Ear, Nose, and Throat FAQ
What is an ear, nose, and throat doctor?
Do you ever feel like your ears, nose, and throat aren’t quite right but you don’t know who or what to turn to? Fortunately, a visit to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor can help! From giving the answers to all of your questions about your discomfort to assuring that any persistent conditions are properly addressed, ENT doctors are equipped with the knowledge and expertise you need for a healthier body. They specialize in managing medical issues related specifically to your ears, nose, and throat—sometimes even beyond just those areas—so that you no longer have to suffer from pesky symptoms related to any underlying health problems. I will discuss exactly why seeing an ENT is critical for maintaining the healthy functioning of these vital body systems.
Introducing the Role of an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist
When it comes to our health, nothing is more important than finding the right specialist to help us care for our bodies. That’s where the Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist comes in. These doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the head and neck, including issues with breathing, hearing, and speaking. But what sets ENTs apart is their compassionate, personal approach to care. They understand that each patient is unique and requires individualized attention and treatment. With their expertise and genuine concern for their patient’s well-being, ENTs embody the very best qualities of the medical profession. So if you’re experiencing any symptoms related to your ears, nose, or throat, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with an ENT Specialist and experience the highest level of care.
Overall, ENT specialists provide invaluable assistance to patients suffering from a variety of ailments. Whether it’s helping with hearing loss, diagnosing allergies, or performing surgical procedures, these dedicated healthcare professionals have the training and expertise to take care of our ENT-related needs. Becoming a successful ENT is no small feat as these medical professionals must earn a doctoral degree in otolaryngology alongside residencies and fellowships in their fields. Additionally, preventative measures, such as avoiding smoking and using protective gear, can help stave off future illnesses or conditions that require treatment from an ENT specialist. Take some time to thank an ENT specialist today for advancing the field of ear, nose, and throat medicine and providing us with access to groundbreaking treatments!
What is Laryngopharyngeal Surgery?
Laryngopharyngeal surgery, or LPS, is a surgical procedure that is used to treat a variety of issues in the throat and larynx. This type of surgery is minimally invasive, which means that it involves small incisions and causes less damage to the surrounding tissue.
Possible procedures include:
- Phono Microsurgical Management of Vocal Cord Lesions
- Endoscopic Management of Zenker’s Diverticula
- Endoscopic Management of Conditions of the Greater Larynx Structures
- Endoscopic and Robotic Resection of Tumors of the Larynx and Pharynx
What is Salivary Gland Surgery?
Salivary Gland Surgery may seem like a daunting procedure, but it can be incredibly beneficial for those suffering from salivary gland dysfunction.
Possible procedures include:
- Endoscopic Removal of Salivary Gland Stones
- Endoscopic Lysis/Dilation of Ductal Strictures
- Endoscopic Biopsy of Ductal Lesions
How are Severe Sinus Issues Treated?
Treatments for sinus problems include:
- Minimally Invasive Image-Guided Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
- Balloon Sinuplasty
- Endoscopic Submucous Resection of Inferior Turbinates
- Nasal Polypectomy
- Rhinoplasty
- Endoscopic Septoplasty
- FESS with Stereotactic Navigation
How does an ENT help with snoring and sleep apnea?
Do you snore? Do you wake up feeling exhausted, even though you slept for eight hours? You might be suffering from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can impact your health and quality of life. It occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, preventing you from getting the oxygen you need. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to heart problems, high blood pressure, and other health issues. Luckily, there is a treatment available for sleep apnea: surgery. An ENT can perform several different surgeries to help treat snoring and sleep apnea. We will discuss the different surgeries an ENT can perform and how they help with snoring and sleep apnea.
Possible procedures include:
- Pillar Implants
- Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty
- Coblation
- Adenotonsillectomy
- Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty
- Robotic Tongue Base Reduction
- Genioglossus Advancement
- Septoplasty
- Submucous Resection of Inferior Turbinates
What is thyroid and parathyroid surgery?
