Spring Sinuses in Nashville, TN

While some people are anticipating warmer weather, blossoming flowers, and more time outdoors, those with allergies can only think about the watery eyes, runny nose, and itching that this time of year causes them to experience.

Spring allergies are caused by the body’s immune system responding inappropriately to something like pollen, grass, etc. As a result, people experience a wide range of symptoms that can range from mild to downright debilitating. 

People with seasonal springtime allergies are also more susceptible to sinus troubles, which makes reaching out to a specialist all the more valuable this time of year.

Preparing Your Sinuses 

The sinuses are hollow spaces in your skull that connect through a series of narrow passages. They help drain mucus from your nose and keep it free from bacteria and allergens. If your sinuses don’t function properly, you are more prone to a buildup of bacteria and toxins that can lead to inflammation and infection. 

Boosting your immunity with a healthy diet is one way you can help your sinuses get ready to fend off all the pollen and springtime allergens you’ll breathe in throughout the season.

You should also stay hydrated, as it helps keep mucus thin and helps your cilia (tiny structures that look like hair) move dirt, debris, bacteria, and other irritants out of your system. 

If you experience problems with your sinuses this time of year, reach out to a sinus specialist, like Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee. 

Common Springtime Sinus Problems

We see patients throughout the year to help treat sinus infections and other issues. However, there are two common problems people tend to report during the spring: allergies and nasal congestion.

Allergies

While sinus troubles can strike at any time, they are more common during allergy season. Spring is known for causing the most allergic symptoms due to the major increase in flower and grass pollen floating through the air, and it can lead to an immune response known as “hay fever.”

Signs you have spring allergies include:

• Nasal congestion (stuffy nose)

• Frequent sneezing

• Coughing

• Ear congestion (feeling blocked)

• Runny nose

• Watery eyes

• Sinus headaches

• Itchy nose, throat, or ears

• Feeling fatigued

• Fluid running down the throat (postnasal drip)

If you have asthma, you may also be more prone to attacks this time of year or experience frequent wheezing. Luckily, an ENT specialist can make all the difference as they can recommend the best over-the-counter medications as well as prescribe a steroid nasal spray if necessary. 

Other ways to help minimize symptoms of spring allergies include keeping your windows closed, wearing a face mask outdoors, and avoiding cigarette smoke, as it can worsen the severity of your symptoms.

Nasal Congestion

Sinuses that become blocked can lead to congestion, which may lead to headaches, tenderness, and discomfort around the face. Treating congestion is also important to help prevent the development of a sinus infection.

As with other springtime allergies, the best thing to do is avoid triggers whenever possible. Spending more time indoors and wearing a face covering outside can stop you from inhaling pollen and other air pollutants.

Natural Remedies for Sinus Health

Some effective ways to take care of your sinuses at home include drinking more water, rinsing your nose with a saline solution, and washing your hands and face regularly. 

Rinsing your sinuses can help remove a buildup of mucus, pollen, and bacteria from your nasal passages. We suggest purchasing a saline rinse from your local pharmacy rather than making your own solution at home.

Washing your hands and face regularly, and avoiding touching your nose, mouth, and eyes, can also help reduce your risk of allergen exposure. Pollen can build up on your hands and face when you spend time outdoors, so it’s best to wash both thoroughly whenever you come inside.

Read more tips for dealing with springtime allergies.

When to Seek Medical Help

Many patients only deal with allergy symptoms for a short period of time. Others may develop more serious symptoms that require medical attention. Contact a specialist if you experience: 

• Fever

• A stiff neck

• Redness and/or swelling around your eyes

• Vision changes

• An intense headache

• Pain around your eyes, nose, ears, head, or throat

Seeing an ENT specialist can ensure that you get the care you need. Treating serious sinus problems, or chronic sinusitis, requires personalized treatment that addresses the underlying causes.

This may include oral or injection corticosteroids (strong anti-inflammatory steroids), prescription medications, and in-office sinus irrigation that flushes mucus, bacteria, and any other contaminants trapped in your nasal passages.

Schedule an Appointment With Our Nashville Sinus Experts Today

If you are struggling with spring allergies or sinus troubles in Nashville, TN, our team is here to help. Contact us at Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee to learn more about our services and book your appointment.

