How Are the Ears, Nose and Throat Connected?
Otolaryngology is one of the most common healthcare specialties, with approximately 27 million people in the United States alone visiting an otolaryngologist each year. Otolaryngologists treat issues related to the ears, nose and throat. This may also include allergies and sinus issues. While the ears, nose and throat serve different functions, they are more connected…
Ways to Relieve a Dry Nose
Winter weather and certain illnesses can leave your nose feeling dry and uncomfortable. Dry nose, also known as rhinitis sicca, is a medical condition that can cause symptoms such as burning, itching, scabbing, congestion, and nosebleeds. While treatment usually involves addressing the underlying cause and moisturizing the nose, there are several home remedies that can…
Common Causes of an Itchy Throat
An itchy throat can feel like a frustrating and uncomfortable symptom, especially if you don’t know what’s causing it. Let’s take a look at a few common causes of an itchy throat and what you can do to help minimize your symptoms. Allergies Allergies are extremely common, with approximately 100 million people in the U.S….
What To Know About Earwax Blockages
Earwax blockages, or cerumen impaction, occur either when your body produces ear wax faster than it expels it or when the wax is pushed too far into the ear canal using cotton swabs or other small objects. Symptoms of earwax blockages may include: Earwax blockage is relatively common, with approximately 10% of children and 5%…
Symptoms of Mold Allergies
Mold, a common environmental allergen, can be found both indoors and outdoors. Exposure to mold can lead to various health issues, ranging from no reaction to allergic responses and exacerbation of asthma symptoms. Common Mold Allergy Symptoms Exposure to mold can cause a variety of symptoms that include but are not limited to congestion, wheezing…
Are Ear Infections Contagious?
Ear infections, also known as otitis media, is an infection in the middle ear. It is common and can occur at any age. Ear infections aren’t contagious, but the viruses and infections that sometimes lead to ear infections oftentimes are contagious. It’s helpful to know the causes and symptoms of ear infections. Knowing so will…
What to Know About Managing Pediatric Bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis is a viral infection affecting children younger than two years old that targets the airways in a child’s lungs. Most common during winter, bronchiolitis typically causes wheezing, coughing and a slight fever. Although uncommon, bronchiolitis can cause trouble breathing. In cases of labored breathing, a healthcare provider should be contacted immediately. While bronchiolitis isn’t…
Can Acid Reflux Change Your Voice?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid rises through the esophagus, the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach. Two common categories of acid reflux are: LPR contributes to hoarseness in up to 55% of patients with impaired voice function. When you experience chronic acid reflux, your voice may become hoarse due inflammation and soreness in…
How Can You Prevent a Runny Nose?
A runny nose may sound like a minor bother, but it can quickly turn into a frustrating symptom. A runny nose isn’t commonly a reason for concern but may be accompanied by raw-feeling skin around the nose and mouth, trouble breathing, poor sense of smell and more. Runny noses may occur for no identifiable reason,…
Why Do I Wake Up With a Stuffy Nose?
Waking up with a stuffy nose can be worrisome and irritating, especially if you aren’t sure why it is happening. There are many possible triggers for a stuffy nose. Let’s examine a few of those triggers and what you can do to relieve your congestion. Common Causes of a Stuffy Nose Common causes of nasal…