Understanding Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Neck: When to Seek Medical Attention
Cervical lymphadenopathy Hello, doctor. Yesterday I suddenly noticed that the lymph node on the left side of my neck has become more swollen and is a bit painful to the touch. There is a hard lump near my ear and two lumps in my neck, each about 1 cm in size. I have had the one n...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: Generally, if lymph nodes are tender, it is mostly due to inflammation, which may be caused by staying up late or lack of sleep. It is advisable to restore a regular routine, and most cases will resolve naturally. However, if the pain persists, accompanied by fever, or if ...[Read More] Understanding Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Neck: When to Seek Medical Attention
Occasional Blood-Streaked Phlegm: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation?
Occasionally, there are streaks of blood in the sputum? Hello, doctor. Sometimes I notice traces of blood in my saliva or phlegm, and I feel a dryness in my throat, but I do not have a cough. Both the nasal endoscopy and chest X-ray showed no abnormalities. The only issue is nasa...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, if both the nasal endoscopy and chest X-ray have shown no abnormalities, you can observe the situation for now. If the bleeding continues, you may discuss with your physician whether further examination is necessary. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-...[Read More] Occasional Blood-Streaked Phlegm: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation?
Understanding Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty: Procedure, Recovery, and Care Tips
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) Due to inflammation of the left tonsil and a benign tumor located behind it, there is swelling in the left side of the neck and cheek. The doctor has recommended performing uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) and indicated that a hospital stay of 2 t...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: The surgery is similar to a tonsillectomy, typically performed under general anesthesia. The procedure is conducted directly through the oral cavity, so there will be no external wounds on the face. The main postoperative issue is swallowing pain, for which physicians ofte...[Read More] Understanding Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty: Procedure, Recovery, and Care Tips
Understanding White Bumps on Taste Buds: Causes and Concerns
The taste buds appear white? Hello Doctor, two months ago, I noticed two small white bumps on the surface of my tongue, each about 1mm x 1mm in size. They appear to be white taste buds. I consulted an ENT specialist who mentioned that they "seem" to be fibrotic, but sin...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hi: Fibrosis or inflammation of the taste buds can both cause protrusions. It is recommended to reduce the intake of irritating foods and to drink plenty of water. However, if the size continues to increase or if there is pain, further follow-up or a biopsy may be necessary. Wish...[Read More] Understanding White Bumps on Taste Buds: Causes and Concerns
Pain in the Neck When Swallowing: Possible Causes and Solutions
Pain in the neck when swallowing saliva? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing some pain in my neck when swallowing saliva, located on the lower left side of my throat near the clavicle, which seems to be close to the thyroid area. The pain is near the surface (but it’s not ski...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, you may want to have an examination by an otolaryngologist first. The most common issue is chronic pharyngitis, which may be caused by gastroesophageal reflux, postnasal drip, or chronic irritation from smoking. Additionally, it could be due to a neck muscle strain, possib...[Read More] Pain in the Neck When Swallowing: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Hard Lumps at the Back of the Neck: When to Seek Medical Advice
There is a small hard lump at the nape of the neck? Hello, Doctor: Since the end of July this year, I have been experiencing a feeling of fullness in my right ear. This is the second occurrence, as I had a similar issue two years ago. About a month ago, the ear fullness improved ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Hedy, Hello. The primary concern regarding Eustachian tube dysfunction is whether there is a tumor in the nasopharynx. However, if you have already undergone examinations at two different otolaryngology clinics, both of which returned normal results, and you have also had a...[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps at the Back of the Neck: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Meniere's Disease: Insights from a Caloric Test Experience
