Find out the different ways to get your sleep apnea symptoms under control.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder that causes pauses in breathing while a person sleeps. This occurs when the tissues in the back of the throat collapse or relax, thus blocking the airways. This condition not only impacts the quality of sleep, but also causes low blood oxygen levels. Over time, untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems such as diabetes and heart attack. Consequently, it's important to recognize the warning signs of sleep apnea so that you can schedule an appointment with our Washington, DC, ENT specialist, Dr. William Bond, Jr.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

One of the telltale warning signs of sleep apnea is chronic, loud snoring. While not all chronic snorers have sleep apnea, the vast majority of those with sleep apnea do snore. Along with chronic snoring, you will also notice a feeling of intense and lingering exhaustion in the morning.

Furthermore, even if you do get a full night’s rest, you will often wake up groggy and sleepy which may affect your concentration/memory, lead to irritability, and might even cause you to fall asleep behind the wheel. It’s important that if you are experiencing any of these symptoms that you schedule a sleep study with your Washington, DC, ENT doctor as soon as possible.

How is sleep apnea treated?

Once you have received a diagnosis from our doctor, we will map out a treatment plan for you that will help you get your symptoms under control. The preferred method for treating sleep apnea is continuous positive airways pressure (CPAP) therapy, where a facemask is worn over the nose and/or mouth and pressurized air travels through it to keep airways open while you sleep. This device only needs to be used while you sleep.

Of course, your doctor will also discuss lifestyle changes that you can make to also alleviate symptoms. These lifestyle changes include,

• Losing excess weight
• Quitting smoking
• Avoiding alcohol and sedatives
• Change sleep positions
• Exercising regularly

Those with mild sleep apnea may benefit from wearing a custom oral appliance, which repositions the jaws to keep the airways open while sleeping. Those with milder cases may only need this device to manage their symptoms while those with more severe symptoms may find better relief through both oral appliance therapy and CPAP.

Concerned? Give us a call

If you or someone you love is living with sleep apnea in Washington, DC, call our office today at (202) 726-7770 to schedule a consultation with your ENT specialist, Dr. William Bond, Jr.

Just like breathing or blinking, swallowing is an involuntary habit that we don’t often think about; however, swallowing is an important part of everything from speaking and socializing to consuming delicious food. Unfortunately, there are disorders that can affect a person’s ability to swallow. A swallowing disorder can be uncomfortable and troublesome, and a visit to an otolaryngologist can give you the answers you’re looking for as to what’s going on.

Some people having pain when they swallow while others may have trouble swallowing certain foods or feel as if there is something stuck in their throat. As a result, they may have trouble getting the proper nutrients and calories they need. Swallowing disorders are more common as a person ages. Swallowing disorders usually fit into one of two categories: esophageal and oropharnygeal dysphagia.

Esophageal dysphagia

People who often feel like they have something in their throats are often dealing with esophageal dysphagia as a result of:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD)
• Esophageal spasms
• Achalasia (esophageal sphincter dysfunction)
• Scar tissue of the esophagus
• Tumors
• Certain medications that can cause dry mouth

Oropharnygeal dysphagia

There are certain conditions that can also affect how the muscles in the throat function, which makes it more difficult to swallow food properly. Common causes include neurological disorders, nerve damage (spinal cord or brain injuries) and cancers of the head, neck, and throat.

Along with trouble swallowing, those with swallowing disorders may also experience:

• Coughing after swallowing
• The sensation of food being stuck in the throat
• Choking
• Regurgitation
• Sore throat
• Hoarseness
• Chest discomfort

If you experience persistent issues swallowing or if you also experience vomiting, regurgitation, or unexpected weight loss along with swallowing difficulties then it’s time to see an otolaryngologist.

Diagnosing Swallowing Disorders

To determine the cause of a patient’s swallowing problems their ENT doctor will go through their medical history, ask questions about the symptoms they are experiencing and then perform a physical examination. Based on the patient’s answers, your doctor will then determine which testing is needed to make a diagnosis. Common diagnostic tests include:

• Endoscopy
• Esophageal muscle test (manometry)
• CT scan
• Dynamic swallowing study
• Barium esophagram
• 24-hour pH impedance (to evaluate acid reflux and regurgitation)

Treating Swallowing Disorders

As you can see from the list above, there are many conditions and causes that could result in swallowing disorders. Therefore, the treatment you receive will depend on the cause and severity of your symptoms. Your ENT specialist will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan to reduce symptoms. With chronic conditions, your doctor will find ways to help you manage the underlying condition to make swallowing easier.

Nosebleeds happen to most of us at some point during our lifetime. While it can be startling, nosebleeds are typically harmless and nothing to worry about. Of course, if you battle nosebleeds rather regularly you may be wondering what’s going on and whether you should turn to an otolaryngologist for an evaluation. Here’s what you should know about getting a nosebleed.

Common Causes of a Nosebleed

The blood vessels within our nose are very delicate, which means that they are prone to bursting and causing nosebleeds. Therefore, the two most common causes of nosebleeds are nose picking and dry air. Dry air can dry out the nasal passages, which leaves the area prone to infection and cracking.

Other causes include:

• Repeated nose blowing
• Allergies
• Broken nose
• Acute or chronic sinusitis (a sinus infection)
• Common cold
• Irritants
• Certain allergy medications (these medications can dry out the nose)
• Traumatic injury to the nose
• Deviated septum
• Bleeding disorders
• High altitude
• Excessive use of blood thinners or anti-inflammatory medications

There are two main types of nosebleeds: anterior and posterior. An anterior nosebleed is a bleed that originates in the septum of the nose (the wall that separates the two nasal passages). These nosebleeds are minor and can be treated with home care. If your child experiences nosebleeds an anterior nosebleed is usually the cause.

