General Otolaryngology

SLUCare Physican Group general otolaryngologists evaluate and treat disorders of the ears, nose and throat.

For more complicated ENT conditions, such as cancer of the head and neck, and complex sinus and ear problems, our general otolaryngologists can refer you to the most narrowly focused specialists at Saint Louis University for expert treatment.

Common Ear, Nose and Throat Problems

Ear: Typical ear problems include hearing loss, ringing, ear infections, dizziness and wax accumulation. SLUCare offers a full range of audiologic and balance testing to evaluate hearing loss and balance problems.

Nose: Nose and sinus disorders are among the most common reasons for seeing a general otolaryngologist. We evaluate and treat excess nasal mucous, nosebleeds, sinus infections, nasal obstruction and nasal polyps. We also offer allergy testing for adults and children, along with the latest treatments for nasal allergies — including both allergy shots and allergy drops (sublingual immunotherapy).

Throat: We treat enlarged/infected tonsils, throat pain, hoarseness, throat mucous/phlegm (drainage), persistent coughing and difficulty swallowing. Diagnosis can usually be established with a routine visit. Our state-of-the-art fiber optic technology allows for a thorough and comfortable evaluation of the airway.

Sleep Apnea & the SLUCare Sleep Disorders Center

We also treat a breathing disorder during sleep called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Approximately 4 percent of adults suffer with this illness characterized by loud snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness. The diagnosis is made by means of a sleep study (polysomnogram) done at a special facility.

Treatment options include weight loss, devices (CPAP) and surgery to help with sleep disorders. The physicians of our department are part of the SLUCare Sleep Disorders Center team and can perform the most up-to-date surgical procedures for OSA and snoring, if surgery is deemed appropriate for these conditions.

Other Reasons to See a SLUCare Otolaryngologist

A variety of ENT problems may result from illnesses in other parts of the body. Skin diseases can produce problems in the mouth, diabetes may predispose people to ear, nose and throat infections, AIDS can cause tumors in the mouth and throat, and nose bleeds can be caused by blood thinning medications used to prevent heart attack and stroke.

Some blood pressure and heart medications can cause severe cough and sensations of throat irritation/drainage. Frequently stomach acid reflux could cause similar symptoms in the throat. ENT manifestations of diseases elsewhere in the body are among the most common reasons for in-hospital consultations.