At Oakdale ENT, we’re committed to delivering top-notch care for your ears, nose, and throat. Beyond treatment, we’re passionate about sharing reliable, factual, and practical health advice to empower you in making informed decisions. In that spirit, let’s set the record straight on 10 of the most common ENT myths.
Myth #1: Cotton swabs are the best way to clean your ears.
This myth tops the list for a reason—and it’s a big one! Earwax, or cerumen, is actually a natural and beneficial substance produced by your ears. Dirt, dust, and tiny microbes are effectively blocked from entering the ear canal, thanks to this trustworthy gatekeeper. Cotton swabs can actually push earwax further in, causing impaction and even damage to your eardrum.
Fact: Your ears are self-cleaning! Jaw movement during chewing and talking helps naturally move earwax outward. If you’re experiencing buildup or discomfort, consult an Oakdale ENT specialist for safe, professional removal.
Learn more by checking out our previously published blog: What’s the truth about Q-tips and your ears?
Myth #2: Hearing loss is a normal part of aging.
While it’s true that hearing can decline with age, this doesn’t mean hearing loss is inevitable. Factors like family history, loud environments, and even some prescriptions can all wreak havoc on our hearing. Imagine struggling to follow conversations, feeling alone in a crowded room, and facing mental fogginess–this is the potential fallout from untreated hearing loss.
Fact: Catching hearing problems early is vital–the sooner you get tested, the better your chances of stopping hearing loss in its tracks. Modern hearing aids are discreet and highly effective in improving hearing clarity. Oakdale ENT’s certified audiologists welcome the opportunity to provide you with a comprehensive hearing exam and answer any questions you may have on hearing loss and hearing aids.
Myth #3: Antibiotics cure all sinus infections.
Antibiotics only target bacterial infections, and the majority of sinusitis cases are viral in nature. Don’t sabotage the warriors in your medicine cabinet–abstain from taking antibiotics unless absolutely necessary, or risk doing more harm by contributing to antibiotic resistance.
Fact: Over-the-counter pain relievers, nasal decongestants, and saline irrigation can be helpful for managing symptoms of viral sinusitis. For persistent or severe sinusitis, your Oakdale ENT specialist can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the most effective treatment for you.
Here are Nine tips to keep your sinuses healthy.
Myth #4: There’s nothing you can do about allergies.
Millions of people struggle with allergies, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer in silence!
Fact: Allergy management strategies include avoiding triggers, over-the-counter and prescription medications, and even allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots or allergy drops) to desensitize your immune system. With a bit of savvy and the right approach, allergy symptoms don’t stand a chance – and your quality of life gets a serious boost.
Check out this post, Can allergy drops help my sinuses?
Myth #5: A sore throat always means strep throat.
While strep throat is a common cause of sore throat, it’s not the only one. Viruses, allergies, and even dry air can all cause throat irritation.
Fact: A rapid strep test can quickly determine if a bacterial infection is present. In most cases, a sore throat resolves on its own within a week. Gargling with warm salt water, staying hydrated, and resting your voice can all help soothe a sore throat. A chronic or persistent sore throat that lasts for weeks should be seen by your Oakdale ENT specialist.
Myth #6: A tonsillectomy is a simple procedure.
When it comes to tackling chronic tonsillitis, a tonsillectomy can be a breath of fresh air–literally. By removing the problem tonsils, you can start feeling better in no time. However, like any surgery, it does involve recovery time and potential side effects.
Fact: Your Oakdale ENT specialist will discuss the risks and benefits of tonsillectomy in detail to help you determine if it’s the right choice for you or your loved one.
Read more on tonsils or adenoids in this blog post, Does my child need their tonsils or adenoids out?
Myth #7: Snoring is just a nuisance.
As you drift off to sleep, your partner’s rhythmic snores suddenly turn into a jackhammer – messing with your own sleep. That’s one problem, but there’s a larger issue: snoring might be hiding a health concern, sleep apnea. Bad sleep is bad news for your health, and sleep apnea is one of the worst offenders–a nighttime ‘enemy number one’ that leaves one gasping for air and increasing the risk for a number of other health conditions including high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Fact: If you snore regularly, consult your Oakdale ENT specialist for a sleep study. Let’s say you’re struggling with sleep apnea. Take heart: there are several routes to resolution from lifestyle changes to CPAP machines or surgery, which can significantly improve your sleep and overall health.
Myth #8: Voice loss is no big deal.
While temporary voice loss due to a cold or overusing your voice is usually harmless, it can also be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition.
Fact: If your voice loss persists for more than a week or two, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like hoarseness or difficulty swallowing, see your Oakdale ENT specialist for evaluation.
Myth #9: Children don’t need regular ENT checkups.
Regular ENT checkups for children are just as important as regular checkups with their pediatrician. By staying on top of regular ENT checkups, you can identify and tackle any emerging issues before they become serious, turning what could’ve been a real healthcare issue into a mere blip on the radar.
Fact: Your Oakdale ENT specialist can perform a comprehensive ear, nose, and throat check, assess hearing, and address any concerns you have about your child’s ENT health.
Still not sure? Check out, When is it time to bring my child to an ENT?
Myth #10: There’s nothing I can do about a deviated septum.
A deviated septum is a common condition in which the cartilage dividing the nasal cavity is crooked. This can trigger breathing troubles, stuffy noses, and even sinus infections.
Fact: While a deviated septum cannot always be corrected with medication or other non-surgical treatments, surgery (septoplasty) can often be a highly effective solution. Your Oakdale ENT specialist can evaluate your condition and determine if surgery is the right option for you.
Learn more by reading, Seven Signs You May Have a Deviated Septum
When in doubt, Oakdale ENT is here for you.
With so many sources of information availalble to us, it’s easy to get conflicting or just plain wrong information. Remember, if you have any ENT issues giving you grief, please schedule a sit-down with your Oakdale ENT specialist to get to the bottom of things. Straightforward information and compassion are what we’re all about.
Call Oakdale ENT at 763-233-5755 or schedule an appointment online.