How Does Immunotherapy Work?

Environmental allergies are tough to cope with, especially in the spring. If you are tired of taking daily medications with limited results, you may be a candidate for immunotherapy.

Allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy) are the most common form of immunotherapy. They can be used as a long-term treatment for seasonal, indoor and insect sting allergies.

Allergy shots work by getting your body used to what you are allergic to slowly, with the hope that you will develop an immunity or tolerance to the allergen. The process typically takes place in two phases, the build-up phase and the maintenance phase. The build-up phase involves a small amount of the allergen being injected into the upper arm once or twice a week for a few months. The dosage is gradually increased at each visit. The length of the build-up phase depends entirely on your body’s reaction. Once you have reached the effective dose, typically the most you can handle without showing symptoms, the maintenance phase will begin. The dosage is no longer increased at each visit and the number of shots is decreased. Once you are in the maintenance phase you will only receive an allergy shot once every month; this phase can last for three to five years.

Since allergy shots contain a substance you are allergic to, there are some risks involved. Swelling and redness usually develop at the site of injection but are quick to clear up. Sneezing, nasal congestion and hives may develop, as well as more severe reactions such as wheezing or chest tightness. Anaphylaxis, the most serious reaction, rarely occurs. Since these shots are administered in our clinic by a medical professional, any reaction that does occur can be easily treated.

Allergy symptoms will not improve overnight; symptoms typically improve over the first year of treatment and continue to improve over the next few years. The shots may even decrease symptoms for other allergens and prevent new allergies from developing.

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is another type of allergy treatment that is gaining popularity. SLIT is used to treat allergies to specific grass pollens and ragweed, without the pain and common side effects. Tablets or drops are placed under the tongue for one to two minutes and then swallowed as they dissolve. The process is repeated three to seven days a week for at least three years. After the first dose, the tablets or drops are even safe enough to be taken at home.

If you are interested in ending your allergy symptoms once and for all, contact your allergist.

Parkinson’s Disease and Speech Therapy

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that disrupts the nerve cells in the brain responsible for dopamine production, affecting movement. Symptoms develop gradually; minor hand tremors are a common early sign, with patients eventually experiencing an increase in tremors, stiffness in the joints, muscle rigidity, slow movement, gait and balance problems, changes in speech and writing ability, and swallowing difficulty. There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but treatment can help reduce symptoms and improve the patient’s overall quality of life.

A speech-language pathologist (SLP) is trained to assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, cognitive, and communication disorders. The SLP can help people with Parkinson’s disease maintain their ability to communicate effectively and improve speaking skills. Common speech impairments associated with the disorder include an inability to pronounce words correctly, hoarseness, strained voice, and slurred speech.

These symptoms are the result of weakened muscles in the larynx, tongue, mouth, lips, and throat. Speech therapy focuses on the following areas:

• Improving voice quality, loudness, articulation, inflection, and speech intelligibility.
• Teaching nonverbal communication skills. This includes utilization of residual speech, expressions, and gestures.
• Improving communication techniques to assist with daily activities.

The SLP will recommend specific exercises to help Parkinson’s patients improve vocal function. These may include:

• Repetition to improve muscle control.
• Vocal stretches.
• Proper breathing techniques.
• Vocal function techniques.
• Singing therapy.

Additionally, there are techniques patients can try at home in order to improve and enhance communication, such as:

• Choosing a quiet environment.
• Speaking slowly and articulately.
• Communicating face-to-face with other individuals.
• Relying on short phrases.
• Maintaining a comfortable posture.
• Resting your voice prior to communication.
• Writing down what you say if the other person has trouble understanding.
• Discussing the conversation topic in advance.
• Spelling out words to enhance understanding.

There are a number of tools and devices that can help Parkinson’s patients communicate, as well. Palatal lifts are retainer-like dental tools that lift the soft palate, preventing air from escaping from the nose during speech. Personal amplifiers can increase volume, and TTY telephone relay systems utilize a keyboard-equipped telephone and rely on a relay operator to read the conversation out loud.

If you or a loved one is experiencing Parkinson’s disease that has impacted communication and speech abilities, contact your local SLP today for help.