Thyroid and parathyroid surgery are minimally invasive procedures that can help treat a variety of thyroid and parathyroid conditions. If you are considering these procedures, it is important to understand what they entail and the risks involved.
Possible procedures include:
- Endoscopic Thyroid Lobectomy
- Endoscopic Parathyroidectomy
What does an ENT specialize in?
An ENT, or Otolaryngologist, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the ears, nose, and throat, as well as related structures in the head and neck.
How do I know if I need to see an ENT?
If you are experiencing symptoms related to the ears, nose, or throat, such as ear pain, nasal congestion, or difficulty swallowing, you should consider seeing an ENT.
Can ENTs treat children?
Yes, many ENTs specialize in pediatric otolaryngology and are specifically trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting children’s ears, noses, and throats.
What are some common conditions treated by an ENT?
Some common conditions treated by an ENT include allergies, sinusitis, tonsillitis, ear infections, hearing loss, voice disorders, sleep apnea, and head and neck cancer.
What should I expect during my first visit?
During your first visit, the ENT will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and may order additional tests or imaging studies to help diagnose your condition. They will then work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Will I need surgery if I see an ENT?
Not all conditions require surgery, and an ENT will explore non-surgical treatment options before recommending surgery. However, if surgery is necessary, an ENT has specialized training and expertise to perform a wide range of surgical procedures in the head and neck region.
How long does it take to recover from ENT surgery?
Recovery time can vary depending on the type of surgery and the individual patient. Some procedures may only require a few days of recovery time, while others may require several weeks.
Tinnitus: What is it and How can it be Managed?
Have you ever heard a ringing, buzzing, or perhaps whooshing sound in your ears when there’s no actual sound around you? This is a condition called tinnitus. It is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world, regardless of age or gender.
Tinnitus is defined as the perception of sound in the ears or head without the presence of an external source of sound. The sound can be heard as ringing, buzzing, hissing, or even roaring. Tinnitus can be temporary or chronic and can be caused by a variety of factors such as exposure to loud noises, ear infections, earwax buildup, high blood pressure, or certain medications.
If you or someone you know is experiencing tinnitus, it is important to understand that while there is often no known cure, there are ways to manage and alleviate the symptoms. Here are some tips to help manage tinnitus:
- Protect your ears from loud noises. Loud noises can damage your hearing and make tinnitus worse. If you are in a loud environment, use earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to protect your ears.
- Manage stress. Stress and anxiety can make tinnitus worse. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Caffeine and alcohol can aggravate tinnitus. Limit your intake of these substances.
- Exercise regularly. Exercise can help improve circulation and reduce stress, which can in turn help alleviate tinnitus symptoms.
- Seek treatment for underlying medical conditions. If your tinnitus is caused by an underlying medical condition such as high blood pressure, an ear infection, or wax impaction, treating the condition can significantly improve tinnitus.
- Use white noise. White noise can help mask the sound of tinnitus and make it less noticeable. You can use a white noise machine or a fan to create background noise.
- Consider counseling. Tinnitus can be frustrating and can cause anxiety and depression. Counseling can help you cope with the emotional aspects of tinnitus.
It is important to note that some people may require medical treatment for tinnitus. If your tinnitus is interfering with your daily life, talk to your ENT about possible treatment options. Some treatments may include:
- Medications: There are medications available that can help improve the symptoms of tinnitus.
- Sound therapy: Sound therapy uses external sounds to help mask the sound of tinnitus. This is often done with hearing aids after a thorough discussion.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of counseling that can help you change the way you think about tinnitus and learn coping techniques to help you manage your symptoms.
- Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT): TRT is a type of therapy that uses a combination of sound therapy and counseling to help you habituate to the sound of tinnitus and reduce your perception of it.
When Thyroid Disease Needs a Thyroidectomy
Thyroid disease is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, but there is good news! With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with thyroid disease are able to manage their symptoms and lead a happy, healthy life.
The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and energy levels in the body, and when it’s not functioning properly, it can lead to a range of symptoms. However, there are many treatment options available, including medication, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgery.
