Feel better fast: Five natural remedies for sore throat

A sore throat indicates pain, itchiness, or irritation of the throat. Often caused by the inflammation of the pharynx, common symptoms include a dry throat, swollen neck glands, hoarseness, and white patches on the tonsils.

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There are several ways to reduce the pain of a sore throat. The following are five natural remedies that can be taken at home:

Honey. To speed up the healing of your throat, mix honey in tea or other hot beverages. An effective wound healer, honey has long been used for treating respiratory infections, coughs, and other illnesses.

Salt water. Gargle with warm salt water. Salt will help pull the mucus out of your swollen, inflamed tissue, relieving the discomfort caused by sore throat.

Peppermint. Studies show that peppermint contains anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties that help faster healing. You may mix peppermint to warm beverages to ease the pain.

Slippery Elm. Like salt, slippery elm has a mucus-like substance that coats and soothes the throat. Mix hot water with powdered bark of elm and drink it.

Licorice root. This plant is known as an effective gargle solution for sore throat. It can soothe your throat from pain and coughing.

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Remember, these are just remedies for simple cases of sore throat. If your sore throat persists for more than a week and is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or rash, it is advisable to visit your doctor.

This Dr. Robert R. Beltran blog shares more articles on management and treatment of diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, and throat.

How asthmatic people can maintain healthy sex lives

Asthma should not prevent people from having sex. Unfortunately for many couples, asthma has been a factor for a poor sex life and the severity of the condition has caused some couples to seek marriage counselling. Two-thirds of 350 people surveyed in 2011 had said that breathing conditions hampered their sex life. The results of the study were presented at the 96th International Conference of the American Thoracic Society, with the authors concluding that the relationship between asthma and sexual activity should be further studied and documented. It was suggested that as with certain types of exercise, sexual activity can trigger an asthma attack.

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Health professionals have come up with some solutions that could reduce the risk of an attack and improve a person’s sex life.

Experiment with positions: There could be positions that place more pressure on the chest area. These can cause shortness of breath or even invite more allergens to be inhaled (depending on where the bed is located as well). People with asthma should consider experimenting with positions that allow them to remain upright during sex. Not only will this reduce the risk of an attack, it can also improve a couple’s sex life.

Medicine first: Sex should be considered a strenuous physical activity and should follow the same procedures one would do before engaging in a sport. If the individual takes medications (like a bronchodilator), he or she should medicate before having sex. This, of course, should be approved by a medical professional beforehand.

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Full disclosure between the patient and his or her doctor is important. The medical professional can design a more effective plan for treating the condition so that the individual can lead a productive life.

Dr. Robert R. Beltran is an expert in otolaryngological conditions, having treated patients for years. Learn more about this field of medicine by liking this Facebook page.

A primer on tonsillar cellulitis

The study of otolaryngology involves understanding diseases and conditions related to the ear, nose, and throat. The more common conditions associated with this field are asthma and rhinitis. However, there are other illnesses that need to be recognized – particularly because of its severity and slow but steady growth among the population. One of these conditions is peritonsillar cellulitis. As mentioned earlier, this disease has slowly been spreading and due to it being relatively unknown, many people do not get the correct treatment.

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Peritonsillar cellulitis (or tonsillar cellulitis) is an infection affecting one of the two tonsils. This results in severe sore throat. While it can develop at any age, it typically affects individuals who frequently have sore throat and who take antibiotics. This is not an ordinary sore throat and needs to be treated immediately. Failure to do so may lead to severe pain when swallowing, voice changes, and even trouble opening one’s mouth due to the significant amount of swelling and pus that can develop. If the amount of pus (abscess) is too overwhelming, it may need to get drained before any antibiotic is prescribed. It must also be noted that individuals who have repeated cases of this condition may need to have to undergo surgery to remove their tonsils.

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Otolaryngologists recommend that individuals gargle regularly and drink plenty of water (enough to keep the urine pale yellow or clear) to minimize the risk of contracting this illness. Smoking must also be avoided as smoke inflames the tonsillar region. Individuals should seek professional assistance if their throat begins to swell or if they are having difficulty swallowing.  

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Robert R. Beltran, M.D., of Irvine, California, is the go-to otolaryngologist in the area. For related news and updates, like this Facebook page.

Discussing pregnancy rhinitis

Pregnancy is one of the most body-changing experiences a woman can undergo. Not only does the development of life change hormone levels, eating habits, and mental states, it also brings about a whole plethora of physical changes and specific conditions. One of these is pregnancy rhinitis.

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Pregnancy rhinitis is characterized by a stuffy nose and a generally uncomfortable nasal condition (constant sneezing, coughing, itchy nose, etc). It typically occurs during the first trimester of the pregnancy but has been known to affect women anytime during the entire term. Otolaryngologists suppose that the increased levels of estrogen and blood during the pregnancy enlarge the mucus membranes of the nasal passage, which causes the feelings of stuffiness.

