Winter weather in Texas isn’t as cold as in many of the northern states, but you may wonder if the cooler temperatures can improve your seasonal allergies. Since the sticky hot summer air has finally cooled off, you may hope that you’ll finally find some allergy relief.

Unfortunately, cold weather isn’t always a friend to your ears, nose, and throat. Keep reading to learn how a temperature change can trigger your allergies, and how you can get help from your Edinburg ENT doctor to fight off those pesky allergies!

Can Cooler Texas Weather Affect Your Allergies? 

When the outside temperature drops, the change can be hard on your lungs and lead to allergic reactions, including worsening congestion, runny nose, wheezing, and coughing fits.

But staying indoors all the time won’t help your allergies, either. Since it’s cooler outside, many people stay inside more often in the winter. You’re most likely keeping the windows closed and maybe turning the heat up a little higher. This creates a space with less fresh air and more dry heat. Staying indoors all the time in the winter can also make allergies to dust and pet dander worse.

Wet or Dry: Do Air Moisture Levels Matter?

Sometimes Texas winter days are really dry, which isn't the best for allergy sufferers. The cold, dry air can suck the moisture out of your nasal passages, lips, and skin, making it easier for allergens to settle into your lungs.

On the other hand, too much moisture in the air also isn’t good. If the Texas winter weather is too wet, it can encourage mold and dust mites to grow. The air moisture levels have to be just right to keep your allergies from reacting. However, that’s not always something we can control.

Could You Be Allergic to Cold Weather?

Being allergic to the cold is a real thing, and it’s called cold urticaria! The more common form causes itchy hives, swelling, and redness on the skin after exposure to cold temperatures. However, it needs to be under 39 degrees Fahrenheit for an allergic reaction to happen. Reactions usually pop up within a few minutes after warming the skin and only last a couple of hours.

The Glatz Group’s 5 Tips for Winter Allergy Relief! 

Texas is great if you want to avoid having to deal with cold northern winters! However, you may not be able to completely escape your allergies just because the air is a bit warmer. But the Glatz Group has your back! There are a few things you can do to get winter allergy relief:

  1. Take your allergy medication early, before your symptoms get too bad
  2. Keep your home clean and minimize dust build-up
  3. Bathe pets weekly
  4. Use HEPA filters
  5. Get the right diagnosis from your ENT doctor

Knowing exactly what you’re allergic to can help you understand how you can protect your ears, nose, and throat. If you’re allergic to dust mites or pet dander, then you’ll know you need to dust often or bathe your furry friends more.

Reach out to our compassionate and experienced team at the Glatz Group to find out how you can fight off your allergy foes and still enjoy the cooler Texas weather!

Do you need allergy relief during these cooler winter months? Contact our team at the Glatz Group to learn more about winter allergy relief! 

Get Allergy Relief Today!

If your loved ones' sneezes are enough to blow over the Christmas tree, they are probably looking for some relief! The cold and dry winter air can cause allergy flare-ups, and you don’t want anyone miserable during the holiday season. Give your friends and family a gift they can actually use for sinus relief this Christmas!   

On the other hand, maybe your loved one’s allergies are under control, but you don’t want to give them a gift that could further irritate their ear, nose, or throat. Keep reading to find the ultimate list of gift ideas for anyone with allergies on your Christmas list!  

10 Holiday Gift Ideas to Prevent Allergies or Provide Relief!

Your loved ones will love the extra thought and care you’ve put into giving them a gift they can use for allergy relief! 

  1. Hypo-allergenic mattress cover, pillow case, and bedding
  2. Vacuum with a HEPA filter
  3. Air purifier with a HEPA filter
  4. Allergy-friendly cleaners without chemicals
  5. Humidifier or dehumidifier
  6. Anti-dust masks
  7. Sinus relief heat mask
  8. House cleaning service
  9. Steam inhaler
  10. Allergy medicine case

You could also build a sinus relief holiday gift basket! Include tissues, nasal spray, decongestant tablets, allergy relief teas, and a gift card to their favorite pharmacy. Or, if they already have all the vacuums, air purifiers, and humidifiers they need, consider gifting your loved ones extra filters, as they can get a little expensive.

