Eagle syndrome, also called Eagle’s syndrome, styloid syndrome, stylohyoid syndrome, styloid-carotid artery syndrome, and styloid-stylohyoid syndrome, refers to a health condition that causes sharp pain in the face, neck, and back of the throat. The rare condition, named after Dr. Watt Eagle, occurs due to calcified (ossified) stylohyoid ligaments (CSL) and elongated styloid processes (ESP) that exert pressure in the neck and head thereby affecting the cranial nerves.

What causes Eagle Syndrome

Although the causes of ESP and CSL are not well understood, chronic renal failure and abnormal calcium-phosphorous metabolism might be associated with their occurrences.

Eagle syndrome can be categorized into two types depending on whether it is occurring due to an ESP or CSL:

• Classic Eagle syndrome: It commonly occurs after tonsillectomy due to cranial nerve compression, resulting in inflammation and ossification of the stylohyoid ligament, with symptoms usually appearing on one side of the head and neck (unilateral). But can affect both sides (bilateral) on rare occasions.
• Vascular Eagle syndrome: Elongation of styloid processes, caused by their angulation in the middle or at the end, leads to an impingement of carotid artery wherein turning the head might compress it or tear the blood vessel.

[1] Proc styloideus – Eagle syndrome

Signs and Symptoms

Classic Eagle Syndrome

• Sharp pain in the face and neck, radiating to ears, jaw, base of the tongue, throat, or chest
• Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia)
• Change in voice
• A lumpy feeling in the throat
• Earache (otalgia) or ringing noise in the ear (tinnitus)
• Hypersalivation
• Vertigo or dizziness

Vascular Eagle Syndrome

• Loss of consciousness due to a fall in blood pressure (syncope)
• Sympathetic plexus irritation, where irritation of certain network of veins and nerves close to the neck and head leads to feeling of discomfort in the eyes and abdominal pain

Complications

• Carotid dissection
• Restriction in blood flow to tissues
• Transient ischemic attack or “mini stroke,” which may increase the risks of a life-threatening stroke in the future

Diagnosis and Tests

On careful physical examination, palpation of the tip of styloid processes triggers pain and makes the symptoms worse, which is not possible if the styloid processes are of normal length (approximately 2.5 cm). Application of a local anesthetic to the tonsillar sinus can help with the diagnosis as lessening of the pain following the injection may suggest eagle syndrome.

Imaging Tests

• Cervical spine radiology (X-rays)
• CT scanning with three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of the neck and skull base

Differential Diagnosis

• Glossopharyngeal neuralgia
• Laryngopharyngeal dysesthesia
• Esophageal diverticula
• Sluder syndrome
• Migraine-type headaches
• Hyoid bursitis
• Trigeminal neuralgia
• Toothache or temporomandibular disorders
• Glossodynia
• Cervical arthritis
• Otitis
• Impacted/unerupted molar teeth
• Temporal arteritis
• Faulty dental prostheses
• Cervical mass
• Carotid artery dissection
• Possible tumors
• Salivary gland disease
• Sphenopalatine neuralgia
• Fibromyalgia syndrome

Treatment and Management

Initial treatment involves conservative methods like use of oral medications and local anesthetics.

Ossifikationen im Ligamentum stylohyoideom beidseits – Eagle Syndrom CT

Medical Therapy

The following medications may be used for treating or lessening the symptoms of Eagle Syndrome:

• Antidepressants (amitriptyline, tianeptine) and anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin) affect neurotransmitters and lessen nerve stimulation, thereby providing relief from pain.
• Analgesics (acetaminophen, tramadol) are used for reducing pain.
• Local infiltrative administration of steroids or anesthetics like lidocaine induces numbness in the area.

Surgery

When patients do not respond to medications, surgical procedures such as styloidectomy are carried out to remove the elongated part of the styloid.

Intraoral (transpharyngeal) Approach: The elongated styloid process is detected through external examination so it can be cut out through a small incision in the muscles. It is a short, minimally invasive surgery that does not lead to any permanent scarring. But, this approach is associated with a risk of blood vessel injuries and deep neck space infections as it does not give a clear representation of the internal organs during surgery.

Patients need to take only soft foods 4 to 6 hours after the operation, while they are usually discharged within 8 to 24 hours.

Extraoral Approach: It involves making an incision around the upper third of the edge of the sternocleidomastoid neck muscle, and hyoid bone. The cervical fascia and platysma muscle are cut to reach the neurovascular bundle in the neck and digastric jaw muscles, after which the styloid process is examined. Styloidectomy is done once the muscle insertions and layers of broad tendons (aponeurosis) are set apart from the styloid.

External surgical excision has a success rate of 93.4%, where most patients are discharged within 36 hours of the surgery. However, the recovery time for the extraoral technique is longer than the intraoral approach.

[3] Verknoechertes Lig stylohyoideum – CT 3D – Eagle syndrome

Follow-up Treatment

Patients are recommended to have analgesics and antibiotics for a week after surgery. Follow-up care for at least a year is crucial for recovering from styloidectomy. During this period the patient is physically examined and tested every 3 months.

Other Methods of Management

• Homeopathic medications
• Therapeutic exercises and physical therapy to relax muscles and reduce pain
• Chiropractic treatment by a licensed practitioner

Prognosis

The medical and surgical treatment methods together have a success rate of approximately 80%. However, effectiveness of a certain treatment depends on the presence of any other associated condition or causative factor.

Incidence and Prevalence

An ESP may occur in 4% of the population, out of which only 4-10.3% of the people exhibit pain and other symptoms. Therefore, the actual incidence of Eagle Syndrome is 0.16%, with the ratio between affected females and males being 3:1. People between 30 and 50 years of age are more likely to have this condition.

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Conductive hearing loss Definition

CHL is one of the three types of hearing loss, the other two being Sensorineural hearing loss and Mixed hearing loss. It is a form of deafness that occurs as a result of some problem in the ability of the ear to conduct audio waves.

The condition generally involves a decrease in audio level or the ability to hear faint noises. The disorder is also referred to by other names like Conductive Deafness (CD) and Transmission Deafness.

Conductive hearing loss ICD9 Code

The ICD9 Code of this disease is 389.0.

Conductive hearing loss Prevalence

This is a rare condition as compared to the other two types of loss of hearing. Sensorineural hearing loss, in which the problem lies with the auditory nerve or the cochlea, account for much as 90% of all cases of deafness.

Conductive hearing loss Symptoms

Although not generally distorted, audio sensations turn quieter for patients of this type of deafness. Based on the underlying cause, the condition can be either permanent or temporary. Sounds get muffled on account of the defect in the inner, middle or outer ear. Sounds cannot travel to the auditory nerve through the ear.

This form of deafness can arise alone or in conjunction with Sensorineural hearing loss.

Conductive hearing loss Causes

The disease generally arises when energy in sound waves is not efficiently conducted to the eardrum and the ossicles (tiny bones) of the middle ear through the outer ear canal. The kinetic energy of the audio waves are not delivered to the middle ear organs, such as the cochlea. Hence, they cannot be converted into electrical energy in the form of neurological impulses that are sent along the auditory nerve and all the way to the brain.

A mechanical problem in the middle or outer ear is the chief reason for this condition. It is not known why this problem occurs. However, some possible causes have been reported by physicians and medical researchers. These include:

• Allergies (serous otitis media)
• Benign tumors
• Ear infection (otitis media)
• Fluid in the middle ear from colds
• Impacted earwax (cerumen)
• Infection in the ear canal (external otitis)
• Poor eustachian tube function
• Perforated eardrum
• Swimmer’s Ear (otitis ecxterna)
• Presence of a foreign body
• Malformation or absence of the outer ear, ear canal, or middle ear

Conductive hearing loss Risk Factors

No particular risk factors have been identified for this condition. However, researchers and doctors have mentioned some factors that may damage the ear in some way. These include:

Heredity

The genetic makeup of an individual may make him or her more prone to ear damage.

Ageing

Increase in age can lead to a natural deterioration in the number of cells and reduce the capability to hear sounds. Due to this reason, older people are at greater risk of suffering from loss of hearing.

Occupational noises

Being engaged in professions that require individuals to be exposed to loud noises over many years can increase susceptibility to CHL. These include jobs such as sandblasting, repairing of automobiles, producing music or manufacturing fireworks.

Certain ailments

Conditions that cause high fever, such as Meningitis, may result in damage to the tube-shaped structure in the inner ear known as Cochlea and lead to deafness.

Use of some medicines

Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs and antibiotics like Gentamicin may cause damage to the inner ear. In case of intake of loop diuretics, pain-relievers, high doses of Aspirin or anti-malarial drugs, hearing problems may occur.

Conductive hearing loss Diagnosis

The diagnosis of this condition may begin with a physical examination of patients and analysis of their medical history.

The diagnostic exams for this disorder include:

• MRI scan or CT scan of the head (in case a fracture or tumor is suspected)
• Tympanometry
• Audiometry (a hearing test that is used to determine the type and amount of deafness)

Conductive hearing loss Differential Diagnosis

The differential diagnosis of this condition can be a challenge as the signs and symptoms of CHL can be quite similar in nature to those of the two other types of hearing loss. Doctors, therefore, should take steps and perform all necessary steps to ascertain that patients are not suffering from Sensorineural hearing loss or Mixed hearing loss.

Conductive hearing loss Treatment

This kind of deafness can often be corrected surgically or medically. CHL can present both some of the simplest and some the most complicated cases of loss of hearing to cure for doctors.

