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September is Healthy Aging Month and Dr. Glatz believes the easiest way to achieve healthy aging is by following a few practical tips at home.

Let your trusted McAllen sinus relief specialists at Glatz Group of Valley ENT provide you with a few tips for healthy aging.

How to Age Healthily 

1. Eat Well

No matter your age, it is always important to eat well to keep your body healthy. By doing so, you will see a boost in your immune system, mood, and mental sharpness.

Dr. Glatz has implemented intermittent fasting into his lifestyle and has seen great results from it! 

Here’s what you need to know about intermittent fasting:

What Is Intermittent Fasting?

During intermittent fasting, you only eat during specific times of the day. Instead of focusing so much on what you eat, it is more on when you eat. According to Hopkins, fasting for a certain number of hours each day or eating just one meal a couple of days a week, can help your body burn fat.

Does Intermittent Fasting Provide Anti-Aging Benefits?

Fasting is focused on limiting your calorie intake. Studies on overweight adults have shown an increase in energy production and a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. 

However, fasting can be challenging due to the calorie intake being decreased by 30-40% each day. By intermittent fasting, you are still receiving the benefits listed above, but aren’t as restricted in your calories.

If you’re wanting to give this a try, but don’t know where to start, here are a few examples of different intermittent fasting plans:

Every method is different to accommodate varying lifestyles. It is important for your overall body health that you find the plan that best fits your existing schedule. 

2. Exercise

Regular exercise provides many benefits to your overall body health. Some of these benefits include:

One of the most beneficial exercises you can do is High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). By doing a HIIT workout, you will burn more calories in a shorter amount of time. These workouts consist of short and intense exercises followed by a period of rest. The benefits of HIIT workouts include:

3. Sleep Well

Getting a good night’s sleep is key to healthy aging as it allows your body and mind to recover from a full day’s work. Benefits of sleeping well include:

Many issues can arise that cause disruptions in your sleep. It is important to pinpoint these and find a solution so you can get the quality sleep your body needs. Some disruptions include:

Start Healthy Aging Month Right By Giving Dr. Glatz’s Tips A Try!

The thought of aging can be very overwhelming, but with Dr. Glatz’s 3 simple tips, you’ll be feeling healthier and happier in no time.

Schedule An Appointment Today

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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

If you’ve ever experienced the burning pain in your chest that comes along with acid reflux, then you know how uncomfortable it is to suffer from and still try to live a normal life.

Today, your committed McAllen sinus relief specialists at the Glatz Group of Valley ENT will highlight what you should know about acid reflux and how to get rid of it.

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a chronic disease caused when the sphincter muscle at the lower end of your esophagus relaxes at the wrong time. This allows stomach acid to back up into your esophagus, causing heartburn that can sometimes feel like a heart attack.

Poor clearance of food or acid from the esophagus, too much acid in the stomach, and delayed stomach emptying can all be factors that lead to acid reflux.

Who Is At Risk for Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux can affect people of all ages, including infants. The only people who have a higher risk of developing acid reflux are those with asthma.

What Are the Symptoms of Acid Reflux?

If you have nighttime acid reflux, you could also experience:

Acid reflux can also contribute to sinusitis. This is due to the fact that the acid can travel up to your nose and sinuses. This acid causes inflammation in the nose and sinus linings.

How to Get Rid of Acid Reflux

If you’re looking for a way to relieve acid reflux without medication, you could try the following:

When the stomach is full, there can be more reflux in the esophagus. If you can, eat small meals frequently throughout the day rather than three large meals.

Certain foods like mint, fatty foods, spicy foods, tomatoes, onions, garlic, coffee, tea, alcohol, and chocolate can all trigger acid reflux. It is in your best interest to avoid these foods if you are experiencing acid reflux symptoms.

Carbonated beverages are responsible for making you burp, meaning that they send acid into the esophagus. If you are suffering from acid reflux, make sure to drink water.

Gravity helps keep acid in the stomach so it is highly advised not to lay down after eating. Stay standing or even sitting up instead.

Nicotine can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, causing acid reflux.

