Comparing Over-the-Counter vs. Medical Sinus Treatments
Stuffy nose, sniffling, difficulty breathing, sinus pressure: sinus issues can cause some annoying and disruptive symptoms. The good news is that there are a plethora of treatment options to help manage your symptoms, ranging from over-the-counter (OTC) options to prescription to medical treatment. Let’s discuss some of the options out there, and when you might…
When to Consider a Sinus Evaluation: Signs You Might Need Specialist Care
Sinus issues can come from a myriad of sources: dry winter air, a cold, allergies, etc. Because sinus symptoms seem so ubiquitous in the winter, they may be easy to dismiss as “just a cold,” treatable with rest and a decongestant. However, in some cases, sinus issues could signal something much more serious. Common Sinus…
Why Do My Ears Pop?
You’re probably familiar with the feeling of your ears popping when driving up a steep hill or taking off in an airplane, but have you ever wondered why your ears pop? The Eustachian Tubes When your ears pop, what you’re hearing is your Eustachian (pronounced “you-STAY-shun”) tubes doing their job. The Eustachian tubes connect the…
What’s the Difference Between Pharyngitis, Laryngitis and Tonsillitis?
If you’ve been sick with a virus recently, a sore throat may have been one of your symptoms. There are actually three subtypes of sore throat, and they’re distinguished by what part of the throat is affected. The three types are pharyngitis, laryngitis and tonsillitis. Pharyngitis Your throat, also known as the pharynx, is a…
What Is Sinusitis and How Do I Treat It?
Do you have a stuffy nose that just isn’t getting better? It may have developed into a sinus infection, or sinusitis. Sinus infections cause facial pressure, pain and overall discomfort, often occurring during or after a cold, flu or allergy flare-up. What Is Sinusitis? There are four air-filled chambers inside your face: two behind your…
What to Know About Earwax Impaction Linked to Chronic Ear Pain
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural defense mechanism your body uses to safeguard the ear canal. It traps particles like dust and dirt, helping to keep the inner ear clean and infection-free. Typically, earwax migrates outward on its own. However, if it builds up or becomes stuck, it can result in earwax impaction, sometimes accompanied…
What to Know About Enlarged Adenoids
Adenoids are small pads of tissue located high in the throat, behind the nose. They are part of the immune system and help trap bacteria and viruses entering through the nose. Adenoids typically shrink away by age five. While adenoids are helpful in early childhood, they can sometimes become enlarged and cause health issues that…
What Tests Does an ENT Provider Conduct During an Exam?
When something feels off with your ears, nose or throat, an ENT specialist—also known as an otolaryngologist—is the doctor to see. Approximately 27 million people in the U.S. visit an otolaryngologist each year. These specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, from chronic sinus infections to ear infections. If you’re preparing for your…
How To Prevent Scarring with Eczema
Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema results in skin becoming irritated and inflamed. While eczema itself doesn’t cause scarring, itching and scratching associated with the condition may. Managing your eczema symptoms can help you avoid scratching the area and any resulting scars. Why Scarring Happens Scarring is a natural part of the body’s healing process….
Conditions that Cause Vertigo and How They Are Treated
It’s an odd sensation when you’re standing still, and the room feels like it’s moving. If this happens regularly, you may be experiencing vertigo. Vertigo is one of the most common causes of dizziness and is often the result of an issue with the inner ear. Causes of Vertigo When vertigo is caused by an…