Blog Archive
Feeling exhausted, gaining weight, and sensitive to the cold? Or perhaps the opposite: restless, sweaty, and always on edge? These may be signs of a thyroid condition, which affects approximately 20 million Americans. Ear, nose, and throat specialist Vandana Kumra, MD, provides expert diagnosis and treatment for thyroid disorders at...
There’s nothing quite like the achy, throbbing pressure of a sinus headache. While these painful headaches are common symptoms of sinus infections, colds, or allergies, persistent sinus headaches may indicate a deeper medical issue. At ENT New York, board-certified otolaryngologist Vandana Kumra, MD, specializes in minimally invasive nasal and sinus...
Does it always feel like you’re breathing through a straw? While a short-lived stuffy nose typically indicates a minor illness, one that lingers for weeks or months may be a sign of an underlying medical problem. At ENT New York, board-certified otolaryngologist Vandana Kumra, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating...
If the mere thought of summer leaves you miserable and reaching for the tissue, you’re not alone. Allergies can cause problems all year, but they’re becoming an increasingly bigger problem during warmer seasons, including summer. And there’s a reason for it. Dr. Vandana Kumra regularly sees people struggling with allergies...
People often associate sleep apnea with loud snoring or choking and gasping during sleep. However, there’s another very common sign of this condition — and it occurs during your waking hours. Fatigue. But why? Dr. Vandana Kumra offers sleep apnea services at her ENT practice in New York City. In...
Most people have had an ear infection at some point during their lifetime. However, they may not remember it. That’s because 5 in 6 children develop an ear infection by age 3. But what if they become a recurring problem? Or, worse yet, you end up with ear infections as...
Living with sinus problems from time to time is bad enough, but when they become a chronic problem, they can be downright miserable. Signs of chronic sinusitis often include: Nasal congestion A runny nose Mucus draining down the throat (postnasal drip) Tenderness, pain, or swelling around the nose, cheeks, eyes,...
The human body can’t function properly without hormones. These essential chemicals coordinate everything so your body knows precisely what to do and when to do it. So far, experts have successfully identified more than 50 hormones involved in numerous bodily processes, such as: Growth and development Sexual function and reproduction...
People often expect certain changes as they age, like fine lines and wrinkles. However, those involving their voice usually come as a surprise. While it’s natural to experience age-related voice changes, they can negatively impact daily life. In fact, when communication becomes difficult, it can cause social withdrawal, isolation, and...
It’s hard to resist the allure of spring, especially after a long winter. However, people with allergies often anticipate the season with trepidation. That’s because this time of year can be ruthless for people with seasonal allergies. But you don’t have to be miserable. Dr. Vandana Kumra knows springtime allergies...
It’s no secret that sleep apnea interferes with your ability to get quality rest. However, this disorder jeopardizes your health in even more ways, especially your heart. Unfortunately, many people with sleep apnea either don’t realize they have the condition or put off treatment, thinking it isn’t very serious. But...
Most people consider hearing loss an inevitable part of aging. However, this widespread problem can affect anyone at any age, even children, young adults, and those in middle age. Studies show that over 30 million Americans 18 and older have hearing problems, and 1 in 8 ages 12 or older...
Sleep apnea is a widespread problem. It’s so common that you probably know someone with the condition — it could even be you. Since sleep apnea stops your breathing while sleeping, it can seriously jeopardize your health without treatment. Complications associated with sleep apnea include: Increased risk of accidents from...
Did you know that up to 80% of Americans have a deviated septum? This issue occurs when the bone and cartilage that divides your nasal cavity in two is off-center. The good news is that this doesn’t cause many problems for most people. In fact, you can have a deviated...
Lumps can pop up on the body for a variety of reasons. When they form on the neck, they can stem from anything, like a viral infection or an abnormal growth of cancerous tissue, so it’s important to see an expert like Dr. Vandana Kumra for an accurate diagnosis. As an ear,...
The vocal cords rank high among the body parts most often taken for granted. These two bands of muscle and tissue sit inside your voice box and produce sound by coming together and vibrating. That also means these sounds can change when they can’t function properly, like when vocal cord...
Ear infections are a common problem in children, yet they can still strike in adulthood. And if they become a recurring issue, they can lead to serious complications, like impaired hearing. Fortunately, there are ways to spot an ear infection so you can get treatment and avoid ongoing trouble. Dr. Vandana Kumra at ENT...
Hearing problems are a common problem. In fact, hearing loss affects approximately 14% of Americans and more than half of those over 75, making hearing loss twice as common as cancer or diabetes. But there’s good news — many forms of hearing loss respond to treatment. Dr. Vandana Kumra understands the causes behind hearing loss and...
