Base of the tongue, Otolaryngology FAQ

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Understanding Lingual Papillae: Normal Variations or HPV Concerns?

Lingual base protrusion I'm sorry, but I can't access external links. However, I can help answer your questions based on the information you provide. Please describe your symptoms or concerns in detail, and I'll do my best to assist you.


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
1. Commonly, the circumvallate papillae at the base of the tongue may be observed; if there are no symptoms, monitoring is sufficient. If there are concerns, you may visit an otolaryngologist for examination and confirmation. 2. An elevated body temperature is often associated wi...

[Read More] Understanding Lingual Papillae: Normal Variations or HPV Concerns?


Understanding Pain Near the Base of the Tongue: Causes and Solutions

Pain near the base of the tongue? Hello Doctor, I am #209313. I apologize for bothering you again. After our last consultation on June 19, I suddenly noticed that the pain went away a couple of days later. However, yesterday, June 29, I suddenly started feeling pain again. I'...


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, the cause cannot be determined. Generally, if symptoms persist for more than a week, it is recommended to see an otolaryngologist for an examination.

[Read More] Understanding Pain Near the Base of the Tongue: Causes and Solutions


Understanding Throat and Sinus Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello, doctor? I would like to ask about something I have noticed at the back of my tongue, near my throat. There are small, lump-like formations that I cannot see myself, but sometimes when I cough or spit up phlegm, I can see these lump-like structures that resemble pus-filled ...


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, the base of the tongue contains circumvallate papillae and numerous lymphoid tissues. If you are concerned about any lesions at the base of the tongue or issues such as sinusitis, you should first visit an otolaryngology clinic for an examination. If there are any concerns...

[Read More] Understanding Throat and Sinus Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help


Unexplained Pink Bumps on Tongue: What You Need to Know

Sudden appearance of pink bumps at the back of the tongue? I usually scrape my tongue, but recently I noticed some painless bumps growing deeper on it. I'm concerned about wasting medical resources, so I wanted to ask first, but I'm not sure how to send pictures. The bu...


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Commonly, this can be due to lymphoid tissue at the base of the tongue or circumvallate papillae. If you are concerned, you can visit an otolaryngology clinic for examination and confirmation.

[Read More] Unexplained Pink Bumps on Tongue: What You Need to Know


Understanding Lymph Node Swelling and Nasopharyngitis Symptoms

Is there a possibility of developing nasopharyngeal carcinoma? Hello Doctor: In December, I noticed swelling of about three lymph nodes on the right side of my neck (they are palpable, with one being larger, approximately 1.5 cm, located in the upper neck). After an ultrasound, t...


Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, 1. My lymph nodes have become larger and more numerous. Is this related to fever and infection? > Based on the description, this is a very likely cause. 2. Is thick yellow phlegm or pus in the nasopharynx really rare? I researched nasopharyngitis and found it to be q...

[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling and Nasopharyngitis Symptoms


Why Lying Flat Affects Breathing: Insights on Sleep and Allergies

Difficulty breathing while lying flat? I have severe nasal allergies and post-nasal drip, making it difficult for me to sleep. In recent years, I've noticed that whenever I lie flat on my back to sleep, my nasal passages narrow, and I start snoring and have trouble breathing...


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, your symptoms may be related to sleep apnea. Common factors could include airway obstruction, such as narrowing in the nasal passages, oropharynx, or at the base of the tongue, or insufficient muscle tone in the oropharynx. It is recommended to visit a hospital's otol...

[Read More] Why Lying Flat Affects Breathing: Insights on Sleep and Allergies


Understanding Da Vinci Tongue Reduction Surgery: Risks and Benefits

[Language Issue] Could you please explain the Da Vinci tongue reduction surgery? Hello, Doctor. I was previously diagnosed with moderate obstructive sleep apnea, which was later found to be caused by enlarged base of the tongue. I have been using a CPAP machine for a while, but I...


