Computed Tomography (CT) is a highly regarded diagnostic imaging tool due to its ability to detect minute differences in tissue as well as its multiplanar reformatted imaging capabilities. An estimated 69 million CT scans are performed annually in the United States to diagnose conditions of the neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, extremities, cardiac system and sinus […]
One of the most anxiety producing events that may occur during a visit to the ENT is the nasal endoscopy or fiberoptic laryngoscopy. This is understandable. We are hard wired to avoid allowing foreign objects into our bodies, especially our noses. In addition, the endoscopy is done without general anesthesia -you are awake for this […]
There is a lot of confusion out there these days regarding what foods to eat. Eat this, not that. Well, now that may cause cancer in small rodents if taken in excess, so careful eating THAT. What’s an omnivore to do? So many options turns into so many possible land mines. Well, I hope that […]
Today, I will continue discussion of one of the newest technologies introduced to the armamentarium of the sinus surgeon, balloon sinuplasty. A a reminder, the balloon sinus dilator is a tool that utilizes a small wire catheter that can be placed into a sinus opening and then the balloon attached to the catheter inflated to […]
“What’s up with the balloon, doc?” That is a question that Dr. Sillers and I hear several times a week. I have written blog posts about balloon sinuplasty previously, which can be found on the website. So, for the two people who read that blog (thanks mom and dad!) some of this material will be […]
In consideration of the upcoming Spring Allergy Season, I thought a brief discussion of allergy testing might be appropriate. Allergy Testing Many patients who suffer from allergies have tried every medication on the market at some point and found no relief from their symptoms. Others have gotten some relief with medications, but they do not […]
Health care is changing. That’s not news, but these changes are affecting physicians and patients on a daily basis. It has become increasingly important for patients to understand how their insurance works for them and what their responsibilities are related to deductibles. Many patient’s deductibles have increased so that their payment responsibilities at the point […]
A recent article in the International Forum of Allergy & Rhinology (Vol. 1, Issue3, pp.219-224) got me thinking about what really concerns the patient considering endoscopic sinus surgery. What struck me, as an Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose, and Throat physician), is that what appears to worry patients is not always discussed with the patient before surgery. […]
Well, sports fans, as we look forward to Fall Saturdays spent cheering for our favorite college football team, many of us will be facing the prospect of suffering the other days of the week with seasonal allergies. Yes, ragweed, pigweed, Goosefoot, Lamb’s quarter (yummy!), and Russian thistle (oh, my!) are filling the air this month. […]
Blog post: “Doc, I got sinus!” We hear that statement a lot. Determining what a patient means by “sinus” is sometimes a challenge. Most people mean that they have nasal congestion and pressure. Some also have a feeling of nasal drainage. Many have sinus headaches. Some will present with the stuff they blow out of […]
If you listen to talk radio or read the advertisements in newspaper and other circular publications, you have likely heard about balloon sinuplasty. “That first breath of air through my nose.., etc.” Balloon sinusplasty is a relatively new tool, which can be used for surgical treatment of patients with chronic sinusitis. Long ago, (in a […]
The Alabama Nasal and Sinus Center exists to bring glory to God through Christ-centered service to patients, each other, and the community. We value excellence, integrity, and compassion as we provide the highest quality ear, nose, and throat care to all who come through our doors Learn more “What’s up with the balloon, doc?” That […]
“What’s up with the balloon, doc?” That is a question that Dr. Sillers and I hear several times a week. I have written blog posts about balloon sinuplasty previously, which can be found on the website. So, for the two people who read that blog (thanks mom and dad!) some of this material will be […]
“What’s up with the balloon, doc?” That is a question that Dr. Sillers and I hear several times a week. I have written blog posts about balloon sinuplasty previously, which can be found on the website. So, for the two people who read that blog (thanks mom and dad!) some of this material will be […]