- Osteoporosis
- Headaches
- 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 LossHyperthyroidismis the name given to a disorder that is the result of too much TH hormone which causes the metabolism to speed up, leading to rapid or irregular heartbeat, anxiety, irritability, nervousness, fatigue, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, tremors, weight loss and increased bowel movements.
- Ear InfectionsIf you’re a parent, it probably comes as no surprise that middle ear infections are common in children, particularly those between the ages of six months and two years. Known as otitis media, these are caused by a number of factors, both physical and environmental.
- Constipation
- CataractsWhen too little PTH is produced, calcium levels in the blood drop while phosphorous levels rise. This condition is known as hypoparathyroidismand causes weakness, anxiety, fatigue, muscle aches and cramps, headaches, muscle spasms, cataracts, depression, mood swings, memory loss and tingling sensations in the fingers, toes and lips.
- Kidney StonesHyperparathyroidismoccurs when too much PTH is secreted into the bloodstream. This creates an imbalance of high calcium levels and low phosphorous levels. Symptoms include osteoporosis, kidney stones, bone and joint pain, weakness, lethargy, loss of concentration, depression, loss of appetite, constipation, nausea and vomiting. The cause may be linked to a benign tumor or enlarged parathyroid gland. Surgery is the preferred treatment for hyperparathyroidism.
- Multiple SclerosisCentral vertigo occurs when there is a problem in the brain, usually affecting the brainstem or the cerebellum. These parts of the brain are responsible for interactions between the visual and balance systems; any disturbance can lead to vertigo. The most common cause of central vertigo is a migraine headache. Other less common conditions that can trigger central vertigo include stroke, tumors, acoustic neuroma, multiple sclerosis, alcohol and certain drugs.
- Depression
- Anxiety
- HypothyroidismWhen the opposite occurs and too little TH hormone is produced, the metabolism slows down and results in a condition known as hypothyroidism. Symptoms include depression, fatigue, sore muscles, dry skin, puffy face, swollen legs, weight gain, constipation and sensitivity to cold.
- ThyroidHead and Neck. This includes treatment for thyroid disorders, lumps in the neck and cancer of the voice box.
- 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 TomographyTo confirm a nasal fracture, your doctor will perform a physical exam. He or she will press on the sides of your nose and look inside your nostrils for signs of broken bones. Topical anesthetics may be applied before the physical exam to control the pain. An imaging test is usually unnecessary, but based on the severity of your injury a CT scan may be required if a physical exam is too painful to be performed.
- ChemotherapyTreatment for throat cancer depends on the tumor’s size, location and whether it has spread to other areas of the body. Radiation therapy, surgery and chemotherapy – or a combination of the three – may be employed.
- 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.
- Minimally Invasive SurgeryWhen a patient has been diagnosed with an oral cancer, transoral robotic-assisted surgery (TORS) may be an option if the tumor needs to be removed. TORS is a minimally invasive surgery that can be done through the mouth. It uses a sophisticated, computer enhanced system to guide surgical tools. This system gives the surgeon an enhanced view of the cancer and surrounding tissue.
- Ear SurgeryThose with damage to the ears resulting from an accident or injury (such as a burn, laceration or torn piercing) are often viable candidates for reconstructive ear surgery. The type of surgery, and its success, depends on the severity of the trauma and may range from a simple outpatient procedure to a total ear reconstruction that takes months. Your best bet is to seek immediate medical attention following any type of trauma to the ears.
- OtolaryngologyThe expert staff at ENT Associates of Alabama bring more than 600 years of experience to the table as part of the state’s largest otolaryngology practice. We have 14 physicians ready to help serve you for your ear, nose and throat health care needs across nine locations.
- Reconstructive Surgery
- RhinoplastyRhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to repair or reshape the nose. It can change the size, width and profile of your nose; smooth out depressions or bumps on the bridge; and fix an imperfect nasal tip (one that is too large, droopy or curves upward). Large or wide nostrils may be reshaped, and a deviated septum can be corrected.
- OtoplastyReconstructive otoplasty can be a benefit to people suffering from microtia, a birth defect that results in undeveloped ears; the condition can be either unilateral, affecting one ear or bilateral, affecting both. Because the ears are underdeveloped, hearing loss is often associated with this condition. Reconstruction of the ear canals or surgically implanted hearing aids can drastically improve hearing.
- Laparoscopic SurgeryDuring the surgery, the surgeon will sit at a control console a short distance from the patient and operating table. They will precisely control the motion of the surgical instruments using two hand-and-finger control devices. The console display will show a magnified, 3-D view of the intended surgical area, which enables the surgeon to visualize the procedure in greater detail than laparoscopic surgery.
- Cosmetic Surgery
- Cyst
- LesionsThis can be caused by a number of factors including colds and viral infections, allergies, misuse of the voice, bacterial infections, acid reflux, sinus infections, vocal cord lesions and smoking. A certain degree of hoarseness is common as we age.
- Burns
- Physical TherapyTreatment varies depending on the type and severity of vertigo. Some forms disappear without treatment. The most common type, BPPV, responds well to head maneuvers, while other types are successfully treated with medication. When the condition persists, physical therapy can help.
- Occupational Therapy