Throat Overview
Throat The throat is a muscular tube that extends from the back of the nose to the neck. It contains the pharynx, larynx, tonsils and adenoids, and serves as a passageway for air, food and liquid. Diseases affecting the thyroid, parathyroid and salivary glands can impact many of your body’s regular processes. Fortunately, many of…
Hoarseness
Hoarseness is an inflammation of the larynx that results in a change in the voice, making it sound breathy, raspy, scratchy or strained. There may be changes in volume and pitch, as well. Hoarseness falls under the medical category of dysphonia, which refers to voice impairment or any sort of difficulty speaking. What Causes Hoarseness?…
Neck & Throat Cancer
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. This…
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. What Causes Reflux? Normally, following a meal, a valve on your esophagus – the sphincter – closes, preventing…
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…
Laryngitis
Laryngitis is swelling and irritation of the larynx (voice box). It causes hoarseness and, in some cases, voice loss. It can be acute (short-lived) or chronic (long-lasting), but is usually the result of a temporary viral infection or vocal strain and clears up quickly. Persistent laryngitis that lasts longer than two weeks could be a…
Salivary Glands
The salivary glands, located in the mouth and throat, are responsible for producing saliva to keep your food moist, making it easier to chew and swallow. Saliva also aids in digestion, keeps your teeth from decaying and contains antibodies that keep your mouth clean and germ-free. Disorders of the salivary glands can interfere with these…
Thyroid Nodules
Thyroid nodules are lumps in the thyroid gland that may be solid or filled with fluid. They are usually noncancerous and rarely cause problems. In some cases, they may enlarge to the point of causing breathing and swallowing difficulties or stimulating overproduction of thyroid hormone. Thyroid Nodule Indications Many times, you may be completely unaware…
Thyroid Cancer
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones used to regulate your body’s metabolism. Though relatively rare, thyroid cancer occurs when abnormal cells multiply in the thyroid gland. Fortunately, patients with thyroid cancer frequently do well because it is usually detected early and responds well to treatment. It is important to…
Goiter
A goiter is caused by the swelling of the thyroid. While normally harmless, a goiter can lead to your thyroid producing an incorrect amount of hormones. Iodine deficiency is the most common cause of goiters worldwide. In the US, the most common cause of a goiteris an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This condition causes your own immune system to slowly…
