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Tell Me More About How Propel Can Help My Chronic Sinusitis

Propel helps our patients who suffer from Chronic Sinusitis. Chronic Sinusitis is a common complaint affecting an estimated 30 million Americans annually. The condition involves inflammation of the sinuses

that block the nasal passages and cause chronic infections. Symptoms include nasal congestion, sinus pain, and pressure, loss of smell and taste, nasal discharge, headache, pain in the upper teeth, fatigue, and depression.

Unlike medications that may only provide temporary relief, Propel offers a unique solution. It’s not just about opening the natural sinus openings to improve drainage and increase airflow, but also about delivering mometasone furoate, a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation. This dual action can lead to the best surgical outcomes for you.

How does Propel work?

The Propel sinus implant is a steroid-eluting medical device designed to help keep the sinuses open while delivering mometasone furoate, a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation. The implant is self-expanding, bioabsorbable, and dissolves over 30-45 days. This medicine allows for steroid medication to go directly into the sinuses, versus having to take steroids orally. Open sinuses lead to improved oxygenation and improved overall health. The Propel implant resembles a spring inserted while you are seated in our exam chair with an appointment of no more than 45-60 minutes. Most of our patients drive home after their appointment, and our surgical team will discuss the best plan for you.

If you are seeking a solution to your Chronic Sinusitis, schedule an appointment with the team at ENTOne to evaluate whether Propel is the right choice. 

Tell Me More About How VivAer and RhinAer Can Improve Nasal Airflow

Chronic nasal obstruction can significantly impact one’s quality of life, from breathing difficulties to sleep disturbances. Thanks to advances in surgical technology, engineers and clinical researchers have developed minimally invasive procedures that can provide relief without traditional surgery. 

Two such innovations are the VivAer and RhinAer procedures. While they aim to improve nasal airflow, they target different underlying causes of nasal obstruction.

What is the VivAer Procedure?

The VivAer procedure is a minimally invasive treatment designed to help patients who suffer from Nasal Airway Obstruction (NAO). Causes of NAO include a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or nasal valve collapse. During this procedure, a small wand is inserted into the nostrils to deliver controlled, low-temperature radiofrequency energy to the nasal tissues. The VivAer procedure shrinks and stiffens tissues, opening up the nasal airway and improving airflow without altering the exterior appearance of the nose.

What is the RhinAer Procedure?

The  RhinAer procedure, on the other hand, targets chronic rhinitis, a condition characterized by an inflamed, runny nose. Like VivAer, RhinAer uses a wand-like device to apply low-temperature radiofrequency energy to the posterior nasal nerves responsible for generating rhinorrhea. This gentle treatment disrupts the nerve signals responsible for chronic rhinitis symptoms, including nasal congestion, runny nose, and postnasal drip.

Key Differences Between VivAer and RhinAer

While both procedures use radiofrequency energy, the main difference lies in their targeted conditions and treatment areas:

• VivAer focuses on structural issues within the nasal airway that lead to obstruction.
• RhinAer modifies nerve function to alleviate symptoms of chronic rhinitis.

Both procedures require local anesthesia and are performed in a short office visit. Patients can expect minimal downtime and a quick return to normal activities. Dr. Chain and Dr. Taylor will diagnose your condition accurately, discuss available options, and recommend the appropriate treatment for improving your nasal breathing.

Next Steps

The team at ENTOne is available to answer any questions about procedural solutions to Chronic Sinusitis and improving nasal airflow. Contact ENTOne to schedule an appointment. 

Disclaimer: This is general information and not a substitute for professional medical advice. All advice and suggestions offered via the website or newsletters should be discussed with a physician before implementation. Always consult a physician for specific guidance, especially if you have pre-existing conditions. SurgOne, PC, and ENTOne PC are not liable for any adverse reactions that may occur by implementing advice or suggestions that appear here.

