Tonsils and adenoids are lymphatic tissue found in the back of the nose and throat, an area called the nasopharynx and oropharynx. These structures are part of the immune system and serve as filters of lymph fluid in the head and neck region to filter viruses and bacteria. As such, the tonsils and adenoids are […]
Earwax, or cerumen, is produced naturally by your body and secreted by glands in the outer portions of your ear canals. Earwax is your body’s defense mechanism that cleans and protects your ear canals from dust, dirt, and bacteria. Normally, excess earwax leaves the ear canal naturally. If your glands produce too much earwax, or […]
Hyperacusis is an increased sensitivity to normal sound levels. Having hyperacusis may make some sounds above a certain volume level seem unbearable or even painful. People are not typically born with hyperacusis, as it develops later in life suddenly or gradually over time. Causes of Hyperacusis Vibrations in the eardrum that cause movement of the […]
Pediatric thyroid cancer is a cancer that occurs in the thyroid gland in children. The thyroid is a small gland located below the Adam’s apple in the neck. It secretes hormones that help regulate certain bodily functions and it also plays an important role in children’s growth and development. Female children are affected by pediatric […]
In 2022, I graduated from the Auburn University family nurse practitioner program. I am an AANP board-certified family nurse practitioner and am excited to collaborate with Dr. Kristopher Lay and Dr. Michael Sillers. Providing compassionate and effective care for patients at Alabama Nasal and Sinus Center is my honor and commitment. I am a native […]
Normally, we have two tonsils located in the back of our throats, one on each side. Your tonsils act as one of the first lines of defense for your body’s ability to prevent infection. Tonsillitis occurs when one or both of your tonsils becomes infected with bacteria or viruses, such as with strep throat. Causes […]
What is Zenker’s Diverticulum? Diverticulum is a term used in the medical field that refers to a pouch-like tissue structure that forms abnormally. These pouch-like structures can develop throughout the human body’s digestive system, including in the throat. Zenker’s diverticulum refers to when one of the diverticulum forms in the area of the throat, between […]
When the contents of your stomach, including stomach acid, travel up into your esophagus, you have acid reflux, acid regurgitation, or gastroesophageal reflux. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) refers to when you have acid reflux more than twice per week. Approximately twenty percent, or about sixty-million people in the United States are affected by GERD. Causes […]
Are you experiencing a persistent sensation of a runny or congested nose on a daily basis? Do you find yourself constantly needing to blow your nose? These symptoms may occur due to inflammation, irritation, and swelling of the nasal passages, all part of Chronic Rhinitis. Chronic rhinitis can have various causes, and in many cases, […]
When bacteria or viruses take root and multiply in your ear, you may develop an ear infection. Due to fluid buildup and inflammation, an ear infection may be painful. If you experience ear infections repeatedly, you may face permanent damage to the middle or inner portions of your ear. Symptoms of Ear Infections Ear infections […]
Post-nasal drip is a condition that causes your body to produce excess mucus. The excess mucus can drip down the back of the throat, giving you the feeling that you need to clear your throat more than normal. While some over-the-counter remedies exist to address post-nasal drip, certain cases of post-nasal drip should be examined […]
I am a general otolaryngologist who specializes in diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the ears, nose, and throat. Though I treat patients of all ages in all areas of otolaryngology, I have special interests in rhinology (nose and sinus diseases), allergy, pediatric otolaryngology, and head and neck tumors. I was born in Dothan, Alabama […]
Fungus is present in all our surroundings and in the air we breathe. Most people with an intact immune system do not react to the presence of fungus in the nasal cavity and/or sinuses. However, some people will have an inflammatory reaction to the presence of fungus in the nose and sinuses. Fungal sinusitis can […]
Bell’s Palsy a medical condition that causes a sudden paralysis or temporary weakness in the muscles in your face. The weakened or paralyzed face muscles can result in one side of your face being droopy or saggy, your smile appearing to be one-sided, and it can affect your ability to close one of your eyes […]