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Pregnancy rhinitis should clear up within two weeks of giving birth. Treatments are rarely given to women while pregnant to protect the fetus. However, some women do suffer from severe episodes of rhinitis. For these cases, only three treatments are considered. These are: decongestants, antihistamines, or saline drops – the latter considered the safest and most recommended course. The first two options have been suggested to potentially have harmful effects against fetuses. While recent studies have refuted these claims, it is still best to discuss treatment options with one’s OB/GYN and Otolaryngologist.

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This type of rhinitis is similar to seasonal allergy in that it can be managed effectively through thorough research and proper activities such as drinking more fluids and sleeping with the head slightly elevated. A humidifier may also considered to control moisture levels.

Dr. Robert R. Beltran is a recognized otolaryngologist in Irvine, California. Learn more about his practice areas by following this Twitter account.

Differentiating cough-variant asthma from the standard condition

Asthma is a multileveled condition with many different varieties. One of the lesser known ones is the cough-variant type that is mainly characterized by a dry, non-productive cough (no mucous is expelled from the respiratory tract).

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Those with cough-variant asthma differ from patients with the standard condition in that they may or may not have the other classical symptoms such as wheezing or shortness of breath. This form of asthma may also be diagnosed as a chronic cough if it has lasted longer than six to eight weeks. The cough may occur at any time of the day and may be exacerbated by exercise (known as exercise-induced asthma) and exposure to allergy triggers such as dust or smoke.

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While cough-variant asthma may occur in anyone, children with childhood asthma are most at risk. There is also a danger that cough-variant asthma may eventually lead to classic asthma and its associative symptoms. Otolaryngologists warn that coughing may also follow an upper respiratory tract infection such as sinusitis. There has also been research that suggests that coughs following beta-blocking medications may be of the cough-variant asthma type. Beta-blockers are medications used to treat heart conditions, migraines, and glaucoma, among others.

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Those who believe they may have cough-variant asthma should immediately visit their nearest otolaryngologist. The condition may be difficult to diagnose (often being labelled as bronchitis or postnasal drip cough), but a proper inspection of the individual’s family history, current medication list (if any) and a simple asthma test should immediately provide the correct diagnosis.  

Seek proper medical advice from trusted otolaryngologist, Dr. Robert R. Beltran. Learn more by following this Twitter account.

When to visit an otolaryngologist

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Otolaryngologists are physicians who specialize in diseases and conditions concerning the ears, nose, and throat. They are more commonly known as ENT physicians and are trained in the medical and surgical management of illnesses in the head and neck. This specialization is considered the oldest by the medical community in the United States. Many visit their ENT doctor several times a year to treat a variety of conditions, such as the ones listed below:

Ear: Hearing impairment, ear infections, tinnitus, pain, congenital ear disorders

Nose: Problems affecting smell, breathing, and physical appearance (rhinoplasty may be considered)

Throat: Conditions that affect speech, singing, eating, swallowing, and digestion

Others: Diseases, tumors, trauma, and deformities of the head, neck, and face

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Many otolaryngologists are also trained to perform cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in these areas. ENT specialists also help manage and treat nerve problems in the head and neck that could affect sight, hearing, and facial movements.

Most of the human body’s functions depend on the ability to hear, smell, or taste. These senses are interdependent of each other, with co-morbidity between conditions being extremely high. Treatment plans typically involve addressing several symptoms at once. Patients are recommended to visit their local otolaryngologist once they begin to experience difficulty, or are suffering from any degree of pain in any of these areas. Pain is a great indicator of a problem and is often considered the first sign of an illness.

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Dr. Robert R. Beltran is a reputable and experienced otolaryngologist. Find out more about this field of medicine by visiting this Google+ page.

Asthma and rhinoplasty: What you should know

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Rhinoplasty is a procedure that involves the reconstruction of nasal bones, often changing the shape and angle of the nose. While there are some cosmetic benefits to rhinoplasty, most patients undergo the surgery to correct impaired breathing caused by birth defects or injury. The entire process, including recovery, takes around 10 to 14 days, with the end result being a more proportionate face and better breathing.

Rhinoplasty is often considered as the final option for breathing conditions or disorders as this is a major and traumatic event for the body. It should only be considered if no other treatment option provides relief to the symptoms.

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This treatment option is sometimes considered for people suffering from asthma, only this is generally not recommended. Many otolaryngologists suggest other methods of managing asthma as the condition will not be treated properly with a rhinoplastic plan. The surgery only addresses mechanical obstruction through the nasal passages. These may or may not improve the asthmatic condition.

Asthma is a respiratory condition, with the cause normally found within the lungs. Difficulty in breathing occurs due to an allergic reaction or some sort of hypersensitivity (such as stress). Rhinoplasty may improve the condition partially with a bigger nasal passage, but again, this would only address a small part of the condition and would otherwise prove ineffective as a total treatment plan.

