Throat
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…
Peritonsillar Abscess (PTA)
A peritonsillar abscess, also known as a PTA, is collection of pus that is formed behind the tonsils. Unlike tonsillitis, which is more common in children, a peritonsillar abscess occurs just as frequently in adults as it does in children. Causes of PTA A peritonsillar abscess forms as a result of another infection, such as…
Tongue Tie
Tongue-tie or ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth that restricts the tongue’s range of motion. This can cause difficulties with sticking out your tongue, eating, maintaining dental health, speaking/articulating appropriately and swallowing. It can also interfere when a child is breastfeeding, making it hard for the baby to suck and painful for the the…
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…
Chronic Cough
A chronic cough is defined as one that lasts eight weeks or longer. More than simply an annoyance, a lingering cough can disrupt your sleep and affect your work. It may be accompanied by other symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, runny nose, congestion and heartburn. If you have a persistent cough that doesn’t…
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…
Lump in the Throat
Globus is the medical term for a sensation of a lump in the throat where no true lump exists. It is extremely common, can occur at any age and in either sex. What is globus and what are the usual symptoms? Symptoms can vary and fluctuate, but are typically centered in the middle and base…
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. ENT physicians often treat reflux when the symptoms affect the throat, causing chronic sore throat, taste disorders, hoarse…