Allergies & Hay Fever: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
Why does the body develop allergies? What are common allergens? When should a provider be consulted? and more… Millions of Americans suffer from nasal allergies, commonly known as hay fever. Often fragrant flowers are blamed for the uncomfortable symptoms, yet they are rarely the cause; their pollens are too heavy to be airborne. An ear,…
The Effects of Secondhand Smoke
What is secondhand smoke? Who is at risk? Effects on children… Secondhand smoke is a combination of the smoke from a burning cigarette and the smoke exhaled by a smoker. Also known as environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), it can be recognized easily by its distinctive odor. ETS contaminates the air and is retained in clothing,…
How the Voice Works
We rely on our voices every day to interact with others, and a healthy voice is critical for clear communication. But just as we walk without thinking about it, we usually speak without thinking how our body makes it happen. However, knowing how we make sound is useful to maintaining the health and effectiveness of…
GERD and LPR: Insight into Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment
What are the symptoms of GERD and LPR? Who gets GERD or LPR? How are GERD and LPR diagnosed and treated? and more… What is GERD? Gastroesophageal reflux disease, often referred to as GERD, occurs when acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus. Normally, food travels from the mouth, down through the esophagus…
Tips for Healthy Voices
Voice problems usually are associated with hoarseness (also known as roughness), instability, or problems with voice endurance. If you are unsure if you have an unhealthy voice, ask yourself the following: Has your voice become hoarse or raspy? Does your throat often feel raw, achy or strained? Has it become an effort to talk? Do…
Pediatric Obesity and Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders
Today in the United States, studies estimate that 34 percent of U.S. adults are overweight and an additional 31 percent (approximately 60 million) are obese. Combined, approximately 127 million Americans are overweight or obese. Some 42 years ago, 13 percent of Americans were obese, and in 1980 15 percent were considered obese. Alarmingly, the number…
How to Keep Your Voice Healthy
There are many different reasons why your voice may sound hoarse or abnormal from time to time, and some of these reasons are things that you can not really control. An example would be catching a common cold virus that causes laryngitis. Sure, you can wash your hands frequently and try to avoid people with…
How Do Allergies Affect Your Ears, Nose, and Throat?
Does your child have allergies? Allergies can cause many ear, nose, and throat symptoms in children, but allergies can be difficult to separate from other causes. Here are some clues that allergy may be affecting your child. Children with nasal allergies often have a history of other allergic tendencies (or atopy). These may include early…
Common Problems That Can Affect Your Voice
It may come as a surprise to you the variety of medical conditions that can lead to voice problems. The most common causes of hoarseness and vocal difficulties are outlined below. If you become hoarse frequently or notice voice change for an extended period of time, please see your Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose, and Throat provider)…
What is a Voice?
“Voice” is the sound made by vibration of the vocal cords caused by air passing out through the larynx bringing the cords closer together. Your voice is an extremely valuable resource and is the most commonly used form of communication. Our voice is invaluable for both our social interaction as well as for most people’s…