These are NOT Your Mother’s Hearing Devices

Remember the days of bulky hearing devices that stuck out from the ear and whistled whenever anyone got too close? Those days are long gone.

Today’s hearing devices have advanced to include numerous benefits above and beyond basic hearing assistance. Those living with hearing loss today can enjoy:

Discrete Design: Today’s hearing devices are extremely discrete, often smaller than a watch battery! Even behind-the-ear hearing devices are smaller than ever before while some in-the-canal style hearing devices are 100% invisible to the outside observed.

Advanced Technology: Recent advances in digital technology have created devices that provide a more accurate simulation of the way the ear works. While first-time hearing aid users will still experience an adjustment period, sounds come across clearer and more naturally through todays devices than ever before.

Automatic Adjustments: Many of today’s hearing devices feature automatic adjustment to changing listening environments. Whether riding a motorcycle, chatting in a crowded restaurant, or listening to a favorite album with friends, these hearing devices can automatically adjust. This reduces the need for manual operation by the hearing device user. These devices may not be suitable for all types and severities of hearing loss.

Adaptive Dual Microphones: Communication clarity is made possible by microphones that focus on the sound source while reducing or eliminating irritating and distracting background noise.

Open Fit Technology: Previous generations of hearing devices caused a stuffed up or “talking in the barrel” feeling. Many of today’s devices feature a slim design that leaves the ear canal as open as possible. This style is available depending on the type and severity of hearing loss, and results in comfort and clarity of speech.

Feedback Management Technology: No one enjoys a whistling hearing aid. Thanks to modern feedback management technology, today’s hearing devices can recognize feedback and squelch it right when it starts, or even before it has begun.

Cellphone and Bluetooth® Compatibility: Many of today’s cellphones are hearing aid compatible (HAC). If your phone has an HAC label, you’re in the clear. Cell phones with a microphone rating of M3 or M4 work well with hearing devices. If your hearing device has a telecoil, look for a phone with a telecoil rating of T3 or T4.

To determine how well your hearing device pairs with your phone, check the rating on both devices. A hearing device is rated from M1 to M4. A telecoil is rated from T1 to T4. When you combine the two ratings, the higher the rating the better the sound. A combined rating of 6 is excellent, 5 is average, and 4 is usable.

Getting Help for Your Hyperacusis

Hyperacusis is a heightened sensitivity to everyday sounds that most people can tolerate easily. A person suffering from hyperacusis may find sounds like a running dishwasher, a nearby conversation or even the shuffling of papers unpleasantly loud or painful. For some, the sensitivity is only to certain frequencies or pitches.

Hyperacusis is rare, affecting only one in 50,000 people. This number is higher among tinnitus sufferers, however, affecting about one in 1,000. Hyperacusis can affect people of any age, and it can occur in one or both ears. Untreated hyperacusis can cause social isolation, phonophobia (fear of sounds), and depression.

It is extremely uncommon for someone to be born with hyperacusis. Hyperacusis can be caused by a number of diseases including Bell’s palsy, Lyme disease, Meniere’s disease, head injury, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) syndrome and noise induced hearing loss. Hyperacusis is also linked with neurologic conditions such as PTSD, epilepsy, depression, migraines, cerebral palsy and autistic spectrum disorder (ASD).

For those whose hyperacusis is the result of trauma to the head or hearing system, symptoms may go away as the injury heals. Identifying the underlying cause is always the first step in treating hyperacusis.

Some suffering from hyperacusis may seek relief by wearing earplugs or earmuffs. While this may help in the short-term, it actually decreases the already poor tolerance of noise, increasing sensitivity in the long run. This result is most obvious immediately after removing the ear protection.

An effective treatment option for hyperacusis is sound desensitization, a form of therapy where an audiologist works with the patient and exposes them to specific types of noise over time. This treatment may take six months to a year, and may be even longer for certain patients.

If you suspect you may have hyperacusis, you should seek an evaluation by an audiologist who will conduct a full audiologic evaluation, including a hearing test. The audiologist will take a record of your medical history to accurately diagnose your condition and determine your Loudness Discomfort Levels (LDL). They will then recommend an appropriate treatment plan, tailored to meet your needs.

