COMMON THROAT DISORDERS

Tonsillitis is the inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial infections. For recurrent or severe cases, tonsillectomy (surgical removal of tonsils) may be recommended to alleviate symptoms and prevent future infections.

Progressive hoarseness is hoarseness or raspiness of the voice that is continuing or increasing in severity over a short period of time. If this occurs, seek medical treatment from your family physician or nurse practitioner. If you do not have one, you should seek medical attention at your closest emergency department. A referral to an ENT or voice specialist may be necessary. 

Laryngitis involves inflammation of the voice box (larynx), leading to hoarseness or loss of voice. In most cases, it gets better without treatment in about a week. Symptoms of laryngitis can begin suddenly and usually get worse over a period of two to three days. Voice rest, staying hydrated and using a humidifier may help improve symptoms. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking during recovery.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can contribute to throat issues due to stomach acid entering the esophagus.

Some causes may include

• medications

• diet - greasy foods, carbonate drinks (soda), caffeine, citrus fruits & juices, chocolate, spicy foods, tomatoes, mint, garlic, onions.

• stress

• smoking

Some symptoms of GERD may include:

• Non-burning chest pain, which is usually located in the middle of the chest and radiates to the back.

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

• Hoarse voice or loss of voice

• Atypical reflux symptoms relating to the throat, larynx or lungs: Sore throat, coughing, increased salivation, shortness of breath.

Prevention and Lifestyle Modifications:

• Wear loose clothing

• Sleep with an extra pillow

• Avoid earing 4 hours before bed

• Eat at a table instead of a couch

• Keep a Food Diary to track which foods trigger your symptoms

• Exercise

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals

• RELAX - try stress relieving activities like yoga, deep breathing, or listening to relaxing music

• Quit smoking

• Reduce alcohol intake

• Drink de-caffeinated beverages or reduce your intake of caffeinated or carbonated beverages

Natural Remedies

• Ginger or Chamomile Tea

• Chewing gum after a meal

• Drinking lots of water

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Ask your pharmacist about over the counter treatments, such as Antacids, H2 blockers. Some cases may require a prescription from your doctor or specialist.

Thyroid diseases occurs when the thyroid gland becomes irritated, with inflammation and swelling.There are different types of thyroid diseases, and either the thyroid gland produces too much or not enough hormones. You may feel jittery when too much is produced, or tired and depressed when not enough is produced.

Bloodwork to determine the severity and type can be done, and in some cases a referral to an endocrinologist may be beneficial. A thyroid ultrasound can be done to show the thyroid texture or enlargement, or to rule out growths, or nodules.

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Thyroid nodules are a fluid-filled or solid growth that can form within your thyroid. Most nodules are not serious, and may not cause any symptoms. A thyroid ultrasound will show the size and texture of the nodules. After which an ultrasound guided biopsy may be recommended to help with diagnosis. Based on the ultrasound and biopsy results your doctor may refer you to an ENT for assessment and possible surgical management.