Allergies may be a widespread problem, but that doesn’t make them easier to live with. It can also be tricky to identify the source of your reaction. Fortunately, an allergy consultation can remove the guesswork from the situation so you can find the best course of action to relieve your...
People often talk about sleep apnea as if every diagnosis is the same. However, this sleep disorder can occur for various reasons and can range in severity. What everyone with sleep apnea does have in common is the fact that they stop breathing in their sleep, which keeps them from getting the oxygen they...
No one looks forward to taking a test, especially when it has to do with your health and wellness. However, hearing evaluations are the best way to identify and treat hearing changes, including hearing loss. Hearing loss is a common problem impacting around 48 million adults in the United States...
Most people have spent an evening yelling at the top of their lungs at an event, only to wake up the next morning sounding hoarse. But misusing or overusing your voice isn’t the only cause of vocal changes. The sound you make when you speak originates in your voice box...
Do you wake up with a painful or scratchy throat? Does it ever burn when you swallow or leave you feeling hoarse? If you struggle with these persistent problems in the morning, it’s time to look for answers — and that’s where Dr. Vandana Kumra can help. As an ENT in New York...
It’s hard not to panic when you find a bump or lump on your body, especially if you find it on your neck. After all, it has to be cancer, right? Not necessarily. But you should still take it seriously and schedule a consultation with an expert like Dr. Vandana...
It’s hard to believe that one small gland can play such a significant role in your overall health and wellness, but that’s how things work with your thyroid gland, and it all comes down to hormones. The thyroid gland is only about 2 inches wide and weighs 20-60 grams. For...
Most people have had an earache or infection at some point in their life. However, in some cases, this issue can become chronic. But why? Dr. Vandana Kumra has the skill and experience to diagnose and treat ear conditions in patients of all ages, from children to adults. If you...
Everyone has sinus trouble from time to time. But for some, these annoying symptoms can become ongoing problems. When your sinuses function properly, they release a thin mucus that drains from your nose. This process works like a filtration system, flushing bacteria from the area. But the sinuses can also...
Your sinuses may be small, but they can cause plenty of misery. Each year, approximately 29 million American adults have sinus infections that develop when these air-filled pockets become inflamed and filled with fluid. But infections aren’t the only problem that can lead to blockages and sinus discomfort. Dr. Vandana Kumra treats nasal...
Earwax may seem kind of gross, especially since it’s typically sticky and brown. However, it serves an important role, so it’s best to leave it alone unless problems arise. Dr. Vandana Kumra has been in private practice since 1998, providing compassionate and comprehensive ear, nose, and throat care to people in...
No one wants to live with a hoarse, scratchy voice, especially if it involves neck pain. But, if your symptoms develop because of a throat polyp, there are numerous solutions to get you back to normal again. Dr. Vandana Kumra has spent more than 15 years delivering patient-centric ear, nose, and...
No one wants to hear they need a medical test. But the good news is that a nasal endoscopy is a straightforward procedure performed in your doctor’s office, and it doesn’t require any down time. Nasal endoscopy can help with problems, like: Nasal blockages and congestion Nasal polyps and tumors...
Approximately 5% of Americans have a goiter, an issue that occurs when the thyroid gland becomes enlarged. This gland sits at the base of your neck, below your Adam’s apple, and makes hormones involved in many important bodily functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, and metabolism. Because of this, it’s essential to see a...
You’ve likely heard the word “thyroid” before. But do you really know what it does? This tiny gland in the front of your neck wraps around your windpipe, creating and releasing the hormones your body needs to do specific things, including many vital functions. In fact, it plays such an...
If you’ve ever had a head cold or sinus infection, you know firsthand the pain and discomfort they can cause. Now, imagine your symptoms lasted for 12 weeks or longer, a condition known as chronic sinusitis. Approximately 4.1 million office visits occur each year in the United States because of...
We often toss around the term “sleep apnea” as if there’s only one form of the condition. While sleep apnea is indeed a disorder that stops your breathing, there are different types that cause this to occur for specific reasons. As an experienced ENT in New York, Dr. Vandana Kumra...
When you have an allergy, your immune system misinterprets something harmless as a threat. This response can occur because of something you inhale, touch, or ingest. And whatever causes your reaction refers to an allergen. Over 50 million Americans experience some type of allergy each year, because people can have...
The adenoid glands sit high up in the throat behind the nose and roof of the mouth. This location earns them an important job: they catch germs that enter your nose before they can cause an illness. But, sometimes, they can also be a problem, especially in children. Dr. Vandana...
Ear infections are often associated with kids, but adults can get them, too. Whether you’re a child or an adult, ear infections are no fun, especially when they become an ongoing problem. Signs of an ear infection include: Pressure, discomfort, or mild pain in the ear Fluid or pus-like drainage...
