Our expert team is dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, from voice disorders and swallowing difficulties to neck pain and tumors. At UTMB, we’re committed to helping you regain your health and confidence. Experience compassionate care tailored to your needs—because your voice and well-being matter.
Conditions We Treat
Airway/Other Laryngology Conditions
Croup
Croup
Overview:
Croup is a common respiratory condition in young children, characterized by inflammation of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi. It is typically caused by viral infections, most commonly parainfluenza viruses. Croup often leads to a distinctive barking cough, stridor (a harsh, raspy sound when breathing), and difficulty breathing, especially at night.
Symptoms:
- Barking Cough: A harsh, "seal-like" cough that is distinctive to croup.
- Stridor: A high-pitched, wheezing sound during inhalation, especially when the child is agitated or upset.
- Hoarseness: Changes in the child’s voice.
- Difficulty Breathing: Increased work of breathing and, in severe cases, respiratory distress.
- Fever: Mild fever may be present.
Treatments/Procedures:
Treatment for croup depends on the severity of symptoms and may include:
- Home Care: For mild cases, home treatment with humidified air, steam inhalation, and keeping the child calm can be effective.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers (like acetaminophen) can help reduce fever and discomfort. In more severe cases, corticosteroids (such as dexamethasone) may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
- Emergency Care: Severe croup may require hospitalization for observation, oxygen therapy, or nebulized epinephrine to relieve airway swelling.
Laryngeal Obstruction
Laryngeal Obstruction
Overview:
Laryngeal obstruction is a condition where the airway through the larynx (voice box) becomes blocked, restricting airflow and making it difficult to breathe. This condition can occur suddenly or develop gradually and can be caused by numerous factors, including anatomical abnormalities, infections, trauma, or foreign bodies.
Symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Stridor (a high-pitched wheezing sound during inhalation)
- Hoarseness or loss of voice
- Rapid breathing or a sense of panic
- Cyanosis (bluish coloration of the skin, especially around the lips and face) in severe cases
Treatments/Procedures:
- Emergency Interventions: In severe cases, procedures such as intubation or tracheostomy may be necessary to secure the airway.
- Medications: Corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation, particularly in cases of allergic reactions or infections.
- Surgical Options: Removal of tumors or foreign bodies and correction of anatomical abnormalities may be required.
- Ongoing Management: Patients with chronic conditions may benefit from speech therapy and lifestyle modifications to reduce symptoms.
Laryngeal Stridor
Laryngeal Stridor
Overview:
Laryngeal stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound that occurs during breathing, resulting from turbulent airflow in the larynx (voice box) due to partial obstruction. This condition can affect individuals of all ages and is often a sign of an underlying airway issue that may require medical evaluation and intervention.
Symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Hoarseness or changes in voice
- Coughing or throat clearing
- Rapid breathing or a sense of panic
Treatments/Procedures:
- Emergency Interventions: In severe cases, procedures such as intubation or tracheostomy may be necessary to secure the airway.
- Medications: Corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation, especially in cases related to infections or allergies.
- Surgical Options: Removal of tumors or foreign bodies, or correction of anatomical abnormalities, may be required.
- Ongoing Management: Patients with chronic conditions may benefit from speech therapy and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms.
Swallowing Disorders
Dysphagia From Neuromuscular Disorders
Dysphagia From Neuromuscular Disorders
Overview:
Dysphagia from neuromuscular disorders arises when diseases or conditions disrupt the normal function of the muscles and nerves that coordinate the swallowing process. This can lead to a range of symptoms affecting the safety and efficiency of swallowing. The condition often requires a multidisciplinary approach for effective management and treatment.
Symptoms:
- Difficulty Initiating Swallowing: Problems with starting the swallowing process or delayed swallowing reflex.
- Choking or Coughing: Frequent choking or coughing during or after eating and drinking due to impaired control of swallowing muscles.
- Aspiration: Food or liquid entering the airway, which can lead to respiratory issues or pneumonia.
- Sensation of Food Sticking: Feeling of food or liquid getting stuck in the throat or chest.
- Voice Changes: Changes in voice quality, such as hoarseness or a breathy voice, particularly after eating.
Treatment:
Treatment is tailored to each patient’s condition and may include:
- Swallowing Therapy: Customized exercises and techniques provided by our speech and language pathologists to enhance swallowing function and safety.
- Dietary Adjustments: Modifications to food texture and consistency to facilitate easier swallowing and reduce the risk of aspiration.
