To learn more about the benefits of otolaryngology, contact our practice serving Philadelphia, Pottstown, and surrounding areas.
826 Main Street
Suite 201
Phoenixville, Pennsylvania 19460
Tel: 610-415-1100
Fax: 610-415-1101
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1201 County Line Road
Suite 101
Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania 19010
Tel: 610-520-0900
Fax: 610-520-0920
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525 Jamestown St
Suite 205
Philadelphia, PA 19128
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5 South Sunnybrook Road
Suite 300
Pottstown, Pennsylvania 19464
Tel: 610-326-3600
Fax: 610-326-4466
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255 Gordon Drive
Suite 101
Lionville, PA 19341
Tel: 610-524-5300
Fax: 610-524-0100
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525 Jamestown St
Suite 205
Philadelphia, PA 19128
Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Treatments — Philadelphia and Pottstown
Otolaryngologists are physicians highly trained in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the head and neck — including conditions affecting the ear, nose, and throat. At Broker, Cramer & Swanson, Ear, Nose & Throat, our otolaryngology specialists offer patients from Philadelphia and Pottstown the benefit of their expertise in head and neck disorders from sleep apnea to skin cancer and more.
Tonsils and Tonsillitis
Found at the back of the throat, tonsils are lumps of tissue that serve to fight harmful bacteria and viruses to prevent sickness and infection. Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils. Most often occurring in children, tonsillitis can be a common cause of obstructive sleep apnea for them. Symptoms of tonsillitis may include the following:
- Tonsils that are bright red in color, enlarged, or covered with pus
- A sore throat
- Pain when swallowing
- Foul breath
- Neck stiffness or tenderness
- A stiff jaw
- Fever
Usually, a doctor will prescribe antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection. If tonsillitis becomes a recurrent problem or interferes with proper breathing, however, it may become necessary to visit a specialist in otolaryngology. An otolaryngologist may recommend a tonsillectomy, an operation in which the tonsils are removed.
Head and Neck Gland Problems
Found throughout the body, glands secrete substances necessary for the body to perform certain tasks. Glands found in the head and neck includes salivary glands and the thyroid gland. Each of these glands serves an important role; if one becomes compromised, treatment must be sought immediately. The otolaryngology experts at our Philadelphia practice, near Pottstown, specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of salivary gland problems and thyroid gland abnormalities.
Salivary Glands
Found in the mouth and throat, the salivary glands secrete saliva, which is necessary to aid the digestive process and to protect the teeth from decay. An obstruction in the flow of saliva can cause swelling and pain in the blocked gland. Often this obstruction is caused by “stones” — accumulations of calcium and other minerals. If left untreated, the blocked glands may become abscessed.
Dehydration can often be to blame for salivary gland problems; the risk of salivary gland disease is one of the many reasons to stay hydrated at all times. Infection can also cause swelling of the salivary gland and can usually be treated with antibiotics. Tumors, both benign and malignant, can also be the cause of salivary gland disease. Since there are many factors that can contribute to this condition, it is important to have the symptoms examined by a specialist in otolaryngology.
Thyroid Gland
A bowtie-shaped gland located below the larynx (voice box), the thyroid gland is vital to the proper functioning of the human body. It makes hormones that regulate the body's functions. An abnormal thyroid gland is not an unusual problem.
The thyroid gland can become enlarged due to abnormally high or low activity or inflammation. Sometimes people may develop thyroid nodules — lumps or masses in the thyroid that may be malignant. It is important that an enlarged thyroid gland be examined immediately to determine the cause.
Treatment for an abnormal thyroid gland may involve surgery, medication, or both. Benign thyroid nodules are often suppressed with the administration of thyroid hormone. If the mass does not respond to hormone therapy, surgery may become necessary. Our otolaryngology experts perform thyroid surgery for residents of Philadelphia, Pottstown, and other Pennsylvania communities.
Facial Sports Injuries
It is important always to wear proper protective gear while engaging in sports activities and to ensure that the environment in which one is playing is safe. Even when necessary precautions are observed, however, accidents can happen. Facial sports injuries may include the following:
- Facial Fractures. Fractures of the bones of the face can cause swelling, bruising, pain or numbness, vision problems, and nosebleeds. If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. X-rays may be necessary to determine whether any of the delicate bones of the face have been fractured.
- Bruises. Bruising and swelling can be alleviated by elevating the affected area above the heart and applying an ice pack. When bruising is accompanied by pain, numbness, vision problems, or nosebleeds, however, it is important to see a doctor.
- Cuts and Scrapes. Minor cuts and scrapes can be cleaned with soap and water and treated with an antibiotic ointment. Deeper cuts or wounds that involve persistent bleeding should be examined by a physician.
- Neck & Throat Injuries. Neck and throat injuries can affect the larynx, esophagus, or major blood vessels and should be examined immediately by a specialist in otolaryngology, especially when accompanied by hoarseness or difficulty breathing.
We Provide Exceptional Otolaryngology Services and More
Our ear, nose, and throat doctors use advanced technology to provide patients with high-quality otolaryngology care at our Philadelphia and Pottstown practice. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.