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, the Da Vinci tongue reduction surgery primarily aims to reduce the lymphatic and muscular tissue at the base of the tongue to improve obstructive sleep apnea. Potential complications may include postoperative bleeding, swelling affecting the airway, and difficulty swallowi...

[Read More] Understanding Da Vinci Tongue Reduction Surgery: Risks and Benefits


Understanding Tongue Pain: Causes and Concerns in ENT Health

Tongue issues? Hello doctor, I would like to inquire about a persistent dull pain at the base of my tongue, without any obvious ulcers. The pain is located along the line at the back of my throat. This discomfort has been ongoing for three weeks. I visited an oral specialist on A...


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Commonly associated with chronic inflammation, related to post-nasal drip, gastroesophageal reflux, or other chronic irritations. If the pain persists without improvement, it is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist for examination. A purple line under the taste buds at the ...

[Read More] Understanding Tongue Pain: Causes and Concerns in ENT Health


Understanding Breathing Difficulties: Causes and Solutions

Respiratory issues Hello Doctor: Since around January of this year, I have been experiencing episodes of breathlessness, sometimes feeling like I am about to suffocate. For instance, when I walk for a while and then stop, I suddenly feel like my airway is blocked for a second or ...


Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, regarding the aforementioned symptoms, you may consider consulting an otolaryngologist or a pulmonologist for further relevant examinations such as nasopharyngoscopy or polysomnography.

[Read More] Understanding Breathing Difficulties: Causes and Solutions


Managing Enlarged Tongue Base: Solutions and Concerns for Sleep Apnea

What are the solutions for an enlarged base of the tongue? Hello, doctor. Last year, I underwent an examination and found that I have a level 2 obstruction in the retrolingual space during sleep, while the rest were rated 0. I often have poor sleep and experience light sleep. My ...


Dr. Li Jiaxuan Reply:
The tongue is a regenerative tissue, and it is normal for it to grow back. Using braces is another option. Wishing you peace and safety.

[Read More] Managing Enlarged Tongue Base: Solutions and Concerns for Sleep Apnea


Understanding PET Scan Results: What to Do When You Feel a Throat Lump

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Report Issues Hello, Dr. Li. I have been experiencing a sensation of a foreign body and sharp pain in my oral and pharyngeal walls, which becomes particularly noticeable when swallowing saliva. There is also sharp pain and a foreign body sensati...


Dr. Li Jiaxuan Reply:
It is recommended to visit the ENT department at the hospital where the PET scan is conducted, as they should be able to provide answers. The accuracy of PET scans is very high, but it does not reach 100%. Wishing you safety and well-being.

[Read More] Understanding PET Scan Results: What to Do When You Feel a Throat Lump


Persistent Throat Discomfort: Seeking Answers for Ongoing Symptoms

Oral and throat issues? Hello Dr. Li, I previously mentioned my symptoms on the left side of my oral cavity and throat, including a foreign body sensation and sharp pain in the pharyngeal wall and the base of my left tongue. There is a slight feeling of inflammation, and in one a...


Dr. Li Jiaxuan Reply:
Positron emission tomography (PET) has a higher accuracy, but MRI is also quite accurate; however, every examination has its limitations. Wishing you safety and health.

[Read More] Persistent Throat Discomfort: Seeking Answers for Ongoing Symptoms


Understanding Throat Issues: Concerns About MRI and ENT Evaluations

Throat issues Hello Dr. Zheng, I have been experiencing a sensation of foreign body and pain in my oral and pharyngeal walls, as well as a sharp pain and foreign body sensation near the left base of my tongue. Additionally, I have had inflammatory symptoms with intermittent pain ...


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: Online consultations cannot replace in-person clinical visits. If you have any concerns, it is recommended to consult directly with a clinical physician for a detailed discussion. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Department of Oto...

[Read More] Understanding Throat Issues: Concerns About MRI and ENT Evaluations


Understanding Throat Discomfort: Insights from ENT Specialists

Throat issues Hello Dr. Li, thank you for your response. Let me first describe my current symptoms. It has been four months since my surgery, and I have been experiencing discomfort in the left side of my soft palate and the area around the left base of my tongue, with a sensatio...