- Medications: To manage underlying neuromuscular conditions and alleviate symptoms.
- Assistive Devices: Tools and strategies to aid in swallowing and improve safety during meals.
- Coordination with Other Specialists: Collaboration with neurologists, dietitians, and occupational therapists to address all aspects of care.
Esophageal Dysphagia
Esophageal Dysphagia
Overview:
Esophageal dysphagia refers to difficulties in swallowing that originate in the esophagus. This condition can make it hard for food and liquids to move from the mouth to the stomach, leading to discomfort and complications. The issue may stem from structural abnormalities, motility disorders, or inflammation within the esophagus.
Symptoms:
- Difficulty Swallowing: A sensation of food getting stuck in the chest or throat, or trouble swallowing solid foods and liquids.
- Painful Swallowing: Discomfort or pain during or after swallowing.
- Regurgitation: The backflow of food or liquids from the esophagus into the mouth.
- Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest or throat, often related to GERD.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Resulting from eating difficulties or reduced food intake.
Treatment:
Treatment is customized based on the underlying cause and severity of the dysphagia, and may include:
- Medications: To manage inflammation, acid reflux, or motility disorders.
- Endoscopic Procedures: Such as dilation of strictures or removal of obstructions.
- Surgical Interventions: For severe cases, including surgery to correct structural abnormalities or repair hiatal hernias.
- Swallowing Therapy: Exercises and techniques to improve swallowing function, guided by our speech and language pathologists.
- Dietary Modifications: Adjustments to food texture and consistency to make swallowing easier and safer.
Oropharyngeal Dysphagia Condition
Oropharyngeal Dysphagia Condition
Overview:
Oropharyngeal dysphagia is a type of swallowing disorder that affects the oropharynx, the part of the throat located behind the mouth. It involves difficulty initiating the swallowing process and moving food or liquids from the mouth into the esophagus.
Symptoms:
- Difficulty Started Swallowing: Trouble initiating the act of swallowing, which can lead to delays in eating or drinking.
- Choking or Coughing: Episodes of coughing or choking while eating or drinking due to food or liquid entering the airway.
- Sensation of Food Sticking: Feeling of food or liquids getting stuck in the throat or chest.
- Voice Changes: Changes in voice quality, such as hoarseness or a wet-sounding voice, especially after eating or drinking.
- Frequent Aspiration: Occurrence of food or liquid entering the lungs, leading to coughing and potential respiratory issues.
Treatment:
Treatment is tailored to each patient’s needs and may include:
- Swallowing Therapy: Customized exercises and techniques designed by our speech and language pathologists to improve swallowing function and safety.
- Dietary Modifications: Adjustments to the texture and consistency of foods and liquids to make swallowing easier and safer.
- Medical Management: Medication or other treatments to address underlying conditions contributing to dysphagia.
- Surgical Intervention: In some cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to correct structural abnormalities or remove obstructions.
Thyroid Conditions
Goiters
Goiters
Overview:
A goiter is an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland, located at the front of the neck. While goiters can occur in people with normal thyroid function, they may also be associated with various thyroid conditions, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroiditis. Goiters can vary in size and may be visible or palpable as a swelling at the base of the neck.
Symptoms:
Many individuals with goiters may not experience noticeable symptoms, especially in the initial stages. However, as the goiter enlarges, symptoms may include:
- Visible swelling at the base of the neck
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Coughing or hoarseness
- Changes in voice
- Neck pain or discomfort
Treatments/Procedures:
Treatment for goiter depends on the underlying cause, size of the goiter, and symptoms:
- Observation: Small, asymptomatic goiters may only require regular monitoring.
- Medications: Thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism or antithyroid medications for hyperthyroidism.
- Surgery: Indicated for large goiters causing compression symptoms or suspicion of cancer.
Hyperactive and hypoactive parathyroid
Hyperactive and hypoactive parathyroid
Overview:
Hyperparathyroidism occurs when the parathyroid glands produce too much PTH, leading to elevated calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia). Hypoparathyroidism occurs when the parathyroid glands produce insufficient amounts of PTH, resulting in low calcium levels in the blood (hypocalcemia).
Symptoms:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Bone pain or fractures
- Kidney stones
- Tingling or numbness in the fingers and around the mouth
- Muscle cramps or spasms (tetany)
- Seizures
Treatments/Procedures:
Treatment may involve:
- Medications: To manage symptoms or lower calcium levels.
- Surgery: Often the primary treatment for primary hyperparathyroidism, aiming to remove the overactive gland.
- Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements: To help manage low calcium levels.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy: In some cases, synthetic PTH may be prescribed.
Hyperactive and hypoactive thyroid
Hyperactive and hypoactive thyroid
Overview:
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones, leading to an accelerated metabolism. This condition can result from several causes, including Graves' disease, thyroid nodules, or inflammation of the thyroid.
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, resulting in a slowed metabolism. This condition can be caused by autoimmune diseases (like Hashimoto's thyroiditis), certain medications, or surgical removal of the thyroid.
Symptoms:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight gain
- Sensitivity to cold
- Dry skin and hair loss
- Unintentional weight loss
- Increased heart rate or palpitations
- Anxiety and irritability
Treatments/Procedures:
Treatment may involve:
- Medications: Antithyroid drugs to reduce hormone production.
- Radioactive Iodine Therapy: Destroys overactive thyroid cells.
- Surgery: In cases where other treatments are ineffective, partial or total thyroidectomy may be necessary.
- Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy: Synthetic thyroid hormones (levothyroxine) to normalize hormone levels and alleviate symptoms.
Thyroid and parathyroid abnormalities
Thyroid and parathyroid abnormalities
Overview:
Thyroid and parathyroid abnormalities encompass a range of disorders affecting the thyroid and parathyroid glands, which play crucial roles in regulating metabolism, calcium levels, and overall endocrine function.
Symptoms:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight gain
- Sensitivity to cold
- Dry skin and hair loss
- Constipation
- Depression
- Slow heart rate
- Muscle aches
Procedure:
Treatment options vary based on the specific condition and may include:
- Medications: Hormone replacement therapy for hypothyroidism or antithyroid medications for hyperthyroidism.
- Surgery: In cases of nodules or cancers, surgical intervention may be necessary.
- Monitoring: Regular follow-up to manage conditions and prevent complications.
Thyroid cancers
Thyroid cancers
Overview:
Thyroid cancer consists of an abnormal growth and division of cells in the thyroid gland, located below the Adam’s apple. The four types of thyroid cancer include papillary (most common and least aggressive), follicular, medullary, and anaplastic (rarest and most aggressive).
Symptoms:
- Lump on neck
- Voice changes, such as hoarseness
- Swollen lymph nodes in neck
- Throat and neck pain
Treatments/Procedures:
Treatment for thyroid cancer treatment depends on the type of type of cancer. The following symptoms and procedures are categorized by thyroid cancer type:
Papillary and Follicular
- Total thyroidectomy (removal of thyroid)
- Lobectomy (partial thyroid removal)
- Radioactive iodine therapy
- Thyroid replacement therapy
Medullary
- Total thyroidectomy (removal of thyroid)
- Lymph node dissection
- Medication
- Genetic testing and management (if inherited)
Anaplastic
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Medication
- Palliative care (if necessary)
Salivary Gland Disorders (Laryngology)
Mumps
Mumps
Overview:
Mumps is a contagious viral infection primarily affecting the parotid salivary glands, leading to painful swelling and discomfort. Thanks to widespread vaccination, mumps is less common today, but it remains important to understand the condition and its management.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of mumps typically appear 16-18 days after exposure to the virus and may include:
- Swollen and Painful Glands: The hallmark of mumps is swelling of the parotid glands, which can cause significant discomfort.
- Fever: Mild to moderate fever is common.
- Headache and Muscle Aches: General discomfort and muscle pain may accompany the illness.
- Fatigue and Loss of Appetite: Feelings of tiredness and a reduced appetite are also common.
Treatment:
There is no specific antiviral treatment for mumps. Our management approach focuses on relieving symptoms and includes:
- Supportive Care: Pain relievers and fever reducers can help alleviate discomfort and manage fever.
- Hydration and Rest: Staying well-hydrated and resting are crucial for recovery.
- Warm or Cold Compresses: Applying compresses to the swollen glands can help reduce pain and swelling.
Sialadenitis
Sialadenitis
Overview:
Sialadenitis is an inflammation or infection of the salivary glands that can cause significant discomfort and health issues.
Symptoms:
Common symptoms of sialadenitis include:
- Pain and swelling in the affected gland, which may worsen with eating
- Redness and tenderness over the gland
- Dry mouth or a bad taste in the mouth
- Fever and chills
- Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing in severe cases
Treatment:
Treatment for sialadenitis is tailored to the cause and severity of the condition and may include:
- Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is present, antibiotics will be prescribed to target the specific bacteria causing the infection.
