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:
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:
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:
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:
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:
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:
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?
Can Family Members Reinsert a Nasogastric Tube? Risks and Considerations
Nasogastric tube issues Can family members reinsert a nasogastric tube if it falls out? What problems could arise from reinserting it themselves? Thank you.
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, if the displacement is only slight, self-repositioning is usually not a major issue. However, if the displacement extends to the larynx, or if the patient has conditions such as ulcers or tumors in the esophagus or stomach, self-repositioning is not recommended. If the pat...[Read More] Can Family Members Reinsert a Nasogastric Tube? Risks and Considerations
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:
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
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:
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 Painful Bumps Near the Jaw: Possible Causes and Concerns
Near the cheeks and jawline (masseter muscle?) Hello Doctor, thank you for taking the time to address my question! About a week ago, I noticed a small movable lump near my masseter muscle (or medial pterygoid muscle? It's in the cheek area near my wisdom teeth), which was sl...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is most likely that the lymph nodes are swollen due to dental inflammation. However, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist if the symptoms persist.[Read More] Understanding Painful Bumps Near the Jaw: Possible Causes and Concerns
Swallowed a Small Screw? When to See an ENT or Gastroenterologist
Which department to consult for suspected ingestion? First of all, Happy New Year! Doctor, I apologize for bothering you! I would like to ask, yesterday while watching TV and eating, the nose pad on my glasses fell off because the screw came loose. I searched my house for a long ...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, although swallowing a screw usually does not get stuck in the throat, it is still advisable to first consult an otolaryngologist to confirm that there are no issues. If everything is clear, then a referral to a gastroenterologist can be made. If it is a metal screw, an X-r...[Read More] Swallowed a Small Screw? When to See an ENT or Gastroenterologist
Understanding Throat Issues: Coughing, Choking, and Possible Inflammation
Throat issues? Hello, doctor. When I press down on the area just below my Adam's apple, it triggers a cough. I often choke when drinking water, and after drinking, I tend to cough until I either expel clear phlegm or water, after which the coughing stops. There is no pain as...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, it is recommended that if symptoms persist, you should directly consult an otolaryngologist for a nasopharyngolaryngoscopy examination.[Read More] Understanding Throat Issues: Coughing, Choking, and Possible Inflammation
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
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:
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:
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:
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 Bronchial Issues and Nasal Turbinate Hypertrophy
Bronchial issues and turbinate hypertrophy? Hello Doctor, I experienced bronchial itching for a week last July, but I did not seek treatment at that time. After the symptoms disappeared, I developed other issues and consulted an otolaryngologist. Despite taking medication, I stil...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, the situation you described may be indicative of chronic pharyngitis. It is advisable to undergo laryngoscopy to rule out any masses and to consider pharmacological treatment. In addition to medication, daily lifestyle recommendations include avoiding lying down for two ho...[Read More] Understanding Bronchial Issues and Nasal Turbinate Hypertrophy
Understanding Nasal Septal Hematoma: Symptoms and Self-Assessment Guide
Nasal septal hematoma issues? Hello, Dr. Chi: I would like to ask about the issue of septal hematoma. I was playing basketball yesterday and got hit in the nose by an opponent's elbow. At the time, I only felt pain and did not have any nosebleed. After about half an hour, th...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to directly visit an otolaryngologist for a nasal endoscopy examination, which will provide a clear understanding of your condition. Wishing you peace and good health.[Read More] Understanding Nasal Septal Hematoma: Symptoms and Self-Assessment Guide
Understanding Recurrent Nosebleeds: Causes and Treatments
Nasal vestibule Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing recurrent nosebleeds since last Sunday. I recall having three or four episodes last week. One instance occurred early in the morning when I woke up, and there was blood around my right nostril. Another time was during lunch w...
Dr. Li Jiaxuan Reply:
Generally, it is important to first confirm whether there is a coagulation disorder through blood tests. Additionally, it is essential to check for mucosal or vascular injuries, as well as to identify any non-traumatic causes of bleeding. It is recommended to seek medical attenti...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Nosebleeds: Causes and Treatments
Conflicting Diagnoses: Understanding Ear Pain and Possible Conditions
Two doctors have provided inconsistent diagnoses, causing anxiety? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing pain when pressing on a spot three centimeters above the mastoid bone behind my right ear, extending three centimeters to the right. I first visited an ENT specialist who in...
Dr. Li Jiaxuan Reply:
Subcutaneous infection occurs deeper than fascial inflammation, specifically in the mastoid process. Mastoiditis often includes symptoms of ear inflammation such as hearing loss or ear discharge. Additionally, an X-ray examination can be performed. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Conflicting Diagnoses: Understanding Ear Pain and Possible Conditions