Latest news with #ENT
CNA
3 days ago
- Health
- CNA
What's actually in saliva? What can it say about your health? What are signs you should see a doctor?
Spit, drool, and more recently, hawk-tuah… all choice words associated with some rather unsavoury situations that involve saliva. As eek-inducing as this by-product of the mouth appears to be, your oral health would be in a very different state if not for your saliva. And your body knows that – it produces one to two litres a day, and enough to fill a bathtub in a year. In fact, during your lifetime, you could produce over 23,000 litres of saliva, according to Cleveland Clinic. But what does your spit contain that makes it essential, other than to make swallowing easier? And should you see a doctor if you can't control your saliva or if your mouth feels as dry as the desert? Here's a look. WHAT'S IN SALIVA AND WHAT DOES IT DO? Saliva is made up of 99 per cent water, with the remaining 1 per cent comprising proteins, electrolytes and other substances, said Dr Ker Liang, an ENT surgeon and the medical director of Aglow ENT Centre. Generally, your drool consists of two types of saliva: Serous saliva and mucous saliva. Serous saliva is primarily watery and contains enzymes like amylase, which aids in carbohydrate digestion. Mucous saliva is thicker and acts as a lubricant to protect your mouth and prevent tissues from sticking, such as your tongue gumming itself to the roof of your mouth. It goes without saying that the function of saliva is multi-fold. It is secreted to pre-digest the rice, noodles or other carbohydrates in your mouth as you chew. In fact, without saliva, you wouldn't be able to taste, according to Cleveland Clinic, as the food molecules must dissolve in saliva before they can be detected by your taste buds. Other than pre-digesting food as you chew, saliva also 'flushes out' the leftover food and drink in your mouth after you've swallowed, which can otherwise 'erode the teeth and cause cavities or gum disease', said Dr Ker. 'At the same time, it helps to rebalance the pH disrupted by the foods and drinks we consume.' That's not all. Saliva's microbe-limiting enzymes can protect against infection in the mouth, said Dr Ker. Certain substances in your drool can help prevent calcium loss from teeth as well as promote tissue healing (you'd know if you've ever accidentally bitten your tongue or the inside of your cheek). But you might want to rethink pre-chewing your baby's food or giving a dropped pacifier a quick suck to 'clean' it. 'There could have been an impression that a parent's saliva contains non-harmful bacteria that can trigger a positive immune response when transferred to the baby, either by pre-chewing or even sucking on pacifiers to clean them,' said Dr Ker. 'While not wrong, parents who adopt this habit should consider the risk of transmitting bacteria from their mouths to their babies,' she said. HOW IS SALIVA PRODUCED? According to Dr Ker, there are numerous salivary glands that are in charge of saliva production. Among them, there are three pairs of major salivary glands: Parotid glands: The largest of the salivary glands, they are located in front of your ears. Each parotid gland is slightly smaller than your ear. Submandibular glands: These are found below either side of the jaw and together, they are about the size of a walnut. Sublingual glands: These almond-sized glands are found below the right and left sides of the tongue. These glands are stimulated by taste, smell and the act of chewing, she said. 'The amount and type of saliva produced can vary, depending on the type of stimulation, and are regulated by the nervous system.' Even throwing up activates your glands big time, according to Cleveland Clinic, to dilute and neutralise the stomach acid that comes up in your vomit. Interestingly, how much you salivate can tell you something about your personality. It has to do with a part of your brain called the reticular activating system (RAS), which responds to stimuli like sour food and social contact, according to BBC. Scientists think that introverts tend to already have a high level of RAS activity even without stimulation. So, when a small stimulus, such as a few drops of lemon juice, is given to introverts, they tend to salivate about 50 per cent more than extroverts, reported BBC. And because the RAS also reacts to social contact, this could mean that introverts react more strongly to meeting people, too. What's not clear is, would the test make a good ice-breaker at parties? CAN THESE SALIVARY GLANDS GET INFECTED? Yes, they can. 'The parotid gland tends to warrant more attention not only because it is the largest salivary gland, but also because of its prevalence as a tumour site,' cautioned Dr Ker. 'Although most salivary gland tumours are benign, they are largely found in the parotid gland.' Viral infections such as mumps also tend to occur in the parotid gland, said Dr Ker. 'When the parotid gland is impacted, it is usually visible through signs of swelling of the upper cheeks, given the location of the glands.' But hang on, aren't you already vaccinated against mumps as a baby with the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) combination vaccines? Can you still develop mumps as an adult? According to Statista, other than babies and preteens from ages zero to 14 years old, the next most prevalent age groups to develop mumps are the 25-34-years-old group, and the 45-54-years-old group. 