Otolaryngologist and Audiologist: Know your Specialist

Hearing is one of our most important senses. Hearing is a miracle that allows you to receive information, communicate, listen to music, and feel the sounds around you.

Ears are a vital part of the human body, performing functions such as hearing and maintaining body balance. The most common problems are ear infections. Hearing loss caused by ageing is common in the elderly. According to research, one in every three adults over the age of 65 suffers from age-related hearing loss.

We must be conscious of the essential tips for maintaining our ear health and schedule regular check-ups with health professionals. A patient who wants to take care of their ear health will usually be referred to an audiologist and an otolaryngologist.

An audiologist is a medical professional who specializes in the treatment of hearing and ear health issues. Audiologists must have a master's degree in audiology from a recognized board. Audiologists are not doctors, but rather health professionals who have expertise in audiology. They detect, assess, and treat hearing, stability, and other neural system disorders. Audiologists do not perform surgery or give medication.

An otolaryngologist is a physician who specializes in the treatment of ear, throat, and nose problems. Otolaryngology is a medical field concerned with the ears, nose, and throat. Because specialists are trained in both medicine and surgery, it is also known as otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. An otolaryngologist, also known as an ENT, is a doctor who specializes in the ears, nose, and throat.

Both audiologists and ENT doctors deal with outer ear and inner ear concerns. Both are capable of making diagnoses and administering a variety of interventions. An audiologist, on the other hand, will be more knowledgeable about how these body systems relate to your hearing instead of just your overall health.

Audiologists assess a patient's hearing ability, clean the earwax, and assist in the repair of hearing aids. If the patient's condition is more concerned, he or she will be referred to an otolaryngologist. Audiologists are the first line of interaction for hearing complications.

ENT PROCEDURES:

Early detection helps seniors avoid total hearing loss. Implants and operations may assist seniors who have lost their ability to hear due to ageing in regaining their hearing ability. The following are some of the procedures performed by implant otology.

• Cochlear implant

For those who have a hearing impairment or deficiency, cochlear implant surgery is a very useful treatment. A receiver-stimulator is implanted on the inside of the patient's ear. The cochlear implant is a simple and quick surgical procedure.

• Bone Bridge implant 

The use of a bone bridge implant can aid in the treatment of a variety of ENT-related difficulties. A bone bridge implant is typically used to treat hearing loss in one ear. This is a simple outpatient operation in which an audio processor is attached both in and out of the ear.

Vikram ENT Hospital and Research Institute- Taking exceptional care to provide the best quality treatments possible by utilizing the most advanced medical technological tools for ENT procedures. Vikram ENT is an ENT hospital in Coimbatore with well-equipped cutting-edge medical technology to provide precise care to patients. Here are the technologies that support safe and quality procedures.

• Facial Nerve Monitor: This is a technological facility dedicated to ENT services for patients. Using a Facial Nerve Monitor has become critical to reducing the possible risks of nerve impairments that are common in all medical surgeries, including ENT surgery. Accidental nerve damage can be greatly reduced by using a Facial Nerve Monitor.
• Audiology lab: Entering an audiology lab is inevitable when it comes to clearly and effectively solve all types of hearing impairments. An experienced audiologist's efficient and professional intervention will make the patients' sufferings less challenging.
• Laser-assisted ENT surgery: In ENT Surgeries, equipment such as the KTP 532 laser, CO2 laser, and Carl Zeiss Sensera Microscope ensure and support precise procedures.

Vikram ENT is indeed one of the best and globally recognized ENT specialist treatment centres in Coimbatore, established by the best ENT professionals in India, with skilled audiologists and otolaryngologists to treat hearing-related concerns. Providing patient-centred care and promoting the senior’s wellbeing.

If your senior is experiencing hearing impairment, it is best to conduct a check up and see a specialist as soon as possible.

Improve Your Sleep Quality: Solutions for Sleep Disorders

Tossing looks good on coins, not so good on you. But unfortunately, many people today are tossing and turning around on their bed in the hope of finding sleep.

Call it insomnia, sleep deprivation, or sleep apnea - today’s generation is experiencing sleep-related issues than any other.

