ENT specialists diagnose and treat conditions affecting ears, nose, and throats. Asthma, sleep apnea, and snoring are some of the issues that these specialists treat. Here is what you should see an otolaryngologist for:
Sinus Infections
Sinus infections or sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinuses, the air-filled cavities behind the cheeks, eyes, and forehead. The condition happens when these sinuses get filled with fluid and become blocked. Colds, allergies, nasal polyps, and bacterial infections are some factors that trigger sinus infections. Symptoms include a blocked or runny nose, headache, facial pain, and thick nasal discharge. You may also experience bad breath, sore throat, reduced sense of smell, cough, and fatigue. Although many cases of acute sinus infection resolve independently, failing to treat it can result in severe complications such as meningitis and chronic congestion. Your ENT specialists may recommend treatment options, including nasal irrigation, saline nasal sprays, and nasal decongestants. If you have chronic sinusitis, they may perform surgery to drain the sinuses and remove blockage.
Ear Infections
If you have frequent or chronic ear infections that do not respond to over-the-counter medications, seeing ENT specialists can help. These professionals have the necessary resources to diagnose and treat most ear issues. Ear infections occur when the bacteria or virus causes inflammation in one or more parts of the ear. Allergies, colds, or sinus infections can lead to fluid buildup in your ear, creating a conducive environment for germs to thrive. After an infection, you may experience hearing loss, fever, ear pain, and fluid drainage from your ear. Experienced otolaryngologists examine your ear with an otoscope to identify swelling, fluid, or redness. Inserted ear tubes can help to prevent complications such as hearing loss or chronic middle ear infections.
Nasal Congestion
This condition occurs when your nasal passages swell and inflame due to excess blood flow or mucus production. Various factors such as allergies, common colds, and irritants like pollution and smoke cause nasal congestion. Structural abnormalities such as nasal polyps and deviated septum also contribute to congestion. Individuals with nasal congestion may find it breathing hard through their nose because their nasal passage is narrowed due to mucus buildup, swelling, and inflammation. Other common symptoms include runny nose, face pressure, sleep disturbances, swelling or redness around the nose, and stuffy nose. Your specialist may prescribe nasal steroids to reduce inflammation, saline spray for moisturizing your nasal passages, and decongestants. They may suggest balloon sinuplasty for severe cases to clear out sinuses and restore normal airflow.
Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis or hay fever occurs when your immune system overreacts to certain allergens, such as pet dander, mold, or dust mites. Your immune system mistakenly identifies these allergens as harmful, triggering the release of histamine and other chemicals. Itchy eyes, throat irritation, runny nose, and sneezing are well-known symptoms. Your otolaryngologist should perform a physical exam to identify swelling, irritation, and inflammation. Treating allergic rhinitis involves combining lifestyle modification and medications to prevent or minimize the severity of flare-ups.
Learn More About ENT Specialists
Whether you suffer from nasal congestion or sinus infection, your otolaryngologist can assess your symptoms, identify the underlying cause, and develop a personalized treatment plan. Trained physicians offer both non-invasive and surgical solutions for ear, nose, and throat concerns. Contact experienced ENT doctors to learn more about their services.