Understanding Feeding and Swallowing Disorders

A feeding disorder is defined as a delay in the development of eating and drinking skills and is characterized by the inability to gather and/or suck, chew or swallow food effectively. A swallowing disorder, also known as dysphagia, references any difficulties related to the management of saliva, the intake of medicines and the introduction, transfer and transport of food and liquid from the mouth into the stomach through the esophagus. The most common symptom of dysphagia is the inability to swallow solid food without the sensation of the food becoming “stuck” or regurgitation.

Causes of feeding and swallowing disorders include:

• Autism
• Neck and head abnormalities or muscle weakness in those areas
• Cerebral palsy, meningitis or other nervous system disorders
• Gastrointestinal conditions (e.g., reflux, "short gut" syndrome)
• Heart disease
• Low birth rate
• Cleft lip and/or palate
• Respiratory or airway difficulties
• Medications that may cause lethargy or decreased appetite
• Problems with parent-child interactions at meal times

Severe feeding and swallowing disorders may result in malnutrition, poor hydration and reduced respiratory health.

Treatments by a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) for a feeding disorder will consist of the development of a behavioral feeding program that focuses on learning a new behavior (i.e. learning to chew), practicing the new behaviors and completing the learned behavior with different foods in a variety of environments.

The SLP will make the diagnosis for a feeding or swallowing disorder after a review of symptoms and medical conditions, the strength and movement of the muscles involved in the swallowing process, observing eating and drinking behaviors and performing special tests as necessary. Treatments for swallowing disorders include recommendations for exercises and positions to improve swallowing and suggestions for foods and liquids with textures that are easier to swallow.

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.

How Diabetes is Connected to Hearing Loss

Diabetes can cause blurry vision, hunger, thirst and fatigue; a lesser known associated condition is hearing loss. In fact, the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) found hearing loss to be about twice as common in adults with diabetes compared to those without the disease.

This study is alarming to many otolaryngologists and audiologists because there is no recommendation for hearing loss screenings in a diabetes care regimen. Awareness is critical in increasing screening and discovering diabetes patients who suffer from hearing loss. Many doctors fail to recommend a hearing test at the annual checkup of diabetes patients. It’s important for those with diabetes to take an active role in their health care and seek treatment for any associated conditions they may be at risk for.

"Hearing loss may be an under-recognized complication of diabetes,” senior author Catherine Cowie, Ph.D. said. “As diabetes becomes more common, the disease may become a more significant contributor to hearing loss. Our study found a strong and consistent link between hearing impairment and diabetes using a number of different outcomes."

The reason for this connection is not definitive, but some evidence is suggestive. The NIDCD study reports diabetes may lead to hearing loss by damaging the nerves and blood vessels of the inner ear.

Afflicting nearly 21 million people in the United States, diabetes is a major cause of heart disease and stroke and the most common cause of blindness, kidney failure and lower limb amputations in adults. Pre-diabetes, which causes no symptoms, affects about 54 million adults in the United States. This high incidence of pre-diabetes and the connection between dangerous associated conditions are encouraging many to evaluate their risk of developing diabetes. See your doctor if you think you might be pre-diabetic or if you suffer from diabetes and believe you may have the beginning stages of hearing loss.

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.

Are Allergies Hereditary?

Do you suffer from severe allergies? If so, you may be able to blame your parents (just this once). If just one of your parents has allergies, there’s a 50/50 chance yours were inherited. If both of your parents have the same allergy, those odds go up to about 75 percent.

Are Allergies Hereditary? 

Yes and no. Though allergies can be passed down from parent to child, they’re not always. And more amazingly, allergy-free parents can give birth to children who have severe allergies. So if allergies aren’t always inherited, how do you “get” them?

Scientists think a few other factors come into play when it comes to why someone has an allergy. In addition to genetics, your environment, air pollution levels, and diet all play a role in whether or not you’ll have allergies.

Most Common Allergies 

An allergy is really just your body’s immune system mistaking a harmless substance for a dangerous pathogen. When you eat, drink, smell, or touch something you’re allergic to, your body responds by attacking it, rather than letting it pass through (which is what it really should do).

