Causes of Ear Infections

The commonest cause of ear pain is the infections, swelling and collection of fluid in the Eustachian tube which runs from the middle ear to the posterior part of the throat. The Eustachian tube gets blocked by:

• Allergies
• Hay fever
• Common cold
• Tobacco consumption
• Smoking
• Swollen and infected adenoids
• Throat infections
• Fluid in ear in case of swimmers (swimmers ear)

There are some other risk factors that lead to infant ear infection.

• Altitude changes
• Changes in the climate
• Cigarette smoke
• Pollution leading to constant cough
• A recent illness

Ear Infection Symptoms

The ear infection symptoms in infants will stay the same as that in adults, except the fact that kids don’t know how to express the distress like adults.

1. Mild to moderate pain and discomfort in the ear
2. Feeling of pressure or a blocked sensation in the ear.
3. Rubbing the ear and fussiness are the classical signs of ear infection in infant.
4. Pus like thick yellow discharge
5. Difficulty in hearing or deafness in chronic cases
6. Fever that goes till 102 degrees.
7. In chronic ear infections the symptoms tend to be come and go and usually affect both the ears.

Diagnosis of Ear Infections

The symptoms of ear pain and fever point towards an infection. The diagnosis is confirmed with the examination of the ear with an instrument called the otoscope which has a light and a magnifying glass and enables the doctor to see the middle ear nicely. Presence of a foreign body, fluid in the middle ear, redness, bulging or perforation of the ear drum are some of the common findings on examination of ear diseases.

Ear Infection Treatment

Most of the ear infections are mild and tend to clear up on their own. If the infection is sever and associated with fever, then medications like pain killer and antibiotic pills or antibiotic ear drops will be required. If the ear pain is due to an existing cold, then decongestants and anti allergic medicines will provide effective results as the swelling in the Eustachian tube will decrease. In bacterial infections with a pus like discharge, antibiotics will be required to control the infection and prevent it from spreading to the inner ear. If the infection is very severe, then the nerve gets involved and it can lead to hearing loss.

If medical treatment is not effective then surgery may be needed. Tubes may be placed in the ear to drain out the fluid collected. If adenoids are causing repeated infections, then surgical removal of the adenoids is indicated.

Ear Infections in Infants and Babies

The reason why ear infections are common in babies and toddlers is that their Eustachian tube is shorter and so the infection travels much faster. When you see a baby with ear infection, it could be because of bottle feeding. Bottle fed babies have a greater risk of developing an ear infection as compared to a breast fed baby. Another important reason of ear infections in babies that is often missed is the use of a pacifier. The pacifier acts as a source of infection if it is not properly sterilized and the infection travels from the mouth to the throat and the ear.

The best way out here is to take utmost care of the hygiene and avoid these infections. Wash your hand often. When using bottles for your baby, you must always sterilize them properly. Also sterilize the pacifier so that it does not become a source of infection for the child. Encourage breast feeding and give all the vaccinations on time.

Some other general methods of prevention are avoiding over crowded places and cigarette smoke. Even passive inhalation of the smoke is dangerous for you and your children. Be very cautious that your toddler does not put any object inside the ear as it can get stuck up and even rupture the ear drum.

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Saddle nose is a deformity in the nose where it is related to the abnormality in the height of the nose because a collapse in the nose’s bridge. There is a poor septal support related to trauma or aggressive rhinoplasty and even sniffing out cocaine. Saddle nose is also called as pug nose or boxer’s nose. Interestingly, having a saddle nose deformity can also be associated with various problems like polychondritis, abuse of cocaine, Wegener’s granulomatosis, Leprosy and congenital syphilis.

The patient has saddle nose when there is a fracture on the bone or septal cartilage which results to the septal hematoma. During hematoma, there is a blood collection and clot which prevents providing blood supply to the cartilage. When this happens, there is a hole created in the septal cartilage. The formation of hole then weakens the nasal septum and leads to the collapse of the nasal bridge.

Experts find it difficult to determine whether it is prevalent in men or women. However, they were able to assess that this condition happens to people who are prone to having a trauma on the face. This includes the athletes, boxers and even criminals. Cocaine addicts also have high tendency of having saddle nose deformity along with those who underwent a surgery of the nose.

Causes of Saddle Nose Deformity

There are different causes why saddle nose can happen. This can be related to:

1. Rhinoplasty that is overaggressive. Having a nose lift or rhinoplasty can result to the loss of support in the nose bridge.

2. Coccaine addiction. Cocaine is a prohibited drug where the powder is sniffed by the nose. Coccaine itself can cause vasoconstriction which will lessen the space for blood supple into the nasal septum. This will then limit the blood supply into the nasal area and cause the septum to collapse.

3. Late congenital syphilis. Congenital syphilis as the term describes happens during pregnancy. This happens when the mother has syphilis during her pregnancy and then the child is born with a condition called secondary syphilis. There are 2 classifications of congenital syphilis. In the early stage the problem seems asymptomatic. This problem is only diagnosed when doing a prenatal screening but this happens rarely.

During the late stage, the different signs and symptoms start to show which includes having a saddle nose. Along with it are other manifestations like deafness, having swollen knees, a defect on the hard palate, an upper incisor which is blunted and other manifestations.

4. Wegener’s granulomatosis. This is also called as GPA or granulomatosis with polyangitis which is a condition that is an incurable vasculitis. Vasculitis means there is an inflammation on the blood vessels thus the diameter of the blood vessels become smaller. This problem affects different parts of the body like the lungs, kidneys, nose and other organs. Because the problem is incurable, this is a potentially life-threatening disease thus patients need to be taking immunosuppressions. In most cases, the survival rate of patients with this condition can reach up to 5 years. This is because of the toxicity of the treatment that can result to death.

