Are you having problems with your ears, nose, or throat?

A medical doctor who treats conditions that affect any of these body parts is called an Otolaryngology. An ear, nose, and throat doctor as they are also known to treat conditions that affect these regions.

What ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) Specialists Deal With

There are many different types of ear nose throat disorders or conditions that otolaryngologists treat. Some common conditions include allergies, sinus problems, hearing loss, balance disorders, and voice disorders. Otolaryngologists also treat more rare conditions such as cancer of the head and neck region.

Ear Conditions

The first step before you can visit an ENT doctor is to find out whether there is any suspicious symptom in your ear. Do you feel some ringing/tinnitus, pain, or hearing impairment? Is there any infection? Some people may also have been born with a condition that can also be handled with the help of an experienced ear nose throat doctor.

Common Ear Conditions that Otolaryngologists Treat:

-Otitis media (ear infection)

-Otosclerosis (a condition that affects the bones in the middle ear)

-Cholesteatoma (a benign growth in the middle ear)

-Acoustic neuroma (a benign tumor on the nerve that connects the ear to the brain)

-Hearing loss

For a list of common ear disorders, click here to read the symptoms and how to treat them.

Nose Conditions

There are various types of nose disorders that ENT doctors treat. Some of the most common include:

• Nasal Congestion: This is a condition in which the nasal passages become blocked, making it difficult to breathe. It can be caused by allergies, colds, or other respiratory infections. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, runny nose, and snoring. Treatment options include decongestants, antihistamines, and nasal sprays.
• Nasal Polyps: These are non-cancerous growths that can develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They are usually caused by allergies or asthma. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, runny nose, and loss of smell. Treatment options include corticosteroid nasal sprays, surgery, and immunotherapy.
• Deviated Nasal Septum: This is a condition in which the bone and cartilage that separate the two sides of the nose are not aligned properly. It can be caused by an injury or birth defect. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, nosebleeds, and headaches. Treatment options include nasal strips, decongestants, and surgery.
• Nosebleeds: These can occur for a variety of reasons, including colds, allergies, or drying of the nasal passages. Treatment options include pinching the nostrils shut for several minutes or using a saline spray to lubricate the nose.
• Sinusitis: This is an inflammation of the sinuses that can be caused by allergies, infections, or structural abnormalities. Symptoms include pain and pressure in the face, difficulty breathing, and fever. Treatment options include decongestants, antihistamines, and antibiotics.
• Allergies: These are reactions of the immune system to substances that are typically harmless. Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms including runny nose, sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. Treatment options include avoidance of triggers, antihistamines, and immunotherapy.
• Colds: These are respiratory infections that are caused by viruses. Symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and fever. Treatment options include rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medication.
• Asthma: This is a chronic condition that affects the airways. Asthma can be triggered by allergens, exercise, or infections. Symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. Treatment options include inhalers, bronchodilators, and steroids.

Prevention of nose disorders generally includes avoiding triggers (such as allergens or irritants), maintaining good hygiene, and treating underlying conditions (such as allergies or asthma). If you experience any symptoms of a nose disorder, it is important to see an ENT doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Nose surgery may be necessary for functional or cosmetic reasons. To read more about the various types of nose conditions that require surgery, click here to learn about nose surgery.

Throat Conditions

Throat disorders that ENT doctor treats include various types of throat conditions that can cause pain and discomfort. ENT doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders. Some common throat disorders that ENT doctor treats include:

• Sore throat: A sore throat is a common condition that can be caused by a number of things, such as a virus, allergies, or other irritants. Symptoms of a sore throat include pain, scratchiness, or itchiness in the throat. Treatment for a sore throat often includes rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medication.
• Tonsillitis: Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, which are two small glands in the back of the throat. Tonsillitis is often caused by a virus, but it can also be caused by bacteria. Symptoms of tonsillitis include a sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Treatment for tonsillitis often includes antibiotics, pain relief, and rest.
• Laryngitis: Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx, which is the voice box. Laryngitis can be caused by a virus, allergies, or overuse of the voice. Symptoms of laryngitis include hoarseness, sore throat, and general fatigue. Treatment for laryngitis often includes rest, hydration, and avoiding the use of the voice.
• Pharyngitis: Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharynx, which is the throat. Pharyngitis can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or other irritants. Symptoms of pharyngitis include sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Treatment for pharyngitis often includes antibiotics, pain relief, and rest.
• Epiglottitis: Epiglottitis is an inflammation of the epiglottis, which is a small flap of tissue that covers the opening of the larynx. Epiglottitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection. Symptoms of epiglottitis include sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Treatment for epiglottitis often includes antibiotics and hospitalization.

Indirect Conditions that Arise from ENT Conditions

Did you know that when you suffer from any of the ENT conditions, other problems can arise? For example, if you have a nose problem, an ENT specialist in Singapore can perform reconstructive surgery. Nerve problems can also occur and ENT doctors have again been trained to manage them.

When You Should Visit An ENT Doctor?

The common reasons when this medical attendance is needed include the following:
• Pain on the nose, ear, and throat
• Hearing impairment
• Injury
• Tonsil
• Lack of balance
• Infection on your ears
• Sore throat
• Nose Bleeds

The symptoms are not limited to the above and that’s why you should visit the best ENT ​clinic when the above appears.

Tips For Finding The Right ENT Doctor

Finding the right ENT specialist in Singapore can easily be achieved if you adhere to the following:

1. It’s ideal to choose an ENT doctor who has specialized. For example, if your problem is with the nose, choose an Otolaryngologist who has expertise in the same.

2. What is your insurance cover? The best ENT clinic to serve you is that which will allow your insurance type. They should also be able to attend to you as quickly as possible without too much demand.

3. When have they been in service? The best clinic to visit is that which has been serving people with similar problems for many years. This is an assurance that your condition too can be managed and treated with a high success rate. The reason is that the doctors there would have what it takes to attend to you.

4. Do you have any referrals? If you have a friend or a family member who once had the problem, then he/she can assist in referring you to the best specialist in town.

If you have any concerns about your ears, nose, or throat, visit the Ear Doctor Singapore website to book an appointment to consult with an otolaryngologist or ENT specialist. ENT specialists are trained to treat conditions of the ear, nose, and throat. They can also diagnose and treat related head and neck conditions.