The ears, nose and throat are a closely-interconnected system. Unfortunately, this means that when one part is compromised, the others can become compromised as well.
Patients who need otolaryngology services are seen by Dr. Thomas Cahill, whose expertise allows him to provide all aspects of ear, nose and throat care. Dr. Cahill’s office is located in Prima CARE's building at 191 Bedford Street in Fall River.
Dr. Thomas Cahill is certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Dr. Cahill earned an M.D. at University College Dublin and completed an otolaryngology residency at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago. Dr. Cahill has served Newport and southeastern Massachusetts for more than 35 years, sits on the Executive Board of the Massachusetts Society of Otolaryngology and is a former president of the Rhode Island ENT Society. Read Dr. Cahill's full bio.
Otolaryngologists are more commonly known as ear, nose and throat doctors, or ENTs. Because the ear, nose and throat are a connected system, ENTs have the specific expertise to treat a variety of interconnected conditions. Some of the most common we see at Prima CARE include:
Dr. Cahill will thoroughly examine every area of the ears, nose and throat that pertains to your symptoms. If hearing loss is among those symptoms, we may also perform a hearing test. Once we’ve determined an accurate diagnosis, we can then begin developing a treatment plan. Treatments can range from a prescription for antibiotics to surgery.
Yes. Dr. Cahill is qualified to perform ear surgery, nose surgery and throat surgery, as are all ENTs. Common reasons for requiring surgery include:
Audiology is the aspect of healthcare dedicated to identifying, diagnosing, and managing hearing and balance disorders. Some of the most common audiologic conditions we see at Prima CARE include:Â
Our audiologists will examine the ears, collect a thorough hearing history, and perform a comprehensive hearing exam. The hearing exam provides information on the middle ear, inner ear, and auditory nerve. Following the hearing exam, the audiologist will make a recommendation for management of any audiologic conditions identified through testing. This may include hearing aids or other amplification devices. At Prima CARE, Â audiologic care is provided to individuals of all ages.Â
See an ENT if sinus symptoms such as congestion, facial pressure or thick drainage last more than 12 weeks, keep coming back several times a year, or don't improve with treatment from your primary care provider. Our ENT team can find the cause and talk with you about medical and surgical options.
See your provider if hoarseness or voice changes last more than four weeks, or sooner if you smoke, have trouble swallowing or breathing, cough up blood or notice a lump in your neck. An ENT can look at your vocal cords and find the cause.
Tinnitus can be caused by noise exposure, age-related hearing loss, earwax buildup, ear infections and some medicines. An exam and hearing test can help find the cause. Our audiologist, Marissa Gallan, Au.D., holds a certificate in tinnitus management from the American Board of Audiology and can help you manage your symptoms.
