Understanding Chronic Nasal Congestion and Post-Nasal Drip Issues
Chronic nasal congestion with post-nasal drip? I have been experiencing intermittent post-nasal drip for three years, with the most severe symptoms occurring in the morning upon waking, which improve by midday. The mucus is clear. I do not take antihistamines; I have tried herbal...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hi Niza: If your ears are itchy and there is no obvious inflammation upon examination, it is commonly indicative of chronic otitis externa. It is advisable to reduce the use of cotton swabs for ear cleaning. If you are experiencing post-nasal drip with clear nasal discharge, it i...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Nasal Congestion and Post-Nasal Drip Issues
Persistent Itching and Healing Issues in Outer Ear Wounds
The wound in the outer ear is extremely itchy and difficult to heal? A few days ago, I accidentally scratched the outer ear, causing a small wound. The wound produces a slight discharge due to sweating, which leads to intense itching, prompting me to scratch it again. This cycle ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: You may have otitis externa; it is recommended that you seek medical evaluation and consider medication treatment or enhanced local therapy. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry...[Read More] Persistent Itching and Healing Issues in Outer Ear Wounds
Understanding and Managing Internal Ear Pain: Causes and Solutions
Internal ear pain? I have been experiencing sudden pain inside my ear over the past couple of days, and it has been getting more pronounced each day. Now, even sleeping on my side causes pain. I thought there might be a foreign object, so I used a cotton swab, but I found that a ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello JIAaln: It is recommended to seek medical examination to confirm whether it is otitis externa, otitis media, or another issue. Wishing you safety and health. Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Zheng Jueyi.[Read More] Understanding and Managing Internal Ear Pain: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Ear Pain: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
My ear has been feeling strange and very painful lately? Hello doctor, initially my right ear was just feeling stuffy and itchy, so I kept using a cotton swab to clean it. However, there were a few times when I ended up causing bleeding. Gradually, it became more uncomfortable, a...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: It is possible that you have otitis externa. If you are experiencing significant pain and a feeling of fullness, there may already be a bacterial infection. It is advisable to seek medical evaluation and receive appropriate medication treatment. Wishing you safety and heal...[Read More] Understanding Ear Pain: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort
Understanding Ear Canal Inflammation: When to Seek Medical Help
External auditory canal inflammation A few days ago, I experienced severe pain in both ears due to excessive ear cleaning. I conducted a self-examination and found that swallowing does not hurt, there is no fever, but pressing around the ears causes pain, and my hearing is normal...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: If your symptoms do not improve after applying the medication, it is recommended that you return to discuss with the original physician whether to change the medication or pursue other treatments. Wishing you peace and health. Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, ...[Read More] Understanding Ear Canal Inflammation: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding the Differences Between Outer and Chronic Ear Infections
Ear problems? Hello doctor, I asked you yesterday about otitis externa, but I went to an ENT clinic and they diagnosed me with chronic otitis media. I don't know the difference between the two. My hearing feels very poor now; I have to turn the TV up very loud. If I have chr...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hi, Zhenzi: Hello, otitis externa refers to inflammation of the external auditory canal, which is located outside the tympanic membrane. Chronic otitis media refers to inflammation of the middle ear, which is located inside the tympanic membrane. In cases of chronic otitis medi...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Outer and Chronic Ear Infections
Understanding Ear Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Ear problems? Hello, doctor. For many years, I've had a problem with my right ear where using cotton swabs results in brownish-yellow discharge. I visited a clinic, and they said it could be due to ongoing inflammation. This month, I've experienced the same issue with m...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hi, Zhenzi: Hello, it could possibly be otitis externa. I recommend medication along with ear drops for treatment. Additionally, avoid digging in your ears and getting bath water into the ear canal. If there is no improvement, you may need to go to the hospital for a bacterial cu...[Read More] Understanding Ear Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Understanding Ear Mold Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
Ear mold issues? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask you about my situation. Last week, I visited an otolaryngologist, and the initial diagnosis was otitis externa, for which I was prescribed medication. However, my ear later became blocked, and I couldn't hear clearly. I fel...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Capable: Hello, the blockage in your ear may be caused by inflammatory secretions obstructing the external auditory canal. It is recommended to continue using the prescribed medication, as improvement from inflammation may take several days to a week. However, if there is a ...[Read More] Understanding Ear Mold Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Attention
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
Blood Streaks on Cotton Swab: Is It Related to Post-Nasal Drip?
There are blood streaks in the ear? Hello Doctor: My father is 59 years old and has been suffering from chronic post-nasal drip that hasn't improved. Recently, while using a cotton swab to clean his ears, he noticed blood streaks on the swab. Could this be caused by the post...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen Reply:
These are two different issues. Post-nasal drip may indicate the possibility of sinusitis or allergic rhinitis. Using a cotton swab to dig into the external ear canal until it bleeds is a form of otitis externa. It is advisable to visit a nearby otolaryngology specialist, as it s...[Read More] Blood Streaks on Cotton Swab: Is It Related to Post-Nasal Drip?
Understanding Earwax Buildup: Causes, Treatment, and When to See a Doctor
Cleaning issues Hello, I would like to ask... I previously had my left ear cleaned once, and the doctor prescribed some ear drops, but I didn't use them. Now it seems to have accumulated a lot again. Why does this happen so easily? Is there such a condition? I don't dig...
