What Does an Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist Do?

If you have a sinus infection, sore throat, allergies, or thyroid disease, who should you see for treatment? While primary care doctors often manage these issues, an ENT specialist may be the better choice in some situations.

ENT doctors, or otolaryngologists, are trained extensively in treating ear, nose, and throat conditions. Their expertise spans a wide range of care—from removing tonsils and treating sleep apnea to prescribing allergy medication and diagnosing throat cancer. After medical school, otolaryngologists complete a five-year surgical residency, with some pursuing one to two years of fellowship training to specialize further.

For comprehensive care from experienced ear, nose, and throat specialists, Fort Worth ENT & Sinus is here to help you find lasting solutions for your ear, nose, and throat health.

Understanding Otolaryngology

An otolaryngologist, commonly referred to as an ear, nose, and throat specialist, is a medical professional who diagnoses and treats conditions related to the head and neck. Their expertise includes both surgical and nonsurgical treatments.

Becoming an otolaryngologist requires extensive training. After completing an undergraduate degree, aspiring otolaryngologists must graduate from an accredited medical school. After medical school, they undertake five years of specialized residency training in otolaryngology. Some practitioners specialize by pursuing advanced training in otolaryngology.

Common Conditions Treated by ENT Specialists

Ear Disorders

Otolaryngologists address various ear-related conditions, including:

• Ear infections: Impacting the outer, middle, or inner ear.
• Tinnitus: Persistent ringing in the ears.
• Dizziness: A sense of unsteadiness often linked to inner ear issues.
• Vertigo: A spinning sensation distinct from general dizziness.
• Ruptured eardrum: A perforation in the tympanic membrane.
• Eustachian tube dysfunction: Blockage in the tubes connecting the middle ear to the throat.
• Hearing loss: Ranging from mild impairment to profound loss.

Nose Issues

ENT experts address a variety of nasal conditions, including:

• Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses.
• Allergies: Triggered by pollen, pet dander, or environmental irritants.
• Rhinitis: Inflammation of the nasal lining.
• Nosebleeds: Caused by infections, allergies, trauma, or dryness.
• Postnasal drip: Excess mucus dripping down the throat.
• Deviated septum: Misalignment of the cartilage dividing the nasal cavity.
• Nasal polyps: Noncancerous growths are often linked to allergies or chronic sinus issues.
• Nasal tumors: Growths in the nasal area, which may be benign or cancerous.

Throat Conditions

ENT specialists treat various throat issues, including:

• Sore throat: Caused by infections, allergies, or irritants.
• Tonsillitis: Infection of the tonsils.
• Laryngitis: Inflammation of the voice box and is diagnosed with Laryngoscopy.
• Swallowing difficulties: Dysphagia, caused by conditions in the mouth, throat, or esophagus.
• Vocal cord issues: Including nodules, dysfunction, or paralysis.

Thyroid disorders

The thyroid conditions require professional treatment, including:

• Thyroid Nodules: Abnormal growths in the thyroid that can enlarge over time, requiring professional evaluation.
• Thyroid enlargement: A swollen thyroid that may overproduce hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism.

Sleep Apnea and Allergies: How ENT Specialists Can Help

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is when breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, affecting health and quality of life. Ear, nose, and throat doctors play a key role in diagnosing and treating this disorder. Early treatment is essential to prevent complications and improve sleep quality.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Common symptoms include:

• Loud snoring
• Breathing pauses during sleep (noticed by others)
• Gasping for air
• Dry mouth upon waking
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
• Irritability

Not everyone with sleep apnea snores, so consult an ENT expert if you’re experiencing these symptoms. Don’t ignore sleep issues that leave you feeling drained and irritable.

Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea

Several factors can increase the likelihood of sleep apnea:

• Obesity: Fat deposits can block airways.
• Neck size: Larger necks may have narrower airways.
• Age: More common in older adults.
• Family history: A genetic predisposition increases risk.
• Alcohol or sedatives: These relax throat muscles, worsening sleep apnea.
• Smoking: Smokers are three times more likely to develop sleep apnea.
• Nasal congestion: Difficulty breathing through the nose.

Treating Sleep Apnea with Your ENT Specialist

ENT experts perform thorough evaluations, including medical history reviews, physical exams, and sleep studies to diagnose sleep apnea. It helps determine its type, severity, and the most effective treatment plan tailored to your needs.

The Link Between Allergies and Sleep Apnea

Allergies can disrupt sleep, affecting everyone who experiences allergic reactions, not just those with snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Allergic rhinitis, triggered by allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust mites, causes nasal congestion and irritation.

