Condition Lookup

Epiglottitis

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
severe sore throat; fever; difficulty swallowing; stridor; drooling; muffled voice

Root Cause:
Inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, often caused by bacterial infections, particularly Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, and confirmed through laryngoscopy, neck X-rays, or blood cultures.

Treatment:
Immediate antibiotic therapy (e.g., ceftriaxone or cefotaxime) and airway management (e.g., intubation if necessary).

Medications:
Intravenous antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone , cefotaxime , or vancomycin ) and corticosteroids may be used to reduce swelling. Pain relief with acetaminophen or ibuprofen .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence has decreased significantly due to the Hib vaccine, but still occurs in unvaccinated individuals, particularly young children.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Unvaccinated children, compromised immune systems, and exposure to individuals with bacterial infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent if treated early; delay in treatment can result in fatal airway obstruction.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Airway obstruction, sepsis, aspiration pneumonia, and long-term vocal cord damage.

Nasal Vestibulitis

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Nasal Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
redness and swelling at the entrance of the nostrils; pain or tenderness in the nasal vestibule; crusting or bleeding from the nasal vestibule; itching or irritation; nasal discharge or pus

Root Cause:
Infection or inflammation of the nasal vestibule, often caused by bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus). This condition can occur from nasal trauma, excessive nose picking, or poor hygiene.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination of the nasal vestibule; in some cases, bacterial cultures may be taken if infection is suspected.

Treatment:
Treatment often involves topical antibiotics (such as mupirocin) or systemic antibiotics for more severe infections. Good hygiene and moisturizing agents may also help.

Medications:
Topical antibiotics like mupirocin (Bactroban ) are commonly prescribed, which are classified as antibacterial agents. Oral antibiotics such as dicloxacillin or cephalexin may be prescribed for more severe cases and are classified as penicillins and cephalosporins, respectively.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Nasal vestibulitis is relatively uncommon but can occur in people with nasal trauma or frequent nose picking. It is more common in individuals with compromised immune systems.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of nasal trauma, chronic nose picking, use of nasal cannulas or other devices that irritate the nasal vestibule, nasal surgery, and compromised immune systems.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper treatment, nasal vestibulitis generally resolves without complications. The prognosis is good if treated promptly.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
If left untreated, the infection may spread to surrounding structures or lead to cellulitis. Rarely, it can progress to more serious conditions like abscess formation or nasal septal perforation.

Allergic Rhinitis

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Nasal Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
sneezing; nasal congestion; runny nose; itchy eyes, nose, or throat; watery eyes; postnasal drip

Root Cause:
An allergic reaction to airborne substances (allergens) such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander, leading to inflammation in the nasal passages.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on patient history and symptoms. Allergy testing (skin prick tests or blood tests for IgE antibodies) can confirm specific allergens.

Treatment:
First-line treatments include antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and decongestants. Avoidance of known allergens is also critical. In some cases, immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be recommended.

Medications:
Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine , loratadine ) are classified as H1 receptor antagonists and are used to alleviate symptoms like sneezing and itching. Nasal corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone , mometasone ) are anti-inflammatory agents used to reduce nasal inflammation and congestion. Decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine , oxymetazoline ) are vasoconstrictors used for short-term relief of nasal congestion.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects around 10-30% of the global population, with a higher prevalence in urban areas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, exposure to allergens, environmental factors such as pollution or damp conditions, and having other allergic conditions like asthma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good with proper management, although symptoms can persist or worsen over time if left untreated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Poorly controlled allergic rhinitis can lead to sinusitis, ear infections, or worsening of asthma symptoms. Chronic rhinitis may also cause sleep disturbances or fatigue.

Non-Allergic Rhinitis

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Nasal Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
nasal congestion; runny nose; postnasal drip; sneezing; itchy nose or throat (less common than in allergic rhinitis)

Root Cause:
Chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa without an allergic component. Triggers may include irritants such as smoke, strong odors, weather changes, medications, or infections.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is clinical and based on ruling out other causes like allergies or infections. There are no specific tests for non-allergic rhinitis, but it may involve nasal endoscopy or imaging to exclude other conditions.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms with nasal corticosteroids, antihistamines (in cases of mild symptoms), and avoiding known irritants. Saline nasal sprays and antihistamine nasal sprays may also be used.

Medications:
Nasal corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone , budesonide ) and antihistamine nasal sprays (e.g., azelastine ) are used to reduce inflammation and nasal congestion. Decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine ) may be used for short-term relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-20% of the population, often in adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke, strong odors, or chemicals. Other contributing factors may include hormonal changes, medications, or previous viral infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally manageable with treatment, though symptoms can be chronic or recurrent.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
If untreated, it may lead to sinusitis or interfere with sleep and daily activities. It may also contribute to the development of nasal polyps.

Vasomotor Rhinitis

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Nasal Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
nasal congestion; runny nose; sneezing; postnasal drip; symptoms triggered by environmental factors like weather changes or odors

Root Cause:
Abnormal regulation of blood flow in the nasal vessels, often triggered by non-allergic factors such as temperature changes, strong smells, or irritants.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical diagnosis based on history and symptoms, with exclusion of allergic causes. A nasal endoscopy or imaging may be used to rule out other conditions.

