For Michiganders suffering from the troubling effects of chronic sinusitis, Dr. Richard Strabbing of Michigan ENT & Allergy Specialists can help provide relief and improved quality of life.
Sinusitis is one of the most commonly diagnosed illnesses in the U.S., affecting nearly 12% of adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Symptoms typically include difficulty breathing through the nose, tenderness and swelling around the eyes and nose, ear pain and difficulty sleeping due to congestion.
"I understand that a medical office can be an intimidating place, but I am sure that you won't find that to be the case when you visit us," Dr. Richard Strabbing, an otolaryngologist at Michigan ENT & Allergy Specialists, told Patient Daily. "I personally make a great effort to get to know my patients."
Strabbing believes that Michigan ENT & Allergy stands out from others because of its emphasis on providing individualized treatment plans and compassionate care for every patient. The practice provides otolaryngology care for patients of all ages, including newborns, infants, children, adolescents and adults. Strabbing and his coworkers focus on providing progressive, high-quality treatments for all patients while also maintaining the conservative traditions that are the bedrock of the profession.
One of the featured services at Michigan ENT & Allergy is balloon sinuplasty, a simple, convenient and comfortable procedure, where the physician uses a FDA-cleared technology that is a small, flexible, sinus balloon catheter to open up blocked sinus passageways, restoring normal sinus drainage. When the sinus balloon is inflated, it gently restructures and widens the walls of the passageway while maintaining the integrity of the sinus lining.
Balloon sinuplasty is a proven technology that offers both short-term and long-term relief. It is minimally invasive and restores drainage. It can be performed in the physicians office, and allows the patient a much quicker recovery time with less pain and bleeding.
Strabbing is a pioneer in the procedure.
"I was one of the forerunners for doing balloon sinuplasty in the upper Midwest. I did my first case in March 2007," Strabbing said. "I personally was one of several sites across the U.S. that pioneered this technology in the office. Since that time, I’ve been involved on a national level in refining the anesthesia protocol to make this a pleasant experience for the patient in the office. With my experience in balloon sinuplasty, I’m able to custom tailor a plan for the patient."
Strabbing emphasized that patients suffering from chronic sinusitis should be treated as early as possible. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery, early intervention in sinus patients not only increases their immediate quality of life but also improves long-term relief and reduces health care costs.
"I went into medicine to help people and balloon sinuplasty is one of the best inventions that has occurred since I became a physician in 2000," he said. "I feel fortunate to be able to deliver such a minimally invasive technology to my patients."
Michigan ENT & Allergy also provides treatment for ear, nose and throat disorders; audiology issues; balance and dizziness-related concerns; and allergies. The practice features a team of specialists who, according to Strabbing, strives to make patients feel at home from the time they first arrive.
"We take great joy in seeing you attain a higher level of health," Strabbing told Patient Daily.
Chronic sinusitis can make it hard to enjoy everyday life. If you think a specialist could help, take this quiz.