If none of these solutions help relieve your acid reflux, it is important to seek medical care. Your primary care doctor will then refer you to an ENT. ENTs have extensive experience with diagnosing acid reflux.

Once in the office, your specialist will use an endoscopy to diagnose your condition. After providing a diagnosis, your ENT will offer a treatment plan to treat your acid reflux.

Stop your acid reflux symptoms today by seeing the Glatz Group of Valley ENT.

No one wants to live with heartburn every day. Get treated by the specialists at the Glatz Group of Valley ENT today.

Book 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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If your sinus symptoms get worse as the temperatures drop, there’s one thing that’s certain -- it’s not just in your head.

While sinus inflammation most commonly takes place during the spring and summer months because of seasonal allergies, there are plenty of people who suffer from sinusitis year-round. For certain individuals, sinus symptoms actually increase during fall and winter.

There are several factors that can aggravate the sinuses and trigger winter sinus flare-ups. Cold weather usually means drier air, both outside and indoors, due to heating in the home. Breathing in drier air can make your nose dry out and develop extra mucus, which can thicken and result in congestion and inflammation.

You can, however, take steps to help keep your sinuses in check this winter.

Today, your local McAllen certified physician assistant, Jonathan Lerma, and his loyal team of sinus relief specialists at the Glatz Group of Valley ENT will list 5 strategies to help you avoid winter sinus flare-ups and protect your sinuses.

Top 5 Tips for Protecting Your Sinuses This Winter

1. Vacuum and Dust On a Regular Basis

Indoor allergens such as dust and pet dander are common triggers of sinusitis. Rugs, blankets, upholstered furniture, and winter bedding tend to collect extra allergens, which can make your sinusitis worse. These triggers may intensify during the winter months since there may be less air circulation in your home and pets may be spending more time indoors. 

Vacuuming and dusting with a damp cloth frequently can help lessen your exposure to allergens and other sinus-irritating particles. It can also be beneficial to make sure your winter bedding is dry and dust-free.

2. Improve Your Home’s Air Quality 

One of the most important steps you can take to help ease winter sinus issues is to make sure the air you’re breathing is of the best quality possible.

Using a humidifier will help fight the dry air that comes from heating your home and to keep your sinuses moist. Also, running a HEPA air filter to eliminate irritating particles and allergens in the air can help your whole respiratory system function better.

3. Get Steamy 

Taking a hot shower and using steam is a simple, effective remedy that can help relieve sinus pressure and headaches. The steam from a hot shower may support the thinning and loosening of mucus and congestion, allowing for better drainage.

The combination of moisture and warmth can soothe the irritation of the nasal passageways, and in particular cases, may help clear up a stuffy nose, at least temporarily.

4. Keep Your Nose Clean

Using a neti pot or other nasal irrigation tool is a great way to help alleviate sinus congestion. With regular use, it can help to keep sinus symptoms at bay while maintaining sinus health.

These instruments work by flushing out clogged sinuses and nasal openings with a saline solution. Rinsing daily helps to keep the nose and sinuses clear and moisturized, while also ridding your passageways of irritants, allergens, and bacteria that can cause an infection.

It’s critical to use only filtered, boiled, or distilled water, and to properly clean the pot after every use. Don’t use water straight from the tap.

5. Steer Clear of Germs

Winter is the prime season for the cold, flu, and other viruses that provoke inflammation of the nasal passages, congestion, and the thickening of mucous. Catching a cold can make you more susceptible to having further sinus troubles, and when symptoms persist, it may result in a sinus infection.

To protect your sinus health, take precautionary measures to avoid getting sick. Basic measures to help keep your immune system strong include:

Sinus Relief Specialists in McAllen

Feel like you’ve tried everything and are still stuck with chronic sinus symptoms? If your winter sinus flare-ups just won’t seem to disappear, it may be time to visit your local ENT at Glatz Group of Valley ENT.

With COVID-19 cases on the rise this winter, we will keep offering alternative methods to have your symptoms addressed with telemedicine, where you can be assisted without leaving your home. For in-person appointments, we ensure that all precautionary steps are being taken every day -- and we also take calls.