You can also schedule an appointment directly from our website and choose which provider you would like to meet with.

How Acid Reflux Can Affect Your Throat

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition that causes stomach acid to flow back towards your throat. More specifically, the acid moves from the stomach through a tube called the esophagus that connects your mouth to your stomach and the rest of your GI tract.

Left untreated, acid reflux can cause a variety of other health problems with your throat. At our Nashville ENT and Allergy Clinic, we diagnose and treat GERD, as well as any associated conditions, through personalized care.
Read on to learn more about how acid reflux can affect your throat as well as tips for managing GERD symptoms so they do not damage your throat.

Understanding Acid Reflux

Acid reflux can be caused by the lower esophageal sphincter being too lax or not closing completely. Normally, the LES opens and allows food to pass into your stomach before closing again.

When someone has GERD, the lower esophageal sphincter does not work properly. Acid then flows back up through your throat, and it may even reach your mouth. Over time, this causes inflammation (swelling and irritation) that can lead to other issues.

Common symptoms of acid reflux are:

• A burning feeling in the chest shortly after eating (heartburn); it may worsen when you lie down

• Repeated throat clearing or the urge to clear your throat

• Hoarseness or a scratchy voice after eating

• Sore throat

• Frequent return of acid or food into the throat (regurgitation)

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) 

• Pain in your chest or upper abdominal region

• Feeling like there is a lump in your throat 

Some people are at a higher risk of developing GERD. Risk factors of acid reflux include:

• Obesity

• Nicotine 

• Overeating

• Eating before bed or late at night

• Eating GERD trigger foods, like spicy, fatty, fried, and citrus foods

• Drinking alcohol or coffee regularly

• Taking medications that can cause acid reflux, including medications for high blood pressure, some antibiotics, ibuprofen, and Aspirin, among others

The Relationship Between Acid Reflux and Throat Problems

Because stomach acid is so powerful, it can cause serious irritation and inflammation to your throat. The ongoing inflammation can become a chronic problem that leads to other conditions, including esophagitis. It can also lead to chronic inflammation that creates permanent scarring, bleeding, or lead to the development of painful ulcers. 

Diagnosis and Treatment

Doctors can diagnose acid reflux in a variety of ways, usually through a combination of physical assessment and diagnostic testing. Your doctor may perform a test called an endoscopy, in which a camera on a tube is inserted into your throat. They may also take tissue samples or perform a pH test to gauge the acid levels in your esophagus.

Treatment includes a variety of lifestyle and dietary changes, such as avoiding trigger foods, quitting smoking, and no longer drinking acidic drinks (such as alcohol and coffee). Lifestyle changes can include eating smaller portions, planning your meals well before bedtime, and elevating your head when you rest. 

You may also be prescribed medication such as antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and H2 blockers.

Prevention and Self-Care Tips

Self-care can help prevent acid reflux throat problems; for example, staying hydrated and using throat lozenges can soothe your esophagus and reduce the effects of acid on your throat. 

Managing risk factors is also helpful, as they can not only reduce symptoms but prevent the likelihood of throat problems as well. Take care to avoid risk factors like smoking, obesity, and stress.

Call OAT Today

Contact the throat experts at our Nashville ENT and Allergy Clinic today. Whether you are looking for new treatment options or seeking diagnosis, we’re here to help. Click here to connect with us and schedule an appointment.

What Causes Your Eardrum to Rupture?

Your eardrum is a protective barrier in your middle ear; it protects the rest of your ear from infection causing bacteria. It also plays a crucial role in hearing by vibrating against sound waves. 

With such a crucial role to your health and everyday life, protecting your eardrum is an important part of good ear care.

What happens if your eardrum ruptures? Aside from intense pain, you can also experience challenges with hearing and have a greater risk of infection. 

Read on to learn the causes of an eardrum rupture, potential treatment options, and how our ENT center in Nashville can help you heal.

What Is a Ruptured Eardrum?

A ruptured eardrum is called a tympanic membrane perforation, and it occurs when the eardrum tears. Much like the top of a real drum can be punctured, your eardrum’s outer layer can be torn. 