3 Gifts You Should Avoid Giving Loved Ones With Allergies! 

The one thing you don’t want to do this holiday season is to give your loved ones a thoughtful gift and then watch them suffer with a fit of sneezes. Protect your friends and family this Christmas by avoiding these gifts.

If your friends and family have a specific brand they know is safe, buy from them! Always ask before you buy a questionable product to avoid making your loved ones sick.

Allergies Getting in the Way of Holiday Plans? The Glatz Group Can Help! 

Allergies can really bring down the holiday spirit! Spending time sniffling, laying in bed, or sitting in front of the humidifier trying to find allergy relief isn’t the best way to spend the Christmas season. 

Bring your loved ones with allergies to the Glatz Group to help them find relief this yea. With our experienced team, your friends and family can find the best solution to fighting allergies and get back to enjoying the things that matter most! 

Stop allergies from messing up your plans this holiday season! Visit Glatz Group to find out how we can help your loved ones find relief today! 

Say No to Allergies!

Now that summer has arrived, you may be hoping for some sinus relief after the colder winter months! Unfortunately, summer weather can still cause issues with your sinuses, despite being warmer. The changes in temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure can affect your sinuses, leaving you with pain or pressure in your eyes, cheeks, and forehead.

When humidity or dry heat hits, you may experience sinus pressure or pain. An ENT can help you learn how to keep sinus pain away this summer! Keep reading to learn how your sinuses can be harmed by humidity or dry heat and get some tips to avoid sinus pain this summer.

How Can Summer Heat Affect Your Sinuses?

Your sinuses are covered by a thin lining called the mucous membrane, which itself is covered by tiny particles called cilia. The cilia keep your sinuses clean and push out mucus. However, they can also be vulnerable to changes in the weather.

High Humidity

When the humidity is high, the extra moisture in the air causes the cilia in your nose not to work as they should, which can cause you to have extra mucus. This excess mucus can drain into your throat, leading to coughs or sore throats, or can drain into your ears, causing them to clog, feel tender, or become infected.  

Dry Heat

Cilia in your body are affected by dry heat as well. With less moisture in the air, there is less moisture in your nose, which causes the mucus to dry up and become thicker and more likely to clog your sinuses. Not only is this uncomfortable, but dry mucus can lead to swelling, nosebleeds, and infections.

5 Ways to Avoid Sinus Harm From Humidity

When the humidity rises, you can take action to help your sinuses. Follow these five tips to prevent sinus pain from humidity this summer.

5 Ways to Avoid Sinus Harm From Dry Heat

You may not be able to control the dryness of the summer day, but you can do some things to help keep your sinuses moist. During the dry summer, you can find relief for your sinuses by following these five tips.

Find Sinus Relief From the Glatz Group at Valley Ear, Nose, and Throat

Summer is supposed to be a great time for fun and adventures, but sometimes you may experience sinus pain from the humidity or dry heat. Don’t let the weather ruin your summer! 

Dr. Glatz and his team of sinus experts are here to help you with your sinus troubles so that you can get back to your summer plans! 

If you’re struggling with sinus pain this summer, reach out to Dr. Glatz and his team today to find the sinus relief you need!

Schedule Your Relief!

If you’ve experienced post-nasal drip firsthand, you know just how uncomfortable it can be. To properly treat post-nasal drip, your doctor will usually need to first determine its  cause. Learning the possible causes of your post-nasal drip can help you identify what is behind that irritating feeling in the back of your throat.

Read on to learn about the five primary causes of post-nasal drip, as well as how your McAllen sinus specialists can help you find relief with treatment.

What is Post-Nasal Drip?

Mucus plays an important role in your body: it helps trap and destroy bacteria and viruses before they cause an infection. Normally, your mucus goes unnoticed because it mixes with your saliva and smoothly drips down the back of your throat where it can be swallowed.

If your body starts producing greater amounts of mucus, or if your mucus becomes thicker, you may start to notice it gathering at the back of your throat. That feeling of mucus building up or sliding down the back of the throat or nose is referred to as post-nasal drip.

