Ears Nose And Throat in New Jersey
Otolaryngology is the branch of medicine and surgery that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ear, nose, throat, and head and neck disorders. Otolaryngologists are trained in the medical and surgical management and treatment of patients with diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat (ENT), and related structures of the head and neck.
Ear nose and throat diseases
Our ENT services at the Princeton office of Dr. Nicole Schrader include diagnostics and treatment for sinusitis, sinus surgery, sleep apnea, sleep disorders, facial plastic surgery, laser surgery, nasal and laser endoscopic sinus surgery, voice disorders, pediatric ENT care, and rhinoplasty. We offer a variety of specialized procedures that utilizes the latest technology.
Allergy and Asthma
At least one out of every 5 Americans suffers from allergies. Common causes of allergy symptoms include food allergies such as peanut allergy or milk allergy, and seasonal allergies resulting from grass, weed, tree pollen, or various molds. Cat allergies and dog allergies can also cause miserable symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion, and wheezing. Allergic skin conditions can cause a rash and itchy skin. Allergies can lead to more severe health problems including sinusitis and asthma.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, as many as half of all people with moderate to severe asthma also have chronic sinusitis. Along with all the problems caused by asthma, having sinusitis can be tough to handle. It can make you feel sick and miserable. Without good treatment, it can last for months or even years. What’s worse, one condition can worsen the other. Sinusitis has been associated with more severe cases of asthma. Not only does having asthma increase the odds of getting a sinus infection, but a sinus infection can make your asthma harder to control.
There are lots of treatments available for both sinus infections and asthma. Studies show that treating one condition often helps relieve the symptoms of the other. We can provide a diagnosis and a comprehensive plan of treatment.
Ear Disorders, Ear Infections
The unique domain of otolaryngologists is the treatment of ear disorders. They are trained in both the medical and surgical treatment of hearing loss, ear infections, balance disorders, ear noise (tinnitus), and some cranial nerve disorders. Otolaryngologists also manage congenital (birth) disorders of the outer and inner ear.
Ear problems may be caused by different health problems. In children, ear pain is more likely to be a symptom of an infection, inflammation, or fluid buildup in the external or middle ear. Ear pain at any age may be a symptom of acute otitis media or infection of the middle ear, otitis externa or inflammation or infection of the ear canal, or otitis media with effusion or buildup of fluid behind the eardrum. Ear problems can also be genetic or caused by injury. Common injuries include, a fall or direct blow to the side of the head, loud noises, atmospheric pressure changes (barotrauma,) swimmer’s ear, forceful cleaning of the ear canal, burns, frostbite, and objects placed in the ear.
Seeing a physician that is also an otolaryngologist is recommended because the ear shares nerves with other parts of the face, eyes, jaw, teeth, and upper neck. Pain in the ear may be coming from another part of the head or neck also called referred ear pain. Causes of referred ear pain can include dental problems, jaw pain (temporomandibular disorder,) salivary gland infection, or a sinus infection.
Sinus Disease and Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis affects about 35 million Americans each year, making nasal and sinus care a vital specialty for otolaryngologists. Common issues in the nasal cavity include allergies, smell disorders, polyps, and nasal obstruction, which is very often caused by a deviated septum.
The nasal septum is the wall of bone and cartilage that separates your nasal passages and directs airflow. While very few people have a perfectly straight septum, a severe deviation—whether present at birth, developed during growth, or caused by an injury—can significantly restrict breathing and lead to chronic snoring or sleep apnea.
When breathing problems do not improve without surgery, a procedure called a septoplasty can straighten the septum. Working entirely through the nostrils with the aid of an endoscope, the surgeon carefully lifts the nasal tissue to trim and straighten the bent cartilage and bone. This procedure restores proper airflow and is often performed alongside treatments for chronic sinusitis or polyps to provide comprehensive relief.
