I had been experiencing steady hearing loss, some of which I attributed to a recent cold and sinus issues. A few days ago I purchased one of those over the counter ear wax removal kits, and attempted to remedy the problem myself. By yesterday morning my hearing loss had become so dramatic I literally couldn't hear the water running when I was in the shower. I managed to get through a day of work, (apologizing to everyone I came in contact with for my inability to hear them), but knew I had better see a physician.
This morning I drove over to the Doctor's Urgent Care facility on Aero Drive in Mason. I arrived (and signed-in) at 9:40. The young lady who greeted me was friendly, took my insurance information, and gave me a few pages to fill out regarding my medical history. She had conveniently highlighted the sections I needed to complete, and it only took me about 2 minutes (at most) to finish. As I was signing off on the last page, she said said "We're ready for you, . . . right this way."
The same woman who had done my intake performed a series of preliminary tests, (weight, resting blood pressure, temperature, etc.), and asked a few follow-up questions regarding any other health issues I might be having.
She finished gathering my vitals, set-up what she referred to as an "ear kit" and a few minutes later the physician, Dr. Grubb joined us.
Dr Grubb was great. After examining my ears, he explained what was most likely causing my hearing loss (typical wax buid-up in the ear canal) but did not rule out the possibility of an inner ear infection as a result of my recent cold. He then discussed the two ways he was going to try to remedy the situation. The first involved simply getting in there with a probe and removing the wax, but also pointed out that it might be necessary to use irrigation. He also assured me that he couldn't recall the last time he had to refer someone like myself to an ear, eyes and throat specialist. I liked his determination, for I really wanted to get this fixed TODAY.
As it turns out, he needed to use both techniques before he was finally able to remove the wax that had built up in each ear. Yes, there were a few instances where the procedure was uncomfortable to say the least . . . even painful at times, but I was determined that I was going to stick it out until I could hear again. One of his assistant's performed the bulk of the irrigation procedure . . . I don't recall her name, but she was great as well. Both kept me in the loop as to what was going on, their results (or lack of) and were always asking me how I was feeling, monitoring my comfort etc.
When Dr Grubb finally removed the blockage from my left ear I was estatic. I could immediately hear the difference. The right ear was even more difficult to open up, but Dr. Grubb persisted and managed to clear that ear as well. The entire vist took roughly an hour and ten minutes from the time I signed-in, until the time I was "discharged" with aftercare instructions.
I can't tell you how thrilled I am to be able to hear again, (and how shocked I was when I got back in my car and discovered just how loud I had the radio turned up, lol).
My overall experience with this facility was fantastic. From my reception, to the procedure itself, to the explanation of the aftercare; all top-notch. I won't hesitate to go back the next time I find myself needing to see a physician. Thanks again for giving me back my hearing Doc. read more