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For most of us, sunlight is significant for our health. Here in Colorado, we enjoy around 250 days of sunshine each year. Due to the state’s elevation, the sunlight here tends to be more intense. Let’s explore how we can benefit from Colorado’s abundant sunshine.

Sunlight is vital in producing vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining a robust immune system. A healthy immune system is crucial for fighting illnesses and infections, ranging from mild ailments like the common cold to more serious conditions.

The immune system, ear, nose, and throat health are closely interconnected. The ENT system serves as the body’s first line of defense against infections, and the immune system plays a crucial role in fighting off disease-causing agents like viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites. 

How the Immune System Supports ENT Health

• Filtering and Trapping – The nasal passages filter dust, allergens, and pathogens, while mucus traps bacteria and viruses. 
• Tonsils and Adenoids – These lymph nodes in the throat identify and attack harmful invaders. 
• Antibodies and White Cells – The immune system produces antibodies and white cells to destroy trapped pathogens in the nose and throat. 
• Allergies – The immune system can overreact to allergens, causing inflammation and symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. 

How ENT Issues Can Impact the Immune System

• Chronic Infections – Frequent ENT infections can weaken the immune system. 
• Allergies – Allergic reactions can cause inflammation and disrupt the normal functioning of the ENT system, potentially making individuals more susceptible to infections. 
• Stress—If you suffer from chronic ENT issues such as nasal congestion or loss of hearing, your body goes into “stress mode,” activating the sympathetic nervous system and the HPA axis. This leads to the release of the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. If these hormones are present often, they become a consistent contributor to inflammation and immune system drama, leading to even more inflammation in a “fussy” ENT system. Inflammation in the ENT system leads to persistent problems like sinusitis and hearing loss. 

Enjoying Colorado’s abundant sunshine can significantly enhance our overall health, especially regarding the immune system’s connection to ear, nose, and throat wellness. Adopting healthy lifestyle practices, maintaining proper hygiene, and prioritizing habits that boost the immune system—such as getting adequate sunlight exposure—can strengthen your body’s defenses and lower the risk of developing infections in these areas. Remember, a proactive approach to immune health protects your well-being against infectious challenges.

Next Steps

The team at ENTOne is available to answer any questions you may have about the health of your ears, nose, and throat. Do you get annual exams to ensure this important system of the body is in tip-top shape? The ENT system is critical, highly interconnected, and essential in maintaining holistic health. 

Contact ENTOne to schedule an appointment. 

Disclaimer: This is general information and not a substitute for professional medical advice. All advice and suggestions offered via the website or newsletters should be discussed with a physician before implementation. Always consult a physician for specific guidance, especially if you have pre-existing conditions. SurgOne, PC, and ENTOne PC are not liable for any adverse reactions that may occur by implementing advice or suggestions that appear here.

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Tinnitus (pronounced tih-NITE-us or TIN-uh-tus) is the perception of sound from an internal source so other people cannot hear it.

Tinnitus, often a ringing sound, is estimated to affect 10 to 25% of adults and even some children to some degree. For some, tinnitus may improve or even disappear over time.

The causes of tinnitus are unclear, but most people also have some degree of hearing loss. Tinnitus is rarely associated with more serious medical problems. And it is usually not severe enough to interfere with daily life. Some people, however, find that it affects their mood and ability to sleep or concentrate. 

While there’s no cure for tinnitus, there are options to manage and reduce its symptoms. From sound therapy devices to behavioral therapies and medications, options are available to help you lead a more comfortable life. This knowledge can instill a sense of hope and reassurance.

What Are the Symptoms of Tinnitus?

The symptoms of tinnitus vary significantly from person to person. The sound heard may ring, buzz, roar, whistle, hum, click, hiss, or squeal. The sound may be soft or loud or low or high-pitched. It may come and go or be present all the time. Most Tinnitus cases are subjective, meaning the sound the individual hears is not heard by others. 

What Causes Tinnitus?