The most common allergies are:

• Drug allergy 
• Food allergy
• Contact dermatitis
• Seasonal allergies 

Signs and Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction 

What makes allergies so interesting is that their severity ranges a lot from person to person. Two people who are allergic to the same thing, like almonds, could have completely different reactions once they come in contact with one. For example, one person could experience nothing more than itchy hands, while the other person’s throat could begin to close.

Most often, signs of an allergic reaction are:

• Trouble breathing 
• Wheezing 
• Sneezing 
• Coughing
• Skin irritation 

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.

Most Common Allergy Types

Your immune system has one of the most important jobs in your body — protecting you from bacteria and viruses. But what if your immune system works too hard? Ironically enough, that’s not a good thing. If your body mistakes everyday things like pollen, grass, or peanuts as foreign objects attacking your body, it responds by attacking back. When this happens, it’s called an allergic reaction.

What is an Allergy?

An allergy is an abnormal or damaging response by your immune system to a foreign substance. Essentially, it’s an unusual reaction to what we’d consider a normal thing.

Common Allergy Types

Though it’s technically possible to be allergic to anything, most people’s allergies fall into these four categories.

Food Allergy

Food allergies are very popular, affecting roughly 5 percent of the world population. What makes food allergies unique is that the severity of an attack varies wildly from person to person. Some people can have a reaction if they just smell something they’re allergic to, while others have to actually eat the food. Symptoms also range from mild (like a numb tongue) to severe (throat closure).

Drug Allergy 

People with a drug allergy experience symptoms regardless of if the medication comes in pill, liquid, or injection form. The most common reactions are skin irritations, like a rash, hives, itching, and swelling.

Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies are typically the ones you hear about the most often. The most common seasonal allergens are:

• Mold 
• Trees
• Grass
• Weeds 
• Pollen

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy rash that’s caused by direct contact with something you’re allergic to. Unlike something like poison ivy (which affects everyone it touches) contact dermatitis is not contagious.

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.

Why It's Time to Put Down the Nasal Spray

Nasal sprays can provide relief when you need it the most. These sprays generally include ingredients such as saline, decongestants, antihistamines, and steroids. People tend to use nasal sprays when they have seasonal allergies, a sinus infection, or a cold. But are sprays almost too good? Because they provide instant relief, people tend to overuse them.

When to Use Nasal Spray 

Nasal spray is commonly used to open the sinuses when someone has a sinus infection or cold. Decongestant sprays do this by shrinking swollen blood vessels in nasal passages. By reducing the size of blood vessels, spray also lowers the amount of inflammation in a person’s sinuses, allowing them to breathe easily.

Can I Overuse Nasal Sprays? 

Simply put, yes! Decongestant nasal sprays should not be used for more than three days in a row. If they are used for longer than three days, decongestant nasal sprays can cause a condition known as rhinitis medicamentosa (i.e., rebound congestion). A person with rhinitis medicamentosa will experience congestion as a result of the medication in nasal sprays (rather than a cold or sinus infection).

The Effects of Using too Much Nasal Spray 

Overuse of nasal sprays may lead a person to be congested more often than not. People can also become reliant on decongestant nasal sprays if used too often. These individuals may need to take increased amounts of nasal spray in order for the medication to work.

• Stinging
• Increased mucus production
• Burning
• Sneezing
• Dryness in the nasal cavities
• Difficulty staying asleep or falling asleep
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Headache

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.

4 Medical Conditions that Can Diminish Your Sense of Smell

Anosmia is the loss of a person's sense of smell. Although the condition can be permanent, other cases can be reversed with proper medical treatment. However, it is important to first identify the underlying problem before establishing a course of action.

Is Your Sense of Smell Really That Important?

Yes! This sense may not seem as important as vision or hearing, but a disruption in the olfactory system can still diminish your quality of life. In addition to enhancing a person's appetite and eating pleasures, the sense of smell can help you detect potential threats that are not obvious to the eyes or ears (think a gas leak or something burning on the stove).

Conditions That Can Diminish Your Sense of Smell 

• Diabetes: Nearly half of all people with diabetes have a diminished sense of smell and taste. However, most people don’t even realize it because it’s so gradual.
• Tumors of the brain of the sinus cavity: Cancerous tumors can damage olfactory nerve cells and affect your ability to smell. 
• Epilepsy: Not only can epilepsy diminish your sense of smell, but it can also convince you of (usually unpleasant) smells that are not really there. 
• Old age: Aging is the most common reason for a deterioration in the olfactory system, with the sense usually beginning to decline after a person reaches 60. 

