Throat Disorders
Disorders of the throat may be caused by inflammation, infection, or growths such as polyps, ulcers or even cancerous tumors.
Throat problems are very common, especially in young children. A sore throat is usually minor and may go away on its own. However, some sore throats can be caused by a streptococcus (usually called just strep) bacteria and may require an antibiotic. If you see white patches on the back of your throat, you should suspect strep throat and see your doctor.
If you have a lump or sore that doesnt go away, trouble swallowing or hoarseness and especially if you smoke and drink alcohol, you may be at risk for throat or mouth cancers. If found early these kinds of cancers are often curable. See your doctor to get the right diagnosis.
Recently Answered
- Q How are vocal folds examined by a doctor diagnosing hoarseness?
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When searching for the cause of hoarseness, the doctor will examine the vocal folds. They can be viewed using a small mirror, by laryngoscopy, or with a CT scan. Laryngoscopy involves inserting a thin viewing tube down the throat. An x-ray can also be... Full Answer
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- Q How long does hoarseness last?
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Hoarseness can last anywhere from just a few hours to several months or more. The duration depends upon what has caused it and whether it is being treated or not. For mild cases, resting your voice and staying away from vocal fold irritants will help... Full Answer
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- Q Should I be worried about contracting hoarseness?
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In general, you should not be worried about vocal hoarseness. However, if you are a singer or someone who uses their voice a lot in general, then it might be beneficial to seek professional help as a preventive measure. A professional vocal instructor... Full Answer
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- Q Are there other names for hoarseness?
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Yes, there are other names for hoarseness. Hoarseness may be called voice strain or dysphonia. Being afflicted with hoarseness may also be referred to as a loss of voice. Full Answer
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- Q What is the treatment for Zenker's diverticulum?
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Dr. Arlen Meyers, OtolaryngologyZenker's Diverticulum is an out pouching of the feeding tube (esophagus) usually where it meets the throat. Symptoms are typically a feeling of a lump in the throat or it feels like food gets stuck. It is associated with tightness of the upper sphincter... Full Answer
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- Q What is adenoiditis?
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Adenoiditis is an inflammation of the adenoids, which are small masses of tissue at the back of the nose and throat. They are part of the same tissue that forms the tonsils.Adenoiditis often occurs with a sore throat or tonsillitis. Unless there is a... Full Answer
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- Q How can I get rid of tonsil stones?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyTonsil stones are pretty common and can be removed with a tongue depressor or washed away with a Waterpik. Full Answer
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- Q Who is most at risk for hypogeusia?
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Those who suffer from frequent upper respiratory infections or allergies are most at risk for hypogeusia. Smokers are more likely than non-smokers to develop hypogeusia as well. Full Answer
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- Q How do other illnesses affect hypogeusia?
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In most cases, other illnesses cause hypogeusia. Conditions like Bell's palsy may cause hypogeusia on a certain area of the tongue. A worsening of allergies or an upper respiratory infection can contribute to hypogeusia, too. Full Answer
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- Q Does hypogeusia affect children differently than adults?
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Hypogeusia typically diminishes children's ability to taste flavors in the same way that it does in adults. Children may be more reluctant than adults to eat healthy foods when their taste is impaired, however. Children with hypogeusia can be encouraged... Full Answer
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