What are the Main Causes of Post-Nasal Drip?

Post-nasal drip can be caused by several factors, including sickness, medical conditions, weather changes, and certain foods and medications. Getting to the root cause of your post-nasal drip can help your doctor find the best treatment plan. Below, you can read about the five most common causes of post-nasal drip.

1. Sickness

The common cold, the flu, allergies, and sinus infections can all contribute to post-nasal drip. When your body becomes sick, it triggers excess mucus production which may cause you to notice that mucus build-up in the back of your throat.

2. Medical Conditions

There are some medical conditions that can cause a post-nasal drip, the most common being a deviated septum. A deviated septum is a malformation in the wall separating the two nostrils that can affect the flow of air through the sinuses.

3. Weather Changes

Changes in weather can be another cause of post-nasal drip. When the temperature drops or the air becomes dry, your body may start producing more or thicker mucus in order to adapt.

4. Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can be a trigger for mucus flow, and can cause extra mucus to run down the back of your throat, resulting in a post-nasal drip. 

5. Certain Medications

Certain blood pressure medications can cause an increase in mucus production. The increased estrogen levels caused by the use of birth control pills can also contribute to post-nasal drip.

Identifying the cause of your post-nasal drip can help your doctor decide what treatment plan will work best for you. Keeping track of the medication you take, the foods you eat, and environmental conditions you are in can also help your doctor determine the cause.

Treating Post-Nasal Drip with Glatz Group

To find the right treatment for your post-nasal, you and your doctor will first need to identify what's causing it. If you're suffering from a post-nasal drip that won't go away, visit your ENT to learn about the cause of your condition and the treatment most likely to give you relief. While cases may vary, some of the most common post-nasal drip treatments include the following:

Your doctor will help you choose the right method for addressing your post-nasal drip, but that might not include medication. Another solution can be to thin out your mucus by drinking more water, using saline nasal sprays, or turning on a humidifier in your home.

Find the Cause of Your Post-Nasal Drip With the Help of Your Sinus Relief Specialists at Glatz Valley ENT!

Post-nasal drip can be uncomfortable to deal with, but treatment can be found once your doctor has identified the cause. If you suspect that you are suffering from post-nasal drip, call your doctor to get to the root of the issue.

Schedule an appointment with your McAllen sinus specialists at the Glatz Group today to find out what’s causing your post-nasal drip. 

Make an appointment today to get the proper treatment for your post-nasal drip.

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Everyone knows that the ear is responsible for detecting sounds, and plenty of people know that the ears contribute to our sense of balance. Despite that, most of us tend to take our ears for granted in our everyday lives.

Unfortunately, there are plenty of problems that can seriously impact our ears’ function. To avoid, prevent, or delay the development of such issues, it’s important that each of us is aware of some of the common signs and effects. Below, you can read about some of the most common problems affecting the ears from your McAllen sinus specialists at Glatz Group of Valley ENT.

1. Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is one of the most common problems that brings people in to visit their ENT. If you’re experiencing a loss of hearing, seeing a doctor in a timely manner could make a big difference in your recovery. Not all hearing loss is experienced the same, and different types require different treatments. There are three main types of hearing loss

Causes of Hearing Loss

There are many conditions and factors that contribute to hearing loss. Determining the cause will allow your doctor to get to the root of your hearing loss and find the proper treatment for your case. Some common causes include the following:

For many, hearing loss can be treated with rehab therapy or medical devices, but for others, surgery will be required. If you suspect you are suffering from hearing loss, contact your ear, nose, and throat doctor to get a hearing test and a complete physical exam.

2. Ear Infections

Ear infections are most common in infants, but can also affect adults. These infections occur in the middle ear and are caused by a buildup of fluid and mucus. Ear infections often affect sufferers in the following ways:

To diagnose an ear infection, your ENT will use an otoscope to examine the inside of your ear. If your doctor determines that you have an ear infection, your provider will either let it heal on its own or prescribe antibiotics and pain relievers, depending on the severity of the case.

