Health & Care

Ear, Nose and Throat Information

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Woman holding a painful throat
September 5, 2022
Health & Care
ENT Pembroke Pines

Where to Get Treatment for Throat Cancer

Throat cancer is an uncommon cancer that originates in the cells of the neck and throat. Symptoms include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, a lump in the neck, pain when swallowing, or pain radiating from the neck.

Most throat cancers are discovered early when you can still seek treatment. You can find the best throat cancer treatment in Pembroke Pines, FL at Southeastern Ear, Nose, Throat and Sinus Center. We offer a range of treatment options for tumors of the salivary glands, sore throat, and throat cancer, and we provide same-day diagnosis. Find out more about the various treatments for throat cancer.

Radiation Therapy

This treatment involves directing high-energy radiation beams at the tumor to eliminate cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be used alone or in combination with other treatments for early-stage cancers that haven’t spread to the lymph nodes. Some of the most commonly used radiation treatments include:

  • Brachytherapy: Radioactive seeds are placed in the body to deliver radiation directly to the cancer site.
  • 3D-conformal radiation therapy: Radiation is applied to different sections of the body for cancers that have spread to those parts.
  • Intensity-modulated radiotherapy: Radiation is applied following the specific shape of the tumor.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy refers to the prescription of drugs that kill cancer cells. The main effect of chemotherapy is to stop or slow cancer growth by killing cancer cells and preventing them from dividing. Some common types of chemotherapy are cyclophosphamide, docetaxel, oxaliplatin, and cetuximab.

Targeted drug therapy

It involves the use of drugs that attack cancer cells. They are given to Clients with small cancers whose tumors measure less than 2 cm or haven’t spread and don’t appear to be likely to spread. Radiation therapy, surgery, and chemotherapy can also be used with targeted drug therapy.

Surgery

Throat cancer is treated with surgery, which means the surgeon removes the cancerous tissues. If the tumor is localized and doesn’t spread, surgery is used to eliminate it.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy involves administering drugs that stimulate the immune system to kill tumor cells. It is more or less a natural treatment for throat cancer that consists of the injection of vaccines using the client’s immune system to fight against the disease.

Rehabilitation After Treatment

After treatment, keeping the voice box and neck joints properly working is essential. Treatment for throat cancer often causes complications during and after therapy, which you can treat with rehabilitation. Patients are encouraged to consult with a speech therapist as soon as they are done with treatment to regain full use of their voice box. You can also use natural treatments for throat cancer, such as nutrition, stress management, and relaxation to ease pain and muscle tension.

Conclusion

Although treatments for throat cancer involve different factors, treatment can be done without long-term side effects. To make the most of your treatment options, take the necessary steps to stay healthy and receive high-quality care from a specialist. With proper planning, you can find the best throat cancer treatment in Pembroke Pines, FL. Contact Southeastern Ear, Nose, Throat and Sinus Center today to schedule an appointment.

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Doctor inspecting patient's ear
August 9, 2022
Health & Care
ENT Pembroke Pines

Ear Wax Removal Doctor – Here’s Some Advice For Ear Wax Removal Surgery

If you’ve suffered from ear issues that are attributed to having a build-up of ear wax, it can require undergoing ear wax removal surgery. The procedure is often necessary for treating chronic earaches, itchiness, coughing, ringing in the ears, and hearing loss. If you’re preparing for ear wax removal by a doctor, there are a few facts to learn in advance while in the care of a medical professional.

When the Surgery Is Necessary

You need to be diagnosed with excess ear wax by an ear wax removal doctor before scheduling wax removal surgery at a location like Southeastern Ear, Nose, Throat Sinus Center. A medical professional will recommend the procedure if you have difficulty hearing and can’t remove the excess wax with a thorough at-home cleaning.

Some people produce a lot more ear wax, which can increase the risk of issues that develop, especially as it gets pushed deeper into the ear canal. Excess earwax is also produced when spending a lot of time swimming.

Proper wax removal surgery is crucial for avoiding damage to the eardrum, which can result in permanent hearing loss in both children and adults.

Manual Removal of the Wax

One of the main techniques an ear doctor uses to clean out excess earwax is by manually removing it with a curette and forceps. This can make it easier to clear away wax that has formed a plug in the ear. A solution that contains 50% water and 50% hydrogen peroxide may also be used, which breaks down the wax by softening it, making it easier to remove from the ear canal.

Additional methods of ear wax removal by doctors include using a rubber ball syringe with warm water, which softens the wax and makes it easier to slowly remove. Some doctors also resort to irrigation and suction.

After the Procedure

Following the procedure, you can expect to experience a minimal amount of sensitivity, which may only last for a few days. Many people immediately experience better hearing due to the removal of the excess wax. Your doctor may advise using topical solutions and ointments to offer relief during the recovery process. You can also learn how to prevent the wax from building up again in the future to prevent potential problems that can return following the surgery.

If you continue to have a wax build-up problem, your ear doctor may suggest using wax-removal medicine like carbamide peroxide. The drops are effective in clearing the excess earwax to prevent it from causing problems over time. The medication causes oxygen to be released, which produces a lot of foam in the ear canal.

This type of surgery can treat a feeling of fullness you feel in your ear and can make it easier to hear when you continue to experience ear-related issues. Contact us today to learn more about the procedure and how you can benefit from it at our location.

