Signs You Need To Schedule an Appointment with an ENT
Experiencing discomfort in your ears, nose, or throat can indicate a more serious issue or condition, especially if it’s been for a long period of time. An ENT doctor specializes in the management and treatment of conditions affecting the ear, nose, and throat and related structures in the head and neck. Learn about some of the possible signs for needing medical attention from an ENT.
Painful Earaches
An earache is often a symptom of an ear infection, which is when a virus or bacteria causes inflammation of the inner, middle, or outer ear. Ear infections can be the result of colds, the flu, allergies, throat infections, or water in the ear after swimming. An ENT can determine whether you have an ear infection or there is another issue at hand.
A Chronic Sinus Infection
Sinuses, when healthy, are empty chambers in the face and forehead. Unfortunately, sinuses are susceptible to inflammation and infection. When a person experiences inflammation and infection for three months or more, this means that he or she most likely has chronic sinusitis. Common symptoms associated with this include congestion, nasal discharge, facial pain and pressure in the sinus region, and loss or reduction in the sense of smell. If you have been suffering from similar symptoms, it is important to schedule an appointment with an ENT to figure out what is causing the infection and the best way to to treat it.
Poor Sleep Quality
Having difficulty sleeping or feeling tired throughout the day? Has your partner mentioned that you snore or a pause in your breathing? If you are struggling with your sleep, there is a chance you have sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes an individual to stop breathing repeatedly when asleep. If left untreated, this disorder can be associated with serious health problems. Seeing an ENT is crucial to get to the root of your issue and treat it so you can improve your sleep quality.
Frequent Tonsil Infections
If you experience frequent tonsil infections, it is best to see an ENT. Tonsil infections, also known as tonsillitis, can be caused by viruses or by bacteria such as strep. Tonsil stones can also trigger tonsil irritation and possibly infection. Symptoms of a tonsil infection include a sore throat and difficulty swallowing. While antibiotics can treat the occasional bacterial infection, if the infections become frequent or prolonged, an ENT may suggest a tonsillectomy to more definitively treat the problem.
Allergic Reaction
While it’s true allergies cause symptoms like nasal congestion, watery or itchy eyes, and sneezing, they can also affect the throat, skin, ears, lungs and gastrointestinal tract. If you experience an allergic reaction, it is important to see an ENT specialist. The doctor may recommend a skin allergy test or a blood allergy test to determine what is triggering your allergies.
Get the Relief You Need From Breathe Clear
Don’t let your symptoms get worse. Take control of your health and contact Breathe Clear Institute today. It is our goal to help alleviate your suffering through effective, minimally invasive treatment options that are tailored just for you. Get the relief you need and deserve from a team that is dedicated to giving you the best possible care.