Has anyone ever told you that you snore loudly? Do you have difficulty concentrating, or do you feel groggy and poorly rested? These are just a few signs of sleep apnea, a disorder that describes pauses in breathing while you sleep. At ENT New York, Dr. Vandana Kumra has extensive...
Swimmer’s ear describes an infection in the outer ear canal, often leaving a visible area that appears red and sore. The ear canal connects the opening of your ear to the eardrum. And, if water stays in this narrow channel, bacteria can grow, leading to swelling, irritation, or infection —...
Allergies are one of the most common chronic illnesses in the United States. In fact, over 50 million Americans suffer from allergies in some form every year. For being such a common occurrence, allergies are often overlooked. Over time, you may even develop allergies to things that you were previously...
As a child, you likely took a hearing exam at some point when you were in school. You may remember feeling excited that you were missing class to take a test that has nothing to do with your spelling words that week. The significance of those tests may not have...
Your vocal cords are more important than you may think. The ability to speak is just one of the functions your vocal cords provide. Understanding their duties and importance can help you keep them healthy. That’s why the healthcare professionals at ENT New York are giving you a closer look...
The sense of hearing is such a gift. There’s nothing quite like listening to your favorite song or hearing the voice of a loved one. In a more practical sense, being able to hear keeps us safe from potential dangers, like an oncoming train, and lets us know when to...
You use your voice every day for myriad reasons, from communicating your needs to singing your favorite songs in the car. When those abilities are hindered by blockages or damage, it can be extremely disruptive. Vocal health is so important, which is why our team at ENT New York offers...
Discovering a lump in your neck can be jarring. Your first instinct is likely to panic, but don’t do that just yet — most neck masses are benign, or noncancerous. That being said, it’s important to have the mass checked out by your doctor in order to determine the underlying...
If you suffer from chronic sinus problems, sinus surgery could be the answer you’ve been looking for. But don’t let the word “surgery” fool you. Most of the time, sinus surgery is minimally invasive, meaning there’s less cutting and bleeding so you recover faster. You’ll even go home afterwards unless...
A voice or throat evaluation can uncover everything from harmless polyps to cancer. So, if you’ve had a lingering sore throat or hoarse voice for weeks, it’s time to get checked out by our experienced ear, nose, and throat doctor, Vandana Kumra of ENT New York. She sees patients with...
Are you tired of having allergic reactions without knowing exactly what’s causing them? Are allergy symptoms like watery or puffy eyes and itchy skin driving you nuts? Maybe you already take over-the-counter allergy medicine but still can’t get any relief. It’s time to stop feeling miserable! Dr. Vandana Kumra of...
Adults and children can get ear infections from bacteria or viruses like the common cold. They’re very common and treatable. But, what can you do if your child is too young to tell you their ear hurts? Dr. Vandana Kumra of ENT New York offers this advice to parents. What...
Hearing naturally declines as we age, but hearing loss could also be caused by exposure to loud noises over time. Maybe you think everything is fine, but a friend or loved one mentioned you should get your hearing checked. Sound like you? It may be time for a hearing assessment....
The thyroid gland plays an important role in regulating metabolism, or how the body processes food into energy. When the thyroid is underactive or overactive, problems can develop that affect your overall health and wellness. Sometimes, an early sign of a problem is a goiter or an abnormally large thyroid...
Hello valued patients! As NYC and the tri-state area enters phase 3 of reopening, Dr. Kumra continues to be here for you. We are adapting to these great changes and working to maintain the same great, high-quality patient care, while simultaneously, ensuring your safety in our office. As we continue...
The symptoms of thyroid dysfunction differ for an underactive thyroid — called hypothyroidism, and an overactive thyroid — called hyperthyroidism. About 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, so it’s very common and treatable. Dr. Vandana Kumra of ENT New York is an ear, nose, and throat specialist...
Hello patients and friends- I wanted to give you all an update on the current plan to start seeing patients in my office again. For the past six weeks, I have mainly been seeing patients through video chat or over the phone, with a few exceptions for urgent problems. It...
What is Telemedicine?Telemedicine refers to the practice of caring for patients remotely when the provider and patient are not physically present with each other. Modern technology has enabled doctors to consult patients by using HIPAA compliant video-conferencing tools.Benefits to utilizing Telemedicine.As a result of the current situation - sheltering in...
Snoring can be a nuisance to your bedmate and maybe even something you joke about, But, if one of you has sleep apnea, it’s not something to take lightly. The snoring and snorting and gasping for breath can be dangerous if not treated. Dr. Vandana Kumra of ENT New York...
Have you ever heard of a deviated septum? It’s a common condition that could be making it harder for you to breathe and lead to other health problems. Dr. Vandana Kumra of ENT New York is an ear, nose, and throat specialist who treats patients of all ages with a...
