Ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists are also called otolaryngologists. They receive special training in both the medical and surgical treatment of specific disorders that effect your ears, nose and throat. They also address medical problems associated with the components nearby e.g. the head and the neck. If your doctor believes you have a serious problem in any of these fields, he or she will recommend you to an ENT.

What to Expect: The Basics

The specifics of the consultation will vary according to whether you are concerned about your hearing, nasal passages or throat. In general, the initial session will begin with a conversation. You will both get to ask questions. The ENT specialist will focus on your medical history but will also address your working, home and play environments. Some common questions he or she will ask include:

• What is the problem?
• When did it start?
• What are the specific symptoms?
• Is it stationary or does it affect more than one component?
• Is it continuous or intermittent?
• Is it a recurring problem?
• Is there a trigger to it or is it the result of something else? This helps differentiate allergic reactions from infections or specific illnesses.
• Are you taking any medications, vitamins or supplements?

After asking these questions and gathering a medical history, a physical examination will occur. It will focus on the specific part of your body affected.

Examination by an ENT Specialist

An ENT utilizes rather unusual instrumentation and equipment to access some difficult areas. The examination will be thorough and may embrace various components that may be involved in the problem e.g. nose and throat; nose and ears. Among the devices your ENT specialist may use are:

• Endoscope: This, in either rigid or flexible form, is employed to inspect the nose
• Nasolaryngoscope: This instrument is inserted into the nose. It allows the ENT to look into the back of the nose as well as the voice box
• Otoscope: This allows the ENT to examine and clearly see different parts of the ear clearly, specifically the eardrum
• Speculum: Provides clear visuals of the front of the nose
• Tongue depressor: This will provide a basic look of the tongue and throat opening as well as the tonsils

In addition to these pieces of medical equipment, an ENT will also employ various forms of lighting to help his or her see clearly the condition of the part.

Visiting an ENT Specialist

While a visit to an ENT doctor may seem unusual, it is nothing to fear. The instrumentation may appear unusual, but it serves a definite purpose. From the initial questioning to the final treatment, an ENT specialist is there to help you discover, manage and treat the medical problem affecting your quality of life.