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What Causes a Sore Throat? Most sore throats are the result of viral infections due to the common cold or flu. Bacterial infections including strep throat, tonsillitis, whooping cough and diphtheria may also cause a sore throat. Additional causes include allergies, acid reflux, environmental irritants, dry air and strained vocal cords. Sore Throat Treatment If…

A cough lasting eight weeks or longer is considered chronic. A chronic cough can disrupt your sleep and affect your work. It may include other symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, runny nose, congestion and heartburn. If you have a cough that lasts more than a month, make an appointment with your ear nose…

Neck and throat cancers usually form in the squamous cells lining the inside of the mouth, nose and throat. They are highly curable if detected early and often respond well to surgery or radiation treatment. Cancers in this region are classified according to where they are located in the body. They include: Oral cavity cancer…

What Are the Thyroid Glands? The thyroid is an endocrine gland located on either side of the trachea just above the collarbone. It produces a hormone that helps regulate metabolism. Thyroid Conditions Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism is the result of excess thyroid hormone production. This can cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat, anxiety, irritability, nervousness, fatigue, heat…

Laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx and voice box. It causes hoarseness and, in some cases, voice loss. It can be acute or chronic but is usually the result of a temporary viral infection or vocal strain. Laryngitis that lasts longer than two weeks could signify a serious condition—you should seek prompt care from a…

The tonsils — tissues that serve to trap germs and bacteria and prevent infection — are located in the back of the throat. Their constant exposure to germs makes them susceptible to infection themselves. Following puberty, their role as immune system defenders declines significantly; this is why tonsil infections are far more common in children…

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. What Causes Reflux? Normally, following a meal, a valve on your esophagus – the sphincter – closes, preventing…

If you suffer from chronic sinusitis and have run out of options, you may be a candidate for balloon sinuplasty. This minimally invasive surgery is a safe and effective method of enlarging your sinus passages for easier breathing and a drastic reduction in sinusitis symptoms. What Is Sinusitis? Recurrent acute sinusitis and chronic sinusitis affects…

Sinusitis is inflammation and swelling of the tissues that line the sinuses. This interferes with normal mucus drainage, leading to breathing difficulties, pain and pressure. When the condition persists for 12 weeks or longer, it is considered chronic. What Causes Sinusitis? Sinusitis is the number one reported chronic condition in the United States, affecting an…

Sinus infections bring pain and misery to millions of Americans. When the condition is chronic or recurs frequently, and medications do little to provide relief, then sinus surgery is often recommended. There are multiple procedures available, each with the same goal in mind: to remove any obstructions and enlarge the sinus openings, improving both airflow…