Primary care
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Vocal cord disorders present with a variety of symptoms including dysphonia, respiratory symptoms, and stridor. When evaluating symptoms, a complete history and through head, neck, and neurologic examinations are necessary. ⋯ Most masses of the vocal folds are benign and resolve with voice hygiene and speech therapy. Surgery is reserved for persistent symptomatic nodules and cancerous lesions.
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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.
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Acute tonsillitis is a common illness that affects patients of all ages but the risk of complication increases with the young. Tonsillitis commonly presents with a sore throat and difficulty swallowing and will often have swelling of the tonsils with exudate on physical examination. Although acute tonsillitis secondary to group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus should be considered so that antibiotic therapy can be initiated in a timely fashion to prevent complications such as a retropharyngeal abscess or acute rheumatic fever, the most common etiology of tonsillitis is viral. The treatment of viral tonsillitis is supportive with analgesia and hydration.
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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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Temporomandibular junction disorders (TMD) are a common problem for patients presenting to the primary care office. Symptoms may be acute or chronic. ⋯ Physical examination findings vary and may include palpable tenderness or spasm of the pterygoid muscles, palpable or audible clicking at the joint, wear and tear of tooth enamel, or dental malocclusion. Most TMDs respond well to conservative therapy, but some patients may benefit from more invasive treatments.