The ruptured eardrum can lead to pain, hearing loss, ear ringing (tinnitus), dizziness, and nausea. It also increases the risk of ear infection as bacteria is able to enter through the hole or tear. 

Potential causes of a ruptured eardrum include:

• A severe middle ear infection (acute otitis media)

• Perforation from a pointed object (like a Q-tip or bobby pin)

• Intense pressure changes inside the ear (barotrauma)

• Flying with an ear infection

Symptoms

It’s often easy to tell when you have a ruptured eardrum due to the sharp pain that causes it. However, some patients don’t realize their pain was caused by a rupture since it quickly subsides.

Here are the symptoms of a ruptured eardrum to watch out for:

• Sharp ear pain that disappears quickly

• Puss, mucus, or bloody drainage from your affected ear

• Persistent ringing or buzzing sound 

• Feeling dizzy or as though your head is spinning (vertigo)

• Hearing loss (sounds may appear far away or muffled) 

• Nausea or vomiting as a result of dizziness 

• Ear infection symptoms (pain, redness, discharge, hearing loss)

Diagnosing

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to reach out to an ENT clinic right away. A professional can perform an exam using an otoscope, a specialized tool with a light that can help them see inside your ear.

While an otoscopic exam can diagnose an eardrum rupture, there may be reduced visibility due to wax or fluid buildup. In this case, the doctor will clean your ear canal and try again. They might also blow a puff of air into your ear to see if the eardrum moves. If it doesn’t, then it’s ruptured.

The doctor might also perform a hearing test to see how much the ruptured eardrum has impacted your hearing. Common hearing tests include listening to different pitches of sound through headphones, or listening to tones on a tuning fork.

The good news is that if you have hearing loss from a ruptured eardrum, it will likely heal by itself. Once the eardrum recovers, your hearing should return to normal.

How to Prevent

There are several ways you can protect your eardrum rupturing. Here are our top tips:

• Never insert foreign objects, like cotton swabs, in your ear to scratch an itch or clean out wax

• Avoid flying when you have an ear infection 

• Wear protective ear covers or earplugs when you are in environments over 85 dB

• Get treatment for any ear infection right away 

If you ever experience symptoms, the best thing to do is contact a professional. Avoid any over-the-counter treatments that involve inserting drops or objects into the ear. Medication may leak through the hole or tear and cause an infection.

Call OAT Today!

At Nashville ENT center, we provide rapid diagnosis, pain relief, and treatment to help you heal from a ruptured eardrum. The Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee (OAT) team is always here to help. 

Please call us at (615) 327-4449 or fill out this online form to schedule an appointment. 

Is It Safe to Fly With an Ear Infection?

Ear infections are painful and disruptive, but what happens when you have one and need to travel? Should you postpone your trip? In this post, we’ll explore whether it’s safe to fly with an ear infection, and what to do if you can’t postpone your trip.

When you fly on an airplane, it’s not unusual to feel your ears blocked or clogged up. They may also continue to “pop” as the pressure inside the cabin changes during take-off and landing. Under normal circumstances, this is nothing to worry about. The discomfort quickly resolves when the pressure stabilizes, and your hearing returns to normal.

With an ear infection, the pressure on your ears can be much more problematic. They can lead to intense pain that could lead to an eardrum rupture.

Flying’s Effects on the Ears

Whether you love it or hate it, flying is something that most of us will do at some point in our lives. When you take to the skies, a lot happens inside the aircraft that affects your ears.

Pressure inside the cabin changes with the plane’s altitude. The most notable differences are during take-off and landing. When the plane departs, the pressure on the outside of your body drops, which means the pressure in your ears will be higher. 

To release this pressure, air will pass through your ear’s Eustachian tubes. This results in the common ear popping many people report on aircrafts.

The pressure increases inside the plane’s cabin during landing. Air would have to be moved into the Eustachian tubes to restore balance, but this is harder to achieve because air would have to enter your ear rather than leave it. As a result, you might notice your ears feel clogged until you land and are on solid ground again. 

