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
Persistent Ear and Throat Pain: Seeking Medical Advice and Next Steps
Ear, nose, and throat symptoms. Please help clarify and provide some advice, thank you? Hello Doctor: My symptoms started at the end of August with a feeling of pressure and pain inside my right ear, and pain near the right side of my throat, particularly around the Adam's a...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Allen: Hello, if you have already seen multiple doctors and undergone endoscopic examinations, ruling out the presence of tumors, the pain may be caused by chronic tonsillitis or chronic pharyngitis on the right side. It is recommended that, in addition to taking anti-infl...[Read More] Persistent Ear and Throat Pain: Seeking Medical Advice and Next Steps
Conflicting Diagnoses: When to Seek Specialized Care for Throat Pain
Tonsil issues Hello: I previously asked about the pain in my throat when swallowing saliva. I have taken nine packets of medication and consulted six doctors. The first five doctors said it was related to my tonsils, but the sixth doctor said it was not the tonsils but rather som...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: For tonsillitis or joint pain, the primary treatment involves analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications. If there is no improvement after taking the medication, it is advisable to visit a major hospital for a definitive diagnosis. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerel...[Read More] Conflicting Diagnoses: When to Seek Specialized Care for Throat Pain
Understanding Neck Lumps and Associated Symptoms: An ENT Perspective
I felt three lumps in my neck? Hello, Doctor: I am unsure if my ongoing symptoms are due to two severe colds I had at the end of last December and early January. I constantly feel like there is a wind running through my body, and sometimes I experience twitching. One day, as I wa...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hi Nancy: Hello, the symptoms of general discomfort may be caused by a viral infection. It is recommended to maintain a regular routine, as symptoms often improve naturally with enhanced immunity. However, if discomfort persists, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Wishin...[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps and Associated Symptoms: An ENT Perspective
Sudden Ear Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Sudden sharp pain in the ear? Hello, I often experience sudden sharp pain in my ear, and rubbing the ear bone causes discomfort. Sometimes, I also feel difficulty swallowing in my throat and have headaches. The sharp pain occurs frequently but only lasts for a short time. Should ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Ms. Huang, Hello, it is recommended that you visit an otolaryngologist for an examination. If it is confirmed that there are no growths, it may be more indicative of neuropathic pain. You may consider taking medication to alleviate the symptoms or seek further evaluation fr...[Read More] Sudden Ear Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Understanding Post-Nasal Drip: Risks and Remedies for Your Health
Post-nasal drip I would like to ask the doctor: I have a runny nose due to a cold and allergies. Sometimes I can blow my nose, and sometimes I can't, so I end up swallowing it. I've heard that swallowing mucus that passes through the nasopharynx can lead to nasopharynge...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Steve, It is actually fine to swallow mucus; it will not cause any nasopharyngeal disorders. Wishing you safety and health, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi Director, Department of Otolaryngology Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare[Read More] Understanding Post-Nasal Drip: Risks and Remedies for Your Health
Understanding Nasal Congestion and Tinnitus: Causes and Solutions
Nasal congestion and tinnitus? Ten years ago, during a severe cold, I experienced significant nasal congestion. After forcefully blowing my nose, I heard a sound in my ears similar to a popping noise, and subsequently, I noticed the presence of tinnitus. The tinnitus fluctuates i...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Yoyo: If there is no improvement, it is recommended to visit the ENT department at the hospital for a detailed examination and to arrange for a hearing test to determine whether the issue is related to the Eustachian tube or the middle ear. Wishing you safety and health. Sin...[Read More] Understanding Nasal Congestion and Tinnitus: Causes and Solutions
Difficulty Swallowing and Digestive Issues: When to See an ENT or Gastroenterologist?
