Primary care
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Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a very common and underdiagnosed condition across the world. It affects both pediatric and adult populations in unique but important ways. ⋯ Accurate and precise testing is vital to ensure accurate treatment, and specific testing methods are reviewed. Treatment options are discussed in detail for both adult and pediatric populations.
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Tinnitus is considered a symptom and not a diagnosis. It varies in its presentation from unilateral to bilateral and intermittent to constant. ⋯ Management includes helping the patient cope with their tinnitus using tools such as cognitive behavioral therapy among others. Education is also crucial to help patients understand and overcome the challenges associated with this symptom.
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Head and neck cancers are heterogenous cancers with rising incidence of treatable/curative cancers. They are treated comprehensively by multidisciplinary teams. Survivors of head and neck cancers often deal with the sequalae of therapy and with increasing survival rates, it is anticipated that the primary care physicians are going to encounter more patients in their clinics in the coming years. The clinicians should be aware of physiologic and functional changes in vital organs involving daily activities such as eating, drinking, speech and communication, and also be prepared to be a part of the cancer survivorship plans.
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Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, has significant impacts on patients' quality of life. A thorough history and physical examination can provide important information to determine if dysphagia is originating from oropharyngeal or esophageal causes. Identifying the underlying pathology contributing to dysphagia allows for optimal treatment and improved quality of life.
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This study provides a comprehensive overview of sinusitis, detailing its pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, and management strategies. Sinusitis, characterized by inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, can be acute, subacute, recurrent, or chronic, with distinct clinical presentations and treatment approaches. ⋯ Surgical interventions like functional endoscopic sinus surgery may be required for refractory cases. Emerging therapies, such as biologics and minimally invasive procedures, offer promising alternatives to traditional management approaches.