- Hydration and Warm Compresses: Increasing fluid intake and applying warm compresses can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Massage and Sialogogues: Gentle massage of the affected gland and medications to stimulate saliva flow can help clear any blockages and alleviate symptoms.
- Drainage Procedures: In cases where an abscess forms, a minor surgical procedure may be necessary to drain the pus and relieve pressure.
Sialolithiasis
Sialolithiasis
Overview:
Sialolithiasis, commonly known as salivary stones, is a condition where calcified deposits form within the salivary glands or their ducts. These stones can block the flow of saliva, leading to pain, swelling, and discomfort.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of sialolithiasis can vary depending on the size and location of the stone, and may include:
- Pain and swelling in the affected gland, especially when eating
- Dry mouth or a metallic taste
- Difficulty swallowing or opening the mouth
- Fever or a general feeling of illness in severe cases
Treatment:
Treatment for sialolithiasis depends on the size and location of the stone, and may involve:
- Hydration and Massage: Increasing fluid intake and massaging the gland can help dislodge small stones.
- Medications: Pain relievers and medications to stimulate saliva flow can alleviate symptoms.
- Stone Removal: In some cases, we may perform minor surgical procedures or use techniques to remove or break up the stones using minimally invasive endoscopic techniques.
- Surgical Intervention: For larger or more persistent stones, a minor surgical procedure may be necessary to extract the stone.
Voice (Laryngology) Conditions
Laryngitis
Laryngitis
Overview:
Laryngitis is the inflammation of the larynx (voice box) that often leads to changes in voice quality, including hoarseness or loss of voice. This condition can be acute or chronic and is usually caused by infections, irritants, or vocal strain.
Symptoms:
- Hoarseness or loss of voice
- Sore throat
- Dry cough
- Difficulty swallowing
- A feeling of a lump in the throat
Treatments/Procedures:
Treatment for laryngitis depends on the underlying cause:
- Resting the Voice: Reducing talking and whispering can help the vocal cords heal.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to keep the throat moist.
- Humidifiers: Adding moisture to the air can relieve irritation.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers for discomfort, and in cases of bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.
- Managing Reflux: Lifestyle changes and medications to address GERD if applicable.
Vocal Nodules
Vocal Nodules
Overview:
Vocal nodules, often referred to as "singer's nodules," are small, benign growths that develop on the vocal cords due to repetitive stress or strain. They are commonly found in individuals who use their voices frequently, such as singers, teachers, and public speakers. These nodules can interfere with normal vocal function and lead to changes in voice quality.
Symptoms:
- Hoarseness or a raspy voice
- Vocal fatigue or strain
- A breathy quality to the voice
- Difficulty hitting high notes or changes in pitch
- A sensation of something being stuck in the throat
Treatments/Procedures:
Treatment for vocal nodules may include:
- Voice Rest: Reducing or eliminating voice use to allow the vocal cords to heal.
- Voice Therapy: Working with a speech-language pathologist to learn proper vocal techniques and reduce strain.
- Hydration: Staying well-hydrated to keep the vocal cords moist.
- Avoiding Irritants: Steering clear of smoke, allergens, and other irritants that can worsen symptoms.
Vocal Polyps
Vocal Polyps
Overview:
Vocal polyps are soft, fluid-filled growths that develop on the vocal cords, often because of vocal strain or irritation. These benign lesions can vary in size and shape and can significantly affect voice quality.
Symptoms:
- Hoarseness or a breathy voice
- Changes in pitch or volume
- Vocal fatigue or strain
- A sensation of a lump in the throat
- Difficulty with high notes or vocal range
Treatments/Procedures:
Treatment for vocal polyps may include:
- Voice Rest: Reducing vocal use to allow the vocal cords to heal.
- Voice Therapy: Working with a speech-language pathologist to improve vocal techniques and reduce strain.
- Hydration: Staying well-hydrated to keep the vocal cords moist.
- Avoiding Irritants: Reducing exposure to smoking, allergens, and other irritants.
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Your Care Team
Each provider may treat different conditions. Click on a profile to see their areas of specialty.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
When should I see a doctor for throat or neck issues?
You should see a doctor if you experience persistent pain, difficulty swallowing, changes in your voice, or swelling in your neck that lasts more than a few days.
-
What specialists treat throat and neck conditions?
Otolaryngologists (ENT specialists), speech-language pathologists, and oncologists may be involved in the diagnosis and treatment of throat and neck conditions.
-
How can I schedule an appointment?
To schedule an appointment, please contact the clinic.
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