<ul class="summary-list"><li>Gleycy Correia, a former Brazilian beauty queen, has died at age 27 after months in a coma. </li><li>In March, she underwent a tonsilectomy, and subsequently suffered bleeding and <keyword id="11899495" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="cardiac-arrest" source="Orion">cardiac arrest</keyword>. </li></ul>A Brazilian beauty queen died Monday, months after she underwent a routine tonsil surgery, <a href="https://nypost.com/2022/06/21/miss-brazil-dead-at-27-following-routine-tonsil-surgery/">the New York Post reported</a>. 27-year-old Gleycy Correia, who was crowned Miss United Continents <keyword id="11929845" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="brazil" source="Orion">Brazil</keyword> in 2018, reportedly went in for the procedure in late March and suffered a hemorrhage five days later, <a href="https://www.the-sun.com/news/5606740/miss-brazil-beauty-queen-tonsil-surgery/">her family's priest said</a>, according to The Sun and <a href="https://affiliate.insider.com?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mirror.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fworld-news%2Fmiss-brazil-dies-aged-just-27288124">The Mirror</a>. On April 4, she went into cardiac arrest and fell into a coma until her death June 20, the priest said. "God chose this day to collect our princess. We know that she will be greatly missed, but she will now be brightening the sky with her smile," he said, according to the reports. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px); data.width~540;"><div style="padding:8px;"><div style="background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:62.4537037037% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"><div style="background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cb3DvTXO_ZU" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank"></a> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by Gleycy Correia PMU (@gleycycorreia)<time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime=""></time></div></blockquote>It's unclear if the procedure directly caused the bleeding, cardiac arrest, and death. An autopsy report is pending, the outlets wrote. <h2>Serious complications from tonsillectomies are rare </h2>The <keyword id="13197940" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="tonsils" source="Orion">tonsils</keyword> help prevent bacteria and viruses from entering the mouth, but they can also become inflamed and infected— also known as tonsillitis, <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tonsillectomy/about/pac-20395141#:~:text=Tonsillectomy%2C%20like%20other%20surgeries%2C%20has,without%20the%20risk%20of%20death.">the Mayo Clinic says</a>. People who have tonsillitis frequently and don't respond to other treatments may opt to get theirs removed via <keyword id="14255261" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="tonsillectomy" source="Orion">tonsillectomy</keyword>.Enlarged tonsils can also obstruct breathing and interfere with good sleep, hence another reason to get them removed. It's unclear why Correia sought a tonsillectomy. The procedure is most common in children, and its risks and benefits <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health-news/removing-childs-tonsils-may-do-more-harm#Not-as-common-anymore">increasingly debated</a>.In adults, tonsilectomies are generally safe, with only 1.2% of patients experiencing complications and 0.03% dying within 30 days, according to <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/fullarticle/1814414#:~:text=Conclusions%20and%20Relevance%20In%20the,with%20the%20need%20for%20reoperation.">a 2014 analysis of nearly 6,000 tonsillectomy patients</a>. The most common complications were infections like pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and those at the site of the surgery.Bleeding during the healing process is also possible, <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tonsillectomy/about/pac-20395141#:~:text=Tonsillectomy%2C%20like%20other%20surgeries%2C%20has,without%20the%20risk%20of%20death.">according to the Mayo Clinic.</a>Like any intense stress on the body, severe bleeding can cause cardiac arrest — or when the heart suddenly stops beating, according to the National Library of Medicine's <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007640.htm">Medline Plus</a>. That often leads to unconsciousness due to the lack of blood flow to the brain, and is deadly if not treated promptly.

Former Miss Brazil has died at age 27 following a routine tonsil surgery, report says

<ul class="summary-list"><li>While removing your tonsils may ease sore throat symptoms, you can still get <keyword id="851430" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="strep-throat">strep throat</keyword> without them. </li><li>For someone who gets frequent strep infections, a doctor may recommend a <keyword id="3209145" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Tonsillectomy">tonsillectomy</keyword>, though this procedure isn't always worth it to resolve a strep throat. </li><li>This article <a href="https://www.insider.com/insider-medical-review-board" target="_blank" rel="noopener">was medically reviewed</a> by <a href="https://health.tamu.edu/experts/jason-mcknight.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jason R. McKnight</a>, MD, MS, a family medicine physician and clinical assistant professor at <a href="https://medicine.tamu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Texas A&amp;M College of Medicine</a>. </li></ul>Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that causes swelling and pain in the throat, often making it hard to swallow. For those who are prone to frequent strep infections, a doctor may recommend a tonsillectomy — a surgical procedure to remove tonsils. While a tonsillectomy may relieve symptoms of a swollen throat, it doesn't mean you're immune to a strep throat infection. It is still possible to get strep even without your tonsils. <h2>Yes, you can get strep throat without tonsils</h2>Even if you've had your tonsils removed, you can still become sick with strep throat. That's because the bacteria that causes strep, called Group A. Streptococcus, is still able to populate the tissues in the back of your throat even without your tonsils. The advantage of having your tonsils removed is that your sore throat symptoms will probably be less severe, says Rob Darzynkiewicz, MD, Chief Medical Officer at <a href="https://hazel.co/providers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hazel Health</a>, a healthcare service that provides students with on-demand doctor visits via telemedicine. However, just because a tonsillectomy provides symptom relief, does not mean it reduces the frequency of strep throat infections.Since the <a href="https://www.entnet.org/content/tonsillectomy-facts-us-ent-doctors" target="_blank" rel="noopener">1970s</a>, the number of tonsillectomies in the US have significantly and progressively declined, with the majority now being done for obstructive sleep problems rather than recurring tonsillitis (sore throat). A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7075105/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2014 review</a> published in the Cochrane Database involving 987 children found that a tonsillectomy prevented an average of just one less sore throat a year, compared to those who didn't have their tonsils removed. The same review concluded that adults should also typically forego a tonsillectomy for tonsillitis, because its minimal benefits in easing sore throat symptoms do not outweigh the pain of the procedure — which is <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7075105/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">especially uncomfortable</a> in adults. <h2>When you should consider a tonsillectomy</h2>The pros and cons of tonsillectomy vary depending on a patient's needs. "If the throat infections significantly affect the patient's life, for example a child missing school often, surgery may be recommended," says Darzynkiewicz. "On the other hand, throat infections naturally decline as a child ages, so a doctor may recommend monitoring the patient closely over time and treating infections with antibiotics to avoid surgery." Like every surgery, Darzynkiewicz says a tonsillectomy carries a risk of bleeding, pain, secondary infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Therefore, it should be a last resort procedure when it comes to recurring tonsillitis. A tonsillectomy may be suggested as treatment for a child who has what are defined as "<a href="https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/110/1/7.short" target="_blank" rel="noopener">frequent</a>" throat infections. Those who have more than seven strep throat infections in the span of one year or more than five over the span of two years, would fall into the "frequent" category. <h2>How do you get strep throat? </h2>When someone has strep throat, the bacteria responsible <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/strep-throat.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">lives</a> in their nose and throat, whether or not they have tonsils. Strep is <a href="https://www.insider.com/is-strep-throat-contagious" target="_blank" rel="noopener">spread</a> through infected droplets in the air, from talking or sneezing, or through saliva left on surfaces like a handrail. That makes it possible to catch strep without coming into direct contact with an infected person. Touching a shared surface, such as a doorknob or table, and then touching your mouth or eyes is all it takes for transmission to occur, Darzynkiewicz says. Sharing drinks and personal items can also spread strep. Children are more likely to engage in these behaviors, which is part of the reason why <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/strep-throat.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">school-aged children and their teachers</a> get infected at higher rates than the rest of the population.To prevent infection, be sure to <a href="https://www.insider.com/best-disinfectants-for-viruses" target="_blank" rel="noopener">disinfect</a> surfaces and <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-long-should-you-wash-your-hands" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wash your hands properly</a>. For more information, read about <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-to-kill-germs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">how to kill germs</a> and reduce your risk of illness. <h2>Symptoms of strep throat </h2>Even if you have had your tonsils removed, you can still experience symptoms of strep throat. According to the <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/strep-throat/symptoms-causes/syc-20350338" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mayo Clinic</a>, these symptoms can include: <ul><li>Scratchy, painful throat</li><li>Swollen lymph nodes</li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/what-causes-fever" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fever</a> </li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/home-remedies-for-nausea" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nausea</a></li><li>Difficulty swallowing </li><li>Red or white patches on the inside of the throat </li></ul>One of the tell-tale indications that you do not have strep throat is a <a href="https://www.insider.com/home-remedies-for-cough" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cough</a>, as it's more typical of a viral infection, says Darzynkiewicz.When you go to the doctor with a sore throat, the first thing they will do is take your vital signs. Abnormal vital signs, like a fever, can be the first clue that you have an infection. Your care provider will then perform a physical exam, looking for signs and symptoms such as enlarged tonsils, redness or white patches on your throat, or swollen lymph nodes.If symptoms of strep are identified, your doctor might swab your tonsils and throat for a fluid sample to test for strep. Darzynkiewicz says doctors usually swab your throat twice. That's because the first swab will be used for a rapid test which can give results within 15 minutes. Rapid tests check for proteins called antigens that indicate the presence of strep bacteria. If the test is positive, antibiotic treatment can start right away. However, if your rapid test is negative and your doctor still suspects you have strep, they will use the second swab for a throat culture test, says Darzynkiewicz. Then lab techs will wait for bacteria to grow on the swab before checking it under a microscope for strep. While this test takes more time than a rapid test, it sometimes <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/strep-throat.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">catches strep infections the first test misses</a>. <h2>How to get rid of strep throat</h2>You should see your doctor if you suspect you or your child has strep throat. While symptoms of strep throat can sometimes be resolved with at-home treatment, there's a risk of serious complications from an untreated strep infection.According to Darzynkiewicz, secondary complications from strep include a throat abscess where strep bacteria spreads past your tonsils and into your throat or acute <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/rheumatic-fever.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">rheumatic fever</a> which can cause long-term heart damage. Strep bacteria can also travel to the kidneys if left untreated <a href="https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/childhood-infections-kidney-disease" target="_blank" rel="noopener">leading to kidney inflammation</a> and possible damage. While you wait to get tested for strep, you may want to <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-to-treat-strep-throat" target="_blank" rel="noopener">manage symptoms</a> with an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). Once you are diagnosed, strep is most often treated with <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-antibiotics-work" target="_blank" rel="noopener">antibiotics.</a> Oral antibiotics can manage symptoms and control your ability to transmit the infection to others, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/strep-throat.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">usually within 48 hours</a>. Even if you don't have tonsils, an antibiotic will still be recommended. <h2>The bottom line</h2>It is possible to get strep throat even if you've had your tonsils removed. If you are someone who experiences frequent strep throat infections, a tonsillectomy may reduce symptoms of a sore throat, but sometimes the risks outweigh the benefits.<h2>Related articles from <a href="https://www.insider.com/health-reference" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Health Reference</a>:</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/how-to-kill-germs">How to kill germs: Everything you need to know to protect you and your loved ones from infection</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/is-strep-throat-contagious" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Is strep throat contagious? Yes, here's how it spreads and signs you may have it</a> </li></ul>

