All you need to know about ENT

What exactly is ENT?

ENT is a medical specialty that deals with ear, nose, and throat problems, including diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Furthermore, they are trained to treat ENT-related conditions of the head and neck.

What are the abbreviations for ENT doctors?

Otologists/ENT Physicians are another name for ENT doctors. The majority of these specialists have specialized in one or more of the following sub-specialties:

1. Pediatric Otolaryngology (ENT problems in children)
2. Otology/Neurotology/audiology (Ears, balance, and tinnitus)
3. Allergy
4. Facial plastic and reconstructive surgery
5. Head and neck surgery (Tumors of the head and neck)
6. Laryngology (Throat, voice, and swallowing)
7. Rhinology (Nose and sinus cavity)

If these doctors go on to receive additional training in the medical and surgical management of common problems such as dizziness, ear tumours, or hearing loss, they are known as otolaryngologists/ENT Surgeons.

When Should You See An ENT?

You should schedule an appointment with an ENT as soon as you notice any of the following signs or symptoms related to the ear, nose, or throat:

Ear:

An ear disorder or condition that includes:

• Impairment of hearing
• Infections of the ears
• Disorders that affect balance
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• An earache
• Congenital ear disorders (diseases/disorders that are present at birth)

Nose:

• Changes in the smelling, breathing, or physical appearance of the nose.
• Sinuses
• Nasal cavity blockage.

Throat:

Disorders or conditions affecting:

• Singing
• Eating
• Swallowing
• Digestion

Overall, the following signs and symptoms should prompt you to schedule an appointment with an ENT specialist right away and have yourself thoroughly examined:

1. Injury to your ears, nose, or throat
2. Nerve problems in your ears, nose, or throat
3. Balance problems
4. Dizziness
5. Hearing impairment
6. Ear infection
7. Tonsil or adenoid infection
8. Swimmer’s ear
9. Pain in your ears, nose, or throat
10. Tinnitus
11. Ear, nose, or throat birth defects
12. Breathing problems
13. Down’s syndrome
14. Asthma
15. Allergy
16. Sinus problem
17. Growth or tumour in your ears, nose, or throat
18. Deviated septum
19. The undesired appearance of the nose or face
20. Cleft palate
21. Drooping of the eyelids
22. Hair loss
23. Nose bleeds
24. Nasal congestion
25. Problems with smell
26. Voice or swallowing problems
27. Sore throat
28. Hoarseness
29. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

What are the ENT’s specialties?

ENT specialists also treat the following medical conditions and disorders:

1. Adenoiditis
2. Airway Stenosis
3. Allergic Rhinitis
4. Chronic Ear Disease
5. Chronic Tonsillitis
6. Cleft Palate/Cleft Lip
7. Complex Airway Diseases (choanal atresia, airway tumours, masses)
8. Ear Infections (otitis media) or Ear Tubes
9. Facial Paralysis
10. Feeding and Swallowing Disorders
11. Food Allergies
12. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
13. Head and Neck Masses
14. Hearing Loss & Impairment
15. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)
16. Laryngomalacia
17. Lymphatic Malformations
18. Nasal Deformities
19. Nasal Obstruction
20. Salivary Disease
21. Sinus Disease
22. Sleep Apnea
23. Speech Disorders
24. Stridor
25. Thyroid Conditions
26. Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia)
27. Tracheomalacia
28. Vascular Malformations