The types of CHL arising due to factors like failure of the ear canal to open at birth or congenital absence of ear canal may possibly be cured by surgical means. If operative techniques fail to improve hearing abilities, use of a conventional hearing aid, surgical implantation of an osseointegrated device or amplification with a bone conduction hearing aid can be beneficial.

Cases of CHL occurring due to factors like tumors, trauma or presence of some foreign body can be cured with antifungal drugs or antibiotic medicines. Chronic non-infectious middle ear fluid is cured with pressure equalizing tubes or surgery.

Cases, which arise as a result of head trauma, are frequently found to improve after surgical repair of middle ear structures that might have suffered damage.

Otosclerosis, a genetic form of CHL, is characterized by a bony fixation of the stapes due to which sound sensations cannot reach the middle ear. The condition is generally manifested by loss of hearing in the early stages of adulthood. Surgery can successfully manage the problems associated with this type of CHL by replacing the immobile stapes with mobile stapes.

Long-term hearing loss of this type may be managed with the aid of supportive devices like hearing aids. Sufferers of acute hearing loss may also benefit from use of sign language and other communicative techniques.

In people with severe loss of hearing, use of cochlear implants may be assistive. Listening and communication enhancement, when used along with medical treatment measures for CHL, can maximize the chances of a better prognosis and improve the ability of sufferers to listen to sounds that are available to the brain.

Conductive hearing loss Home Treatment

The home remedial measures for this disorder mainly include flushing accumulated wax out of the ear. Buildup of wax in the ear can be a cause for this disorder. Gently flushing the ear with warm water and ear syringes can be helpful in removing obstructions. If the wax is stuck in the ear and hard in form, wax softeners like Cerumenex may be required.

Patients should go gentle while removing wax or any other foreign object that may possibly be present inside the ear. Sharp instruments should not be used for removal, as they can injure the ears and aggravate the problem.

Conductive hearing loss Prognosis

The outcome of cases of this condition is positive in nature. In many cases, the loss of hearing can be repaired or at least improved with the help of operative techniques. Acute and chronic cases may require some time to be improved. In some cases, use of supportive devices like hearing aids or implants may be used all through life to counter the symptoms of CHL and help patients manage the condition. Those who use hearing aids and other assistive equipments report of vast improvements in their life.

Successful treatment helps dramatically improve the quality of life of sufferers and make them have more self-confidence. They can have an improved approach towards life and have closer relationships with people who love and care for them.

Conductive hearing loss Complications

Loss of hearing can have a negative impact on the quality of life of CHL sufferers. Progressive deafness is a cause for concern and can make a patient dependent on others and suffer from a loss of self-esteem and confidence. The other problems are generally psychological in nature. The commonly reported ones among them include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• A false assumption of others being angry with him or her

Such problems are mainly reported in patients who are older in age.

Unfortunately, those suffering from CHL and other forms of deafness continue to live with the problem before finally opting for medical treatment. This may cause lasting difficulties for patients as well as their family members. Sufferers may also socially withdraw themselves and reduce interaction with others.

Conductive hearing loss Prevention

The preventive measures associated with CHL involve those recommended for any type of hearing loss. These include:

Having hearing ability tested

Regular hearing tests may be useful in case of aged individuals and those who are regularly exposed to high sounds in their work environment. Going for ear tests on a regular basis can help determine loss of hearing on an early basis. Understanding that some amount of hearing ability has been lost can indicate that steps should be taken on an immediate basis to prevent further deafness.

Protecting ears in workplace

Earmuffs, which are specifically designed as earphones, can be worn to protect the ears by reducing the intensity of noises that the ears can perceive. Earplugs made of foam, rubber, plastic or any similar material can also provide ears with effective protection from loud noises.

Avoiding recreational activities

Avoiding activities like listening to music or playing computer games for long periods, which can cause damage to hearing, can also reduce the risk of CHL. Such activities, even if not altogether avoided, should be reduced to ensure better health of the ears. Turning down the volume of music player or computer/laptop speaker while listening to music or playing games can also help a person prevent damage to his or her hearing abilities.

If hearing loss of patients tends to worsen in intensity and interfere with their lifestyle, professional medical care providers should be contacted at the earliest. As is true in case of most other disorders, timely medical intervention and treatment can help check this disease and prevent any possible complications arising due to this condition.

References:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conductive_hearing_loss

http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/glossary=conductivehearingloss

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-conductive-deafness.htm

http://www.asha.org/public/hearing/conductive-hearing-loss/

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Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a hearing disorder that occurs due to exposure to high-intensity sounds, generally over a prolonged time period. It is a preventable condition that is known to affect people of all demographics and age groups.

What Happens in Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?

Every day we listen to sounds in our environment, like the sounds that emanate from the radio or the television, household appliances as well as the traffic. These sounds reach our ears at safe levels and do not detrimentally affect our hearing. On the other hand, when our ears get exposed to harmful noises, i.e., sounds that are either too loud or last for a long time or both, the sensitive structures which are present within the inner ear can get damaged, thereby giving rise to noise-induced hearing loss. These sensitive structures, known as hair cells, are tiny sensory cells that help in converting sound energy to electrical signals that are then transmitted to the brain. However, once these hair cells are damaged, they cannot grow back which eventually leads to permanent deafness.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Epidemiology

People of all ages and all ethnic backgrounds have been known to be affected by this disorder. Around 15% of Americans between 20 and 69 years of age have been affected by NIHL; the figures closing around 26 million.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Effects

A long-time exposure to harmful sounds can damage the auditory nerve and the hair cells. Impulse sounds can cause immediate hearing loss which may become permanent. It can be accompanied by signs of tinnitus – a buzzing, ringing or roaring sensation felt in the ears. Although it may gradually subside over time, patients may experience spells of tinnitus occasionally or constantly throughout their lifetime. One or both of the ears might get affected by it.

Continuous exposure to high-pitched, loud noises can damage the structures of the hair cells, thereby leading to Tinnitus and hearing loss, although it occurs in a slower pace than that of impulse noises.

Sometimes, an exposure of impulse and/or continuous noise can lead to a temporary hearing loss. It is referred to a temporary threshold shift if the affected individual regains hearing after a period of time that can last for anywhere within 16-48 hours.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Types

NIHL can be divided into 2 types, based on the intensity of the loud noise as well as the length of time of exposure. These two basic types are stated and discussed below:

NIHL resulting from acoustic trauma

NIHL caused by an acoustic trauma occurs when permanent cochlear damage takes place from a single exposure to an excessively loud sound pressure. This type of NIHL generally results from an exposure to sounds having a very high intensity, such as gunfire, explosions, firecrackers and loud hitting of a large drum.

Gradually developing NIHL

This type of NIHL occurs when permanent cochlear damage is caused by repeated exposure to various loud sounds occurring over a long period of time. This form is not caused by a single encounter with a high intensity sound pressure, a feature that is the hallmark of NIHL caused by acoustic trauma. Gradually developing noise-induced hearing loss can occur due to multiple exposures to various sounds with excessive volume, such as stereo systems in homes and vehicles, nightclubs, concerts, personal media players and excessive noises in the workplace. According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), an exposure to noises of 85 dB (A) or more for more than 8 hours per day might lead to permanent hearing loss. This scale is known as exposure action value. As the decibel scale is based on logarithms, an increase in the sound pressure by 3 decibels doubles the intensity of sound, which can quicken the speed of hearing loss.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Causes

NIHL can result from a single exposure to some form of intense “impulse” sound or by a continuous exposure to high-pitched noises that last over a long period of time, like a noise generating from a woodworking shop. The higher the decibels of the sound, the greater are the chances of developing hearing loss. The duration of the sound as well as closeness to the source of sound are also deciding factors that determine the effects of sound on an individual.

There are also a number of occupations in which the working people are greatly susceptible to hearing loss. These include the following:

• Mining
• Utilities
• Military
• Musicians
• Agriculture
• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Transportation
• Orchestra conductors

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of NIHL increase gradually when an individual is exposed to high-pitched noises over a prolonged period of time. Over time, the various sounds an individual hears can slowly get distorted and/or muffled. The affected individual can also experience difficulty in understanding speech. Someone with this condition might not be aware of this hearing loss, even though it can be observed by conducting a hearing test.

One of the reasons why people often are unable to notice the dangers of loud noises is that only very few symptoms are caused by prolonged exposure. Hearing loss hardly even causes any pain. The symptoms that are commonly felt include vague sensations of fullness or pressure in the ears, verbal speech sounding muffled or seeming to be coming from a long distance, and tinnitus or a ringing sensation in the ears. These signs may take minutes, hours or even days to go away after the initial exposure to the noise ends.

People often assume that their ears have returned to their normal state once the symptoms go away. However, this is hardly true. Even if no presence of symptoms can be felt, some of the inner ear cells may have suffered damage from the noise. If enough number of healthy cells is present in the inner ear, the hearing may return to normal. Nevertheless, a long-lasting hearing loss will develop if the exposure to the loud noise is repeated, thereby leading to cellular destruction.

The first signs of NIHL involve an inability to hear high-pitched noises, like singing of the birds, or being unable to understand speech while standing in a large crowd or where there is much background noise. With prolonged damage, hearing further declines and it becomes more and more difficult to detect lower pitched sounds.

