ENT specialists or otolaryngologists treat conditions and disorders of ears, nose, throat, sinuses and related areas of the head and neck. While it is suggested to first visit a general physician for all kinds of health concerns, there are certain clear indicators for seeing an ENT specialist.

1. Sinus Pain or Infection

Sinuses are the cavities present in the skull behind the nose and around the eyes. Inflammation of these cavities may occur due to several reasons including bacterial or viral infection, allergies, particulate irritation of the sinuses or an autoimmune reaction. This condition is very common and is called sinusitis or sinus infection. Symptoms include headache, nasal congestion, runny nose and facial pain. If such signs are observed, an ENT specialist should be consulted. The doctor may prescribe medicine to ease pain, treat congestion and may also suggest how to prevent it from occurring in future.

Sometimes, people experience severe sinus pain which is not accompanied by any other signs or symptoms. In such a situation, seeing an ENT specialist will help diagnose the condition and find the right treatment plan.

2. Laryngitis or Laryngeal Infection

When inflammation of a person’s larynx or voice box occurs due to infection or irritation, the condition is known as laryngitis or laryngeal infection. It is characterised by a hoarse voice. While laryngitis is very common and can be treated by self-care, persistent hoarseness or loss of voice is a matter of concern. If it lasts for more than six weeks, there may be a major underlying health issue such as cancer. Hence, one should visit an ENT specialist in such a situation to find out the cause and get it treated well in time.

3. Tonsillitis

Tonsils are the two oval-shaped masses of tissues located on each side of the back of the throat. When these tonsils catch an infection, the condition is called tonsillitis and may lead to fever, sore throat, trouble breathing and difficulty in swallowing. Seeking an ENT specialist for this condition is highly recommended. The doctor, after analysing the condition, may prescribe home remedies, medications, or even suggest a tonsil-removal surgery in critical cases.

4. Ear Infection

An ear infection may occur due to germs and/or mucous build up behind the eardrum caused by an allergy or infection. Common signs include severe pain and trouble hearing. Ear infections should be treated early to prevent them from spreading or leading to further complications such as the bursting of the eardrum. An ENT specialist can help by running tests, diagnosing the condition and finding the best treatment plan.

5. Sleep Apnea

Snoring is common but feeling tired even after a full night’s sleep is not. If a person experiences excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep deprivation along with loud snoring, they might be suffering from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke if left untreated. Hence, an ENT specialist should be consulted to get the condition treated.

The Bottom Line

An ENT specialist helps in many other ears, nose, throat and related conditions in addition to the above-mentioned ones. This includes hearing loss, persistent nasal congestion, ringing in ears, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes and vertigo, among others. It is important to stay aware and notice unexplainable body changes so that one can consult the doctor in time.

HJ Hospitals is manned by top specialists, experienced nurses and night doctors to provide world-class facilities to the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo. In case of any health emergency or concern, one can receive the best medical advice and treatment with us. Also, one should always remember that the quicker a concern is diagnosed and treated, the lesser are the chances of further complications.