The Risks

Flying with an ear infection can lead to intense pain and a ruptured eardrum. This is due to increased pressure from inflammation and fluid build-up within the middle ear. You might also have reduced hearing during the flight as your eardrum may be pushed inward by the pressure. 

Flying with a clogged ear is uncomfortable, but it can also become painful for someone with an infection. 

In the worst case, you could experience hearing damage from a rupture due to intense pressure exerted on the eardrum.

How to Prevent Problems When Flying With an Ear Infection

The best way to avoid any risks is to avoid flying until your symptoms resolve. With the right ear care, you can get personalized treatment that helps clear up your infection fast. 

Most ear infections take between three to five days to heal, but some may last longer. After a course of antibiotics, you should be symptom-free within 10 to 14 days. 

If you have to fly, one thing you can do is try sucking on a candy, holding your nose, and swallowing. Do not try to pop your ears yourself as this can cause severe pain and increase your risk of a ruptured eardrum.

Contact OAT Today!

At our Nashville ENT and allergy clinic, we help patients make the best choices for their health. If you’re experiencing any signs of an ear infection, reach out to us today! You can schedule an appointment online by completing this online form.

When Is Throat Surgery Needed?

If you are like most people, you may take breathing and swallowing food for granted until you start experiencing an array of throat disorders. Anxiety is common when a medical professional confirms that you need throat surgery.

All the same, you will be obliged to accept surgery if it will aid in eliminating the symptoms that you experience. Patients are put through throat surgery because of compromised breathing, chronic sore throats, and injuries associated with the throat.

Keep reading to discover some of the most common reasons why throat surgery may be needed.

Tonsillectomy 

This type of throat surgery is performed on patients who suffer from frequent breathing difficulties, strep throat, and tonsillitis. These conditions mainly affect children rather than adults. 

The sole purpose of the tonsils is to aid the immune system while fighting infections. A proficient surgeon may find it necessary to remove the tonsils in a tonsillectomy process should throat conditions become the norm.

Tonsillectomy can treat other problems such as loud snoring, bleeding tonsils and breathing difficulties while sleeping.

Thyroidectomy

As you may know, the thyroid is a gland that produces hormones responsible for regulating digestion, mood, heart function, and metabolic rate. The thyroid gland is typically located near the bottom of the neck.

You will most likely undergo this surgery if you have been diagnosed with thyroid cancer or a goiter. Other conditions that warrant this type of surgery include breathing difficulties and problems swallowing due to thyroid nodules.

Parotidectomy

The parotid glands located below the ears are responsible for saliva production. Most parotid tumors are non-cancerous, but upon noticing them, it would be worthwhile to deal with them as soon as possible.

If you are experiencing tumors of the parotid gland, persistent neck swelling, hoarseness, or swallowing difficulties, it only makes sense to enlist the services of an ENT doctor. Upon conducting a comprehensive examination, they will determine whether parotid surgery is right for you.

To Remove the Uvula (Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty)

Commonly referred to as UPPP, this surgery is conducted at the back of the throat. The surgeon removes the throat's soft tissues alongside the uvula. If you are unaware of the uvula, that tissue hangs when you open your mouth.

In addition, this surgery combats situations that arise when one stops breathing, especially during the night for a few seconds (obstructive sleep apnea). A recent study by the National Library of Medicine suggests that if sleep apnea is not treated, it may lead to stroke or other fatal heart diseases.

Other reasons why a patient may need throat surgery

• In case of trauma or damage to one of the tissues, it needs to be repaired

• If there are signs of abnormalities in the soft palate or throat

• To remove tumors that may otherwise be blocking the airway

What activities should you undertake after throat surgery?

• It would be most beneficial if you avoided dusty or smoky environments. If you must work, ensure that you put on a mask

• Give yourself a grace period of 2 weeks before returning to work

• Avoid strenuous activities like exercise, running, and weight lifting until two weeks are over

• While keeping the throat moist and enhancing the healing process, drinking plenty of fluids regularly and running a cool-mist humidifier is imperative.

• Remember to sleep with your head elevated

Partner With a Specialist Who Is an Expert in Treating the Ear, Nose, and Throat

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above in your throat or neck, the wisest thing to do is consult a Nashville ENT and allergy clinic. Schedule a consultation with Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee (OAT) - a group of medical specialists committed to providing their patients with ear, nose, and throat care.

