FIRST-HAND ACCOUNTS

For years I have been plagued with the inability to breathe through my nose when I slept. This was thought to be due to bad allergies, so I began taking allergy medications. I was later diagnosed with sleep apnea and started using a CPAP machine but was unable to tolerate it after several hours of use. I finally sought the help of an ENT specialist. My Dr. recommended Dr. Reader who found the problem on my first visit. He told me one of my nasal passages was obstructed and recommended outpatient surgery. After surgery, I had very little discomfort and no black eyes or excessive swelling. It has been seven weeks since my surgery and I CAN BREATHE. I  still have to use my CPAP machine but now I can sleep through the night. It has changed my life.  

Thank you, Dr. Reader, you're a lifesaver.

I have been fighting an ear infection and loss of hearing for a number of years. My primary care doctor referred me to Dr. Reader in 2012. Dr. Reader performed a cochlear implant on my left ear and it opened a new world for me. Later Dr. Reader did surgery on my right ear that many doctors had tried treating over several years without success. Dr. Reader did surgery and the infection has not returned. I think that Dr. Reader should be named "doctor of the year." 

Dr. Reader,  

I'm pleased to tell you my life has improved tremendously since you performed the Balloon Dilation in your office on August 3rd, 2017. The procedure was short and painless.

Prior to that, I had a sinus infection that lasted six months and survived 4 rounds of antibiotics. I didn't realize how miserable I had been until I recovered. 

I highly recommend the Balloon Dilation for any of your patients who have a lingering sinus infection. For me, it was a miracle cure!  

Thank you for providing this cutting-edge surgery in Porterville.

To Whom It May Concern:  

This past summer I was pleased to become acquainted with Mark Reader, D.O., FAOCO., and his Visalia office staff. 

My primary care doctor referred me to an allergy specialist, who referred me to Dr. Reader. I had been suffering from a continuing sinus headache for nearly nine days. I was given four rounds of antibiotics which gave me no relief, whatsoever. The amount of antibiotics administered,  not surprisingly, resulted in the usual side effects of such a large dose. The intended cure simply added to my overall discomfort. 

Dr. Reader recommended Sinus Balloon Dilation, an office procedure to open my left sinus cavity. Another option was to repair my deviated septum and do the dilation in a hospital procedure. Dr. Reader provided excellent information and options and I chose the office procedure. 

My insurance would not pay for the procedure because I did not, at that time, have a sinus infection. I would think not, after four rounds of antibiotics. I agreed to pay for the procedure. I am so glad I did. 

After the Sinus Balloon Dilation procedure, my comment was, "Wow, a piece of cake!" There was absolutely no discomfort, before, during, or following the procedure. I was particularly pleased that any feeling of being light-headed quickly dissipated. My headaches are gone, no more sinus infections, and I can breathe out of both nostrils again. I would do it again, and yes, it was worth the out-of-pocket expense. I would recommend this procedure to anyone to whom it has been recommended. 

L. W.

Exeter, CA