Yes, you can still get strep throat even if your tonsils are removed

<ul class="summary-list"><li>After learning I had breast cancer, I had a double mastectomy in January at the age of 34.</li><li>In the first few weeks of recovery, something felt wrong in my right arm. </li></ul>This past December, I found out I had a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/breast-cancer-double-mastectomy-health-editor-2022-12">form of breast cancer</a> called ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS, in my right breast. I have the BRCA2 gene mutation, and after 10 years of preventive screenings, the timeline for the mastectomy I'd been planning on getting in my early 40s was sped up, and the surgery would no longer be preventive. I was 34 and the surgery would be to remove already-existing cancer.It all happened so quickly. One day, I was getting a routine preventive mammogram, then suddenly, I was getting a biopsy, and a week later, I got a call telling me I had cancer. There was a lot of information to process at once. I had to decide between a lumpectomy and a mastectomy (I chose the latter). Next, I had to decide whether to get a unilateral or <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/i-had-a-preventative-double-mastectomy-age-25-2022-10">bilateral mastectomy</a>. Then, I had to choose both a breast and plastic surgeon. My head was spinning, and it was hard to believe it was real.While explaining my upcoming surgery and risks, my breast surgeon mentioned that she'd be removing one lymph node from the same side they'd found cancer to see if it had spread to the lymphatic system. I was told that when lymph nodes are removed, there's a risk of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/survivors/patients/lymphedema.htm">lymphedema</a>, swelling due to a buildup of lymph fluid in the body, and something called cording, which wasn't really explained. I simply nodded, and we scheduled my surgery for January.I had never had major surgery before — just a tonsillectomy at age 7 and my wisdom teeth removed at 14 — so I had no real frame of reference for how I'd handle a double mastectomy. No matter what my doctors told me about pain scales or potential complications, no matter how much I read about the experiences of others, there was nothing that could truly prepare me — especially when I experienced cording, something that's <a target="_blank" href="https://karger.com/brc/article/13/2/129/53453/Axillary-Web-Syndrome-in-Breast-Cancer-A-Prevalent">understudied and often overlooked.</a><h2>I didn't realize I had cording at first</h2>When I woke up after my surgery, I was shocked that my chest was fairly numb. I was sore on my sides where the tubes for my drains were coming out, and both arms were sore — especially my right one — though I assumed that was normal. Nurses were in and out of the room, checking with my partner and me to ensure we had what we needed, and I had a fitful night of sleep. In the morning, my plastic surgeon checked my incisions before the physical therapist showed me some stretches, and we were sent home.I had expected that my mobility would be limited after surgery, but as I did my stretches, the discrepancy in the range of motion between my left and right arm became obvious. Something felt wrong; my right arm felt tight, like a dried-out rubber band was running under my skin between my armpit and thumb, and I couldn't extend my arm fully. I could also see lines underneath my arm in some places, at a bend in my elbow and under my armpit. It was unsettling.When I went to the doctor for my two-week follow-up, I described what I was experiencing and showed her a tight, rope-like structure underneath my armpit; she told me it was cording and stretches would help. I was supposed to find a physical therapist a few weeks after surgery as part of my recovery, and I started searching for one who specialized in breast-cancer rehabilitation or mentioned cording on their site; it took hours of searching and multiple phone calls before I found someone.<div type="image" title="Image showing cording in the authors hand with three lines pointing to it" height="2268" width="3024" msid="104475782" hostid="261"></div><h2>What is cording after mastectomy?</h2>In all my years working as a health editor and getting preventive breast-cancer care, I had never heard of cording or axillary web syndrome; neither had anyone in my family or any of my friends. It's actually <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6304256/#:~:text=Axillary%20web%20syndrome%20(AWS)%20is,tissues%20of%20the%20ipsilateral%20axilla.">a common condition</a> experienced by up to 86% of patients following breast-cancer surgery that includes the removal of one or more lymph nodes. It can develop a few weeks after surgery but can also occur months — or even years — later.With cording, patients develop one or more ropelike structures that extend from the armpit (the site of the removed lymph node, or nodes) down the arm; they may only be a few inches long or they can go down to the wrist or hand. Some people also experience cording that extends from the armpit down their chest or trunk.The cords can be thin or thick, and you <a target="_blank" href="https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/axillary-web-syndrome">can often see them</a> underneath the skin, especially when the arm is extended, which can be painful. Cording can be treated with physical therapy; patients often find <a target="_blank" href="https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/cca/if-cca-axillary-web-syndrome.pdf">stretching and massage</a> can help decrease pain and increase mobility.Some people who experience axillary web syndrome find that after a few weeks or months of proper treatment, it resolves entirely and never comes back, while others — including myself — find some relief only to experience frustrating flare-ups, often without knowing why. I have multiple cords extending down my arm through my wrist and hand, and from my armpit across my chest to my mastectomy scar.It's hard to describe how much cording has affected my life over the last nine months. When it first felt like my cording was nearly resolved through <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/treatments/lymphatic-drainage-massage">stretching and massage</a> a few months after starting physical therapy in February, I felt hopeful for the first time since my diagnosis; it seemed like I'd finally be able to start doing the things I had missed doing from before my life got thrown off course.Then, one day in May, I woke up in pain again; throughout the day, the pain increased steadily, until it was more acute than what I'd experienced immediately after I woke up from surgery. I had new cords, and there was no obvious reason. My physical therapist and doctors were stumped, and I was discouraged; I went from planning my return to the gym to having trouble holding a half-full Brita pitcher with my right arm again.Physical therapy and stretching helped relieve my pain again over a few months, only to have another sudden flare-up. Because they don't know exactly what causes it initially — or what can cause a flare-up — I am always anxious that I will wake up in pain.Though this part of my recovery has taken longer than I hoped it would — and at times, has reduced me to a puddle of frustrated tears — I'm still thankful for my health. Getting a double mastectomy removed the cancer I had and lowered my risk of developing cancer in the future; that's something that can never be taken away from me.

