ENT DOCTOR ROBBINSVILLE, NJ

Allergies

An allergy is a reaction that is caused by an overactive immune system. When an allergic reaction occurs, it is the body reacting to a harmless substance as though it were a threat. 

Allergies can cause a lot of misery for people, especially seasonal allergies in the spring and fall. Other allergies can be a problem year-round, such as allergies to dust mites, pets, and certain foods. Even people who can avoid their allergens may find it inconvenient to do so. 

People with allergies may suffer from congestion, watery eyes, lung problems, asthma, rashes, and hives. Very serious allergies, which are often triggered by certain foods or bee stings, can cause anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening. 

Some people control their allergies using over-the-counter medications. Although this can be effective, these medications often cause drowsiness or other unwanted side effects. At Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy, our allergists and immunologists work with each patient to develop a custom treatment plan. Some people respond well to allergy shots and other treatments at our office. 

Parents are encouraged to bring their children in as soon as possible if they suspect an allergy. Addressing the problem before it gets worse can be very helpful and improve a child’s quality of life. Allergy testing is available for both children and adults.

Nose and Sinus Problems

The sinuses are air-filled cavities around the nose and eyes, which are responsible for producing mucus that moisturizes the lining of the nose and protects against pollution, dirt, and bacteria. Normally, the mucus drains as it is supposed to and we can go about our day in comfort. 

However, when the sinuses become irritated and inflamed or swollen, they do not drain as they are supposed to. This is a condition known as sinusitis. Sinusitis can lead to pain, congestion, and other symptoms. Some people live with sinusitis for months, enduring daily discomfort before seeking treatment. 

There are many different nose and sinus problems that can affect normal breathing and daily comfort. Nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or swelling caused by allergies can all affect breathing or lead to chronic sinusitis. Some of these problems may resolve on their own, while others require treatment. 

The skilled Ear, Nose & Throat physicians at Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy in Robbinsville are experienced in treating nose and sinus problems. They can provide a diagnosis and determine if surgery is necessary or if a patient’s symptoms can be treated with less invasive therapies. 

Head and Neck Disorders

Nearly every condition we treat at Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy falls into the category of head and neck disorders. Snoring and sleep problems, nose and sinus issues, voice and swallowing, and hearing/ear problems involve the whole ENT system. However, there are many complex head and neck issues that may require coordinated care between different specialists. 

Our board-certified otolaryngologists have experience with all kinds of head and neck issues, including GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and cancers of the head and neck. Regardless of the issue, our patients have the advantage of an experienced team of ENT specialists to pinpoint and treat the problem. 

Ears and Hearing

Many people begin to lose their hearing as they get older. Some children are born hearing-impaired. Others lose their ability to hear clearly after working in noisy environments. This loss of normal hearing can be devastating and affect a person’s quality of life or a child’s ability to learn and keep up in school. 

Getting a hearing test at the first sign of hearing loss is important. There are different types of hearing loss, based on which areas of the ear have suffered damage or if the nerves or brain have been affected. An audiologist can evaluate a person’s hearing and ask questions to determine the source of the hearing loss. Some types of hearing impairment can be treated. Many people benefit from hearing aids and other assistive devices. 

Other ear issues can include tinnitus (persisting ringing in the ears) and dizziness, which is often caused by problems with the inner ear. If you have noticed changes in your hearing or ear health, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with an otolaryngologist or audiologist. If you are a parent, you should have your children’s hearing tested regularly. Missing signs of hearing loss could affect a child’s ability to develop properly. 

Voice and Swallowing

People who have frequent sore throats, a feeling of a constant “lump” in their throat, or changes to their voice may need help from an expert in voice and swallowing disorders. Many people seek treatment for these problems due to discomfort or professional need. 

People who sing or perform for a living depend on their voice. Our speech-language pathologists can help with any voice or swallowing issues and can coordinate with other specialists at the office if necessary. 

Snoring & Sleep Disorders

Snoring is a common problem that can contribute to poor sleep quality, disrupt the sleep of others, and sometimes indicates a more serious health problem, like sleep apnea. People who snore often don’t realize it until someone else mentions that the noise is affecting their sleep. 

Generally, snoring is caused by an obstruction that causes choppy airflow during sleep. Obstructed airflow leads to vibrations in the soft tissues of the nose and mouth, causing the snoring sound. Some people snore intermittently, while others are loud and constant snorers. 

Many people are surprised by how their quality of life improves after they get an evaluation and treatment for snoring with the experts at Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy. Treatment for snoring can be as simple as using allergy medication or an oral device similar to a mouthguard. Other obstructions may require surgery. 

Some patients who snore are also diagnosed with sleep apnea, which is a condition that causes breathing to pause intermittently during the night. Patients with severe sleep apnea stop breathing many times a night. This causes poor sleep and can lead to a variety of symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, trouble concentrating, moodiness, and even bed-wetting. 

Sleep apnea is associated with a variety of severe health conditions and is more common among people who are overweight. It is crucial to get treatment for sleep apnea as soon as possible to reduce health risks. 

The most common treatment for sleep apnea is the use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine to keep the airways open. This is typically combined with lifestyle modifications for the best results. Occasionally, surgery may be recommended.

Pediatric ENT Care

Young children often suffer from ENT problems like ear infections, speech disorders, and allergies. Some children are also born with hearing impairments or develop asthma early in life. While these are similar issues to those adults face, special knowledge of pediatric ENT care is necessary for treating children. 

ENT problems in children and teens should be addressed immediately. Some conditions can disrupt normal growth or make it difficult for kids to keep up in school. Our compassionate pediatric ENT experts in Robbinsville will give you peace of mind that your child is in the best possible hands.