A team of experts is on standby to help you get compassionate and patient care tailored to your needs.

Why You Should Consider Allergy Testing

Allergies are your immune system’s reaction to something in your environment, such as pollen or pet dander. This overreaction can lead to symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. The best way to manage allergies is with allergy testing as a trained specialist will be able to pinpoint the exact cause of your allergy. Still wondering if it’s right for you? 

Here are just a few reasons why you should consider allergy testing: 

1. You Have Food Allergies

2. You’re Experiencing an Abnormal Skin Condition

3. You’re Allergic to Common Airborne Allergens 

Interested in allergy testing? Contact OAT today to learn more about our services and request an appointment. 

You Have Food Allergies 

If you've ever had an allergic reaction to food, you know it can be scary. The effects of a food allergy can range from minor itching and redness to life-threatening anaphylactic shock. Some people with food allergies experience skin symptoms such as hives or rash, itching, or swelling in the face. Respiratory symptoms include tightening of the airway, wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath. Your digestive system may also be affected, resulting in nausea or abdominal pain, and more. To test what you’re allergic to, your specialist will do a blood test to measure your immune system’s response to specific foods by measuring immunoglobulin E, the allergy-related antibody. 

You’re Experience an Abnormal Skin Condition

Contact dermatitis is one of the most common types of allergies, and it usually affects the skin. Common contact allergens include latex, poison ivy, fragrances, or metals such as nickel. If you have contact dermatitis, you may experience itching and a rash that becomes swollen and forms hives. Your skin may also develop blisters with a burning sensation. 

With skin testing, your provider uses a thin needle to prick the skin on your forearm or back with 10 to 50 different potential allergens. Or your provider may place droplets of potential allergens onto your skin and use a device to scratch and lightly puncture the area, causing the liquid to enter your skin. Reactions such as redness typically occur within 15 minutes of exposure. This test checks for airborne allergies, food allergies, and penicillin allergies.

You’re Allergic to Common Airborne Allergens 

Did you know that allergens in the air are barely visible to the naked eye? Dust, pollen, and pet dander are some of the most common air allergens that cause allergic rhinitis or hay fever. This type of allergy may have symptoms similar to a cold: headaches, itchy or watery eyes, nasal congestion and a runny nose. Wheezing or shortness of breath, cough, and sore throat are also among its symptoms. With allergy testing, a specialist will be able to accurately pinpoint exactly what you’re allergic to and find solutions. 

Schedule Your Allergy Test with OAT 

Middle Tennessee is home to hundreds of potential airborne allergens and seasonal allergies are increasingly common. Our team of highly specialized allergists can successfully identify and treat your seasonal and airborne allergies. Once we’ve identified the offending allergens, we’ll design a custom program of treatment that may include OTC medications and lifestyle adjustments, prescription medications, environmental controls, or immunotherapy allergy treatments.

Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment. 

Ways to Relieve Air Pressure on Your Next Flight

Do you feel discomfort or have your ears “pop” every time you fly somewhere? Ear pain during flight is pretty common, and can be caused by a few different things. First, air pressure is not able to equalize behind the eardrum, causing ear pain as the eardrum adjusts to the abnormal pressure changes. When the pressure equalizes behind the eardrum, we frequently say that the ears have popped. 

Normally when the plane is taking off and ascending, ear pain is not a problem because air can easily escape from behind the eardrum, through the eustachian tube, and into the throat. However, when the plane descends, air must be forced through the congested eustachian tube into the area behind the eardrum, which can be more difficult. Therefore, ear pain will almost always be experienced on descent if there is any problem at all.

Second, when your nose is congested (which often happens on long flights), it may be difficult for you to equalize pressure between your sinuses and your nose when descending in altitude—and this can lead to sinus pain as well!

 Luckily, there are a variety of ways to relieve air pressure on your next flight. That’s why we’ve put together this list that you can reference the next time you fly.

Some ways to relieve air pressure include: 

1. Use an Over-The-Counter Nasal Spray 

2. Stay Awake During Takeoffs and Landings 

3. Use Filtered Earplugs 

Looking for specialized ear care? Contact OAT today to learn more about our ear care services. 

