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ENT specialists are trained professionals who treat issues of ears, nose, and throat. They are also trained in dealing with issues of head and neck. ENT experts aren't only medical professionals who help in managing and dealing with a sinus, sleep apnea, or swimmer’s ear.

To become an ENT specialist one must have to complete their MBBS undergraduate degree from an accredited institution or university.

• They will have to go through a 2-year specialization course after completing 4-year undergraduate courses to gain knowledge about a variety of specializations.
• There is a five years residency program for all ENT aspirants to gain hands-on experience and training.
• After going through the complete process, an ENT specialist must pass the exam from their country’s medical board and association to get licensed.

An ENT specialist can further gain subspecialty in any of the following:

• Allergy: These professionals are trained in treating environmental allergic reactions that may include pollen or dander from pets. The specialist may provide a booster or dose to control it.
• Reconstructive surgery of the face: The ENT specialists are trained in facelifts and other sorts of reconstructive surgeries. They can also perform nose jobs and fix issues or face deformities that persist from childhood.
• Head and neck Specialists: These specialists can help deal with and treat tumors of the mouth, throat, esophagus, voice box, etc. They have training in operating such issues.
• Otology and neurotology: These are experts who provide assistance in case of issues with your ears including infections, hearing loss, disorientation, and ringing or buzzing in the ears.
• Pediatric ENT: Pediatric ENTs are uniquely educated to treat children, and their tools and exam rooms are tailored specifically to make children feel comfortable.
• Laryngology: They specialize in disorders and accidents of the larynx and vocal cords. They can also assist in the diagnosis and treatment of swallowing disorders.

An Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist can treat many medical conditions and perform surgery. Some of the problems they can treat include:

• Ear infections include loss of hearing, balance trouble, or infections.
• Nose related issues like allergies, growths in the nasal cavity, or sinusitis
• Throat infections like problems while swallowing, tonsillitis, and change in voice.
• Sleeping issues due to blockage in the respiratory tract including, sleep apnea, snoring, interrupted breathing, etc.
• Infections or tumors of the neck or head.

Some of the common diagnostic tests or procedures that can be performed by ENT specialists are as follows:

• Hearing tests include tympanometry, Evokes potential, pure tone audiometry.
• Throat and voice-related procedures include biopsies, Barium swallow, Laryngoscopy, Stroboscopy, and Laryngeal electromyography (EMG).
• Nose and sinus treatments include Sinus computed tomography scans (CT and CAT) and Nasal endoscopy.

An ENT specialist should be visiting in case of chronic problems that are associated with the ear, throat, or nose. In case of any of the following situations you can visit an ENT specialist:

Ear infections: One of the most prevalent reasons for parents to take their children to the doctor is ear infections. Antibiotics are normally prescribed by ENTs, but if the infections persist, surgery may be recommended.

Tonsillitis: It is a tonsillar infection. Doctors usually treat it with antibiotics, but if it doesn't go away, they may recommend that you have your tonsils removed.

Chronic sinusitis: It refers to sinus problems that continue longer than four months. ENTs are trained to help determine the root of the problem and treat it.

Hearing loss: It is a natural part of growing older. However, unexpected hearing loss could indicate something more dangerous. An ENT specialist can find out what's wrong and help with the right treatment plan to improve the condition.

A lump in your throat: A lump in the neck that persists for more than two weeks could be an indication of cancer of the mouth, throat, thyroid, or blood. Malignant cancer frequently travels first to the lymph nodes present in the throat.

Swollen lymph nodes: They can potentially be an indication of a dangerous illness but are frequently caused by minor ailments like strep throat and can be easily managed by an ENT specialist.

Loud snoring: Adults snore frequently, while toddlers rarely do. It may not be a symptom of anything dangerous, but it's wise to check with your pediatrician to see whether an ENT is recommended. It could be a sign of sleep apnea, which can cause facial bone problems or bedwetting.

During the first visit with an ENT specialist, it is common for the doctor to take a comprehensive medical history. It is also recommended to jot down all the symptoms that you are going through. Symptoms help in easy diagnosis and quick detection of the problem that needs the treatment.

• It is also important to tell the ENT specialist the exact timeline around when the symptoms start.
• The ENT will undertake a physical and visual examination, depending on the purpose of the appointment. This could entail inspecting your ears, nose, and throat.
• The otoscope is a piece of unique medical equipment used by ENTs to see into your ears, may be used.
• The examination can sometimes turn on the gag reflex and lead to gag, vomit, and other such responses. You may also observe palpitations in your neck, throat, cheeks, and other parts of your face and head.
• Some people feel additional stress, discomfort, or anxiety when their face is touched. It’s better to openly discuss the same with your doctor to avoid such negative emotions from hindering the healing process.