'Mumps, which is the swelling of the salivary gland, can affect individuals well into adulthood even if they are vaccinated as a baby,' said Dr Ker. 'This happens as the immunity provided by the MMR shots decreases over time and individuals are not as well protected long after the shot hence, when exposed, individuals can still develop painful symptoms like swelling of the jaw, fatigue and fever.' Opting for an MMR booster is your key preventive measure, she added. Mumps may be treated with medication, while tumours may be surgically removed, she said. Another infection of the salivary glands is sialadenitis. 'This typically occurs due to an inflammation in the salivary gland or connecting ducts that triggers an infection,' said Dr Ker. 'It can be caused by a variety of reasons, including the presence of a bacteria or virus, dehydration, other illnesses or poor oral hygiene.' Signs to look out for include decreased saliva production, dry mouth, swelling of the cheek and pain while eating. 'If you suspect any sialadenitis symptoms, visit an ENT specialist, who can provide appropriate treatment ranging from antibiotics, home remedies, or in some cases, a surgical approach to remove an abscess or blockage if necessary,' she said. HOW YOUR SALIVA CHANGES Age: Saliva tends to decrease and become more viscous as you get older. This results in a dry mouth that can contribute to the increase in cavities or other oral problems. Ageing can also lead to a loss of muscle control that causes drooling. Getting sick: With respiratory conditions that cause nasal congestion, your saliva may thicken as you depend more on your mouth to breathe. Other times, saliva production may increase when you are fighting off infections. Bad breath: You may suffer from reduced saliva production, which is essential to flush out bacteria that causes bad breath. In some instances, the saliva may be thicker and stickier, making it less effective at cleansing the mouth. Stress: More saliva may be produced as a response of the nervous system, which could involuntarily result in unprompted drooling. WHEN DO YOU NEED TO SEE A DOCTOR? Some instances of drooling could be linked to neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). 'Infections like sinusitis or tonsillitis can also result in drooling symptoms. In those instances, be sure to visit an ENT specialist for a proper examination and treatment,' advised Dr Ker. She highlighted that it is unusual for saliva to thicken to the point of feeling uncomfortable or difficult to swallow. 'If you notice such symptoms or that your saliva starts to clump or stick to your gum, you may want to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.' Often, your saliva's viscous consistency is caused by not drinking enough water. 'Sometimes, sick individuals may find their saliva thickening as it mixes with mucus during a flu or cold,' said Dr Ker. HOW CAN YOU KEEP YOUR SALIVARY GLANDS HEALTHY? One word: pH. 'Maintaining the pH balance of your saliva is important because it helps inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth,' said Dr Ker. 'A stable, healthy pH level in the mouth reduces the risk of oral diseases, including various types of infections.' And that's not mentioning the good it does for your teeth by preventing the enamel from being eroded by acidic foods and drinks. 'One key way to maintain saliva pH is to monitor your diet,' said Dr Ker. In short, avoid sugar and carbonated drinks, which are usually acidic in nature, as much as possible. Instead, eat more alkaline foods such as vegetables and beans. Last but not least, floss and use alcohol-free mouthwash on top of regular brushing. 'Ensuring proper hydration is also key to help wash out excess acid and restore the balance in the mouth,' said Dr Ker.
United News of India
3 days ago
- Health
- United News of India
Patna High Court refuses to grant relief to student in MBBS impersonation case
Patna, June 02 (UNI) Patna High Court on Monday refused to grant any interim relief to Arvind Kumar, a student of MBBS of Government Medical College, Bettiah facing the charge of arranging for another student to appear on his behalf in the third year examination of the College. Justice Parthasarti of the Court, while hearing a petition of Arbind Kumar, refused to entertain his plea of granting relief. Instead, the Court accepted the plea of government pleader Prashant Pratap that impersonation was a serious issue and Arbind did not deserve any mercy as it could pose a serious threat to public health security. " New generation of the society will suffer the most in medical care if such a student who himself can not clear the examination and arrange for another student to appear on his behalf in third year MBBS examination of the medical college ", Pratap pointed out and added that petitioner himself had admitted in his petition that he had utilised the services of another student to appear on his behalf in the examination of third year of ENT. On the other hand, Ramchandra Singh, counsel of the petitioner, urged the Court to allow Arbind to appear in the next examination for MBBS. He pleaded that some students of the Medical College were granted relief in a