The various signs and symptoms of NIHL are listed below:

• Hypersensitivity
• Loss of sensitivity
• Tinnitus or head noise
• Temporary threshold shift
• High frequency hearing loss
• Ear discomfort after exposure
• Difficulty hearing in background noise

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Diagnosis

Various audiometric tests are conducted to see if an individual is having NIHL. These include:

• Noise surveys
• Personal dosimetry
• Screening audiometry
• Pure-tone audiometry
• Speech reception threshold (SRT) test
• Cortical evoked response audiometry (CERA)

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Differential Diagnosis

A number of conditions exhibit signs and symptoms similar to that of NIHL. Hence, while determining the diagnosis of NIHL, it should be differentiated from such similar conditions in order to come up with the best treatment plan. The differential diagnoses of NIHL include conditions such as:

• Ototoxicity of the inner ear
• Presbycusis of the inner ear
• Otosclerosis of the middle ear
• Sudden hearing loss of the inner ear
• Autoimmune disease of the inner ear
• Genetic sensorineural hearing loss of the inner ear

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Treatment

There are a number of management options for individuals having NIHL that can improve hearing abilities and facilitate communication. These include usage of hearing aids such as earplugs and/or earmuffs, FM systems and counseling. Some research suggests that it is possible to manage the symptoms of hearing loss by administering high doses of magnesium for a short period of time. This treatment should be started as quickly as possible after the exposure to loud noise. Sticking to a magnesium-rich diet prior to any exposure to loud sound is also helpful in preventing NIHL. However, this mode of treatment should be handled carefully as consuming high quantities of magnesium can be detrimental to one’s health.

A number of health conditions can exacerbate the symptoms of NIHL. Due to this reason, effective management of these disorders is required to positively influence the progression of NIHL treatment. These include:

• Smoking
• Hyperlipidemia
• Diabetes mellitus
• Cardiovascular disease
• Exposure to various ototoxic drugs

There are no medical options at present for patients of NIHL who had been exposed to loud noise for more than a week ago. However, research is being conducted to discover genetic and drug therapies that can help to eradicate the symptoms of NIHL.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Prognosis

The prognosis for NIHL patients is excellent with proper sound amplification and counseling. Recent advancements in the field of digital hearing aid technology, like open-fit hearing aids, directional microphones, as well as more advanced algorithms have enhanced the positive outcome of NIHL treatment. The initial treatment should be followed by annual audiological evaluations to see if there are any changes in the patient’s hearing as well as to modify the hearing-aid prescriptions.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Prevention

Although there are no treatment methods that can permanently reverse the damage of the hair cells, following certain preventative measures can negate further chances of damage and protect the ears. These include the following:

• Reducing exposure to loud noises
• Developing the habit of using earplugs or earmuffs prior to being exposed to loud noises for long periods of time
• Using sound-absorbing materials that reduce noise at the workplace and at home
• Avoiding the use of several noisy machines simultaneously
• Avoiding the tendency to drown out various unwanted noises by increasing other sounds, such as the sounds of headsets, television or car radios
• Going to the doctor annually for the evaluation of hearing abilities of sufferers

References:

http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/prevention-wellness/staying-healthy/occupational-health/hearing-noise-induced-hearing-loss.html

http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/hearing/pages/noise.aspx

http://hearinghealthfoundation.org/what-is-nihl

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noise-induced_hearing_loss

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What is Epistaxis?

As aforesaid, it is a condition marked by bleeding from the nose. Epistaxis is the medical term for nosebleed and it is more commonly known by the latter name. It occurs when the membranes that line the inner nose are irritated or disturbed enough to result in abnormal bleeding.

Epistaxis Types

The disorder is classified into two types:

Picture 1 – Epistaxis

Anterior

This form is characterized by bleeding near the front of the nose of patients.

Posterior

It is marked by bleeding from the back or posterior region of the nose. It is usually more severe than the anterior type.

Epistaxis Incidence

Approximately 60% of the population is believed to suffer from the condition at some point in their lifetime. Around 6% would need medical treatment. Most of the sufferers of this disease are found to be in the age groups 2 to 10 years and 50 to 80 years. These are the peak ages of incidence for the condition. The disease affects both sexes equally.

Although around 60% of people are affected by this disease, less than 10% of sufferers seek medical attention to get treated.

Epistaxis Causes

The disorder may arise due to varied factors like:

Environmental causes

These include:

• Long-time inhalation of dry air
• Dry cold conditions (the symptoms increase during winter)

Medicinal factors

These involve side effects of:

• Anticoagulants such as Warfarin, platelet inhibitors and Aspirin
• Solvent inhalation, also known as Huffing
• Cocaine
• Topical antihistamines and corticosteroids

Local trauma

This includes:

• Foreign bodies
• Nose picking
• Nasal septum deviation
• Facial trauma
• Infections of the sinus or nose

Coagulopathies

These involve:

• AIDS
• Chronic alcohol abuse
• Liver disease
• Platelet disorders
• Renal failure
• Splenomegaly
• Thrombocytopenia
• Inherited coagulopathies, as in Haemophilia A & B and Von Willebrand disease

Iatrogenic factors

These comprise of:

• Nasotracheal intubation
• Nasogastric tube insertion

Vascular abnormalities

These constitute:

• Aneurysms
• Ateriovenous malformation
• Endometriosis
• Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia
• Neoplasm
• Sclerotic vessels
• Septal perforation/deviation

Hypertension is also regarded as a cause of this disease, although rarely a direct causative factor. The disorder is found to be more common in hypertensive individuals. Prolonged hypertension leads to the fragility of blood vessels and is believed to give rise to this disease, although in rare cases.

If bleeding occurs from the nose after a heavy blow to the skull, it could be a sign of a fractured skull. The suffering individual should be immediately taken to a hospital.

Epistaxis Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of the disorder vary, depending on the type of it that a person suffers from.

Anterior Epistaxis Symptoms

In this case, blood oozes out of the front of the nose constantly or starts and stops at various intervals. The bleeding may occur from one or both nostrils of sufferers. Blood may also flow into the throat.

Posterior Epistaxis Symptoms

In the posterior form, blood oozes slowly or steadily out of the back of the nose. The bleeding may start or stop at various periods. The blood may flow back into the throat at times. People suffering from nosebleeding, especially in case of the posterior form, may lose blood rapidly.

Epistaxis Diagnosis

The disease is initially diagnosed with the aid of a simple physical observation. A physician generally makes a patient sit up and lean forward. This helps in analyzing the site as well as the rate of bleeding. The healthcare provider may check the blood pressure and pulse of the individual. In case a person loses a lot of blood and requires transfusion, a physician might take a blood sample to find out whether the person is suffering from anemia. It also helps him/her understand the type of the blood and whether it has the ability to clot.

Epistaxis Treatment

Most cases of this condition are mild in nature and can be addressed simply with first aid. When a person starts to bleed through the nose, he/she should sit straight and lean forward. This would prevent the passage of blood into the throat. The individual should also pinch the nose tightly between the first finger and the thumb, just under the nasal bones. The nose should be held like this for 10 minutes. This helps stop the bleeding in most cases.

After the bleeding stops, a saline nose drop or a saline nasal spray can be used to keep the nose moist. Patients should not blow their nose for several hours after the stoppage of bleeding. If the bleeding persists for over 20 minutes or fails to respond to first aid, a health care provider should be contacted.

A healthcare provider generally treats such cases by applying a nose drop (like Afrin or Neo-Synephrine) or by pressing a cotton ball soaked in Epinephrine for 5-10 minutes over the site of bleeding.

If the region starts bleeding again, a healthcare provider may soak the cotton ball with a stronger medicine and press it over the area for around 5 minutes. This would induce numbness and reduce the supply of blood to the nasal membrane temporarily.

Blood loss from the front of the nose usually stops following inching or application of pressure on the bleeding region. If this is found to be unsuccessful in remedying the condition, a physician/healthcare provider may induce numbness in the area and pack the nose with a special balloon or a strip of gauze (coated with Vaseline) to apply pressure onto the site.

Epistaxis Management

While suffering from this problem, an individual as well as those caring for him/her should maintain a calm attitude. Display of anxious behavior may scare the affected person and jeopardize the condition. Those around a patient should make him sit upright and lean forward slightly. The patient himself or a person caring for him should squeeze the bottom section of the nose for 10-20 minutes to stop the oozing out of blood.

The patient should spit out any blood out to avoid its entry into the throat. He or she should breathe through the mouth and spit out any saliva that prevents breathing freely. An ice pack should be pressed onto the site to put an end to bleeding. A saline spray should also be put to use after some time. If bleeding continues despite such measures, it is necessary to get in touch with a local healthcare provider.

Epistaxis Recovery Time

With proper treatment, most cases of nosebleeding stop within 10 minutes.

Epistaxis Prognosis

In case of heavy bleeding or too many episodes of Epistaxis, it is important to get in touch with a professional healthcare provider. The risk of mortality is rare. Morbidity is often the outcome of complications of packing.

