Understanding COVID-19 Transmission Risks in the Workplace
Transmission routes of COVID-19 Hello Doctor: In the past week, several colleagues at my company have tested positive for COVID-19. The colleagues sitting directly behind me, who are facing away from me, have all tested positive, yet they continue to come to work. Among them, two...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, if your immune system is normal or you have been vaccinated, exposure to the virus does not necessarily lead to infection, and most likely, any resulting illness will be mild. It is recommended that if you have a fever accompanied by upper respiratory symptoms, you can per...[Read More] Understanding COVID-19 Transmission Risks in the Workplace
Throat Injury, Post-Nasal Drip, and Taste Changes: ENT Concerns Explained
Throat injury, post-nasal drip, illness-related taste disturbances? Hello, doctor. I have two questions I would like to ask: 1. In my research, I found that "hemoptysis" doesn't seem to be what I'm looking for. I would like to know if there are any medicatio...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, here are the responses to your questions: ### 1. Management of Throat Injury with Bleeding from Coughing Bleeding from the throat due to coughing may be caused by persistent coughing or chronic pharyngitis. Here are some recommendations: **Avoid Irritants**: Refrain from ...[Read More] Throat Injury, Post-Nasal Drip, and Taste Changes: ENT Concerns Explained
Concerns About Catching Viruses from Touching the Nose
Cold-related issues Hello doctor, today I accidentally touched the skin around my right nostril with my thumb while using a tissue to wipe my nose, after having used unwashed hands (which had touched the office computer and a backpack that came into contact with the bus seat). Im...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, if your immune system is functioning normally, you are unlikely to get infected. However, if you have symptoms, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for an examination.[Read More] Concerns About Catching Viruses from Touching the Nose
Understanding Sore Throat and Runny Nose: Is It a Cold or Allergies?
Sore throat and runny nose? I started coughing a few days ago, and my throat has been dry and itchy for about two to three days. Then I developed a fever, which subsided within a day. The day before the fever, I had severe nasal discharge that was watery and would run down on its...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, recently COVID-19, influenza, and various bacterial infections have become quite common. It is advisable to seek consultation with an otolaryngologist if symptoms persist.[Read More] Understanding Sore Throat and Runny Nose: Is It a Cold or Allergies?
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
Understanding Nasopharyngeal Issues: Antibiotics, GERD, and Mucus Color
Regarding nasopharyngeal issues? Hello Doctor: I have a history of sinusitis, so whenever I experience symptoms of a cold accompanied by sinusitis, I usually receive antibiotics from my ENT specialist, and I typically complete the course in about two weeks. Last September, after ...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, there are no absolute standard answers to your three questions. It is necessary to actually see the patient and provide recommendations based on their current condition. It is best to seek a direct consultation for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Nasopharyngeal Issues: Antibiotics, GERD, and Mucus Color
Understanding Throat Pain and Its Possible Link to Ear Infections
Suspected throat inflammation progressing to otitis media? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my sore throat, which has lasted for 4-5 days. I have been drinking warm beverages in between, but there has been no improvement. It hurts to swallow saliva and to talk, and I even...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, if you have persistent sore throat and fever, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist to rule out COVID-19, influenza, tonsillitis, or other diseases. Wishing you safety and good health. Ministry of Health and Welfare Taichung Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Throat Pain and Its Possible Link to Ear Infections
Understanding Tonsillitis Aftermath: Voice Loss and Ear Ringing Concerns
Complications of tonsillitis? Recently, after testing positive for COVID-19, I developed tonsillitis. Initially, I saw a doctor and took medication for three days, but it didn't seem to help much. I then switched to another clinic, but the medication still didn't seem e...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, the tinnitus issue in your left ear may be due to: 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction: This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over. 2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss. 3) ...[Read More] Understanding Tonsillitis Aftermath: Voice Loss and Ear Ringing Concerns
Understanding Odor Issues: When to Seek ENT Care After COVID-19
Olfactory issues Hello, I have been experiencing an unusual odor in my nasal cavity for the past few days (somewhat similar to grains), which becomes more pronounced when I eat. Two months ago, I had a brief cold, and after recovering, I experienced a similar situation (though th...