The manifestations for GPA or granulomatosis with polyangitis include saddle nose because the septum is perforated, nosebleed, rhinitis, hearing loss, chronic renal failure and rapid glumerulonephritis, strawberry gingivitis, scleritis, conjunctivitis, pulmonary nodules and many more.

Complications Of Having a Saddle Nose

The nose is important because it is the organ for smelling and breathing. The oxygen comes through the nose and passes through the airways and eventually into the trachea and to the lungs. There is an exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide and you exhale through your nose and release carbon dioxide from the body. The human nose also comprise of cartilages and bones to for the nasal structure to be formed. The osseocartilaginous is the framework that supports the nasal bones. It is connected with the lower and upper nasal cartilages, premaxilla and the septum.

If there is a saddle nose deformity, the problem is not directly life threatening but it will result to discomfort and development of airway obstruction in the long run. Experts call a middle vault collapse or a collapse in the nasal bridge can also cause airway obstruction. Additionally, the patient’s self-esteem will also be affected that’s why they want to have an aesthetic improvement on their nose as part of the treatment.

Saddle Nose Deformity Treatment

To confirm that the patient has a saddle nose, imaging studies are needed. Then the depth of the problem will determine the treatment options such as surgery.

Medical approach

The option for a medical treatment is raised and applied only when the goal of the treatment is to stop or prevent the disease progression like in cases of Wegener granulomatosis. Consulting to a rheumatologist is essential because they know the treatment process and how to avoid further damage to the nasal cartilage.

Surgery

This is the best option to correct the saddle nose. Nasal reconstruction involves using of implants to raise the nasal bridge. There are different options for the implant to be used in repairing the nose which includes:

• Homografts that uses accelular dermis
• Autografts which makes use of the rib or the patient’s finger or the cartilage of the auricle
• Metals are also used like alloys, titanium, silver and gold
• Bioimplatns like coral or ivory
• Silicone, polyamide mesh and other synthetic compounds

The selection of the implants should is critical because it should stay in the body for a long time thus biocompatibility is important along with the availability of the material, the morbidity on the graft’s harvest area, and other. The following criteria should include:

• It should be noncarinogenic
• It should not be absorbable
• It should have extrusion rate of zero or very low
• Cost effective
• Should feel like a cartilage
• The material should be easy to work with
• There should be no inflammatory reaction once the implants are inserted in the nasal area

If the implant passes all these criteria then it will last about 10 years in the body. A careful evaluation and reassessment should be done after the operation to ensure that the implant is in place and at the same time avoid infection.

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Cricopharyngeal spasm is usually defined by patients as a lump in the throat which is said to be the primary source of discomfort. Technically, the condition is identified as synonymous to functional dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing), spasmodic stenosis or hysterical dysphagia. This medical condition primarily affects the cricopharyngeus muscle, the upper esophageal sphincter and an essential part of the digestive system. Once this condition is experienced by clients, concluding it as a tumor or a cancerous lump is a common mistake. This should not be confused with cancerous lumps, as malignant tumors are frequently undiscoverable unless it has developed into a very large, visible lump.

During cricopharyngeal spasm, patients experience discomfort from the accumulation of food and fluid in the sphincter during or after the act of ingestion. Physiologically, the sphincter is responsible for food and water intake by relaxing and opening for esophageal passage. The mentioned buildup is frequently found at the back of the throat, that’s why most patients complain of the “lump feeling” in the throat. This should not be a cause of an alarm as this is rather harmless, unless it becomes a source of extreme discomfort.

How does one develop cricopharyngeal spasm?

Anatomically, the muscle involved in cricpopharyngeal spasm is found in the esophagus. As mentioned, this contracts when unused but then relaxes as one swallows food to give way for food digestion. As the ingestion process is done, the sphincter closes to avoid food or fluid regurgitation from the stomach. Instead of the normal contraction and relaxation of the cricopharyngeus muscle, a spasm occurs triggering the symptoms. Stress and anxiety are the two primary factors that cause this condition.

What are the manifestations of cricopharyngeal spasm?

This condition is considered a syndrome, which means a number of accompanying symptoms are complained by patients. This syndrome is considered self-limiting while others experience the condition in a chronic state. The following are the presenting symptoms of cricopharyngeal spasm:

• Lump feeling at the back of the throat. Sometimes, patients complain of the feeling of being strangled. Some believe there is swelling in the throat. Feelings of tightness on the throat is also another complain by sufferers.
• Pain is tolerable but significant discomfort from the lump sensation is a common manifestation. The discomfort may come and go but can also progress unfavorably as the day goes on. There are instances where the sensation is worse in the morning that may gradually increase in intensity.
• Difficulty in swallowing. The affected shall feel uncomfortable when one swallows food. In separate cases, others may be even unable to swallow his or her saliva.
• Feelings of distress. This can be considered as the cause or the precipitating factor for cricopharyngeal spasm. However, patients suffering from this condition are somehow observed to be suffering from stress.

What should one do when cricopharyngeal spasm is being experienced?

First thing to consider is one’s emotions during an episode of cricopharyngeal spasm. The patient should be accompanied, in a calm state and should not be panicking. The lump feeling behind the throat should be further investigated by checking oneself for food choking or the like. As most patients are unsure of the cause and answer behind the discomfort, seeking medical assistance should be done. But one should always remember that stressing out on the discomfort can only aggravate the spasm.

