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Salivary Glands
The salivary glands, located in the mouth and throat, are responsible for producing saliva to keep your food moist, making it easier to chew and swallow. Saliva also aids in digestion, keeps your teeth from decaying and contains antibodies that keep your mouth clean and germ-free. Disorders of the salivary glands can interfere with these…
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Postnasal Drip
Your body produces mucus constantly throughout the day – one to two quarts, to be exact. It mixes with saliva and is swallowed, a normal and harmless response that you usually don’t notice. When excess mucus is created or it is thicker than usual, it becomes noticeable as it runs down the back of the…
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Hoarseness
Hoarseness is an inflammation of the larynx that results in a change in the voice, making it sound breathy, raspy, scratchy or strained. There may be changes in volume and pitch, as well. Hoarseness falls under the medical category of dysphonia, which refers to voice impairment or any sort of difficulty speaking. What Causes Hoarseness?…
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Airway Problems
Airway problems are often the result of obstructions of the airway, consisting of the throat, voice box and trachea. These blockages prevent air from entering the lungs either partially or completely, leading to breathing difficulties and a variety of other complications, some potentially life-threatening. What Causes Airway Problems? Airway problems can occur in the…
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Turbinate Reduction
The human body contains three pairs of turbinates – long, curled nasal bones that warm and humidify inhaled air and regulate breathing through the nasal passages. The turbinates are classified as inferior, middle and superior and all are divided by the septum. When they become swollen and enlarged, they can interfere with breathing. Treating Swollen…
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Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are benign growths that occur on the mucosal lining of the nasal passages. They are typically small and though noncancerous can still cause obstructions of the sinuses, leading to congestion, breathing problems and sinus infections. Signs & Symptoms of Nasal Polyps Some nasal polyps are tiny and cause few problems. Others produce symptoms…
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Nasal Obstructions
Nasal obstructions are blockages of the nasal cavity that impede airflow in and out of the nose. Either one or both nostrils may be affected. Most nasal obstructions are temporary, caused by colds, allergies, sinus infections, or medications, while others require medical intervention. Types of Nasal Obstruction There are several different types of nasal obstruction.…
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Mastoid Surgery
In addition to pain and discomfort, a middle ear infection can cause tiny air cells in the mastoid bone to fill up with pus. As the infection spreads, potentially reaching the brain, the bone is destroyed, resulting in hearing loss. If antibiotics are unsuccessful in clearing up the infection, then mastoid surgery may be needed. …
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Inspire
Approximately 18 million Americans experience obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a sleep disorder that can cause serious problems such as excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue, memory loss and lack of concentration. These individuals have an increased risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure. While PAP therapy is the preferred treatment method, not everybody can…
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RhinAer Procedure
What is Chronic Rhinitis? Chronic rhinitis results in a persistently runny nose and postnasal drip, congestion, coughing, itching and sneezing. While some symptoms may be related to allergies, symptoms from chronic rhinitis may occur all year. This challenging condition can negatively impact your life in countless ways. And trying to find an effective treatment can be frustrating.…