...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Taking any medication or dietary supplements can lead to a variety of non-specific bodily reactions, so I'm not certain if your symptoms are an allergic reaction. However, most allergic reactions typically present with itching and skin ras...[Read More] Understanding B Vitamins: Allergies, Kidney Health, and Monitoring Needs
Understanding Dizziness: Causes and Solutions After a Cold
Dizziness issues? Hello, doctor... Since I caught a cold and had a fever on the 23rd of last month, I've been feeling dizzy, heavy-headed, and lethargic, constantly wanting to sleep. After more than two weeks, the cold symptoms and dizziness improved, but shortly after the d...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Anonymous: 1. Dizziness can generally be categorized into four types: vertigo, presyncope, disequilibrium, and lightheadedness. Research statistics indicate that the most common diagnosis among these is vertigo. 2. The causes of dizziness are numerous. For example: ort...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness: Causes and Solutions After a Cold
Understanding Facial Swelling After Facial Nerve Paralysis: What to Do Next?
During the recovery phase of facial nerve paralysis, swelling of the eyes and face may occur? Hello Doctor, I experienced facial nerve paralysis on the right side of my face on August 3, 2017. At that time, my right eye's vision, hearing, and taste were all affected. Althoug...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. The unilateral lower limb swelling and pain (right leg) should not be related to the facial nerve paralysis on the same side, nor should it be associated with renal dysfunction (as renal dysfunction typically leads to...[Read More] Understanding Facial Swelling After Facial Nerve Paralysis: What to Do Next?
Understanding Unusually Slow Recovery from Cold Symptoms
The recovery from a cold is slower than usual? I usually have nasal allergies, often experiencing nasal congestion and runny nose. Besides that, I rarely catch colds and do not take any medications regularly. Initially, one morning I woke up with sudden pain near my tonsils, and ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: <Regarding whether there is insufficient immunity or other underlying conditions? How to check and improve?> A: 1. You can refer to the following website: https://www.femh.org.tw/epaperadmin/viewarticle.aspx?ID=49672. It is recommended to maintain a regular ro...[Read More] Understanding Unusually Slow Recovery from Cold Symptoms
Understanding IgG and IgG4 Abnormalities: Lifelong Medication and Health Implications
IgG: 1750 and IgG4: 208? Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you, but I have some questions. Recently, after several days of staying up late, I have been feeling very fatigued, experiencing dry mouth and reduced saliva. Therefore, I visited an oral surgeon, but they did not ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I will address your questions as follows: 1. You may have IgG4-related disease, which has symptoms similar to Sjögren's syndrome. It may require long-term medication, but there might be possibilities for dose reduction or discontinuation. ...[Read More] Understanding IgG and IgG4 Abnormalities: Lifelong Medication and Health Implications
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Breathing Issues: Which Specialist to See?
What are the issues related to the two symptoms, and which department should I visit? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing some tightness and discomfort in my upper abdomen recently, but it doesn't last long. The symptoms seem to be just tightness and pain, and although I ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Based on the symptoms you described, the most likely causes of abdominal pain are gastroenteritis, peptic ulcer, and stress. To confirm the diagnosis, an upper endoscopy may be necessary. As for the difficulty in breathing, allergies could indeed be a primary cause, but it may be...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Breathing Issues: Which Specialist to See?
Why Does Drinking Soy Milk Cause Sore Throat? Allergies Explained
Sore throat after drinking soy milk? I would like to ask why my throat hurts every time I drink soy milk. Is it due to an allergy? I also experience pain when I drink unsweetened soy milk.
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Soy milk is a mild beverage, but if you experience a sore throat while consuming it, please consider consulting an otolaryngologist to check for any mucosal damage. After that, you may want to consider issues related to immune function or aller...[Read More] Why Does Drinking Soy Milk Cause Sore Throat? Allergies Explained