In order to attain a proper diagnosis, a physical examination is done to check for any visible structure that may be causing for the lump sensation. However, there are instances where a doctor would like to make sure that a tumor is not causing the discomfort. Esophageal endoscopy has been done and as well as imaging examinations (CT scan, MRI scan and X-ray). Other doctors would only consider it as a waste of time and money for such procedures, but are somehow still practiced for precaution.

The doctor shall recommend a muscle relaxant after being examined. This can help relieve the pain and decrease any amount of anxiety if there is any. Valium or Ativan is the usually prescribed medication for cricopharyngeal spasm.

For home management, placing of a heated pad (for a few minutes) on the throat can help reduce the discomfort and can induce muscle relaxation. This should be inquired first from the physician, as considerations should be reviewed. It is advised for patients to drink warm fluids to relieve discomfort. The doctor would most likely recommend for stress relief activities that can help reduce the presenting symptoms. Considering meditation can assist in attaining relief from cricopharyngeal spasm. Trying to live in a stress-free life and environment can avoid future episodes of cricopharyngeal spasm.

If the symptoms persist and if the problem has been a chronic one, the doctor may recommend injection of Botox. But this is only necessary when a dysfunction is identified. The effect of Botox is to reduce the over- contraction of muscles. In severe cases, a surgical intervention may be performed to correct the muscle dysfunction. This is to help in the reconstruction of the affected muscles that cause the problem.

Is there a recommended diet for cricopharyngeal spasm?

This medical condition should be treated accordingly to relieve the discomfort. However, there is no specific diet plan required to avoid the spasm. It is only suggested that one should avoid ingesting food or drink when it is observed to be a difficult task. One should not aggravate the situation by forcing food and should consider a doctor’s advice when it persists.

In order to have no future episode of cricopharyngeal spasm, patients must not rush a meal and should chew food properly and thoroughly before swallowing. Seeking medical advice is still a must to make sure and identify that there’s no underlying condition causing such manifestations. Remember that one can get better from cricopharyngeal spasm as soon as attention and management is done. A number of patients would attain full recovery after several weeks while others would need months in order to get better.

Treating this type of disease cannot be done alone. Though there are many self help book that can be a source, always trust the advice of a doctor.

References

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

http://www.voicedoctor.net/therapy/lump

http://voices.yahoo.com/cricopharyngeal-spasms-feel-like-lump-sensation-5143501.html

http://www.livestrong.com/article/322239-diet-for-cricopharyngeal-spasms/

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Globus sensation is identified by patients as a persistent feeling of “lump in the throat”, when in fact, no lump exists. The patient complains of persistent feeling of stuck up phlegm or some sort of obstructive material lodged in the throat.

Previously, this condition was named as globus hystericus, as the symptom suggests being psychiatric in nature. This time, this condition is identified medically as globus pharyngis.

Unlike any other “lump in the throat” feeling conditions, globus sensation does not present difficulty in swallowing food or drink. It is only known significantly for its discomforting effect to the patient.

Globus sensation is a common phenomenon. According to epidemiological reports, this condition emerges frequently in the general population. From time to time or at least once in a person’s life, globus sensation is experienced.

Based on a study made on globus sensation, about a good 45% of  147 healthy people have had experienced this sensation. Stress and episodes of anxiety are linked to such occurrence. It is also  said to be common  among women.[2 ]

A common misconception is that globus sensation is cancer related.  Globus is rarely a symptom of throat cancer. [5]

In order to make sure that an underlying disease is not causing such sensation, one may consult the doctor for testing:

• X-ray. This is necessary to rule out the possibility of mediastinal tumors.
• Endoscopy. This is done with the use of endoscope which is inserted orally to view the throat for problems. This can rule out possible conditions such as reflux esophagitis and other conditions related to the throat.
• Videofluoroscopy of the esophageal region in vertical, supine and prone positions to assess abnormal esophageal clearance.[4]
• Esophogeal Manometry this measures the pressure in your esophagus and at the connection between your esophagus and your stomach. (esophogeal sphincter pressure)[7]

Globus Sensation Symptoms

Globus sensation has a number of symptoms and these are the following:

1. Persistent feeling of painless lump stuck in the throat.
2. Feeling of constriction and tightness in the throat.
3. Most occurrences are between meals.
4. Dysphagia is not usually felt. Patient seems capable to eat and drink food despite the discomfort.
5. Some complain that the “lump” is mobile (movable).
6. Others experience hoarseness of voice and easy tiring as the sensation progresses.

Globus Sensation Causes

To date, no definite cause for globus sensation has been identified. However, various factors have been presented that seem to trigger  this condition. The sensation is often associated to an ongoing inflammation of the throat. A lesion in the mucosal lining can cause globus sensation. This can be in a form of ulcer or from a trauma or injury. The lesion does not directly cause it but somehow induces an uneasy feeling in the throat. Most surgeons of the throat (ENT) would present these as triggering factors:

• Stress. It has been noted that many of the affected are stressed out or are anxious when globus sensation emerges. This can be supported as there would be an increase in muscle tension when one is distressed or anxious.
• Lack of rest. This factor is believed influential as this can promote stress, ergo increasing muscle tension.
• Voice straining. Overworking and overuse of the vocal cords can trigger globus sensation.
• Smoking. As mentioned earlier, non-smokers are not spared with globus sensation. Nonetheless, smokers are greatly affected compared to non-smokers. Though many non-smokers experience globus sensation, those who smoke would experience much worse feeling compared to those who doesn’t smoke.
• Postnasal drip. This condition is described as the increased production of mucus due to an upper respiratory tract infection. A runny nose is a manifestation when it is in excess  and may lead to globus sensation.
• Reflux. At one time Globus sensation was believed to be triggered by a reflux of gastric content. As food content comes back up (which is acidic), the throat muscles become irritated thus causing muscle tension. Some recent studies do not confirm this as a likely cause. [6] Other recent studies on small numbers of patients affirm the direct connection of reflux as a cause of Globus.[8]
• UES, upper esophageal sphincter pressure, appears to be one of the causes of Globus sensation, even in the absence of gastric acids. [6]

