An ENT doctor is a physician specializing in problems with the ear, nose, and throat. You may benefit from their services if you are dealing with problems like sleep apnea, chronic sinus infections, seasonal allergies, or hearing loss. Children with chronic ear infections may also benefit from the care of an ENT doctor. Children or adults having problems with their sinuses may also need the care of a sinus surgery and ENT doctor in Mission Viejo.
Nasal Polyps
A nasal polyp is a soft growth that occurs in the nose. This type of polyp is extremely common, being found among as many as 30 percent of American adults. Nasal polyps do not normally require any treatment unless they block nasal passages and obstruct breathing. The cause of nasal polyps is not always known, although they occur more frequently in those with allergies or asthma. There also seems to be a genetic component of nasal polyps for many people. If you have nasal polyps, you may experience symptoms like blockage of nasal airflow, difficulty in breathing through your nose, and a decreased sense of smell.
Your sinus surgery and ENT doctor in Mission Viejo may need to intervene if you have nasal polyps that have formed on both sides of the nose. Polyps may also require removal if they are not responsive to medication or lead to chronic sinus infections. Since nasal polyps are frequently known to return after removal, patients need to follow up with their ENT doctor in Mission Viejo to prevent them from growing
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a medical condition that the general public has become more aware of in recent years. It can begin as a familiar, normally benign problem known as snoring. Sleep apnea can occur during sleep when there is a obstruction of breathing, which may actually halt the breath numerous times throughout the night.
Some common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Frequently waking throughout the night
- Daytime sleepiness
- Interrupted sleep
- Poor concentration or decreased energy
Sleep Apnea Complications
Although sleep apnea is not normally a life-threatening problem, it could create serious medical problems that require the intervention of a sinus surgery and ENT doctor in Mission Viejo. The sleep apnea sufferer may not even realize there is a problem. Complications of sleep apnea include an increased risk for stroke and heart attack. Anyone who snores or is believed to have sleep apnea should be tested.
Septoplasty Surgical Intervention For Sleep Apnea
The septum is a bridge containing the bone and cartilage separating your nostrils. If the nasal passages are not straight, your breathing can be affected. A septoplasty procedure has a goal of straightening the nasal septum so that it is easier to breathe.
Hyoid Suspension
When sleep apnea is due to a blockage under the tongue, a hyoid suspension may be necessary. Your sinus surgery and ENT doctor in Mission Viejo will move the hyoid bone and neighboring muscles to help open up your airway.