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Learn more about rhinoplasty and other news on otolaryngology by visiting Dr. Robert R. Beltran, M.D.’s LinkedIn page.

Breathe deep: How to avoid pollen

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Nasal allergies that are seasonal, meaning the sneezing comes during the spring, late summer, or fall, are most likely caused by pollens. Pollens are the male reproductive cells of seed plants that can be found virtually anywhere. Although it may seem impossible to escape them, there are ways a person can avoid exposure to these allergy-inducing pollens.

Monitoring your area’s pollen count can help you plan your activities when pollen in the atmosphere is small. Pollen count is particularly high in the mornings and on warm, dry, and windy days. The best times for outdoor activities are after 10AM, or after a rainfall.

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Pollen sticks to any material, particularly on the clothing and hair. Do not hang your clothes out to dry during times with high pollen count. Make sure to change clothes and wash your hair after coming from the outside, as pollens may be transferred to your pillow cases and bed sheets. Minimizing contact with objects that have frequent contact with pollen (like pets and people who are outdoors most of the time) can also lessen allergy attacks.

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It’s also best to visit a doctor to know which kind of pollen you are allergic to and what medication to get in case of an allergy attack. Following these tips will ensure you that allergies will not take control of your life, even with pollens.

Robert R. Beltran, M.D., is a California-based otolaryngologist specializing in allergic rhinitis and chronic sinusitis. Learn more about how to avoid and manage allergies by visiting this Facebook page.

Nonallergic rhinitis: Symptoms, causes, and treatment

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Nonallergic rhinitis is a condition that has all the symptoms of an allergy – chronic sneezing, congested and drippy nose – with no apparent cause. The inside of the nose is inflamed, and the blood vessels expand which causes the lining of the nose to swell. The mucus glands are then stimulated, resulting in congestion. Nonallergic rhinitis usually occurs in adulthood, with symptoms that last year round.

One of the most common causes of nonallergic rhinitis is the environment. Irritants that float in the air, such as car exhaust, cigarette smoke, strong cleaning agents, smog, perfume, or wood dust can trigger an attack. Medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, contraceptives, and antidepressants can also cause a reaction. Other causes are spicy food, alcoholic beverages, weather changes, illegal drugs, hormonal changes, and stress.

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Diagnosis and treatment of this condition are usually given when allergic rhinitis has been ruled out. A skin test is usually administered to determine if the allergens cause the symptoms. Once it has been determined, treatment is then administered depending on the severity of the condition. Medications can range from nasal sprays (saline, corticosteroid, antihistamine, anti-drip anticholinergic, and decongestant) and oral decongestants. In severe cases, surgical procedures may be performed.

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Nonallergic rhinitis may not be harmful, but it can be very annoying and can make a person miserable. The correct treatment can give a person with nonallergic rhinitis relief without the risk of any side effects. Consult with your doctor to make sure you are diagnosed and medicated properly.

California-based doctor Robert R. Beltran specializes in treating chronic sinusitis and allergic rhinitis. Follow this Twitter account for the latest medical news and updates.

Bless you: A primer on allergic rhinitis

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Allergic rhinitis occurs when a person is introduced to a particular type of allergen. These allergens can range from dust to grass to anything that may potentially irritate the nose and throat. Often referred to as hay fever, allergic rhinitis affects millions of individuals nationwide. This seasonal disorder, while not detrimental or life-threatening, can be irritating and possibly embarrassing.

Allergens cause the body to release histamine, which is a chemical used to defend the body. However, histamine also has several side effects such as runny or clogged nose, excessive sneezing, and sore eyes. A person may also experience difficulty in breathing. Hay fever usually runs in families. If both parents are susceptible to seasonal allergy, chances are high that their children will develop hay fever as well. Symptoms occur immediately after contact with the substance, and they could worsen over time. It is highly recommended to visit an otolaryngologist, such as Robert R. Beltran, M.D., when the individual is already suffering from clogged ears, a decreased sense of smell, sore throat, or is fatigued and irritable. Preventing and treating the condition early on will reduce the risk of the illness developing into a more severe disorder.

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Mild allergic rhinitis can be treated with a nasal wash that removes mucus from the nose. More intense forms of the allergy are treated with the following types of medicine:

- Antihistamines
- Corticosteroids
- Decongestants
- Leukotriene inhibitors
- Allergy shots
- Sublingual immunotherapy treatment

It is important to note that the last three treatment options are meant for more severe types of the allergy and should only be done upon the recommendation of a trusted medical health professional.

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Robert R, Beltran, M.D., is a trusted California-based otolaryngologist. Fluent in both Spanish and English, he assists patients with ear, nose, or throat problems. For more information, please like this Facebook page .