Otolaryngologists are experts in conditions that affect the ears, nose and throat (ENT). The purpose of this post is to focus specifically on some of the common throat disorders that an ENT physician is qualified to treat.
Acid Reflux
Acid reflux describes when digestive acids in the stomach flow back up the lower esophageal sphincter and into the throat and mouth. Also known as heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), this condition affects approximately one in five adults in the U.S.
Acid reflux can be treated with lifestyle modifications, over-the-counter medications, prescription medications and, in severe cases, surgery.
Adenoiditis & Tonsillitis
The adenoids and tonsils are glands in the back of the throat that capture bacteria and viruses and prevent infections. Unfortunately, sometimes these glands can become infected themselves, causing symptoms like sore throat, painful swallowing, coughing, headache, fever, chills and swelling.
Sometimes antibiotics are used, but in severe cases, surgery is necessary.
Dysphagia (Difficulty Swallowing)
This condition is more common in older adults, but can affect anyone of any age. If you have difficulty swallowing, you may also experience hoarse voice, acid reflux, discomfort or pain while swallowing and slow eating.
An ENT physician can recommend changes in techniques to help make swallowing easier.
Snoring/Sleep Apnea
Loud snoring is the most common symptom of sleep apnea, a condition that causes pauses in breathing during sleep. This condition can lead to daytime conditions like dry mouth, fatigue, irritability and more.
Sleep apnea can be treated with lifestyle modifications, oral appliances, or a CPAP machine.
Strep Throat
Streptococcal bacteria can cause a condition called strep throat. This can cause symptoms such as sore throat, painful swallowing, fever, swollen lymph nodes and white or yellow patches on the throat.
Strep throat is very contagious and needs to be treated quickly. It is treated with antibiotics.
Thyroid Disorders
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck just above the collarbone. Its job is to produce hormones that circulate through the body. Sometimes, the thyroid produces too much or not enough hormones.
When this is the case, medication or surgery may be necessary to treat the thyroid disorder.
For more information about these or other throat disorders, or to schedule an appointment with an expert ENT physician, call Palmetto ENT & Allergy today.