Use an Over-The-Counter Nasal Spray 

If you're prone to nasal congestion, the best way to avoid it is by using a nasal spray.  It will help you clear your nasal passages and ensure proper sinus ventilation during and throughout your flight. The spray should be used about 30 minutes before takeoff and landing. However, as overuse of nasal sprays can cause congestion, so don't use them more than three days in a row. 

Stay Awake During Takeoffs and Landings 

If you can, don't sleep during takeoffs and landings. If you're awake during ascents and descents, you can do the necessary self-care techniques when you feel pressure in your ears. One of the best, and easiest, ways is by taking some deep breaths. Simply inhale deeply through your nose, hold for three seconds, then exhale through pursed lips or by blowing out as if trying to extinguish a candle flame. Repeat this sequence until you feel better.

Use Filtered Earplugs 

Another way to help you during your flight is by using filtered earplugs. They will equalize the pressure against your ear during accents and descents. Still be sure to yawn and swallow during your light to relieve pressure. 

When choosing ear plugs, consider the following:

• Size: Earplugs come in different sizes. Some people prefer smaller ones, while others prefer larger ones. You should try different sizes to see which you like best.

• NRR: Noise reduction rating (NRR) is a measure of how well an individual earplug blocks out sound. It ranges from 0 to 33 decibels with 0 being no protection and 33 being total protection from noise. An NRR of 30 or higher is recommended for most situations.

• Reusability: Some types of earplugs are reusable while others are disposable. Disposable earplugs should not be used more than one time as they may become dirty over time and lose their effectiveness at blocking out noise. Reusable earplugs can be cleaned regularly so they do not get dirty and continue working effectively even after repeated uses.

Let the Experts at OAT Help You 

If you’re suffering from hearing damage, hearing loss, or other hearing complications, the specialists at OAT are here to help you. 

Ready to get started? Contact us today to learn more about our services.

How to Keep Your Voice Healthy

Each of us has a unique voice. Whether you’re singing or talking, it’s important to keep your voice healthy. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, some signs that you may have a voice problem include raspiness, losing the ability to hit some high notes when singing, feeling that your voice sounds deeper, and having a raw or strained feeling. 

There’s a variety of things that can cause you to experience voice problems like an upper respiratory infection, vocal misuse and overuse, or growths on your vocal folds. 

Are you experiencing voice problems? 

Here are some ways you can keep your voice healthy: 

1. Hydrate Your Voice 

2. Avoid Harmful Substances 

3. Maintain Good Speaking & Singing Posture 

4. Watch Your Diet 

5. Give it a Rest 

Need professional help? Contact OAT today to learn more about our services. 

Hydrate Your Voice 

Keeping yourself hydrated is key to keeping your voice healthy. Most experts recommend drinking at least eight to ten eight-ounce glasses of water daily to ensure this. However, you’ll want to make sure you’re drinking more water if you’re dealing with conditions that may dehydrate you such as being in a very dry climate or taking medications like antihistamines or decongestants. If you’re looking to soothe your voice, you can also try things like tea with honey or ginger. 

Avoid Harmful Substances 

As you may know, you should avoid harmful substances like smoking cigarettes or vaping in order to protect your voice as it can irritate your vocal folds and cause cancer. You should also avoid things like spicy foods as they can cause stomach acid to move into your throat or esophagus and cause heartburn. If you have persistent heartburn or other issues, talk to your doctor about diet changes or medications that can help reduce flare-ups. 

Maintain Good Speaking & Singing Posture 

To maintain proper posture, you should stand up and place your feet so they’re evenly spaced on the ground in line with your shoulders. This allows you to stand straight up without hunching over or leaning back too far. When singing, Your hands should be relaxed and held still at your side. Keep them slightly away from your body to allow air to flow around you.You can also lean the weight of your body slightly forward, standing with your feet shoulder-length apart. You can put one foot just a tiny bit in front of the other for balance.