I experienced cording after my mastectomy. It's the one side effect I wasn't prepared for.

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Steve Bergman was diagnosed with throat cancer aged 55 after he kept getting sick.</li><li>Human papillomavirus caused his throat cancer, which he'd caught from oral sex.</li></ul>When Steve Bergman was diagnosed with<a href="https://www.insider.com/martina-navratilova-diagnosed-with-throat-breast-cancer-2023-1"> throat cancer</a> just before his 56th birthday, he was surprised.He was healthy and a keen cyclist, and thought smoking, heavy drinking, and chemical exposure — none of which related to him — caused <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/oral-sex-is-the-leading-risk-factor-throat-cancer-expert-2023-4?r=US&amp;IR=T">throat cancer,</a> he<a href="https://metro.co.uk/2022/09/28/my-throat-cancer-was-caused-by-hpv-men-need-to-know-they-can-get-it-too-16782793/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> told Metro.</a> But a series of tests after he was diagnosed with cancer revealed <a href="https://www.insider.com/what-is-hpv-2018-6">human papillomavirus</a> caught through oral sex was the cause.HPV is a group of more than 200 viruses which, according to the<a href="https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/infectious-agents/hpv-and-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> National Cancer Institute</a>, more than 90% of sexually active men and 80% of sexually active women will be infected with during their lifetime.Most HPVs don't cause any issues but some can cause cancer, which tends to affect the <a href="https://www.insider.com/cervical-cancer-signs-symptoms-pain-vagina-discharge-blood-2022-9">cervix</a>, the throat, anus, penis, vagina, and vulva.The CDC recommends that all children aged 11 to 12 get the HPV vaccine, and it is hoped vaccination will one day eradicate high-risk types of HPV.<h2>Bergman kept getting sick before he was diagnosed with cancer</h2>Before his cancer diagnosis in May 2015, Bergman had a<a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/i-keep-getting-a-sore-throat-that-comes-and-goes"> string of colds</a> that he couldn't get rid of, paired with pain down the side of his neck. A sore throat that doesn't go away is a symptom of throat cancer, according to <a href="https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-symptoms.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the American Cancer Society.</a>He was sent to a specialist who put a camera down his throat and found cancer on his tonsil."I was absolutely numb," he said. A week later, Bergman went to the hospital thinking he was having a biopsy and tonsillectomy but woke up in an intensive care unit, he told Insider.When the surgeon removed the tumor, it was larger than anticipated and he was worried Bergman wouldn't be able to breathe because of the swelling. So he fitted Bergman with a tracheostomy — a hole created at the front of the neck into the windpipe that helps the patient breathe.<h2>Bergman's doctor was 'prudish' when he asked about HPV</h2>Before his HPV diagnosis, and after some initial research into throat cancer, Bergman's wife asked his consultant if his cancer was linked to the virus, he told Metro. The consultant was "prudish" in response and asked if they knew how people catch cancer associated with HPV.70% of cases of oropharyngeal cancer, which affects the part of the throat behind the mouth, are linked to HPV, according to the National Cancer Institute. The remainder are caused by alcohol use, smoking, and chemical exposure.Within weeks of coming out of the hospital after his surgery, tests confirmed Bergman's cancer was stage 4 and caused by HPV caught via sexual contact."It was actually a relief," he told Insider, because survival rates are longer than for those with non-HPV throat cancer.<div type="image" title="Steve Bergman in hospital" height="721" width="960" msid="100481907" hostid="261"></div>Bergman <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0IYFJETr28" target="_blank" rel="noopener">campaigned to raise awareness about HPV throughout his treatment</a>, and is now in the process of creating a film about his cancer journey.He told Insider he's had various "judgmental" reactions to the HPV diagnosis, including in the comments of some articles he's written and being told he "should have kept it in his trousers."While <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmoa065497" target="_blank" rel="noopener">research has shown</a> that those with six or more oral-sex partners in their lifetime are 8.5 times more likely to develop oropharyngeal cancer than those who do not practice oral sex, many people with the infection have only had a few oral-sexual partners, according to<a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/kimmel_cancer_center/cancers_we_treat/head_neck/hpv/faqs.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> John Hopkins Medicine</a>."I've lived my life to the full, I've not been over promiscuous," Bergman said.Despite some negativity, he said the association between oral sex and his diagnosis has never been a source of shame for him, he told<a href="https://inews.co.uk/inews-lifestyle/oral-sex-gave-throat-cancer-no-shame-hpv-vaccination-2333027" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> the i</a>."There aren't very many men of my age who are prepared to talk about it, but I've always been very open and honest. I was once described as the pin-up boy of HPV" he said.Bergman had two rounds of chemotherapy and a round of radiotherapy and was told he was cancer-free in 2021.Now fully recovered from the physical effects of cancer, Bergman continues to campaign, including with the UK-based charity the Throat Cancer Foundation, where he is an ambassador, in the hope of seeing HPV cancer eradicated.

A man who kept getting sick actually had throat cancer caused by HPV caught via oral sex. He refuses to feel ashamed.