Take control of your sinusitis this winter. Enjoy the season without sinus troubles when you stop by The Glatz Group of Valley ENT!

 

Book Your Appointment Today

If you suffer from frequent sinus infections, you’re not alone. Roughly 37 million people are impacted by this condition each year. While the most obvious cause of sinus infections involve blockages in your sinus cavities, there are many other unusual sinus infection causes that can occur. 

Today, the McAllen certified physician assistant Jonathan Lerma and his right-hand team of sinus relief specialists at the Glatz Group of Valley ENT will shed some light on some of the most uncommon causes of sinus infections in an effort to bring awareness.

1. Swimming in Chlorinated Pools

Swimming as a form of exercise is wonderful for your health; however, spending too much time in chlorinated pools can raise the likelihood of sinus infections. The chlorine can irritate nasal passageways, causing inflammation and increasing susceptibility to infection. When you dive into the water, the pressure can push chlorinated water deeper into your sinuses, affecting deeper and delicate tissues.

2. Diabetes

People with diabetes generally have higher blood glucose levels. Those elevated levels can make it more likely for you to develop infections, particularly ones in the sinuses and other sensitive areas.

These infections aren’t limited to the common viral and bacterial invasions that often result in sinus infections. People with diabetes can also develop oral yeast infections, which may spread to the nasal cavity. This unusual sinus infection type can sometimes be tougher to spot and treat than more common infections.

3. Dry Air 

Part of living in Texas means we hardly have to worry about a lack of humidity. However, if you spend a lot of time in air-conditioned buildings or flying for work, dry air can cause issues. When the air is too dry, it can dry out your sinuses and thicken mucus trapped in your nasal openings. When this occurs, bacteria and viruses can get trapped as well, causing infection.

Staying well-hydrated when indoors can help. Avoid caffeine and alcohol and drink plenty of water. You can also irrigate your sinuses with a neti pot or a saline nasal spray to reduce dryness and irritation.

4. Nasal Sprays

Nasal spray decongestants can be a lifesaver when you’re coping with the pain of a sinus headache or infection, but overusing this medication can make sinus pressure and sinus infections more likely. 

When over-the-counter sinus sprays are used too much, your body becomes less sensitive to the medication. This can result in tissues becoming swollen again, which is called rebound nasal congestion. Fluids then become trapped, making infections more likely.

When a sinus infection inflicts pain and pressure, don’t automatically reach for an over-the-counter spray. These sprays should be used sparingly so that they don’t cause rebound congestion.

5. Chronic Medical Conditions

Chronic conditions like cystic fibrosis and other disorders that weaken your immune system can lead to inflammation in the airways and make you prone to building up thick mucus.

This thicker mucus, or an impaired ability to fight germs due to diabetes or HIV infection, can make you susceptible to sinus infections.

6. Bacteria

If a cold doesn’t resolve within 10 to 15 days, bacteria may have joined the party.

Bacterial infections rarely cause sinus infections, but they are almost always the cause of complicating secondary infections. 

These bacteria can creep up in healthy people and grow. Take a decongestant during a cold to avoid those circumstances, and if you do develop bacterial sinusitis, you can treat it with antibiotics.

7. Problems With Your Anatomy

Certain people have nasal abnormalities that make them more prone to sinus infections. These can include deviated septums that make it difficult for your sinuses to drain properly. Other causes can include cleft palate, narrow sinus pathways, and even tumors.

Despite what nasal abnormalities you may have, balloon sinuplasty can be an option for relief. The procedure helps open up your sinuses, minimizing the likelihood of future sinus infections.

About Balloon Sinuplasty

While sinus infections can have many causes, there’s one solution that can help: the balloon sinuplasty procedure. This minimally invasive technique requires minimal tissue removal with little to no pain. 

All it takes is getting it done in our office, with a recovery time that’s significantly quicker than traditional sinus surgery. Many patients are able to go back to their normal activities within two days.