Epistaxis Follow-up and Home Remedies

Nosebleeding should be properly followed up to avoid a recurrence or worsening of the problem. This involves adopting the following home remedial measures:

• Not taking hot showers, especially during warm weather conditions
• Not using cocaine
• Using a vaporizer or humidifier to add moisture to the air
• Avoiding smoking. Smoking dries out the nose and irritates it
• Avoiding straining, bending over or lifting heavy objects
• Consulting a physician about any medicines that are being used and supposed to be a cause of bleeding. The condition is found to be more frequent and severe in cases where individuals take Aspirin.
• Using a saline nasal spray, petroleum jelly or an ointment (suggested by a healthcare provider) to reduce nasal dryness

Epistaxis Prevention

Bleeding from the nose can be prevented by following these measures:

• Using a nasal spray or an ointment on the nasal septum, to keep it well-coated and moist
• Keeping the home moist with a humidifier or vaporizer
• Avoiding rubbing, picking, blowing the nose or any other activity that might injure the nasal membranes
• Limit the usage of medicines like Ibuprofen and Aspirin that can increase bleeding
• Adjust the dosage of your medicines, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and Warfarin, only under the supervision of your physician. Self-adjustment without proper knowledge might lead to the condition.
• Sneezing through an open mouth, and not the nose
• Avoiding inserting anything solid into the nose, including cotton applicators and even fingers

Epistaxis and Nasal Spray

Applying a saline nasal spray two to three times in each nostril a day can remedy the condition. Saline nasal sprays can be made at home or purchased over-the-counter. However, you can also create one at home. The steps to making a saline nasal spray at home are as follows:

Picture 2 – Epistaxis Image

• Get 1 quart of tap water.
• Add 1 tsp salt into it and combine well to form a uniform mixture.
• Boil the water for 15-20 minutes to free it of all impurities.
• Clean a bottle thoroughly and pour a little of the water into it for the purpose of disinfecting it. Throw out the water.
• Cool the remaining water until it comes down to a lukewarm temperature. Now pour it into the bottle and use as a spray.

Epistaxis Differential Diagnosis

The differential diagnosis of Epistaxis involves distinguishing the signs of the disorder from those of other conditions that give rise to similar symptoms. These include:

• Chemical irritants
• Dipyridamole toxicity
• Heparin toxicity
• Hepatic failure
• Leukemia
• Trauma
• Tumor
• Thrombocytopenia
• Ticlopidine toxicity

Following nosebleeding, patients should be treated and managed in as calm a manner as possible to reduce their anxiety. Epistaxis is not a complicated condition and can be cured with proper treatment and follow-up. Following treatment, it is important to adopt follow-up measures to make an effective recovery from the problem.

References:

Tan  LK, Calhoun  KH.  Epistaxis.  Med Clin North Am.  1999;83:43–56.

Randall DA; Epistaxis packing. Practical pointers for nosebleed control. Postgrad Med. 2006 Jun-Jul;119(1):77-82.

The post Epistaxis appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

What is Mastoiditis?

Medical researchers define Mastoiditis as a form of ear infection that affects the mastoid bone located in a segment of the skull that is positioned posterior to the external ear.

Mastoiditis in Children

This condition usually affects children. Acute cases of this disorder are quite frequent in children. In kids, Mastoiditis presents itself as a dangerous condition. Children affected with this disease are found to have their affected ear protruding out to an extent and mildly pulled down. This occurs due to moderate inflammation of the soft tissues and skin posterior to the ear over the mastoid region.

Most kids with this disorder need immediate hospitalization. Antibiotics and middle ear drainage is required for cure. An abscess that is present rear to the ear must be surgically drained out. If this does not improve the infection, a Mastoidectomy surgery needs to be done.

Mastoiditis in Adults

Picture 1 – Mastoiditis
Source – mountnittany

This disease mainly affects children but can also be seen in adults. In grown up individuals, the condition may be characterized by symptoms like:

• Intermittent ear drainage
• Irritability
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Ear lobe inflammation
• Tenderness behind the ear
• Redness behind the ear

In acute cases of this disorder, there can also be drooping and bulging of ears in adults. The syndrome may arise due to the development of a skin cyst known as Cholesteatoma in the middle ear. This can obstruct drainage of the ear and lead to the development of this condition.

Chronic Mastoiditis

It is an infection of the mastoid bone and the middle ear. The condition is also known as Chronic Suppurative Mastoiditis. The disorder gives rise to very discomforting symptoms like persistent drainage from the eardrum. It is an acute infection that can damage the middle ear structures and the mastoid bone. It can also result in various intracranial complications. Some of these can create life risks.

This disorder arises when a chronic inflammation known as Chronic Otitis Media affects the mastoid. It is generally characterized by a puncture in the eardrum, with sporadic drainage of infected material through the eardrum aperture. There is no bone destruction in this condition unlike Coalescent Mastoiditis. However, there may be thickening and inflammation of the lining within the mastoid bone. The disorder may also arise due to a condition known as Cholesteatoma that obstructs the linkage between the mastoid bone and the middle ear.

Mastoiditis Complications

Some of the main complications of Mastoiditis are :

• Mastoid Bone destruction
• Vertigo or Dizziness
• Epidural abscess
• Spread of infection throughout the body or to the brain
• Facial paralysis
• Meningitis
• Partial or total loss of hearing

Bilateral Mastoiditis

This is a type of Mastoiditis characterized by the development of swollen lumps on the back of the head. Sufferers experience blockage in their ear for days and months without any apparent pain.

Coalescent Mastoiditis

It is actually an Acute Otomastoiditis that arises when mucoperiosteal disease spreads to involve the mastoid bone. This leads to a reabsorption of the septae that normally separates one mastoid air cell from the other. This change is only easily appreciated on thin section bone-algorithm through the temporal bones.

Masked Mastoiditis

It refers to an Acute Mastoiditis complication that fails to resolve with antibiotic treatment and leads to the development of Granular Osteitis of low intensity in the mastoid bone. This disorder is characterized by pain in the head and the ear as well as a general ill-feeling. However, the disease is generally asymptomatic and lurks silently. It can lead to the formation of abscess as well as other complications.

What Causes Mastoiditis?

This condition is generally caused by an untreated condition known as Acute Otitis Media, which is actually a Middle Ear Infection. The infection may spread to the mastoid bone of the skull from the ear. Acute Otitis Media leads to an accumulation of the mastoid bone with infected substances.

Acute Otitis Media most frequently occurs in children and can give rise to acute health risks if left untreated. Streptococcus Pneumoniae and Haemophilus Influenzae are other Mastoiditis causes.

Various other microbes are responsible as causes of Mastoiditis causes. These are

• Porphyromonas
• Bacteroides
• Pseuodomonas aeruginosa
• Prevotella
• Fusobacterium
• Escherichia coli
• Proteus
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Klebsiella

Mastoiditis Symptoms

Know about some of the symptoms of Mastoiditis when there is an infection of the mastoid bone. These include

• Low grade fever
• Headache
• Inflammation of the Tympanic membrane of ear
• Profusion of thick, pus-filled fluid draining from ear
• Redness in bone posterior to the ear
• Erythematous (Unusual redness of the skin caused by dilation of blood vessels)

Mastoiditis Diagnosis

This disorder is diagnosed by an examination of the skull. This is usually carried out with the aid of physical examination as well as medical imaging tests like CT scan of the head and the ear and an X-Ray examination of the skull. These tests can effectively show any unusual defect of the mastoid bone. Blood Tests may also be conducted to detect this syndrome.

In some cases, doctors may carry out a culture of the drainage from the sufferer’s ear to detect any bacterial presence. However, the results for this bacterial culture may be found negative if the sufferer has already started taking antibiotics for cure. If all other diagnostic methods fail to show results, an Exploratory Surgery may be conducted as a last resort.

Mastoiditis Treatment

Antibiotic medicines are most frequently used in the treatment for Mastoiditis. However, surgical drainage and operation may also be used in some cases for curing acute cases of this condition. Antibiotic drugs may be administered over a prolonged duration, particularly if there is a high progression of this infection. Even though the type of drugs used vary in nature, the initial treatment is usually carried out with the aid of a broad spectrum of antibiotics. In some individuals, antibiotic can be used after performing a bacterial culture.

This health syndrome may be difficult to cure. This is due to the fact that the drugs may be unable to reach into the depths of the mastoid bone. Long-term or repeated cure of this disorder may be required in such cases. The infection may be cured with the aid of injected and oral doses of antibiotics.

Mastoiditis Surgery

If an antibiotic therapy is unsuccessful in treating the infection, a type of surgery needs to be conducted for Mastoiditis cure. This operative procedure is known as Mastoidectomy and involves drainage of the Mastoid bone as well as surgical removal of a part of it. Another surgery, known as Myringotomy, is also carried out for its treatment and involves drainage of the mid-section of the ear through the Tympanum (eardrum).

Mastoiditis Prognosis

This condition can be cured with treatment. However, it is difficult to treat this syndrome completely and it may recur after an interval.

If you or anyone in your family is suffering from a persistent ear infection that fails to improve with treatment, you should immediately get in touch with a healthcare professional. Prompt treatment of this disease has often been found to be highly effective in curing this disorder. Early diagnosis and cure will help in achieving a faster recovery from this disorder.

References:

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001034.htm

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/784176-overview

http://www.umm.edu/ency/article/001034.htm

http://www.hearinginfo.org/DiseasesDisorders/mastoiditis.htm

The post Mastoiditis appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

As the name suggests, hoarse voice, also known as laryngitis, makes for an anomalous alteration of voice resulting form vocal cords disorder.

How does Hoarse Voice occur?

Normally, vocal cords in the larynx will be open, coming together to make sounds when you are speaking. When you are speaking the closed vocal cords vibrate as air comes from the lungs. This vibration is actually what brings about sound to your voice. Hoarse voice therefore comes about when the folds of the vocal cords have obstructions, swellings, mucus or other alterations in the larynx’s surface hindering their vibrations.