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Allergies in Pembroke Pines
January 15, 2022
Health & Care
ENT Pembroke Pines

How to Prepare for The Upcoming Allergy Season

If you’re like most people, you start to dread the approach of spring and summer when all those pesky allergies start up again. Pollen counts are high, your eyes are itchy, and your nose is constantly congested. This year, don’t let allergy season get the best of you. Read on for some tips from the experts on how to prepare for ear, nose, and throat allergy season and minimize its effects.  

1. Clean Your Home 

Dirty homes are the perfect breeding ground for allergens during allergy season. Not only can this cause a lot of discomfort for those who suffer from allergies, but it can also lead to health problems like ear, nose, and throat infections. Keeping your house clean is one of the best ways to get allergy relief. 

Dust and vacuum frequently to eliminate any allergens lurking in your environment. If you have pets, make sure to keep them groomed and bathed regularly. Pets can carry a lot of allergens, so it’s essential to minimize their exposure as much as possible. 

2. Eat Healthily 

Eating a balanced diet is essential all year round, but it’s critical during allergy season. 

Foods high in antioxidants can help boost your immune system and minimize your symptoms. Some good options include berries, leafy green vegetables, and citrus fruits. 

Some of the best fruits and vegetables to eat when trying to avoid ear, nose, and throat infections during the allergy season include kale, spinach, and broccoli. Avoid foods that are known to aggravate allergies, such as dairy products, processed foods, and artificial sweeteners. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and help flush allergens from your system. 

3. Manage Your Stress 

Allergies can be very frustrating and overwhelming, especially when they seem to strike at the worst possible time. It’s essential to find ways to manage your stress during allergy season. Practices like yoga or meditation can help you stay calm and in control. 

If stress is causing your allergies to flare up, talk to your Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor about strategies for managing them. 

4. Use Medication Wisely 

Don’t wait until your allergies are out of control before taking medication. Start taking medications early in the season, and follow the instructions carefully. Please don’t take more than prescribed, and don’t use them for longer than necessary. An ENT doctor in South FL can provide you with all the information you need to get through allergy season unscathed. It can be an excellent deal for allergy relief. 

5. See an ENT Doctor 

It is a good idea to see an ENT doctor. ENT doctors specialize in treating ears, nose, and throat conditions. They can be swamped during the allergy season, helping patients get allergy relief from their symptoms. An ENT doctor in South FL, as mentioned earlier, is highly recommended. 

They may also recommend allergy shots or other therapies that can help minimize your symptoms. Don’t let allergy season keep you from enjoying life. 

Conclusion  

You can do many things to prepare for the upcoming allergy season. By following these tips, you can minimize your symptoms and enjoy life to the fullest. 

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Relief from sinusitis with Balloon Sinuplasty
August 4, 2020
Health & Care
ENT Pembroke Pines

Suffering From Chronic Sinusitis?

Balloon Sinuplasty is an In-Office ENT Procedure That Can Help

Do you suffer from chronic sinusitis?  Are you on a first name basis with your pharmacist because all you do is fill prescriptions?

According to the CDC, sinusitis affects nearly 30 million Americans, including many in Pembroke Pines and Davie. Each year, sinusitis sufferers spend billions of dollars on over-the-counter treatments that often provide only minimal relief.

A Solution for Sinus Sufferers!

The good news is, there is a solution!  Balloon sinus dilation, also known as Balloon Sinuplasty, is a minimally invasive method of reopening and enlarging sinus openings while preserving tissue and maintaining normal sinus anatomy.  Dr. Contrucci performs this minimally invasive surgery on an outpatient basis in his Pembroke Pines offices for patients in Hollywood, Davie, Pembroke Pines and throughout Broward County

The days and weeks of those miserable sinus infection and steroids galore can truly be resolved. 

Who is a Candidate for Balloon Sinus Dilation?

Balloon Sinuplasty is typically appropriate for the following individuals:

  • Patients with recurrent or chronic sinusitis
  • Patients with limited to moderate disease of the frontal, sphenoid, or maxillary sinuses
  • Patients whose sinusitis symptoms have not responded to over-the-counter and prescription drug treatments

Balloon Sinus Dilation (Balloon Sinuplasty) is not the answer for everyone.

To determine if Balloon Sinuplasty is the right treatment for your sinus symptoms, contact Southeastern Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert Contrucci at our Pembroke Pines medical office.

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Swimmers ear Davie Florida
May 23, 2019
Health & Care
ENT Pembroke Pines

Don’t Let Swimmer’s Ear Hurt Your Pembroke Pines Summer Fun

With summer 2019 on its way and an increase in pool and beach activities, swimmer’s is close behind! 

But what many people may not realize is that this painful ear condition can occur on dry land as well.

Indeed, it’s a curious fact that is more common non-swimmers, such as farmers, who spend a lot of time working outside, according to research by the University of Iowa.

Getting water trapped in the ear due to excessive exposure of the ears to water is still one of the most common causes of this ear condition.

As one becomes more aware of the symptoms of swimmer’s ear, the sooner it can be treated by ENT Dr. Robert Contrucci and our magnificent staff here at Southeastern ENT in Pembroke Pines.

Swimmer’s ear, medically known as otitis externa, is an infection in your ear canal. That’s the tube that runs from the hole on the outside of your ear to your eardrum.

Symptoms include:

  • Itchiness in the ear
  • Pain, which can become severe
  • Trouble hearing (sound may seem muffled as your ear canal swells)
  • Fluid or pus draining out of the ear

There are both acute ( short term ) and chronic ( long term ) types of this condition.

So if you are in Pembroke Pines, Davie or surrounding communities and suffering from the symptoms of ‘swimmer’s ear’, call (954) 437-5333 today to schedule your appointment or click here!

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