Common symptoms include:

• Itchy eyes
• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Ear infections
• Breathing difficulties
• Sinus infections
• Daytime sleepiness

OSA occurs when the airway is blocked during sleep, leading to breathing interruptions such as snoring or pauses. Allergies can contribute to OSA by causing nasal congestion, but they may also irritate the tonsils or adenoids, which can swell and obstruct the airway, worsening OSA.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea and Allergies

Allergies can disrupt sleep, but it’s important to distinguish whether they are temporary or contribute to a more serious condition like sleep apnea.

If you suspect your nighttime allergy symptoms are worsening sleep-disordered breathing, getting tested is a crucial first step. A simple home sleep apnea test can help identify underlying issues, though a complete sleep study may sometimes be necessary.

Once diagnosed, proper treatment can significantly improve sleep, especially during allergy season. You’ll soon be enjoying restful nights again.

If you have nighttime allergies and sleep apnea, contact our sleep medicine center today to schedule an assessment and get the help you need.

When to See an ENT Specialist

Seeing an ENT professional is essential if you experience sleep apnea symptoms or persistent allergies. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your quality of life and reduce the risks of untreated sleep apnea.

ENT Services and Treatments

ENT experts provide comprehensive diagnostic, medical, and surgical care for various conditions.

Diagnostic Services

ENT specialists use advanced tools, including:

• Imaging tests: CT scans and MRIs to identify sinus infections, tumors, or abnormalities in the ear, nose, or throat.
• Audiology testing: Hearing tests to assess hearing loss or other auditory issues.
• Hearing aid evaluations: Collaboration with audiologists to determine and adjust hearing aids as needed.

Medical and Surgical Treatments

Treatment options vary based on the condition:

• Allergy treatments: Medications, nasal sprays, and allergy shots.
• Sinus surgery: Surgery to address chronic sinus infections or blockages.
• Ear tube placement: For chronic ear infections, tubes help drain fluid and prevent recurrence.
• Inspire therapy: A surgical procedure to treat obstructive sleep apnea by stimulating airway muscles during sleep.

Pediatric ENT Care

ENT experts provide dedicated care for children dealing with ear infections, tonsillitis, snoring, and other ear, nose, and throat issues. They ensure treatments are customized to a child’s age, development, and specific needs, prioritizing safety and comfort. 

When Should You See an ENT Expert?

Consult an ear, nose, and throat specialist if you experience any of the following symptoms or concerns related to your ears, nose, or throat:

• Chronic or recurring ear infections
• Difficulty hearing or hearing loss
• Frequent sinus infections or nasal congestion
• Hoarseness or difficulty speaking
• Persistent allergies or sinus issues
• Lumps or growths in the neck or throat
• Chronic snoring or sleep apnea
• Difficulty swallowing or pain while swallowing
• Newborn suffering from tongue-tie

Finding early help can ensure proper diagnosis and treatment for these conditions.

Why Choose Fort Worth ENT?

Selecting the right ENT experts is crucial for your health and well-being. Here’s why Fort Worth ENT & Sinus is the right choice for your care:

• Experienced Specialists: Our team of highly trained and compassionate ENT professionals is dedicated to delivering exceptional care.
• Advanced Care: We utilize advanced diagnostic tools and the latest treatments to achieve the best outcomes for our patients.
• Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritize your comfort and satisfaction, working with you to create a care plan tailored to your unique needs.

Conclusion

Whether you’re managing sleep apnea, chronic sinus issues, or hearing loss, ear, nose, and throat specialists are here to help improve your health and quality of life. Fort Worth ENT & Sinus combines cutting-edge treatments with a compassionate, patient-focused approach to address your needs. 

Don’t wait to get the care you deserve. Schedule your appointment with Fort Worth ENT & Sinus today and take the first step toward better health!

FAQs

What is an ENT specialist?

An ENT expert, or otolaryngologist, is a doctor who focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the ears, nose, and throat. They handle many issues affecting hearing, breathing, swallowing, and speaking.

What conditions do ENT specialists treat?

ENT specialists treat various conditions, including:

• Sinus infections
• Hearing loss
• Sleep apnea
• Allergies
• Tonsillitis
• Thyroid issues
• Snoring and voice problems

Do ENT specialists perform surgery?

ENT specialists are trained to perform surgeries when necessary, including sinus surgeries, tonsillectomies, ear tube placements, and sleep apnea treatments.

When should I see an ENT doctor?

Consult an ENT doctor if you experience:

• Chronic ear infections or hearing loss
• Frequent sinus issues or nasal congestion
• Hoarseness or difficulty speaking.
• Sleep apnea or snoring problems

If you’re facing these symptoms, contact Fort Worth ENT & Sinus today for a thorough evaluation and personalized care plan.

Why choose Fort Worth ENT & Sinus?

Fort Worth ENT & Sinus stands out because of:

• Experienced specialists
• Advanced diagnostic tools and treatments
• A patient-centered approach

Book your appointment with us today to experience the best in ENT care!