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. </li><li>To treat sleep apnea, you may need to use a CPAP machine, a special oral appliance, or make a few key lifestyle changes. </li><li>Here's how to identify the symptoms of sleep apnea and get the proper treatment. </li><li>This article <a href="https://www.insider.com/insider-medical-review-board" target="_blank" rel="noopener">was medically reviewed</a> by <a href="https://www.doctorrajd.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Raj Dasgupta, MD</a>, an associate professor of clinical medicine in the division of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine at Keck School of Medicine of USC. </li></ul><a href="https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/sleep-apnea" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sleep apnea</a> is a condition where people stop breathing, fully or partially, while they are sleeping. There are two main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type, affecting 26% of American adults ages 30 to 70 and nearly 1 billion people worldwide. If left untreated, it can increase your risk of long-term health problems, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. This article will focus on obstructive sleep apnea and teach you how to recognize the warning signs and seek proper treatment.<h2>What is obstructive sleep apnea? </h2><a href="https://www.sleepapnea.org/learn/sleep-apnea/obstructive-sleep-apnea/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Obstructive sleep apnea</a> (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea. It occurs when the tongue falls back onto the soft palate (the area at the back of the mouth and top of the throat). The soft palate pushes to the back of the throat, fully or partially blocking the airway. OSA is associated with poor long-term health outcomes. This includes a higher risk of<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3096276/#:~:text=Undetected%20obstructive%20sleep%20apnea%20can,appliances,%20and%20several%20surgical%20procedures." target="_blank" rel="noopener"> many health complications</a>, such as high blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, depression, and early death. And it can also pose short-term health dangers. "The increased sleepiness from OSA can also lead to increased<a href="https://www.sleepapnea.org/learn/sleep-apnea/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> motor vehicle accidents</a> and work-related injuries," says<a href="https://aeroflowinc.com/about/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Kelli Randell</a>, MD, a medical advisor for Aeroflow Healthcare, a medical equipment supplier.<h2>Obstructive sleep apnea symptoms</h2>The main<a href="http://sleepeducation.org/essentials-in-sleep/sleep-apnea/symptoms-risk-factors" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> symptoms of OSA</a> include:<ul><li>Loud snoring</li><li>Choking during the night</li><li>Daytime sleepiness because of sleep interruptions</li><li>Morning headaches</li><li>Trouble sleeping all night</li></ul>You might also notice other medical conditions like high blood pressure getting worse, says<a href="https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/find-a-doctor/steven-holfinger-md-79606" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Steven Holfinger</a>, MD, a sleep medicine expert at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. For example, your <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/how-to-read-blood-pressure" target="_blank" rel="noopener">blood pressure readings</a> may increase as a result of OSA. If you're experiencing these symptoms, "You should talk with your primary care doctor or see a sleep specialist for further care," Holfinger says. In most cases, physicians will conduct a<a href="https://www.sleepapnea.org/treat/getting-sleep-apnea-diagnosis/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> sleep study</a> to diagnose sleep apnea. During the sleep study your breathing will be monitored and doctors will measure two main factors:1. Apneas where you do not breath for at least 10 seconds.2. Hypopnea where you have restricted breathing for at least 10 seconds at a time.If you have<a href="https://www.sleepapnea.org/treat/getting-sleep-apnea-diagnosis/"> five or more apneas or hypopneas</a> per hour, you will likely be diagnosed with sleep apnea. If you have 30 or more you'll be considered to have severe sleep apnea. <h2>How to treat sleep apnea </h2>After diagnosis, you should work with your doctor to learn how best to treat your sleep apnea. Treatment commonly includes a mix of lifestyle changes, therapies, appliances, or surgeries, such as: <h3>Lifestyle changes</h3>A few key lifestyle changes can help lessen the symptoms of sleep apnea. In most cases, your doctor may recommend these steps on top of other medical treatment: <ul><li>Losing weight. Sleep apnea is closely linked with obesity: about<a href="https://obesitymedicine.org/obesity-and-sleep-apnea/#:~:text=About%2070%25%20of%20adult%20OSA,to%20their%20normal-weight%20peers." target="_blank" rel="noopener"> 70% of people</a> with OSA are obese. In fact, losing 10% of your body weight is linked to a<a href="https://obesitymedicine.org/obesity-and-sleep-apnea/#:~:text=About%2070%25%20of%20adult%20OSA,to%20their%20normal-weight%20peers." target="_blank" rel="noopener"> 20% reduction</a> in OSA symptoms. </li><li>Reducing alcohol intake. Consuming alcohol is associated with an<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5840512/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> increased risk</a> for sleep apnea, and avoiding alcohol can help reduce OSA symptoms and prevent it from getting worse. </li><li>Changing <a href="https://www.insider.com/what-is-the-best-sleeping-position" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sleep position</a>. Specifically, you'll want to avoid sleeping horizontally on your back to help keep your airway clear and treat OSA.<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5700252/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Elevating your head and upper body</a> during sleep — or even<a href="https://jcsm.aasm.org/doi/10.5664/jcsm.4458" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> taping a tennis ball</a> to the back of your shirt to avoid sleeping on your back — can lead to significant short-term improvements for sleep apnea. </li></ul><h3>CPAP therapy</h3>A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is a mask that fits over your face and lightly blows air into your soft palate as you sleep. This gentle pressure is enough to keep the airway from falling closed in patients with OSA, and sometimes, it's the only treatment you'll need. "It's the most effective, nonsurgical treatment for patients. CPAP is considered first-line treatment," Randell says. "Most patients will experience better sleep and quality of life with use of CPAP by itself."Since CPAPs are currently the best treatment for OSA, people with the condition should ideally use this machine diligently until their sleep troubles resolve.However, many people do not use CPAPs as prescribed because they find the machines bothersome or uncomfortable. A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4992257/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">scientific review</a> from 2016 found that more than 34% of people with a CPAP machine didn't adhere to the use their doctor had prescribed. <h3>Oral appliances</h3><a href="https://www.sleepapnea.org/treat/sleep-apnea-treatment-options/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oral appliances</a> are worn like a mouth guard or a retainer while sleeping. These can push the lower jaw forward and help keep the airway open."A moderate number of patients have successful treatment with these devices," Randell says. "The biggest complaint about oral appliances is discomfort." However, some people may find them more comfortable than CPAP machines.There are more than 100 of these appliances approved by the FDA for sleep apnea treatment. Your doctor will be able to guide you best when selecting and getting fitted for one of these oral appliances. <h3>Surgical treatments</h3><a href="https://www.sleepapnea.org/treat/sleep-apnea-treatment-options/sleep-apnea-surgery/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Surgical treatments</a> for sleep apnea can be effective, especially for those who have tried a CPAP machine or oral appliances and found that they were too uncomfortable to use consistently. Surgery — which usually includes removing the tonsils — is a common treatment for sleep apnea in children, Holfinger says. "For adults, surgery is much less common but may be necessary when sleep apnea is severe and other treatments have failed," Holfinger says. "The surgical options are meant to either remove or reposition tissue to further open the airway." Here are common surgical options, according to Randell:<ul><li>Nasal surgeries are used for patients who have a nasal obstruction contributing to OSA, but they are not considered effective for patients without that specific contributing factor. </li><li>Upper airway surgeries, like <a href="https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-treatments/p/palate-surgery/types/uppp.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">uvulopalatopharyngoplasty</a> (UPPP), removes extra tissue from the upper airway, while a <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15605-tonsillectomy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tonsillectomy</a> removes the tonsils. The effectiveness of these surgeries depends on the patient, and can range from 30% to 80%, Randell says. </li><li>Lower pharyngeal and laryngeal procedures, such as tongue reduction or advancement, mandibular advancement, or epiglottis replacement change the structure of the mouth and palate to prevent blockage of the airway. These often require more than one procedure and are effective in 35% to 65% of patients, Randell says. </li><li>Tracheostomy allows the lungs to access air from a hole in the throat, bypassing the airway. This is an extreme but very effective surgery, usually reserved for the most severe cases of sleep apnea. </li></ul><h2>The bottom line </h2>Learning to treat and manage your OSA is an important step for protecting your long-term health. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, you should speak with your doctor and find a treatment that works for you to avoid the more serious health complications of sleep apnea, like high blood pressure or heart disease. "Generally, sleep apnea should be considered a treatable condition, as there are multiple approaches available to control it on a nightly basis," says Holfinger. <h2>Related articles from <a href="https://www.insider.com/health-reference" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Health Reference</a>:</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/why-am-i-always-tired" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Why am I always tired? The main causes of sleepiness and fatigue</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/is-too-much-sleep-bad" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Is too much sleep bad? How oversleeping could signal something is wrong</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/natural-remedies-for-insomnia" target="_blank" rel="noopener">5 natural home remedies for insomnia that can help you get better sleep</a></li></ul>

