Adult Otolaryngology
At Osborne Head and Neck Institute, we understand the effects that ear, nose and throat conditions have on a person’s quality of life. Allergies, sinusitis, ear infections, hearing loss, and sleeping and balance disorders can play major roles in a patient’s life and health.
Adult otolaryngology (ear, nose and throat) covers a wide range of conditions affecting the ears, nose, throat, head and neck. At OHNI, our doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of the ear, nose and throat conditions that commonly affect adults. All of our physicians are board-certified otolaryngologists trained in the medical and surgical management and treatment of these conditions and those that affect the head and neck.
Otolaryngology conditions may be chronic (long-standing) or acute (sudden onset), and may affect one or more of our senses. Treatment for adult otolaryngology conditions depends on the individual condition, as well as the age, health and medical history of the patient, but may include long-term medication or surgery. Some of the otolaryngology conditions commonly treated at OHNI include:
ALLERGIES
Allergies are a common condition affecting more than one out of every five people, and involve an abnormal response of the immune system triggered by a typically harmless substance. The substance, such as pollen, mold or animal dander, causes the body to produce antibodies and release a variety of chemicals, including histamine, which causes symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, itching or rashes.
Allergies can be seasonal or last all year long (perennial), but usually come and go throughout a patient’s life. While there is no cure for these symptoms, there are several treatments available to help minimize the frequency and severity of reactions.
SINUSITIS
Sinusitis is a common condition that involves an infection or inflammation of the sinuses, causing pain, tenderness and swelling in several areas of the face. This condition can be chronic or acute, and may develop as a result of a cold, bacterial infection, allergies or for unknown reasons.
While acute sinusitis can often be treated with antibiotics and decongestants, more severe, chronic cases may require surgery. Surgery for sinusitis aims to improve sinus drainage and reduce blockage of the nasal passages. This can be achieved by enlarging the opening of the sinuses, removing any polyps and/or correcting nasal deformities and obstructions. After surgery for sinusitis, most people experience significant relief in their symptoms and are able to enjoy a better quality of life.
HEAD & NECK CANCER
Head and neck cancers account for 3-5% of all cancers and affect over 50,000 Americans each year. These diseases can affect different areas of the head and neck, although most begin in the moist, mucosal areas such as the mouth, nose and throat. Head and neck cancers are most often caused by tobacco and alcohol use, but may also be a result of sun exposure, HPV and radiation exposure.
Fortunately, many patients with head and neck cancer experience symptoms right away, which leads to an early diagnosis and more effective treatment. Symptoms of head and neck cancer may include hoarseness, a growth in the mouth, blood in saliva or difficulty swallowing.
HEARING & BALANCE DISORDERS
Balance disorders are complex conditions that cause feelings of unsteadiness or wooziness and the sensation of spinning, moving or floating. This may be caused by a part of the inner ear, known as the labyrinth. The labyrinth interacts with other body systems such as the eyes, bones and joints. Problems within any of these systems can lead to balance disorders, causing symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, lightheadedness, nausea and vomiting.
Some of the most common balance disorders include: labyrinthitis which is caused by an infection or inflammation of the inner ear; Meniere’s disease which is caused by an inner ear fluid imbalance; or a perilymph fistula which involves inner ear fluid leakage due to injury or overexertion.
Hearing loss is most often caused by noise exposure or age. Hearing loss may cause ringing, hissing or buzzing in the ear, muffled hearing (in person or television) and difficulty understanding speech. Many patients with hearing loss are not aware of their condition, but may be suffering in their everyday life.
Virtual & Office Appointments Available