3. Tinnitus

Tinnitus is experienced by sufferers as a ringing, roaring, clicking, hissing, or buzzing sound inside the ear. Cases of tinnitus vary between from person to person and can range from loud and high pitched to soft and low pitched. Those with tinnitus often suffer from trouble hearing, working, and sleeping. Tinnitus is often caused by the following issues and circumstances:

The treatment that your ENT chooses will depend on the severity of your case, but common solutions may include prescription medication, hearing aids, sound-masking devices, or different tips for how to function and cope with the noise.

4. Meniere’s Disease

Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that causes tinnitus, extreme dizziness, periodic hearing loss, and ear pain and pressure. Those suffering from Meniere’s disease often describe having short spurts of dizziness, tinnitus, or muffled hearing. In severe cases, “drop attacks” will occur in which the sufferer's dizziness is so intense that it causes the individual to lose their balance and fall to the ground.

Unfortunately, the precise cause of Meniere’s is unknown, but many scientists believe it is caused by increased fluid levels or the mixing of fluids within the canals of the inner ear. Because the exact cause of the disease is unknown, ENTs usually diagnose this disease based on symptoms and a physical exam.

Treatment for Meniere’s won’t cure it, but it will help alleviate the symptoms you experience. Your ENT may recommend taking certain medications to control dizziness, limiting the amount of salt you intake, or taking water pills. You may potentially be eligible for an outer ear device that sends air pulses to the middle ear. If none of these treatments are successful, surgery may be required.

Solve Your Ear Problems When You Visit Your Sinus Specialists at Glatz Group of Valley ENT!

If you’ve experienced any of the symptoms associated with these common ear problems, it may be time to schedule an exam with your McAllen sinus relief specialists.

Don’t wait to get relief and take your life back. Make an appointment today to get a hearing assessment and discuss your treatment options with the team at Glatz Group.

If you are struggling with any of these common ear problems, your McAllen sinus specialists at Glatz Group would be happy to help.

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According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), five out of six children will have at least one ear infection before their third birthday. 

Unfortunately, ear infections are a common occurrence. If you were to ask almost anyone, they would more than likely tell you that they have had an ear infection at least once in their life. 

While chronic ear infections may be common in children, that shouldn’t mean they have to suffer through them. Today, your McAllen sinus relief specialists at the Glatz Group of Valley ENT will tell you all there is to know about treating your child’s chronic ear infections.

What Causes an Ear Infection?

An ear infection happens when there is a buildup of fluid behind the middle ear. When the Eustachian tube does not drain properly, it produces bacteria and inflammation that results in the ear infection.

Why Is It Common in Children?

Ear infections can happen to adults and children, however, they more frequently afflict children. One reason being that children are smaller and so are their Eustachian tubes. The Eustachian tube is responsible for draining fluid out of the inner ear. When they get swollen, it makes it very difficult for fluid to drain, therefore causing a buildup and an infection. 

Another reason that children are more susceptible to ear infections is because of their developing immune systems. Due to the fact that their immune systems are not as strong as an adult’s, it is harder for them to fight off an infection each time.

Signs of a Chronic Ear Infection 

While signs may vary from child to child, some common symptoms include:

Treatment

If the ear infections keep coming back, your ENT may give you antibiotics and wait a couple of months to see if the infection clears up. If that does not help, the next step would be putting in tubes to assist with the drainage of fluid. Once the tubes are in, your child will have several follow-up visits until the tubes eventually fall out on their own.

Once all of that is done, and if the ear infections keep occurring, the next step would be a surgical procedure to remove the adenoids. The adenoids are two pieces of tissue located near the Eustachian tubes. When this tissue gets swollen, it can block the passageway of fluid through the tubes.

What Happens if Chronic Ear Infections are Left Untreated?

If your child’s chronic ear infections go untreated, it could start affecting them in other ways. Every situation and child is different, but possible damage could include:

What to Do if You Suspect Your Child Has Chronic Ear Infections

If your child is exhibiting any of the signs or symptoms listed above, reach out to your local ENT to get an examination or to rule out any other possible infections.
If you notice that the ear infections are happening more frequently or the infections are not going away, your sinus doctor will take the necessary steps to treat your child and answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Don’t Let Ear Infections Become a Chronic Problem in Your Household—Visit the Glatz Group of Valley ENT today!