How to treat sleep apnea and prevent long-term health complications

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Sore throats are often caused by a viral infection which may raise your body temperature slightly.</li><li>Other causes of a sore throat without a fever include allergies, acid reflux, and STIs.</li></ul>Sore throats are incredibly common, accounting for about<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2231494/"> 4% of visits</a> to family practitioners.The majority of sore throats are caused by viruses, which can raise your body temperature slightly, but usually not enough to cause a fever (<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/quarantine/air/reporting-deaths-illness/definitions-symptoms-reportable-illnesses.html#:~:text=CDC%20considers%20a%20person%20to,a%20history%20of%20feeling%20feverish." target="_blank" rel="noopener">100.4 °F</a> or more). Sore throat without fever can also be<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/sore-throat.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> caused by</a> allergies, reflux, STIs, behaviors like yelling or singing, and environmental irritants.In most cases a sore throat with no fever is nothing to be worried about. "Generally a sore throat without fever is less of a concern than a sore throat with fever," says<a href="https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/find-a-doctor/hiten-patel-md-79434" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Hiten Patel</a>, MD, a family medicine physician at<a href="https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center</a>.Here are five common causes of a sore throat that don't typically cause fever. <h2>1. Common cold</h2>One of the most common causes of sore throat without fever is the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/colds.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/community/for-patients/common-illnesses/colds.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">common cold</a>. If you have a cold, you might experience other symptoms including:<ul><li>Sneezing</li><li>Stuffy nose</li><li>Coughing</li><li>Watery eyes</li><li>Feeling tired</li></ul>How to feel better: <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/common-cold" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Common colds will resolve</a> on their own in 7-10 days. Resting, <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/treatments/tea-for-sore-throat" target="_blank" rel="noopener">drinking hot tea</a> with honey, or taking ibuprofen for pain can help control symptoms, Patel says. <h2>2. Tonsillitis</h2>Tonsillitis is the swelling of the tonsils, which are those lumps of tissue at the back of the throat. The inflammation, or swelling, is most commonly <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/tonsillitis.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">caused</a> by a viral infection, but it can also be due to a bacterial infection. Tonsillitis is most common in children under 2, although it can happen in adults as well. If you or your child have tonsillitis, you might notice these <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/tonsillitis.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">symptoms</a>:<ul><li>A severe sore throat</li><li>Red, swollen tonsils; white or yellow coating on the tonsils</li><li>Difficulty swallowing</li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/dental/bad-breath" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bad breath</a></li><li>Swollen glands on the neck</li></ul>Fever with tonsillitis is possible, but unlikely, Patel says. How to feel better: Viral tonsillitis resolves on its own within 3-5 days, says Patel. Use ibuprofen to control pain and eat soothing foods like popsicles or warm tea. If you or your child have difficulty swallowing or have repeated episodes of tonsillitis, see a doctor. If you have frequent episodes of severe tonsillitis that don't respond to treatment, a doctor <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tonsillectomy/about/pac-20395141" target="_blank" rel="noopener">may recommend a tonsillectomy</a>, or the removal of your tonsils — though this procedure is done less often today compared to years prior. Quick Tip: Other viral or bacterial illnesses including strep throat, <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/flu-symptoms" target="_blank" rel="noopener">influenza</a>, COVID, <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/treatments/how-to-treat-mono" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mononucleosis</a>, and hand, foot and mouth disease can also cause sore throats, but if you have any of those illnesses you'll likely have a fever as well, Patel says.<h2>3. Allergies</h2>Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis or <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/hay-fever" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hay fever</a>, can cause a sore throat with no fever. This happens because of<a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8622-allergic-rhinitis-hay-fever" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> postnasal drip</a>, or mucus from the nose dropping down the throat and irritating it. Allergies can cause a sore throat without fever in kids or adults, says Patel. If your sore throat is caused by allergies, you'll likely notice that it occurs after you're exposed to triggers like pollen or pet dander. The other symptoms of allergies include:<ul><li>Sneezing, <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/how-to-stop-a-runny-nose" target="_blank" rel="noopener">runny nose</a> or stuffy nose</li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/how-to-stop-coughing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Coughing</a></li><li>Itching, particularly on the eyes, nose, mouth and throat</li><li>Headache and pressure in the nose and cheeks</li><li>Watery, red, and swollen eyes</li></ul>How to feel better: The best way to control allergies is by<a href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000813.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> avoiding your triggers</a> where possible, by taking actions like keeping windows closed when allergy counts are high. If you still experience symptoms, use an antihistamine or steroid nasal spray to help control nasal symptoms, which will <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/how-to-stop-post-nasal-drip" target="_blank" rel="noopener">decrease post-nasal drip</a> to your throat, Patel says. <h2>4. Acid reflux</h2>If you have a persistent sore throat without a fever, it could be caused by<a href="https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> acid reflux</a>, says Patel. Reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/treatments/home-remedies-for-acid-reflux" target="_blank" rel="noopener">gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)</a>, happens when stomach contents come up through the esophagus into the throat and mouth. When this happens, it can irritate your throat. Reflux can happen on occasion, or frequently. It's<a href="https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults/definition-facts#common" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> more common</a> in adults, <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/reproductive-health/heartburn-pregnancy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pregnant people</a>, and overweight people, although anyone can experience reflux. If you have a sore throat caused by reflux, you'll likely notice other<a href="https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults/symptoms-causes" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> symptoms</a>, including:<ul><li>Heartburn and associated chest pain</li><li>Chronic cough or hoarseness</li><li>Trouble swallowing</li><li>Nausea</li><li>Regurgitation</li></ul>These symptoms might get worse when you eat certain foods, like<a href="https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults/eating-diet-nutrition" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> acidic or spicy foods</a>, or when you lie down, says Patel. How to feel better: Lifestyle changes like adjusting your diet and losing weight can help with chronic reflux. For mild or occasional bouts of reflux, antacids can help, but you shouldn't use them every day. If your reflux happens frequently, you should see a doctor, says Jim Keany, MD, co-director of the emergency department at<a href="https://www.providence.org/locations/mission-hospital-mission-viejo" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Providence Mission Hospital</a>.<h2>5. STIs</h2>Certain STIs can also cause a sore throat, particularly if you've had an oral exposure to the virus. "To many people's surprise, sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea and <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/sex-relationships/is-herpes-curable" target="_blank" rel="noopener">herpes</a> can also cause sore throat," says Keany. A sore throat can also be one of the<a href="https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/9585.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> first symptoms of HIV infection</a>, appearing weeks after exposure. If you have HIV, you may or may not experience a fever. Oftentimes, STIs have <a href="https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/teens/ask-experts/can-you-have-an-std-but-have-no-symptoms-at-all-and-if-so-what-disease-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">no symptoms</a>. However, you might notice<a href="https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/s/sexually-transmitted-infections" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> symptoms</a> including:<ul><li>Sores on the genitals or mouth</li><li>Pain while urinating or urinating more frequently</li><li>Increased or changed genital discharged</li><li>Pain in the pelvis</li><li>Pain within the penis or vagina</li></ul>How to feel better: STIs often require treatment with antibiotics or other antiviral medication. If you suspect your sore throat is linked to an STI, talk with your doctor about testing.<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/std/treatment-guidelines/screening-recommendations.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Regular STI screenings</a> are part of routine care for all sexually-active people. <h2>When to see a doctor</h2>Usually, a sore throat without fever will<a href="https://universityurgent.care/what-to-do-when-you-get-a-sore-throat/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> go away on its own</a>, so Keany recommends waiting a few days before seeking medical care as long as your symptoms are mild.However, you should<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/sore-throat.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> seek immediate medical care</a> if you have:<ul><li>Difficulty breathing</li><li>Noises or whistling when you breath</li><li>Trouble swallowing</li><li>Signs of dehydration</li><li>Drooling (especially in children)</li><li>Blood in your saliva or phlegm </li><li>Joint swelling or pain</li><li>Rash</li></ul>If your symptoms do not improve within a week or if you frequently experience sore throats with no fever, see your doctor, says Patel. <h2>Insider's takeaway</h2>Occasionally, sore throat without fever can indicate an underlying health issue, like reflux, allergies, or post nasal drip. Other times, it can be from a more serious infection like an STI that requires medical treatment. In most cases, a sore throat with no fever is due to an infection or other conditions that will resolve on their own and is not a medical concern, says Patel. Using ibuprofen to manage pain and sipping warm water with honey can help relieve symptoms until your sore throat goes away, usually within a week."This is usually self-resolving and will improve without any treatment," Patel says.

