If you have an ear, nose or throat condition, you will probably need to visit an ENT. Also known as an otolaryngology, an Ent doctor is a member of what is the oldest medical specialty in America. He or she has received specialized training that focuses on the diagnosis, management and treatment of all diseases and disorders of the ear, nose and throat. This also means being able to surgically and medically address these medical issues as well as any relating to the areas closely associated with them – specifically the head and neck.

What Do ENT Doctors Treat?

ENT doctors are specialists in their field. Their training embraces both the medial aspects and surgical components of any issues relating to the ear, nose and throat. Their expertise encompasses a variety of issues that affect such things as:

Ears

ENTs address the most common problem that affects the ears in the United States – hearing loss. One in 10 Americans suffer from it. While they may visit other doctors, they rely on ENTs to handle this issue. An ENT also understands and treats other rear problems such as:

• Ear infections e.g. otitis media
• Balance disorders
• Tinnitus: ear noise
• Cranial nerve disorders – a limited few
• Birth (congenital) disorders of both the outer and inner ear

The Nose

One common problem adults suffer from is sinusitis. It is a very common health problem in the United States. However, in addition to treating this nasal problem, ENTs also diagnose and treat:

• Allergies
• Disorders of smell – including lack of
• Polyps – small, harmless growths inside the nasal cavity
• Nasal obstructions – the most common is the result of a deviated septum

The Throat

We need our throats or neck to do more than hold up our heads. We need throats to provide us with communication and to provide passage for our food and drink. ENTs diagnose, treat and manage problems that may affect your:

• Throat
• Voice Box or Larynx
• Upper Aero-Digestive Tract or Esophagus

Among the many disorders a doctor may have to address are those that involve your voice as well as swallowing.

Visiting an ENT

Overall, you turn to an ENT specialist to provide you with the information and treatment you require to handle almost any issue that may affect your sense of seeing, smell and hearing. His or her work may also involve addressing issues that may affect the physical appearance of your face. This may be as simple as a minor ear infection or as complex as facial deformities. Whether you are worried about hearing loss, an earache or cancerous growth, you can rely on an ENT to provide you with the answers you require to address the medical situation.