- SinusitisAnything that irritates the nasal tissues can cause congestion. The list of possible causes is lengthy and includes infections (colds, influenza and acute or chronic sinusitis), allergies, structural abnormalities (deviated septum, enlarged adenoids/tonsils, nasal polyps or tumors), non-allergic rhinitis, dry air, cold temperatures, bright lights, cluster headaches, hormonal changes, medications, thyroid problems, spicy foods, tobacco smoke and stress.
- Medical Weight LossA diverticulum is a sac or pocket that forms on a portion of the body. A Zenker’s diverticulum is a pouch that develops on the pharynx, in the upper esophagus of the neck. It may trap food, causing difficulty or pain when swallowing. Other side effects include bad breath, regurgitation, coughing, unexplained weight loss, irritation of the throat and aspiration (the passage of food or liquid into the lungs). Zenker’s diverticulum is the most common type of esophageal diverticulum.
- Pediatric Care
- SnoringUPPP involves removal of tissues that may include the uvula, soft palate, tonsils, adenoids and pharynx. In some instances, a small portion of the tongue may be removed as well. If you suffer from snoring and sleep apnea due to excess tissue in the throat or mouth that causes blockages of the upper airway, are unable (or unwilling) to use continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) – the preferred method for treating sleep apnea – or do not respond to CPAP treatment, you may be a candidate for UPPP.
- Ear InfectionsIn addition to pain and discomfort, a middle ear infection can cause tiny air cells in the mastoid bone to fill up with pus. As the infection spreads, potentially reaching the brain, the bone is destroyed, resulting in hearing loss. If antibiotics are unsuccessful in clearing up the infection, then mastoid surgery may be needed.
- Sleep DisordersSleep is vital for good health. Experts recommend a minimum of seven to eight hours of sleep per night for most adults; a lack of sleep can affect your hormone levels, mood, weight and work or school performance and may result in physical, mental, social and emotional problems. Reaching that goal is difficult for many, thanks to the growing prevalence of sleep disorders.
- ImmunizationsYou can’t always stave off an ear infection, but there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of your child developing one. These include breast-feeding your baby, making sure he or she is up-to-date on vaccinations, practicing good hygiene (e.g., regular hand-washing), keeping your child away from tobacco smoke, and enrolling them in as small a day care or preschool facility as possible. Simply put, fewer children mean fewer germs.
- EndoscopyTo diagnose Zenker’s diverticulum, patients are usually given a barium swallow. This coats the esophagus and enables it to stand out in contrast on an X-ray. Alternatively, endoscopy or esophageal manometry may be performed.
- Anxiety
- Diabetes Care
- HypothyroidismWith hypothyroidism, the opposite occurs. Not enough hormones are produced, causing the metabolism to slow down. This leads to...
- ThyroidTreatment for thyroid disorders differs based on whether you are suffering from an overactive thyroid gland or an underactive gland. Hyperthyroidism is managed with radioactive iodide, anti-thyroid medication or surgery. People with hypothyroidism must take a synthetic thyroid hormone, usually for the rest of their lives.
- Thyroid CancerOther types of cancers in close proximity, like brain tumors and thyroid cancer, behave very differently and are not considered cancers of the neck and throat.
- MRIYour otolaryngologist can diagnose an acoustic neuroma primarily through a review of your symptoms in conjunction with a hearing test and imaging scans (CT or MRI). Because growth of the tumor is usually very slow, many times your doctor will simply want to monitor the tumor’s progress over time, especially when few symptoms are present. Regular imaging tests every six to 12 months can track any growth.
- X-Rays
- Computed TomographySymptoms of cholesteatoma include drainage from the ear, a feeling of fullness, hearing loss, earache and dizziness. Since these are also present in other conditions, tests such as CT scans and electronystagmography can be used to rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis. Cholesteatomas continue to grow if not treated and can lead to complications such as...
- ChemotherapyYour doctor will usually take either a medical or surgical approach for treatment of a salivary gland disorder, depending on the underlying cause and its progression. Any abnormal lump or swelling will require a biopsy to rule out the possibility of cancer. If you are diagnosed with a tumor, then surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or a combination will probably be recommended. Surgery might involve removing a portion or all of the salivary gland and any cancerous lymph nodes.
- Radiation TherapyRadiation therapy delivers radiation to the cancerous cells through X-rays or other high-energy beams, causing them to die. It is most effective in early-stage cancers, where it may be the only treatment necessary.
- OtolaryngologyAn otolaryngologist is a physician trained in the medical and surgical management of ear, nose and throat diseases and disorders. Commonly referred to as ENTs, they identify and treat diseases of the ears, nose, sinuses, larynx, mouth, throat and structures of the face and neck. Otolaryngologists complete up to 15 years of college and post-graduate training, including medical school. Many also complete a one- or two-year fellowship to gain more extensive training. All otolaryngologist must be certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology.
- LiposuctionCoblation palatoplasty is a surgical procedure used to treat snoring and mild cases of obstructive sleep apnea. It is similar in concept to liposuction, and involves reducing the size and thickness of the soft palate and uvula.
- RhinoplastyIf the deviated septum isn’t too severe, symptoms may respond to treatment with medications. Antihistamines, decongestants and nasal steroid sprays can reduce congestion and inflammation in some patients. When medicines are ineffective, a surgical procedure known as a septoplasty may be necessary to reposition a crooked septum and improve breathing. This involves removing excess bone or cartilage in order to create a larger breathing space, and is typically performed in an outpatient setting using local or general anesthesia. A rhinoplasty – surgery to reshape the nose – is often performed at the same time.
- Cyst
- LesionsAt CENTA Medical Group, we specialize in the medical and surgical treatment of the ears, nose, throat and related structures of the head and neck. We expertly evaluate and treat tonsil and adenoid disorders, nosebleeds, earaches, hoarseness, sinus disease, skin lesions of the head and neck, seasonal allergies and more. Our audiology services include diagnostic hearing evaluations, hearing aid dispensing and servicing, custom hearing protection, tinnitus management and treatment of dizziness and vertigo. When you come to CENTA, you can trust that you are receiving the highest level of care in the region.
- Allergies