Posterior nosebleeds occur further back in the nose where the artery branches are located. This type of nosebleed is much heavier, occurs more often in adults and may require medical care. While rare, it is possible for a posterior nosebleed to be a sign of high blood pressure or a blood disorder (e.g. hemophilia).

When to See a Doctor

While most people will be able to treat a simple nosebleed on their own without having to seek medical care, it’s important to see a doctor right away if:

• Your nosebleed is affecting your ability to breath
• Bleeding lasts more than 20 minutes
• Your nosebleed is the result of a traumatic injury or accident
• There is a significant amount of blood

While it’s not considered an emergency situation, it is a good idea to talk with your ENT doctor if you or your child experiences nosebleeds often. During an evaluation an ear, nose and throat doctor can ask you questions about your symptoms, perform a quick examination of the nose and determine the underlying cause of your persistent nosebleeds.

If you are concerned about you or your child’s nosebleeds then it’s best to play it safe and to schedule an appointment with an otolaryngologist. Call our office today.

It's easy to overlook issues with your thyroid gland. After all, it's not unusual to feel tired if you have a busy, hectic life. When fatigue is coupled with sudden weight loss/gain, palpitations, gastrointestinal issues, or changes in your skin or nails, however, there is a good chance that a thyroid disorder may be to blame. Fortunately, your Washington, DC, ENT, Dr. William Bond, diagnoses thyroid disorders and offers treatments that will help you manage your condition. Read on to learn more!

Hyperthyroidism symptoms

Hyperthyroidism occurs due to an overproduction of hormones produced by your thyroid gland. This small, butterfly-shaped gland is located in the lower part of your neck above your collarbones.

If you have hyperthyroidism, the gland can become enlarged, although you may still experience symptoms even if the thyroid gland isn't enlarged. Overproduction of thyroid hormones can cause heart palpitations or irregular/rapid heartbeat. Your metabolism may also change, resulting in sudden, unexplained weight loss.

Other symptoms can include:

• Thin skin
• Hunger
• Insomnia
• Sweating
• Fatigue
• Bulging eyes
• Changes to your menstrual cycle
• Hot flashes
• Frequent bowel movements
• Anxiety
• Nervousness
• Hand tremor
• Sweating
• Brittle hair
• Bulging eyes

Hypothyroidism symptoms

Hypothyroidism occurs when thyroid hormone levels drop. Lower-than-normal hormone production can cause you to gain weight even though you haven't been eating any more than usual.

Many people who have hypothyroidism report that their joints hurt and their muscles ache and feel stiff and weak. Decreased hormone production can also cause sensitivity to cold temperatures and hoarseness. Furthermore, without sufficient thyroid hormones, your skin can become dry and itchy, and your nails may break easily.

Fatigue can be an issue, as can memory issues and depression. Other symptoms may include constipation, menstrual changes, enlarged thyroid, or a puffy face.

Thyroid disorder treatment options

Treatments vary depending on the type of thyroid disorder. If you have hypothyroidism, your Washington ENT may prescribe a synthetic thyroid hormone.

Hyperthyroidism can be treated with medication to suppress the effects of the excess hormones. Radioactive iodine treatment to destroy the thyroid gland or surgery to remove it may be recommended in some cases. If your gland is destroyed or removed, you'll need to take thyroid hormone medication daily.

Although thyroid disorders may make your life miserable initially, treatments can restore your normal hormonal balance and relieve your symptoms!

Concerned? Give us a call

Do you have any of the symptoms of a thyroid disorder? If so, call your Washington, DC, ENT, Dr. William Bond, at (202) 726-7770 to schedule an appointment.

Also known as canker sores and ulcers, mouth sores usually result from bite injuries or allergic reactions. They can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition. Unlike cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HS1 and HS2) and develop on the lips and the skin around the mouth, non-Herpes related mouth sores can form on the gums, tongue, lips, the lining of the cheeks and throat. Canker sores are not contagious, and usually clear up on their own. They tend to be painful and can be treated with topical over the counter analgesics, mouthwashes and rinses. If mouth sores do not resolve on their own and last longer than three weeks, it may be necessary to seek treatment from an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor.

Common Causes of Mouth Ulcers and Canker Sores

Accidental biting is the most common cause, along with friction from toothbrushing, orthodontics or dentures. Diet can also play a role, in the form of food allergies to anything from coffee, chocolate and highly acidic foods and citrus fruits. Deficiencies of essential vitamins and minerals like folic acid, B12, iron, folate and zinc can also cause mouth ulcers. Sodium lauryl sulfate in toothpaste and oral bacteria like Helicobacter pylori (which is also responsible for stomach ulcers) can cause lesions in the mouth as well.

Lifestyle factors like smoking and elevated stress levels are another cause. Ulcers that persist for more than a few weeks, do not respond to self-care and over the counter treatments and are accompanied by additional symptoms like fever, excessive pain, swelling and difficulty eating and drinking, can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

Schedule an appointment with an ENT (ear, nose and throat doctor) if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• swollen lymph nodes
• fever
• difficulty swallowing or speaking

Is an Underlying Medical Condition Causing My Mouth Sores?

Persistent and chronic mouth sores can sometimes be a symptom of immune deficiencies or inflammatory conditions like lupus, Celiac, Behcet's and Chron's Disease. Contact an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) for more information on treatment options and symptom relief.