Treatment:
Treatment involves nasal decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, and avoiding known triggers. Anticholinergic nasal sprays may be used to reduce symptoms.

Medications:
Nasal corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone , mometasone ) are used to reduce inflammation. Anticholinergic nasal sprays (e.g., ipratropium bromide ) can help control rhinorrhea (runny nose). Decongestants may provide temporary relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 10-15% of adults, particularly in those with a history of allergies or chronic nasal congestion.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke, pollution, or sudden temperature changes.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms may be chronic, but they are manageable with medications and lifestyle changes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Can lead to nasal obstruction, chronic sinusitis, or the development of nasal polyps.

Bacterial Sinusitis

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Nasal Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
facial pain or pressure; nasal congestion; green or yellow nasal discharge; reduced sense of smell; fever; tooth pain; headache; fatigue

Root Cause:
Inflammation and infection of the sinuses caused by bacterial pathogens (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae). The infection usually follows a viral upper respiratory infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical history and symptoms. A nasal endoscopy or CT scan may be performed for recurrent or severe cases to confirm the diagnosis and rule out complications.

Treatment:
Treatment typically includes a 10-14 day course of antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin, doxycycline). Decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, and saline irrigation may help alleviate symptoms.

Medications:
Antibiotics like amoxicillin (penicillin class) and doxycycline (tetracycline class) are used to treat the bacterial infection. Nasal corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone , budesonide ) help reduce inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 10% of adults annually, with an increased incidence during the colder months.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prior upper respiratory infections, allergies, nasal polyps, asthma, smoking, and anatomical nasal obstructions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, bacterial sinusitis often resolves within a few weeks. Chronic or recurrent cases may require longer treatment or surgery.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
If untreated, it may lead to abscesses, meningitis, or chronic sinus problems.

Viral Sinusitis

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Nasal Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
nasal congestion; clear nasal discharge; sneezing; headache; mild facial pain or pressure; cough; sore throat

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the sinuses due to a viral infection, often following a cold or upper respiratory viral infection (e.g., rhinovirus, influenza).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically clinical, with a history of a viral upper respiratory infection. Nasal cultures are generally not required unless there is a concern for bacterial superinfection.

Treatment:
Symptomatic treatment includes decongestants, nasal saline irrigation, and pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen). Antibiotics are not used unless bacterial infection is suspected.

Medications:
Symptomatic relief can be achieved with decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine ) and pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen ). Nasal saline irrigation may also be used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Viral sinusitis is common, with most individuals experiencing it at least once in their lifetime, especially during cold and flu season.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Upper respiratory viral infections, smoking, allergies, and anatomical nasal blockages.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally resolves on its own within 7-10 days; however, symptoms can linger. Complications are rare unless bacterial sinusitis develops.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Can lead to bacterial superinfection, chronic sinusitis, or ear infections.

Nasal Polyps

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Nasal Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
nasal congestion; loss of sense of smell; runny nose; postnasal drip; facial pain or pressure; snoring; breathing difficulty through the nose

Root Cause:
Nasal polyps are benign growths that develop in the nasal and sinus linings due to chronic inflammation. They are often associated with conditions like chronic sinusitis, asthma, or allergic rhinitis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is often made through physical examination, nasal endoscopy, or imaging (e.g., CT scan) to identify the size and location of the polyps.

Treatment:
Treatment includes nasal corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone) to reduce inflammation and shrink polyps. In severe cases, oral corticosteroids, surgery (polypectomy), or biologic agents (e.g., dupilumab) may be used.

Medications:
Nasal corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone , mometasone ) are anti-inflammatory drugs used as first-line treatment. Oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) may be prescribed in severe cases to reduce inflammation. Biologic agents like dupilumab (a monoclonal antibody) can be used for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Nasal polyps affect approximately 4% of the population, with a higher prevalence in individuals with asthma, allergies, or chronic sinusitis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic rhinosinusitis, asthma, cystic fibrosis, aspirin sensitivity (Samter's triad), and a family history of nasal polyps.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With appropriate treatment, nasal polyps can be controlled, but they may recur after treatment or surgery.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
If untreated, nasal polyps can cause chronic sinus infections, sleep apnea, and loss of sense of smell. Severe polyps may lead to nasal obstruction and difficulty breathing.

Laryngitis (acute or chronic)

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
hoarseness; loss of voice; sore throat; dry cough; throat irritation; difficulty swallowing

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the larynx, often due to viral or bacterial infections, irritants (like smoking), or overuse of the voice.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is primarily based on clinical presentation; laryngoscopy may be used for chronic cases to assess vocal cord damage.

Treatment:
Acute laryngitis often resolves with rest, hydration, and avoiding irritants. Chronic cases may require voice therapy, avoiding irritants, and addressing underlying causes (e.g., acid reflux, chronic infections).