While the exact causes of tinnitus are still unclear, tinnitus has been linked to the following:

• Noise Exposure – Many people experience tinnitus after exposure to loud noises. Because of the loud noises they may have experienced, tinnitus is also the most common service-related disability among veterans.
• Hearing Loss -Tinnitus is associated with aging or exposure to loud noises. Some people with hearing loss do not experience any tinnitus at all.
• Medications—Tinnitus can be a side effect of certain medications, especially when taken at high doses. Medicines that trigger tinnitus as a side effect include non-steroidal or anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin), certain antibiotics, anti-cancer drugs, and antidepressants.
• Earwax or Ear Infection – Earwax or fluid from an ear infection can block the ear canal and trigger tinnitus.
• Head or Neck Injuries – A head or neck injury can cause tinnitus.

Treating Tinnitus

Treatment for tinnitus is individualized for each patient at ENT One. All of our new ear patients see one of our Otolaryngology providers as well as one of our Doctors of Audiology for their first appointment. Dr. Kristen, Dr. Maureen, and Dr. Liz are doctoral audiology professionals specializing in diagnosing and non-medical treatment of hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disorders. They enjoy collaborating with our otolaryngology partners to provide fantastic whole-person care.  

 Rest assured, with this level of care at ENT One, you will determine a care plan depending on whether an underlying health condition, hearing loss, environmental factors, or a mixture of all causes your tinnitus. Examples of whole-person health treatment at ENT One that may occur if you receive a tinnitus diagnosis may include but are not limited to:  

• Earwax removal – Our Otolaryngology Professionals, Laurie Burns, and Jordan Troka, are celebrated for their gentleness and exceptional care. Removing earwax blockage can decrease tinnitus symptoms.
• Treating a blood vessel condition—Underlying blood vessel conditions may require medication, surgery, or other treatment to address the problem.
• Hearing aids – If your tinnitus is caused by noise-induced or age-related hearing loss, hearing aids may help improve your symptoms.
• Changing your medication – If your medication appears to be causing tinnitus, your doctor may recommend stopping or reducing the drug or switching to a different medication.
• Behavioral Modifications – Discuss treatment options that may reduce symptoms and support your holistic care.

The Doctors of Audiology at ENTOne were voted Littleton’s best of the best for Audiogical Care and Hearing Aid Support, Purchase, and Consultation. Contact ENTOne to schedule an appointment with our excellent audiology specialists.

DISCLAIMER: Remember, this is general information and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It’s crucial to discuss any advice or suggestions with a physician before implementation. Always consult a physician for specific guidance, especially if you have pre-existing conditions. SurgOne, PC, and ENTOne PC are not liable for any adverse reactions that may occur by implementing advice or suggestions that appear here.

The post Understanding Tinnitus appeared first on ENTOne.

Resilient individuals, for instance, might experience the stress of a demanding job or the loss of a loved one. Still, they can adapt and maintain a positive outlook in the face of such changes and adversities.

Qualities of Resilience

• Healthy coping and problem-solving skills
• Adaptability, flexibility with change, ability to compromise
• Learning and accepting who you are, identity doesn’t depend on externals
• High self-esteem, self-respect
• Motivation/personal meaning
• Sense of values and purpose, that life is worth living
• Optimism
• Sense of hope – ability to believe there is a solution in adversity
• Sense of enjoyment of life
• Strong relationships and support from family and friends
• Good social skills
• Able to ask for help

To Build Resilience

• One of the most empowering ways to build resilience is by cultivating healthy physical habits. Nourishing your body with wholesome food, engaging in regular physical activity, and ensuring adequate sleep boost your physical health and fortify your mental resilience, empowering you to face life’s challenges head-on.
• Take time for yourself each day. Notice the good moments. Do something you enjoy.
• Look at problems from different angles. Think of challenging situations as growth opportunities. Learn from your mistakes. Try to see the positive side of things.
• Practice gratitude. Take time to note things to be thankful for each day.
• Explore your beliefs about the meaning and purpose of life. Consider how to guide your life according to the principles that matter to you.
• Remember, you’re not alone in your journey to build resilience. Social connections and community play a crucial role. Surround yourself with positive, healthy individuals who uplift and support you. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it. Together, we can overcome any challenge, and the support of others can make the journey to resilience a shared and uplifting experience.