If sinus infections are a frequent issue, we recommend having a conversation with us to determine if you’re a candidate for balloon sinuplasty. If you wish to learn more about the benefits of balloon sinuplasty, feel free to reach out to The Glatz Group.

Relieve Your Sinus Infections When You See The Glatz Group of Valley ENT 

If you can’t figure out the cause of your sinus infections and want to eliminate them altogether, we’d be ‘Glatz’ to detect the problem and find a solution that works best for you.

As COVID-19 remains an ongoing health concern, we will keep providing the alternative to have your symptoms addressed through telemedicine if you’d rather seek treatment or help from the safety and comfort of your humble abode. If you need an appointment, you can rest assured knowing that we take all precautionary measures necessary to preserve the safety of our patients and staff members. For an in-office procedure, we also accept calls.

Don’t Let Sinus Infections Take Over Your Life. Breathe Free Again After a Visit With The Glatz Group of Valley ENT!

Book Your Appointment Today

If you’ve stopped by the Glatz Group offices in McAllen, chances are that you may have seen some new faces around. However, they’ve actually been loyal and integral staff members for years.

One of those Glatz Group team members you’ll become even more familiar with is Jonathan Lerma, our very own certified Physician Assistant. He’s now leading our team, delivering the same quality care and service as Dr. Glatz. 

Working alongside Dr. Glatz for a year and as a dedicated student for six months, Jonathan absorbed the lessons and wisdom of Dr. Glatz for nearly two years.  

Today, we’re here to tell you a little bit more about Jonathan Lerma and his trusted team of sinus relief specialists at the Glatz Group of Valley ENT, as well as what inspired his career path, and what quality patient care means to him.

A Certified Physician Assistant and a Family Man

Jonathan Lerma decided to settle down in the Rio Grande Valley for its amazing environment and the laidback lifestyle it has to offer. Family-oriented, Jonathan wanted to find a home best suited for his new family, including his baby girl.

He brings this fatherly perspective into his profession and wants to make sure you and your little ones are always comfortable whenever you stop by our Glatz Group office.

Lerma’s favorite hobbies outside of work and spending time with his family include sports like football, basketball, and soccer. 

A Passion for Medicine and Patient Care

Being involved in the medical field has always been a lifelong dream of Jonathan. He always carried a deep appreciation for those involved in the world of medicine and the impact they had on their patients. This passion grew stronger when he began to work with Dr. Glatz. 

What intrigues him the most about working as a certified Physician Assistant in the specialized area of ENT is how different every single day can be. Jonathan finds it fascinating how unique each case is, and enjoys having the opportunity to see all sides of the spectrum. 

His favorite part about being a part of Glatz Group is that he and his team are able to deliver medical services that are oftentimes outside of what a general doctor can do. 

Patient care, overall, will always be his top priority. He values what people remember from their visit to Glatz Group, and has plenty of fond memories of his own experiences with patients. Providing exceptional quality patient care, he believes he can have a positive impact on his clients’ lives. 

Early Warning Signs of Serious ENT Conditions

For those dealing with potential sinus-related health issues, here are some warning signs that Jonathan advises you should be aware of: 

Jonathan Lerma’s Goals for the Glatz Group

2020 has undeniably been the furthest thing from normal, but Lerma’s goal for the Glatz Group is to keep ensuring that patients are being properly taken care of. He’s also working closely with his team to deliver improved telemedicine services so that all patients can obtain the care they need, regardless of their ability to visit the office because of COVID-19.

The team will also continue to ensure that our offices follow all CDC recommendations for cleaning and protecting visitors. 

Balloon Sinuplasty Still the Best Relief for Sinus Issues 

For patients whose symptoms do not resolve with medication, Jonathan Lerma is able to perform the minimally invasive and effective procedure known as balloon sinuplasty. When it comes to your allergy and sinus problems, you can count on our McAllen Physician Assistant to take care of it.

If you’re experiencing any allergy or sinus issues, do not hesitate to set up an appointment with the Glatz Group of Valley ENT, and see Jonathan Lerma himself.

 

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(956) 331-8928

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enquiry@glatzyoudid.com

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