While surgery may seem daunting, it is an effective treatment option for many types of thyroid disease, including thyroid nodules, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid cancer. Additionally, with advancements in surgical techniques and technology, the procedure has become safer and more effective than ever before. In fact, many people who undergo thyroid surgery are able to resume their normal activities within just a few weeks of the procedure. For those who require lifelong medication, there are many options available that can help manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life.
While thyroid disease may seem overwhelming, there are many treatment options available that can help manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life. Whether it’s through medication, surgery, or a combination of both, working closely with your doctor can help you find the best course of treatment for your individual needs. So don’t let thyroid disease hold you back—with the right care and management, you can live a happy, healthy life.
Don’t Sleep On Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of partial or complete upper airway obstruction during sleep, resulting in disrupted sleep and a decrease in oxygen levels. The condition can have serious health consequences if left untreated, including an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications.
There are several treatment options available for OSA, ranging from lifestyle changes to surgical interventions. Lifestyle changes are often the first-line treatment for OSA, particularly for mild cases. These may include weight loss, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, sleeping on your side, and quitting smoking. Losing weight can be particularly effective as excess fat in the neck and throat can narrow the airway, making it more susceptible to collapse during sleep. Additionally, sleeping on your side can help prevent the tongue from blocking the airway.
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is another common treatment option for OSA and is arguably the gold standard. It involves wearing a mask over your nose and/or mouth during sleep, which is connected to a machine that delivers a continuous flow of air pressure to keep the airway open. While CPAP is generally effective in treating OSA, it does require consistent use and can be uncomfortable or inconvenient for some patients.
For patients who are unable to tolerate CPAP, oral appliances can be a viable alternative. These devices are custom-made to fit in the mouth and work by positioning the jaw or tongue to keep the airway open. While oral appliances can be effective in treating OSA, they are often less effective than CPAP and may need to be adjusted periodically to ensure proper fit and function.
For patients with more severe OSA or those who do not respond to other treatments, surgical interventions may be necessary. One common surgical procedure is uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), which involves removing excess tissue from the throat to widen the airway. Other surgical options include maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), which involves moving the upper and lower jaws forward to increase the space in the airway, and, depending on severity, tracheostomy, which involves creating a hole in the neck to bypass the upper airway obstruction.
While these treatments can be effective in treating OSA, they do come with risks and potential complications, particularly for surgical interventions. Additionally, not all patients are candidates for surgery or may prefer to explore less invasive options.
This is where the Inspire device comes in. The Inspire device is a newer treatment option for OSA that has shown promising results. It works by delivering mild stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve, which controls the movement of the tongue and other muscles in the throat. This stimulation helps to keep the airway open during sleep, reducing the frequency and severity of OSA events. The device is controlled by a small handheld remote that the patient uses to turn the device on and off and adjust the stimulation settings. The device has a low risk of side effects and complications and can reduce sleep apnea severity by up to 90% in appropriately selected patients.
While obstructive sleep apnea is a serious condition, there are many effective treatment options available. From lifestyle changes to surgical interventions, there is hope for those struggling with OSA. And for those who have tried other treatment options with little success, the Inspire device offers a promising solution that has already helped many people improve their symptoms and quality of life.
So if you or someone you know is dealing with OSA, talk to a healthcare professional and explore the different treatment options available. With the right approach, it’s possible to overcome this condition and enjoy restful, rejuvenating sleep once again!
Nasal Obstruction and Treatment: Breathing Easy!
Nasal obstruction occurs when the nasal passages become blocked or narrowed, making it difficult to breathe through your nose. This can be caused by a variety of factors such as allergies, nasal polyps, deviated septum, or a cold. Nasal obstruction can be uncomfortable and frustrating, but there are treatments available to help you breathe.
One of the most common causes of nasal obstruction is allergies. Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is a type of inflammation in the nose that occurs when the immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or animal dander. The inflammation can cause the nasal passages to become congested or blocked. In addition to nasal congestion, allergic rhinitis can cause sneezing, itching, and watery eyes.