Many of us have experienced a sore throat with a bad cold, cough, allergies, or postnasal drip. These conditions are common and can make you miserable. But, do you ever give your throat a second thought after you finish your homemade chicken soup and are feeling better? Dr. Vandana Kumra,...
Toothaches are more than just painful; they're worrying. No one likes having to go to the dentist, and no one likes having cavities or damaged teeth. But the cause of toothaches isn't always related to the teeth themselves. Your teeth lie dangerously close to your sinuses, which can cause pain...
Your body has a way of telling you when you’ve eaten more than your stomach can handle: Abdominal pain, bloating, and belching are quick to follow, along with a burning sensation in your chest and throat and the unpleasant taste of acid in your mouth. While virtually everyone experiences heartburn...
If you’re getting ready to have sinus surgery, you might be feeling anxious or even scared. Don’t be; thanks to a large number of technological advances over the last few decades, this procedure is minimally invasive in many instances. In fact, recovery is even faster than it once was, causing...
If you have small children, the odds are good that you’ve encountered an ear infection or two. In fact, three out of four infants have an ear infection by the time they’re 3 years old, and many experience multiple infections during this time. If you’re wondering why there’s such a...
Is your snoring keeping your spouse up at night? Before you look into getting separate beds or rooms, you should seek an evaluation for sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder affecting about 18 million Americans. The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive. If left untreated,...
If your thyroid gland isn’t working quite right, this could lead to lots of problems. Your thyroid produces important hormones that regulate many functions in your body. If your thyroid is having problems, you could experience weight gain, a lack of energy, mood challenges, and other symptoms. If you suspect...
Lumps or masses in your neck can have a number of origins, ranging from the benign to the concerning. A neck lump could be nothing serious, or it could signal the development of a serious condition like cancer. Benign neck masses occur frequently in children. Even if you think your...
Whether you're dealing with bees in the garden, mosquitoes by the beach, or bedbugs in your home, stinging insects cause pain, irritation, and inconvenience. If you're allergic to insect bites, a sting can be a serious problem, necessitating medication or a trip to the doctor. Dr. Vandana Kumra, MD, one...
If you find yourself waking up tired after what you thought was a full night’s sleep, or know you are snoring loudly, you may have sleep apnea — when you stop breathing during sleep or when your breathing is partially or fully blocked. Clearly this can be a dangerous thing...
Most of us grew up with a parent who suggested, on more than one occasion, that we should have our hearing checked. Selective hearing aside, hearing loss is a clear and present danger and affects 48 million people in the United States, of all ages, though it’s more prevalent among...
Sneezing? Check. Sniffling? Check. Red, watery eyes? Check. It must be spring allergy season. The good news is there are steps you can take to reduce the misery that accompanies it. With a yearly price tag of over $18 billion and the dubious distinction of placing sixth on the list...
Chronic sinusitis can make your life miserable, and when common treatments fail to control your symptoms, you may wonder where else to turn. Balloon sinuplasty may be the answer. Chances are, you haven’t heard of this procedure before or what you’ve heard may be confusing. One thing you should know:...
According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology, nearly 8% of U.S. adults have hay fever and as many as 30% of people have allergic rhinitis. Nearly 9% of teenagers are living with a food allergy that makes them vulnerable to potentially deadly anaphylactic shock. Nearly 40% of children have...
Ear tubes, technically called tympanostomy tubes, are small plastic (sometimes metal) tubes that are surgically inserted into the eardrum. This provides a channel for air, allowing it to flow freely into and out of your child's middle ear, effectively preventing most ear infections. While tube insertion is a very low-risk,...
True or false: If you snore, you must have obstructive sleep apnea. The answer: False. Plenty of people snore, but not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. Snoring can be caused by lots of issues, including colds, allergies, and even the structure of your nose and sinuses. Here’s another one...
Traditional surgery for sinusitis involves cutting, the removal of bone and tissue, and a lengthy recovery time for patients. That is why so many people are curious about Balloon Sinuplasty (BSP), which is a minimally-invasive outpatient procedure. Given the fact that sinuplasty is so effective and non-invasive, a lot of...
The National Institutes of Health estimates that for every 1,000 babies born in the United States, 2-3 have some level of hearing loss in one or both ears. Although your child got an all-clear at the hospital, and passed their last hearing test, too, you’ve noticed some changes that have...
There are many medications available that do a good job of controlling the periodic itching, sneezing, watery eyes, and other symptoms caused by allergies. But when you’re forced to spend entire seasons hiding from pollen or have year-round issues that keep you feeling miserable more days than not, immunotherapy that...
Whether your child is on a swim team or just loves the pool, they can develop an infection known as swimmer’s ear, which is a painful condition caused by water remaining in the ear when they get out of the pool.What is swimmer’s ear and why does it occur?Swimmer’s ear...