FAQs
Q: What causes sudden hearing loss?
Sudden hearing loss can result from viral infections, trauma, autoimmune conditions, or even vascular events. It’s considered a medical emergency—early treatment can significantly improve recovery.
Q: Do I need earwax removal?
Most people don’t. But if you experience ear fullness, hearing loss, or ringing, impacted wax may be the culprit. We offer safe, in-office removal options.
Q: Are hearing aids the only solution for hearing loss?
Not always. Depending on the cause, options may include medical treatment, surgery (like stapedectomy or cochlear implants), or hearing aids. We’ll guide you through the best path.
Q: I’m always congested—could it be allergies or something else?
Chronic congestion may stem from allergies, sinusitis, nasal polyps, or structural issues like a deviated septum. We use endoscopy and allergy testing to pinpoint the cause.
Q: What is balloon sinuplasty?
It’s a minimally invasive procedure that gently opens blocked sinus passages using a small balloon catheter. No cutting, no downtime—just clearer breathing.
Q: Can nasal surgery fix my snoring?
If snoring is caused by nasal obstruction (like enlarged turbinates or a deviated septum), surgery may help. We’ll evaluate your airway and sleep patterns to determine the best approach.
Q: When should I worry about a sore throat?
If it lasts more than 10 days, is accompanied by fever, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing, it’s worth a closer look. We check for infections, reflux, and vocal cord issues.
Q: Can you help with chronic cough?
Yes. We assess for postnasal drip, reflux, asthma, and throat irritation. Treatment depends on the underlying cause—often it’s more than just a lingering cold.
Q: What’s the difference between snoring and sleep apnea?
Snoring is noisy breathing; sleep apnea involves pauses in breathing that can affect heart health and energy levels. A sleep study helps us diagnose and treat both.
Q: What are my options if I can’t tolerate CPAP?
We offer alternatives like oral appliances, nasal surgery, or Inspire® therapy. Our goal is to find a solution that fits your lifestyle and improves your sleep.
Q: What’s the difference between allergy shots and drops?
Both retrain your immune system. Shots are administered in-office; drops (sublingual immunotherapy) are taken at home. We’ll help you choose based on your lifestyle and allergy profile.
Q: Can allergies cause sinus infections?
Absolutely. Allergic inflammation can block drainage pathways, leading to recurrent infections. Treating the allergy often reduces sinus issues.
Q: Do I need a referral to see an ENT specialist?
It depends on your insurance plan. Some require a referral from your primary care provider—others allow direct scheduling. We’re happy to help you navigate it.
Q: What should I bring to my first visit?
Please bring your ID, insurance card, a list of medications, and any prior imaging or test results. If you’ve had a sleep study or allergy test, bring those too!
Q: Do you accept my insurance?
We accept most major insurance plans. Call our office or check our website for the latest list of accepted providers.