After compiling my medical records in preparation for my medical (have yet to schedule with AME...considering visiting an AME that is capable of handing possible tough medical cases such as Dr. Bruce himself), I noticed I had multiple trips to ENT in the past three years for possible allergies (post nasal drip, etc.) due to work performed during the BP Oil Spill. However, after much research, I've begun to think that it is possibly related to my deviated septum.
Back in 2005-06ish, I broke my nose playing football with my 6'6'' uncle (I'm 5'7'' now, but probably shorter then...smart, huh?
). I had the surgery performed in Summer 2006 but it wasn't fixed entirely. The ENT that performed this surgery is different than the one who I've been seeing for the past three years.
Anyhow, per the diagnosis sheets from this new ENT doctor, he had diagnosed me with sinusitis (doesn't say chronic), possible LPR or PAR, and possible GERD. He is the type of doctor that will say you "might" have something and persisted on trying medication such as Prilosec, etc. to rule out items. He always commented on my deviated septum. When I close the "normal" side, and breathe in and out of the smaller nostril, there is both an audible difference and air flow difference compared to if I closed the smaller nostril and breathed with the normal nostril. Never have I felt out of breath or anything.
Below are my concerns in relation to my medical:
1) Should I schedule another appointment to ensure that it isn't chronic sinusitis? Or possibly with my deviated septum? I've noticed no sinus issues while climbing or descending or any pressure changes for that matter. My chief complaint is what feels like post nasal drip ALL the time.
2) Will the FAA or AME note how often I've visited a type of doctor, say the ENT in this case? Since 2009, I've visited this particular ENT doctor 5 times.
3) Dr. Bruce, I plan on having consultation with you per your website. I am in the process of gathering all of my medical records and compiling an excel spreadsheet of what the 8500 form requests (Date, Name, Reason etc.). What all is necessary to include in the "Reason" - why I visited that physician, what was done, outcome (diagnosis, if any)?
My ENT doctor knows I am a pilot and how serious having an medical is. He is willing to write any letters, if needed, stating what is required by the FAA in order for me to obtain a medical. As long as my diagnosis is accurate and is allowed by the FAA, of course.
Back in 2005-06ish, I broke my nose playing football with my 6'6'' uncle (I'm 5'7'' now, but probably shorter then...smart, huh?
Anyhow, per the diagnosis sheets from this new ENT doctor, he had diagnosed me with sinusitis (doesn't say chronic), possible LPR or PAR, and possible GERD. He is the type of doctor that will say you "might" have something and persisted on trying medication such as Prilosec, etc. to rule out items. He always commented on my deviated septum. When I close the "normal" side, and breathe in and out of the smaller nostril, there is both an audible difference and air flow difference compared to if I closed the smaller nostril and breathed with the normal nostril. Never have I felt out of breath or anything.
Below are my concerns in relation to my medical:
1) Should I schedule another appointment to ensure that it isn't chronic sinusitis? Or possibly with my deviated septum? I've noticed no sinus issues while climbing or descending or any pressure changes for that matter. My chief complaint is what feels like post nasal drip ALL the time.
2) Will the FAA or AME note how often I've visited a type of doctor, say the ENT in this case? Since 2009, I've visited this particular ENT doctor 5 times.
3) Dr. Bruce, I plan on having consultation with you per your website. I am in the process of gathering all of my medical records and compiling an excel spreadsheet of what the 8500 form requests (Date, Name, Reason etc.). What all is necessary to include in the "Reason" - why I visited that physician, what was done, outcome (diagnosis, if any)?
My ENT doctor knows I am a pilot and how serious having an medical is. He is willing to write any letters, if needed, stating what is required by the FAA in order for me to obtain a medical. As long as my diagnosis is accurate and is allowed by the FAA, of course.
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