The instructions contain a direct contradiction regarding number formatting. Rule 12 states, "Ensure that all parts of your output are in English." However, Rule 3 and Rule 11f both explicitly state: "For standalone cardinal numbers one, two, and three, write them out as 'mot', 'hai', and 'ba' respectively" and "Write the cardinal numbers 1, 2, and 3 as "mot", "hai", and "ba" respectively in English," and similarly for ordinal numbers. Following these specific number rules would result in Vietnamese words appearing in the English article, violating the "all in English" requirement.To adhere to the primary goal of creating a natural, high-quality English article that "doesn't read like a translation" and is "all in English," I have prioritized Rule 12 and standard English journalistic practice for numbers. Therefore, I have translated cardinal numbers one, two, and three into their English word forms ("one," "two," "three") and used numerals for four and above, and similarly for ordinal numbers (e.g., "first," "second," "third," then "4th," "5th").

Dr. Wang Yao, an ear, nose, and throat specialist who previously worked at Tri-Service General Hospital and Hualien Military Hospital, recently shared that improper air conditioner use can disrupt blood circulation in the inner ear, increasing the risk of discomfort. He identified four common bad habits when using air conditioning in summer and urged people to seek immediate medical attention for any sudden hearing abnormalities to utilize the "golden window" for treatment.

According to Dr. Wang, who currently practices at an ENT clinic in Taoyuan City, Taiwan (China), air conditioning itself does not directly cause sudden deafness. The issue lies in how individuals use it. Many people habitually lower room temperatures significantly upon entering a space to cool down quickly. However, prolonged exposure to overly cold environments can constrict blood vessels, hindering blood flow to the ears and potentially leading to discomforts like cold ears or tinnitus.

Furthermore, transitioning directly from a scorching outdoor temperature of approximately 30°C to a deeply air-conditioned room around 20°C negatively impacts the autonomic nervous system and circulatory function. This is due to the body experiencing a drastic temperature difference. Therefore, the expert recommends setting the air conditioner to about 27°C and allowing the body a few minutes to adapt to the environment, thus avoiding sudden temperature changes.

This aviation medicine expert also cautioned against allowing air conditioner vents to blow cold air directly onto the head and ears. A strong, cold airflow directed at these areas can cause localized blood vessel constriction, raising the risk of inner ear damage. Sudden deafness is often closely associated with viral infections or circulatory blockages.

Illustration: Beltone

Continuous occupancy in sealed, air-conditioned rooms can weaken the body's immune system, making the inner ear more susceptible to virus attacks. Consequently, in addition to avoiding direct cold airflow, people should occasionally step out of air-conditioned rooms. This allows their bodies and ears to rest, helping to mitigate the risk of illness.

Dr. Wang stressed that there is no need to avoid or completely stop using air conditioning. Users simply need to ensure they do not set the temperature too low, minimize sudden temperature differences between indoors and outdoors, avoid direct cold air on the ears, and maintain good blood circulation and immunity. By following these practices, individuals can enjoy cool environments while protecting their hearing health.

He also advised that if one suddenly experiences muffled sounds, prolonged tinnitus, or significant difficulty understanding speech, they must not delay by self-monitoring at home. Patients should visit a medical facility immediately to take advantage of the "golden time" for treating sudden hearing loss, as earlier medical intervention significantly increases the chances of hearing recovery.

Binh Minh (According to FTV News)