Most ear, nose and throat problems — a blocked nose during a cold, a mild sore throat — settle on their own within a week or two. But some symptoms point to a problem that needs an ENT specialist (an otolaryngologist): a doctor trained to diagnose and treat conditions of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck, both medically and surgically.
1. Ear pain, discharge or a blocked feeling that keeps coming back
Repeated ear infections, fluid behind the eardrum or discharge from the ear can damage the eardrum and the small hearing bones over time. An ENT specialist can look inside the ear with an endoscope and treat the cause — sometimes with a minor procedure such as grommet insertion or scarless endoscopic tympanoplasty.
2. Hearing loss or ringing in the ears
Gradual hearing loss, sudden hearing loss in one ear, or persistent ringing (tinnitus) should be checked. Sudden hearing loss is an emergency — early treatment gives the best chance of recovery.
3. Sinus problems lasting more than 12 weeks
Facial pressure, a blocked nose, thick discharge and a reduced sense of smell that last beyond three months may be chronic sinusitis. If medicines do not help, functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) can open the blocked sinus passages.
Most ENT problems are far easier to treat when they are caught early.
— Aurum ENT
4. Loud snoring or pauses in breathing at night
Snoring with daytime sleepiness, morning headaches or breathing pauses noticed by a partner can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea. A sleep study helps confirm it.
5. A hoarse voice for more than three weeks
Voice changes that persist need a look at the vocal cords — usually a quick, painless videoendoscopy in the clinic.
6. Dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo)
Many causes of vertigo start in the inner ear. A vertigo assessment can identify the cause and guide treatment.
7. A lump in the neck
A neck lump that does not go away within two to three weeks should always be examined by a specialist.
8. Frequent nosebleeds
Occasional nosebleeds are common, but repeated or heavy bleeding needs evaluation of the nose and blood pressure.
Quick check: which of these do you have?
You ticked several symptoms. A consultation with an ENT specialist is a good idea.
Book a consultationThis checklist is for awareness only and is not a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to see an ENT specialist?
No. You can book directly with our clinic online or by phone.
Is a nasal or ear endoscopy painful?
No. It is a quick outpatient examination, usually done with a local anaesthetic spray.
Do you offer online consultations?
Yes. Choose “Online Video Consultation” while booking your appointment.
References
- American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery — Patient health information www.enthealth.org
- NHS — Sudden hearing loss www.nhs.uk
Disclaimer: The information on this website is solely designed to educate and create awareness among users. This is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or a prescription. Each person and case is unique, the outcomes of any of the treatments listed on this page may vary.
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