MIDWEST ENT UPDATE 9/29/2020

As we approach fall and winter, we wish to update you on your ear nose and throat health. We recommend that you have your humidifiers inspected and cleaned. If you don't have one, this may be a good time to purchase. When heaters go on, so should humidifiers. In addition, nasal saline sprays and netty pots often times aid in healthy noses and throats. It is becoming increasingly well known how important good nasal breathing is for our overall health. I am sending a link to a recent story aired on CBS News, featuring James Nestor, author of the recent book, "Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art". It is very insightful and I hope you enjoy it.

We continue to take very strict COVID precautions. We have had no cases as a result anyone coming to our office or having surgery with us at Northwestern Hospital.
Flu season is rapidly approaching and strongly encourage the flu vaccine.
We are very pleased with our results of the Inspire(inspiresleep.com)procedure for sleep apnea. This has proven to be an excellent outpatient procedure for those who are not getting good results with CPAP.
As always, we offer a full range of services for your hearing health. We provide the most current technology for testing your hearing and providing the most appropriate hearing aids for each individual.
Please feel free to call the office(312-988-7777) for further information on all of the above or to set up an appointment. You may also send individual emails through our patient portal.

Wishing you all good health and safety,

Gordon J. Siegel, M.D.,FACS
Assistant Clinical Professor
Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery             
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine

Signs of Head and Neck Cancer You Can Watch For

Here’s what you should know about head and neck cancer.

Over the last year, we’ve seen a rise in head and neck cancer in the US, and this rise may be due to increased rates of human papillomavirus (HPV). While men are more likely than women to develop head and neck cancer, rates in women are also increasing. This is why you should seek immediate medical care from our Chicago otolaryngologist Dr. Gordon Siegel if you notice any warning signs or symptoms.

Where can head and neck cancer originate?

There are a variety of different types of head and neck cancer. Since cancer can develop anywhere in the body, it also has the ability to affect,

  • The oral cavity
  • Mouth or throat
  • Nasal cavity
  • Paranasal sinus
  • Nasopharyngeal cancer
  • Laryngeal cancer (voice box)
  • Hypopharyngeal cancer

What are the signs and symptoms of head and neck cancer?

The symptoms you experience will depend on where the head and neck cancer is developing. For example, those dealing with oral or mouth cancer will most likely notice,

  • Pain in the mouth
  • Jaw swelling
  • A lump in the mouth that doesn’t go away
  • Red or white patches in the tongue or gums
  • Lesions or sores in the mouth that don’t go away


For head and neck cancers that affect the throat, you may notice,

  • A Persistent sore throat
  • The sensation of a lump in the throat
  • Chronic hoarseness or changes in your voice
  • Trouble or pain with swallowing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Ear pain


For head and neck cancer that affects the sinuses, you may notice,

  • Frequent nosebleeds (particularly on one side of the nose)
  • Chronic sinus infections that are difficult to treat
  • Swelling around the eyes
  • Frequent headaches
  • Severe nasal congestion or blockages


If you are dealing with these symptoms for more than one week, it’s a good idea to schedule an evaluation with our Chicago otolaryngologist to rule out neck and head cancer.


If you are concerned about your risk for head or neck cancer, our Chicago team is here to help. Call Midwest Ear Nose and Throat practice at (312) 988-7777 to schedule a consultation.

Our Location

3 East Huron Chicago, IL, 60660, US

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

Closed

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

8:00 am-11:30 am

Sunday:

Closed