An ENT doctor, also known as an otolaryngologist, is a physician who focuses on diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, and throat. This is one of the oldest medical specialties, and it covers a wide range of illnesses. Pediatric otolaryngology, otology/neurotology, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, allergy, head and neck, laryngology, and rhinology are all subspecialties of ENT doctors who spend about 15 years in school and training. Though an ENT doctor can run a general practice and treat patients in any of these areas, many specialize in one.
Ear infections, hearing loss, birth defects of the head and neck, allergies, and asthma can all be treated by an ENT doctor who specializes in pediatric otolaryngology. Patients with ear problems will be treated by an ENT who focuses on otology/neurotology. Cancer of the ear, nerve pathway disorders, injury, swimmer’s ear, and ringing in the ears are all possibilities. An otolaryngologist who specializes in allergies treats patients who have hay fever, a chronic runny nose, sore throat, or sinusitis as a result of sensitivity to pollen, dust, mold, or certain foods.
An ENT who specializes in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery treats both cosmetic and functional abnormalities of the face and neck. Nose jobs, face lifts, and cleft palate repair are among the procedures available. Tumors of the head and neck are the focus of the head and neck subspecialty. Thyroid and voice box tumors, whether cancerous or noncancerous, are the most common.
The throat is the primary focus of the ENT doctor’s subspecialty of laryngology. Treatment for a sore throat, voice problem, swallowing disorder, or gastroesophageal reflux disease may be included (GERD). Nasal and sinus problems such as nose bleeds, stuffy noses, loss of smell, and painful sinus problems are all part of the rhinology subspecialty.
ENT doctors are trained in both surgery and standard treatment practices, allowing them to care for patients from the onset of symptoms through surgical procedures, if such invasive treatment is required. This distinguishes them from other doctors who must refer patients to surgeons when treatment is required. An ENT doctor may be a better choice than a general physician for any patient who has an ear, nose, or throat disorder and prefers to see only one doctor throughout treatment.