Dealing with a Bitten Tongue: When to Seek ENT Care
Biting the tongue? Hello Doctor, I accidentally bit my tongue a little while talking and eating fruit. Later, I looked in the mirror and noticed a small black spot there. Although it hasn't raised like a blister, it feels like a small bruise. Should I seek medical attention ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: Commonly, a hematoma caused by a bite may not be associated with significant pain or bleeding. You can initially observe it for about one to two weeks, as it will likely resolve on its own. If there is no improvement or if you have concerns, you may visit an otolaryngologi...[Read More] Dealing with a Bitten Tongue: When to Seek ENT Care
Understanding Swollen Tonsils: Viral or Bacterial Infection?
Tonsillitis? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my recent condition. My tonsils are slightly swollen, and the area around the tonsils in my throat is a bit red. There are some rough bumps on the outside of my lips, but there is no pain or fever. Could you please advise if th...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: If there is no obvious purulence, it is often more related to viral infections. Wishing you peace and health. Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Zheng Jue-Yi.[Read More] Understanding Swollen Tonsils: Viral or Bacterial Infection?
Understanding Persistent Nasal Congestion: Causes and Solutions
Nasal congestion all day? Hello Doctor: Since March, I have been experiencing some nasal congestion on the right side (approximately one-third of my nostril, persisting throughout the day). When riding my bike, I initially feel like there is a round object (or something similar t...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, based on your description: There are many causes of nasal congestion, the most common being allergic rhinitis combined with insufficient nasal space (such as a deviated septum and hypertrophic rhinitis). However, conditions such as nasopharyngeal or nasal tumors (like naso...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Nasal Congestion: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Ear Blockage: Causes and Solutions for Your Left Ear
Ear problems The left ear feels blocked, and pulling on it produces a loud whooshing sound.
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, the issues you mentioned could 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) Otitis me...[Read More] Understanding Ear Blockage: Causes and Solutions for Your Left Ear
What Does a Pus-Filled Bump on the Left Side of Your Tongue Indicate?
A small pus-filled bump on the left side of the tongue may indicate an issue such as a canker sore, an oral abscess, or a viral infection. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment? A small pus-filled bump on the left...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: If there is no improvement after 1-2 weeks, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for examination. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] What Does a Pus-Filled Bump on the Left Side of Your Tongue Indicate?
Understanding Tonsil Issues: Symptoms, Stones, and Treatment Options
Tonsil problems Recently, I have occasionally felt a sensation of something stuck in my throat. About a month ago, I had tonsillitis and took antibiotics, and my symptoms have gradually improved. I believe I am now better, as my throat does not feel sore or painful, and I do not ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, if there is no significant swelling or pain in the throat and no fever, it is likely that there are no acute tonsillitis symptoms. Currently, there is no need for medication. It is recommended to drink plenty of water, gargle, and reduce spicy foods. Repeatedly using cotto...[Read More] Understanding Tonsil Issues: Symptoms, Stones, and Treatment Options
Understanding Tinnitus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Tinnitus condition About two months ago, I started experiencing low-frequency tinnitus in my left ear in a quiet environment due to insomnia. After taking medication, the tinnitus subsided. At that time, I underwent a pure-tone audiometry test, which yielded normal results. Howev...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, the issues you mentioned could be due to: 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction: This can occur not only during flying, mountain climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over. 2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss: Based on your description, this ...[Read More] Understanding Tinnitus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Lymph Node Concerns: When to Seek Medical Advice
Lymph node issues? Hello, doctor. I have a lymph node that has been present for seven to eight years. It is small, about 0.3-0.5 cm, soft, and movable. It is difficult to locate in the submandibular area. I have seen many doctors who say that it is a scarred lymph node and that I...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: After an infection improves, lymph nodes may shrink, but they may not necessarily return to a size that is completely unpalpable. Generally, a reduction in size or no further enlargement is indicative of benign lymph node changes. It is advisable to monitor the situation; ...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Concerns: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Tonsil Pain: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
The tonsils are a bit painful? Hello Doctor, last Monday I visited an ENT specialist because I had a sore throat on both sides, along with phlegm and nasal discharge. The doctor diagnosed me with allergies and a cold. After taking the medication twice, I noticed some improvement,...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: The secretions on the tonsils are commonly associated with infections. If there is no improvement, please continue to follow up with an otolaryngology clinic for examination and treatment. Wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Depa...[Read More] Understanding Tonsil Pain: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Lymphadenopathy Hello Doctor: About three weeks ago, I woke up with a sharp pain on the right side of my neck and a small hard lump. Two days later, I accidentally discovered 3-4 small bumps on the scalp at the back of my head. After being diagnosed by a dermatologist, it was det...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: Enlarged lymph nodes may lead to neck tightness, while throat symptoms may be less related to lymph node enlargement. Currently, lymph nodes less than 1 cm in size are mostly benign lymphadenopathy. After the infection improves, their size may decrease, but they may not co...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Understanding Sore Throat: Causes of Pain and Bitter Taste
Recently, I've been experiencing discomfort in my throat? In the past few days, I have been experiencing a sudden bitter taste in my throat, and today my throat feels a bit sore. I feel pain when swallowing saliva, and I'm not sure what might be causing these symptoms.