Watching your child cope with an ear infection is already difficult enough without it becoming a chronic issue. Your sinus relief specialists in McAllen, TX, are here to help and put any worries you may have at ease.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

A sore throat is by far one of the most unpleasant parts of getting sick. Luckily, there are several home remedies you can try on your own.

Today, your experienced McAllen sinus relief specialists at the Glatz Group of Valley ENT will share six of the most effective home remedies for a sore throat, as well as those that do not work as advertised.

Try These From Home the Next Time You Suspect a Sore Throat

1. Warm and cold fluids

Enjoy some warm drinks like tea or chicken soup. Or give cold liquids, including ice water or popsicles, a try.

Liquids help clear out mucous membranes, maintain the flow of things, and prevent sinus infections. Warm temperatures may also minimize coughs by soothing the back of the throat. Try both temperatures out to determine which is ideal for you.

2. Gargling

Dissolve ½ teaspoon of salt — or a relative portion of baking soda — into a glass of warm water. Gargle this every three hours for a sore throat remedy that is completely natural. Make sure you do not swallow it.

Salt water can help decrease swelling and irritation in your throat. Baking soda also tones down the throat pain by breaking up the built-up mucus. It can in turn help with the throat irritation that comes from acid reflux.

3. Over-the-counter antihistamines and pain relievers

An antihistamine may moderate or alleviate throat pain. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen are also good options to assist with pain that’s found a bit deeper in the glands and other neck regions.

Histamines are chemicals that give your immune system the strength to combat foreign substances. However, it is worth mentioning that sometimes they can be too much, triggering symptoms (e.g. congestion and post-nasal drip) that may cause a sore throat to feel even worse. Antihistamines can offset this overreaction.

4. Steam and humidity

Treat yourself to a hot shower. Once your bathroom gets really steamy, breathe it all in.
The steam from the hot shower loosens mucus and can provide moisture and relief to a sore throat.

5. Hot toddy

A hot toddy is a drink concoction made up of water, whiskey, honey, and lemon juice and served hot. Some people like to add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger.

Hot toddies have been shown to be extremely soothing. The following reasons are:

6. Rest

Don’t underestimate how much physical rest can help your body and voice. Keep in mind that lying flat can sometimes lead to swelling from a rise in pressure at the back of the throat. Instead, try creating a higher elevation for your bed or sitting propped up or in a chair to calm the pain and discomfort.

To Home Remedies for Sore Throat That Aren’t Recommended

Unfortunately, not all sore throat remedies are made equal. It is in your best interest to avoid the following remedies:

And avoid anything that may potentially irritate your throat, such as:

When To Be Seen by a Doctor for Throat Pain

Reach out to a doctor if you:

Kiss That Sore Throat Goodbye When You Visit the Glatz Group of Valley ENT

If after trying out these home remedies, your sore throat has worsened or persisted, don’t wait to book your appointment with our McAllen sinus doctor.

Don’t forget, when dealing with illnesses, an ounce of prevention is worthwhile. Wash your hands frequently. And if you do happen to get sick, it is highly recommended that you replace your toothbrush with one that is fresh and free of germs as soon as possible.

Schedule Your Appointment Today 

Managing a sinus infection can feel especially difficult throughout pregnancy.

Sinus infections are not an uncommon complication of having a cold or dealing with allergies and, unfortunately, they can lead to painful nasal congestion (rhinitis) along with other symptoms.

Experts have suggested that hormonal changes may play a part in rhinitis being brought out by pregnancy, which generally takes place during the second and third trimesters and goes away within two weeks of childbirth.

Regardless of the source of your sinus infection during pregnancy, it is critical to be familiar with how to alleviate symptoms in a non-threatening manner. Today, your team of McAllen sinus relief specialists at the Glatz Group of Valley ENT will demonstrate how to deal with a sinus infection while pregnant. 

Is the Fetus Affected?

A sinus infection by itself has a low chance of harming the developing fetus. It is worth noting, however, that in rare circumstances, symptoms can result in complications.

