The salivary glands include 3 paired glands and many minor glands that line the mouth. All of the glands can be affected by infections, tumors and other diseases that affect their function. Some of the problems involve surgery to correct. Some involve non-surgical treatment, and at times problems with glands can be the sign of more serious medical problems. Ask one of our doctors for advice about related problems.

Sore Throat   ^top

Sore throats are an extremely common symptom for the average population to develop. The vast majority of these are of viral etiology and resolce on their own without antibiotic therapy. Supportive treatment such as over-the-counter medications are commonly useful, as well as home remedies such as salt water gargles.

Strep throat can only be diagnosed with a strep culture or a rapid strep test and is imperative to be treated with a full course of oral antibiotics to prevent more serious conditions from developing such as rheumatic heart disease. Other forms of sore throat would be from postnasal drainage or gastroesophageal reflux disorder, both of which are typically associated with early morning sore throats which resolve over the course of the day. Any unresolving sore throat should be evaluated by your physician.

Swallowing Disorders   ^top

Dysphagia

Dysphagia is a swallowing disorder caused by the difficulty moving food from the mouth, to the esophagus (food tube), to the stomach.

• Signs and symptoms

Signs and symptoms of dysphagia (swallowing disorder) include but are not limited to:

• inability to control food/saliva in the mouth
• coughing during or after meals
• recurring pneumonia
• unexplained weight loss
• “gurgly” voice quality after mealtime

• Possible causes

Possible causes of dysphagia may include neurologic disturbances (stroke, paralysis), cancer of the mouth or throat, or age related changes.

• Examination

Dysphagia can be assessed through a simple office examination called F.E.E.S. (Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing). In this exam, the Speech Pathologist or Physician will insert a small flexible scope into your nose in order to look at your throat while you swallow. To do this, you will be asked to eat and drink everyday foods. This procedure allows your swallow to be videotaped and helps determine the best treatment.

• Therapy

If recommended, therapy for dysphagia will be provided by the Speech Pathologist. This may include swallowing precautions, techniques, and / or modification of diet.

Tonsillitis   ^top

The tonsils are two small lymphoid organs that lie on each side of the throat. Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils caused by infection. It can spread from person to person by coughing and sneezing. In Tonsillitis, the tonsils are enlarged, red and may have white spots on them. It usually begins with a sudden sore throat and painful swallowing. Tonsillitis can be diagnosed by performing a rapid strep test or throat culture. The illness occurs primarily in children, but adults are sometimes affected.

Voice Disorders   ^top

Please see the Voice Care Center.
 

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