Expert Ear, Nose, and Throat Care for a Better Quality of Life
Your health and daily comfort deserve the highest standard of specialized attention. Dr. Nicole Schrader offers expert diagnosis and treatment for a full spectrum of ear, nose, and throat conditions, seamlessly blending advanced medical expertise with personalized care. Contact us at 609-279-0009 to arrange your private consultation in New Jersey.
Throat Disorders/Reflux Disease
As specialists in the upper aero-digestive tract, otolaryngologists expertly manage diseases of the larynx (voice box) and esophagus, including complex voice and swallowing disorders.
While a raw, scratchy sore throat is a very common complaint—often acting as the first sign of a typical cold or flu—it can also be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. It is important to monitor your symptoms closely and contact your doctor if your sore throat develops beyond a routine, run-of-the-mill illness. Call your doctor about a sore throat if:
Fever Higher Than 101°F
If you have a fever higher than 101 degrees without other cold symptoms, you should call your doctor. This may indicate a case of strep throat that needs treatment.
Persistent Flu-Like Symptoms
If you have flu-like symptoms that don’t get better after a few days, it’s time to seek care. This may indicate infectious mononucleosis.
Flu-Like Symptoms in Children or Adolescents
If your child or adolescent suffers flu-like symptoms, they need to be seen by a doctor. Since the outbreak of the H1N1 virus, flu-like symptoms in these populations should be attended to as quickly as possible.
Pain or Hoarseness Lasting Longer Than Two Weeks
Any pain or hoarseness lasting longer than two weeks should be evaluated by a professional. This could be a sign of throat cancer or oral cancer.
Sore Throat Persisting for Over a Week with Allergy Symptoms
If your sore throat persists for more than a week and is accompanied by postnasal drip, sneezing, and itchy eyes, this may be a sign of allergies that require medical attention.
Drooling, Difficulty Swallowing, or Breathing Issues
Seek immediate medical attention. If your sore throat is accompanied by drooling, or you experience difficulty swallowing or breathing, this may indicate an inflamed epiglottis (the structure that overhangs the opening to the larynx) or an abscess in the back of the throat. These are uncommon conditions but require urgent care.
Pain That Moves to the Ear
If your sore throat is accompanied by pain that radiates or moves to the ear, call your doctor. This may be a sign of a more serious problem.
ENT Reviews
Why should I see an Otolaryngologist?
These specialists differ from many physicians in that they are trained in both medicine and surgery. Otolaryngologists do not need to refer patients to other physicians when ear, nose, throat, or head/neck surgery is needed and, therefore, can offer the most appropriate care for each individual patient. Otolaryngologists are the most appropriate physicians to treat disorders of the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck.
Dr. Schrader has 10 years experience, over 6 years in private practice in the Philadelphia area and performed hundreds of otolarynology or ears nose and throat procedures and other cosmetic procedures. For patients seeking ongoing ear, nose, and throat care, our ENT specialists in Philadelphia provide medical and surgical treatment for sinus, hearing, allergy, and sleep-related conditions.
Plastic surgery involves many choices. The first and most important is selecting a surgeon you can trust. Choosing a good facial plastic surgeon ensures that you have selected a physician who:
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ENT Frequently Asked Questions
What type of Anesthesia is used during Facelift Surgery?
An ENT specialist treats conditions related to the ears, nose, and throat, including sinus infections, hearing loss, allergies, throat pain, and breathing issues.
When should I see an ENT doctor?
You should see an ENT doctor if you have ongoing symptoms like chronic sinus problems, frequent ear infections, hearing issues, or persistent sore throat that doesn’t improve with basic treatment.
Can an ENT help with sinus infections?
Yes, an ENT specialist can diagnose and treat sinus infections. They can recommend medications or advanced treatments if the condition becomes chronic or severe.
What are common symptoms of ENT problems?
Common symptoms include ear pain, nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, hearing loss, sore throat, dizziness, and frequent sinus pressure.
Do I need a referral to see an ENT specialist?
In many cases, you don’t need a referral, but it depends on your insurance plan. It’s best to check with your provider before scheduling an appointment.