Rare Medical Case: Hair Knot Found Entangled at Patient's Tongue Base

According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand, an unusual medical case has emerged involving a man who experienced sudden speech impairment and a sensation of obstruction in his mouth. The patient initially believed a wire had become snagged on his tongue while he was drinking. Upon physical examination, he felt a small strand, prompting him to seek professional medical assistance.

Dr. Chen Shixi, an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, documented the incident, noting it was the most peculiar case he had encountered in his 12-year career. While the doctor initially attempted to remove what appeared to be a simple hair with forceps, the patient experienced significant pain, indicating the object was more deeply embedded than expected. Further inspection using an oral endoscope revealed that a long brown hair had formed a tight knot around the circumvallate papillae at the base of the tongue.

For residents and travelers, this case highlights the importance of seeking professional medical care rather than attempting to self-extract foreign objects from sensitive areas like the throat or tongue. The doctor emphasized that pulling on such objects can cause injury. While the patient's recovery process is not detailed, the incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with accidental ingestion of foreign fibers. It remains to be confirmed how the hair became so tightly knotted in such a specific anatomical location.