What is an ear, nose, and throat doctor?
An ear, nose, and throat doctor, also called ENT, is a physician who specializes in treating conditions and disorders of the region below the brain and above the shoulders. An ENT doctor may also be referred to more formally as an otolaryngologist. They treat both adults and children for problems that occur in the neck, head, and ears, including:
- Placing ear tubes and other ear surgeries
- Hearing problems
- Sinus issues including sinusitis and sinus headaches
- Nasal conditions, including deviated septum
- Tonsils and adenoids
- Mouth, throat, or larynx problems
- Thyroid disorders
- Cancers of the head and neck
What does an ENT look for?
ENTs look for problems or abnormalities in a patient’s ear, nose, and throat. They have special tools, such as a speculum or laryngoscope, that allow them to look deeper inside the ear and nose to help them diagnose and treat patients.
If a patient has sudden hearing loss, the ENT examines their ears to determine whether it is a blockage, physical abnormality, or damage to parts of the ear causing the issue. ENTs may physically examine the problem area or use imaging devices to see if there are any problems they can’t detect manually.
When should you see an ENT?
You should see an ENT if you have recurrent ear or sinus infections, chronic problems with your tonsils, or if you’re suffering from allergies or hearing loss. You should also see an ENT if you’re experiencing hoarseness for an extended period or feel a lump in your neck. If you suffer from tinnitus, vertigo, or other balance issues, you should consult an ENT. Your primary care doctor may refer you to an ENT for treatment.
What will an ENT do at your first visit?
During your first visit, the ENT will ask you about your symptoms. They also examine you and may run tests. Tests during your first ENT visit may include:
- Nasal exam that looks at tissues within your nose, such as your septum, with or without the use of a nasal endoscopy tool to help them look for abnormalities
- Neck exam to check your lymph nodes, salivary glands, and thyroid
- Pressure testing or audiometric testing to detect problems with hearing loss or balance issues
- Larynx and voice box examination
Can you eat before an ENT appointment?
You can eat or drink normally before your ENT appointment. The only exception is if you’re getting CT imaging tests with contrast dye. For contrast procedures, you’ll have to refrain from eating or drinking for two hours before the imaging test.
You don’t have to avoid eating for ultrasounds and all other examinations done by your ENT. If you’re having allergy testing done by an ENT, you may need to stop certain medications before your appointment.
What is the difference between an ENT and an otolaryngologist?
There is no difference between an ENT and an otolaryngologist; they are two different terms for the same profession. Otolaryngologist is the formal name for an ear, nose, and throat doctor.
Many otolaryngologists go by the less formal designation, ENT, since it’s more approachable and understandable to patients. Both ENTs and otolaryngologists receive the same medical education and training before they can start practicing medicine.
