Head, Neck and Throat Conditions
Tonsilitis
Tonsilitis is the inflammation of the tonsils, the two oval-shaped pads of tissue at the back of the throat often caused by either bacteria or virus. Common symptoms are pain while swallowing, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, fever and chills. Viral infection can last for a few days and discomfort can be eased by having plenty of rest and drinking lots of water. Bacterial infection can be treated with doctor prescribed antibiotics. Other good home remedies to get pain relief are gargling with salt water and having a boost of vitamin C with calamansi or lemon juice.
Adenoiditis and Adenoid Hypertrophy
Adenoiditis is the inflammation of the adenoids which are masses of lymphatic tissue found in the throat, just behind the nose. Common symptoms are nasal congestion, sore throat, swollen glands in the neck and ear pain. The other conditions is Adenoid Hypertrophy or the enlargement of adenoids which is common among children. If the adenoid continues to enlarge, it can block the passage behind the nose that can result in snoring , hyponasal sound to the speech (like talking with pinched nose), and Otitis Media (middle ear infection). Severe cases may be evaluated for adenoidectomy or removal of the adenoids.
Goiter
Goiter is the enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck. Common symptoms are swelling in the front neck below the Adam’s apple, hoarseness of voice, thightness in the throat area. The lump will move up and down when you swallow. If the goiter becomes large and cause some discomfort, the doctor can request some tests or scans to find out the cause and recommend an appropriate treatment such as medication, iodine treatment and surgery.
Other head, neck and throat conditions
Laryngopharyngeal reflux (acid reflux), vocal cord paralysis and hoarseness, tumors of the larynx/voice box, head and neck tumors.