Airway Disorders
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…
Reflux
What is GERD? Gastroesophageal reflux is a chronic disease that occurs when stomach contents flow back (reflux) into the food pipe (esophagus). It is a very common problem. It is usually caused by failure of the muscle valve (called the lower esophageal sphincter) between the stomach and the esophagus to close properly. The backwash of…
Silent Reflux/Laryngopharyngeal Reflux
Silent Reflux Can Cause Hoarseness Trouble swallowingExcess mucusThroat clearingSensation of a lump in the throatChronic coughBreathing problemsVocal cord scarringPost-nasal drip What is Silent Reflux? What is Laryngopharyngeal Reflux? Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) is a term that refers to the backflow of food or stomach acid coming all the way back into the larynx (voice box) or…
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…
Sore Throat
A sore throat is a painful but common affliction that everyone suffers from on occasion. It may be the first sign of a cold, the result of strained vocal cords or a symptom of a more serious condition such as strep throat. As miserable as a sore throat can make you feel, in many cases…
Thyroid
When certain conditions interfere with normal thyroid production, surgical removal of the thyroid gland is performed. This is usually done when thyroid cancer has been detected, an otherwise benign thyroid nodule grows so large it causes problems or hyperthyroidism (a disorder in which excess thyroid hormone is produced) does not respond to treatment with medications…
Tonsils & Adenoids
The tonsils and adenoids are part of the lymphatic system and serve as defenders of the immune system, protecting your body by preventing germs and bacteria from entering through your mouth and nose. Occasionally, they will develop problems themselves, requiring the attention of an ENT specialist. Tonsillitis Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils that…
UPPP
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) is a surgical procedure to remove excess tissue in the throat in order to widen the airway, making it easier to breathe. It’s designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea, a sleeping disorder that can cause serious health problems over time. Why UPPP? UPPP involves removal of tissues that may include the uvula, soft…
Parathyroid Adenoma
What is a Parathyroid Adenoma? A parathyroid adenoma is a benign tumor involving one of the parathyroid glands. There are four parathyroid glands and these are located on the back of the thyroid gland in your neck. The function of the parathyroid glands is to produce a hormone called parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates the…
Hyperparathyroidism
What is a Parathyroid Gland? There are four parathyroid glands and these are located on the back of the thyroid gland in your neck. The function of the parathyroid glands is to produce a hormone called parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates the level of calcium in your blood. What is Hyperparathyroidism? Hyperparathyroidism is an excess…
Thyroid Cancer
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones used to regulate your body’s metabolism. Though relatively rare, thyroid cancer occurs when abnormal cells multiply in the thyroid gland. Fortunately, patients with thyroid cancer frequently do well because it is usually detected early and responds well to treatment. It is important to…
Thyroid Nodules
Thyroid nodules are lumps in the thyroid gland that may be solid or filled with fluid. They are usually noncancerous and rarely cause problems. In some cases, they may enlarge to the point of causing breathing and swallowing difficulties or stimulating overproduction of thyroid hormone. Thyroid Nodule Indications Many times, you may be completely unaware…
Irritable Larynx Syndrome
What Is Irritable Larynx Syndrome (ILS)? Irritable larynx syndrome (ILS) encompasses a range of conditions including chronic throat clearing, chronic cough, paradoxical vocal cord movement (PVFM)/vocal cord dysfunction (VCD), and laryngospasm. In ILS, the larynx (voice box) becomes very sensitive to stimuli leading to episodes of unnecessary and counterproductive vocal fold closure (PVFM and laryngospasm),…