A range of problems – from sleep apnea to facial paralysis – can be treated with a visit to an ear, nose and throat specialist (or otolaryngologist). However, not all medical issues in their area require drastic measures such as surgery or rehabilitation, and some can be solved by simple hearing tests. If you or a loved one experience any of the following symptoms, consider visiting an ENT specialist to learn if you require special attention and treatment.
* Sinus pain: Pain in the ear, on your face, in the upper teeth and between your eyes is usually accompanied by nasal congestion, obstruction and abnormal drainage. Frequent sinus pain is often confused with allergies. Antibiotics and steroids can help treat flare-ups, and you should see a doctor to rule out more serious conditions.
* Congestion: This feeling of head pressure often comes from abnormal contact between the nasal passage and sinuses, which means that you may have an infection or allergic rhinitis (allergy problems). Sudden, infrequent onsets can be caused by viral infections, seasonal allergies and acute bacterial infections, and treated with over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Chronic congestion may be due to allergies or anatomic abnormalities, like a deviated septum, that needs an ENT specialist’s attention.
* Hearing loss: Conductive hearing loss means there could be a problem with the eardrum, ear canal and/or the three bones connected to the eardrum. Common causes include fluid behind the eardrum or excess wax in the ear canal, both of which can be treated with surgery. Sensorinural hearing loss occurs because of damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve from noise exposure and aging, and digital hearing aids can often help bring back lost sounds.
* Airway obstruction: Inability to breathe through the nose comfortably may be due to a viral infection or headache. However, if this condition appears at night only, it may be because your reclining position pumps more blood into the many vessels in your nose and swells the area already suffering from existing nasal problems. See an ENT to discuss different pillow and surgical options.
* Headaches: Individuals often wrongly assume that headaches paired with sinus problems are related to congestion in the sinus cavity. Some are actually caused by acute upper respiratory infections, chronic sinusitis or anatomic abnormalities. Headaches accompanied by few sinus symptoms should be checked out by a specialist who will often do a CT scan early in the diagnosis for more effective treatment.
* Drainage: This symptom usually appears in the form of post nasal drip and/or a runny nose. Chronic post nasal drip can be a form of acid reflux (Laryngo-pharyngeal reflux) that often isn’t accompanied with indigestion or heartburn, and should be addressed by a specialist. Many medicines and supplements are currently on the market to treat this issue.
