One of the most critical members of your family’s health care team is an ear, nose, and throat physician, commonly known as an ENT. If your kid suffers from recurrent ear infections, you will most probably seek treatment from a Surprise ear, nose & throat doctor. Likewise, if you are a senior, you might have had a hearing problem that necessitates the attention of an ENT. So, what exactly does an ENT do and how can they assist you or your dear ones with certain health concerns? Read on to find out more.
What Exactly Is An ENT?
Otolaryngology is the specialty of medicine that an ENT works in. Otolaryngologists are doctors that specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of problems of the neck and head. An ENT specialist examines your ears, nose, throat, larynx, sinuses, and other connected regions of your body.
Otolaryngologists are physicians who have completed a comprehensive specialist training program after receiving their medical degrees. These doctors are board-certified in otolaryngology and are required to keep their licensure current by taking additional medical classes and regularly attending seminars.
Otolaryngologists deal in a range of specialty areas, including:
- Allergies
- Facial reconstructive and plastic surgeries
- Pediatric otolaryngology
- Laryngology, focusing on the throat, swallowing, and voice problems
- Rhinology, focusing on sinus cavity and nose problems
- Audiology, neurotology, and otology, concentrating on gait, tinnitus, and the ears
What Does An ENT Doctor Treat?
ENT specialists could address the following conditions and conduct the following procedures on patients of all ages:
- Adenoid removal
- Hearing aids with cochlear implants
- Repairing a deviated septum
- Fitting of hearing aids
- Repairing eardrum perforations
- Ear tube inserts
- Sleep disturbances (sleep apnea)
- Reconstructive surgery
- Maxillofacial and plastic surgery
- Tonsillectomies
- Speech impediments
- Tumor removal from the neck and head
- Anomalies that occur at birth (like a loss of smell or a cleft lip or palate)
When Should You Consult An ENT?
Whereas your general practitioner could diagnose a minor issue, an ENT doctor is the only person who could perform particular tests to diagnose a neck or head issue. If your general physician cannot handle your issue, they will refer you to the ENT. It is time to visit your ENT if you or your loved one develops any of the following symptoms:
- Breathing problems
- Dizziness or balancing difficulties
- Chronic painful throats and hoarseness
- Hearing problems
- The ear hurts
- Ear infections
- Ringing in the ears (Tinnitus)
- Nosebleeds
- Allergies and chronic sinusitis
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Having trouble swallowing
- Sleeping difficulties
- Having swimmer’s ear
What To Expect During Your ENT Visit?
Once you set foot at Oasis Ear, Nose, and Throat for your initial appointment, your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and perform a comprehensive examination. Some of the tests your provider may suggest include:
- Sleep study
- Voicebox examination
- Nasal endoscopy- employs a tiny telescope to look into your nose for anomalies
- Audiometric testing for patients with balance problems or hearing loss
- Nasal exam to examine tissues within your nose, especially your septum
- Pressure testing for fluid in your eardrum, which could lead to hearing loss
- Neck exam to assess your salivary glands, thyroid gland, and lymph nodes
Essentially, if you have an issue with your ear, nose, or throat, you should seek care from an ENT as soon as possible to avoid minor complications from developing into a significant health concern. At Oasis Ear, Nose, and Throat, the specialists strive to provide top-level care by employing cutting-edge techniques and medical technologies. Schedule an initial consultation today to discuss your concerns by calling the Surprise, AZ office or using the online booking tool.
