Treatment of GERD includes antacids, elevating the head of the bed, changing the diet, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol. Mucous drainage from the nose can cause throat irritation and hoarseness. Nasal steroid sprays and nonsedating antihistamines may help reduce the amount of drainage. Less common causes of hoarseness and voice change include decreased thyroid function, vocal cord paralysis, vocal cord nodules or polyps, and tumors of the larynx. Hoarseness lasting more than four-six weeks should be evaluated by a physician.
Otolaryngologists can visualize the both mirrors and flexible fiberoptic telescopes.
Snoring is a common problem that may occur alone or in combination with obstructive sleep apnea. Nasal obstruction can be another cause. Surgery can reduce the size of the soft tissue of uvula and palate, and also relieve nasal obstruction. The PAMF Department of Otolaryngology uses a carbon dioxide laser to remove excess uvular and palatal soft tissue, an office procedure using local anesthesia. Office turbinate surgery may also help snoring by improving nasal breathing.