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Ask the Doc: How can I stop snoring?

Snoring is common, but factors like alcohol, medications, weight, smoking, and sleep position can all make it worse. In this Ask the Doc video, Harvard Medical School Dean Dr. David Roberts shares tips that can help reduce snoring and improve your breathing at night.

Ways to regain your sense of smell

People who lose their sense of smell due to a virus or another cause are advised to begin smell retraining therapy as soon as possible. The therapy involves sniffing a wide variety of odor-generating elements, such as lemons or oranges, flowery perfumes, peanut butter, eucalyptus, rosemary, cinnamon, pine, peppermint, or cloves. Each material should be sniffed once or twice a day, for 30 seconds to two minutes. While sniffing, it helps to think about the scent and recall moments of smelling it in the past. This process helps trigger odor particle recognition, which is deeply seated in the brain and must be stimulated to re-establish function.

Constantly clearing your throat? Here's what to try

When you have a cold, it's normal to feel mucus sitting at the back of your throat, and to have the urge to clear it. Typically this sensation lasts just a few days, but what happens if it lingers for weeks or months?

What can I do to stop postnasal drip?

A constant drip in the back of your throat isn’t always from a cold. Saline rinses, humid air, and cautious decongestant use may all help put an end to postnasal drip.

Is losing sense of smell a normal part of aging?

A fading sense of smell is common with age but can signal other problems. Learn when to seek testing and which treatable issues may be involved.

How do you stop nosebleeds?

Most nosebleeds can be controlled without a hospital visit. Learn the key at-home step that helps stop bleeding fast and when to seek care.

What could be causing a constant sensation of mucus in my throat?

A stubborn "lump in the throat" feeling can stem from postnasal drip, reflux, irritation, or even a small pouch in the esophagus. Explore possible causes.

What could cause a swollen tongue?

Tongue swelling can stem from drug reactions, infections, vitamin deficits, thyroid issues, or rare disorders. Learn which clues help sort out the cause.

Why have I lost my sense of taste?

Diminished flavor can stem from aging, nasal issues, infections, or certain blood pressure drugs. Small medication tweaks and habits may help restore it.

Does sneezing when I step into the sunlight mean I'm allergic to it?

Sudden bursts of sneezing in bright light can seem like an odd "sun allergy." Explore what's happening in the nerves that link your eyes and nose.

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