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Whether it’s a seasonal cold or a bit of lightheadedness, all of us at some point have had issues related to the ear, nose, and throat. Many residents in the Clear Lake, Texas, area label it as a “stubborn cold” or “exhaustion.” But, some of these common problems can have serious consequences if not addressed. At Houston Physicians’ Hospital, we know how serious an ENT problem can be, so we’ve laid out some signs that let you know it’s time to visit an ENT specialist as soon as possible:

 

1. Sinus Pain

Hollow spaces in the facial bones that connect to the nose through narrow pathways are known as sinuses. Inflammation of these spaces can lead to sinusitis that can either be acute (lasting less than four weeks) or chronic (lasting more than 12 weeks). It is characterized by cloudy nose drainage, along with any one of the following:

• Nose congestion
• Heaviness in the head or specifically face
• A headache
• Loss of smell (chronic)
• Thick drainage (chronic)

 

Sinus pain can spread to the face, ear, teeth, and nose. While acute cases resolve with at-home treatments, chronic ones require referral to ENT specialists [2]. Furthermore, urgent referral becomes an absolute necessity in the presence of the following complications:

• Orbital sepsis
• Intracranial sepsis

If your symptoms persist for 10 days or more or improve for a short period of time before worsening, it is time to visit an ENT specialist. They will not only identify the exact cause of sinus pain, but also create a treatment plan.

A clinical study researching the efficacy of management strategies concluded that 50% of patients with sinus-headache pain can be benefited from otolaryngic management [2].

 

2. Tinnitus/ Ringing in Ears

Hearing “phantom noises” like ringing, buzzing, hissing, or clicking in the absence of any external sound is known as tinnitus. While tinnitus isn’t very serious in most cases, it requires immediate attention if it is acquired after an upper respiratory tract infection, doesn’t improve within 10 days, or is accompanied by hearing loss.

If tinnitus becomes severe, it can even lead to disability. According to The College of Family physicians of Canada, tinnitus-related disability claims form the largest fraction of claims submitted to the Workplace Safety and Insurance board [3]. Visiting a Clear Lake ENT specialist when symptoms first occur can help prevent a case of tinnitus from becoming severe.

 

3. Hoarseness

According to American Academy of Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery, bouts of hoarseness are frequently reported, and almost one-third of the population experiences them at some point in their life [4].

While hoarseness is typically seen as a consequence of common cold, one should not forget that it could be an indication of a serious underlying issue. Typically, it is recommended to manage it conservatively for 4 weeks before referring to an ENT specialist. However, if symptoms become severe, it’s important to seek medical help as quickly as possible.

 

It can be hard to determine whether something is just the common cold or an ENT problem. If you notice severe cases of any of these signs, it’s time to schedule an appoint with one of Houston Physicians’ Hospital’s leading ENT doctors. Give us a call at (281) 557-5620, or visit us at https://www.houstonphysicianshospital.com/ear-nose-and-throat/.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1800997/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25216102
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6042678/

 

The holiday season has come to a close, and many residents in the Clear Lake, Texas, area are ready to begin the task of taking down their holiday decorations. As you begin taking the lights and decorations down, be sure to keep your spine in mind. At Houston Physicians’ Hospital, we understand the importance of avoiding a spine injury, so we’ve laid out some tips to help you keep your spine safe when taking down your holiday decorations.

Removing decorations can be physically enervating and dangerous if not done with caution in mind. According to data from CPSC, 2012 alone saw 15,000 injuries as a result of holiday decorations all over the country [1]. That is roughly about 250 injuries a day. Here’s how you can ensure your spine’s safety:

 

1. Keep Ladder Safety in Mind

According to a study published in the Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, falls from ladders account for 9% of all fall-induced spinal cord injuries. Also, vertebral injuries are more often found to be associated with falls from ladders and buildings [2].

When removing decorations that require a ladder to reach, make sure you have someone around to help keep your stability, especially if you’re outdoors. Something else to mention, always use a ladder to stand for prolonged periods of time, not a chair or desk. Avoid using damaged or worn out ladders.

Furthermore, it’s better to reposition the ladder if something’s out of reach, instead of over-extending the arms and reaching for it. This prevents falls and sprains resulting from hyperextension of the back.

 

2. Use Proper Lifting Techniques

Lifting heavy boxes becomes a routine when putting away holiday decorations, but an improper lifting technique can easily result in a spinal injury [3]. Remember two rules, first lift boxes one at a time, taking care to not “bite off more than you can chew.” Essentially, you should keep a check on the weight of boxes and avoid burdening your body with excessive weight.

