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Throat & Neck Disorders
Northwest ENT and Allergy Center providers have extensive experience evaluating and treating a variety of disorders affecting the throat and neck.
Through careful examination and advanced in-office testing, such as ultrasound, endoscopy, or needle biopsies, we are able to visualize hard-to-reach areas and provide the most accurate diagnosis.
Our ENT specialists work hard to make the diagnosis and treatment planning process a positive and effective experience for each patient.
Are you struggling with a chronic sore throat, thyroid issues, or other neck and throat-related conditions?
Sore Throat
Most sore throats (otherwise known as pharyngitis) are viral and resolve with supportive care. However, strep throat is a bacterial infection and may require antibiotic therapy.
If your sore throat does not improve within 7 to 10 days, you should be evaluated by your ENT doctor to rule out a serious medical condition.
Salivary Glands
Salivary glands include parotid, submandibular, and minor salivary glands. Disorders of the salivary glands can include chronic infection, stones, and autoimmune diseases.
Lumps or bumps in the salivary glands, while frequently benign, should be addressed with a head and neck examination to determine if further testing is required.
Voice & Swallowing Disorders
A variety of conditions cause disorders of the voice, which often manifest as hoarseness.
Abuse or misuse of the voice can cause nodules or bumps on the vocal cords. Medical conditions such as chronic acid reflux or thyroid disorders can also affect the vocal cords, as can non-medical triggers, such as smoking or aging.
A thorough head and neck examination, including a Flexible Fiberoptic Laryngoscopy (performed in-office) in the office, is the initial step in evaluating voice disorders.
Learn more about Voice & Swallowing disorders.
Head & Neck Masses
Lymph nodes are located throughout your body, as well as in your head and neck. A lump in the neck is often caused by benign lymph node inflammation or infection.
Congenital cysts, which are also usually benign, can occur on the head or neck and may not manifest until adulthood.
Through careful examination and advanced in-office testing, such as ultrasound or needle biopsies, we make the diagnosis and treatment planning process a positive and effective experience for patients.
Thyroid Disorders
The thyroid gland makes hormones that regulate your body’s metabolism. The gland is located in front of your neck, below your voice box (or Adam’s apple).
Lumps in the thyroid gland require a thorough head and neck examination. In some cases, additional testing may be required to ensure an accurate diagnosis, such as blood tests, ultrasound, or CT scans.
Learn more about your thyroid and parathyroid glands.