ENT Doctor: What Conditions Do They Treat and When to Seek One?

ENT is an abbreviation for Ear, Nose and the Throat. So quite simply, ENT doctors are specialists who treat conditions which affect the ear, nose, and throat.

They help with both common and complex problems. Your GP may refer you to an ENT doctor in Singapore if you have pain, infections, or trouble breathing. If it is your child experiencing the symptoms, you may want to see an ENT doctor for children in Singapore.

For today’s guide, we will show you the specific conditions that ENT doctors commonly treat. Importantly, we will share how to tell if it is time to see an ENT doctor in Singapore and most importantly, what to expect when you see an ENT doctor. Let’s begin!

What Disease is Common with ENT?

First things first, please see an ENT doctor if you have persistent ear pain, hearing loss, dizziness, chronic sinus infections, nasal blockages, frequent nosebleeds, a persistent sore throat, voice changes, or difficulty swallowing. Here are some of the diseases most common with ENT:

Ear-related Diseases:

*      Otitis media: This is an infection of the middle ear, often caused by bacteria or viruses following a cold or respiratory infection. It causes ear pain, fluid buildup, and sometimes temporary hearing loss. Children are more prone to this condition due to their shorter and more horizontal eustachian tubes.

*       Otitis externa (Swimmer’s ear): Just as it sounds, this is an infection of the outer ear canal. Usually, it is caused by trapped water creating a moist environment for bacterial growth. Symptoms include ear pain, itching, swelling, and sometimes discharge. Preventive measures include drying the ears properly after swimming and avoiding inserting objects like cotton swabs.

*       Tinnitus: This is the perception of ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears without an external source. It can result from prolonged exposure to loud noise, ear infections, aging, or underlying conditions like Meniere’s disease. While there is no cure, treatment focuses on managing symptoms through sound therapy and lifestyle changes.

*      Hearing loss: This can be caused by aging, infections, noise exposure, or trauma affecting the ear structures. It can be classified as conductive (affecting sound transmission), sensorineural (damage to the auditory nerve or inner ear), or mixed. Early intervention like the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants, can help improve communication and quality of life.

*       Ménière’s disease: This is a chronic inner ear disorder that causes episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. The exact cause is unknown. However, it is believed to result from abnormal fluid buildup in the inner ear. Management includes dietary changes, medication, and, in severe cases, surgery.

Nose-related Diseases

*       Sinusitis: This is the inflammation of the sinuses. It is often caused by infections, allergies, or irritants. Symptoms of sinusitis include nasal congestion, facial pain, and thick mucus discharge. Treatment varies from home remedies like steam inhalation to antibiotics in bacterial cases.

*       Allergic rhinitis (Hay fever): You may get this condition when your immune system overreacts to allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander. It causes sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and postnasal drip. To control symptoms, you will need to manage triggers, or use antihistamines, and allergy shots.

*       Nasal polyps: These are soft, noncancerous growths in the nasal passages or sinuses. They’re often linked to chronic inflammation from asthma, allergies, or infections. Nasal polyps can cause breathing difficulties, a reduced sense of smell, and frequent sinus infections. Treatment may involve corticosteroids, antihistamines, or surgical removal in severe cases.

*      Deviated septum: This condition occurs when the nasal septum, the cartilage separating the nostrils, is significantly off-center. It can lead to breathing difficulties, frequent nosebleeds, and sinus infections due to poor airflow. Severe cases may require surgical correction through a procedure called septoplasty.

*       Epistaxis (Nosebleeds): You may get this condition when blood vessels in your nose rupture due to dryness, trauma, allergies, or high blood pressure. Most nosebleeds are harmless and stop on their own. However, frequent or severe cases may indicate underlying health conditions. Keeping nasal passages moist and avoiding nose picking or excessive blowing can help prevent them.

Throat-related Diseases

*       Tonsillitis: This is the inflammation of the tonsils, usually due to viral or bacterial infections like Streptococcus. It causes a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. While mild cases resolve on their own, recurrent bacterial infections may require antibiotics or a tonsillectomy.

*       Pharyngitis (Sore throat): This is the inflammation of the throat, commonly caused by viral infections like the flu or bacterial infections like strep throat. Symptoms include throat pain, redness, and difficulty swallowing. Treatment depends on the cause, with viral cases managed through rest and hydration. Bacterial infections may need antibiotics.

*      Laryngitis: An inflammation of the voice box (larynx), often due to overuse, infections, or irritants like smoke. It can cause hoarseness, a weak voice, and throat discomfort. Most cases resolve on their own. Avoiding strain and staying hydrated can speed up the recovery.

*       Sleep apnea: Just as the name suggests, this is a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts due to airway obstruction or brain signaling issues. It causes loud snoring, daytime fatigue, and an increased risk of heart disease or stroke. Treatments include lifestyle changes, CPAP machines, or surgery in severe cases.

How Do I Know if I Should See an ENT?

Let’s face it; deciding when to visit a specialist like ENT doctor in Singapore can be confusing. Sometimes, symptoms may seem mild at first but early care is important. Here are some signs that you should see an ENT:

*      Persistent ear pain or a continuous discharge from the ear.

*      Frequent sinus infections or constant nasal blockage.

*       Trouble hearing or a constant ringing sound in your ears.

*      Ongoing nasal congestion or unexpected nosebleeds.

*       A sore throat that does not go away or regular hoarseness.

*       Episodes of dizziness or problems with balance.

Pay attention to your body. If you are unsure about your symptoms, call a doctor. They can advise you if your condition needs an ENT doctor’s care.

Closing Thoughts

When you book an appointment with an ENT doctor in Singapore the doctor will ask about your symptoms in simple terms. They will then perform a thorough check and may use a small light or an instrument to look into your ear.

In some cases, the doctor may suggest further tests. After the examination, the doctor will discuss the findings and explain what the problem is before recommending a proper treatment plan for you.

Do you have symptoms you suspect may be a result of any of the ENT diseases discussed on this page? Get in touch with an experienced ENT doctor in Singapore today to get an assessment and tailored treatment just for you.