Watch Your Diet 

Just like keeping your voice hydrated with water is important, you’ll need to make sure you’re watching what you eat. Things like warm herbal tea, melons, and unsalted crackers are good for your voice while you should avoid things like milk, bacon, and citrus. To promote good muscle tone and endurance, you should be eating a balance of protein, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and moderate amounts of healthy fats and oils.                       

Give it a Rest 

As you may suspect, there is a clear link between your voice’s health and sleep. While you sleep, your cells regenerate and your body is able to build up your immune system. Without enough sleep, your body’s natural circadian rhythm is disrupted and increases the chances of you getting sick. Lack of sleep can also lead to things like your voice sounding rough and the inability to reach certain notes while singing. 

Let the Experts at Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee 

It’s easy to take your voice, breathing, and your ability to swallow for granted. Should you ever experience difficulties, however, our team of specialists can diagnose and treat a wide array of throat and voice disorders. Our doctors are highly skilled in treating speech impediments, voice disorders, and even cancers of the throat and neck.Whether you’re singing in the shower or on a Nashville stage, our physicians can help you achieve the sound and vocal quality you’re seeking. Treatment options may range from behavioral changes to in-office procedures to surgery.

Ready for your voice to be heard? Contact OAT today to learn more about our throat and voice care services. 

How to Treat a Neck Injury

Depending on its severity, a neck injury can be debilitating and make it difficult to get through the day. Symptoms of a neck injury include general stiffness, decreased range of motion, headaches and dizziness, and numbness. If you’re dealing with a neck injury, there are a variety of ways you can help combat it on your own. 

Here are some ways you can treat your neck injury at home: 

1. Alternate Heat & Cold 

2. Consider How You Sleep 

3. Focus on Your Posture 

4. Use a Neck Brace or Collar 

5. Take Over-The-Counter Medication 

Need professional help? Contact the specialists at OAT today to learn more about how we can help you with your neck pain. 

Alternate Heat & Cold 

Heat and ice can both be used to alleviate neck pain and reduce swelling or inflammation. If you’re using ice instead of an ice pack, you should wrap it in a thin towel or cloth to keep it from injuring your skin. It should only be applied for 15 minutes at a time and used every three to four hours. For muscle pain, heat is a great way to help relax your neck by taking a hot shower or hot compress. 

Consider How You Sleep 

If the way you sleep is leading to an increase in neck pain, it could be coming from poor support, stress, or poor posture. As keeping your head aligned with your body is the best way to rest without further stress on your next, you should sleep with your head on the middle of your pillow. This can be done when sleeping on your side or on your back. 

To help you sleep better overall, you should consider replacing old mattresses or pillows and trying exercises that can reduce stress such as meditation or mindful breathing techniques. 

Focus on Your Posture 

Focusing on your posture will help reduce neck strain as you’ll be able to relieve muscles that have become tightened due to injury. Generally, if you’re having intense pain, it is typically localized in a spot such as the side of the neck or the base of the skull. Exercises you can try include:

• Neck rotation: To rotate your neck properly, start by slowly looking to the right and holding that position. Then, look straight ahead and resy. Be sure to repeat this at least 10 to 15 times, then perform the same actions on the left side.

• Shoulder Rolls: While standing or sitting, hold your arms at your sides with your elbows bent and try to squeeze your shoulders together. You’ll want to roll your shoulders back 10 to 15 times in a rowing motion  and be sure to keep your neck aligned properly during the process. 

• Chest Wall Stretches: Stand in a doorway and hold your arms out to your sides with your elbows bent and palms facing out. Place your elbows slightly below shoulder level against the door gram and lean your chest forward. Hold the stretch for about 20 to 30 second and repeat those actions 10 to 15 times. 

Use a Neck Brace or Collar 

While they’re not recommended for long term use as they can weaken the muscles in your neck, using a neck brace or collar temporarily can help reduce neck pain by adding support. It works by supporting the weight of your head while the soft tissues in your neck are able to heal. If you’re using one, you should consider the following guidelines to help keep yourself comfortable and safe:

• Check your skin for irritation anytime the brace or collar is removed.

• Keep your skin clean & dry and avoid things like powders and lotions as they can damage the pads.

• Clean the pads that touch your skin on a daily basis using mild soap. 

