Description
About Dr. Alan Chi-Luen Tang
Specializing in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Alan Chi-Luen Tang (an ENT Doctor) provides expert medical and surgical solutions for patients in Welland. Practicing at a clinic in Welland, ON, he serves the local community with a patient-focused and compassionate approach. Dr. Tang adheres to the high standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring quality care for all his patients.
Providing comprehensive care in general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Tang is dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of ear, nose, throat, and head/neck conditions affecting both adults and children. His focus is on delivering personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that prioritize patient comfort and understanding throughout the care process.
With a strong commitment to patient education and collaborative care, Dr. Tang emphasizes clear communication and tailored treatment strategies. He speaks English fluently and strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel informed and involved in their healthcare decisions.
Common Conditions Dr. Alan Tang Addresses
Dr. Alan Tang manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:
Common Throat, Voice, and Swallowing Conditions
- Acute & Chronic Tonsillitis / Adenoiditis (Recurrent): Inflammation or infection of the tonsils or adenoids, which can be recurrent and cause sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or breathing issues.
- Dysphagia (Swallowing Difficulties): Difficulty or pain when swallowing foods or liquids, which can stem from various problems in the mouth, throat, or esophagus.
Common Ear Conditions
- Otitis Media with Effusion (Fluid in Middle Ear / 'Glue Ear'): Collection of non-infected fluid in the middle ear space behind the eardrum, which can affect hearing.
- Vertigo & Dizziness (e.g., BPPV, Meniere's Disease, Vestibular Neuronitis, Labyrinthitis): Sensations of spinning (vertigo) or unsteadiness (dizziness) often caused by inner ear or balance system disorders.
Common Nose and Sinus Conditions
- Turbinate Hypertrophy (Enlarged Nasal Turbinates): Swelling or enlargement of the nasal turbinates (structures inside the nose that warm and filter air), leading to nasal obstruction.
- Non-Allergic Rhinitis (Vasomotor Rhinitis): Nasal congestion, sneezing, or runny nose not caused by allergies, often triggered by environmental irritants, weather changes, or certain medications.
- Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS) evaluation: A rare, controversial condition where patients experience symptoms of nasal obstruction and dryness despite having surgically widened nasal passages.
- Nasal Polyps: Soft, painless, noncancerous growths on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses, often linked to chronic inflammation from asthma, allergies, or infections.
- Nasal Fractures & Trauma: A break or crack in the bones of the nose, often resulting from an injury, which can affect breathing and appearance.
This list is not exhaustive and provides examples of common conditions. If you have specific concerns regarding your ear, nose, throat, or head/neck health, please consult with Dr. Alan Tang or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Services Offered
- Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy of Head & Neck Masses: Minimally invasive procedure to obtain cell samples from thyroid nodules, lymph nodes, or other head and neck masses for diagnosis, often under ultrasound guidance.
- Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
- Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.
- Allergy Testing (Skin Prick or Blood Tests - Referral or In-house): Identification of specific allergens (pollens, dust mites, molds, foods) contributing to ENT symptoms, guiding targeted treatment strategies.
- Comprehensive ENT Consultation & Examination: Thorough evaluation of ear, nose, throat, head, and neck conditions, including detailed history taking, physical examination, and formulation of a treatment plan.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Tang offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Specific services may vary based on individual patient needs and Dr. Tang's areas of focus.
All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). A referral may be required.
Practice Location & Accessibility
Dr. Tang's practice is primarily based at a well-equipped clinic in the North Welland, Niagara College Area neighborhood of Welland, Ontario. The clinic is conveniently located near the Welland Recreational Canal, making it easily accessible for local residents. Patients can reach the clinic via various Niagara Region Transit (NRT) and Welland Transit routes, ensuring convenient access for both adults and children. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and parking is available at the location, providing a comfortable environment for all patients seeking expert ENT care.
Frequently Asked Questions about Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
- Are services from Dr. Tang, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Tang are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) or the clinic if you have questions.
- Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Tang, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?
- Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Tang. This ensures coordinated care. Some clinics may offer non-insured consultations without a referral, but this is not standard for provincially covered services. Please check with the clinic or your referring doctor.
- How are allergies related to ENT problems?
- Allergies can significantly impact the ears, nose, and throat. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) can cause nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, post-nasal drip, and itchy, watery eyes. Allergies can also contribute to chronic sinusitis, eustachian tube dysfunction (leading to ear pressure, popping, or fluid), recurrent ear infections, and exacerbate conditions like asthma or voice changes. An ENT specialist may investigate and help manage the ENT-related symptoms of allergies, often by recommending nasal sprays, antihistamines, or discussing options like immunotherapy, sometimes working in conjunction with an allergist.
- What kind of post-operative care instructions can I expect after an ENT surgery?
- Post-operative care instructions will be specific to the type of surgery performed. Generally, they may include information on pain management, diet restrictions (e.g., soft foods after tonsillectomy), activity limitations, wound care (if applicable), use of medications (like antibiotics or pain relievers), nasal saline rinses (after sinus surgery), and signs of potential complications to watch for. You will also be given follow-up appointment details. It's crucial to follow these instructions carefully for optimal healing.
- I have a thyroid nodule. What does an ENT specialist do?
- If you have a thyroid nodule, an ENT specialist (Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon) like Dr. Tang will typically evaluate it through a physical exam, review any prior imaging (like ultrasound), and may order blood tests for thyroid function. A key diagnostic step is often a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy, where a small sample of cells is taken from the nodule under ultrasound guidance to determine if it's benign or cancerous. Based on these findings, Dr. Tang will discuss whether monitoring, further testing, or surgical removal (thyroidectomy) is indicated. The procedure often involves ultrasound-guided FNA, and if necessary, surgical options are discussed to address any malignant or suspicious nodules.
Contact & Licensing Information
165 Plymouth Road
Welland, ON L3B 3E1
Phone: (905) 788-1711 | Fax: (905) 788-2332
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Tang is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to schedule an appointment for provincially insured services.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Tang-Alan-ChiLuen/0046923-60901