The season of sunshine and fun is here. Summer means pool parties, evenings on the lake and beachfront getaways. When annoying ear pain gets in the way of all the festivities, many are quick to assume it’s a case of swimmer’s ear. Often, that is an accurate diagnosis, but if ear discomfort coincides with summertime allergies or a cold, an ear infection could be a culprit.
Winter is a season for sinusitis and sinus infections, and that often means lost productivity, as workers either call in sick or try to power through. It's difficult to be at your best when you're suffering from the symptoms of a sinus infection, and your productivity will almost always take a hit as a result. But is it necessary to call out of work, for the sake of your own health as well as that of others?
When you think of seeing an ENT doctor, what ailments do you think they treat? With summertime fast approaching, you may not be aware your ENT can help with certain issues. Here are some common (and not so common) summertime issues you may need an ENT for this season.
What is a Balloon Sinuplasty?
You may have heard or read about the term "balloon sinuplasty" before, particularly if you have had ongoing trouble with your sinuses. A balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive procedure where a balloon catheter dilates the sinus so it can function better. This technique is often done in-office and involves no cutting of bone or nasal tissue. Recovery usually takes a few days.
Is the Richmond weather making your voice scratchy and hoarse? The cold temperatures and harsh winds of winter can be hard on your voice. Here are some easy ways to take care of your voice during the cold winter months.
What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a condition wherein acidic stomach juices flow back up into the esophagus. GERD can have many causes and happen at any age, although it tends to be more common in adults.
Nosebleeds are a common occurrence for children of all ages and have various causes that range from benign to serious. In toddlers, nosebleeds are usually related to minor accidents, nose picking, inflammation, or dry winter air. Most nosebleeds stop a few minutes after pressure is placed on the nasal passages.
As a parent, you’re almost certain to deal with at least one nosebleed during your child’s life but if your toddler experiences frequent nosebleeds, you might need to seek medical assistance.
Within the United States, one of every seven people will develop a nosebleed at some point in their lives. Nosebleeds are commonly caused by ruptures of the small blood vessels inside of your nose, and can sometimes be fairly frequent. We see them in patients of every age, but are most common in children and older adults.
Richmond’s humidity and geography make it a perfect destination for many different allergens to be present. Whether it’s the grasses in the summer, ragweed in the fall, the ever-popular pollen in the Spring, or all of the above, many Richmonders suffer from seasonal allergies. Whether you have lived in Richmond all of your life, or if you just recently moved to the area, you will need to know effective ways to fight your seasonal allergies.
Inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane is called rhinitis. The symptoms include congestion, sneezing and runny and/or itchy nose, caused by irritation in the nose. There are two types: allergic rhinitis and non-allergic rhinitis. Allergy testing with an ear, nose and throat specialist will clarify whether symptoms are an allergic response or not.