5 reasons why you have a sore throat but no fever

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Dr. Roy Kraemer is a veterinarian who specializes in treating French and English bulldogs. </li><li>He says Frenchies can be healthy dogs, but some of their health issues need ongoing maintenance. </li></ul>This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Dr. Roy Kraemer, a Tufts veterinary school graduate with over 30 years of experience in the veterinary field and Southern California veterinarian who specializes in treating English and French bulldogs. It's been edited for length and clarity.There's no board certification or bulldog specialty in veterinary school, as some might think. To become a "bulldog expert" you need to see and operate on many. But no one will want to see you until you become an expert. It's an unfortunate irony — one that means only a few vets have adequate experience treating bulldogs. <h2>How I became an expert in treating French bulldogs</h2><div type="image" title="Veterinarian doctor Roy Kraemer holding a black bulldog." height="2205" width="2200" msid="99474298" hostid="261"></div>About 25 years ago, I started helping with the not-for-profit <a href="https://socalbulldogrescue.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Southern California Bulldog Rescue</a>. The founder had come to me in need of shelter and medical care for his rescues.At first, I knew little about the breed, but I eventually went from seeing a few bulldogs a year to examining 20-30 a day — many of them in poor physical shape. I even treated some rescued French bulldogs with <a href="https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/stem-cell-therapy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stem cell therapy,</a> a cutting-edge regenerative medicine. Frenchies, like other bulldog types, have distinct problems that other breeds don't, and I found the best way to prevent, care, and treat them was through a large case volume over many years. <h2>Frenchies' growing popularity is amplifying health issues</h2><div type="image" title="French bulldog" height="4016" width="6016" msid="99474299" hostid="261"></div>Frenchies became the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/dogs-breeds-popularity-frenchies-bulldogs-labrador-retrievers-983c17969c8b3efaf1b02f55a0d8f24b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most popular breed in the US</a> in 2022, probably due to their fun, energetic, playful, and usually friendly nature. When I started my bully specialty practice 20-plus years ago, I might have seen 10 to 20 English bulldogs for every one Frenchie. In recent years, I have seen more Frenchies than English bulldogs. As with any type of purebred dog, this rise in popularity has led to a rise in breeders with inadequate knowledge and questionable ethics, which only amplifies many Frenchie health issues. For instance, ongoing selective breeding — "boutique breeding" — is fueled by demand, not pet welfare. So, we're seeing extreme variation from the breed standard, like miniature-size bulldogs, unusual eye color, and coat color — and some of these traits are linked to "bad" genes.Many online forums and sites also have misleading information about vaccinations, flea preventatives, and popular <a href="https://vetnutrition.tufts.edu/2018/06/a-broken-heart-risk-of-heart-disease-in-boutique-or-grain-free-diets-and-exotic-ingredients/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">boutique diets</a> — like <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/pets/grain-free-dog-food">grain-free diets</a> and <a href="https://www.insider.com/guides/pets/raw-food-diet-for-dogs">raw diets</a>, which can put your dog's health at risk. This misinformation makes it hard for Frenchie owners to recognize responsible breeders and experienced veterinary teams and tell good advice from bad. <h2>Frenchie health problems may require lifetime maintenance</h2><div type="image" title="A bulldog with an oxygen mask on while undergoing anesthesia." height="1080" width="1920" msid="99474300" hostid="261"></div>Many Frenchies face serious health concerns related to their flat head (brachycephaly). But treating those cute little faces can come with major medical costs and lifelong maintenance.For example, many Frenchies suffer from a serious flat-faced airway disease named <a href="https://www.ufaw.org.uk/dogs/french-bulldog-brachycephalic-airway-obstruction-syndrome-baos-" target="_blank" rel="noopener">brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome</a>, which most commonly includes a <a href="https://vet4bulldog.com/zen-health-and-bulldog-maintenance/breathing-problems-bulldogs-french-bulldogs/stenotic-nares-in-bulldogs-and-french-bulldogs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pinched nose</a> (stenotic nares), and an elongated soft palate.If your Frenchie develops these serious and potentially deadly airway health concerns, timely treatment is essential, as well as minimizing stress and excitement and providing a cool and well-ventilated environment. Treatment involves corrective surgery of the nose, soft palate, tonsil, and laryngeal saccules. Types of surgery include a rhinoplasty, stapedectomy, sacculectomy, or tonsillectomy. Surgery should be done once they reach their full growth around 10-12 months. I recommend getting surgery done by an experienced team, since anesthesia and surgery for Frenchies is challenging and risky. For example, I have a series of protocols customized specifically for bulldogs that include specially customized anesthetic drug combinations, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujoUFs62RHY" target="_blank" rel="noopener">providing oxygen before anesthesia</a>, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UD5ex49E5YU" target="_blank" rel="noopener">strict monitoring</a> before, during, and after the procedure.Not all French bulldogs will require surgery, but their flat faces can lead to other conditions that involve consistent maintenance, including skinfold, eye and eyelid, dental, and ear diseases. Routine ear cleaning and wiping can help prevent chronic and end-stage ear disease. What's more, antiseptic skinfold wipes, lotions, and rinses can help address skinfold moist dermatitis, which can develop on the face, nose, tail, vagina, and toes. <h2>Frenchies can still be healthy dogs</h2><div type="image" title="A bulldog eating out of an elevated dog food bowl to help with regurgitation issues." height="1720" width="1720" msid="99474301" hostid="261"></div>Some older statistics suggest Frenchies only live an average of 6 to 8 years. But in my experience, with the improvement of <a href="https://vet4bulldog.com/health-and-preventive-care-in-bulldogs-and-french-bulldogs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">preventive care</a>, wellness, and medicine, the average French bulldog may live <a href="https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/french-bulldog/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">11 to 12 years</a>. Frenchies can absolutely be active: They can play, jog, and hike like other dog breeds. In fact, I've treated French bulldogs who competed in local fundraising physical activities, like <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cheriethesurfdog/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cherie the Surf Dog</a> who raises funds for French Bulldog Rescue.The key to ensuring the health of your Frenchie lies in being an educated and committed owner. Start by finding a vet knowledgeable with Frenchies, getting pet insurance, and making sure the policy doesn't discriminate against bulldog breeds. This is especially important if you buy your Frenchie, instead of adopting from a rescue group, as most rescued dogs will see a vet before they're ready for adoption. It's also important to stay on top of parasite prevention and vaccinations and schedule regular wellness visits, which can help catch common Frenchie health problems and potentially reduce the need for drugs, expensive medical care, and risky surgeries. I also recommend <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Vet4bulldog/videos/megaesophagus-a-pocket-that-traps-food-in-the-esophagus-is-common-to-bulldogs-an/3231431127181589/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">using a slow feeder and elevating their feeding bowls</a>, which can help control aspiration pneumonia and a common Frenchie condition called <a href="https://vet4bulldog.com/zen-health-and-bulldog-maintenance/digestion-and-dental-problems-in-bulldogs-and-french-bulldogs/megaesophagus-in-bulldogs-and-french-bulldogs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">megaesophagus</a>, where a pocket in the esophageal wall collects food before it reaches the stomach, causing dogs to regurgitate. Pureeing their food or soaking kibble in water to soften it can also <a href="https://vet4bulldog.com/zen-health-and-bulldog-maintenance/digestion-and-dental-problems-in-bulldogs-and-french-bulldogs/megaesophagus-in-bulldogs-and-french-bulldogs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">keep food from getting trapped</a> in the megaesophagus.<h2>I share free content to help Frenchie owners and vets</h2>There just aren't enough veterinarians with bulldog experience. Despite treating thousands of bulldogs, I still receive countless cries for help from bulldog owners, both nationwide and globally. On my website, <a href="https://vet4bulldog.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vet4Bulldog</a>, my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4mmOzVG43nbZ_CR4g4N4Rg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">YouTube channel</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Vet4bulldog" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vet4bulldog/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, you'll find plenty of guidance dedicated to educating and helping new and current bulldog owners. I also offer a monthly bully newsletter and a customized bully therapeutic product line for preventive care and wellness.

I've treated bulldogs' health issues for over 30 years. I now help more Frenchies than ever and recommend knowing about all their medical needs before getting one.