Globus Sensation Treatment

Before initiating treatment, addressing the cause of globus sensation is to be prioritized. As other conditions are ruled out, prompt management is provided.  Treatment and management for globus pharyngis is designed to provide relief to the patient. The following are the considered interventions for globus sensation:

• Relief from stress should be attained. It is essential that the person affected should address the stressor. Avoiding the stressors is one way of addressing them. Psychotherapy may also be necessary when it has come to a point where stress has become a great factor in causing the problem. There are instances where the client may be suffering from somatisation (a chronic psychological condition that involves consistent complaining of physical symptoms that have no physical cause). It is also suggested among patients to have sufficient rest in a day. Providing relaxation techniques can be helpful.
• Voice straining can be avoided when one does not overwork oneself. Provide time and rest for every task. However, there are instances where one cannot avoid voice straining.
  Even though non-smokers are still affected, it does not mean one should continue that bad habit. Remember, smoking can aggravate globus sensation. Smoking cessation is advised to those who practice in order to prevent a much worse globus sensation.
• When one is suffering from an upper respiratory tract infection, taking interventions for cure should be done. Since postnasal drip can trigger globus sensation, treating it can eradicate or soothe globus sensation. Antibacterial drugs may be prescribed to patients, if necessary.
• One can obtain relief from the constricting feeling by drinking warm fluids. This can help relax tensed muscles of the throat and reduce mucus which may have been building up in the throat.
• If gastric reflux is suspected to cause the condition, anti-reflux agents are prescribed. Antacid agents are prescribed in order relieve the discomfort from acid reflux.

Never underestimate possible complications if you do self treatment. Make sure you consult a doctor if any of the symptoms are present.

Recommended Diet for Globus Sensation

The recommended diet for globus sensation is particularly intended for prevention. To reduce the likelihood of gastric reflux involvement, a change in the diet is recommended. Minimize the intake of spicy, greasy or fatty foods. In addition, a patient should avoid lying down after a meal. Do not eat a meal less than an hour before sleep/bed time as this can facilitate food regurgitation. Consume adequate amounts of liquid to maintain a healthy level of hydration.

References

1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Globus_pharyngis
2. http://www.uptodate.com/contents/globus-sensation
3. http://www.fauquierent.net/globus.htm
4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19449225
5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23497351
6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19882344
7. http://www.wakehealth.edu/Health-Central/Swallowing-Expert-Says-Globus-Should-Be-Treated/
8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12393039

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Blockage of the nasal cavity is the universal problem. People from all over the world suffer from the blockage of nose in minimum twice a year. Blocked nose or nasal stuffiness is one of the oldest problems that human beings are confronted with. Reaction of people against it has always been different as for some people it is only a nuisance and for others it has always been a source of discomfort.

Any how whatever the reaction of the people may be towards it, it is undeniable that this blockage of nose has always been very disturbing as it creates difficulty in breathing. Nose is a very vital organ for breathing and most of the breathing is being processed through it so the blockage of nose means interruption in breathing. For those people who breathe through mouth this nasal stuffiness values nothing.

What causes Blocked nose

Mostly it is observed that people suffer from blockage of nose in winter season but this is a mere observation. There are certain reasons that cause blocked nose and they are

• Infection
• Structural abnormality
• Allergy
• Sinus Infection
• Pregnancy

Infection

The foremost important reason of blocked nose is infection by virus. This infection is known as “common cold” normally every human being suffer from this cold thrice a year. These viruses very easily transmitted in human beings sometimes through air and mostly by contacting with the sufferer.

These viruses compel body to secrete certain chemical like histamine that increases the blood flow of the nose and causes the nasal tissue’s swelling resulting into the formation of excessive amount of mucus which blocks the nasal air way resulting into blockage of nose.

Structural abnormalities

Structural abnormality is very rare case of blocked nose. In such cases the divider membrane and bone of the nose may get injury and creates obstruction in the air path. There are few reasons of this abnormality.

• Through any kind of accident
• Nasal tumors
• Deviated septum

Allergy

Allergy is a condition that makes a person become ill or develop skin or breathing problems because they have eaten certain foods or been near certain substances.

In the blockage of nose allergy plays a very vital role. In Those people who are allergic with anything, it may be mold, pollen, dust or animal hair the production of histamine is higher than others which cause the increase in congestion and mucus.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy many women suffer from blocked nose because of the high rate of blood transmission in the body.

Blocked nose associated symptoms

• stuffy nose
• headache
• fatigue
• mild fever
• pain in upper jaw

How to clear a blocked nose

• Usage of Vicks on your nostrils
• If you are facing this problem try to breath slowly.
• Try to keep your chest and nose warm. It will help you in clearing the nose.
• Nasal saline spray
• Use steam and take long breaths into it.
• Never allow mucus to gather in your nose. Whenever required blow your nose gently.

Blocked nose remedies

As far as the blockage of nose with cold is concerned there is no remedy for it. Body takes its time against viral infection anyhow anti biotic may give you comfort in releasing pain and discomforts.
For those patients who are allergic certain anti allergic medicines are available that must be taken after the prescription of the doctor.
For those patients who suffer from structural abnormality surgery is recommended.

