Relief and Improved Quality of Life Thanks to Advances in the Treatment of Chronic Sinusitis, Allergies, Sleep Apnea and More

For many people, relief from chronic sinusitis, sleep apnea, snoring and allergies is just a phone call away. Unfortunately, fear and misinformation prevents them from making an appointment with the doctor who can help—an otolaryngologist. Also known as an ENT or ear, nose and throat doctor, otolaryngologists specialize in the surgical and medical management of conditions of the head and neck.

“I’ve heard it time and time again,” says Gateway Regional Medical Center Otolaryngologist Barry Rosenblum M.D., “A patient will reduce or find complete relief from their symptoms—and express regret for not calling sooner. I understand; it’s a fear of the unknown. In most cases this hesitation is based on second-hand information or treatments that are no longer used.”

According to Dr. Rosenblum, there have been significant advances in the medical and surgical treatment of conditions such as chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps.  “We are not your father’s ENT,” says Rosenblum. “Many common conditions can now be treated with minimally invasive procedures in the office.”

One example is chronic sinusitis. The most up-to-date treatment delivers relief via a simple balloon procedure. “We can treat the patient right in our office,” says Rosenblum. “There’s no lengthy recovery period and we rarely use any uncomfortable bandages or packing. The patient usually feels better right away.”

Another significant advancement is in the treatment of nasal polyps. Today’s ENT uses small steroid stents to shrink and manage recurring polyps. For those that suffer from chronic runny nose, they can find relief via a new approach that freezes the “overactive” nerve that causes the nose to run constantly. There is also a new device that can place tubes for chronic ear infections without anesthesia, using only a local anesthetic, in the office setting.

Dr. Rosenblum and staff also treat patients of all ages with acute conditions such as sinus infections, sore throats or earaches. “Our team is dedicated to helping all of our patients feel better and enjoy an improved quality of life—whatever their concern may be. I am a good listener, have an open mind, and schedule our patients to allow for plenty of time to discuss options. I don’t want their fears to keep them from finding relief. There is a lot we can do to make them feel better.”

Dr. Barry Rosenblum is an Otolaryngologist-ENT with Gateway Medical Group. He is accepting new patients in both Glen Carbon and Granite City. To make an appointment, call 618-288-6870.