<ul class="summary-list"><li>I lost 35 pounds during the pandemic while starting a new job as <keyword id="79969" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="insider">Insider</keyword>'s DC bureau chief.</li><li>The weight probably wouldn't have come off had I not first gotten an intestinal infection common for people in their 40s.</li><li>A nutritionist helped me stop eating sugar, carbs, and fats and instead choose healthier options.</li></ul>None of my work clothes fit anymore. It's a good problem to have, and one I'll start doing something about once I'm fully vaccinated and return to an actual office.In the meantime, I'm rejoicing in how I've shed 35 pounds during the <keyword id="8764262" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="covid">COVID</keyword> pandemic when it could have been so easy to go the other way.The story of how my health took such a dramatic turn for the better dovetails with another healthy change in my <keyword id="6360041" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="life">life</keyword>. Just before the pandemic gripped the nation, Insider hired me away from Politico to lead its new Washington DC bureau. Opportunities like that are rare in journalism, and it was appealing to build something from scratch while incorporating all the different things I'd learned in all my previous newsrooms. I'd also be able to step away from the break-neck pace I'd been keeping as a reporter on the Trump legal beat. My new job entailed recruiting, then editing a team tasked with doing exclusive, enterprising political journalism. My pitch to recruits was decidedly optimistic. They could join the newest division of a growing, thriving news organization at a moment when so many others were shrinking - or even shutting down.But little did I know that my big professional move would portend major personal changes, too.<h2>An untimely ER visit</h2>After leaving Politico in late February 2020, I had planned to visit my mom in South Florida for the first time in more than a year, taking advantage of several weeks of free time in-between jobs.But the nationwide travel lockdown pretty much coincided with my first days on sabbatical, limiting my travel options to the streets around my DC neighborhood. My wife and I did puzzles and adopted a feral cat. We baked.It admittedly felt wonderful to not be part of feeding the 24/7 news cycle as the pandemic engulfed the world. I'd been pumping out articles at a relentless pace, and really, pretty much since arriving in Washington about 20 years earlier, during the final days of the lame-duck Clinton administration. Still, that feeling didn't last long. The news was relentless. I ultimately decided to begin work at Insider earlier than my planned start time in mid-May.Our <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/scammers-are-luring-states-into-fake-mask-deals-2020-4">first story</a> for the DC bureau published in early April about the crazy black market that had taken off around the country as local, state, and federal government officials frantically searched for wholesale purchases of N95 masks and other personal protection equipment. Then came a dramatic detour. My wife and I were playing catch on a beautiful Saturday afternoon just a few days after my 45th birthday. I was pretending to be the shortstop for the Chicago Cubs.I woke up limping on Sunday morning. By Monday, just as I was starting my second week at Insider, I came down with a fever and a seismic pain radiating around my inner thigh and leg.My imagination started running wild about what was going on, and for good reason. Since childhood, I've been legendary for sickness and injuries. I lost my two top childhood front teeth flying into a couch in my Superman Halloween costume. A year later, I yanked out my bottom two teeth pulling on a balloon string at my brother's Bar Mitzvah. Family vacations were regularly interrupted by visits to doctors for sore throats and ear infections. I had mono three times in high school. I've broken my arms six different times. I had a tonsillectomy not long after my honeymoon. I've gotten swimmer's ear in my stomach.So I did as told when my doctor instructed me to get to a hospital. I was an absolute whimpering wreck as my wife handed me off to emergency room nurses dressed in full hazmat gear. I waited for the results of my first COVID test writhing in pain. I did my best to distract myself by watching a years-old college football game inside a hermetically sealed room. I later learned I was inside one of the most active hospitals for the novel coronavirus in all of the DC region.<div type="image" title="Darren Samuelsohn hospital" height="1739" width="2319" msid="81841275" hostid="261"></div><h2>Diverticu-what?</h2>Thankfully, I didn't have COVID. It wasn't anything to do with my baseball exploits, either. I had diverticulitis. My doctors explained that my bad diet had finally caught up to me and given me this intestinal infection that's common for people in their 40s. I should have seen this coming. I stress-ate amid writing a never-ending stream of stories about Trump and the Mueller investigation. The free all-you-can eat snackbar at Politico endlessly tempted me, especially the peanut M&amp;Ms. I couldn't resist my favorite chicken finger food truck. I had ballooned to almost 250 pounds. That's dangerous stuff for a middle-aged man with a family history of diabetes, heart disease, and all the other stuff so common in America today. Two nights in a hospital during the early days of the pandemic served as a reality check. So did the next two weeks recovering at home desperate to find a comfortable way to sit and sleep. We celebrated when I could graduate from clear liquids to carrot soup and scrambled eggs. Diverticulitis comes with some pretty strict rules on what foods you're supposed to avoid.My new nutritionist told me to cut out lots of foods I liked: almonds, strawberries, everything bagels, and anything else the digestive system doesn't easily break down. And she implored me to do even more to get healthy - before it was too late. I needed to eliminate even foods I loved: ice cream, cookies, French fries, and fried chicken fingers. I also needed to dramatically limit bread and starches. All those sugar and carbs going in were like igniting dynamite inside my body. Ignoring her advice could lead to grave consequences. Some changes took time, but were simple enough, such as eating just one starch per meal. I also gradually started measuring serving sizes. I watched my fat intake. Curiously, my taste buds changed. By summer, I stopped craving chocolate and soon discovered just how amazing fresh fruit can be when you're not always consuming artificial sweeteners. My breakfasts shifted from eggs, bacon, and a toasted bagel with cream cheese to non-fat yogurt - one of the most versatile foods on planet Earth - blended with frozen fruit. I have pickles instead of potato chips during lunch and keep away from the garlic bread for dinner if we are already having pasta. I eat two apples with peanut butter every afternoon. Wine and spirits, without added syrup, are fine in moderation. Frozen fruit doubles as an amazing ice cream substitute.I also added a far more rigorous exercise routine. I started walking every day. Then I added short bursts of jogging. I couldn't go far at first, just between a couple of mailboxes. Eventually, I could make it several blocks without stopping. I'm now doing about two-to-four miles a day, five times a week. The 35 pounds came off at a pretty steady pace for much of 2020 and only recently began to stabilize. My goal is to still try to lose another 20 or 30. We'll see how that goes. But I feel great. My bloodwork is amazing. My doctor joked during my last physical exam that I looked hot. <div type="image" title="DC Bureau Insider group March 2020" height="1000" width="2000" msid="81841281" hostid="261"></div><h2>Stay away from the chicken fingers</h2>Whether you've packed on the dreaded COVID 15, or have been struggling with your weight for years, know there's hope for making a lasting change - and with luck, it won't require a health scare.My own personal health transformation has gotten a major boost because I've been lucky enough to work from home at a news organization that's prioritized its employees' pandemic-era well-being.As I lead Insider's Washington Bureau from my home office, my wife and I have significantly changed how we shop, cook, and exercise. You can't eat cookies if there aren't any cookies in the cupboard. No commute means there's time to prepare healthy meals. Insider also encourages its reporters to get away from their computers, take breaks, and take time off. Maintaining your sanity is so much easier after getting fresh air - or some extended time to not think about work. Now I'm steadying myself and my newfound willpower for what comes next once I get my COVID shots. I'm looking forward to that first visit to my mom in South Florida - and, of course, my favorite hometown restaurants. Our DC bureau will finally open its doors sometime soon, too - we've been a virtual bureau since we sprung into existence almost a year ago. The idea of working in physical proximity to colleagues makes me a drop giddy. Some of us have never even met in person. I just need to brace myself for the home-baked cookies and the chicken finger food truck. I want to be able to keep wearing those new work clothes I'll soon be buying.

Time to go clothes shopping. How I lost 35 pounds during the COVID pandemic.

<ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="55632" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Sleep-Apnea">Sleep apnea</keyword> is a common <keyword id="6372996" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="sleep">sleep</keyword> disorder that can lead to serious <keyword id="6354750" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="health">health</keyword> complications if left untreated. </li><li>To treat sleep apnea, you may need to use a CPAP machine, a special oral appliance, or make a few key lifestyle changes. </li><li>Here's how to identify the symptoms of sleep apnea and get the proper treatment. </li><li>This article <a href="https://www.insider.com/insider-medical-review-board" target="_blank" rel="noopener">was medically reviewed</a> by <a href="https://www.doctorrajd.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Raj Dasgupta, MD</a>, an associate professor of clinical medicine in the division of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine at Keck School of Medicine of USC. </li></ul><a href="https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/sleep-apnea" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sleep apnea</a> is a condition where people stop breathing, fully or partially, while they are sleeping. There are two main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type, affecting 26% of American adults ages 30 to 70 and nearly 1 billion people worldwide. If left untreated, it can increase your risk of long-term health problems, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. This article will focus on obstructive sleep apnea and teach you how to recognize the warning signs and seek proper treatment.<h2>What is obstructive sleep apnea? </h2><a href="https://www.sleepapnea.org/learn/sleep-apnea/obstructive-sleep-apnea/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Obstructive sleep apnea</a> (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea. It occurs when the tongue falls back onto the soft palate (the area at the back of the mouth and top of the throat). The soft palate pushes to the back of the throat, fully or partially blocking the airway. OSA is associated with poor long-term health outcomes. This includes a higher risk of<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3096276/#:~:text=Undetected%20obstructive%20sleep%20apnea%20can,appliances,%20and%20several%20surgical%20procedures." target="_blank" rel="noopener"> many health complications</a>, such as high blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, depression, and early death. And it can also pose short-term health dangers. "The increased sleepiness from OSA can also lead to increased<a href="https://www.sleepapnea.org/learn/sleep-apnea/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> motor vehicle accidents</a> and work-related injuries," says<a href="https://aeroflowinc.com/about/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Kelli Randell</a>, MD, a medical advisor for Aeroflow Healthcare, a medical equipment manufacturer.<h2>Obstructive sleep apnea symptoms</h2>The main<a href="http://sleepeducation.org/essentials-in-sleep/sleep-apnea/symptoms-risk-factors" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> symptoms of OSA</a> include:<ul><li>Loud snoring</li><li>Choking during the night</li><li>Daytime sleepiness because of sleep interruptions</li><li>Morning headaches</li><li>Trouble sleeping all night</li></ul>You might also notice other medical conditions like high blood pressure getting worse, says<a href="https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/find-a-doctor/steven-holfinger-md-79606" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Steven Holfinger</a>, MD, a sleep medicine expert at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. For example, your <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-to-read-blood-pressure" target="_blank" rel="noopener">blood pressure readings</a> may increase as a result of OSA. If you're experiencing these symptoms, "You should talk with your primary care doctor or see a sleep specialist for further care," Holfinger says. In most cases, physicians will conduct a<a href="https://www.sleepapnea.org/treat/getting-sleep-apnea-diagnosis/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> sleep study</a> to diagnose sleep apnea. During the sleep study your breathing will be monitored and doctors will measure two main factors:1. Apneas where you do not breath for at least 10 seconds.2. Hypopnea where you have restricted breathing for at least 10 seconds at a time.If you have<a href="https://www.sleepapnea.org/treat/getting-sleep-apnea-diagnosis/"> five or more apneas or hypopneas</a> per hour, you will likely be diagnosed with sleep apnea. If you have 30 or more you'll be considered to have severe sleep apnea. <h2>How to treat sleep apnea </h2>After diagnosis, you should work with your doctor to learn how best to treat your sleep apnea. Treatment commonly includes a mix of lifestyle changes, therapies, appliances, or surgeries, such as: <h3>Lifestyle changes</h3>A few key lifestyle changes can help lessen the symptoms of sleep apnea. In most cases, your doctor may recommend these steps on top of other medical treatment: <ul><li>Losing weight. Sleep apnea is closely linked with obesity: about<a href="https://obesitymedicine.org/obesity-and-sleep-apnea/#:~:text=About%2070%25%20of%20adult%20OSA,to%20their%20normal-weight%20peers." target="_blank" rel="noopener"> 70% of people</a> with OSA are obese. In fact, losing 10% of your body weight is linked to a<a href="https://obesitymedicine.org/obesity-and-sleep-apnea/#:~:text=About%2070%25%20of%20adult%20OSA,to%20their%20normal-weight%20peers." target="_blank" rel="noopener"> 20% reduction</a> in OSA symptoms. </li><li>Reducing alcohol intake. Consuming alcohol is associated with an<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5840512/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> increased risk</a> for sleep apnea, and avoiding alcohol can help reduce OSA symptoms and prevent it from getting worse. </li><li>Changing <a href="https://www.insider.com/what-is-the-best-sleeping-position" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sleep position</a>. Specifically, you'll want to avoid sleeping horizontally on your back to help keep your airway clear and treat OSA.<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5700252/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Elevating your head and upper body</a> during sleep — or even<a href="https://jcsm.aasm.org/doi/10.5664/jcsm.4458" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> taping a tennis ball</a> to the back of your shirt to avoid sleeping on your back — can lead to significant short-term improvements for sleep apnea. </li></ul><h3>CPAP therapy</h3>A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is a mask that fits over your face and lightly blows air into your soft palate as you sleep. This gentle pressure is enough to keep the airway from falling closed in patients with OSA, and sometimes, it's the only treatment you'll need. "It's the most effective, nonsurgical treatment for patients. CPAP is considered first-line treatment," Randell says. "Most patients will experience better sleep and quality of life with use of CPAP by itself."Since CPAPs are currently the best treatment for OSA, people with the condition should ideally use this machine diligently until their sleep troubles resolve.However, many people do not use CPAPs as prescribed because they find the machines bothersome or uncomfortable. A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4992257/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">scientific review</a> from 2016 found that more than 34% of people with a CPAP machine didn't adhere to the use their doctor had prescribed. <h3>Oral appliances</h3><a href="https://www.sleepapnea.org/treat/sleep-apnea-treatment-options/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oral appliances</a> are worn like a mouth guard or a retainer while sleeping. These can push the lower jaw forward and help keep the airway open."A moderate number of patients have successful treatment with these devices," Randell says. "The biggest complaint about oral appliances is discomfort." However, some people may find them more comfortable than CPAP machines.There are more than 100 of these appliances approved by the FDA for sleep apnea treatment. Your doctor will be able to guide you best when selecting and getting fitted for one of these oral appliances. <h3>Surgical treatments</h3><a href="https://www.sleepapnea.org/treat/sleep-apnea-treatment-options/sleep-apnea-surgery/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Surgical treatments</a> for sleep apnea can be effective, especially for those who have tried a CPAP machine or oral appliances and found that they were too uncomfortable to use consistently. Surgery — which usually includes removing the tonsils — is a common treatment for sleep apnea in children, Holfinger says. "For adults, surgery is much less common but may be necessary when sleep apnea is severe and other treatments have failed," Holfinger says. "The surgical options are meant to either remove or reposition tissue to further open the airway." Here are common surgical options, according to Randell:<ul><li>Nasal surgeries are used for patients who have a nasal obstruction contributing to OSA, but they are not considered effective for patients without that specific contributing factor. </li><li>Upper airway surgeries, like <a href="https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-treatments/p/palate-surgery/types/uppp.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">uvulopalatopharyngoplasty</a> (UPPP), removes extra tissue from the upper airway, while a <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15605-tonsillectomy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tonsillectomy</a> removes the tonsils. The effectiveness of these surgeries depends on the patient, and can range from 30% to 80%, Randell says. </li><li>Lower pharyngeal and laryngeal procedures, such as tongue reduction or advancement, mandibular advancement, or epiglottis replacement change the structure of the mouth and palate to prevent blockage of the airway. These often require more than one procedure and are effective in 35% to 65% of patients, Randell says. </li><li>Tracheostomy allows the lungs to access air from a hole in the throat, bypassing the airway. This is an extreme but very effective surgery, usually reserved for the most severe cases of sleep apnea. </li></ul><h2>The bottom line </h2>Learning to treat and manage your OSA is an important step for protecting your long-term health. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, you should speak with your doctor and find a treatment that works for you to avoid the more serious health complications of sleep apnea, like high blood pressure or heart disease. "Generally, sleep apnea should be considered a treatable condition, as there are multiple approaches available to control it on a nightly basis," says Holfinger. <h2>Related articles from <a href="https://www.insider.com/health-reference" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Health Reference</a>:</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/why-am-i-always-tired" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Why am I always tired? The main causes of sleepiness and fatigue</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/is-too-much-sleep-bad" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Is too much sleep bad? How oversleeping could signal something is wrong</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/natural-remedies-for-insomnia" target="_blank" rel="noopener">5 natural home remedies for insomnia that can help you get better sleep</a></li></ul>

You Searched For "tonsillectomy" and got 10 results

Former Miss Brazil has died at age 27 following a routine tonsil surgery, report says

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Former Miss Brazil has died at age 27 following a routine tonsil surgery, report says

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Yes, you can still get strep throat even if your tonsils are removed

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I experienced cording after my mastectomy. It's the one side effect I wasn't prepared for.

Rosemary Donahue

A man who kept getting sick actually had throat cancer caused by HPV caught via oral sex. He refuses to feel ashamed.

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How to treat sleep apnea and prevent long-term health complications

Kelly Burch

5 reasons why you have a sore throat but no fever

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I've treated bulldogs' health issues for over 30 years. I now help more Frenchies than ever and recommend knowing about all their medical needs before getting one.

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Time to go clothes shopping. How I lost 35 pounds during the COVID pandemic.

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How to treat sleep apnea and prevent long-term health complications

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