Secondly, instead of exerting weight on the spine by bending to lift boxes, flex your knees and hips into a squat position to prevent an injury. Additionally, avoid leaning forward or backward when carrying a heavy load.

It’s always advisable to have the weight as close to the body as possible, to keep it stable. Yet another way of protecting your spine is to tighten the stomach muscles, which ensures the spine is in a safe lifting position.

 

3. Be Vigilant When Removing Electrical Decorations

When removing holiday decorations, make sure you’re well aware of how to handle electrical components because not only can they lead to electrocution, but loose cords can also cause falls that lead to severe spine injuries. Slipping, tripping, and stumbling are the most common causes of fall-induced spinal injuries [2]. Always check for loose wires that could lead to a potentially dangerous fall.

Extension cords should be used with great caution and should be taped to the floor with duct tape or concealed with a cord cover to avoid tripping accidents. Remember to unplug them when not in use and fix them against the wall where they’re clearly visible while you’re working on removing any additional decorations.

 

Spinal injuries shouldn’t be under-estimated. Whether it’s a minor fall or a trip that results in severe back pain, it’s essential to get it investigated by a physician. At Houston Physicians’ Hospital, our doctors are here to provide excellent, effective spinal care for residents in the Clear Lake, Texas area. Give us a call at (281) 557-5620.

 

[1] https://www.cpsc.gov/content/%E2%80%9Cdeck-the-halls%E2%80%9D-safely-cpsc-estimates-more-than-15000-holiday-decorating-injuries-during

 

[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4725788/

 

[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5954586/

Houston Physicians’ Hospital is the first and only facility in Houston and the 18th in the country to be certified as a Hip & Knee Replacement Center recognized by DNV GL Healthcare.

The Hip and Knee Replacement Certification recognizes program excellence in patient care and outcomes, and is based on standards set forth by DNV GL Healthcare and guidelines from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

The team at the Orthopedic Center of Excellence at Houston Physicians’ Hospital “utilizes evidence-based protocols that were developed collaboratively with surgeons, anesthesia, nurses and physical therapists,” said Nicholas Crafts, CEO of Houston Physicians’ Hospital. “We continually enhance our program with a patient-centric approach. We invite patients back and incorporate their feedback to help us improve the program. As a result, Houston Physicians’ Hospital is now performing the most joint replacements in the Clear Lake area.”

Certification as a Hip & Knee Replacement Center validates the hospital’s excellence across the spectrum of hip and knee replacement care, from diagnosis to treatment, rehabilitation, education and outcomes.

“This certification tells our community that we are committed to provide the best possible care for patients requiring a hip or knee replacement with our Orthopedic Center of Excellence,” said Dr. Anthony Melillo, Orthopedic Surgeon at Houston Physicians’ Hospital. “It’s a combination of the right equipment, personnel and training to exhibit excellence in orthopedic surgery. Achieving certification validates the effort we have put into our Orthopedic Center of Excellence to ensure the health, safety and satisfaction of our patients.”

“Achieving certification shows commitment to excellence,” says Patrick Horine, CEO of DNV GL Healthcare. “It helps demonstrate to your community that you are performing at the highest level.”

Houston Physicians’ Hospital also recently earned a 5-star rating for patient experience from CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) and is one of only two in the Houston area to achieve such designation.

Also in 2018, Houston Physicians’ Hospital obtained ISO-9001 certification, which is based on a number of quality management principles, including strong customer focus, the motivation and implication of top management, the process approach and continual improvement.

Robotics is also a demonstration of “our commitment to superior orthopedic outcomes. Several orthopedic physicians utilize the Mako Robot at Houston Physicians’ Hospital, which provides precision planning, rapid recovery and a shorter hospital stay for patients,” said Crafts. “Our surgeons recognized that removing clinical variability was essential to a superior program. It is the most accurate and personalized approach possible to hip and knee replacement surgery, and we are the only hospital in Southeast Houston with a Mako robot.”

The Orthopedic Center of Excellence at Houston Physicians’ Hospital is “truly a one-of-a-kind program that provides an individualized plan with a patient navigator, pre-operative classes and a space-theme competition between patients post-operatively. The program is evidence based and provides some of the best outcomes in the country,” said Crafts.

To find a physician or learn more, visit www.houstonphysicianshospital.com or call 281-972-6451.