It has become so common that getting a good night’s sleep is considered as a boon and people who didn’t get it are doomed. Why so? Let’s find out.

The ABCs of Sleep

Ever wondered what is sleep? Why should we sleep at all? The answer for these questions is really interesting.

The Definition of Sleep

By definition sleep is a state of mind and body characterized by an altered sense of consciousness, reduced physical activities and an inhibited state of sensory awakeness.

We need sleep for growth, to conduct important nerve functions that include memory, intelligence, and the very ability to think.

The Science of Sleep

Brain chemicals, also known as neurotransmitters, decide whether one should be awake or doze off. And they take this call depending on the neurons they are currently on.

• If they are on the brainstem - Serotonin and norepinephrine are produced to keep the person awake.
• If they are at the base of the brain - Simply turns off the signals which otherwise keep us awake.

Even though we have gained some deep insights on the science of sleep, there is so much to learn about this unique state of body and mind that everyone needs sufficiently.

The Impact of Lack of Sleep

The cumulative impact of sleep-related issues are closely associated with a range of chronic health issues that have deleterious outcome.

Starting from increasing the risk of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, sleep disorders can open doors for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular issues by creating blocks in the arteries.

There is concrete evidences that claim 7 out of 15 chronic and dangerous health issues are triggered by lack of sleep or inadequate sleep.

Besides the physical issues, sleep is the prime reason behind mental issues that include mood swings, being cranky, demotivated and depression.

How Much is Not Much

Some surveys state 8 hours is the sweet spot for a good sleep and some state it’s 9 hours. But only the individual knows how much ‘ZZZ’ time he or she needs.

Sufficient sleep rejuvenates the body and mind. If you are feeling relaxed and refreshed after a night’s sleep, maintain the same sleep routine.

Sleep is as important as food or physical activity. Finding the food and workout choices that suit your body type takes time. It is the same with quality sleep as well.

Tips to Improve Sleep and Its Quality

We are all born sleepers and the ability of sleep should come naturally. If we are finding it difficult to do it, we have messed it up somewhere for so long!

But fret not. You can bring in things into order by following the most followed sleep enhancing tips. However, if your lack of sleep has turned into a disorder, you should consider sleep therapy.

Everything On the Clock -

• Discipline in life can cure many illnesses, including sleep depravity. Follow a strict sleep routine to cure most of your sleep deprivation.
• Eat right at the right time, exercise daily in the morning and evening.
• Have enough exposure to your body under the sun and completely avoid watching mobile, laptop or TV screen at least 2 hours before sleep.

Best Foods for Good Sleep -

• Melatonin is responsible for sleep. And minerals such as magnesium and phosphorus enhance sleep quality.
• Foods such as almonds, walnuts, fatty fish and turkey are great natural resources for these two sleep-enhancing sources and many others.
• Drinking passionflower tea and chamomile tea, and kiwi fruit juice can also help with your sleep.

Exercises for Sleep -

• Exercise is a great way to release mental and physical stress and a stress-free body can go to sleep with ease.
• It can be a long walk or jog - sweat enough outdoors everyday morning and evening for better quality sleep in the night.
• If you practice yoga, there is nothing like that to get good sleep. Breathing yogic practices such as padmasana, vajrasana and meditation not only keep you away from medications but also increase your sleep quality.

Stay Positive

• The word ‘positive’ is probably the most used term in wellness blogs like this. It’s not easy to stay positive always.
• But this one trick can help you remain calm even in the situations that make you restless and stressful.
• Practice the art of acting to things instead of reacting. Reaction is uncalled and action is always welcomed!

These sleep recommendations can help you have some shuteye only to an extent. If you are still tossing around at night, think of consulting a sleep specialist.  Consider Vikram ENT Hospital - An ENT specialty hospital that has been deep rooted in consulting and treating all ENT related issues!

5 Signs you should Visit an ENT Specialist Right Now!

An otolaryngologist or otherwise commonly known as the ENT specialist, is a highly trained medical practitioner who treats conditions related to ear, nose, and throat. They are experts and experienced in general consultation, counseling, and surgery based on the need. One can directly book an appointment with an ENT specialist or consult them upon the recommendation from the general physician.