Seeking Medical Attention

Disruptions in the ability to smell often go away with the precipitating illness, but a persistent condition will probably require medical attention. The attending physician will first review the patient's medical status and may perform certain tests, including a CT scan, before making a diagnosis. If a loss of the sense appears suddenly and is accompanied by other health problems, such as dizziness or weakness, the patient should seek emergency care.

Treating Olfactory Disorders

No treatment is available to revive a person's sense of smell. However, some of the underlying causes of anosmia, including allergies and sinusitis, can be treated with medications. In cases where the loss of smell is related to a physical deformity, such as a deviated septum, the patient may require surgery. It is important that those suffering from anosmia describe their specific symptoms to their doctors to ensure that they receive the treatment they require. The Florida Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center can help those who are having difficulties with their sense of smell.

Tips for Dating with Hearing Loss

First dates are stressful enough. Add hearing loss into the mix and you might decide living the life of a hermit is the easier choice. But there’s no need to shy away from a fun evening out and getting to know somebody better. Even if you’re in a committed relationship, the occasional date night is a great way to keep the romance alive, and a much-needed break from the daily routine. Hearing loss does not have to put a damper on your dating life; with a little extra preparation, you can have a great time.

The following tips should help:

1. Remember, location is everything. Probably the most important factor in making sure your date is successful involves the location. Whether you’re going to a restaurant, bar, or coffee shop, you’ll want to choose a place that is relatively quiet. It might not be a bad idea to check it out for yourself first, especially if it’s a venue where you have never been before. Another factor to consider is lighting, especially if you rely on lip reading. If all else fails, suggest a romantic evening at home; there’s nothing like a home-cooked meal to impress a potential paramour.

2. Make an early reservation. Restaurants tend to be most crowded later in the evening. Go early to beat the crowds, and you’ll be rewarded with a quieter atmosphere (not to mention the possibility of scoring an excellent Happy Hour deal). Getting there early will also increase your chances of finding a good table away from the noise (e.g., kitchen or loudspeakers). If you are unable to arrive early, you can always request a quiet booth in the corner when making your reservation.

3. Suggest alternatives to the traditional “dinner and a movie.” As mentioned above, a quiet date at home is often more pleasing than a night out on the town. If watching a movie there, you can turn on the closed-captioning or subtitles feature. An added bonus: no sticky floors from spilled soda! Other options include a hike, visit to the beach, or picnic in the park. Breaking out of the mold is sure to impress your date and win you points for originality.

4. Wear your hearing devices with confidence. The stigma that once accompanied hearing devices is long gone. If you wear them, don’t try to hide that fact; chances are your date will be curious about them, opening up an interesting conversational topic. It’s better to wear your hearing devices and have a good time, instead of straining to hear what your date is saying and possibly misunderstanding key information.

5. Don’t be afraid to provide communication tips. Remember, you’re both there to have a good time; your date will appreciate the opportunity to make it easier for you to follow along. You might want to mention maintaining eye contact, speaking clearly, and not talking while chewing. That last one applies to everybody regardless of their hearing ability!

Understanding Different Types of Hearing Aids

Communication is an essential part of our well-being. Possessing the ability to interact, listen and communicate with our friends and loved ones is an integral part of our lives. It’s only when we are no longer able to do so, that we discover how much we have taken something like the ability to hear, for granted.

Facing the deterioration of your hearing can be a struggle. That’s why at Florida Ear, Nose and Throat, we are here to help. Allow our expertise as hearing professionals help guide you through the overwhelming process of deciding which device is best for you.

BTE Hearing Aids 

Behind the ear (BTE) hearing aids are the most common, chosen by more than 90% of those who experience hearing loss. The BTE hearing aid is typically the largest in size, hooking behind the ear with a tube connecting the earmold into the inside of your ear canal.

Pros

• Less feedback and greater amplification 
• Easily handled 
• Child-friendly 
• Suitable for a wide range of hearing loss 
• Extended battery life 

Cons

• Visible 
• Larger in size 

ITE Hearing Aids

In the ear (ITE) hearing aids are unobtrusive, lightweight, and can be worn with little to no visibility. As the second most popular hearing aid, the device also allows for easy phone use.

