When it comes to overall health we often think of cardiologists dealing with the heart, dermatologists with the skin and ophthalmologists with the eyes. But what about those three very important systems we use for hearing, breathing and speaking that even influence how we sleep? That is where ENT doctors or otolaryngologists come into play.
An ENT specialist diagnoses and manages a great deal of diseases that attack the ears, nose, throat, head and neck. From chronic sinus infections to hearing loss, allergies, tonsillitis and sleep apnea, these are professionals who ensure some major functionalities of our body run smoothly. In this blog, we will elaborate what the ENT physician does, what kind of conditions they may treat and how early consultation will improve your long-term well-being.
Who is an ENT doctor?
An ENT doctor or Ear, Nose and Throat specialist is called an Otolaryngologist. The word is derived from three Greek roots:
- Oto
- Rhino (nose)
- laryngo- throat
They are trained to manage disorders of the sinuses, the hearing system, the upper respiratory tract and structures of the head and neck. In addition to training in medical school they also have extra years of training to obtain fine skills in these areas of the body relating to both medical and surgical management. These ENTs treat everyone from the infant who has recurring ear infections to the adult with sleep apnea or throat cancer.
Conditions Treated by ENT Doctors
Conditions of the Ear
ENT physicians often treat:
- Ear infections are common in children and the ailment may cause pain, fever, or even temporary hearing problems. The condition is diagnosed by an ENT who prescribes medications or drainage procedures.
- Tinnitus: Ringing in the ears or tinnitus usually accompanies problems of hearing loss and build-up within the ears but can be due to high blood pressure.
- Balance problems (Vertigo): Most feelings of dizziness or spinning come from disorders in the inner ear, including Meniere’s disease.
- The impaction of earwax is painful for the patient. Too much earwax obstructs hearing. The ENT safely takes it out with the help of various methods.
Various investigations, such as audiometry and imaging studies, are usually employed in most ENT clinics in the identification of the exact function of the ears. Early diagnosis of many of these conditions may be very critical in preventing complications related to permanent hearing loss.
Disorders of the Nose and Sinuses
The nose is the first air passage into the body and forms part of the air-conditioning process in the human body via filtration, heating and humidification. Poor functioning may affect sleep, smell and comfort in breathing altogether.
Nasal and sinus disorders treated by an ENT doctor in Patna and beyond include the following:
- Chronic or recurrent infection of the sinus manifests as congestion, facial pain and difficulty in breathing. In this case, most practicing ENTs would recommend an endoscopic evaluation. They may then recommend either medical treatment or surgery after that.
- Deviated septum: It is a deviated nasal septum that can cause chronic obstruction or snoring. Simple corrective surgery, well-known as Septoplasty is performed in this condition by the surgeons of ENT.
- Allergic Rhinitis: Symptoms may manifest as sneezing, nasal drip and congestion; for these, seasonal allergies can be diagnosed. Hence, ENTs will be able to treat the patients by identifying exactly which allergy symptoms a person has and hence provide one particular treatment plan per patient.
- Nasal Polyps:These are benign growths inside the nasal passage impeding airflow. The ENT may remove them surgically.
- Bleeding from the nose-medically termed epistaxis-frequency or serious bleeding from the nose may be indicative of hypertension, dryness of the nose, or for other causes best pursued by a physician.
Advanced facilities within ENT make use of nasal endoscopy, CT scans and allergic testing as very important diagnostic tools in nasal problems to ensure long-lasting relief.
Conditions Related to the Throat
- Tonsillitis and adenoid problems: These include some of the common infections in children, such as tonsillitis and adenoid pathologies. They usually present with pain, snoring and recurrent fevers at times, with pathology which may require a tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy in serious cases.
- Voice and vocal cord disorders: These are certain professions that result in hoarseness, vocal fatigue or loss of voice due to frequent use of the voice as among teachers or singers. Many ENTs work closely with speech therapists for rehabilitation in such cases.
- Chronic Sore throat:These include chronic sore throat, pharyngitis and abscesses that indicate a bacterial infection which requires one to see a doctor.
- Obstructive sleep apnea: A condition wherein breathing is constricted during sleep. Eventually, medical conditions that can relate to this may include fatigue or heart problems.
ENTs locate the obstruction and suggest lifestyle adjustments, CPAP therapy, or a minor surgical correction.
Preventing ENT Problems: Everyday Tips
A few lifestyle habits can go a long way in maintaining good ENT health.
- Avoid exposure to loud noises and use protection for your hearing where appropriate
- Keep your throat and nasal passages moist by staying hydrated
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
- Manage allergies with proper medication
- Observe good nasal hygiene and do not overuse decongestant sprays
- Seek care in time for colds, cough, or sinusitis to avoid complications
Conclusion
Your ear, nose and throat health plays a vital role in the way you experience the world, from the way you hear and speak down to how well you sleep and breathe. Don’t neglect early warning signs. If you experience chronic ENT problems, seek specialized care with the experts at Paras HMRI today because your comfort and health come first. The Department of ENT at Paras HMRI is fully equipped with advanced diagnostic technology, endoscopic suites and a team of highly qualified otolaryngologists offering both medical and surgical treatment for all ear, nose, throat and head-neck disorders.
Book your appointment today with the best multispeciality hospital in India and take a major step towards better health.