There are certain house hold tips for its remedy and they are;

• Use salt water
• Apply Vicks on your nostrils
• Drink as much water as you can to keep your nasal membrane well hydrated
• Do more exercise it will help in changing your body temperature resulting into the opening of your nose.
• In case of allergy try to avoid that thing which causes it.
• Eucalyptus essential oil is very useful and handy. Try to smell it
• Do not lay straight on bed rather than take a side. If you turn towards left it will clear your right nostril and when you turn towards right it will clear your left nostril.
• Try to breathe through your mouth
• Use steam of hot water after mixing some tea, eucalyptus or menthol.
• Drink hot water or tea with lemon. Try to take sip very slowly by keeping your nose as close to it as you can.
• Take a warm shower
• Try to keep your chest and nose warm.

References

http://www.entnet.org/HealthInformation/stuffyNose.cfm

http://www.wikihow.com/Clear-a-Stuffy-Nose

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What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a disease that is marked by the perception of sound without the presence of an actual source of sound. In other words, this condition causes sufferers to hear noises even in the absence of a sound source.

Tinnitus ear disease is a rare condition that is becoming very common these days thanks to the overuse of earphones.

What Causes Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is usually caused by exposure to loud sounds. Unusually high sounds for even the slightest duration may affect the ear canal and result in a number of ailments like ear infection, drainage from ear and wax build up in aural drums. Tinnitus is one of these diseases.

Natural loss of hearing capabilities due to ageing and congenital hearing defects are also causative factors of this disease. Tinnitus can also arise as a side effect of using certain medications.

Tinnitus Symptoms

The typical symptoms of Tinnitus are the perceptions of ringing, whistling, clicking, whining and buzzing sounds in the ear despite the lack of ay external stimuli that can be held responsible for producing these noises.

People with Tinnitus also suffer from a brief amount of hearing loss. They are unable to hear many actual external sounds clearly.

Persistent Tinnitus can also give rise to mental problems in patients. Individuals with the condition may suffer from fatigue, clinical depression and irritability. Many people also have musical delusions, which indicate that they have a perception of hearing musical sounds even in the absence of such sources.

Tinnitus Treatment

The treatment of Tinnitus involves detecting the underlying condition. If the causative factor is found to be loud noise, treatment may involve use of sound-masking equipments and hearing aids. These are some effective cures for Tinnitus caused by loud noise.

Tinnitus remedy also includes use of Tinnitus medications. Administering Lidocaine injection into the ear has been found to temporarily reduce Tinnitus symptoms. Using Tricyclics like Amitriptyline and Nortriptyline in small doses has been found to produce similar effects.

Use of medicines like Acamprosate, Sertraline and Acamprosate has also proved quite effective in curing the symptoms resulting from Tinnitus hearing loss.

Objective Tinnitus can be treated with the aid of Botulinum Toxin and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery. In case of earwax plug, clearing the ear canal can be highly useful to stop Tinnitus ringing.

In people with Tinnitus vitamin or zinc deficiency has been often pinpointed as causes. This type of mineral deficiency can be cured with the help of Vitamin and Zinc supplements.

Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medicines are very useful in patients who develop Tinnitus due to mental illnesses.

Tinnitus Natural Cures

Want to know how to cure Tinnitus naturally? Some of the popular Natural Tinnitus Cures involve

Avoiding caffeine

Increased intake of caffeine is believed to be a reason for Tinnitus development. Sufferers are often advised to avoid caffeine for faster recovery.

Avoiding smoking

Over intake of nicotine is also associated with Tinnitus symptoms. Cutting down smoking has been found to be quite effective in curing Tinnitus symptoms.

Limiting salt intake

Over consumption of salt is also attributed to this disorder. It is best to limit your salt intake to a minimum for early recovery from this syndrome.

Herbal Remedies for Tinnitus

Is there a cure for Tinnitus the herbal way? Good news is, there are certain effective natural remedies for Tinnitus. Any of the following methods can be used to treat Tinnitus.

Pineapple intake

Eating fresh pineapple every alternate day can reduce inflammation in the ears and cure Tinnitus after a point of time.

Magnesium consumption

In case of loud-noise induced hearing loss Tinnitus patients should consume 500-1,000 mg magnesium every day. This has been proved quite effective in reversing hearing loss due to loud sounds such as listening to music for long hours in high volume.

Ginkgo biloba application

Direct application of Ginkgo biloba, the maidenhair tree extract, has been seen to expand blood vessels thus increasing the flow of blood and restoring audibility. It is one of the most trusted Tinnitus remedies.

Pulsatile Tinnitus

Pulsatile Tinnitus is one of the more severe kinds of Tinnitus. This medical syndrome is marked by a rhythmical noise that beats with the pulse rate of a person. It is a rare form of Tinnitus that arises in people suffering from problems like vein abnormality, hypertension, Eustachian Tube disorder and abnormal artery.

Pulsatile Tinnitus is said to result from an increase in blood flow in areas like the base of the skull, veins and large arteries in the neck and smaller blood capillaries in the ear.

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy is a popular medical therapy aimed at people who suffer from ringing sensation in the ears. Noise generators are used in this Tinnitus therapy to make a background noise. Prolonged exposure to this sound helps cure the condition. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) is a new treatment for Tinnitus. In this therapy Tinnitus patients often make a slow progress.

Tinnitus Test

Tinnitus diagnosis involves playing sounds of particular amplitude before a person suffering from Tinnitus. Sample sounds are played at under-5 decibels and over 70 decibels to gauge the extent of Tinnitus in sufferers.

