ENT DOCTOR BLOG
Posts for: November, 2019
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.