Being pregnant may also impact how severe the sinus infection symptoms are.

For instance, one study observed the effect that a pregnant woman’s body mass index (BMI) and stage of pregnancy could have on nasal congestion. The researchers discovered that both enhanced BMI and gestational age have a significant influence on the degree of nasal congestion throughout pregnancy.

They claim that women with gestational diabetes or several pregnancies (like twins or triplets) may be more at risk of getting pregnancy-induced rhinitis. This could be because of a rise in pregnancy hormones.

The researchers also state that recurring nasal congestion could come with risks for a fetus’ development and growth due to a gradual drop of oxygen.

Complications like these are quite rare, and with the right treatment, the threats to the fetus are rather low.

Another study came to find that nasal congestion from allergies had nothing to do with birth outcomes. In fact, there was a less frequent occurrence of congenital abnormalities in the babies of women who had faced these symptoms.

Safe Options for Treatment

While there may be temptations to go for the common over-the-counter (OTC) medications for fast relief, some of these drugs could be dangerous, based on the period of the pregnancy.

A doctor might prescribe corticosteroids to handle nasal congestion, but only following the initial trimester.

It is highly recommended to avoid the following drugs when pregnant, although a few doctors may prescribe them at small dosages, particularly for those suffering from allergies:

Other effective OTC medications and home remedies are okay to take during pregnancy. A doctor can advise the most ideal treatment options for your unique needs.

At-Home Remedies

Potential home remedies that could help provide some relief from your symptoms include:

Symptoms

The most common symptom of a sinus infection, or sinusitis, is painful sensations or sensitivity in the nose and cheeks areas. 

An infection causes inflammation in the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities behind the cheekbones and forehead. The inflammation prevents mucus in the sinuses from draining properly, causing pain and pressure.

Other symptoms of a sinus infection are the following:

When You Should See a Doctor

In many situations, people can take care of a sinus infection with remedies from home.

However, if a pregnant woman notices the following symptoms, it is in their best interest to visit their doctor immediately:

A doctor may prescribe medication to get rid of the infection, which could affect the woman’s overall health and pregnancy trimester.

Have a healthier pregnancy by treating your sinus infection with the Glatz Group of Valley ENT.

Getting sick is already a drag on its own, but getting sick during pregnancy can be especially tough, as you may not be able to take your average OTC medications.

In some cases, a doctor can provide medication with little risk to the developing fetus.

If the following home remedies do not help resolve your sinusitis symptoms, you may wish to consider setting up an appointment with us. We want to make sure your pregnancy is a healthy one for you and your baby.

Schedule Your Appointment Today 

While flu and cold season may have passed, many people are still suffering from allergies that cause them to sneeze constantly. 

Sneezing is a reflex we simply cannot control and can actually occur in several different forms. Your McAllen sinus specialists at the Glatz Group of Valley ENT would like to share some fun facts about sneezing.

How Fast Does a Sneeze Travel?

Sneezes can travel up to 100 mph but are generally between 30 to 35 mph. Unfortunately, the speed at which they travel means germ-ridden sneezes can cover a lot of ground.

Sneezes generally spread in about a five-foot radius, but a powerful sneeze can land as far as 30 feet away.

The Reason We Sneeze

The biological reboot signaled by the pressure force of a sneeze is similar to a computer quickly rebooting. 

Sneezes reset the setting within our nasal passageways, helping to remove the contaminants in our airways. The microscopic hairs that line our nasal cavities help to moderate sneezes.  

Photic Sneeze Reflex

Did you know sunlight makes us sneeze?

A reaction referred to as a photic sneeze reflex causes some people to sneeze because of sunlight. Though not fully understood, it’s believed that the signal the brain receives to shrink the pupils when near bright light may run into the message the brain is given to sneeze. 

Why We Close Our Eyes When We Sneeze

There’s little you can do to keep your eyes open if you’re about to sneeze. The buildup to a sneeze includes closing the eyes as part of the message the brain gets.

Does Your Heart Skip a Beat When Sneezing?

Your heart actually doesn’t skip a beat when you sneeze, contrary to popular belief. The stimulation of the vagus nerve that takes place during a sneeze is a result of the deep breath most people take prior to sneezing.