Resilience and Your Health

Resilience has a strong positive relationship with health. It allows individuals to cope effectively with stressors and challenges, thereby protecting against adverse mental and physical health outcomes, including reduced risk of depression, anxiety, and chronic diseases. 

Studies have shown a link between resilience and improved physical health outcomes, including better immune function, lower blood pressure, and healthier lifestyle choices. 

Resilience also promotes overall well-being and the ability to bounce back from adversity; essentially, the more resilient someone is, the better equipped they are to manage life’s difficulties and maintain good health. 

The team at ENTOne is available to answer any questions you may have about your health and well-being. Contact ENTOne to schedule an appointment. 

Disclaimer: This is general information and not a substitute for professional medical advice. All advice and suggestions offered via the website or newsletters should be discussed with a physician before implementation. Always consult a physician for specific guidance, especially if you have pre-existing conditions. SurgOne, PC, and ENTOne PC are not liable for any adverse reactions that may occur by implementing advice or suggestions that appear here.

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Colder temperatures, however, spread viruses, worsen symptoms, and affect the immune system’s response. Sinus issues, colds, and the flu are more pervasive during winter and are caused by viral infections rather than colder temperatures. Understanding how cold weather exacerbates symptoms can help you stay healthy this winter. 

Cold Weather’s Impact on Common ENT Issues 

While cold weather doesn’t directly produce illness, it amplifies some symptoms, making it easier for viruses to spread. Here are a few examples of how colder temperatures impact the most common ENT-related health issues: 

• Colds and Sinus Infections: The common cold and sinus issues are caused by viral infections. During winter, we are more likely to stay indoors and close to others, which results in less ventilation and allows viruses to spread. Dry air reduces the mucus membrane’s ability to prevent viruses from penetrating nasal airways.
• Sore Throat and Runny Nose: These common symptoms can result from various issues, including viral infections or allergies. Dry air exposure at home or in the workplace can irritate a sore throat and/or runny nose. 
• Ear Infections: Ear infections commonly result from bacterial or viral infections in the middle ear. Because ears are more exposed to cold temperatures, they are particularly vulnerable to cold weather. Cold weather impacts blood circulation in the ears, 

Healthy Habits for Fall and Winter Months from ENTOne

• Dress appropriately for the weather to prevent getting too cold or too hot and protect your immune system. Layering allows you to adjust to temperature changes.
• The dry Colorado climate, combined with high elevation, can cause dehydration. Drinking lots of water will help maintain hydration and minimize the risk of altitude sickness. 
• Keep coats, hats, gloves, and water in the car to prepare for winter driving conditions. 
• Maintain indoor air quality during cold weather by changing furnace filters on schedule.
• Hand hygiene year-round is essential, as well as covering the mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing. 

Cold weather does not directly lead to infection. Still, it can worsen symptoms and spread infections more quickly, making us more vulnerable to experiencing these common ENT issues during winter. 

The team at ENTOne is available to answer any questions you may have about your ear, nose, and throat concerns in the winter months ahead.  

Disclaimer: This is general information and not a substitute for professional medical advice. All advice and suggestions offered via the website or newsletters should be discussed with a physician before implementation. Always consult a physician for specific guidance, especially if you have pre-existing conditions. SurgOne, PC, and ENTOne PC are not liable for any adverse reactions that may occur by implementing advice or suggestions that appear here.

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They were just voted Littleton’s best of the best for Audiological Care and Hearing Aid Support, Purchase and Consultation! Reach out if you are ready to have the best (we encourage you to know the difference between a Doctor of Audiology and a hearing aid specialist as a consumer of care!) and schedule your annual ear care and hearing test for you and your family members!

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