similar case, as Aryabhatta Knowledge University had not filed its reply in the case. The Court directed the Vice Chancellor of Aryabhatta Knowledge University to file a reply in the case and fixed June 20, 2025, as the next date of hearing. The Court also directed the Additional Chief Secretary of the Health Department of the Bihar government to inform the Vice Chancellor of the University to file a reply in the case, as counsel for the University was not present in the Court. Admission of four students was cancelled by the College in the same case, but they got relief as Aryabhatta Knowledge University had failed to reply in the case. An FIR was filed against Arvind by the Examination Controller of the University for arranging for another student to appear on his behalf in third third-year examination of ENT of the college. UNI XC KKS BD
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
‘Made to wait in ambulance for hours': Rape victim, a minor, dies at Patna govt hospital, family says admitted too late
A minor girl, who was raped on May 26 and succumbed to her injuries Sunday morning at the Patna Medical College Hospital (PMCH), had to wait in an ambulance for hours before being admitted to the hospital, her family alleged. PMCH authorities denied the allegations and said the hospital administration acted swiftly after the case came to their notice. 'When we arrived at PMCH on Saturday (from another hospital), the emergency department staff said there was no space and directed us to other wards. We were sent to the paediatric department after being turned away from two-three wards. She was in the ambulance for hours. It was after some politicians intervened that she was finally admitted at around 5 pm on Saturday, and passed away this morning,' the girl's uncle said Sunday. On Saturday afternoon, Congress workers, led by the party's Bihar president Rajesh Ram, showed up at PMCH while the girl was waiting in the ambulance. On Sunday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said in a post on social media, 'The brutality against a minor Dalit girl in Muzaffarpur and the subsequent negligence in her treatment is extremely shameful. If she had received timely treatment, her life could have been saved. But the double-engine government was negligent not only in providing security but also in saving her life. We will not sit quietly until the victim's family gets justice. Strict action should be taken against the culprits and negligent officers.' PMCH Medical Superintendent Dr Indrashekhar Thakur said there was no negligence on the part of the hospital administration. He said she had been brought to the central emergency unit of PMCH in an ambulance from a Muzaffarpur hospital at 1.23 pm Saturday, after which doctors advised that she be taken to the ENT department. 'I was on leave, but the acting superintendent was informed and immediately called the patient to the ENT department. Meanwhile, Congress workers arrived, leading to a crowd outside ENT. Our doctors examined her in the advanced life support ambulance itself, which was equipped with the necessary facilities. Besides an injury to her throat, she also had chest injuries and other injuries and had been sexually assaulted. So, by 3.43 pm, a quick decision was made to admit her to the gynaecology department, as ENT currently lacks an ICU facility,' he said. 'Allegations that PMCH neglected her for four hours or nine hours are baseless. As soon as the administration was informed, every effort was made to treat her… Despite the best efforts of all doctors, she passed away around 8.15 am on Sunday,' Thakur said. According to police, the girl was assaulted on May 26 in Muzaffarpur district. The accused, Rohit Kumar Sahni (30), allegedly lured her away from her home at around 11 am with the 'promise of Kurkure and chocolate'. Police alleged that he took her to an isolated spot near a pond, raped her, slit her throat and stabbed her with a knife. She was found lying near the pond at around 7 pm that evening. Muzaffarpur Rural Superintendent of Police (SP) Vidya Sagar said the accused was arrested the same night. 'The victim had suffered multiple injuries on her body. Due to the cut on her throat, she couldn't speak, but narrated the ordeal to her relatives using signals. During the preliminary investigation, we learned that the accused has a history of such behaviour and a habitual tendency to harass girls. Two days before this incident, he attempted to assault another girl, but it was not reported to the police. We also found that he made social media reels to attract young girls,' the officer said. The girl's mother, a widow, said the accused had taken the girl away after he came to the house to sell fish. 'I was unwell and didn't notice. When I woke up and looked for her, she was nowhere to be found. Later, someone told me he had taken her on his bicycle at around 11 am,' she said, adding that the accused frequented their village to sell fish. She was informed by the village head that her daughter was lying near a pond, after which she rushed to the spot with the police. Another relative said the girl was found at around 7 pm after the family and villagers made desperate attempts to locate her. She was initially treated at SKMCH in Muzaffarpur for five days before being referred to PMCH on Saturday.
