- SinusitisThere are estimated to be about 35 million people who develop chronic sinusitis (many weeks of inflammation or infection of the sinus cavities) each year, which makes it one of the most common health complaints in America, often responsible for months of unnecessary antibiotic use by the patient. Care of the nasal cavity and sinuses is one of the primary skills of otolaryngologists. While allergists are experts in treating the various manifestations of allergy (respiratory, skin, GI), no specialty has the advanced anatomic and medical knowledge of the nasal and sinus passages that an otolaryngologist has for treating these types of conditions. Most patients with serious chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps, for example, require a combination of surgical and medical therapy to fully resolve their condition.
- Snoring
- Primary CareTo maintain continuity of care for patients, we routinely forward complete health reports to each patient’s primary care and/or referring physician.
- Ear InfectionsApproximately 12% of the U.S. population or 38 million Americans have a significant hearing loss, making it the most common disability in the United States. Otolaryngologists are uniquely trained in the medical and surgical treatment of hearing, ear infections, balance disorders, ear noise (tinnitus), nerve pain, and facial and cranial nerve disorders. Otolaryngologists also manage congenital (birth) disorders of the outer and inner ear.
- Sleep DisordersOtolaryngologists diagnose and manage diseases of the sinuses, voice box, mouth, and upper throat, as well as structures of the neck and face, including conditions of the ear and hearing loss, cancers of the head and neck, and sleep disorders. Otolaryngologists treat patients of all ages, from children to the elderly.
- Family PracticeCornerStone Ear, Nose & Throat is a professional medical and audiology practice located in Charlotte and Monroe. Our doctors treat patients of all ages for the full range of otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat) and respiratory allergy disorders. Our office on Reynolds Street in Monroe is conveniently located in the heart of the Monroe Medical Community, across the street from Union Family Practice. This location is close to both Atrium Health Union in Monroe and Interstate 74.
- Emergency CareThis information is provided by CornerStone Ear, Nose & Throat for informational and educational purposes only. USERS OF OUR SITE SHOULD NEVER DELAY SEEKING MEDICAL ADVICE BASED ON SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ ON OUR WEBSITE. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department, or call 911 immediately. Information provided on this site should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for a consultation with an ENT or any other physician.
- Infectious DiseasesOtolaryngologists often treat disorders that are not tied directly to the ear, nose, and throat but rather to the structures of the head and neck. Some examples include the nerves that control the face, hearing, and smell. Otolaryngologists are trained to treat infectious diseases and other conditions of the head and neck area. These may include tumors, facial trauma, fractures, and deformities of the face. Otolaryngologists also treat and surgically remove cancers that occur in the head and neck. Finally, the need for reconstructive surgery on the head or neck due to birth defects, trauma, or simply for cosmetic purposes are reasons to seek the treatment and care of an otolaryngologist.
- Mental HealthThis Notice of Privacy Practices describes how we may use and disclose your protected health information to carry out treatment, payment or health care operations and for other purposes that are permitted or required by law. It also describes your rights to access and control your protected health information. “Protected health information” (PHI) is information about you, including demographic information, that may identify you and that relates to your past, present or future physical or mental health or condition and related health care services. Our practice is dedicated to maintaining the privacy of your protected health information.
- HypothyroidismThis process often begins with the discovery of a nodule during a physical exam or as an incidental (unexpected) finding on imaging of the head and neck such as a neck CT scan or MRI. Thyroid nodules are rarely large enough to cause pain, discomfort, or visible swelling in the neck. Once a nodule is found, thyroid function blood tests and imaging are usually recommended to better understand any potential risks to your health. The results of the thyroid function blood tests will help the physician decide which type of imaging study is needed. A nuclear scan of the thyroid is usually recommended for patients with elevated thyroid function levels (hyperthyroidism). An ultrasound examination is usually recommended for patients with normal or low thyroid function levels (hypothyroidism).
- Thyroid
- Thyroid CancerThe biopsy results will help inform your surgeon of your risk for thyroid cancer. For the lower-risk categories, a simple follow-up thyroid scan may be all that is necessary. In other cases, a repeat biopsy may be recommended. For higher-risk categories, your surgeon will usually recommend thyroid surgery.
- UltrasoundThyroid nodules are notoriously difficult to feel and accurately assess on a physical examination alone. In many cases, an enlarged thyroid is caused not just by a single nodule, but rather by several smaller nodules spread throughout the thyroid gland. An ultrasound exam can reveal the size, number, location, and appearance of thyroid nodules in detail, using ultra-high-frequency sound waves that are harmless to the human body. The exam is completely painless and typically only takes about 30 minutes. Sedation is not required because there is no discomfort. After the exam, a radiologist and your surgeon will review the images.
- MRI
- Computed TomographyIf you have symptoms of seasonal allergies more than once a year or symptoms are severe enough to affect your ability to enjoy work or your daily activities, you should see a doctor for evaluation. The otolaryngologists of CornerStone Ear, Nose & Throat help patients every day who suffer from ongoing allergy, nasal, and sinus symptoms. Our specialists can diagnose the problem or determine if additional testing, like an on-site allergy test or CT scan, is necessary.
- OtolaryngologySince 1994, when our practice was founded by ENT physician, Dr. William McClelland, CornerStone Ear, Nose & Throat has helped patients enjoy every breath, sleep better every night, hear every word, and live every moment. Our Otolaryngology and Audiology doctors and support team specialize in the medical and surgical treatment of ear, nose, and throat disorders, as well as disorders related to the face and neck.
- Mohs SurgeryDr. Gerry completed his otolaryngology residency at the Medical College of Georgia, and then went on to complete fellowship training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery with Dr. Achih Chen at The Georgia Center for Facial Plastic Surgery. There he specialized in facial cosmetic surgery as well as facial reconstruction for patients who have undergone Mohs surgery to remove skin cancers. He has performed more than 2,000 Mohs reconstructions of the face and neck.
- Reconstructive SurgeryDr. Gerry is a Board Certified Otolaryngologist (ENT). He offers care to adults and children for general ear, nose, and throat disorders. His special interests include facial reconstructive surgery, as well as treatment of voice and swallowing disorders, thyroid and parathyroid disorders, and sleep apnea.
- Plastic Surgery
- Cosmetic Surgery
- Cyst
- Neck Pain
- AllergiesIt’s possible your symptoms are the result of a sinus infection or another sinus issue. Once those possibilities are ruled out, allergy testing can identify the specific allergens responsible for your symptoms. Once these allergens are identified, you can decide on the best approach for treating your allergies.