Tinnitus Association

The American Tinnitus Association (ATA) is the biggest non-profit organization in America that is working to treat Tinnitus. Founded in 1971, it is headquartered in Portland, Oregon and serves and operates in the United States.

If anyone in your family is having Tinnitus or you are suffering from the condition yourself, it is advisable that you go for an early treatment. Delay in treating the condition can give rise to complications like chronic Tinnitus and make the disease a permanent problem. So it is best that you go for an early treatment to get Tinnitus relief and faster recovery from the condition.

References:

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tinnitus.html

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

http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/sym/tinnitus.htm

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-tinnitus.htm

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The nasal septum is the bone and cartilage that divides the nasal cavities into two separate chambers.  It is normally located at the midline, which makes the nostrils symmetrical. Deviated nasal septum is the improper alignment or displacement of the septum either to the left or right.  Slight deviation does not cause any problems and does not necessitate treatment. There is an estimate that 80% of the population have a deviated nasal septum. Most of them are going on with their lives without experiencing any inconveniences. It is only when there is too much deviation that certain health risks are involved. [1]

Deviated Nasal Septum Symptoms

A severe deviated nasal septum can obstruct one section of the nose and lessens the flow of air into that cavity. This would result to the most common symptoms of a deviated septum:

• shortness of breath,
• frequent nosebleeds,
• nasal congestion,
• headaches,
• facial pain,
• recurring postnasal drip and
• recurrent sinus infections that would lead to sinusitis.[4]
• Young children and infants with severe septum deviation may have noisy breathing while asleep.

Individuals with mild deviation would manifests symptoms of a deviated septum only when they are experiencing upper respiratory tract infections (common cold). The infection would cause inflammation of the nasal passages and briefly amplify minor airflow obstructions.

Deviated nasal septum snoring

Snoring is one of the most frequent consequences of a deviated septum. This is true because the obstruction of the nasal airflow causes individuals to breath through the mouth. When asleep, the body muscles relax, including the tongue, soft palate, uvula and the throat.  During respiration, the air movement causes these parts to vibrate resulting in loud noises or snoring.

Deviated nasal septum sleep apnea

Snoring, when is untreated and ignored for long, it can lead to one of the more serious symptoms of a deviated septum – sleep apnea. [5] This is a chronic condition where an individual recurrently stops breathing for at least ten seconds during sleep. When this problem occurs thirty times or more in a 7-hour sleep period, it is considered as obstructive sleep apnea. Such frequent pauses can lead to mild to severe hypoxemia and lead to ischemic heart disease or other cardiovascular and cerebrovascular problems that may be fatal.

Deviated Nasal Septum Causes

A deviated septum can develop because of congenital malformation or a traumatic birth.  Most often it is due to postnatal trauma such as a direct blunt blow to the nose. That results in a fracture in thin bones in the nose.   Anything that can cause trauma to the nose can lead to septal deviation. This happens most often during  automobile accidents, rough play or playing any contact sports, or even shoveling snow with equipment that is too large for the child.

A deviated septum may also be connected to Marfan syndrome [6] and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome [7]. Both of these are congenital connective tissue tissue disorders.

Deviated Nasal Septum Pictures

Picture 1 : Deviated nasal septum

Picture 2 : : Image of Bony nasal septum deviation

Picture 3 : Deviated nasal septum midline

Picture 4 : Deviated Nasal Septum Diagnosis

Deviated Nasal Septum Treatment

There are no known medications that can correct a deviated septum. Repair is based upon surgically correcting it. Medical treatment is provided for managing symptoms of nasal congestion or post nasal drips.
The physicians would generally prescribe decongestants, antihistamines and nasal sprays to relieve these symptoms. In extreme pain caused by the inflammation of the sinuses, mild pain relievers may be given.
To prevent future complications and relieve the patient from recurring symptoms, permanent deviated septum repair is considered. That means surgery.

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Many are affected with respiratory problems. They either have bronchitis, asthma, the common colds, flu and even sinusitis. Sinusitis is one of the most common nasal problems. It affects the paranasal sinuses making it sensitive to anything a person can smell. it can be treated in many ways and sinus infection home remedy is being practiced by many people since it is effective.

Sinusitis is classified into 2 types. Acute sinusitis can happen due to an upper respiratory tract infection due to virus or fungi which lasts for a short period of time. The second type is the chronic sinusitis which lasts for 3 months and longer and it is caused by many problems. The signs and symptoms are more complicated and can even lead to ansomia or reduced sense of smell.

The locations of sinusitis are divided into 4 parts wherein sinusitis can be located. The frontal sinusitis causes pain in the frontal sinus which is below the eyes. The second is the maxillary sinusitis which is painful at the maxillary or cheek area and causes toothache. Ethmoid sinusitis causes pain behind the eyes and headaches occur. Lastly, the sphenoid sinusitis causes pressure at the back of the eyes or on the vertex or top of the head.

Sinusitis signs and symptoms include a constant yet dull pain in both acute and chronic stages of sinusitis. The pain is localize but it radiates when a person lies down. There are also green mucus discharges and sometimes may include pus and even blood. Toothache can also happen along with halitosis, facial fullness or tightness and eventually ansomia for those suffering from chronic sinusitis.

There are various ways of treating sinusitis. It can be dealt with taking antibiotics. For moderate sinusitis, a lower-grade antibiotic like amoxicillin can do. but if the problem is not solved after 7 days of taking the antibiotics, a much stronger drug like Augmentin. If the patient is allergic to penicillins, drugs like Flouroquinolones can be taken. when taking antibiotics, it is important to make sure that the patient eats full meal because the common side effect includes gastrointestinal upset. Steroids- corticosteroids are better options when treating sinusitis. It can be taken alone or with antibiotics.

