Signs you may have an ENT issue include:
- Coughing
- Ear pain
- Nose bleeds or discharge
- Throat issues
In some cases, these can be treated by a local ENT specialist.
When Should You Go to The Doctor?
If these symptoms are persisting for over two weeks, it is best to see a doctor as soon as possible. In most cases of ENT problems, the sooner you visit your doctor, the simpler and less expensive treatment will be. Many problems can resolve on their own. Others may be a slight issue, but a larger problem lurks beneath the surface and your family doctor will help you with this. If your situation is serious, then your GP will refer you to an ENT specialist.
Feeling Anxious About Seeing The Doctor?
Sometimes people avoid going to the doctors because they think it is embarrassing or they do not have time, but when something like an ENT condition is present, there is no reason to avoid the doctor’s office. Here we will go over some conditions that your family doctor can treat and what you should look for when you visit his or her office.
There are several different problems that can affect your ears, nose and throat. These include allergies, various infections such as the common cold virus. They also include more serious problems. In general it’s best to get any lingering discomforts seen to, at very least to keep your mind at ease.
Making an Appointment
When you go to your family doctor for treatment, ask questions about what could be wrong with you before leaving the office so that they can give your case more information.
If the problem is more serious, they will refer you to an ENT doctor who can give you a more accurate diagnosis. Then your ENT doctor can begin treatment with antibiotics or surgery if necessary.
Other Symptoms
When you have dizziness, pain, hearing loss, or other symptoms that are serious, go to the doctor right away. More common conditions such as allergies and infections won’t get better on their own without proper treatment, so schedule an appointment with your doctor for some relief.
Aside from these short-term problems, there are some long-term risks that can be avoided if you seek treatment from an ENT. Chronic ear infections and hearing loss may need to be addressed sooner rather than later, especially if they interfere with speech or learning.
If your ears feel full and you don’t know why it’s time for a trip to the ENT specialist. Sinus trouble is not only uncomfortable, it can cause difficulty eating, drinking, and sleeping. When you’re ready to learn more about your sinuses, nasal congestion, or allergies, the ENT specialist is the doctor for the job.
The most common problem that people don’t know how to treat on their own is snoring. If this noise keeps you (or anyone around you) awake at night, then you might consider finding an ENT doctor.
It’s important to find the right specialist if you suspect that there may be a problem with your ears, nose, or throat. An earache needs immediate attention because it could indicate an infection of the middle ear (otitis media) what is also called “glue ear” because the blockage in the ear can cause fluid to build up. If you’re experiencing pain when you swallow, then you should definitely make an appointment with your doctor for an evaluation.
There are many conditions that might show you need to see an ENT specialist or head and neck surgeon. A sore throat, nasal congestion, sinusitis, ear blockage, and hoarseness or a tickle in the throat should all be assessed by an ENT doctor.
Another condition you’ll want to have checked is hoarseness. Hoarseness is subjective and difficult to describe, which is a reason you should definitely see a professional when experiencing it. Persistent or intermittent hoarseness that doesn’t go away after a couple of weeks could indicate the growth of a polyp in the throat, laryngitis, or a tumor.
Conclusion
If you experience any of the symptoms listed in this article, visit your GP who may refer you to an ENT specialist. The quality of life we have when everything is working seamlessly should overshadow any doubt you may have in your mind. If you have discomfort, fix it!
