Sore Throat
Sore throats are not only painful, but also one of the top reasons for trips to the doctor and sick days taken from work or school. Anyone who has ever suffered from a sore throat knows just how miserable it can be. But there’s good news – relief is just around the corner! If you’re…
Reflux
Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a chronic digestive condition that causes painful heartburn and regurgitation for millions of Americans every year. It occurs when the contents of the stomach seep backward into the esophagus. What Causes Reflux? Normally, following a meal, a valve on your esophagus – the sphincter – closes, preventing…
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?…
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…
Sinus Surgery
Sinus infections bring pain and misery to millions of Americans. When the condition is chronic or recurs frequently and medications do little to provide relief, then sinus surgery is often recommended. There are a couple of different procedures available, each with the same goal in mind: to remove nasal obstructions and enlarge the sinus openings,…
Rhinitis
Rhinitis is similar to hay fever, but is caused by something other than an allergen. Dubbed non-allergic rhinitis to differentiate the two, it produces cold-like symptoms that can leave you feeling miserable and worn-down. It may take allergy testing to rule out hay fever and accurately diagnose non-allergic rhinitis. What Causes Rhinitis? Rhinitis is common…
Sinusitis
Sinusitis Symptoms Do you suffer from any of these symptoms? If you said “yes” to more than one of the symptoms we listed above, you may be suffering from sinusitis. What Will Happen During Your Appointment After reviewing your symptoms, the doctor will ask you whether you have ever broken or severely injured your nose…
Allergy Testing
The only way to treat your allergy symptoms is to determine exactly what is causing them. This is done through a series of allergy tests. What Is a Skin Prick Test? A skin prick test is the most common form of allergy testing. This test involves placing a small drop of an allergen extract on…
Allergy Symptoms
Allergy symptoms differ depending on the type of allergy. Allergy symptoms typically involve the airways, sinuses, nasal passages and skin. They can range from mild to severe. What Are the Symptoms of Anaphylaxis? Some patients may develop anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal reaction that causes swelling in the throat and breathing difficulties. Symptoms may develop within…
Allergy Treatments
Allergies are a widespread condition that affects approximately one out of every five Americans. They occur throughout the year in all types of climates and can be triggered by pollen, mold spores, dust mites, animal dander, food, chemicals, medications and other environmental irritants. With so many possible causes, finding the source of your allergic response…