Ear, nose, and throat discomfort can be nothing more than a minor annoyance, as may be the case with a mild form of swimmer’s ear
Other times, however, there are problems with ear, nose, and throat structures that require the attention of an ENT doctor in Los Angeles.
Ear Problems
Along with inner or middle ear infections, an ENT doctor in Los Angeles is prepared to evaluate and treat patients with inner ear disorders like vertigo and persistent or severe ear pain. Chronic ear noise or ringing (tinnitus) may also be manageable with the right approach to treatment. A visit to an ENT doctor could also be beneficial if you are experiencing ear-related problems involving:
- Accident-related ear damage
- Ear abnormalities present at birth
- Some degree of hearing loss or impairment
Nose Problems
Injuries or abnormalities affecting your nose and ability to breath properly can also be evaluated by an ENT doctor in Los Angeles. You may also be able keep sinus infections or similar sinus problems under control if an ENT specialist performs tests or uses specially designed scopes to view your sinus cavities. Similar steps may be taken if you have allergies, severe or chronic nasal congestion, or nasal polyps. You may also be referred to an ENT doctor for any of the following nose-related problems:
- A deviated septum
- Cleft nasal deformities
- Snoring and/or sleep apnea
- Recurring or severe nose bleeds
- Difficulty with smell or the identification of certain odors or scents
Throat Problems
It’s often a chronically sore throat or a change is vocal quality that convinces most people to see an ENT doctor in Los Angeles for throat-related problems. These symptoms can be related to a wide range of throat-related issues – viral infections such as whooping cough (pertussis), bacterial infections like strep throat, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), vocal cord nodules, and tonsillitis are some of the more common culprits. In addition to hoarseness and throat obstructions, throat problems that may be serious enough to warrant attention from an ENT doctor include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Thyroid conditions
- Unexplained throat or neck pain
Other Reasons to Visit an ENT Doctor
Not all possible reasons to see an ENT specialist are neatly divided into ear, nose, or throat problems. For example, TMJ disorders affecting jaw joints sometimes cause pain that extends to areas around the ears. Allergies can also affect both the nose and throat, or other areas if your skin is affected. Because of the way various parts within the head, face, and neck are connected, an ENT doctor typically takes several different structures into consideration when making a diagnosis and recommending treatments.
It’s human nature to turn to home remedies or over-the-counter medications at the first sign of an ear, nose, or throat problem. While such efforts are sometimes effective, symptoms that are getting worse shouldn’t be ignored. An ENT doctor in Los Angeles can also offer tips on how to reduce your odds of experiencing new or returning discomfort after you’ve been treated.