The most common throat disorders we diagnose and treat include snoring and sleep apnea, tonsillitis, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing. Nearly half of adults snore, and over 25 percent are habitual snorers. Approximately 10 percent of children also snore regularly. Snoring can indicate a more serious medical condition known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). If left untreated, OSA can lead to high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease.
To determine the likely site of airway obstruction causing snoring, we conduct a thorough examination, which may include using a fiberoptic scope inserted through the nose and into the throat. OSA is most frequently treated with a CPAP machine, which uses positive pressure to keep the airway open. However, some patients find CPAP intolerable and seek alternative options. These alternatives include oral appliances prescribed by dentists, surgery on the tonsils, uvula, and nose, as well as a hypoglossal nerve stimulator that automatically projects the tongue forward during sleep.
Hoarseness, also known as dysphonia, is typically caused by issues with the vocal cords (or vocal folds) that produce sound. Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, can be a symptom of various conditions, including acid reflux, throat infections, and neurological weakness. Both hoarseness and difficulty swallowing usually require a fiberoptic examination, which can be performed in the office quickly and with minimal discomfort. Treatment is tailored to each patient’s specific diagnosis.