You might want to see an ENT doctor if you are facing hearing issues, foreign objects in ear, general ear infections, nasal congestion, dust allergy, balance disorder, and ear wax blockage. But when exactly is the right time to make the appointment? Stay with us until the end of the blog to learn more about it.

What exactly does an ENT specialist do?

Otolaryngology is a medical specialty that deals with issues in the neck and head region. The ear, nose, and throat are intricately connected with each other. The middle is connected to the back of the throat and the throat and nose share a direct connection. People with one medical issue in any of these organs can end up having issues with the rest.

What are the ear conditions an ENT specialist treats?

Ear conditions are mostly related to ear infections caused by viruses and bacteria in the middle ear. Also, issues related to balance, hearing disorders, and ear pain. The ENT specialists are also experts in treating congenital ear, nose, and throat issues.

What are the nose issues treated by an ENT specialist?

ENT doctors treat nose conditions that include allergies, nasal masses and tumors, sinus conditions, nose bleeds, nasal fractures, and nasal polyps. They are highly trained in diagnosing and treating issues related to smell and breathing difficulties.

What are the throat conditions an ENT doctor treats?

The throat specialists treat an array of conditions that include tumors in the throat, difficulty in swallowing, issues related to adenoids, voice disorders, tonsillitis, strep throat, sore throat, and issues related to salivary gland.

Apart from the ENT issues, the specialists also provide treatment and manage conditions such as air blocks due to GERD, tumors in the neck and head region, trauma, deformities, and issues with facial movements.

When is the right time to book an appointment with the ENT doctor?

As the organs in the head are interconnected, most of these conditions show symptoms that are identical. More than the adults, it is children who suffer with ENT issues and most children may not be able to voice out the symptoms. It is important for parents to be aware of the symptoms. Here are a few signs that indicate it’s time to see an ENT specialist.

1. Waking up with a blocked nose - A blocked nose can be a symptom of a common cold and it can also be a symptom of a more serious condition. If your child is waking up with blocked nose or complains about clogged nose regularly, consult with an ENT specialist.
2. A sore throat that doesn’t go away - Constant sore throat can be a sign of a serious ENT issue and requires immediate medical attention. However, do not assume anything without consulting the doctor. Usually, sore throats that do not go away for more than a week and cause inconvenience even to drink water are considered serious.
3. Constant ringing sensation in the ear - There are many conditions that show this symptom. In most cases, it can be a symptom of tinnitus. If you are experiencing episodes of it for more than a couple of days, ensure you reach out for proper diagnosis and treatment from an ENT hospital.
4. Episodes of hearing loss for more than a week - Temporary hearing loss can happen as a result of listening to loud music or noise for a long time. In most cases, the hearing is restored. If you are experiencing episodes of hearing loss from time and again, it is time to consult an ENT specialist. Persistent hearing loss in children can be a sign of a serious issue.
5. Throat pain and earache - Minor discomfort and pain are the symptoms of common cold. If your child is complaining about sharp, shooting, and pulsating pain in the ear, you should see an ENT doctor. Earache can happen due to blocks in the ear caused by earwax. If the pain is persistent, then it is because of a serious condition.

How can ENT doctors help?

ENT specialists conduct proper diagnosis and follow proven treatment methods to treat or manage ENT issues. These 5 signs are associated with issues that require proper care and they are persistent.

If you are looking for an ENT hospital in Coimbatore, book an appointment with Vikram ENT. Treating an array of ENT conditions, the hospital provides world-class medical solutions for all types of ears, nose, and throat related issues.

Temporary Hearing Loss: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Many people believe that acquired hearing loss occurs gradually. Contrary to this popular belief, hearing loss can happen almost instantly.

To put the sudden hearing loss into words, both your ears would be working just fine, and all of a sudden, one ear ceases to hear sounds.

The whole experience of sudden hearing loss can be confusing and cause dizziness. And, in more than 90% of cases, sudden hearing loss occurs in only one ear.

But the relieving factor is that sudden hearing loss can be temporary if the treatment is provided early.

Temporary Hearing Loss - An Overview

Temporary or sudden hearing loss is associated with bacterial or viral infections in the middle ear. Middle ear infection leads to a buildup of fluid which again fuels infection.