 

About Houston Physicians’ Hospital

Located in the Clear Lake area, Houston Physicians’ Hospital is a physician-owned hospital specializing in surgical services, including joint, spine, sports medicine and robotic surgery with a vision to be the healthcare provider where physicians choose to practice, patients want to receive care, and employees prefer to work. Houston Physicians’ Hospital is one of only two 5-star patient experience facilities in Houston rated by CMS, the first and only facility in Houston to earn Hip and Knee Replacement Certification from DNV, recognized as a Center of Distinction by Stryker and recognized in the top 75^th percentile for Joint Replacement, has the only Mako Robot in Southeast Houston for hip and knee surgery, and has the only “Caring Suite” MRI in Southeast Houston for an immersive experience with video, sound and mood lighting. To find a physician or learn more, visit www.houstonphysicianshospital.com.

 

About DNV GL Healthcare

DNV GL is a world-leading certification body that helps businesses assure the performance of their organizations, products, people, facilities and supply chains through certification, verification, assessment, and training services. Within healthcare, DNV GL helps its customers achieve excellence by improving quality and patient safety through hospital accreditation, disease-specific certifications and quality-management training. The DNV GL operates in more than 100 countries. Our 15,000 professionals are dedicated to helping its customers make the world safer, smarter and greener. For more information about DNV GL Healthcare, visit www.dnvglhealthcare.com.

Winter is a wonderful time of the year, with the holiday season and spending time with friends and family. However, it can also pose certain risks that can lead to a fall that causes an orthopedic injury. At Houston Physicians’ Hospital, we understand that no one wants to deal with an orthopedic injury during the holiday season, so we’ve laid out some tips to help you prevent them this winter:

 

1. Stick to Your Exercise Routine

With the stress that often comes along with the holiday season, many people tend to ignore their usual exercise routine during the winter. However, this can weaken your muscles and increase the risk for an orthopedic injury. According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, muscle weakness can cause instability in the knees, hips, and ankles, therefore increasing the risk for a fall. Keep your muscles strong by making sure to get at least 30 minutes of muscle-strengthening exercise into your day.

 

2. Wear the Correct Shoes

Wearing shoes that provide stability and traction is important, especially during the winter when ice may have formed on the ground. Wearing the correct shoes can help prevent a fall that leads to an orthopedic injury. A study published in the journal “Applied Ergonomics” indicated a relationship between lower shoe traction and a higher risk of slipping (2). When purchasing winter footwear, check the sole for tread that can safely grip the ground, even if ice has formed.

 

3. Watch Out for Black Ice

While it is typically thought of as only a roadway problem, black ice can pose a threat for walkers, too. According to the US Forest Service, black ice is not actually black, but rather a clear layer of ice that can easily blend in with pavement and sidewalks. This makes it incredibly difficult to see and avoid. While it’s difficult to see, it is not impossible – keep an eye out for glossy patches when you’re walking and avoid these areas to prevent slipping.

 

4. Wait Until the Afternoon to Go Outside

If at all possible, it’s best to wait to run errands or go outside until the later hours of the morning. This allows any ice that has accumulated to melt and not pose as much of a risk for slipping and falling. According to the journal “Ergonomics,” three-quarters of falls occur between 7 AM and 9 AM (4). Stay safe and avoid an orthopedic injury this winter by waiting until after 9 AM to go outside when possible.

 

No one wants to deal with an orthopedic injury, especially during the holiday season. These tips can help you prevent a potentially dangerous fall. For expert orthopedic services, give Houston Physicians’ Hospital a call at (281) 557-5620. We have the leading orthopedic doctors in Clear Lake, Texas, and the surrounding areas.

Winter is just around the corner, and with the new season comes an increased risk for problems with your respiratory system. When it’s time to enjoy the holiday season with friends and family, no one wants to deal with the hassle of a respiratory infection. As a leading name in ENT doctors for the Clear Lake, Texas, area, Houston Physicians’ Hospital understands the importance of your respiratory healthy during the winter season, so we’ve laid out some tips to help you breathe easy:

 

1. Increase Your Vitamin D Intake

According to the journal Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, studies have suggested that vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of developing respiratory infections (1). Vitamin D is produced in our body when the skin absorbs sunlight. During the winter, getting sunlight can be hard, as the shorter days and colder temperatures decrease the likelihood that people will be outdoors in the sun. A vitamin D supplement can be taken to counteract this problem. Search for a supplement that contains the recommended 2000 IU of vitamin D for adults.

 

 

2. Be Aware of the Air Quality

Air quality is a term used to refer how polluted the air is outside. On days where the air quality is low and there is a high amount of pollution in the air, it is best to stay indoors as much as possible to avoid breathing in contaminated air. According to the American Review of Respiratory Disease, breathing in a high amount of air pollution is a significant predictor of upper respiratory symptoms (2). When the air quality index indicates that there is a high amount of air pollution in the air, be sure to close all windows in your home while staying indoors to prevent any outside air from entering indoors.

