Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders Sourcebook, 4th Ed.

The ear, nose, and throat are vital organs with interconnected functions that contribute significantly to daily bodily activities. Situated in close anatomical proximity, these organs often share closely related functions. Ailments affecting these vital organs are among the most prevalent health issues troubling Americans today. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), roughly 15 percent of American adults, aged 18 and above, report experiencing some trouble hearing. Additionally, it is estimated that 1 in 3 individuals in the United States, between the ages of 65 and 74, suffer from hearing loss, and 1 in 30 people has very little or no sense of smell.

Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders Sourcebook, Fourth Edition provides readers with updated health information concerning the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and disorders affecting the ears, nose, sinuses, throat, and voice. This includes ear infections, otosclerosis, cholesteatoma, hearing loss, ototoxicity, tinnitus, vertigo, Ménière’s disease, perilymph fistula (PLF), deviated septum, sleep apnea, sore throat, tonsillitis, swallowing disorders, laryngeal cancer, and more. This book also includes a glossary of related terms and a directory of resources for further assistance and information.

Part 1: Structure and Functions of the Ear, Nose, and Throat begins with an overview of the anatomy of the ear, nose, and throat. It also explains the complex connections between these vital organs and explains how they function closely together.

Part 2: Disorders of the Ears describes in detail the specifics of common ear disorders, covering conditions such as ear infections and injuries. It also explores prevalent diagnostic tests used in these cases.

Part 3: Hearing Disorders provides a detailed exploration of prevalent types of hearing loss. It outlines the diagnostic process for hearing loss and provides insights into hearing protection. The part concludes with information on electronic hearing devices, including hearing aids and cochlear implants, along with strategies for effective communication with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Part 4: Vestibular Disorders explores conditions that influence the sense of balance and the standard diagnostic tests employed for their detection. It discusses the effects of aging, allergies, and environmental factors on the vestibular system. The part also clarifies the consequences of vestibular disorders and outlines methods for vestibular rehabilitation.

Part 5: Disorders of the Nose and Sinuses outlines the anatomy of the nasal and sinus passages, providing comprehensive information on disorders commonly affecting these areas. It also covers frequently employed diagnostic tests and surgical procedures related to nasal and sinus conditions.

Part 6: Disorders of the Throat and Vocal Cords provides insights into various conditions, including sore throats, tonsil and adenoid disorders, laryngeal issues, difficulties in swallowing (dysphagia), and disorders affecting the voice and vocal cords, such as hoarseness and stuttering.

Part 7: Cancers of the Ears, Nose, and Throat explores the specifics of cancers affecting the ears, nose, and throat, such as nasopharyngeal and laryngeal cancers. Each chapter dedicated to a specific type of cancer covers risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, staging, and treatment.

Part 8: Additional Help and Information offers a glossary of terms related to the ears, nose, and throat, along with a directory of organizations providing further information.