Nasal polyps are another cause of nasal obstruction. Nasal polyps are small, noncancerous growths that develop in the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They can cause the nasal passages to become narrowed or blocked, making it difficult to breathe through the nose. Other symptoms of nasal polyps include runny nose, postnasal drip, and loss of sense of smell.
A deviated septum is a condition where the septum, the thin wall between the nostrils, is crooked or off-center. This can cause one nasal passage to be smaller than the other, leading to difficulty breathing through the nose. A deviated septum can be caused by injury, no matter how innocuous, or it can be a congenital condition.
A common cold or other upper respiratory infection can also cause nasal obstruction. During a cold, the nasal passages become inflamed and produce mucus. The excess mucus can cause congestion and block the nasal passages, making it difficult to breathe through the nose.
There are several treatments available to help relieve nasal obstruction. For mild cases, over-the-counter nasal decongestants such as pseudoephedrine or oxymetazoline can be helpful. These medications work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and congestion. However, these medications should not be used for more than three days in a row as they can cause rebound congestion and actually worsen obstruction.
Nasal corticosteroid sprays are another treatment option for nasal obstruction. These medications work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, which can help relieve congestion. Nasal corticosteroid sprays are available over-the-counter or by prescription and need to be used consistently for best results and are best used as a preventative measure.
In addition to medical treatments, there are also some lifestyle changes that can help relieve nasal obstruction. For example, using a humidifier in your bedroom can help keep the air moist, which can reduce nasal irritation and congestion. Nasal saline rinses can also help clear the nasal passages and relieve congestion. It’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
For more severe cases of nasal obstruction, surgery may be necessary. Surgery can be used to rapidly correct a deviated septum or remove nasal polyps. There are several types of surgery available, including septoplasty, turbinate reduction, and endoscopic sinus surgery- all of which are generally tolerated well with short recovery. An ENT can help determine the best course of treatment for your individual case.
Understanding Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease
Itchy/scratchy throat? Hoarse voice? Throat clearing or cough? These symptoms might not always be the result of a common cold or a respiratory illness. In some cases, they could be signs of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease (LPRD).
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease, also known as silent reflux, is a type of reflux irritation that affects the throat and voice box. Unlike gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where the acid refluxes into the esophagus, LPRD affects the structures in the back of the throat and possibly the lungs. This can cause a variety of symptoms such as chronic cough, hoarseness, throat clearing, postnasal drip, and difficulty swallowing.
LPRD occurs when stomach acid travels back up into the throat and voice box. This can happen when the muscle that separates the stomach and esophagus, known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), fails to function properly. When the LES is weak, acid can flow into the esophagus and travel all the way up to the throat, causing irritation and inflammation. Some factors that can contribute to the development of LPRD include obesity, smoking, eating large meals, consuming acidic or spicy foods, and stress.
Diagnosing LPRD can be challenging because the symptoms are similar to those of other upper respiratory conditions and are generally vague. Often, LPRD can mimic the symptoms of throat or laryngeal cancer which leads to anxiety and worry in these patients. A healthcare provider will likely perform a thorough physical exam and may refer the patient to an otolaryngologist (ENT) for a more focused evaluation. The ENT may perform a laryngoscopy, a very short and easy procedure that involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into the throat, to examine for signs of inflammation or damage and, just as crucially, to rule out masses or lesions which can lead to similar symptoms. The severity and location of these findings can help guide treatment and management of the condition.
Treatment for LPRD usually involves lifestyle modifications and medication. Lifestyle modifications may include avoiding acidic or spicy foods, losing weight, avoiding eating before bedtime, and quitting smoking. Medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers, and antacids may be prescribed to reduce acid production and neutralize stomach acid. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to tighten the LES and prevent acid reflux.
While LPRD can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience persistent symptoms as these are not always signs of reflux disease. Left untreated, LPRD can lead to complications such as chronic laryngitis, vocal cord nodules, or polyps, and can mask the symptoms of other underlying problems. With the proper treatment and management, individuals with LPRD can live a healthy and comfortable life.