How Do Certain Foods Affect Congestion?
A stuffy nose is not only uncomfortable, but it has the power to ruin your sleep or make your morning coffee taste bland. While food isn’t a magic fix for congestion, the right choices can support your body’s natural defenses and improve sinus health. Why Does Congestion Happen? Congestion occurs when the tissues lining your…
How Ear Infections Can Affect Your Hearing
Most people associate ear infections with ear pain and discomfort, but they can also temporarily affect your ability to hear. In some cases, frequent or severe infections may even lead to long-term hearing issues. Understanding how ear infections impact hearing and how to prevent complications can help protect your ear health. The Link Between Ear…
What To Know About Viral vs Bacterial Sinus Infections
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is an inflammation of the tissues lining your sinuses. Sinus infections come with unpleasant side effects like facial pain and a stuffy or runny nose. The common cold, fungi, allergies, bacteria and other viruses are common causes of sinus inflammation. Let’s explore two of these causes—viruses and bacteria—and how their…
Common Causes of Nasal Obstruction
Nasal obstruction refers to anything that blocks the easy flow of air through your nose. It can leave you feeling like your nose is full or you can’t take a deep breath. Other symptoms that may arise from nasal obstruction include pain or pressure in the face, runny nose, changes in sense of smell, snoring…
What To Know About Tympanosclerosis
Tympanosclerosis is a condition where scarring develops on the eardrum due to calcium deposits, causing it to thicken or harden. While it often goes unnoticed because symptoms are mild or absent, severe scarring can lead to hearing loss. Let’s explore what causes tympanosclerosis and the treatment options available. What Causes Tympanosclerosis? The exact cause of…
Tips for Preventing Sinus Infections This Winter
Winter often brings more than just chilly weather—it may increase the risk of sinus infections. Sinusitis, or the inflammation of the tissues lining your sinuses, can become more common this time of year due to factors like seasonal colds, flu, dry indoor air and exposure to allergens. Let’s explore simple and effective ways to keep…
Why Am I Battling Persistent Throat Pain?
A sore throat that lingers for weeks or keeps coming back can turn everyday joys—like savoring your favorite Taste Local meal or chatting with friends—into a frustrating ordeal. Let’s dive into some common reasons for ongoing throat discomfort and explore how you can find relief. Five Common Causes of Throat Pain Five common causes of…
Savor Thanksgiving Flavors: Don’t Let Sinus Congestion Ruin Your Meal
Thanksgiving is here again with all the holiday favorites: roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, green beans and sweet pecan or pumpkin pie. But if you’re battling a sinus infection, you might be worried about how congestion will affect your taste buds. Let’s explore what causes sinus infections, how they impact flavor and what you can…
Why Are Colds More Common in the Winter?
During winter, cases of the common cold rise significantly and are credited as the illness for creating the most days off work. This seasonal increase can also be seen in Fort Collins, where chilly winter temperatures encourage more people to stay indoors. Understanding how winter impacts colds and illnesses will help prepare you to protect…
Halloween Safety Tips for Your Ears, Nose and Throat
Halloween is a time filled with fun, costumes and lots of treats, but it’s also a common time for sickness to set in. With the excitement of loud parties and the chilly weather, it’s easy to overlook how activities at Osborn Farm might impact your ears, nose and throat (ENT). Here are some practical tips…