Pros 

• Discreet
• Functional 
• Advanced hearing loss 
• Superior sound quality 

Cons

• Ear wax build-up 
• Feedback 

RIC or RITE Hearing Aids

Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) and Receiver-In-The-Ear (RITE) utilize a unique strategy as their microphone, amplifier, and receiver components are housed separately. The devises have the capability to exceptionally amplify high-pitched tones, making them a great choice for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Pros 

• Unobtrusive 
• Little to no feedback 
• Natural sound 

Cons 

• Higher in price 
• Susceptible to moisture and clogging 

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.

Understanding Childhood Ear Infections

Ask any pediatrician which type of after hours call they handle most frequently, and the answer is likely to be otitis media, the medical term for a middle ear infection. Aside from the common cold, ear infections are the most commonly diagnosed childhood illness, affecting three out of four children by the time they reach the age of three.

What is an Ear Infection? 

Ear infections occur when fluid fills the space between the eardrum and inner ear. Children are especially vulnerable because the Eustachian tube, responsible for draining fluid and equalizing pressure, is less developed in young children, and is prone to blockages and swelling when mucus and other fluids back up in the middle ear. This puts pressure on the eardrum and leads to a painful infection.

Identifying an Ear Infection

An increase in irritability is often the first sign of an ear infection. Your child may cry inconsolably and pull on the affected ear. Symptoms include a painful earache that worsens when lying down, fluid discharge, difficulty hearing, trouble sleeping, headache, fever, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of appetite. If your child displays these symptoms, a warm washcloth pressed against the ear will often bring soothing relief. Over the counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen may be given to manage pain, but avoid aspirin.

An ear infection is usually diagnosed after an examination of the ears using an otoscope. If they are dull, red, and contain fluid or pus, the ear is probably infected.

Treating an Ear Infection

The most common treatment for pediatric otitis media is antibiotics, which kill off the bacteria responsible for the child’s symptoms. Chronic infections require a more serious long-term solution. Many ENT specialists recommend ear tubes for children who experience frequent ear infections. Inserted into the eardrum surgically, these tubes promote drainage of fluids and prevent infections from occurring. Most are removed in a year or two, and may fall out naturally.

“Research has confirmed that the tubes can prevent infections and maintain a healthy middle ear environment,” says Dr. Gordon Hughes, an ENT specialist at the National Institutes of Health.

Home prevention can keep your child healthy, and avert trips to the doctor’s office. Simple actions such as teaching your child proper hand washing techniques and keeping current on vaccinations will help reduce the risk of ear infection. In addition, keep your child away from tobacco smoke; breastfeed when possible; and stick to smaller daycare centers, where fewer children mean fewer germs.

What Causes Post-Nasal Drip?

Did you know that you produce nearly two quarts of mucus every day? If you’re like most healthy people, you swallow mucus every few seconds without ever noticing. Unfortunately, that can all change once you get sick.

What is a Post-Nasal Drip?

Unlike regular nasal drip (where mucus falls out of your nose), post-nasal drip mucus falls down the back of the throat. This causes a tickling and/or irritating sensation in the back of your throat, which people often try to cough up. 

What Causes Post-Nasal Drip

Because it’s such a common symptom, there are over a dozen different causes for post-nasal drip. Some of the most common causes are:

• Sinusitis (a sinus infection)
• The common cold
• The flu
• A number of different viruses
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease 

Other uncommon causes of post-nasal drip include blockages in the nasal passage, reactions to certain medications, pregnancy, weather conditions, and even spicy foods.

Natural Treatments

When caused by common and minor conditions like allergies, the cold, the flu, or sinus issues, the nasal drip can be treated without medication. These simple treatments include:

• Gargling a saltwater mixture
• Nasal sprays
• Sleeping with your head elevated
• Drinking warm liquids, like soup or tea 

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.

Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Snoring might be regarded as a humorous stereotype for a deep sleeper, but the truth is that it might have more serious health implications. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a serious medical condition that affects millions of Americans, can cause a host of other ailments if left untreated.

