Josh Werber, MD

We diagnose and treat the many causes of hearing loss, including age-related hearing loss. Other causes of hearing loss include cerumen (wax) impaction, fluid in the ears (more common in children), and structural abnormalities. Serving Long Island, Bayside, and surrounding areas. What Is Tinnitus? Tinnitus is the sensation of noise in the ear. It is usually described as a hissing, buzzing, or chirping sound. What Causes Tinnitus? Tinnitus (ringing in the ear) is often related to hearing loss, but may arise from other causes, including the use of certain medications, loud noise exposure, and tumors. Our audiologist provides a full range of hearing aid dispensing services, offering the most advanced hearing technologies, including the Lyric® Invisible hearing aid. How Is Tinnitus Treated? A thorough examination is performed, including an audiologic evaluation. Treatment may include the adjustment of medications, the use of supplements, and masking techniques.

Disorders of the sinuses are diagnosed and treated after a careful history is taken and examination performed. Our conservative approach to the treatment of sinusitis will initially include medication, and if appropriate, allergy treatment. If conservative measures fail to adequately treat a patient’s chronic condition, a CT scan of the sinuses will be requested to diagnose structural blockages and/or polyps obstructing the sinus outflow tracts. If surgery is indicated, the most minimally invasive technique will be utilized, including balloon sinuplasty, endoscopic sinus surgery, and computer image guided sinus surgery. Sinusitis is a condition that refers to an inflammation of the lining within the paranasal sinuses. What Causes Sinusitis? Sinusitis is usually caused by bacteria, a virus, or allergies. Sinusitis can be classified by location: - maxillary, which causes pain or pressure in the cheek area; - frontal, which causes pain or pressure above and behind the eyes; - ethmoid, which causes pain or pressure between or behind the eyes; and - sphenoid, which causes pain or pressure behind the eyes.

Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, may occur for a wide variety of reasons. Throat infections are the most common cause of dysphagia, and symptoms resolve with appropriate medical treatment. Enlarged tonsils or growths in the throat may interfere with the ability to swallow. Abnormal movement of the vocal cords may be associated with dysphagia, Many neurologic conditions, including stroke and Parkinson’s disease are associated with difficulty swallowing and choking symptoms. Evaluation of swallowing symptoms begins with a thorough history, complete examination of the head and neck, and fiberoptic evaluation of the throat. Treatment is directed at the underlying cause, and may include dietary modification and evaluation by a speech and swallowing therapist.

Obstruction to breathing while sleeping is common, and may be associated with snoring. Snoring may be a sign of a more serious problem called obstructive sleep apnea--when oxygen levels fall during sleep. The most common cause of snoring and sleep apnea in children is enlarged adenoids, tonsils or both. In adults, obstruction leading to snoring and sleep apnea may be caused by a blockage in the nose or throat. Frequently Asked Questions: How Do I Know If I Have Sleep Apnea? Diagnosis of the cause of snoring and sleep apnea relies on a thorough history and complete examination of the upper airway. A sleep study is often necessary to measure breathing patterns during sleep. Our office on Long Island offers a sleep test which can be performed at home, is FDA and Medicare approved, and avoids the inconvenience of spending a night in a sleep lab. Outside Of Snoring, What Are The Most Common Symptoms Of Sleep Apnea? The most common symptoms of sleep apnea are: - Snoring - Gasping for air while sleeping - Daytime lethargy - Morning headaches Are There Different Forms Of Sleep Apnea? There are two forms of sleep apnea. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea, which results from partial or complete airway obstruction while sleeping. The less common form is central sleep apnea, when the brain does not transmit the signal for breathing while sleeping, and is usually associated with neurologic conditions. How Dangerous Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea? The danger of obstructive sleep apnea is correlated with the severity of sleep apnea, and underlying medical conditions. Sleep apnea results in decreased blood oxygenation, thereby forcing the heart to work harder in delivering oxygenated blood to the brain. Untreated obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk for cardiac arrhythmia, heart attack, and stroke. Can My Sleep Apnea Be Eliminated By Surgery? In some cases, obstructive sleep apnea may be improved or eliminated with surgery. What Is The Difference Between Sleep Apnea And Snoring? Snoring is a partial obstruction of the airway while sleeping, with minimal effect on oxygenation. Obstructive sleep apnea is a complete obstruction of the airway while sleeping, resulting in decreased oxygen levels. How Is Sleep Apnea Treated? Treatment of sleep apnea is directed at alleviating or bypassing upper airway obstruction. Solutions range from lifestyle modification such as weight loss and avoidance of alcohol or sedatives, use of a continuous positive airway pressure device (CPAP) to maintain a patent airway, and surgical procedures directed at enlarging the upper airway. Snoring Treatment | Sleep Apnea Treatment Long Island | Great Neck NYSleep apnea and snoring may also be treated non-invasively by using an oral appliance. Oral appliances are devices that are inserted in the mouth to prevent the collapse of the tongue and soft tissues in the back of the throat during sleep, keeping the airway open. Oral appliances are custom-made and fitted to each patient. If an oral appliance is recommended, an appointment will be scheduled for a fitting with our dentist, who specializes in the treatment of sleep apnea. Snoring without significant sleep apnea may improve with lifestyle modification or medical treatment to reduce nighttime nasal congestion. Dr. Werber and Dr. Haunss also offer the Pillar® Procedure, a simple, minimally invasive procedure that is clinically proven to effectively treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.