The fluid, infection, and swelling disrupt the soundwaves reach the inner ear, causing hearing loss in the infected ear.

Symptoms of Temporary Hearing Loss

The hearing will be back within 24-48 hours, but it can permanently damage the infected ear. It is imperative to observe the symptoms and seek proper medical help.

Here are a few symptoms to look out for in temporary hearing loss scenarios. If you are a parent, knowing these symptoms help your loved one to a great extent.

• Suddenly one of the two ears loses hearing ability.
• Muffled sound in one of the ears.
• Dizziness, confusion, and vomiting.
• A sense of losing balance and focus.
• Continuous ringing sensation.

Causes for Temporary Hearing Loss

Temporary hearing loss has many contributing reasons, from ear infections to exposure to loud noises or sounds.

These causes are different from temporary hearing loss in children and kids. Here are a few common reasons behind temporary hearing loss in kids and adults.

1. Earwax Buildup
• Earwax is good for the ear. The human body has an intelligent mechanism that discards earwax before it builds up.
• However, there can be times when the earwax gets stuck in the canal and starts building up.
• Long-term buildup can hinder the ability to hear and causes infections that can pave their way to the mid-air.
• The infection can impact the eardrum causing temporary hearing loss.
2. Infections of Middle Ear
• Caused by various viruses and bacteria, multiple ear infections can cause fluids that can damage the eardrum.
• In some cases, the fluid pressure on the eardrum can be so much that it can cause rupture, leading to sudden hearing loss.
• These infections can start from a simple cold or severe allergic reaction in some people.
3. Swimmer’s Ear
• It is a commonly known infection in recent swimmers and children learning swimming.
• The infection can start with itchy ears and pain or discomfort in the ears. This is because the water did not drain properly from the canal.
• Based on the infection, it can be excruciating. If you observe your child’s symptoms, visit your nearest ENT doctor.
4. Exposure to Loud Noises for Long
• If you are an adult who loves music at a higher volume or someone who lives nearby the airports or loud-noise-making factories, take care of your ears now!
• Long-term exposure to loud noises can disrupt your hearing by causing damage to the cells that transmit sound waves to the brain.
• Loud noises can damage the tiny hair cells known as the soundwave transmitters if the ears are exposed for a long time.
• Even though this does not cause pain or discomfort, loud noise exposure is one of the leading causes of eardrum rupture and permanent hearing loss.
5. Heart and Hearing Loss
• You might wonder that what’s the relation between heart and hearing. It’s the blood relation.
• Heart or cardiovascular issues can negatively impact both peripheral and central auditory systems.
• The heart pumps blood to all the body parts — including the ears. When the blood circulation to the ear is not at the required level, it can lead to hearing loss.
6. Obesity and Hearing Loss
• Like heart and hearing loss, this connection boils down to blood circulation.
• An inactive lifestyle is one of the reasons for obesity. Low metabolism, narrow blood vessels, and high blood pressure can decrease blood circulation to the cochlea, causing hearing loss.

Apart from these, medicinal side effects can lead to temporary hearing loss. Common medications such as aspirin can cause a ringing sensation in the ear.

If you are someone with a heart condition or a stroke survivor experiencing disturbing hearing or temporary hearing loss, seek appropriate medical help.

The ability to hear determines your quality of life. If you are experiencing any discomfort or difficulty in hearing, get in touch with Vikram ENT Hospital in Coimbatore for comprehensive ear care, starting from cochlear implants, hearing aids, ear surgery, and more.

Ruptured Eardrums - Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Everything You Should Know

The sound of thunder, a blast, or even a cracker can leave a hole in your eardrum. It is called a ruptured or perforated eardrum, and it can happen suddenly.

When it happens, some feel a sharp pain in the ear that eventually goes away, and some may not feel anything.

Usually, ruptured eardrums heal on their own. If it is not, there are medical ways to treat and cure it permanently.

Discomfort in the ear, reduced or hard hearing, air coming freely out of the ear when the nose is blown, overall, an unusual feeling might bring them to the ENT hospital.

Eardrums - Basics First

So, what is an eardrum? Why is it so crucial in hearing? Learn the basics about it so you clearly understand the ruptured eardrum and what to do about it?

