Acute and Chronic Ear Infections
Ear infections, also known as otitis media, are one of the most common conditions, affecting up to 75 percent of children in the US by the time they reach the age of three. This condition develops as a result of a buildup of fluid in the Eustachian tubes, which connect the eardrum to the nose. Patients with an ear infection may experience earache, fever, ear discharge, headache and dizziness. Ear infections rarely affect adults.
Allergy Management
Allergies are a common condition that affect one out of every 5 people and are caused by an immune system response to certain triggers that are otherwise harmless. These triggers cause symptoms such as a runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, headaches, stomach pain and diarrhea. Although there is no cure for allergic reactions, there are many different treatment options available to help control the symptoms of allergies.
Balance Disorders
Normal balance requires the work of three sensory systems: visual, vestibular (found in the inner ear), and somatosensory (sensations from the muscular and skeletal systems). These systems, along with the brain and nervous system, can be the source of balance problems. When these systems do not function properly, individuals may experience spinning, light-headedness, trouble focusing the eyes, and poor balance.
Deviated Septum
A deviated septum is a common condition that involves a displacement of the septum, the wall that separates the nostrils, to one side of the nose. About 80 percent of people have a deviated septum, which often develops as a result of an injury to the nose. This condition makes one nasal passage smaller than the other, which can affect breathing if the displacement is great enough. Treatment for a deviated septum can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the symptoms associated. For most patients, this condition can be managed through decongestants and antihistamines that aim to reduce nasal congestion. For more severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the displacement.
Ear Tubes
Children who suffer from repeat ear infections or fluid in the ear may benefit from ear tubes. Ear tubes are plastic inserts that are surgically placed in the eardrum under general anesthesia. The insertion of ear tubes can help allow air to enter the middle ear, allow fluid out of the ear, prevent future buildup of fluid and restore hearing.
Sinus Surgery
Sinus surgery is usually performed to enlarge the openings that drain the sinuses. A patient may choose surgery if other treatments (i.e. medications, nasal sprays, humidifiers, etc.) have failed to alleviate chronic sinus conditions. Usually these procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. Recovery symptoms may include some bruising, swelling, and discomfort.
Sleep Apnea Surgery
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that involves repeated breathing interruptions during sleep that may occur hundred of times each night as a result of structural abnormalities or brain malfunctions. This condition affects about 18 million people of all ages in the US with a risk of many serious complications. Fortunately, most cases of sleep apnea can be effectively diagnosed and treated.
Tonsils & Adenoids
The tonsils are two masses of tissue found on either side of the back of the throat. The adenoids are located high in the throat behind the nose and roof of the mouth. Together they form part of the ring of glandular tissue at the back of the throat. The tonsils and adenoids assist the body in defense against infection by "sampling" entering bacteria and viruses and becoming infected themselves. They then help form antibodies to resist and fight future infections. However, the tonsils and adenoids often become susceptible to recurrent bacterial infections and can even trigger airway obstruction.
Vocal Cord Paralysis
Vocal cord paralysis is a common disorder that involves a malfunction in one or both of the vocal cords, the tissues that allow us to speak. When a vocal cord does not open or close properly, the airway is left open which can allow food or liquids to slip through. This causes difficulty swallowing, coughing and increased breathing, and often occurs after neck or throat surgery.