Take Over-The-Counter Medication 

If you’re dealing with excessive neck pain, pain relievers can help you. This includes ibuprofen like Advil or Motrin, naproxen sodium (Aleve), or acetaminophen like Tylenol. Be sure to only take the medications as directed as overuse can lead to serious side effects. If you continue to have severe pain, reach out to your health provider for prescription anti inflammatories or muscle relaxers. 

Let the Experts at OAT Help You 

At Otolaryngology Associates of Tennessee, Our world-class head and neck surgeons treat many types of throat and neck disorders as well as benign and malignant tumors and growths originating in the head, neck, mouth, lymph nodes, larynx, thyroid, salivary glands, and more. Whether you have a neck mass impairing your swallowing, a painful salivary stone, or a tumor, OAT stands ready to evaluate your neck symptoms, diagnose your condition, and design a treatment protocol that addresses your needs. We strive to develop the least invasive but most effective treatment possible.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to learn more about our services. 

Tips for Caring for Your Hearing Aid

Hearing aids are a powerful tool that helps people in both quiet and noisy situations. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 7.1% of the U.S. population aged 45 and older use a hearing aid, and hearing aid use has increased by 2.3% among those ages 45 to 64. If you use or are considering using a hearing aid, it’s important to know how to properly care for it so that it’s able to function effectively. 

But before we talk about care, let’s break down how your hearing aid works. Every hearing aid is made up of three basic parts: a microphone, amplifier, and speaker. Sound comes in through the microphone which is then converted into electrical signals as sound waves and sends them to the amplifiers. The amplifier increases the sound’s volume and sends them to your ear through the speaker. 

Here are some tips for caring for your hearing aid: 

1. Be Careful in Excess Heat

2. Monitor Moisture & Water 

3. Avoid Shock & Vibration 

4. Schedule Regular Cleanings

Need a new hearing aid? Contact OAT today to learn more about our hearing services. 

Be Careful in Excess Heat 

Just like a phone with a battery that overheats in the summer, heat can impact your hearing aid. If it’s left somewhere like in a hot car, the heat can shorten the battery life. Excessive heat can also cause the plastic components of your hearing aid to melt. If you’re worried about heat, you can keep it in a protective case when not in use to avoid any damage. When storing it, be sure to keep it in a cool, dry place. 

Monitor Moisture & Water 

Your hearing aid will also be affected by things like sweat, moisture, and water. For example, if you’re taking a hot shower, you’ll need to take off your hearing aid and store it in a separate room to keep moisture from getting into it. If it does come into contact with water, put it in a place where it can dry out at room temperature. Too much water can damage the internal components and cause them to stop working. 

Avoid Shock & Vibration 

Similarly to other electronics, hearing aids don’t respond well to shock or vibration. If you drop your hearing aid, it can cause its internal components to move around and become damaged. When not in use, make sure to put it in an area where it won’t be moved like in a case or in a cabinet. This prevents the risk of it being somewhere like on your nightstand where it can fall from a tall height. 

Schedule Regular Cleanings 

Regularly cleaning your hearing aid will ensure that it works properly and help you avoid potential damage. The most common tools for a hearing aid include a wax removal brush, dry cloth, wax pick, and vent cleaner. You’ll want to use the wax pick to clean any wax buildup but be sure to not use the wax pick around the microphone or receiver. This should be done once a week to avoid too much build-up. Then, you can run the vent cleaner through the opening to further remove any debris. Next, you’ll need to wipe it down with a soft cloth. 

If you’re having any problems cleaning your hearing aid or are scared of potentially damaging it, you can take it to a professional. They’ll also be able to make any repairs that you may have missed. 

Let the Experts at OAT Help You 

At OAT, our dedicated team of physicians are committed to meeting all your hearing needs, protection, prevention, and enhancement, through every stage of your life. Our graduate-level, licensed Audiologists work closely with our team of physicians and nurse practitioners to ensure you get the personalized care you deserve. As our patients continue to prefer a comprehensive approach to their hearing healthcare; and therefore, our office offers an affordable, bundled model to deliver hearing devices and audiological services to meet their everyday listening needs. 

Need help with your hearing aid or other hearing services? Contact OAT today and let our specialists help you.