An ENT [ear, nose, and throat] is a specialist doctor who deals with all problems relating to the ear, nose, and throat. These problems include ear infections, sinuses, pain in the ear, nasal activity, etc. They also perform ear surgeries. They can also help answer common questions regarding the ear, such as what is microtia?
But the most concern people have is when to tell if it is the right time to see an ENT. There are plenty of signs that show that you need to see an ENT as fast as possible. In this article, we discuss some of the clear indications that it is time to see an ENT. Let’s explore them.
- If you have a chronic sinus infection
Sinus infection is one of the most common infections of the nose. They can affect anybody regardless of their age. Sinuses are open sores in the bones behind the nose and around the eyes. Mucus in the sinuses normally filters the air you breathe and drain through your nose. But if this mucus is blocked and unable to drain properly, it may cause an infection.
Germs, bacteria, and viruses can cause sinus infections. This can cause more congestion and even make your face feel painful. That’s why you need to see an ENT as soon as possible. The ENT doctor will diagnose and treat the infection by prescribing medicines to relieve the pain and congestion. Additionally, the ENT will help advise you on how you can prevent sinus infections from developing.
- If you have an ear infection
Ear infections tend to affect children. But this doesn’t mean that it can’t affect adults. It can also affect them. Ear infections often involve swelling of the inner ear. This mainly happens when allergy or infection causes germs and mucus to accumulate behind the eardrum. This will not only cause pain but will also lead to trouble hearing.
An ENT doctor has specialized tools that can help him or her look deep into your ear. He or she will also run multiple tests to see if there is more pressure or fluid inside the ear. Once they have done that, they will prescribe the necessary medicine to treat the ear infection. You should visit an ENT doctor immediately if you have an ear infection because treating the infection early can help prevent it from spreading to other areas of the ear and even becoming severe.
- If you are experiencing hearing loss
Hearing loss is also another popular ear problem that affects people of all ages. Its signs include trouble hearing someone in a noisy place, muffled sounds, or ringing in the ear. Having a lot of wax inside your ear can also make it difficult for you to hear. Hearing loss can be caused by several factors, including head injuries, infections, heart problems, loud noises, etc. Microtia can also cause hearing loss.
If you notice that you have trouble hearing or one of your ears is not functioning as usual, you need to visit an ENT doctor immediately. The doctor will diagnose and treat your ear issue. Treatment may include removing the wax from your ear or doing ear surgery to correct the injury. In some cases, the doctor may also prescribe a hearing aid to help restore your hearing.
