Independence Ear, Nose, and Throat

02/04/2026

Most sore throats are harmless and resolve on their own—but not all of them. This article explains when a sore throat may signal something more serious and when it’s time to seek evaluation from an our specialists.

A sore throat is an incredibly common symptom of a wide variety of illnesses. How do you know when a sore throat is an indication of something more serious?

02/02/2026

If thyroid surgery has been recommended, asking the right questions can help you feel informed and confident. This article outlines important topics to discuss with our team, from surgical options to recovery expectations.

The thyroid gland, a vital organ roughly two inches in size, plays a vital part in the production, storage, and release of hormones into the bloodstream

01/30/2026

Chronic nasal congestion, sinus pressure, or loss of smell may be signs of nasal polyps. When symptoms persist, surgery may be recommended. This article explains what patients can expect before, during, and after nasal polyp surgery.

Nasal polyps are fairly common, often going unnoticed when they are of small size. These non-cancerous growths, typically adopting a tear-dropped shape,

01/28/2026

Snoring isn’t always harmless. In some cases, it can be a sign of sleep apnea—a condition that affects breathing during sleep and overall health. This article outlines the symptoms to watch for and when to seek care.

It's common to joke about snoring, comparing it to buzzsaws and the need for earplugs. However, snoring can actually indicate a serious medical condition

01/26/2026

Ear pain can range from mild discomfort to severe and persistent pain. While some cases resolve on their own, others require expert care. This article explains common causes of ear pain and when it’s time to see an ENT specialist.

If you're suffering from ear pain and haven't found relief, you may be wondering if it's time to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. An ENT

01/23/2026

Painful swallowing can be uncomfortable and sometimes concerning. While it may resolve on its own, persistent symptoms can signal an underlying condition. This article explains common causes and when it’s time to see an ENT specialist.

Many of us have experienced the discomfort of painful swallowing at some point. During our childhood, our mothers often attributed it to something going

01/21/2026

If your sinus infection seems to linger for weeks or keeps coming back, there may be an underlying cause beyond a common cold. This article explains why sinus infections don’t always resolve on their own and when it’s time to seek expert care.

Sinus infections, or sinusitis, can be more than just an occasional annoyance. For some individuals, these infections persist for weeks, or return

01/19/2026

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” — Martin Luther King Jr. Today, we honor his legacy and commitment to service.

01/16/2026

Chronic nasal congestion isn’t always caused by allergies or a cold. A deviated septum can make breathing through your nose difficult year-round. This article explains the signs to watch for and when it’s time to see an ENT specialist.

Do you find yourself always feeling like you have nasal congestion? Does your nose always seem to be running twelve months out of the year? Could it be a

01/14/2026

Recurring vertigo, ringing in the ears, or a feeling of fullness in the ear can be disruptive and concerning. These may be signs of Meniere’s disease. This article explains what the condition is, how it affects the inner ear, and the treatment options available.

There’s no cure for Meniere’s disease, but that doesn’t mean that some symptoms of this chronic ear disorder can’t be treated.

01/12/2026

Ear infections are common in childhood—but when they happen often, they can affect hearing and development. Learn the key signs that may indicate your child could benefit from ear tubes and what parents can expect from the procedure. Read the full article to stay informed.

Ear tube surgery is one of the most common procedures performed by ENT specialists for children in the United States each year. If you’re worried that

01/09/2026

Sudden ear pain, fluid drainage, or hearing loss? You may be dealing with a ruptured eardrum. Learn the causes, symptoms, and treatments here:

A ruptured eardrum can be a concerning condition, yet some people may not even realize they have one due to a lack of obvious symptoms. Understanding the