Dr. Li Jiaxuan Reply:
It is recommended to have an evaluation by an otolaryngologist to determine whether it is sinusitis or chronic rhinitis. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Odor Issues: When to Seek ENT Care After COVID-19
Understanding Non-Painful White or Yellow Patches on Tonsils
The tonsils have white (or yellow) patches, but there is no pain? Hello, Doctor. I had a case of purulent tonsillitis due to influenza at the beginning of June 2023 (which often happens whenever I get sick). After that, I was diagnosed with COVID-19 before fully recovering from t...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, regarding the conditions for tonsillectomy that you mentioned, they are generally as follows: 1) Enlarged tonsils causing respiratory issues or conditions such as sleep apnea; 2) Presence of malignant tumors; 3) Recurrent tonsillitis (as you mentioned). Internationally rec...[Read More] Understanding Non-Painful White or Yellow Patches on Tonsils
Understanding Post-COVID Symptoms: Yellow Nasal Discharge and Vasculitis Concerns
Post-nasal drip and vasculitis? Hello, doctor. About two weeks ago, I tested positive for COVID-19, and approximately four days ago, I suddenly developed numerous petechiae on my calves. I went to the hospital's dermatology department for an examination, where they performed...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, if all immune-related blood tests are normal and there is no history of rheumatologic or autoimmune diseases, along with no significant abnormalities found during the endoscopic examination, the likelihood of developing vasculitis is very low. It may be advisable to either...[Read More] Understanding Post-COVID Symptoms: Yellow Nasal Discharge and Vasculitis Concerns
Managing Persistent Throat Inflammation After COVID-19 Recovery
Recurrent throat inflammation after COVID-19? Hello Doctor: I originally wanted to make an appointment yesterday, but you were fully booked. I would like to ask about my condition. I tested positive for COVID-19 on June 2 and have been testing negative on rapid tests for about a ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, the recurring symptoms that have not improved may be related to your immune system not having fully recovered. In addition to medication treatment, it is important to enhance dietary adjustments (such as increasing water intake and reducing sweets) and to maintain a regula...[Read More] Managing Persistent Throat Inflammation After COVID-19 Recovery
Swallowing Difficulties After COVID-19: When to Seek Medical Help
Swallowing difficulties Hello doctor, after being diagnosed with COVID-19, I have been experiencing increasing difficulty swallowing food. By the fourth day, I was unable to swallow solid food. I initially thought this was due to throat ulcers, but today (the eighth day) I still ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
It is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist and a gastroenterologist for examination.[Read More] Swallowing Difficulties After COVID-19: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Tonsillitis After COVID-19: Why Your Doctor Prescribed Lobak and Bigacon
Tonsillitis Hello, doctor. I was diagnosed with COVID-19 last week, and after recovering, I have been experiencing a sensation of a foreign body on one side of my throat when swallowing. I used a flashlight to look at my throat and noticed that one side of my tonsil is slightly s...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, Lobak contains analgesic and muscle relaxant ingredients, which can be used to relieve symptoms such as sore throat or muscle soreness. Bigacon is a type of antacid used to alleviate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux or stomach pain caused by medication. If you have conc...[Read More] Understanding Tonsillitis After COVID-19: Why Your Doctor Prescribed Lobak and Bigacon
Long-Term Nasal Congestion: Causes, Treatments, and Dietary Considerations
Chronic nasal congestion issues? Hello Doctor, since I have been experiencing symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysfunction, I have had nasal congestion for the past seven years. During this time, I have also encountered some psychosomatic symptoms (such as palpitations, gastr...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, EPA has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects, which may help reduce nasal allergy reactions, or assist in maintaining a good mood and energy levels. It does not directly alleviate nasal congestion. You may consider using it for a period of time, such as three to six...[Read More] Long-Term Nasal Congestion: Causes, Treatments, and Dietary Considerations
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:
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
Struggling with Antibiotics: What to Do When Symptoms Persist?
What should I do if taking antibiotics has not improved my condition? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing nasal congestion and coughing since early September. Initially, I thought it was just a cold and decided to let it resolve on its own, so I didn't see a doctor right ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, Colabital and Vuflax are medications with similar active ingredients, differing only in their brand names. If symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to continue follow-up visits with an otolaryngologist or pulmonologist for treatment. Antibiotics generally d...[Read More] Struggling with Antibiotics: What to Do When Symptoms Persist?
Understanding Uvula Pain: Inflammation or Injury?
It appears to be inflammation, but it looks more like an injury? Two days ago, I tested positive for COVID-19. That night, I developed a fever and a sore throat, but at that time, the inflammation of my uvula was located at the lower part. After taking medication yesterday mornin...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, ulcers are commonly caused by inflammation. If there is no improvement, it is recommended to seek medical examination at an otolaryngology clinic after the isolation period is over.[Read More] Understanding Uvula Pain: Inflammation or Injury?
Understanding Nasal Tumor Biopsy Results: A Guide for Patients
Nasal cavity tumor biopsy report? Hello Dr. Zheng! Last week, my mother noticed blood in her nasal mucus and went to the ENT department for a consultation. The doctor performed an endoscopic examination and discovered a tumor in her nasal cavity. A biopsy was scheduled for the fo...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, the report indicates lymphoproliferation with no obvious malignant cell invasion. It is recommended to follow up with a consultation after the isolation period ends to review the report.[Read More] Understanding Nasal Tumor Biopsy Results: A Guide for Patients
Post-COVID Dizziness and Insomnia: When to Seek ENT Help?
Dizziness and insomnia? It has been two weeks since I tested negative for COVID-19, but I experience dizziness every day. When the dizziness feels intense, it's like being on a wave, making it difficult to think. When the dizziness is mild, it's more manageable. Additio...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, dizziness can have numerous potential causes: 1) If there is a dull pain in the left posterior part of the head -> it may suggest poor blood circulation in the head and neck. 2) If accompanied by ear fullness, ear pressure, or hearing loss -> it may indicate sudden s...[Read More] Post-COVID Dizziness and Insomnia: When to Seek ENT Help?