What is an otolaryngologist (ENT doctor)

An otolaryngologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats conditions of the ear, nose, and throat. They’re also known as an ENT doctor. Otolaryngologists are also surgeons, which means they perform operations to help people treat conditions such as hearing loss, tinnitus, obstructive sleep apnea, and more.

What conditions do otolaryngologists treat?

ENT doctors treat several different medical conditions, including:ear conditions, such as infections, hearing impairment or loss, and balance issuesnose and nasal conditions, such as allergies, sinusitis, and obstructionsthroat conditions, such as tonsilitis, difficulty swallowing, and voice issuessleep conditions, such as sleep apnea and snoringnoncancerous or cancerous tumors of the head and neck

What procedures do otolaryngologists perform?

The types of procedures an otolaryngologist performs can depend on their specialty. Typically, these specialists spend several years training in a subspecialty, including:allergiesfacial and reconstructive surgeryhead and necklaryngologyotologypediatric ENTSome of the procedures performed within these subspecialties include:diagnostic tests, imaging, blood work, and morefacelifts and nose jobssleep studiessurgery to correct nasal obstructions or blockagestumor removal

When should I go to an otolaryngologist?

There are many reasons you might want to visit an ENT specialist, including:balance issuescleft palatecongenital disabilities of the ear, nose, or throatdeviated septumdizzinessdrooping eyelidsgastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)ear infectionshearing loss or impairmentinjury to the ear, nose, and throatnasal congestionnerve issues with your ear, nose, and throatproblems with smellreconstruction of the nose or faceYou can ask your primary care physician to refer you to an ENT specialist if you’re experiencing persistent or severe pain or discomfort of the ear, nose, and throat.

What can I expect from my first otolaryngologist appointment?

Usually, your first visit to an ENT specialist starts with a referral made by your primary care physician. Once at your ENT appointment, you can expect the doctor to ask you questions about your medical history and any symptoms you’re experiencing.Typically, your ENT doctor will conduct a physical exam that includes palpating the neck, or examining the neck by touch. They’ll also take a quick look at your ears, mouth, and nose with special instruments. In addition, your ENT doctor may recommend a nasal endoscope, which is a noninvasive procedure that takes a closer look at your sinuses.

What questions should I ask my otolaryngologist?

It’s important that you prepare for your appointment with an ENT doctor. To help you get started, we’ve created a list of good questions to ask your doctor:Can you treat my condition?What are the long-term effects of this condition?Who do I see for follow-up care and appointments?Will my condition affect my health in other ways?What procedures and treatment do you recommend for my condition?What are the potential risks and benefits of this procedure?Are you experienced in performing this procedure?You can use these questions as a starting point, but feel free to add your own. A good practice is to also ask for additional information and take notes during your appointment.