Frequently Asked Questions - Premier ENT Medical Redlands

FAQs

Get answers to common questions about ENT care in Redlands, California. Dr. Johnny Arruda and our team have compiled these frequently asked questions to help you understand our services, treatments, and what to expect during your visit. If you don't find your answer here, please call us at (909) 793-2500.

What conditions does Premier ENT Med treat?

We diagnose and treat a wide range of ear, nose, and throat conditions including chronic sinusitis, hearing loss, tinnitus, sleep apnea, voice disorders, throat infections, nasal polyps, deviated septum, and allergies. We also perform head and neck procedures including parotid and thyroid surgery.

Do you treat both children and adults?

Yes, Dr. Arruda is experienced in treating patients of all ages, from pediatric ENT conditions to adult and senior care. We provide age-appropriate treatment approaches for each patient.

What should I expect during my first visit?

Your initial consultation will include a thorough medical history review, physical examination of your ears, nose, and throat, and detailed discussion of your symptoms. Depending on your condition, we may perform diagnostic testing such as hearing evaluations, nasal endoscopy, laryngeal endoscopy of the upper airway, and imaging studies to ensure accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment planning.

Do you accept insurance?

We accept most major insurance plans.

Please call our office to verify that we accept your specific insurance plan and to understand your coverage benefits.

Treatment Questions

When is surgery necessary for sinus problems?

We always try conservative treatments first, such as medications and lifestyle changes. Surgery is considered when non-surgical treatments haven't provided adequate relief and your quality of life is significantly affected.

How long is recovery from ENT procedures?

Recovery time varies depending on the specific procedure. Minor office procedures may require minimal downtime, while surgical procedures like septoplasty or sinus surgery typically require 1-2 weeks for initial recovery. We'll provide detailed post-operative instructions for your specific procedure.

Do you offer otology services?

Yes, we provide comprehensive hearing evaluations and can prescribe and fit hearing aids when appropriate. We work with patients to find the best hearing solution for their lifestyle and needs.

What is sleep apnea and how do you treat it?

Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. We offer various treatment options including CPAP alternatives, oral appliances, and surgical procedures depending on the severity and type of sleep apnea.

Specific Medical Condition Questions

What is otosclerosis and how is it treated?

Otosclerosis occurs when abnormal bone growth affects the tiny bones in your inner ear, causing conductive hearing loss. While there's no cure, surgery can restore hearing function and we offer hearing aids when necessary.

What is a cholesteatoma and is it dangerous?

A cholesteatoma is a benign growth behind the eardrum caused by buildup of skin cells. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications including permanent hearing loss, facial paralysis, or infection spreading to the brain. Early treatment is crucial.

How do you diagnose vertigo and balance disorders?

Balance disorders can be complex to diagnose. We conduct comprehensive evaluations including physical examination, hearing tests, and specialized balance testing to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Can tinnitus be cured?

While there's no traditional cure for tinnitus, we offer comprehensive evaluation and management strategies that can help reduce the bothersome sounds and significantly improve your quality of life. Our treatment plans are individualized based on your specific type and severity of tinnitus.

What causes voice problems and how are they treated?

Voice problems can result from infections, acid reflux, vocal cord trauma, polyps, or misuse. Treatment may include medication, surgery, or voice therapy with a speech pathologist, depending on the underlying cause.

What causes a hole in the eardrum (perforated eardrum)?

A perforated eardrum is a tear in the membrane separating your outer and middle ear, often caused by infection or injury. Most perforations can be surgically repaired using a graft to restore hearing and protect against infection.

Appointment & Insurance Questions

How quickly can I get an appointment?

We strive to accommodate urgent concerns as quickly as possible. Please call us to discuss your specific needs.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Please bring a valid photo ID, insurance cards, a list of current medications, and any previous ENT records or test results. Arrive 20 minutes early for paperwork if you're a new patient.

Do you offer same-day appointments for urgent issues?

Please call our office to discuss your symptoms and we'll determine the best approach for your care.

Questions About Our Redlands Location

Do you serve patients outside of Redlands?

Yes, we proudly serve patients throughout San Bernardino County including Highland, Yucaipa, San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Mentone, and surrounding Inland Empire communities. Due to Dr. Arruda's reputation for excellence, we also serve patients from Arizona and neighboring areas, including some who have relocated yet continue to travel to our Redlands practice for their specialized ENT care.

What makes Premier ENT different from other practices?

Dr. Arruda has been serving the Redlands community for nearly 30 years and understands the unique health challenges of living in the Inland Empire. We focus on conservative treatments first and provide personalized compassionate care.

Still have a questions?

Don't see your question here? Our team at Premier ENT is here to help. Dr. Johnny Arruda and our experienced staff are ready to answer any questions about your ENT health.