Sore throat with difficulty swallowing and bloating with poor digestion? Last Saturday, I ate some mochi and possibly ate too quickly, and suddenly I felt a blockage in my throat. It's been a week, and I have difficulty swallowing. My stomach also feels bloated and hard to d...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Mei: If there is still no improvement, it is recommended to see a gastroenterologist and arrange for an endoscopy. Wishing you peace and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the ENT Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Difficulty Swallowing and Digestive Issues: When to See an ENT or Gastroenterologist?
Understanding Symptoms of Throat Discomfort After Fish Bone Incident
Symptoms that may occur from a fish bone stuck in the throat include: 1. A sensation of something being lodged in the throat. 2. Pain or discomfort in the throat, especially when swallowing. 3. Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of tightness in the Hello Doctor, I visited the c...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, if you have already been examined and it is likely that your throat discomfort is caused by an infection, you can take medication and drink plenty of water to monitor your condition. If there is no improvement, you will need to seek medical attention again. Wishing you saf...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms of Throat Discomfort After Fish Bone Incident
Symptoms of Fish Bone Obstruction: What You Need to Know
Possible symptoms of a fishbone stuck in the throat? Hello, Doctor. During lunch today, I had a dish with salmon. While eating, I wasn't sure if my throat was too dry or if I actually swallowed a fish bone. Towards the end of the meal, I felt a brief pain in my throat when I...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: Generally, if a fish bone gets stuck, there is often a noticeable pain or sharp sensation when swallowing. If the sensation is odd or only slightly uncomfortable, it is usually caused by mild inflammation or a small abrasion. It is recommended that if there is no improveme...[Read More] Symptoms of Fish Bone Obstruction: What You Need to Know
Overcoming Difficulty Swallowing: Tips for Managing Anxiety and Eating
Loss of appetite Hello doctor, I usually have no problem eating under normal circumstances, but sometimes when I'm nervous or eating out, it feels like I've forgotten how to swallow, making it difficult to get food down. Foods with soup are easier to manage, but sometim...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, if swallowing is normal under general circumstances, it is likely not an organ issue. It may be related to autonomic nervous system problems, as mentioned by the psychiatrist. It is recommended to relax, eat in a stable emotional state, and not to focus too much on the act...[Read More] Overcoming Difficulty Swallowing: Tips for Managing Anxiety and Eating
Understanding Chronic Throat Pain: Causes and Treatments
Sore throat? Dear Dr. Cheng, About two months ago, I had a cold, and I was coughing so severely that I lost my voice. Since my job requires me to speak continuously, I didn't have the chance to rest properly. Since that incident, I've occasionally felt like there is so...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, Chronic pharyngitis may be triggered by factors such as a cold and the need for prolonged speaking at work. Other common factors include smoking, gastroesophageal reflux, or frequent consumption of spicy or fried foods. It is recommended to drink plenty of water, reduce ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Throat Pain: Causes and Treatments
Why Does My Throat Feel Creaky When Swallowing Saliva?
When swallowing saliva, there is a clicking sensation in the throat cartilage? Hello Dr. Cheng: Recently, I've been experiencing some discomfort in my throat, especially when I wake up in the morning and drink water or when I lie down before sleeping and swallow saliva. I of...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, Xiao Ke: Based on the symptoms you've described, it is possible that you are experiencing chronic pharyngitis, which may be caused by chronic irritants such as spicy foods, gastroesophageal reflux, smoking, or prolonged speaking due to work. I recommend that you first...[Read More] Why Does My Throat Feel Creaky When Swallowing Saliva?
Understanding Sleep Disorders: Is It Sleep Apnea or Something Else?
Sleep apnea? Hello Doctor: For the past couple of weeks, whether during the day or at night, whenever I lie down to sleep, I experience involuntary movements in my throat just as I'm about to fall asleep (before actually sleeping). These movements include sudden inhalations,...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, you may first visit an otolaryngologist to check for any structural issues or growths. The symptoms do not seem to indicate sleep apnea. If no issues are found, it may still be worth considering neurological problems or autonomic nervous system disorders. You could consult...[Read More] Understanding Sleep Disorders: Is It Sleep Apnea or Something Else?