The eardrum is a complex thin tissue flap that separates the ear canal from the mid-ear. This tiny flap of skin vibrates when the soundwaves hit it and move the bones connected to the middle ear.

The bone vibrations reach the inner ear and are sent to the brain, where the meaning of sound is interpreted.

Not just the sound duties, but the eardrum protects the middle ear from water, bacteria, and infections.

A Ruptured Eardrum - What Causes It?

Eardrum rupture can occur due to a blast (also known as blast injury), infection in the middle ear, loud sounds (acoustic trauma), and severe head trauma.

Some causes include scuba diving, paragliding, flying, or driving at higher altitudes, sudden change in pressure, and the ear being exposed to continuous shock waves.

The ruptured eardrum heals within a week to two weeks. In some cases, it might lead to infections, need ENT doctor intervention, or even surgery to repair the hole.

Symptoms of Ruptured Eardrum

The symptoms vary from person to person, depending upon the cause of the rupture. Some might feel a sharp pain right after the impact (one of the blast injury symptoms), and some might not experience it.

After the impact, the person might experience a combination of symptoms. Here are the most common symptoms of a ruptured eardrum.

• Episodes of severe headaches that come and go.
• Ear bleeding, pus-filled drainage from the ear, and infections.
• Vertigo (spinning sensation) and tinnitus (ringing sensation).
• Gradual or sudden hearing loss.
• Nausea and vomiting (as a result of vertigo).

When Should One Be Worried?

The symptoms of eardrum rupture are associated with many other ear infections and conditions.

However, if your child is experiencing these symptoms after an exposer to any of the causes of ruptured eardrums mentioned above, book a visit to your nearest ENT hospital.

Diagnosis for Ruptured Eardrum

The ENT specialists conduct the initial diagnosis and explore treatment options for various causes of a ruptured eardrum. This includes acquired hearing loss as a result of a blast injury.

The ENT doctor might use various diagnostic methods to determine the rupture. If it is there, the treatment is focused on healing it by using medications or surgery.

The diagnosis process involves fluid sample testing, otoscope exam (a particular device to check the eardrum), audiology exam, and tympanometry (a special device to check the pressure responsiveness)

Treatment for Ruptured Eardrum

Based on the findings during the diagnosis, the doctor might develop the best possible course of treatment focusing on relieving pain, patch-up the hole, and preventing ear infections.

1. Patch-up the Hole - The specialist might use a medicated paper-like patch and places it inside the ear to cover the hole. The paper patch encouraged the eardrum membrane to grow and cover the hole itself.
2. Antibiotics - Used in both cases in which an infection causes ruptured eardrum and to prevent infection in cases rupture occurred due to external trauma.
3. Surgery - Surgery is employed in rare cases only when the other treatment options fail or are proven ineffective. The procedure is called tympanoplasty. In this procedure, the ENT surgeon takes tissue from other parts of the body and grafts the hole.

If you still have questions about ruptured eardrums, here are a few frequently asked questions on this topic.

What are the home remedies for ruptured eardrums?

If you have been diagnosed with this condition, stop blowing your nose to promote natural healing. Also, place a warm and dry compress on your ear to relieve pain.

How to prevent ruptured eardrums in children below 3?

If your child is experiencing frequent ear infections, consult your family ENT specialist. Check your child’s ear health at regular intervals and prevent them from inserting foreign objects like pencils to avoid damage.

How to take care of your ears and keep your hygiene?

Always dry your ears with a warm towel after a bath, turn the volume down, give your ears the recovery time after a long Zoom meeting or music, force a yawn time-to-time to maintain the pressure. Get regular ear checks; you or your children need them for better ear health.

Vikram ENT Hospital, one of the best ENT hospitals in Coimbatore, provides advanced treatment solutions for ruptured eardrums caused by a blast injury, car accident, or head trauma.

Book an appointment today and follow us for more insightful blogs on ear, nose, and throat health.

Hearing Aids Vs. Cochlear Implants: The Key Differences You Should Know

The ability to hear is one of the essential basic skills of life. It determines a person’s quality of relationships both in personal and professional lives.

Life can be tricky sometimes. Hearing loss or hard of hearing resulting from an accident or a health issue can turn one’s world upside down.