 

 

3. Get the Proper Amount of Sleep

The European Journal of Physiology states that sleep is a strong regulator of immunological processes (3). Essentially, this means that not getting enough sleep can weaken the immune system, making your more susceptible to infections of the respiratory system. While adults typically require seven to nine hours of sleep per night, those with extremely active lifestyles may require longer periods of rest for their immune system to stay strong.

 

 

4. Try a Saline Nasal Spray

Europe PubMed Central states that saline nasal irrigation is an effective form of care for patients with a variety of upper respiratory conditions, specifically, rhinosinusitis (sinus infections) (4). A nasal saline spray helps lubricate the membranes in the nose, eliminating thick mucous and allergens from the nasal passage. Saline sprays can be purchased over-the-counter or made at home with a combination of distilled water, salt, and baking soda.

 

Upper respiratory problems are common during the winter season, but these tips can help keep your respiratory system healthy. However, if symptoms do not improve, it’s important to visit an ENT specialist. At Houston Physicians’ Hospital, our ENT doctors are here to help you breathe easy this season. Give us a call at (281) 557-5620 or search for a doctor here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11882-009-0012-7
2. https://www.atsjournals.org/doi/abs/10.1164/ajrccm/145.1.42?journalCode=arrd
3. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00424-011-1044-0
4. https://europepmc.org/articles/pmc2778074

 

The cold weather has arrived here in the Clear Lake, Texas, area, and many people are getting ready to enjoy their favorite cold-weather activities. However, some of these activities can result in an orthopedic injury. At Houston Physicians’ Hospital, we understand that no one wants to miss out on the season because of an injury, so we’ve laid out some tips about protecting your bones while doing cold-weather activities:

 

1. Raking Leaves

This common seasonal chore can end up causing an orthopedic injury. Bending over for long periods of time to rake the leaves out of your yard can quickly lead to over-exertion which, in turn, can cause pain in several areas of the body. According to the Anne Arundel Medical Center, doctors treated over 42,000 raking-related injuries in 2014, and many are a result of over-exertion (1). To avoid an orthopedic injury while doing this essential activity this season, be sure to take several breaks and stretch your body for 10 minutes once you’re done. This helps keep the muscles loose and prevents an over-exertion injury.

 

 

2. Driving

This season often brings an increased number of cars on the road, with people traveling for the holidays and holiday shopping. The additional traffic can leave you at risk for being involved in a collision as you drive which can lead to a potentially severe orthopedic injury. The Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery states that there is a high rate of severe hip dislocations that occur in motor vehicle collisions (2). This is often the result of slick roads and the increased amount of people on the road. Be sure to always remain alert when driving, and always adapt your driving habits when roadway conditions are rough.

 

 

3. Slipping on Icy Surfaces

The first freeze of the season has already arrived, and we’re in for more cold weather as fall turns into winter. Because of this, ice forming on surfaces such as sidewalks or driveways can pose a risk for a fall that results in an orthopedic injury. When conditions are right for ice, be sure to take some safety measures that will prevent a fall. The journal, Accident Analysis and Prevention, suggests using shoes that are slip-preventative which can help reduce the risk of injury and can result in less severe consequences if a fall does occur (3).

 

 

4. Playing Cold-Weather Sports

Whether you enjoy playing a game of football with your family on Thanksgiving, or you are a member of a seasonal sports team, it’s important to keep the safety of your bones in mind. The best way to protect your bones when playing sports this season is to use the proper safety gear. This can protect your bones from falls and other sports-related trauma and prevent an orthopedic injury from occurring.

 

The cold weather is here, but it doesn’t mean that your bones have to suffer this season. As a leading orthopedic hospital for Webster, Texas, and the surrounding areas, Houston Physicians’ Hospital can take care of all of your orthopedic treatment needs this season. Give us a call at (281) 557-5620, or find a physician here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. https://living.aahs.org/womens-health/dont-let-raking-leaves-become-a-pain-in-the-neck-back-or-spine/

 

2. https://journals.lww.com/jtrauma/Abstract/1999/07000/Severity_of_Injuries_Associated_with_Traumatic_Hip.14.aspx

 

3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0001457596000747

 

4. https://www.upmcphysicianresources.com/-/media/physicianresources/pdf-publications/orthopaedic-surgery/t410ortho_grand_rounds_winter_2018_03.pdf