Similar to Meniere's disease, and underwent the caloric test? I experienced dizziness in September of last year, and it recurred in February of this year. Currently, I have daily dizziness (feeling like I'm swaying on a bus), with intermittent severe and mild episodes, ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, 1. A slower response does not necessarily indicate a problem, as the test primarily compares the differences between both sides. If the differences remain within the normal range, it may still be considered normal. 2. The caloric test generally assesses for the presenc...[Read More] Understanding Meniere's Disease: Insights from a Caloric Test Experience
Understanding Swelling on the Right Cheek: ENT Concerns Explained
There is a small swelling on the right cheek? Hello, Doctor: In the past few months, I have experienced occasional swelling on the right side of my face, which occurs every few days or weeks. The symptoms are as follows: 1. There is a small swelling on the lower right cheek, but ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Xiao Xiang, If there is no toothache, you may first visit the ENT department at the hospital to check if it is an issue with the submandibular salivary gland. Wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Director Zheng Jue-Yi ENT Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Minist...[Read More] Understanding Swelling on the Right Cheek: ENT Concerns Explained
Understanding Ear Sounds After Facial Nerve Recovery: Causes and Solutions
There is a popping sound in the ear? Hello Dr. Cheng, four and a half months ago, I experienced right-sided facial nerve paralysis due to an unknown viral infection. After receiving treatment and rehabilitation at a hospital in the northern region for about a month and a half, I ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Mr. Chang, Hello. One of the branches of the facial nerve controls the small muscles connected to the stapes (one of the three auditory ossicles). Its function is to reduce the vibrational energy transmitted to the inner ear in response to loud sounds. It is possible that a...[Read More] Understanding Ear Sounds After Facial Nerve Recovery: Causes and Solutions
Can Weight Gain Cause Tongue Enlargement and Pain?
Tongue issues? Hello Doctor: My weight has increased by about 10 kilograms over the past two years, and the fat on my face has noticeably increased. I would like to ask if this could also cause my tongue to become enlarged? Recently, I have been experiencing pain on both sides of...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hi Xiao Ke: Hello, it is possible that inflammation of the tongue may be caused by friction between the tongue and teeth or other chronic irritations. It is advisable to reduce the intake of irritating foods, drink plenty of water, and rinse your mouth. If there are wounds that h...[Read More] Can Weight Gain Cause Tongue Enlargement and Pain?
Understanding Tongue Surface Sensations: When to Seek ENT Help
Surface of the tongue Hello doctor, I would like to ask you about a sensation I have on the front surface of my tongue that feels like it has been burned by hot water. I previously visited an oral surgeon who examined my tongue and said there was nothing wrong, but I still feel t...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen: The abnormal sensation in the tongue is generally caused by inflammation affecting the sensory nerves. You may take medication and observe the situation. However, if there is no improvement after more than two weeks, it is necessary to visit an otolaryngologist or ...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Surface Sensations: When to Seek ENT Help
Why Do I Feel Off-Balance When I Wake Up? Possible Causes and Solutions
Walking with a limp? Hello, doctor... In the past month, I have experienced two instances where, upon waking up and walking, it felt like my right side was heavier. After washing my face and brushing my teeth, it returned to normal (in about 10 minutes). I don't feel any dis...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: It may be due to inner ear imbalance. If there is no improvement, it is recommended to visit the ENT department or the neurology department at the hospital for a detailed examination. Wishing you safety and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the ENT Depa...[Read More] Why Do I Feel Off-Balance When I Wake Up? Possible Causes and Solutions
Chronic Ear Infection: Managing Yellow Discharge After Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Continuous flow of yellow fluid for two weeks? I am a nasopharyngeal cancer survivor, and it's been about 8 years since my treatment. My left eardrum has been perforated for a long time, and recently I have been experiencing yellow discharge for two weeks. My ear feels stuff...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hi Aders: This situation is indeed indicative of otitis media. Most cases can be effectively treated with ear drops or oral antibiotics, but treatment may take several weeks, so patience with the medication is necessary. If there is no improvement, it may be necessary to go to ...[Read More] Chronic Ear Infection: Managing Yellow Discharge After Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Understanding Sublingual Gland Issues: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Sublingual gland issues I recently developed a large red bump on one side of my submandibular gland, which appears to have some blood accumulation around it and feels blocked. I've been experiencing dry mouth as well. I visited an ENT specialist who suggested that I might ha...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Xiao Yuan, Hello, it may be an issue related to inflammation of the minor salivary glands. If the symptoms have improved, you can observe for a while. However, if there are recurrent episodes of inflammation or swelling, it may be necessary to seek medical attention for fur...[Read More] Understanding Sublingual Gland Issues: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Assessing Nasal Injuries in Children After Facial Trauma