But they can find alternatives in hearing aids and cochlear implants, thanks to the advanced medical technologies in the ENT region.

This blog sheds light on both these alternatives along with the critical differences between them. Read along.

Hearing Aids: Here is What You Should Know

Hearing aids for children and adults are tiny electronic devices designed to amplify the sound coming into the ear.

Ideal for people with mild to moderate hearing loss that is majorly observed in children, the hearing aids consist of three major parts.

1. Microphone - Receive sound waves and converts them into electrical signals
2. Amplifier - Enhances or magnifies the electrical signals
3. Speaker - Turns the magnified signals into sound and sends them into the ear

The new type of more enhanced hearing aid is coming into the market every year with advancing technology.

Types of Hearing Aids

Different hearing aids feature different sound profiles that can be adjusted based on the outside environment.

Depending on the style of the aid, there are three types - behind the ear (BTE), completely in the ear canal, and receiver in the ear.

Cochlear Implants: Here is What You Should Know

The cochlea is a part of the inner ear responsible for transforming sound into a neural message that reaches the brain.

Those who have sensorineural hearing loss need artificial devices that play the role of the cochlea. The cochlear implants are surgically placed behind the ear, below the skin, connecting the cochlea and the implants via the electrodes.

The sound signals bypass the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve while causing the sensation of sound. The implants consist of three major parts.

1. Microphone - It picks up sound and sends it to the processor
2. Processer - Consists of a transmitter and receiver, it converts sound into electric impulses
3. Electrode Array - Collects the impulses and feeds the auditory nerve, which transmits the signals to the brain to process the sound

Cochlear implants are complicated in terms of structure and the way they function. People who have lost hearing due to diabetes, excessive sound exposure, and head injuries are qualified for these implants.

Bone Anchored Hearing System (BAHS): Another Potential Alternative

Apart from hearing aids and cochlear implants, BAHS is employed in the cases of people who have at least one fully functioning ear. It is a conductive hearing loss but occurred only in one ear.

Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implants: The Key Differences

There are a few differences between these two hearing technologies, but they share the same purpose - enabling the individual to perceive sound better and restore their communication ability.

1. Structure: Hearing aids follow a simple mechanism and functionality, whereas cochlear implants are more advanced and complex.
2. Ease of use: Cochlear implants require surgery, and hearing aids are a simple fix. Hearing aids can be removed and fixed even by children with practice.
3. Suitability: Hearing aids are used for mild to moderate hearing loss because of their ability to amplify sound. Cochlear implants are best suited for people with severe hearing loss.
4. Improvement: Some testing results indicate that hearing aids enhance the person’s ability to hear and communicate by 50%. The same is the case with cochlear implants.
5. Adaptability: Hearing aids take two or less than two weeks for the child or adult to adapt. Cochlear implants take anywhere between 6 to 12 months. It is more than 12 months in some cases.
6. Risk: Hearings aids come with zero risk. Cochlear implants entertain low to moderate risk as it involves surgery.
7. Cost-effectiveness: The cost of hearing aids range from anywhere between 5000 to 50000 in India. However, cochlear implants in India can cost between 3 to 6 lakhs. The cost, again, depends on various factors, including levels of hearing loss, the city, and the surgeon.

Hearing aid selection is a critical process and involves the careful evaluation of various aspects of hearing loss. Consult your ENT specialist or book an appointment with the best ENT hospital near you for better assessment. 

If you still have questions about hearing aids and cochlear implants, we have collected and furnished a few of the most frequently asked questions below. Read on.

Is there an age limit for hearing aids and cochlear implants?

No, there is no age limit for both hearing loss treatments. However, cochlear implant treatment is ultimately your doctor’s call.

Which one is right for you - a hearing aid or cochlear implant? 

That is a question that could be answered only by a qualified ENT specialist or an otolaryngologist. Consult your doctor to make a better decision.

Vikram ENT is one of the best ENT hospitals in Coimbatore. Get world-class solutions for all your hearing-related issues. Book an appointment today.

Can vocal infections cause you from voice change? How to safeguard and maintain our vocal cords from getting affected?

