Understanding Earwax: Soft vs. Dry and Its Impact on Hearing Health
About the ear? Hello, doctor. I have a question about my ear that has been bothering me for a very long time! Recently (it's been a while), when I sleep, I suddenly experience a sensation of sound disappearing in my ears. Sometimes it's in both ears, sometimes just one....
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: Earwax can be either dry or oily. It is generally advised not to use cotton swabs to clean oily earwax, as this can push it further inside and lead to earwax impaction. Typically, after applying ear drops and cleaning thoroughly, hearing will be restored, and it usually do...[Read More] Understanding Earwax: Soft vs. Dry and Its Impact on Hearing Health
Understanding Ear Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Ear pain? Hello doctor, I have swelling and pain behind my ear. I have to pull my ear forward and can only ask my family to check it for me because I can't see it myself. They said it looks like there's a lump right at the junction behind my ear. I would like to know wh...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: Most likely, it is inflammation of the hair follicles or mastoiditis behind the ear. If there is no improvement, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for a definitive diagnosis. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department...[Read More] Understanding Ear Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Neck and Groin Lumps: Are They Cancerous?
Cervical and groin masses? If a physician observes four painless lymph nodes in the neck, each smaller than one centimeter, that have not increased in size for over six months and are mobile, along with a small, mobile lump in the groin, what is the likelihood of malignancy?
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: A lesion that is less than one centimeter, painless, and has not changed in size for over six months is mostly indicative of a benign condition. It can be monitored; however, if you have concerns, you may still seek medical attention for a physician's evaluation. Wish...[Read More] Understanding Neck and Groin Lumps: Are They Cancerous?
Understanding Throat Issues: Pain, Swelling, and Symptoms Explained
Throat issues I initially had a sore throat and thought it was a cold, but the next day I noticed swelling next to my Adam's apple, feeling like there was a lump. I haven't had a fever, and my symptoms are similar to a common cold, including sore throat and phlegm. What...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, it could possibly be an issue with the lymph nodes, a cyst, or the thyroid. If there is no improvement after a week, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation for a definitive diagnosis. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Departm...[Read More] Understanding Throat Issues: Pain, Swelling, and Symptoms Explained
Understanding Left Neck Lumps: Causes and What to Expect at Your Appointment
Swelling in the left side of the neck below the ear? Hello Doctor, I have two nodules on the left side of my neck that feel round. I remember discovering them in middle school, and now that I'm about to enter my junior year of college, I've been experiencing significant...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
If the lymph nodes have not changed significantly in size for several years, they are mostly benign. If you have already made an appointment, you should have more definitive results after the physician's examination. Wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Ju...[Read More] Understanding Left Neck Lumps: Causes and What to Expect at Your Appointment
Understanding Hard Lumps in the Neck: When to See an ENT Specialist
Neck lump? Hello, Doctor: Recently, I discovered a lump measuring 1 to 2 centimeters in the lymph nodes on the right side of my neck. When I first found it, it was painful to the touch, and I initially thought it was a pimple, as it felt like it had a head, but it has not matured...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, 雅: Currently, a diagnosis cannot be determined based on the description provided. It is recommended that you visit an otolaryngologist for a confirmed diagnosis. Wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, T...[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps in the Neck: When to See an ENT Specialist
Understanding Neck Lumps: What to Know About Movable and Small Masses
Neck mass Hello, I discovered a lump on the left side of my neck during the New Year celebrations. I found three lumps: one larger and two smaller ones. All of them are movable and have a soft consistency. I later consulted with an ENT specialist and a family medicine doctor, bot...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, based on your description, since the lump is smaller than 1 cm and movable, it is mostly indicative of a benign lymph node. However, the final result should still be based on the biopsy report. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Departmen...[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: What to Know About Movable and Small Masses
Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Consider a Biopsy
Neck mass? Hello Dr. Zheng: In April, I discovered a lump on the left side of my posterior neck (it is painless and movable) - it appears to be located in the posterior triangle lymphatic region (approximately 5 to 6 centimeters from the vertical line of the ear). The doctor note...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hi Fan Fan: Hello, if the clinician has concerns and recommends a nasopharyngeal biopsy, it is generally advised to proceed with the biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. If you prefer not to undergo the biopsy and would like to observe the situation first, you can discuss it in detai...[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Consider a Biopsy
Understanding Neck Lymphoma: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Safety Concerns
Cervical Lymphoma The position of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the presence of some hard lumps in the neck and shoulders prompted me to see an ENT specialist. I asked if I needed an X-ray, and inquired why there was a sudden increase in the number and prominence of these...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, Xiao Kai: If the examination results show benign lymph nodes, it is recommended to maintain a regular schedule and avoid staying up late, or to consider oral anti-inflammatory medications. Most inflamed lymph nodes will decrease in size or disappear, but if they continue t...[Read More] Understanding Neck Lymphoma: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Safety Concerns
Should You See a Doctor for a Movable Neck Lump?