At some point, nasal wash can be done as a sinus infection home remedy. Before doing it at home, the physician will teach the patient on how to do it in order to avoid problems. Nasal wash is essential to remove the mucus from the nose due to sinusitis. This natural remedy is saline solution made with a combination of sea salt, warm or salt water, and pinch of baking soda. Options to buy the solution in the drug store are also present. Saline sprays have hydrogen peroxide which aides in cleaning he nose. This should be done several times a day and a good alternative for taking in antibiotics or steroids. What a patient must do is to lean forward with head down and then pour the solution into the palm. The patient must then inhale on it one nostril at a time and blowing the nose afterwards. Another tip especially for children would be using apple cider vinegar for sinus infections. The procedure can be done like nasal washing. Any vinegar would do but preferably, apple cider is the most recommended.

Another sinus infection home remedy would include drinking water for hydration. It helps in opening the sinuses making it easier to breathe and avoid head pressure. Water also lubricates the mucus membranes. Aside from taking lots of water, it is quite advisable to have chicken soup. It helps in headaches and some congestion. The ingredients have some anti-inflammatory effects and help soothe senses.

Using a steam or Inhaling in a steam is helpful as a sinus infection home remedy. By doing this,  and in the patient will sit on a bowl of boiling water and inhale the heat. To have a better effect, the patient will be covered with cloth to retain the smoke and should be done in 10 minutes. If it can’t be done, applying moist heat in the face by the use of hot and damp towel for 5 to 10 minutes can be used as an alternative.

To avoid complications and aggravating the problem, it is best to stay indoors. Going out of the houses means exposure to air pollution, dust and smoke that will irritate the sinuses and cause sinusitis. Cigarette smoking or being beside a person who smokes triggers sinusitis attack. At home, it is best to avoid cleaning dusty area because it can trigger an attack.

When thinking of sinus infection home remedies, it also includes ingredients and spices to relieve sinus attacks. One is the use of mangoes. Mangoes, which contain Vitamin A, are known to help form the epithelium which prevents sinusitis.  Spices like garlic and onion can be used too. the Fenugreek seeds are useful. Teas can be prepared with the Fenugreek seeds. When taking it, perspiration happens and moistens the mucus membrane. Then, it will eventually improve the smelling and lessen the sinus problems. Making juices like carrot juice or a combination of cucumber, spinach or beet juice is good for treating sinusitis as well as taking Vitamin A and E.

If the sinus infection or problem is worst and it is recurring, sinus infection home remedies can’t be done alone. Surgery is the possible solution as suggested by the otolaryngologist. The FESS or functional endoscopic sinus surgery removed the pathological and sometimes the normal anatomy that hinders and is directly connected with sinus infection or sinusitis. This surgery is one of the most popular treatment for sinus problems in replacement with the open technique wherein there are facial incisions done. Instead, the surgeons are focused on promoting drainage by the use of gravity. Post-operative complications and problems are minimized with FESS.

References

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinusitis#By_duration

http://www.umm.edu/patiented/articles/how_acute_sinusitis_treated_000062_8.htm

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Did you pierce your ears?  People have been doing cartilage (ear) piercings for ages.  Today more body parts are pierced too. But the focus here is on the piercing of the outer ear which is made of cartilage.  It is also about the types of cartilage piercing, how to pierce your cartilage, infections, the risks and the healing process.

Ear and cartilage piercings are popular among young people all around the world. Both guys and girls  from about age 10 to about 30 seek this stylish statement.  Right now the males are catching up with the females.  Both genders need to be really particular to achieve their ideal overall look.

It is no longer enough to just have one cartilage pierce per ear anymore. Now young men and women wish to display multiple piercings and adornments to reach their own distinctive look.

From a medical point of view, the piercing of the upper portions of the ear is called cartilage piercing.  If you pierce the ear lobe, it is simply called “ear piercing”. Looking at the illustration you can see the helix, daith, tragus, antitragus, conch or shell and rook and snug are all parts of the ear that can be pierced besides the ear lobe. Not only that, but the side and middle parts of the nostrils can also be pierced.

Cartilage Piercing Picture 1 :

Cartilage piercing is complicated compared to simple ear lobe piercing. There are also greater risks for infection with cartilage piercing. If the piercing is not done properly, there can be scars or bumps. Also, if an infection happens it is more challenging to treat because the blood supply to your cartilage is minimal. Generally it takes 6 times longer to heal this kind of infection than any other body piercing. Some severe cases of infection require antibiotic medications. That is why it is so important to seek a genuine and experienced person if you choose to have any cartilage piercing.

You will find a wide range of materials to adorn your new piercing. The most common metals to be used as cartilage piercing earrings are gold, silver, platinum and even stainless steel.  Apart from this precious, semi-precious stones, crystal, diamonds studs are equally popular as earrings. The trend is now for beads and plastic accessories. They may be studs, hoops, rings, pins, cuffs or dangling items. The size of the earring is determined by the ability of the ear lobe to hold it for long.

How to pierce your cartilage?

Innumerable methods are present for getting a piercing done, from “Help yourself” to specialized equipment like piercing guns or medically sterile needles. The most traditional cartilage piercing procedure is with a sewing needle as the piercing object and a thread to draw through the hole.

However, this is not a safe means because of  a lack of sterilization. Also, a piercing gun increases the risks of infection. They are often used on several customers and can easily contaminate you. It is advisable to go where you will have fully sterilized piercing needles in use.