Vocal infections are caused by lumps in the throat due to inflammation of vocal cords by viruses and bacteria. Yes, these infections certainly lead to changes in voice and vocal disorders. That is because the infected vocal cords are not able to vibrate normally thereby affecting the quality of the voice in terms of pitch, tone and volume. The risk factors of getting such infections increase with age, smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, illnesses like cold, cough, thyroid problems and voice overuse.

Fortunately, vocal infections and disorders can be cured by making certain healthy lifestyle changes and treating the underlying condition through medical intervention, therapy or surgery. Vikram ENT Hospital, a leading specialty ENT hospital in Coimbatore, offers promising treatments for all kinds of ENT problems including voice disorders. This globally renowned ENT specialist centre is equipped with the latest medical technological tools and infrastructure and supported by the best ENT doctors in Coimbatore. It is known for handling multitudes of patients with an accurate diagnosis, precise treatment and excellent healthcare outcomes.

Let us now dwell deeper into the details of vocal infections and their prevention.

Symptoms of Vocal Infections

• Hoarse or raspy voice
• Inability to sing high notes
• Sudden deepening of the voice
• Strained or itchy throat
• Frequent clearing of the throat
• Difficulty in speaking

Causes of Vocal Infections

• Upper Respiratory Tract (URT) Infections including laryngitis, pharyngitis, sinusitis and strep throat
• Inflammation caused due to gastro-esophageal reflux (GERD)
• Misuse or straining of voice
• Throat cancer
• Abnormal growths like vocal cord cysts, vocal polyps and nodules
• Neurological diseases like vocal paralysis
• Psychological trauma
• Hyper nasal speech

Diagnosis and Treatment

The ENT specialist does a detailed evaluation of the problem and may conduct a physical examination of the vocal cords using instruments like a laryngoscope or video stroboscope. Sometimes, further tests like acoustic analysis and laryngeal electromyography may be needed.

The treatment roadmap depends on the cause of the vocal disorder. It may include-

• Lifestyle Changes - Resting the vocal cords periodically and drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dryness in the throat are some simple remedies to handle the problem. Smoking cessation is also highly advisable.
• Speech Therapy - Qualified speech pathologists can help patients in using their voice more effectively through speech or voice therapy. They also guide them on deep breathing techniques, the amount of hydration required and effective throat-clearing methodologies.
• Allergy Treatment - If the voice disruptions are occurring due to allergies caused by the creation of too much mucus in the throat, medications may be prescribed by allergy specialists to overcome the issue.
• Medications - Depending on the cause, medications may be given by ENT doctors for combating inflammation, infections, gastroesophageal problems or for preventing blood vessel regrowth.
• Surgical Interventions - In chronic cases, surgery may be needed for the removal of lesions on the vocal cords. Laser treatment is another state-of-art approach that is popular these days for removing these growths. Medicated injections may be given to decrease muscular spams and abnormal movements of the vocal muscles.

Tips to Safeguard and Protect Vocal Cords

• Remain well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Limit intake of caffeinated beverages and alcohol.
• Take vocal naps to give rest to the vocal cords.
• Use a humidifier at home.
• Avoid medications that cause dryness of the throat.
• Stop smoking.
• Reduce intake of highly spicy foods to prevent acidity, heartburn and GERD.
• Consume plenty of wholegrain foods, fresh vegetables and fruits. These are enriched with Vitamins A, E and C that help to keep the mucus membrane of the throat healthy.
• Maintain hand hygiene particularly if you are suffering from a cold or flu.
• Have a regular exercise regime.
• Take sufficient rest as physical exertion can hamper the voice.
• Avoid mouthwashes and gargles containing harmful chemicals.
• Use your voice wisely and do not strain it.
• Rest your voice completely when you are sick.
• Avoid using extreme vocal ranges like shouting and screaming.
• Practice healthy breathing techniques.
• Do not cradle the phone while speaking as it increases the muscular tension on the neck.
• Use microphones when appropriate.
• Avoid conversing in noisy zones.
• Consider taking voice therapy from professional therapists if required.

Thus, following a healthy lifestyle, avoiding voice misuse and seeking timely medical help can significantly prevent vocal infections. Please contact Vikram ENT Hospital, Coimbatore for more information.