Understanding Salivary Gland Problems
Saliva has the important roles of lubricating the mouth, assisting with swallowing, protecting teeth against bacteria and aiding with digestion of food. Saliva is produced by salivary glands; the three major pairs are the parotid glands inside the cheeks, submandibular glands at the floor of the mouth and sublingual glands under the tongue. There are…
A New Non-Surgical Test for Thyroid Cancer May Soon Be Available
Thyroid cancer affects some 52,070 people every year. Unfortunately, many individuals in Portland end up undergoing an unnecessary surgical procedure because the standard test for thyroid cancer is often inconclusive. Researchers have developed a new test that promises to reduce the number of surgeries once it is cleared for widespread use. The Downside of Fine…
Home Remedies for Acid Reflux
Eating should be a pleasurable experience, but for 60 million people in Portland and across the country, there is less enjoyment in mealtime because the dessert that follows is a painful, burning sensation in the chest called acid reflux. What is Heartburn and How Can I Treat It? Nearly one in five people in Oregon…
10 Foods to Eat When You Have a Sore Throat
Sore throats cause discomfort for people of all ages in Portland. Often the first sign of a cold or upper respiratory infection, they can leave you feeling miserable and not wanting to eat—but it’s important to fuel your body when you’re sick in order to speed up the healing process. Nutrient-Dense Foods for Colds and…
Surprising Symptoms of Thyroid Disease
Thyroid disease in Portland is common; it’s believed that around 20 million people throughout the United States have a thyroid disorder of some sort – a number equivalent to 12 percent of the population. Despite its prevalence, there is a widespread lack of knowledge about what it’s like to have thyroid disease. You’ll probably find…
What’s Causing My Sore Throat?
At one time or another, pretty much everybody in Portland has experienced a sore throat. Whether the result of illness or overuse of the voice, sore throats are never pleasant. Most of the time they are harmless, but occasionally may indicate a more serious underlying condition. Knowing when to seek treatment is key to a…