There is a hard lump in the neck? I have a movable lump near the Adam's apple on my neck that doesn't hurt. I've had this lump since I was 7 or 8 years old. Should I see a doctor for a diagnosis?
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hi Lily: Hello, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist for an examination. It could be a lymph node, a thyroglossal duct cyst, or other subcutaneous tumors. However, since it has been present for many years, it is likely benign. If the size continues to increase, it is ad...[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for a Movable Neck Lump?
Understanding Ear-Related Swellings: Lymph Nodes or Salivary Gland Issues?
Swelling in the subauricular region? Hello Dr. Zheng, about six years ago I was diagnosed with lymphoma, and I am currently in remission. However, I tend to be particularly vigilant about any lumps on my body. Last week, I noticed swelling and pain below my right ear, and a local...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Ms. Lin, The lump located in front of the earlobe may possibly be related to the parotid gland or swollen lymph nodes within the parotid gland. If there is no significant improvement after taking anti-inflammatory medication for a week, it is recommended that you visit the ...[Read More] Understanding Ear-Related Swellings: Lymph Nodes or Salivary Gland Issues?
Understanding Jaw and Neck Issues: Tumors or Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Temporomandibular joint & neck Recently, I've been experiencing soreness in my temporomandibular joint (TMJ) when eating. However, when I touch the right side of my TMJ, I can feel a lump, which is not typical for just soreness. Is it possible that this could be a tumor?...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to first consult an otolaryngologist for an examination. Most cases of temporomandibular joint inflammation are primarily managed with medication, while a small number may require surgery, which can be discussed with an oral surgeon. Wishing you safety an...[Read More] Understanding Jaw and Neck Issues: Tumors or Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Is It Nasopharyngeal Cancer or Chronic Sinusitis? Understanding Your Symptoms
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma or chronic sinusitis? I have been experiencing recurrent post-nasal drip for over three months. I have visited five different clinics, and each time the doctor has said it is caused by allergies. I have used nasal sprays and taken antihistamines, but I st...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Layla: Hello, this possibility cannot be ruled out. I recommend that you go to the hospital for a more detailed examination. Wishing you safety and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health an...[Read More] Is It Nasopharyngeal Cancer or Chronic Sinusitis? Understanding Your Symptoms
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
Understanding Tonsil Stones: Causes, Symptoms, and Concerns
Tonsillar crypts or tonsillar granules? Hello, doctor. I have two lumps on the right side of my throat, one large and one small. A few days ago, I visited a doctor who said they are tonsil stones. Using some instruments, they were able to extract a bit of liquid, similar to squee...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hi Maya: Hello, it appears that it could be tonsil stones or lymphoid tissue in the tonsils. Initially, it seems to be benign tissue. If it is stones, they can be removed through local treatment; however, if it is normal lymphoid tissue, it may not disappear. It is advisable to m...[Read More] Understanding Tonsil Stones: Causes, Symptoms, and Concerns
Understanding Swollen Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
Enlarged cervical lymph nodes? Hello Doctor: About a month ago, I discovered two lumps behind my neck near my hairline while showering. The next day, I visited a nearby clinic, and the doctor prescribed antibiotics. After taking them for a week, the lumps reduced in size, and the...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: If the lymph nodes have decreased in size and are only occasionally palpable, it is mostly a benign change. It is advisable to monitor the situation. However, if they continue to enlarge or become painful, a follow-up medical examination is necessary. Wishing you peace and...[Read More] Understanding Swollen Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
Understanding Post-Surgery Hard Lumps After Salivary Gland Cyst Removal
Salivary gland cyst? Hello Doctor: I previously underwent surgery for the removal of a salivary gland cyst, and I have noticed a hard lump at the surgical site post-operation. I am unsure about the situation. Thank you for taking the time to respond.
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Yucc: Hello, it is normal to have lumps at the common incision sites after surgery; most of them are temporary and will gradually improve over the course of a few weeks or months. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otola...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Hard Lumps After Salivary Gland Cyst Removal
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 Lymph Node Issues: When to See an ENT or Dermatologist
Could you please provide more details about the lymph node issue? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask about a small movable lump I can feel near the junction of my chin and neck. I can feel it at certain angles, but not at others. There are no visible signs of swelling on the skin...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: Yes, it is likely lymph nodes, but they may have become more prominent due to inflammation caused by acne on the chin. The primary focus should be on treating the inflammation at the original site, and the inflamed lymph nodes will naturally decrease in size. It is certain...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Issues: When to See an ENT or Dermatologist
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