Understanding Saliva Swallowing and Its Natural Flow Mechanism
About swallowing saliva? Hello Doctor, I have a concern regarding the area under my tongue, specifically behind the lower teeth where saliva is continuously being secreted. I find that even after swallowing, it keeps coming back. I would like to ask: 1. In the area behind the l...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, near the frenulum of the tongue, there are openings of the submandibular and sublingual glands, which continuously secrete saliva. When the amount reaches a certain level, it triggers a natural swallowing reflex, which is a normal physiological phenomenon. It is advised th...[Read More] Understanding Saliva Swallowing and Its Natural Flow Mechanism
Understanding Pain Above the Adam's Apple: Causes and Insights
Pain above the Adam's apple? Dr. Zheng: Hello, I have something to consult you about. Yesterday (May 23, 2013), upon waking up, I noticed an abnormality above my Adam's apple. Today (May 24, 2013), the symptoms are still present. 1. There is slight pain when I tilt my h...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, the most common issue may be inflammation of the submandibular lymph nodes, which can cause pain when pulled or pressed. This may be due to a viral infection or inflammation caused by dental issues. It is advisable to monitor the situation for a few days. If the pain worse...[Read More] Understanding Pain Above the Adam's Apple: Causes and Insights
Switching from Mouth to Nose Breathing: Tips for Relief and Hydration
Mouth breathing I have started breathing through my nose with my mouth closed, but I find myself swallowing saliva frequently. I'm not sure if years of mouth breathing have led to this situation. I often feel thirsty and consume a lot of water, even though my nasal passages ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to continue breathing through the nose, as the nose serves to filter and warm the air. Generally speaking, breathing through the nose should result in less dryness in the mouth. You may also want to drink more water and observe the situation for a while. ...[Read More] Switching from Mouth to Nose Breathing: Tips for Relief and Hydration
Understanding Throat Pain: Essential Tests and Causes Explained
If you have a sore throat, what tests should you undergo? Hello Dr. Zheng, I have been experiencing a sharp pain in the central anterior part of my throat (similar to the location of a male's Adam's apple) since April of last year. The pain is most noticeable when I f...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Fangfang, 1. The tube inserted through the nostril for examination is likely a nasopharyngoscope, which allows for a detailed inspection from the nasal cavity, nasopharynx, oropharynx, to the hypopharynx. Chronic pharyngitis caused by gastric acid can show inflammation and ...[Read More] Understanding Throat Pain: Essential Tests and Causes Explained
Understanding Swallowing Difficulties: Tonsil Inflammation and Its Impact
Dysphagia Hello, Doctor. My father has been experiencing pain in the area of the tonsils (the part connecting the jaw and throat) for over a year. Initially, he produced excessive saliva, but in the past few months, he has started to have difficulty swallowing and coughing. Whene...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Dear Kyky: Most cases of tonsillitis indeed cause pain when swallowing, and in severe cases, it may lead to difficulty swallowing. However, most patients improve with medication within one to two weeks. If there is no improvement and swallowing difficulties or pain persist, it is...[Read More] Understanding Swallowing Difficulties: Tonsil Inflammation and Its Impact
Pain in the Right Neck When Swallowing: Possible Causes and Solutions
Experiencing pain on the right side of the neck when swallowing saliva? Hello, doctor. Today, I suddenly felt pain on the right side of my neck when swallowing saliva. However, it is not the typical throat pain; it doesn't hurt inside. The pain radiates from the area of the ...
Dr. Zheng Jueyi Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist to check for any redness or inflammation inside the oral cavity. If there is none, the pain may be caused by inflammation of the neck muscles or fascia, which could be related to long-term work or posture. If there is no imp...[Read More] Pain in the Right Neck When Swallowing: Possible Causes and Solutions