Dr. Jacek Szudek – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Vernon, BC

Dr. Jacek Szudek, a respected Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (ENT Doctor), is committed to providing compassionate and patient-centered care for individuals with ear, nose, and throat concerns. Practicing at a clinic in Vernon, BC, he serves the local community with a focus on delivering high-quality ENT services. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring safe and effective care for all patients. Dr. Szudek specializes in comprehensive care related to the head and neck, catering to both adult and pediatric patients with a broad spectrum of ENT conditions.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Dalhousie University in 2006 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Szudek holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice. His training equips him with the knowledge to diagnose and treat complex ENT conditions with precision and care.

Driven by a philosophy of patient education and evidence-based care, Dr. Szudek emphasizes collaborative decision-making and personalized treatment plans. He is dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality ENT care in Vernon. He communicates fluently in English and strives to ensure patients are well-informed about their health and treatment options, fostering a trusting and supportive clinical environment.

Dr. Jacek Szudek manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:

Common Ear Conditions

• Eardrum Perforation (Ruptured Eardrum): A hole or tear in the tympanic membrane (eardrum), which can result from infection, injury, or pressure changes.
• Otosclerosis (Abnormal Bone Growth in Middle Ear): A condition where abnormal bone remodeling in the middle ear, typically involving the stapes bone, causes progressive conductive hearing loss.
• 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.
• Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Hearing impairment resulting from exposure to loud sounds, which can be temporary or permanent.

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. Jacek Szudek or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
• 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.
• Flexible & Rigid Nasal Endoscopy / Sinuscopy: Diagnostic procedure using a thin, flexible or rigid camera with light to examine the nasal passages, sinuses, and nasopharynx.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Szudek 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. Szudek'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 British Columbia (CPSBC). A referral may be required.

Dr. Szudek's practice is primarily based at a modern medical facility located in the Central Vernon area, within the Downtown neighborhood. The clinic is situated along a prominent commercial corridor, making it convenient for patients to access. The facility is well-connected via the Vernon Regional Transit System (BC Transit), providing easy public transportation options. The practice is committed to accessibility; the clinic is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at the facility, ensuring ease of access for patients arriving by private vehicle.

Are services from Dr. Szudek, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Szudek are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the clinic if you have questions.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Szudek, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Szudek. 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.

What is the typical recovery time for common ENT surgeries like tonsillectomy or sinus surgery?

Recovery times vary depending on the specific surgery and the individual patient. For a tonsillectomy, expect a sore throat for 1-2 weeks, with gradual improvement. For endoscopic sinus surgery, most people feel significantly better within 1-2 weeks, but some nasal stuffiness or drainage can persist for a bit longer, and full healing can take a few months. Dr. Szudek will provide detailed post-operative instructions and discuss the expected recovery period for your specific procedure.

I've been experiencing dizziness. How will an ENT specialist evaluate this?

Evaluation for dizziness is comprehensive as there are many potential causes. Dr. Szudek will take a detailed history of your symptoms (type of dizziness, duration, triggers), review your medical history and medications, and perform a physical examination, including specific tests for balance and inner ear function (like Dix-Hallpike maneuver for BPPV). Depending on the findings, further tests such as a hearing test (audiogram), videonystagmography (VNG) to assess inner ear and central motor functions, or imaging studies (MRI) might be ordered to determine the cause and guide treatment.

How can Dr. Szudek help with snoring and sleep apnea?

Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are often caused by an obstruction or narrowing of the airway in the nose or throat. Dr. Szudek, an ENT specialist, can perform a thorough examination to identify the areas of obstruction (e.g., deviated septum, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, large tongue base, elongated soft palate). Depending on the findings, treatment options may include lifestyle modifications (weight loss, positional therapy), CPAP therapy (often managed by a sleep physician), oral appliances, or surgical procedures aimed at improving airway patency. Examples include septoplasty, tonsillectomy, UPPP, or Inspire therapy in select cases.

When should I consider seeing an ENT specialist?

You might consider seeing an ENT specialist if you experience persistent issues such as chronic ear infections, hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness or balance problems, chronic sinusitis or nasal congestion, recurrent nosebleeds, allergies affecting the upper airway, voice changes or hoarseness, swallowing difficulties, snoring or suspected sleep apnea, or lumps in the neck or head region. Your family doctor can help determine if a referral to an ENT like Dr. Szudek is appropriate.

202-5100 Anderson Way, Vernon ENT - Head & Neck Surgery
Vernon, BC V1T 9V2

Phone: (778) 475-7730 | Fax: (778) 475-7731

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Szudek is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/335876/Szudek%2CJacek