Approximately 27 million people in the U.S. visit ENT specialists each year. An ENT specialist—also called an otolaryngologist—is a medical professional who specializes in and treats conditions affecting the ears, nose and throat (that’s what ENT stands for!). Conditions in the ears, nose and throat, like a stuffy nose, hoarse voice, ear infection or sinus infection, are all quite common, and because these conditions are common, it may be hard to gauge whether you need a specialist’s help.
Conditions an ENT Can Treat
Here are some ear, nose and throat conditions commonly treated by ENT specialists.
Ears
- Ear infections (including outer, middle and inner ear infections)
- Ruptured eardrum
- Otosclerosis (bone growth in the middle ear)
- Sudden hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
- Balance disorders
Nose
- Sinusitis (sinus infections)
- Sudden loss of smell
- Postnasal drip
- Nasal fractures and a broken nose
- Deviated septum
- Nasal polyps (noncancerous growths in the tissues lining the nose)
Throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Laryngitis (lost voice)
- Tonsillitis
- Thyroid Conditions
- Snoring and sleep apnea
- Masses in the neck and throat
When Should I Seek Help?
Some of the items listed above resolve on their own or with minimal at-home treatment, without the need for medical intervention. Ask yourself the following:
Is The Issue Chronic?
This is the first question you should ask yourself when considering whether to visit an ENT. You don’t need to see a specialist for a brand-new ear infection; however, if the ear infection has lasted two weeks or if it keeps coming back, then it’s time to consult a specialist.
Did The Issue Happen Suddenly?
Conversely, if the issue comes on very suddenly, it could indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires immediate attention. This is true in cases such as sudden hearing loss.
What Is the Cause of the Condition?
If you know the cause, it can help you decide whether to treat the issue at home or seek a medical professional’s help. Viral illnesses, such as COVID-19 or the flu, can cause sinusitis, which typically resolves when the illness does. In this scenario, when you can make an educated guess on when the condition will resolve itself, you don’t need to visit an ENT.
Will The Condition Require Surgery or a Procedure?
ENT is a surgical specialty. Surgeries can be performed by an ENT to correct structural issues, remove growths or reconstruct structures in the ears, nose and throat. If you know or suspect that your condition will require a procedure, such as tonsillectomy, Balloon Sinuplasty or septoplasty, to name a few, then you should call an ENT.
If you’re still unsure whether your ENT conditions need specialized care, you can always give us a call to discuss your symptoms. And if you know you’ll need our expertise, call South Valley Ear Nose & Throat – West Jordan to schedule an appointment.