Medications:
In acute cases, symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen , ibuprofen ). If bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics (e.g., penicillin, amoxicillin ) may be prescribed. In chronic cases, corticosteroids may be used for inflammation reduction.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; acute laryngitis affects approximately 7% of the population annually, while chronic laryngitis is less frequent but can be seen in smokers, singers, and those with GERD.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, excessive alcohol use, viral infections, voice overuse (e.g., singing, shouting), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Acute laryngitis typically resolves within 1-2 weeks with proper care. Chronic laryngitis may persist or worsen if underlying conditions are not addressed.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic laryngitis can lead to vocal cord damage, chronic hoarseness, or even voice loss. In rare cases, it may be associated with throat cancer, particularly in smokers.

Pharyngitis (Viral - e.g., Adenovirus, EBV)

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
sore throat; fever; fatigue; swollen lymph nodes; headache; cough

Root Cause:
Viral infections, such as adenovirus and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cause inflammation of the pharynx.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and rapid tests for common viral infections (e.g., rapid strep test can help rule out bacterial causes). Throat swabs and blood tests may be used to confirm EBV.

Treatment:
Supportive care such as rest, hydration, pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen), and throat lozenges. EBV infection may require antiviral medications in severe cases.

Medications:
Over-the-counter analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen , ibuprofen ) for pain relief. In severe cases of EBV, antiviral drugs like acyclovir may be prescribed, though they are rarely used unless complications arise.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, especially in children and young adults. EBV is the cause of infectious mononucleosis, which affects approximately 1 in 4 young adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, weakened immune system, age (most common in children and young adults).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good; viral pharyngitis resolves within a week or two. EBV-related mononucleosis can last longer but usually improves with supportive care.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rare but can include secondary bacterial infections, such as a streptococcal infection, and complications from EBV, such as splenomegaly or hepatitis.

Pharyngitis (Bacterial - e.g., Streptococcal Pharyngitis)

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
sore throat; fever; red and swollen tonsils; white patches on the tonsils; painful swallowing; headache

Root Cause:
Bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus (GAS), leading to inflammation of the throat.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Throat culture or rapid antigen test to identify the presence of Streptococcus bacteria.

Treatment:
Antibiotics (usually penicillin or amoxicillin) to treat the bacterial infection and prevent complications.

Medications:
Antibiotics such as penicillin, amoxicillin , or cephalosporins. Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may also be prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Streptococcal pharyngitis is most common in children, especially between the ages of 5-15. It is more common in the winter and early spring months.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, being in crowded environments (e.g., schools), age (children more susceptible), weakened immune system.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt antibiotic treatment. If untreated, it can lead to complications like rheumatic fever or kidney problems.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rheumatic fever, scarlet fever, glomerulonephritis, or peritonsillar abscess.

Acute Tonsillitis

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
sore throat; fever; swollen tonsils; difficulty swallowing; bad breath; ear pain

Root Cause:
Acute inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial infections.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination and throat culture or rapid strep test to confirm if a bacterial infection is present.

Treatment:
Viral tonsillitis is treated with supportive care, while bacterial tonsillitis requires antibiotics (e.g., penicillin).

Medications:
For bacterial cases, antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin are prescribed. Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used for comfort.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in children and young adults; more frequent in colder months.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, age (children are more prone), weakened immune system.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically resolves within a week with treatment. Chronic or recurrent cases may require tonsillectomy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Abscess formation (peritonsillar abscess), difficulty breathing, or spread of the infection to nearby areas.

Chronic Tonsillitis

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
recurrent sore throat; bad breath; enlarged tonsils; difficulty swallowing; ear pain; chronic coughing

Root Cause:
Persistent inflammation of the tonsils, often due to repeated infections, which can lead to chronic symptoms.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on a history of recurrent tonsillitis, clinical examination, and possibly imaging or throat culture.

Treatment:
Tonsillectomy is often recommended for chronic cases. Antibiotics may be used during acute exacerbations.

Medications:
Antibiotics for bacterial flare-ups, such as penicillin or amoxicillin . Pain relievers may also be used for symptomatic relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common than acute tonsillitis, but it can occur in individuals who have frequent throat infections.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Frequent throat infections, poor immune function, exposure to pathogens.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Tonsillectomy often provides a permanent solution, but without surgery, it may persist or cause recurrent throat infections.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Abscess formation, difficulty breathing, or spreading of infection to other parts of the body.

Retropharyngeal Abscess

Specialty: Nose and Throat

Category: Throat (Pharyngeal and Laryngeal) Conditions

Sub-category: Infectious and Inflammatory Conditions

Symptoms:
severe sore throat; difficulty swallowing; neck stiffness; fever; drooling; stridor

Root Cause:
A bacterial infection that leads to a collection of pus in the retropharyngeal space, often following upper respiratory tract infections or trauma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, neck X-rays, or CT scans to detect the abscess.

Treatment:
Requires urgent drainage and antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin or ampicillin-sulbactam).

Medications:
Intravenous antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin , ampicillin-sulbactam, or vancomycin ) are used. Pain relief with acetaminophen or ibuprofen .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common, typically seen in children under 5 years old.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recent upper respiratory infections, trauma to the neck, and immune system compromise.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, the prognosis is good. Delayed treatment can lead to severe complications, including airway obstruction.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Airway obstruction, sepsis, aspiration pneumonia, and spread of the infection to nearby structures.