Dr. Hu Kexin Reply:
Hello: The accumulation of earwax may be due to simple earwax buildup, or it could be caused by factors such as fungal infections or chronic otitis externa. You are welcome to visit my clinic for examination and treatment (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays in the morning). I will ...[Read More] Understanding Earwax Buildup: Causes, Treatment, and When to See a Doctor
Understanding Persistent Ear Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Ear pain? For the past four years, I have experienced intermittent pain in my left ear. In the first two years, the pain was tolerable and did not last long; sometimes it would start in the morning and be gone by the afternoon. However, there was one instance when the pain became...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, the possible cause is perichondritis, which may occur due to injury to the external auditory canal. It is recommended to seek medical attention immediately upon experiencing any symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Ear Pain: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Ear Pain and Hearing Loss: What You Need to Know
I have a lot of pain in my right ear and I'm having difficulty hearing! Hello Doctor: A couple of days ago, I suddenly had a lot of pain in my ear, as if I had used a cotton swab to clean it! I can't remember... Later, I went to see a doctor, but he didn't say much...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, your condition is external auditory canal inflammation and swelling, which is causing pain. Additionally, due to the swelling, your hearing is impaired, but once the swelling subsides, your hearing will naturally improve. The correct medical t...[Read More] Understanding Ear Pain and Hearing Loss: What You Need to Know
Understanding Ear Pain and Nasal Congestion: When to Seek Help
Regarding ear pain and nasal congestion? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you two questions: 1. In recent years, I have been experiencing a prickling pain in the ear bones closest to the outer ear. Sometimes the pain is mild, while other times it is unbearable. What kind of s...
Dr. Hu Kexin Reply:
Hello: 1. Based on your description, it is possible that you have otitis externa. It is recommended that you refrain from digging or rubbing your ear for the time being. If the pain persists, you should consult an otolaryngologist for evaluation. 2. Many diseases of the nasal and...[Read More] Understanding Ear Pain and Nasal Congestion: When to Seek Help
Sudden Hearing Loss in One Ear: Causes and Prevention Tips
Sudden loss of hearing in the right ear? Dear Director Hsu, My name is Chen, and I apologize for taking your time to ask a question. My wife suddenly lost hearing in her right ear around mid-September last year without any external force. We visited an ENT clinic, where the doct...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, I believe it is highly likely that earwax impaction in the external auditory canal has led to otitis externa. The treatment methods you have experienced are all reasonable and appropriate. To prevent this issue, it is essential to avoid using ...[Read More] Sudden Hearing Loss in One Ear: Causes and Prevention Tips
Understanding Ear Infections: Causes and Effects on Hearing
Otitis externa Dr. Hsu: Hello! I have a question I would like to ask you! I have been experiencing persistent earwax buildup in both ears for a long time, around two to three years. I often cause inflammation in my ears by scratching them with my fingers or cotton swabs. Recently...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen Reply:
Hello: In response to your question... There are many causes of chronic external otitis, including inflammation, fungal infections, and hormonal imbalances; however, these generally do not lead to hearing impairment. It is recommended to seek long-term treatment from a specialist...[Read More] Understanding Ear Infections: Causes and Effects on Hearing
Understanding Sore Throat: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Sore throat Hello Dr. Tsai: I would like to ask you about a sudden pain in my left throat that started a couple of days ago. It feels swollen and painful when I swallow saliva, as if something is stuck. The sharp pain becomes more pronounced when I yawn, to the point where it mak...
Dr. Cai Zhenggu Reply:
Hello ViVi: Based on your description, it seems to be acute pharyngitis and otitis externa. I have consultations at Nantou Hospital every Wednesday morning.[Read More] Understanding Sore Throat: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Ear Twitches: When to Seek Further ENT Evaluation
Ear Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask: About a month ago, I occasionally felt a twitching sensation in my ear, which would happen intermittently. I visited an ENT clinic and after taking medication and using ear drops, there was some improvement. However, I still experience occa...
Dr. Cai Zhenggu Reply:
Hello Mr. Wen-Rui: Based on your description, you may be suffering from acute otitis externa. The occasional sharp pain indicates that it has not been completely resolved, so it is best to have it checked again.[Read More] Understanding Ear Twitches: When to Seek Further ENT Evaluation
Can Ear Infections Fully Heal After Treatment? Understanding Recovery and Risks
Can otitis media be completely cured after treatment? Hello Dr. Hsu: My child had fluid drainage from the ear due to otitis media and was treated in the otolaryngology department for about three weeks. The doctor informed us that the condition has healed. Could you please clarify...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen Reply:
Hello: In response to your inquiry, chronic otitis media is a chronic infection caused by a perforation of the eardrum. As for your child's complaint, it seems to be acute otitis externa; however, please consult an otolaryngologist for further examination.[Read More] Can Ear Infections Fully Heal After Treatment? Understanding Recovery and Risks
Understanding Chronic Otitis Media in Infants: Key Insights and Concerns
Chronic Otitis Media in Children Hello Dr. Hsu, I am inquiring on behalf of a friend, and I would appreciate your response. Thank you very much! A colleague's child was born on April 16 (currently 6 months old). At three months old, on July 15, pus was observed coming from...
Dr. Xu Jiazhen Reply:
Hello, in response to your question: I noticed a concerned parent repeatedly visiting the hospital without knowing what treatment their child had received. Generally, an otoscope can accurately visualize the condition of the outer and middle ear. Antibiotics are prescribed only i...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Otitis Media in Infants: Key Insights and Concerns