Dr. Li Jiaxuan Reply:
It is recommended to go to a medical center for narrow band imaging to examine the submucosa for any issues. After all, the discomfort you are experiencing may vary depending on your posture (open mouth or closed mouth). Once a clear assessment is made, you can decide whether an ...

[Read More] Understanding Throat Discomfort: Insights from ENT Specialists


Understanding Persistent Throat Discomfort: Causes and Solutions

Throat issues Hello Doctor, I would like to ask for your advice. I have been experiencing a sensation of a foreign body and sharp pain in my throat for over three months (it was slightly milder three months ago). Currently, the symptoms include inflammation and pulsation at the b...


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: If the hospital has arranged for the relevant examinations, please be patient and wait. If you have any concerns, you may return for a follow-up appointment for further evaluation. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Ot...

[Read More] Understanding Persistent Throat Discomfort: Causes and Solutions


Understanding Pain and Black Spots at the Base of the Tongue

Pain at the base of the tongue with the presence of black spots? About a week ago, I suddenly felt pain at the base of my left tongue. After looking in the mirror, I noticed a black spot at the base of my tongue, and there were also some protrusions on the sides and above it. Add...


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, the dark spots may be surface blood vessels. If the ulcer has not improved after more than two weeks or if the dark spots continue to enlarge, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for examination. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Direct...

[Read More] Understanding Pain and Black Spots at the Base of the Tongue


Understanding Throat Issues: Post-Surgery Complications and Concerns

Throat issues Hello Dr. Lee, I consulted with you two years ago when I brought my child in, and I hope you remember me. I am currently experiencing some symptoms that are quite concerning, and I would like your assistance in analyzing them. Previously, I had chronic inflammation ...


Dr. Li Jiaxuan Reply:
The area at the back of the tongue near the throat consists of the lingual lymphoid tissue and tonsils. Inflammation in this area can lead to a sensation of swelling. After surgery, it usually takes about three months for the sensation to completely subside, so please do not worr...

[Read More] Understanding Throat Issues: Post-Surgery Complications and Concerns


Understanding Post-Tonsillectomy Throat Discomfort and Concerns

Oral issues Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you again. I would like to ask for your help regarding my condition. It has been four months since I underwent a bilateral tonsillectomy, and during this time, I have been experiencing discomfort, particularly in the left palato...


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, if the clinical physician has examined you and found no obvious issues, you can generally feel reassured. However, if you still have concerns about other abnormalities, you may consider opting for a self-paid health check, including an MRI of the head and neck and a whole-...

[Read More] Understanding Post-Tonsillectomy Throat Discomfort and Concerns


Understanding Throat Issues: Diagnosing Cysts and Other Concerns

Throat issues Hello Doctor, I previously inquired about the examination methods for a hyoid cyst. I have been experiencing a severe sensation of a foreign body in my throat, along with sharp pain when swallowing saliva. Three months ago, I underwent a bilateral tonsillectomy and ...


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: A thyroglossal duct cyst typically appears as a swelling in the center of the neck. If a cyst is present, it can usually be detected by ultrasound. If you are concerned, you may first visit a nearby hospital for an examination, or return to your original hospital for furth...

[Read More] Understanding Throat Issues: Diagnosing Cysts and Other Concerns


Understanding Throat Discomfort: Common Causes and When to Seek Help

Oral issues Hello Doctor, I have previously inquired about a severe sensation of a foreign body in my throat, but I do not experience difficulty swallowing; the sensation just persists. I used my hand to feel the back of my tongue near the throat and noticed many protrusions at t...


Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: The protrusion at the base of the tongue may be a circumvallate papilla, which can generally be observed during an endoscopic examination. If the clinician does not find any significant issues, it is mostly normal tissue of the tongue base. If you are concerned, you may vi...

[Read More] Understanding Throat Discomfort: Common Causes and When to Seek Help


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