Sudden hearing loss is a rapid reduction in hearing that develops over a few hours or within three days. It may affect one ear or, less commonly, both ears. If your hearing suddenly becomes muffled, sounds seem unusually distant, or you struggle to hear through one ear, seek urgent medical assessment rather than waiting for […]
Early Signs of Head & Neck Cancer: Symptoms Not to Ignore
Head and neck cancer can affect the mouth, tongue, throat, tonsils, voice box and other nearby structures. In its early stages, the symptoms may resemble common problems such as mouth ulcers, a sore throat or voice changes. However, persistent or unexplained symptoms should not be ignored, especially when they do not improve with routine care. […]
Cold vs. Allergies vs. Sinus Infection: How to Tell the Difference
Colds, allergies, and sinus infections can all cause a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, and congestion, which can make them difficult to distinguish. A cold is usually caused by a virus and tends to improve within about 7–10 days, although cough or nasal symptoms may sometimes last longer. Allergies commonly cause repeated sneezing, an itchy […]
Can a Deviated Septum Ruin Your Sleep and Energy?
Yes, a deviated septum can contribute to poor sleep and low energy. When the wall between the nostrils (the septum) is significantly off-center, it can restrict airflow through one or both nasal passages. This can lead to mouth breathing, snoring, disrupted sleep, and reduced oxygen intake overnight, which in turn can cause daytime fatigue, poor […]
Does My Child Need Ear Tubes? Signs, Speech Delays & What to Expect
Ear tubes, also called tympanostomy tubes or ventilation tubes, may be recommended for some children who have repeated ear infections, persistent fluid behind the eardrum, hearing difficulties, or complications related to middle-ear problems. However, not every child with an ear infection or speech delay needs ear tubes. Specialists consider the child’s age, number and severity […]
Congenital Hearing Loss: Causes, Types, and Early Signs in Children
Congenital hearing loss refers to hearing loss that is present at birth. It can affect one or both ears and may range from mild difficulty hearing certain sounds to profound hearing loss. Some children with congenital hearing loss have no obvious signs during the first few months, which is why newborn hearing screening and attention […]
Can Acid Reflux Cause Hoarseness? Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Yes, acid reflux can contribute to hoarseness, especially when stomach contents reach the throat or voice box. This type of reflux is commonly called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). Reflux can irritate sensitive tissues around the throat and larynx, potentially causing changes in the voice. Some people may also experience throat clearing, chronic cough, excess mucus or […]
Salivary Gland Stones: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & When to See an ENT
Pain or swelling beneath your jaw or tongue, particularly when eating, may sometimes indicate a salivary gland stone. These stones develop when minerals in saliva harden and block the ducts that carry saliva into the mouth. Although some stones are small and cause few symptoms, others can lead to recurring pain, swelling and difficulty eating. […]
When Does a Child Need Ear Grommets? Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
A child may need ear grommets if glue ear persists for more than three months, hearing loss is affecting speech or learning, or ear infections keep recurring despite appropriate treatment. A specialist will only recommend surgery after assessing hearing, ear health, and the child's overall development – not every child with fluid in the ear needs […]
Loss of Smell: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Loss of smell, medically called anosmia when the sense of smell is completely absent and hyposmia when it is reduced, can have many causes. Common causes include colds and other infections, allergies, chronic sinus disease, nasal polyps, nasal blockage, head injury, certain medications, smoking, and aging. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Persistent, sudden, or unexplained loss […]