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
ENT and Allergy Associates Welcomes Otolaryngologist Ravi Patel, M.D. to their Madison Avenue Office
Otolaryngologist Ravi Patel, M.D., will be joining the Madison Avenue clinical site in Manhattan, located at 18 East 48th Street, 2nd Floor, as of September 1, 2025. Otolaryngologist Ravi Patel, M.D. Tarrytown, New York, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP (ENTA), the nation's largest ENT, Allergy, and Audiology specialty practice, is continuing its focus on expanding patient access to high-quality ENT care in the New York City region. To further that goal, ENTA proudly announces that otolaryngologist Ravi Patel, M.D., will be joining the practice's Madison Avenue clinical site in Manhattan, as of September 1, 2025. Dr. Patel graduated with B.A. degrees in Chemistry and Cognitive Sciences with a concentration in Neuroscience from Rice University in Houston. He also minored in biochemistry and cell biology. He earned his medical degree from the Zucker School of Medicine in Hempstead, NY. Dr. Patel then completed his residency in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery at Hofstra/Northwell. He has co-authored publications on a wide range of topics including 'Adenoidectomy: Inpatient Criteria Study' in the American Journal of Otolaryngology, 'Immune-Mediated Sensorineural Hearing Loss in the Pediatric Population' in Oto Head and Neck Surgery, and more. Dr. Patel will be practicing at ENTA's state-of-the-art Madison Avenue facility located at 18 East 48th Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10017. Dr. Patel will practice alongside otolaryngologists Jonathan Aviv, M.D., Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, M.D., Ofer Jacobowitz, M.D., Jason A. Moche, M.D., and allergist / immunologist, Ujwala Kaza, M.D. "We are very excited to welcome Dr. Ravi Patel to our growing team,' expressed Steven Gold, M.D., Vice President, and Chair of the ENTA Recruitment Committee. "It is integral that we continue to recruit the best and brightest of the next generation of physicians, and we believe Dr. Patel embodies that. He will be a huge asset to both our practice and the community he will serve.' To learn more about ENTA, find a local office or book an appointment, visit or call 1-855-ENTA-DOC. About ENT and Allergy Associates LLP: ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP (ENTA) is the largest ENT, Allergy, and Audiology practice in the country, with over 450 clinicians who now practice in over 60 clinical locations throughout New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Each ENTA clinical office is comprised of world-class physicians who are specialists and sub-specialists in their respective fields, providing the highest level of expertise and care. With a wide range of services including Adult and Pediatric ENT and Allergy, Voice and Swallowing, Advanced Sinus and Skull Base Surgery, Facial Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery, Treatment of Disorders of the Inner Ear and Dizziness, Asthma-related services, Diagnostic Audiology, Hearing Aid Dispensing, Sleep and CT Services, ENTA Is able to meet the needs of patients of all ages. ENTA is also affiliated with some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world, including The Mount Sinai Health System, Montefiore Medical Center, Northwell Health and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. Each year ENTA physicians are voted 'Top Doctor' by Castle Connolly, a true testament to the exceptional care and service they provide to their patients. Attachment Otolaryngologist Ravi Patel, M.D. CONTACT: Jason Campbell ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP 914-984-2531 jcampbell@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Hindustan Times
14-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
As Ibrahim Ali Khan opens up about jaundice-induced speech impairment since birth, doctors share early warning signs
Ibrahim Ali Khan, who made his acting debut in March 2025 with Nadaaniyan, was asked about how he 'struggled with his speech because of a hearing disability since birth' in a May 12 interview with GQ India. Ibrahim, who is the son of actors Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh, shared his personal experience with jaundice-induced speech impairment, and said he had to work extensively with speech coaches and therapists to improve his speech. Also read | Ibrahim Ali Khan reveals speech, hearing issues Ibrahim Ali Khan said, 'Soon after I was born, I had very bad jaundice and that went straight to my brainstem. I went on to lose quite a bit of my hearing and that impacted my speech. My speech is something that I've had to work hard on since I was a child, with coaches and therapists. It's not perfect; I'm still working really hard on it.' Ibrahim's speech is still a work in progress, and he continues to work on improving it. However, his experience highlights the importance of addressing childhood and newborn jaundice promptly and providing necessary support for babies and children with speech impairments. Jaundice is the yellow colour seen on the skin of some newborn babies. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, doctors stressed the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Dr Sheetal Goyal, consultant neurologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, told HT Lifestyle that newborn and childhood jaundice can lead to complications like hearing loss and speech difficulties. She said that 'most people don't realise that something as common as jaundice in newborns can sometimes lead to long-term effects, especially when it affects the brainstem or auditory pathways'. She added: 'When bilirubin levels are too high and not treated in time, they can cause damage that may affect a child's ability to hear properly, and that can significantly delay speech development.' Dr Pradip Uppal, director and consultant ENT, Jupiter Hospital, Thane added, 'Newborn jaundice is generally harmless and will often go away by itself. Bilirubbin, however, if it gets too high and goes unnoticed, may impact areas of the brain that control hearing and motor function. Although unlikely, this type of injury can cause problems such as hearing loss or delayed speech as the child matures.' Sharing tips for parents, Dr Goyal said, "Parents need to look out for early warning signs such as minimal babbling, failure to respond to sound, or difficulty with word formation past age two." She added that speech therapy can be beneficial for children with speech impairments caused by jaundice or other conditions. Dr Goyal said, 'The good news is that early hearing screening, brain imaging if necessary, and ongoing speech therapy can be a game-changer. We've witnessed numerous children gain confidence and communication skills with the proper interventions. All children deserve that opportunity, and the sooner we intervene, the more favorable the outcomes.' Untreated jaundice can lead to serious complications, including brain damage, hearing loss, and speech problems. Hence, Dr Uppal suggested, 'Vigilance early on is crucial. Jaundice that lasts longer than the first week must be thoroughly evaluated. Early interventions like phototherapy and continuous developmental assessment are important in the prevention of long-term complications.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
