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…
What’s the Difference Between Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism?
It’s common for people to confuse the conditions hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. While both conditions are related to how much hormone the thyroid gland produces, each describes a different problem with the thyroid. We review the differences below. What Is Hyperthyroidism? Hyperthyroidism describes when your thyroid is overactive – it produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms…
Adult Tonsillectomy and What to Expect
While it’s common for children to undergo tonsil removal due to frequent infections or conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, adults may also need this surgery for similar reasons. Known as a tonsillectomy, this procedure can address chronic inflammation, abnormal growths or large tonsils that interfere with breathing. Below, we’ll cover everything you need to know…
How Much Earwax Is Too Much?
Though commonly mistaken as a sign of poor hygiene, the presence of earwax is crucial for the health of the ear. However, it is possible for too much earwax to be present. We answer the question of how much earwax is too much below. Earwax’s Essential Jobs Earwax has several essential jobs: Signs You Have…