Is Hoarse Voice a fatal condition?

Hoarse voice is clearly not a fatal case. It is only a change in voice quality which could be characterized by gravelling, strained or raspy sounds. In addition, the volume can change in which case the individual produces breathy, weak, croaking, soft, loud or fading sounds. The pitch also changes with the patient producing lower or higher pitches subject to the cause of the condition. Sometimes however, the patient may exhibit a blend of all the features.

What are the Causes of hoarse Voice?

As you would acknowledge, the variations in the voice of the patient will be dependent on the causes especially as pertaining to changes relating to the pitch of the voice. There are a wide range of hoarse voice causes some of which relate to habit and others are as pertaining to predisposing factors like diseases and infections. The specific causes of the hoarse voice also determine the severity of the disease.

Habitual hoarse voice causes

Habitual causes are actually the commonest causes of the hoarse voice. These include using the voice excessively through prolonged shouting or talking and smoking or use of marijuana and tobacco. In addition, there is the use of unnatural or unsuitable pitch when one is speaking would result to vocal.

Other habitual causes relate to chemical exposure especially household cleaners and even pollutants. Arduous vocal use would also result in vocal hemorrhage thus resulting in hoarse voice.

Hoarse Voice due to disorders relating to the respiratory system

There are several disorders in the respiratory system that would cause hoarse voice. These include lesions in the vocal cords, influenza and even allergies. Other causes of hoarse voice relate to laryngitis which is an inflammatory disorder as well as viral infection in the respiratory system like common cold.

Illnesses as causes of Hoarse Voice

Hoarse voice can have its cause traced to other ailments like strep throat, common cold and even mononucleosis. It is quite normal to have sore throat and hoarse voice in case if a person is suffering from common cold.  These can actually be termed as normal and very common illnesses. However, there are times when the disorder would be pointing at health problems that are more serious and therefore requiring immediate medical attention. These include serious ailments like cancer of the throat, Parkinson’s disease, lung cancer as well as multiple sclerosis. This therefore underlines the importance of seeking immediate medical attention once you have this disorder so that the severity and seriousness can be determined and sorted out quickly.

Serious causes of Hoarse Voice

You would note that hoarse voice can either be a symptom or a result of various other conditions. Causes however vary in the degree of seriousness. There are causes that would be bordering on the fatal and therefore necessitating emergency medical attention. For example, in cases where the tissue flap located between the windpipe and the tongue swells or becomes inflamed. You definitely would be looking at a situation where you have problems with breathing too which is actually a grave condition. Other conditions include serious hemorrhage as well as laryngeal cancer.

Other predisposing causes of Hoarse Voice

These pertain to certain disorders and functions of the body that would result in contracting hoarse voice. They include tumor of the thyroid glands, vocal cords paralysis and even goiter. As you would acknowledge, the severity of these conditions differ. In addition to these, cases where the muscles of the vocal cords move involuntarily, a condition known as spasmodic dysphonia can also result in hoarse voice.

Hoarse Voice in babies

Baby hoarse voice can be congenital caused by deformity in the voice box or problems with nerves.

Hoarse Voice in children

Hoarse voice in children need to be considered seriously of the problem persists for more than three months. If the child has had hoarse voice from the time he/she started speaking and if  there is no improvement in the conditions, medical treatment for hoarse voice need to be considered.

What are the symptoms of Hoarse Voice?

The severity of the symptoms of hoarse voice will be directly related with the underlying causes of hoarse voice. There are various symptoms that would be testament to other more serious conditions for example cancer, lung disease etc. Many are the times when the symptoms adhering to the respiratory system will be involving other parts of the body.

Hoarse voice also comes along other symptoms adhering to the respiratory system. These include sore throats, nasal congestion, difficulty in swallowing, coughs as well as bad breath. In addition, the patient will often want to clear their throats as they feel like there is a lump on their throats. Their throats or tonsils would also be covered with white patches or pus.

Disorders in other systems of the body may also be accompanied by hoarse voice. These include fever, tremors, unexplained loss of weight, neck lumps, heartburns, earache as well as tremors. In addition, the patient may be experiencing impaired coordination and balance as well as enlarging of the lymph nodes.

As much as hoarse voice may not be a fatal condition in itself, some of its symptoms may be an indication of an even more serious condition. These include tremors, unexplained loss of weight as well as impaired breathing. Impaired breathing is mainly caused by the inflammation of the tissues flap lying between the windpipe and the tongue. The patient may also feel as if they have a lump on their throats and even have their throats covered with white patches or pus, conditions that are very serious and requiring immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis of hoarse Voice

In most cases, the medical practitioner will conduct a physical examination of the condition. In other cases, the medical practitioner will carry out an anamnesis, an examination that takes quite some time sometimes going for as long as three weeks. This incorporates a state where the throat comes along with severe pain in times of swallowing food or beverages as well as high fever.

In carrying out a diagnosis the medical practitioner will ask questions pertaining to the symptoms that the patient may be exhibiting as well as some relating to causes like smoking, consuming excessive amounts of alcohol as well as exposure to pollutants and other chemicals. The practitioner will also ask questions pertaining to difficulties in the breathing, swallowing, pain in the throat etc. they will also ask questions on any medications that one may have taken. All these are aimed at diagnosing the severity of the disease as well as whether there are underlying causes, infections or illnesses.

Treatment of Hoarse Voice

Hoarse voice may be a result or a symptom of underlying infections. Nevertheless, it is important that a patient with this condition undertakes to seek medical attention having in mind that hoarse voice can be an indication of even more serious disorders like cancer of the throat.

It would be important to note that hoarse voice treatment will be dependent on the underlying causes as well as the severity of the condition. In case of infections that are not severe, the patient could just take warm water which would restore the functioning of the vocal cords. Giving your cords a rest would also be important incase of excessive use of the same.

There are also instances where the condition would be healed by having dietary as well as nutritional supplements. These include herbs like barberry, German Chamomile, Echinacea, eucalyptus, slippery elm and peppermint. All these soothe the sore throat. Licorice may also be used to provide a relief to respiratory ailments like allergies, sore throats, bronchitis and colds. However, care should be taken while using this especially for pregnant women, people with heart or liver conditions or with obesity.

Medications in modern hospitals could also include inhaling of steroids which take care of allergies that may be causing the hoarse voice. Antihistamines would also be used in such scenarios. In cases of bacterial infection, antibiotics could be used.

There are times when the seriousness of the underlying infections will necessitate medical operations and hoarse voice thyroid surgery especially when it involves cancer of thyroid glands. Treatment would however dictate doing away with the underlying causes like smoking and taking of excessive amounts of alcohol.

Home remedies for Hoarse Voice

Fresh tulsi leaves juice along with a teaspoonful of honey 4 times daily is one of the best hoarse voice remedy. You could also take warm mild blended with sugar and black pepper two times a day. A solution of Akkarakara powder in warm water would also increase the saliva secretion thus preventing dryness of the throat. Only 600 mg of this should be taken two times a day.However that there is need for proper diagnosis before flowing any hoarse voice remedy.

Are there potential complications of Hoarse Voice?

If treatment for hoarse voice is not taken on time, the vocal folds would become thickened and develop hard skin on their surface due to overuse of the larynx glands. Other hoarse voice complications would include the broadening of the infections and cancer as well as permanent loss of the voice. This therefore underlines the importance of treatment of hoarse voice in the earliest time possible so that hoarse voice can be arrested in time.

Reference:

http://www.ohniww.org/ent-specialist-library/video-library/throat-problems-hoarse-voice-sore-throat-causes-ent-specialists/

http://www.pacific-ent.com/voice-hoarseness-ent-specialist-orange-county-san-diego-ca.htm#hoarseness

The post Hoarse Voice – Causes, Symptoms, Complications and Treatment appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

What Are Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck?

Picture 1 – Swollen Lymph Node in Neck
Source – drugster

These refer to the inflammation or enlargement of lymph nodes located in the neck area that is just below the chin. There are over 600 lymph nodes in the human body. The ones located in the neck get enlarged most frequently.

This disease is also known by many other names like lymphadenitis, swollen glands and swollen nodes. It is also referred to as swollen cervical lymph nodes. The term cervical refers to ‘cervix’ which means ‘neck’.

Chronic enlargement of neck lymph nodes is also known as Lymphadenopathy. When lymph nodes get inflamed in more than one regions of the body, the condition is known as Generalized Lymphadenopathy.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck Types

Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck are classified into six types. These are

Anterior Cervical Lymph Nodes

These are located in the frontal area of the neck. These are further classified into deep and superficial nodes.

Posterior Cervical Lymph Nodes

These are situated at the back area of the neck and extend from the middle of the head (mastoid region of the temporal bone) to the collar bone (clavicle). These usually get enlarged when there is an infection of the upper respiratory tract.

Tonsillar Lymph Nodes

These nodes are located just under the jaw bone and drain the back of pharynx as well as the tonsils.

Sub-mandibular Lymph Nodes

These abnormal structures arise along the bottom of the jaw bone and drain the base of the lips, conjunctiva and the tongue. They generally swell due to infections of the neck, eyes, pharynx, ears, head and sinuses.

Sub-mental Lymph Nodes

These lymph nodes are situated just under the chin and drain the base of the mouth, cheek, tongue, teeth and lower lip. These types of nodes arise as a result of toxoplasmosis, dental infections like Periodontitis and Mononucleosis.

Supraclavicular Lymph Nodes

These nodes are seen to arise just above the collar bone (clavicle).

Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck Symptoms

Know about some of the main symptoms of swollen lymph nodes in neck.

Pain in Neck – The neck area feels painful when touched. Pain in neck is the first symptom of this disorder.

Soreness – Patients often experience extreme soreness in the throat.

High Fever – People with enlarged lymph nodes frequently suffer from high body temperatures.

Rash – Sufferers also have rashes arising on various parts of the body.

Redness – There is also redness in the neck area where the lymph nodes have suffered an enlargement.

What Causes Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck?

Some of the main causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck are :

Bacterial Infection – Conditions resulting from a bacterial infection such as Septicemia or Strep throat often lead to swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

Cancer – Cancerous conditions, such as lymphatic cancer, are also responsible for this disease.

Parasitic Infection – Infections caused by parasites are also a cause of Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck.

Autoimmune Diseases – Autoimmune disorders such as HIV infection can also result in this condition.

Some other Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck causes are ear infection, mononucleosis, tuberculosis, tonsillitis, mouth sores, sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and skin infections. Skin conditions like impetigo, sebaceous cysts and acne may also be responsible for giving rise to enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. These are also caused by serious disorders like Larynx Cancer, Hodgkin ’s disease, Leukemia and Mouth Cancer.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck Diagnosis

The diagnosis of this condition is mainly carried out through observation and physical tests. The enlarged area is touched with hand to check whether there is an inflammation. A total physical examination is performed by doctors and the medical history of the patient is also taken into account to carry out a proper analysis.

Doctors may also ask the patient if he or she is suffering from other symptoms like fever, chills, sore throat, weight loss and fatigue. The sexual activity and a history of the patient’s medications and vaccinations are also analyzed for a proper diagnosis.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck Treatment

This condition has no specific treatment. Curing this disease requires treating the underlying disorder. If Lymphoma (lymphatic cancer) is the cause of this disease, treating the malignancy will automatically shrink the enlarged lymph nodes.

If infection is the cause of this disease, treating that infectious condition will make Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck cure possible. If a bacterially infectious disease like strep throat is the cause, doctors are likely to use analgesics (painkillers) like Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen. The dosage of these drugs will depend on the doctor’s prescription. The complete antibiotic course needs to be followed. Patients should not stop the course before time. This will make the course ineffective and the condition is likely to persist.

If sore Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck are accompanied by pain in the ear, an ear infection may be the cause. An ENT specialist should carry out treatment. The treatment of ear infection requires use of antibiotics. Antibiotics are very effective in treatment of Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck. However, these medicines are ineffective if the condition is a result of flu and common cold virus.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck Home Remedies

Home treatment for swollen lymph nodes in neck is done by a number of ways. These involve

Saline Water – Add one-fourth teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Stir the mixture to dissolve salt well into water. Use this mixture to gargle every day. Gargle with this solution for three to five times every day for a week after you begin suffering from irritation and soreness in throat.

Hot Compress – Moisten a clear washcloth with some hot water. Wring out the extra water to make the cloth dry. Place the warm cloth over the enlarged area of your neck. The warmth will help drain out the fluid accumulated in the lymph nodes and reduce tenderness and swelling in the region.

Warm Water – Drink seven to eight glasses of warm water every day. The warmth should be a few degrees more than room temperature. Warm water will flush out toxins from the body and also clear out lymph node fluids.

Rest – If an infection is the cause of swollen glands, giving rest to the body can help tackle the disease. Adequate rest gives power to the body and makes it capable of healing itself. This boosts the immune system and makes it capable of combating infection more effectively.

Vitamin C – Taking Vitamin C supplements can boost the natural immunity of sufferers and make them able to combat infection. If you do not like supplements, you can include foods rich in Vitamin C in your diet. Some Vitamin C-rich foods are cabbage, broccoli, tomatoes, sweet red peppers and citrus fruits such as oranges.

Constant Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck

Many people suffer from persistent swollen lymph nodes in neck. In such cases, the lymph nodes remain swollen for a long time. The size of the nodes does not alter and remains the same for a long period of time. This usually happens when a person suffers from some kind of an allergy. A spinal misalignment is also a cause of Chronic swollen lymph nodes in neck. However, enlarged neck lymph nodes that refuse to go away can also be a sign of cancerous conditions such as Lymphoma.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck Problems

If left untreated, enlarged lymph nodes in the neck may give rise to many complications. If enlargement is the result of an untreated infection a pus-filled abscess may arise. This may need antibiotic treatment and drainage by incision. The skin under the inflamed lymph node may also suffer an infection.

The lymph node may also become too large in size and squeeze other structures located nearby. This can lead to serious complications. In worse cases, the affected person may become completely incapable for work.

How Long Do Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck Last?

Neck lymph nodes remain firm or swollen long after the underlying infection is cured. This is generally true in case of Swollen Lymph Nodes in children’s Neck. The size of glands in children reduces but remains hard and visible for several weeks even after infection has gone away. Swollen lymph nodes in neck of children are quite common and frequently arise due to common cold. A lymph node in a child is said to be enlarged if its diameter is larger than 1 cm.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck Cancer

In some cases, an enlarged lymph node can be a sign of throat cancer. Generally, there are seemingly harmless symptoms during the initial stages of throat cancer. This includes a swollen neck lymph node, painful swallowing, sore throat and a hoarse voice. Ear pain, slurred speech and numbness of facial muscles are some other symptoms of this condition. The symptoms can become persistent if there is a cancer. A patient can have swollen lymph nodes in neck for months in case of a malignancy.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck STD

In some cases, enlarged neck lymph nodes may be a sign of a sexually transmitted disease. This frequently happens due a Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infection.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck on One Side

In some people, only one side of the neck gets swollen. Enlargement of lymph nodes in only one part of the neck can be an indication of severe medical disorders such as tuberculosis, toxoplasmosis, ear infections, sinus infections, rubella and HIV infection.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck are usually harmless and go away with treatment. However, these can become malignant in certain cases. It is important to get in touch with a doctor if your lymph nodes persist for two weeks or more despite home treatment. Early treatment will help you get cured from this condition at the earliest.

References:

http://www.wisegeek.com/how-do-i-know-if-i-have-swollen-lymph-nodes.htm

http://www.bettermedicine.com/article/swollen-neck-lymph-nodes

http://www.umm.edu/ency/article/003097.htm

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/swollen-lymph-nodes/DS00880

http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/swollen-lymph-nodes-topic-overview

http://www.healthhype.com/causes-of-swollen-neck-lymph-nodes.html

The post Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

Some of the alternate names for it are eardrum rupture, perforated eardrum and Tympanic membrane perforation.

Eardrum or Tympanic Membrane

Tympanic membrane is a thin translucent oval shaped tissue layer present deep inside the ear canal. It separated the external ear from middle and internal ear.

Picture 1 – Eardrum
Source – marshfieldclinic

Tympanic membrane is called eardrum as it looks and act as a drum.  It receives sound from outside and carries the vibration to the tiny bones or ossicles in the middle ear.

As the membrane is thin, it can be ruptured due to various reasons and exposes the middle and inner ear to outside and make the ear prone for infection.

Functions of Eardrum

Eardrum performs two important roles.

1. Act as a barrier protecting the middle and internal ear from water, foreign substances and germs.
2. Eardrum helps in hearing by receiving sound waves and transferring it to middle ear. The middle and internal ear convert the sound waves to impulses.

How do we hear?

The sound waves that comes from outside, pass through the external ear and hit the eardrum and make it to vibrate. The vibrations are passed to the bones in the middle ear and these tiny bones transfer the waves to cochlea of the inner ear where the vibrations are converted into sound signals sent to brain. The brain send impulses back to ear and as a result we hear sounds.

Is Hearing Affected by Ruptured Eardrum?

Hearing is affected greatly if the eardrum is ruptured. The intensity of hearing loss depends on the size and location of the perforation. If the bones in the inner ear is located due to trauma, the hearing loss will be almost complete. Eardrum Perforations related to chronic infections may lead to permanent hearing loss.

Is it safe to fly with Perforated Eardrum?

Ruptured Eardrum flying is safe as the perforation in the middle ear easily allows the air to pass in and out. When the plane lands, the pressure inside the ear becomes lower than that of the pressure inside the aircraft. This causes an inward pull of the eardrum which is only temporary.

Does a Ruptured Eardrum hurt?

A ruptured eardrum could be completely painless. It pains only in extreme perforations from infection and trauma.

Ruptured Eardrum Causes

The ruptured eardrum causes include;

• Otitis Media or ruptured eardrum infections– Otitis media is the inflammation of middle ear (the space between the inner ear and ear drum). Inflammation can be due to infection. The fluids produced as a result of inflammation cannot be drained out because of clogged Eustachian tubes. The pressure from this accumulated fluid may rupture the eardrum.

• Acoustic Trauma– A loud sound as in gun shot or an explosion can cause tear in tympanic membrane.

• Ear Barotrauma– Barotrauma is the physical damage to ear caused due to internal and external pressure difference. The pressure difference creates vaccum within the middle ear and the eardrum tends to move inwards. In extreme cases, the eardrum may rupture.

• Physical Trauma– Physical trauma may be caused due to insertion of cotton swabs for cleaning the ear or foreign objects that enter the ear accidentally. Other causes of physical trauma could be motor vehicle accidents, fall etc.