What is obstructive sleep apnea? 

OSA occurs when the muscles surrounding the throat relax downward and temporarily block the airway during deep sleep. Snoring is the mildest symptom, but OSA can also cause a person to completely stop breathing for prolonged periods. Over time, this can cause major health problems.

Is it dangerous? 

Yes, OSA can be very dangerous, even life-threatening. Repetitious drops in blood oxygen levels can lead to the development of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, sleep disorders, and even small-vessel brain damage. Chronic sleep disruption can cause elevated blood sugars, fatigue, and depression. Atrial fibrillation, a cardiac rhythm disorder in which the top chambers of the heart beat erratically, is highly associated with severe OSA. If you have OSA, you’re also at a higher risk for:

• Heart failure
• Diabetes
• Heart attack 
• Stroke 
• Glaucoma 
• Surgical complications 

Symptoms of OSA 

OSA can be difficult to diagnose. Though a person may be aware of the side effects, he/she may not be aware of snoring or pauses in breathing. It’s usually a person’s spouse or partner that reports those signs. Symptoms of OSA include:

• Frequent waking 
• Excessive daytime sleepiness 
• Mental fogginess or depression 
• Confusion or a headache upon waking 
• Hypertension 

Treatment 

It’s important for anyone exhibiting signs of OSA to consult their doctor before serious medical consequences develop. If indicated, lifestyle changes may be advised, such as weight loss, smoking cessation, or more exercise. In some cases, a positive-pressure breathing apparatus called a CPAP is ordered, which is worn at night to keep the airway open. If all else fails, a surgical solution may be discussed.

The team at Florida ENT are dedicated to helping you resolve your OSA.

The Dangers of Secondhand Smoke

Everyone knows that smoking cigarettes is bad for your health. However, secondhand smoke is also a health risk as it contains over 7,000 chemicals, 70 of which are carcinogenic. Not only are adults affected, but also children, infants, and even animals. Some of the most common diseases caused by secondhand smoke are:

Cancer

Lung cancer is not the only health problem that secondhand smoke can cause. Smoke can also raise your risk of:

• Brain cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• Breast cancer
• Stomach cancer

Lung Infections

Secondhand smoke can irritate your lungs and increase your chances of getting bronchitis or pneumonia. Young children and the elderly are especially susceptible to lung infections from being around someone who smokes regularly.

Worsened Asthma

Approximately 21% of adults in the United States have asthma and tobacco smoke is one of the most common triggers for asthma attacks. Even mild symptoms can be exacerbated by being around a person smoking cigarettes.

Not only does smoking cigarettes affect people, but also inanimate objects in the area. The smell can permeate many materials, including clothing, hair, carpet, and furniture. If enough smoke accumulates, it can also stain and discolor things.

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.

Florida ENT — A Year in Review(s)

To say that 2018 was a whirlwind year for us would be an understatement! From sinus infections to plastic surgeries, we had the pleasure of working with hundreds of patients throughout Florida.

From the procedure or treatment to bedside manner, our goal is always to provide the best service possible. And judging from the many reviews we’ve read this past year, it looks like we’ve succeeded! Take a look at some of our top reviews from 2018:

“Receptionists were really friendly. I actually didn't see Dr. Han but he did have another doctor in for him and he was quick, detailed, and friendly.” - Jere T.

“Very happy with Dr. Han and the treatment I received. Staff was also excellent.” - Carolyn C.

“...outside of fixing my sinus problem, I just really like Dr. Han as a person. He was very patient with me, answered all my questions, and I just got the sense that he actually cared about me, not just as a patient, but as a person. I highly recommend him to anyone.” - Noah C.

“Dr. Han is a top notch ENT. I drove 29 miles to see him. I trust his judgment and his staff is awesome.” - Sherraine G.

“This is the best doctor I have ever encountered! He was so genuine and down to earth. He didn’t seem rushed, even though I was a new patient. I honestly wish more doctors were like him! Dr. Wade should consider specializing in everything so I could see him for every little thing lol! I would definitely recommend him.” - Anna O.

“Excelente!” - Edwin R.

Have you recently visited Florida ENT or Dr. Han? If so, leave us a review and you may be featured in our next review wrap up!