The Airway Disease Specialist - Medicine has developed from an art to a science. Genetics, nutrition, environmental pollutants and substance abuse are today considered important factors in the development of illnesses. Medical specialties have developed as a direct response to our increased knowledge about disease and its causes. SinuCare affiliates include three types of specialists whose training and expertise make them uniquely qualified to treat airway diseases.

Otolaryngologist: The Ear, Nose, And Throat Specialist - (ENT) Mary Queen of Scots became a widow at the age of 18. Her young husband died of an ear infection because his mother, Catherine de Medici, would not agree to treatment. The history of ear infections is as old as mankind. There is evidence of ear infections in 2600-year-old Egyptian mummies. Sinus infections, if left untreated, can lead to ear infections. Today, ear infections, although painful, are no longer potentially life threatening. Otolaryngology requires many years of study and training in the complex interactive system of ear, nose and throat. Because of this training, an ENT is especially able to treat functional concerns and diseases associated with this complex system.

The Allergy/Pulmonologist - Although we may try to protect ourselves, our sinuses and lungs continue to come into contact with particles that cause allergic reactions. The air we breathe assaults them with many antigens like dust, pollens and chemicals. Allergic reactions can also occur in the lungs from a particular food or medication. The great majority of asthmatic reactions are the result of exposure to allergens. Allergists have the expertise to treat airway diseases that can stem from a variety of causes. They also treat occupational lung diseases and asthma. Post-nasal drip may be related to an allergy or sinus irritation and should be evaluated.

The Infectious Disease Specialist - Organisms as small as a virus or bacteria cause infectious diseases. These organisms may come from outside the body or from within. Infectious disease specialists are called on to diagnose and treat resistant infections and to identify rare and exotic ones. An ID (Infectious Disease Specialist) is appropriate when short-term prescriptions for antibiotics fail to resolve an infection. Their understanding of infection causing microbes gives them a unique expertise in treating sinus infections. The ID affiliates of SinuCare are leading the way in offering effective care for those with acute or chronic sinus infections.

Our SinuCare consultants are trained and prepared to discuss your individual concerns, while helping you choose the appropriate airway specialist, in your neighborhood, who is associated with your insurance plan.