• Grommets– Grommets are tiny tubes placed in the ear that are used to treat glue ear or fluid in the ear. These tubes drain mucus from the ear to outside. When the Grommets get displaced from the ear, a hole is left behind in the ear.

Ruptured Eardrum in Children

Ruptured eardrum in children is a very common condition as children are regularly exposed to other children with cold and respiratory infection. Middle ear infection related eardrum perforation is reported more in children between 6 months and 1.5 years old.

Ruptured Eardrum Adults

Ruptured eardrum in adults could be mainly due to an instrument that is put inside the ear for wax removal.

Symptoms of Ruptured Eardrum

The ruptured eardrum symptoms are corrected by itself most of the times. Rarely the ruptured eardrum signs get worse and need immediate treatment.
The common symptoms of a ruptured eardrum include;

• Ruptured eardrum pain – Sharp pain or discomfort in the ears
• Drainage from the ear- If the cause of perforation is infection, there will be drainage from the ear.
• Dizziness – Dizziness accompanied by nausea and vomiting is common in perforated eardrum cases.
• Ruptured eardrum bleeding
• Tinnitus- unusual ringing sounds in the ear
• Hearing loss- Perforated eardrum hearing loss is due to the interruption in the transfer of vibrations from the external ear.

Who are at risk of Eardrum Perforation?

• Scuba divers
• People who use ear buds regularly to clean their ears
• People who received an injury to the ear

Ruptured Eardrum Diagnosis

Perforated eardrum can be easily diagnosed by using an instrument called auriscope or an otoscope. Auriscope is a small instrument with a lens and a light that allows the doctor to look into the inside of the ear. If the eardrum is rupture, the doctor will be able to see it as a small hole inside the ear and the small bones in the middle ear may be visible. If there is fluid drainage from the ear, the doctor may recommend for a lab test of the fluid to find out the organism that caused infection.

Ruptured Eardrum Treatment

In most of the cases of ruptured eardrum, treatment is not necessary as the condition correct by itself in 4-5 weeks time. Rarely, the condition gets worse and treatment becomes necessary. Not all the cases of perforated eardrum need treatment. Many of them live with a small perforation without any significant symptom or hearing loss.
Common treatment plan include;

• Medications- Antibiotics are prescribed in case of infection with ruptured eardrum drainage and Analgesics to relieve from ear pain.
• Tympanoplasty- Tympanoplasty is the surgery performed to repair the ruptured eardrum and the bones in the middle ear. Tympanoplasty procedure may require tympanic grafting in which the graft is taken from the muscle sheath of the ear lobe. Synthetic grafts are used in patients with limited graft availability.

Is Eardrop safe for Ruptured Eardrum?

Eardrop is not 100% safe for ruptured eardrum. Eardrops cause ototoxicity when used for longer period of time.

Ruptured Eardrum Prognosis

Though perforated eardrum causes discomfort and pain, it usually repairs by itself. Ruptured eardrum healing normally takes 2-3 weeks. The ruptured eardrum hearing  loss may be temporary.

• Antibiotic treatment is 100% successful and it prevents further infection and closes the perforation completely.
• If the hearing loss is not restored by itself, surgery may be needed, which may be 80-90% successful in regaining the complete hearing loss.

Eardrum Perforation Prevention

• Ear infections must not be neglected, but treated promptly and immediately.
• Do not use ear buds or other sharp objects to clean the interior of ear.

Reference :
http://www.noseandsinus.net/PDF%20Documents/Perforated%20Eardrum_PT-INFO.pdf

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002033/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002033/

The post Ruptured Eardrum Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

What is Tonsillitis?

Picture 1 – Tonsillitis
Source – typepad

Tonsillitis is a health condition that is characterized by swollen or inflamed tonsils. As you must be aware, tonsils are the two large masses of tissue in the throat that act as a defense against invading germs and organisms. There is a tonsil on either side of the throat. When one or both of these tissue balls suffer an inflammation, there is a case of Tonsillitis. If the tonsils get too enlarged, they may even be touching each other.

Swollen tonsils in children are also known as kissing tonsils. However, there may also be a case of Swollen Tonsils on one side.

Symptoms of Swollen Tonsils

Tonsillitis comes with many symptoms. Some of the major Tonsillitis symptoms are :

Inflammation

Inflammation or swelling is one of the main symptoms of Tonsillitis in adults as well as children. Swollen tonsils lead to difficulties in swallowing and cause much discomfort while eating or drinking. Sufferers may also find it difficult in opening their mouth.

Red Tonsils

The tonsils may appear red in case of an inflammation. Red Swollen Tonsils are very common in case of a cold virus infection. Tonsillitis in babies leads to very red tonsils.

Patches

In people with swollen tonsils white spots or yellow patches are often visible. Swollen Tonsils with white spots give the mouth a ghastly appearance.

Foul Breath

The patients of Tonsillitis also commonly suffer from a bad breath condition.

Sore Throat

The patients may also experience soreness in the throat. This is felt even in normal circumstances. If you have a sore throat Swollen Tonsils may be the cause.

Headache

Pain in the throat also gives rise to headache in sufferers.

Sore Eyes

Inflammation in the tonsils can also make the suffering person experience soreness in the eyes.

Aches in Body

Inflammation and pain in the tonsils can also give rise to aches in the body in the suffering person.

Fever

In some cases, high fever may also be one of the signs of Tonsillitis.

Chills

The patient may also experience chills in the body because of Swollen Tonsils and glands.

Pain

In Swollen Tonsils no pain usually arises until the suffer tries eating and drinking. An acute pain is felt while consuming anything. Even drinking liquids like water can be quite painful.

Acute Tonsillitis

Picture 2 – Acute Tonsillitis
Source – google

In worse cases of tonsil inflammation, the patient suffers from acute Tonsillitis. This happens due to bacterial or viral infection in the throat. An acute condition of the tonsils gives rise to symptoms like bad breath, fever and sore throat other than usual discomforts like difficulty in swallowing. Acute Tonsillitis in children often makes them miss out on school.

What causes Swollen Tonsils?

How do you get Tonsillitis? People with swollen tonsils are often curious to know what causes Tonsillitis. Check out some of the major causes of Tonsillitis.

Virus

Common cold viruses like Adenovirus, Coronavirus or Rhinovirus are found to be one of the most common causes of Swollen Tonsils. Viral Tonsillitis is also caused by Epstein-Barr virus and Influenza virus.

Bacteria

Infection by bacteria like Group A β-hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS), Streptococcus pneumonia, Chlamydia pneumonia and Staphylococcus Aureus can lead to this disease. Other bacteria that give rise to venereal diseases like Gonorrhea and Syphilis may also result in this condition.

Low Immunity

Adults or children suffering from low immunity are more likely to be infected by bacteria or viruses resulting in tonsil inflammation.

Spicy Foods

Spicy and pungent foods or condiments often cause an infection and subsequent inflammation of the tonsils.

Respiratory Infection

The swelling of the tonsils can give rise to respiratory infection that goes away and comes back after regular intervals.

Risk factor from Swollen Tonsils

Picture 3 – Swollen Tonsil
Source – kids-ent

Swollen tonsils may not lead to life-threatening complications. But they can cause some serious discomforts in the suffering person which may impair his or her daily activities. These include :

Greatly Swollen Tonsils

If the tonsils swell and get enlarged too much, the affected person may suffer from difficulties in breathing.

Ear Infection

Acute cases of tonsillitis can result in recurring pain in ears. In some cases, it may even lead to ear infection.

Heart Disease

If bacterial infection of the tonsils is not treated in time, the patient may suffer from heart ailments.

Retarded Development

Children suffering from recurring cases of Tonsillitis are seen to have slow development. Such kids often miss out on school.

Mouth Abscesses

Recurring attacks of Tonsillitis in adults can give rise to abscesses in the mouth which may turn into a medical emergency.

Swollen Tonsils Remedy

Want to know how to get rid of swollen tonsils? Medical professionals usually carry out Swollen Tonsils treatment by using antibiotics for 7 to 10 days. Use of antibiotics for Tonsillitis cure is very common. Analgesics are used to provide relief from pain. Anti-inflammatory medicines and drugs like Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen that reduce fever are also used as a cure.

Tonsillitis cases resulting from infection by Group A β-hemolytic streptococcus is cured by antibiotics like Amoxicillin and Penicillin. If the patient suffers from a Penicillin allergy, medicines like Erythromycin may be prescribed for Tonsillitis treatment.

Removing tonsils may be necessary in chronic cases of Tonsillitis. Tonsillectomy or surgical removal of the tonsils is normally used in worst cases. Such cases involve swollen tonsils in children that recur twice a month. It can cause speech impairments, swallowing difficulties, respiratory problems and even heart illnesses.

Other than medicines, there are also some useful home remedies for Tonsillitis. Doctors often advise patients of severe Tonsillitis to use these remedies alongside medical treatment.

Swollen Tonsils Treatment (Home)

Want to know some of the home remedies for swollen tonsils? Here are some remedies that are often used for Tonsillitis cure. Go over these to find out how to treat Swollen Tonsils in the comforts of your home.

Salt water Gargle

Warm a glass of water. Add in one teaspoon full of salt into this and mix well. Gargle with this solution for 3-4 times a day to get temporary relief from pain and soreness in throat. It is an effective Swollen Tonsils remedy. This method also safeguards the tonsils from bacterial or viral infection.

Fenugreek Seeds

Pour a handful of Fenugreek seeds into water. Gargle with this solution daily for 3-4 times. It is supposed to be an effective way to reduce swelling in tonsils.

