The following content is created in consultation with Cooper University Health Care. It does not reflect the work or opinions of NBC Philadelphia's editorial staff. To learn more about Cooper University Health Care, visit cooperhealth.org.
Our ears, nose and throat are body parts we tend to take for granted. But ask anyone suffering from hearing loss, acute laryngitis or sleep apnea and they’ll tell you just how vital these organs are to everyday life. In fact, they often perform duties far beyond their most common functions.
Luckily, there are many things you can do to help keep your ears, nose and throat in good shape. That’s why the experts at Cooper University Health Care are hosting Caring For Your Ears, Nose & Throat, an exclusive, free webinar taking place on May 28, 2015 at 12:30 p.m. on NBC10.com. Lead by Dr. Nadir Ahmad, Head, Division of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (ENT) at Cooper University Health Care, the free webinar covers various topics such as sleep apnea, snoring, sinus infections and professional voice. Cooper differentiates itself through the tertiarty care that is provided patients. Cooper ENT specialists have a high level of accademic medical training, with very specific specialities. The team approach to care translates into better health outcomes.
But you don’t need to wait for the webinar to get a head start on caring for your ears nose and throat. Follow these simple tips and you’ll be in good shape through allergy season.
Ears
- Clean your ears carefully with a washcloth rather than Q-tips, which may injure your ear canal or eardrum.
- Ear wax is ok! It’s your body’s way of cleaning your ears. If you experience significant buildup, consult a doctor to have it removed.
- If you experience ringing, balance problems or drainage from your ears, consult your doctor.
- Wear hearing protection when exposed to loud noise, be it power tools at home or live music at a club.
- Avoid earbud headphones and loud stereos.
- Always apply sunscreen to your ears when outdoors.
- When flying, continue to swallow and yawn to equalize pressure in your ears as you ascend and descend.
Nose
- Control your sinuses with cooler temperatures, which are better for the membranes in your nose (heat dries them out).
- Use a humidifier in your bedroom from October through April and control the levels so that you’re not promoting mold growth or dust mites, which can each trigger a host of sinus issues.
- Hydrate all day with water to keep sinuses functioning well.
- Stay away from irritants like cigarettes, cleaning products and other fumes.
- If you suffer from sleep apnea, avoid sleeping on your back, smoking or drinking alcohol. Additionally, eat healthy and — if need be — get your weight down to optimal levels.
Throat
- Insulate your throat when you go outside in cold weather by bundling up with a scarf.
- Hydrate throughout the day (6-8 glasses of water) and drink tea with honey, too. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dry out your throat.
- Gargle with salt water to help disinfect your throat.
- Avoid vocal extremes like shouting of whispering.
For more practical tips, from keeping your professional voice healthy to getting the best night sleep for you and your partner, join Cooper University Health Care's Caring For Your Ears, Nose & Throat on May 28. Register here.
