Local Spring Allergens Unique to Georgia and Their Effects
The Origins of Allergens in Georgia Georgia’s unique climate and vegetation create a perfect storm for spring allergies. The state is home to mild winters and long growing seasons which means longer, staggered blooming times which create more airborne allergens. [Fun Fact: Georgia’s pine pollen is so abundant that it can travel hundreds of miles…
What To Know if Your Child’s ENT Recommends a Tonsillectomy
The tonsils are pads of tissue that line the throat and prevent germs from entering the body. When they become infected, it can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, tender lymph nodes and pain in the head, neck or stomach. If your child experiences frequent tonsil infections, your ENT at…
What Causes Throat Clearing and How to Stop It
Throat clearing is a common experience, but constant throat clearing isn’t normal. Let’s look at some common causes before we determine when it’s best to see a specialist. Common Causes of Throat Irritation Allergies and Post-Nasal DripOne major cause often has to do with allergies. When airborne allergens irritate your sinuses, the body produces more…
What Is a Goiter & What Causes It?
The term “goiter” describes an irregular growth of the thyroid, which is the butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that produces essential hormones. Goiters are relatively common, affecting approximately 5% of people in the United States, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Below, we review more about goiters and their causes. What Are…
Does My Child Need Ear Tubes?
If your child experiences chronic or recurrent ear infections, their physician may recommend that ear tubes be placed. This is a common procedure; according to Children’s Health, around 500,000 children of all ages receive ear tubes each year. Below, we review everything you need to know about ear tubes. What Are Ear Tubes? Ear tubes…
What Are Tonsil Stones?
Tonsil stones, known also as tonsilloliths, are lumps that develop within the tonsil tissues. They are usually white or yellow in color. Below we review the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of tonsil stones. What Are the Symptoms of Tonsil Stones? While in many cases, especially if the tonsil stones are small, you’ll be…
How Your Diet Can Affect Acid Reflux Symptoms
Most of us have had the occasional bout of heartburn, known also as acid reflux. However, if you notice that you’re frequently experiencing symptoms after you eat, it may wise to change your diet to help improve your acid reflux symptoms. Common Symptoms of Acid Reflux Heartburn is the most common symptom, and typically feels…
Clear Congestion and Enjoy Your Thanksgiving Meal to the Fullest
Have you ever noticed how food doesn’t taste the same when you have a cold or allergies? That’s because taste and smell are closely connected. When congestion clogs up your sinuses, as is common with sinus infections, it blocks the aromas that typically waft up through your nose and adds complexity to your taste experience….
Managing Stress-Induced Tinnitus During the Busy Fall Season
Fall brings with it a host of seasonal events, including holidays and school events. As enjoyable as these can be, the hectic schedule can also raise stress levels, which may intensify tinnitus symptoms for many. Tinnitus, often described as a ringing or buzzing in the ears without an external source, affects approximately 10% of the…
Creating Allergy-Safe Halloween Costumes: Tips for a Worry-Free Night
Halloween presents the perfect opportunity to express your creativity through fun costumes. For people with allergies, however, the new materials can create challenges. Let’s take a look at a few tips to help you create an exciting costume without triggering allergy symptoms. 1. Avoid Latex Although latex allergies are not common (affecting less than 1%…