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: Commonly associated with infections or gastroesophageal reflux. If the pain persists without improvement, it is advisable to seek medical examination. Wishing you safety and health. Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welf...[Read More] Understanding Sore Throat: Causes of Pain and Bitter Taste
Do You Really Need to Pick Your Nose? Understanding Nasal Hygiene
Is it necessary to frequently pick your nose? I really love picking my nose. In the past, I often picked until I bled. Now, due to the pandemic, I've been taught not to touch my mouth, nose, or eyes carelessly, so I've resisted the urge to pick my nose. After a while, I...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, under normal circumstances, the nose has a self-cleaning function, and there is no need to deliberately clean the inside of the nasal cavity with hands or cotton swabs every day, as this may lead to inflammation or infection. It is sufficient to clean the external area wit...[Read More] Do You Really Need to Pick Your Nose? Understanding Nasal Hygiene
Understanding Nasal Congestion and Thick Mucus: Causes and Solutions
Nasal congestion with white, thick mucus? Hello Doctor: In February, I had pneumonia and experienced a lot of thick, clear nasal discharge. After the pneumonia resolved, I continued to have persistent nasal congestion with the same thick, clear mucus, which has lasted until now. ...
Dr. Li Jiaxuan Reply:
If simple nasal irrigation is insufficient for treatment, it is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist to check for sinusitis, and to consider medication to address the inflammation. Thick mucus may indicate inflammation, which could be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. ...[Read More] Understanding Nasal Congestion and Thick Mucus: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Blood-Streaked Phlegm: Causes and Concerns in ENT
Hemoptysis with sputum? Hello, doctor. In early April, I noticed blood-tinged mucus when I coughed up phlegm from my nasal cavity. I later went to a clinic where an endoscopy was performed, and the doctor found slight bleeding, so I was referred to a hospital for further examinat...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, based on your description, there are many causes of nosebleeds, with the most common being thin nasal mucosa, which can be caused by forceful nose blowing. However, conditions such as nasopharyngeal or nasal cavity tumors (like nasopharyngeal carcinoma), sinusitis, fungal ...[Read More] Understanding Blood-Streaked Phlegm: Causes and Concerns in ENT
Understanding Papilloma in the Throat: Post-Surgery Care and Concerns
Laryngeal papillomatosis Hello Doctor, last week I discovered a lump on my left tonsil and underwent surgery for its removal. The biopsy results indicated a papilloma, and the cytological examination showed no abnormalities. 1. It is now the 9th day post-surgery, and I have bee...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: Generally, hoarseness is less common after surgery. If it persists without improvement, you may return for an earlier follow-up appointment for further evaluation by your physician. Additionally, papillomas are associated with the human papillomavirus, and it is indeed adv...[Read More] Understanding Papilloma in the Throat: Post-Surgery Care and Concerns
Understanding Throat Discomfort: Allergies, Infections, or Something More?
Mold issues Doctor, I apologize for bothering you again. In addition to the itchiness in my throat, I also have a persistent sensation of something being stuck and phlegm. Should I continue to observe this for a while? Are there any foods or medications that can provide temporary...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, if there are no obvious tumors in the oral cavity and you are experiencing a sensation of a foreign body in the throat or a feeling of phlegm, the most common causes are gastroesophageal reflux or smoking. It is recommended to drink more water and reduce the intake of irri...[Read More] Understanding Throat Discomfort: Allergies, Infections, or Something More?
Understanding Oral Health Issues After Oral Sex: What You Need to Know
Oral issues Hello doctor, two months ago I had a sexual encounter with a sex worker and performed oral sex. Since then, my throat has been uncomfortable and itchy. I haven't noticed any lesions in my mouth, but I'm very worried that I might have a sexually transmitted i...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, if you are currently asymptomatic and there are no obvious lesions in the oral cavity, you may start with self-observation. Additionally, throat itching and discomfort may be related to gastroesophageal reflux; it is advisable to manage your diet and increase water intake....[Read More] Understanding Oral Health Issues After Oral Sex: What You Need to Know
Understanding Lymphadenitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Lymphadenitis I would like to ask the doctor about some symptoms I've been experiencing. Two weeks ago, I noticed a lump on the right side of my jaw and neck that hurts when pressed. My throat also hurts, and I have two sores on my tongue that are more painful than usual mou...
Dr. Ji Zhaoyun Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it is most likely that you are experiencing pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and oral ulcers accompanied by cervical lymphadenopathy. Treatment typically involves the use of medications, and antibiotics may be necessary if the lymphadenopathy continues ...[Read More] Understanding Lymphadenitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever After a Cold: When to Seek Help
Persistent low-grade fever after a cold? Hello Doctor: I visited the clinic due to severe throat pain and was diagnosed with tonsillitis and post-nasal drip. The next day, I developed a fever over 38 degrees Celsius. After taking antipyretics, my temperature dropped to over 37 de...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: It is common that you may still have an incomplete recovery from a cold infection. It is advisable to drink plenty of water and get ample rest. If your body temperature exceeds 38 degrees Celsius or if you continue to feel unwell, it is recommended to seek medical evaluati...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Low-Grade Fever After a Cold: When to Seek Help
Understanding Persistent Throat Symptoms: Antibiotics or Viral Infection?
Continuing from question #154740? Hello Doctor: I am currently in the United States and am having some difficulties with medical care. I would like to request your assistance. Previously, I asked you about issues related to inflammation of the tongue and tonsils. Last week, I rec...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: You can finish the course of medication. If there are no significant symptoms such as fever or throat pus, and you have completed a week of antibiotics, you may temporarily refrain from using antibiotics. It is advisable to drink plenty of water, rest, and self-monitor. If...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Throat Symptoms: Antibiotics or Viral Infection?