Vegetable Juice

Drinking juice of vegetables like cucumber, carrot and beetroot is said to be one of the powerful home remedies for Swollen Tonsils. It has been found useful in reducing swelling in tonsils.

Turmeric Powder

Pour a teaspoon of turmeric powder into a glass of milk. Mix the solution well. Drink this 2 times a day. Turmeric powder is believed to guard the body against infections.

Pictures of Swollen Tonsils

Not sure how Tonsillitis looks like. Here are some Swollen Tonsils Pictures. Check out these Swollen Tonsils pictures to know how inflamed tonsils appear to the naked eye.

Picture 4 – Swollen Tonsils
Source – homoeocure

Picture 5 – Swollen Tonsils Picture
Source – doctorspiller

Tonsillitis is not a lethal disease. At the same time, it can be very discomforting for the suffering person. The condition can disrupt daily activities like eating, drinking or even opening the mouth. Associated symptoms like fever and headache may impair the person’s ability to function. If you or anyone in your family is having a case of Swollen Tonsils, do not neglect it. Timely treatment can help you avoid a number of complications in future and enjoy life as usual.

References :

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonsillitis

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-most-common-signs-of-tonsillitis.htm

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-symptoms-of-tonsillitis.htm

http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/symptoms/tonsil_symptoms/causes.htm

The post Swollen Tonsils – Symptoms, Causes, Pictures, Treatment and Home Remedies appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

What is Post Nasal Drip?

Picture 1 – Post Nasal Drip
Source – nytimes.com

Post Nasal Drip is a medical condition in which the sufferer constantly feels a fluid accumulation at the back of his or her throat. The affected person feels that something is continuously running down the pharynx. This forces the person to cough intermittently and clear the throat. This condition of something dripping down the throat is known as “Post Nasal Drip” (PND).

The disease is also known by the name Upper Airway Cough Syndrome (UASD).

Symptoms of Post Nasal Drip

Sufferers of Post Nasal Drip Syndrome usually experience a number of discomforts like bad breath. Some of the common Post Nasal Drip symptoms are :

Lump in Throat

In people with Post Nasal Drip Lump in throat is a common problem. Having this condition makes you feel like you have a lump in their pharynx.

Hoarseness

When you suffer from Post Nasal Drip voice problems are not uncommon. The condition affects the voice quality of the sufferers. Patients suffer from a hoarse voice which can make it difficult to understand what they are saying.

Throat Clearing

As aforementioned, people with Post Nasal Drip problems constantly feel the urge to clear their pharynx. Post Nasal Drip throat clearing is one of the major symptoms noticed in most sufferers.

Sore Throat

In people with Post Nasal Drip sore throat is very common. Constant throat clearing is the cause of this problem.

Coughing

Post Nasal Drip and cough are almost inseparable. Sufferers of the disease are seen to cough constantly to clear their throat and get relief from the uncomfortable dripping feeling. Post Nasal Drip cough is one of the most visible symptoms of this syndrome.

Sleeping Difficulties

The urge to cough also disrupts sleep in people affected by this syndrome. People can suddenly wake up coughing from their sleep. This also causes a lot of problems for the affected persons’ family members.

Continuous Swallowing

The mucus running at the back of throat causes the sufferer to swallow it again and again.

Runny Nose

Constant mucus flow also leads to a runny nose in the affected person.

Nasal Congestion

The affected person also suffers from a blocked nose due to mucus accumulation in the nasal passage.

Breathing Difficulties

The sufferer also experiences respiratory problems because of mucus accumulation and nasal congestion.

Burning Feeling

Having this syndrome also makes you suffer from a burning sensation in the pharynx.

Halitosis

In many patients with Post Nasal Drip bad breath is a common phenomenon. Post Nasal Drip Halitosis is a very annoying symptom in many sufferers.

Discomfort in Stomach

People with Post Nasal Dripping suffer from an uncomfortable feeling in their stomach.

Nausea

The uneasiness in stomach often leads to a nauseating feeling or vomiting sensation in affected people. Post Nasal Drip nausea causes a lot of discomfort.

Tiredness

In sufferers of Post Nasal Drip fatigue is commonly observed. Constant coughing and throat clearing are the prime reasons behind this.

Post Nasal Drip Causes

Excessive mucus accumulation at the back of throat is one of the main causes of Post Nasal Drip. It can happen due to various reasons like :

Rhinitis

Rhinitis, whether due to allergic or non-allergic causes, can lead to an inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the nose and be a prime cause for this condition.

Sinusitis

A swelling up of any of the sinuses adjacent to the nasal cavity can also give rise to this syndrome. In both acute and chronic cases of swelling of sinus Post Nasal Drip may appear.

Laryngopharyngeal Acid Reflux

This disease gives rise to heartburn and can be a factor behind the development of this syndrome.

Allergies

Allergic attacks can also cause this disease. In many patients of Post Nasal Drip allergies are found to be the causative agent. Post Nasal Drip from allergies may be seen in some seasons or round the year.

Pregnancy

Post Nasal Drip during pregnancy is also seen in a few cases. Pregnancy causes an imbalance of the hormone levels which may give rise to this disease.

Birth-Control Pills

Using birth pills can increase the level of estrogen hormones and be a causative agent for this condition.

Nasal Polyps

Picture 2 – Nasal Polyps
Source – primehealthchannel.com

The presence of polyps or fleshy growths in the nasal passage can lead to the obstruction of the nose and cause this disease. Read more on Nasal Polyps

Post Nasal Drip Diagnosis

The diagnosis of the condition is mainly done by observation and checking the medical history of the patient. If determining the cause becomes difficult, an X-ray examination of the person’s nasal passage may be done to check if there is a sinus or nasal polyps.

Treatment for Post Nasal Drip

How to stop Post Nasal Drip? How to get rid of Post Nasal Drip? These are some of the common worries Post Nasal Drip patients suffer from. Fortunately, Post Nasal Drip treatment and cure can be possible through a number of ways. The treatment of Post Nasal Drip can be done with medications and surgeries.

Antibiotics, nasal steroids, antihistamines and decongestants are some of the common Post Nasal Drip medicines. These Post Nasal Drip medications are generally used for people having mild cases of the syndrome. Applying a piece of cloth soaked in warm water over throat at regular intervals can give relief from soreness.

Post Nasal Drip remedy depends on curing the factor causing it. If nasal problems are found to be a result of allergies or acid problems, necessary medications should be used as cures for Post Nasal Drip.

In some cases, nasal irrigation is carried out with to cure the blockage of the nose. This is done with the help of bulb syringes, neti pots and squirt bottles.

For worse situations like chronic Post Nasal Drip due to bacterial infections, surgery may be necessary for permanent treatment. Post Nasal Drip surgery is usually used as a last resort.

Post Nasal Drip Remedies (Home)

Patients can try a number of natural remedies for Post Nasal Drip cure. These are normally intended to thin and dry the mucus. Some of the remedies for Post Nasal Drip cure :

Drinking Fluids

Drinking lots of fluids like water can help dissolve the mucus and flush it out. Hot drinks like soups and herbal tea can also help loosen Post Nasal Drip phlegm.

Gurgling

Gurgling with warm water containing a little baking soda and salt can also be a good cure for Post Nasal Drip mucus.

Vapor Treatment

Taking your face over a bowl of boiled water and inhaling the vapors often proves to be a suitable way to treat thick Post Nasal Drip. For people suffering from Post Nasal Drip natural treatments like these are often found to be effective.

You can try these Post Nasal Drip remedies along with your medications for best effect.

Post Nasal Drip Prevention

Beverages and spicy foods are responsible for mucus production in excess. Mucus in throat is the cause of Post Nasal Syndrome. So you can avoid this disease by keeping away from spicy foods and beverages like caffeine, diuretics or alcohol. Avoiding spicy dishes and beverages will reduce mucus production and help you prevent this annoying condition. Dishes with chilies, green peppers and hot peppers are some of the Post Nasal Drip foods to avoid.

Post Nasal Drip Risk Factors

In some cases, Post Nasal Drip can involve an ear infection. This happens when excess mucus blocks the Eustachian tube leading to a build-up of fluids. Fluid accumulation builds up pressure in the ear cause Post Nasal Drip ear pain and hearing loss.

Constant phlegm in throat and mouth can also lead to a loss of gustatory sensation. This happens because of bacteria and other compounds present in mucus. The patient suffers from a metallic taste in mouth. The loss of taste is however, a temporary one. Gustatory sensation returns after post-nasal drip has been cured.

In addition, post-nasal drip can cause alterations in taste sensations, which can cause a loss in taste or a metallic taste in the mouth. Usually, after the post-nasal drip has been resolved, taste sensations will return to normal. Aberrations in taste are usually the result of bacteria and other compounds present in mucus.

If you note Post Nasal Drip in children or adults in your family or suffering from the disorder yourself, you should seek immediate medical collection. As aforesaid, the condition is not fatal but it can lead to discomfort and cause a number of complications. It may also appear as an indication of some other complicated disease. In serious cases, it may even impair daily activities. So you must seek immediate treatment at the first sign of this annoying condition.

References:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post-nasal_drip

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-post-nasal-drip.htm

http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/p/postnasal_drip/intro.htm

http://www.webmd.com/allergies/postnasal-drip

http://www.medicinenet.com/chronic_rhinitis/article.htm

The post Post Nasal Drip – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Remedies appeared first on Prime Health Channel.