Facial contusion from being punched? Hello, my 12-year-old child was accidentally hit in the face with a fist yesterday. There was a lot of bleeding from the nose, and during the cleaning process, I noticed a small clump of something that looked like nasal hair. After the bleedin...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hi Rachel: You can first assess the appearance of the nose to determine if there are any differences compared to before. If there is no deviation to one side, minor or subtle nasal bone fractures often heal on their own and do not require special treatment. However, if there is a...[Read More] Assessing Nasal Injuries in Children After Facial Trauma
Understanding Facial Tightness and Numbness Near the Ear: Causes and Solutions
Tightness and tingling in the left cheek near the ear? Recently, for about 2 to 3 weeks, I have been experiencing occasional unusual sensations in the left side of my neck below the ear, along with a tight and tingling feeling in the left cheek. I visited a neurologist who examin...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Joy, Hello, if infections, inflammation, or local tissue edema have been ruled out, the issue may primarily be related to sensory nerve abnormalities. If there is no improvement, you may consider consulting a neurologist for a detailed examination. Wishing you peace and h...[Read More] Understanding Facial Tightness and Numbness Near the Ear: Causes and Solutions
Slow Healing Gum Wound: Concerns About Oral Health and Cancer Risk
The hole on the inner side of my left gum has not healed for almost a month? Hello Doctor: About a month ago, I noticed a small bump on the inner side of my left gum near the tongue. I thought it might be due to excessive heat in my body, so I tried to pop it to let the blood out...
Dr. Xu Yingzhuo Reply:
If it has not improved for a long time (over two weeks), it is advisable to perform a biopsy. If there is a neck mass, a fine needle aspiration can be done first to check for any abnormal cells.[Read More] Slow Healing Gum Wound: Concerns About Oral Health and Cancer Risk
Distinguishing Between Oral White Spots and Leukoplakia: A Guide
How to differentiate between leukoplakia and white spots in the oral cavity? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about the difference between white spots and leukoplakia in the oral cavity. Are white spots similar to pimples, protruding from the surface? And is leukoplakia a flat ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Xiao P: Oral leukoplakia is mostly caused by chronic irritation, such as smoking or betel nut chewing. Generally, it appears as a localized area or is scattered in multiple places in the oral cavity. Small white spots may indicate ulcers or candidiasis. As for Fordyce spots,...[Read More] Distinguishing Between Oral White Spots and Leukoplakia: A Guide
Understanding Ear Lumps and Chronic Nasal Congestion: What You Need to Know
Hard lump behind the ear, frequent nasal congestion on the left side? I have noticed a hard lump behind my left ear for about five to six years, approximately located at the area of the mastoid process. The lump is about 1-2 centimeters in size, feels very hard, and is not painfu...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen Reply:
Hello: In individuals of Eastern descent, a lump behind the ear should first raise suspicion for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, especially given your symptoms of nasal congestion. It is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist for further nasopharyngeal examination. Additionally, you ...[Read More] Understanding Ear Lumps and Chronic Nasal Congestion: What You Need to Know
What to Do If Your Nasal Valve Is Damaged: Expert Advice
The nasal valve has been severed? Hello doctor, I have noticed that the nasal valve on my right nostril seems to be missing. What should I do in this case? Please help me, I am in a lot of pain. Right now, I can only use tape on the surface to maintain normal breathing through my...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Mark, Hello, I am not sure if your issue is related to the surgery. I recommend that you return for a follow-up appointment to have the original surgeon examine you. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi Attending Physician, Department of Otolary...[Read More] What to Do If Your Nasal Valve Is Damaged: Expert Advice