The basic steps to do a piercing are :

• Upon starting the process, wash hands thoroughly with a good anti-bacterial cleanser.
• The piercing area should be wet with water.
• Apply a smooth lather of a few drops of anti-bacterial cleanser on the piercing area with the help of a cotton swab.
• Make sure that the area to be pierced is free of any acne, and any brittle discharge. If needed, clean it with a cotton swab.
• After piercing the cartilage, keep the cleanser on it for at least 2 minutes before inserting jewelry. Then you should rotate the jewelry back and forth gently in the piercing.
• This will help the lather penetrate into the piercing in the cartilage.
• Finally wash the piercing with lots of water and leave it to dry on own.
• Do not use a towel for drying.
• A gold or silver accessory is recommended to complete the piercing to minimize the risk of infection.

Cartilage Piercing Infection

For the most part, it is poor and unhygienic ways of piercing that cause swelling and infection of the ears or the nose. That is also what causes pain in the affected areas. In extreme situations you may find a significant cartilage piercing infection that becomes abscessed and contains pus. That is why it is totally essential to get the proper cartilage piercing information. Your knowledge and understanding of the process can help you avoid pain and suffering.  Signs of infection are simple: severe pain, redness, swelling, or even bleeding. [4]

Scientifically, cartilage piercing infection is generally caused by the pathogen named Staphylococcus aureus . However, it may also be caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa . If this is left untreated it can cause a permanent ear deformation, a condition also known as auricular chronditis.

There are other factors related to cartilage piercing infection:

• Swimming in stagnant or contaminated waters of lakes, ponds usually causes infections by the pathogen named Pseudomonas.
• Disinfectants contaminated with these species of bacteria or even the benzalkonium chloride used as antiseptic in hospitals are also sources of infection.
• The improper use of piercing guns, needle, jewelery or other methods of piercing using metals may also cause infections.
• Improper techniques of incision, splinting and drainage are the primary causes of cartilage infection and swelling.
• Frequently touching your piercing with unclean hands can cause infection.

Cartilage Piercing Healing

As mentioned earlier since the cartilage lack the normal supply of blood, it takes longer time to recuperate on piercings unlike other body parts. Aftercare is very important in preventing an infection and for cartilage piercing to heal.

• Healing time ranges from 3-12 months but is more dependent on the magnitude of piercing.
• The area may irritate a bit but avoid touching it with unclean hands. After touching it also make sure to wash hands with antiseptic soaps consisting of chloroxylenol.
• Tea bags as warm bandages can be used to sooth the area.
• Never use hydrogen peroxide, alcohol pads and Betadiene to clean the piercing.
• Diluted tea tree oil can be used by dabbing with cotton for persistent sores.
• For bumps, mix lemon juice with crushed aspirin tablet powder and apply 2-3 times a day. This will facilitate the healing process via opening up of the blood vessels.
• Zinc and vitamin C are beneficial too in the healing process.
• If you want to change the jewelry wait until the piercing has recuperated completely.

The cartilage piercing healing stages are divided in two distinctive phases, the initial and the full healing phases. The Initial phase is when the skin tube or fistula is developed.  In the latter phase, the fistula gets fully developed and strengthens. The initial healing stage is critical and needs care to prevent scarring. After the completion of the second phase the piercing is completely healed.

There is a discharge of lymphatic fluid from the piercing and it serves as an antiseptic for grit and germs. This is not to be taken as pus. Upon formation of a yellowish crust it can be suggested that the piercing has begun to heal.

Cartilage Piercing Infections

A bad cartilage piercing or lack of proper aftercare will definitely lead to infected cartilage piercing. Excruciating pain along with bleeding is common in case of an infection. Redness, bumps, swelling, discharge of pus are also present. The most prominent causes of these infections can be:

• use of unsterilized needles
• frequent touching of the area without clean hands,
• wearing jewelry too tight to limit the flow of blood to the areas pierced rendering them susceptible to a contagion.

Cartilage Piercing Picture 2:

Make sure that the initial piercing is of 14K gold or silver and is lose enough for blood circulation. Cleaning your jewelry in solution of alcohol three times in the first month after the piercing also keep infections at bay. Also use of anti-scarring creams can help you combat minor infections.

Cartilage Piercing Risks

The risks involved may range from minor to major and it depends on how careful you are. In addition to simple infections these conditions may develop:

• Allergic reactions,
• perichondritis,
• traumatization,
• keloids,
• scarring,
• bumps.

Allergies may be developed due to nickel in the accessory used. To prevent this always wear high quality jewelry.

Tearing is possible if one wears dangling earrings during the process of healing, so avoid it. Piercing the cartilage itself inflicts trauma to the area. Therefore it is sensitive and healing will be delayed if you wear dangling earrings at this time.

Cartilage piercing is observed all over the world. By being cautious you can prevent a painful experience. If you are afraid of  piercing. Try using other ear accessories ear screws, spring hoops, magnetic earrings, stick-on earrings or clip-on.

It is not necessary to follow people blindly.  Be sure you are are comfortable with jewelry on your ears.  You can easily start off with a helix piercing. Give yourself adequate time for your first piercing to heal fully before you proceed to additional piercings. That cautious step can prevent a painful disaster for you.

References:

1. http://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/61100/jewelry/ear_piercing.html
2. http://www.essortment.com/lifestyle/earpiercingaft_ttgl.htm
3. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earring
4. http://www.primehealthchannel.com/cartilage-piercing-information-types-infection-and-healing.html
5. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001253.htm

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