Holding In a Sneeze

It is best to stop attempting to stuff that sneeze back in. While it is rare, trying to hold a sneeze can actually result in serious injuries.

Stopping a Sneeze

We happen to be capable of stopping the urge to sneeze. 

There are a couple tricks that may cause a sneeze to pass if you’re getting a light tingle. Rubbing your nose, pressing on your upper lip under your nose, or forcing a big, deep breath out your nose can help stop a sneeze.

Why We Usually Sneeze in Twos and Threes

There are times when particles that are stuck in the nasal passageways need some extra help getting removed from your airways. More often than you would assume, it takes more than one attempt to get all of those irritants out, which is why we generally sneeze several times in a row.

Get nose & sinus relief with the help of the Glatz Group of Valley ENT.

Our McAllen ENT specialists are ready to help with all your sinus relief needs. While sneezing is common, it can be an indicator of another problem.

If you are dealing with allergies, reach out to our ENT office in McAllen to diagnose the issue and help you find the relief you deserve.

Set Up Your Appointment Today

According to Medical News Today, it is estimated that the number of people over the age of 18 suffering from diabetes in the United States is approximately 30.2 million. Diabetes is a condition that can arise when your blood glucose, also known as blood sugar, is too high. If left untreated, the condition can cause strokes, heart attacks, nerve damage, and kidney failure, among other health issues.

Fortunately, it can be managed when caught early. 

Today, your trusted McAllen sinus relief specialists at the Glatz Group of Valley ENT will discuss diabetes and how it can be a risk factor for hearing loss. 

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that takes place when the pancreas is no longer able to properly make insulin. When the body lacks the right amount of insulin, it results in there being too much sugar in your bloodstream. 

When this occurs it can cause vision impairment, gum disease, fatigue, and foot ulcers.  

Types of Diabetes

Type 1, type 2, and gestational are the three main types of diabetes. 

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body fails to produce insulin. Type 1 diabetes impacts approximately 5-10% of those suffering from diabetes. Children, teens, and young adults are typically the ones diagnosed with type 1. There is no way to prevent type 1 diabetes and those who have it must take insulin daily. 

Type 2 Diabetes 

Type 2 diabetes appears when your body does not use insulin correctly, thus causing blood sugar to rise to an abnormal level. Roughly 90-95% of people with diabetes suffer from type 2 diabetes, which can be diagnosed in adults, children, teens, and young adults. 

The causes of type 2 diabetes vary but the most common variables include an unhealthy lifestyle, being overweight, family history, genetic factors, and even ethnicity. 

Gestational Diabetes 

Gestational diabetes shows up in pregnant women who have never had a history of diabetes. Gestational diabetes puts your baby at a greater risk for health issues, including obesity and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. 

Gestational diabetes often goes away after childbirth but can increase the risk of the mother developing type 2 diabetes in the future.  

Is Diabetes a Risk Factor for Hearing Loss?

Diabetes and hearing loss have been correlated. In a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health, it was shown that hearing loss is twice as common in those who suffer from diabetes than those who do not. 

Researchers believe that hearing loss presents itself in those who have diabetes because of the damage it inflicts to nerves and blood vessels. By not managing your diabetes, you become more susceptible to suffering from hearing loss. 

Signs of Hearing Loss

If you believe that you might be losing your hearing, it is important to know the signs so that you can begin seeking solutions to slow down or stop the issue:

How to Protect Your Hearing If You Have Diabetes 

When diagnosed with diabetes, it is especially imperative to do everything possible to protect your hearing. Some approaches include: 

If you or a loved one believe that you might be suffering from hearing loss due to diabetes, it is in your best interest to speak with your primary care doctor and a specialist that focuses on hearing problems. 

A hearing exam can be done to assess hearing loss. Once the test is completed you will be able to learn more about the condition and how it can be treated. 

Clear Up Your Ear, Nose, & Throat Problems with Glatz Group at Valley ENT

If you believe that you could potentially suffer from hearing loss due to diabetes, get in touch with Glatz Group today to get professional help from specialists you can count on. 

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