MIDWEST ENT UPDATE 9/29/2020

As we approach fall and winter, we wish to update you on your ear nose and throat health. We recommend that you have your humidifiers inspected and cleaned. If you don't have one, this may be a good time to purchase. When heaters go on, so should humidifiers. In addition, nasal saline sprays and netty pots often times aid in healthy noses and throats. It is becoming increasingly well known how important good nasal breathing is for our overall health. I am sending a link to a recent story aired on CBS News, featuring James Nestor, author of the recent book, "Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art". It is very insightful and I hope you enjoy it.

We continue to take very strict COVID precautions. We have had no cases as a result anyone coming to our office or having surgery with us at Northwestern Hospital.
Flu season is rapidly approaching and strongly encourage the flu vaccine.
We are very pleased with our results of the Inspire(inspiresleep.com)procedure for sleep apnea. This has proven to be an excellent outpatient procedure for those who are not getting good results with CPAP.
As always, we offer a full range of services for your hearing health. We provide the most current technology for testing your hearing and providing the most appropriate hearing aids for each individual.
Please feel free to call the office(312-988-7777) for further information on all of the above or to set up an appointment. You may also send individual emails through our patient portal.

Wishing you all good health and safety,

Gordon J. Siegel, M.D.,FACS
Assistant Clinical Professor
Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery             
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine

Signs You May Need Sinus Surgery

Oh, no, it's happening again. You recognize the symptoms of another sinus infection: the congestion, the inability to smell, the fever. You'vesinus surgery had sinusitis so often this year that the condition basically is chronic. You wonder if sinus surgery from Midwest Ear Nose and Throat in Chicago, IL is the answer. Dr. Gordon Siegel can evaluate you so you both understand your condition and choose the appropriate treatment.

Sinus locations

There are four of these cavities in the skull. All are lined with soft tissue, or mucosa. They are called:

  • The frontal sinuses, located above the eyebrows
  • The ethmoid sinuses, located at either side of the bridge of the nose
  • The maxillary sinuses, in the cheekbones
  • The sphenoid sinuses, behind the nose

Through chronic inflammation from allergies, deviation of the septum (divider) in the nose, polyps (small benign growths) or sinusitis, a bacterial or viral infection, these sinuses may swell and malfunction. Hence, patients experience pain, stuffiness, runny nose and general malaise.

Pinpointing the causes and treatments in Chicago

To determine treatment for persistent sinus problems, Dr. Siegel listens carefully to his patient's symptoms. Additionally, he may order X-ray imaging and three-dimensional CT scans to view the interior of the sinuses and what abnormalities (such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps) may be present.

Then, based on these findings, he devises an individualized care plan. Typically, otolaryngologists attempt to control active sinus issues with conservative treatments first. Sinus surgery is typically a last resort. Conservative treatments may include:

  • Antihistamines and/or antibiotics
  • Nasal decongestant sprays
  • Nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation

Sinus surgeries

Fortunately, most modern sinus surgeries are less invasive and lead to less downtime than older style procedures. Surgery allows the sinuses to drain and removes obstructions such as polyps.

One of the most frequent, effective and easiest to accomplish surgeries is sinus balloon dilation. During this quick, in-office treatment, Dr. Siegel inserts a small instrument through the nostril into the sinus. There, he inflates a small balloon which creates more room within the sinus, allowing for better drainage. Patients typically feel relief right away.

Other surgeries are Image-guided by CT scan, Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery, and Caldwell Luc Surgery. Each uses tiny instruments to relieve pressure, remove obstructions and promote proper drainage as needed.

Don't suffer

Get some relief from those problematic sinuses. Contact Midwest Ear Nose and Throat today for a consultation with Dr. Siegel in Chicago. Call (312) 988-7777.

Our Location

3 East Huron Chicago, IL, 60660, US

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

Closed

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

8:00 am-11:30 am

Sunday:

Closed