When you get a tickle in your throat or you’re battling lengthy congestion, your first inclination might be to schedule an appointment with a primary doctor. While your primary doctor is a great resource, some symptoms and conditions warrant a trip to an ENT expert.
An ENT expert, also called an otolaryngologist, specializes in your ear, nose and throat health. Let’s take a look at three reasons you should schedule an ENT appointment.
1. You’re Battling Sinus Issues
Long-term sinus issues could signal several ENT conditions, including but not limited to:
- Deviated septum
- Allergies
- Nasal polyps
- Chronic sinus infections
While some sinus issues go away independently, symptoms resulting from an underlying condition like a deviated septum require ENT treatment. Your ENT specialist can review your symptoms and suggest effective treatment options, including:
- Septoplasty for a deviated septum
- Allergy medication or immunotherapy
- Polypectomy for nasal polyps
- Balloon Sinuplasty or functional nasal endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic sinus infections
2. You Get Frequent Ear Infections
Ear infections happen when the air-filled space behind the eardrum fills with fluid and gets infected. While many ear infections don’t require treatment, you should see an ENT specialist about repeated or long-lasting cases.
Children are the most likely to get repeated or long-lasting ear infections. Your ENT specialist may recommend ear tubes—thin canals that hold the Eustachian tube open to help your ears drain fluid, preventing infections.
3. You Have Recurring Throat Issues
Frequent hoarseness or sore throats could indicate an underlying issue, including but not limited to:
- Repeated tonsil infections
- Vocal cord paralysis
- Postnasal drip
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
An ENT specialist will examine your throat, potentially using an endoscope (a thin tube with a light and camera), and identify the underlying cause of your symptoms. Based on the cause, they may recommend one or more of the following:
- Tonsillectomy to remove the tonsils
- Injections or voice therapy
- Managing GERD, allergies or other conditions contributing to postnasal drip
- Dietary changes, medication or surgery to manage GERD
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you’re dealing with a persistent ear, nose or throat issue, don’t wait to seek help. Contact ENT of Georgia North to schedule your appointment today.
