What is GERD?

GERD is a relatively common digestive disorder that impacts nearly 20 percent of the United States population. Despite its relatively common occurrence, many people still remain largely unaware of what GERD is, what causes it, and how they can treat it.

What Is GERD? 

GERD is the abbreviation for the medical term gastrointestinal reflux disease. This ailment occurs when stomach acid and other digestive liquids back up into the esophagus. It can also be thought of as acid reflux.

The Causes Of GERD 

The primary cause of GERD is weakness or complete malfunction of bodily structures known as esophageal sphincters. When esophageal sphincters do not operate to their full capacity or fail to close properly, they allow digestive products (like bile and acid) to back up into the esophagus.

That said, there are several factors that might contribute to the weakening of esophageal sphincters, such as:

• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Consistent overeating
• Smoking
• The presence of a hiatal hernia, which is a medical condition where a portion of the impacted person's stomach extends into their diaphragm

GERD may also be caused or exaggerated by lifestyle choices like the consumption of fatty or exceedingly spicy foods, alcohol consumption and the frequent consumption of caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea and soda. In some instances, certain medications may precipitate or exacerbate the onset of GERD.

GERD Symptoms 

Typically, those afflicted with GERD experience frequent bouts of heartburn (a burning sensation in the chest or throat) and indigestion. However, the ailment can produce other fairly common physical manifestations, including:

• Chest tightness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Abdominal pain

GERD might also cause less common symptoms, such as tooth damage or decay brought on by the influx of stomach acid, a persistent sore throat, and respiratory symptoms like coughing and breathing difficulties.

Contact Florida ENT Today 

If you’ve been diagnosed with GERD or believe you might have the condition, the physicians of ENT Florida are here to help. We have offices in Orlando and Kissimmee. For more information about the services we provide, visit us online!

What Can Happen if You Don't Treat a Sinus Infection?

Your sinuses are spaces within your bones that produce mucus and are very susceptible to inflammation.

If they were to become inflamed, they won’t be able to do their job effectively, as the increased swelling will block your sinuses from releasing mucus. Over time, germs and bacteria can fester and cause an infection.

Signs You Have a Sinus Infection 

Symptoms of a sinus infection vary from person to person. It’s important not to ignore the indicators our body gives off when something isn’t quite right. Unfortunately, many people are not able to tell if what they’re feeling is a sinus infection or a common cold. Some common symptoms of an infection are:

• Stuffy nose 
• Cough or congestion 
• Facial tenderness and pressure
• Runny nose
• Loss of smell 
• Fever

Don’t Ignore These Symptoms

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to other harmful illnesses that could have otherwise been prevented. The growing amount of mucus and germs sitting in your sinuses can cause:

• Cavernous Sinus: An infection that spreads to the eye socket and causes a person's eyes to become swollen. It can also affect your vision and potentially lead to blindness. 
• Meningitis or a Brain Abscess: An infection that spreads to the tissues of the brain. In more extreme cases, it can lead to brain damage. 
• Mucoceles: A cyst that can affect one’s hearing.  

When it’s Time to Call a Doctor 

If your symptoms continue for 10 days or more or you get sinus infections frequently (twice a month or more) we recommend calling an ENT specialist right away. The treatment for a sinus infection that’s caught early is usually nothing more than an antibiotic.

What Happens During an Exam for Sinusitis?

Going to the doctor isn’t exactly on anyone’s list of things they enjoy doing. However, it’s the only way to keep yourself healthy and happy. If you’re nervous about going to the doctor or a specialist, knowing what to expect can help ease some of the stress associated with it.

Explaining Your Symptoms 

The first thing your doctor will do is ask you to describe your symptoms. It’s important to be honest about your doctor, explaining what your symptoms are and how long you’ve experienced them.

Tests for Sinusitis

 Diagnosing sinusitis is relatively easy. Typically, it requires nothing more than a few non-invasive observations by your doctor. To evaluate your symptoms, a doctor will typically use a(n):

• Otoscope: This instrument helps a doctor examine a patient’s ear and nose. 
• Light: A small flashlight will help your doctor observe your throat, ear, and nose.
• Hands: Your doctor may also use his hands to press along the sides of your throat.  

During the exam, your doctor will be checking for signs of swelling and congestion.

Treating Sinusitis 

If your doctor determines that you do in fact have sinusitis, he or she will likely prescribe:

• Antibiotics: If your sinusitis was caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics will help kill any viruses living in your sinuses. 
• Painkillers: Over the counter pain medications, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help ease any discomfort caused by sinusitis as the infection naturally works its way out of your system. 
• Decongestants: Decongestants, either in the form of pills or nasal sprays, can also help ease discomfort and break down mucus. 
• Allergy Medications: Because some acute sinusitis cases can be caused by uncontrolled allergies, allergy medication may treat the underlying cause. 

If you have any questions about our office or are interested in making an appointment, please give us a call at 877-EAR-NOSE or visit us online for more information. To keep up with the latest from our office, be sure to visit our Facebook page.

What is an Otolaryngologist?

Otolaryngologists are specialists with skills in surgical and medical management. They treat patients who have diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat and other areas around the head and neck. Otolaryngologists are popularly known as ENT physicians. People typically visit and otolaryngologist when they have specific issues with their sinuses, nose, ears, mouth, throat, larynx and other structures of the face and neck.

Why Go To One? 

Otolaryngologists are the preferred choice for these specific areas because people need more than general treatment, which is what they receive from primary care physicians. An ENT will take a close look at your concerns and get to the bottom of what is causing the problem.

What Is The Most Common Treatment? 

One of the main reasons why people visit an otolaryngologist is for hearing problems. Whether due to old age, infection, noise, physical damage, or nerve disorders, hearing loss is a common problem here in our country.

Allergy Care

Another area ENT doctors commonly deal with is allergies. Otolaryngologists can provide allergy shots or medication to help patients battle laryngitis, soreness, chronic sinusitis and many more ailments caused by allergies.

Facial Reconstructive And Plastic Surgery 

Sometimes issues with one’s face and neck are more cosmetic than medical and requires reconstructive surgery. Otolaryngologists are trained to help with those requests. ENT specialists can help fix a cleft palate, drooping eyelids, a deviated septum, and many other deformities or requests.

Other Reasons To Schedule An Appointment 

Special concerns such as a lump in the head or neck, loss of smell, loss of voice, or issues with swallowing should also be brought to the attention of an otolaryngologists.

If you have any questions about our office or are interested in making an appointment, please give us a call at 877-EAR-NOSE or visit www.floridaent.com for more information. To keep up with the latest from our office, be sure to visit our Facebook page.