ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) disorders encompass a wide range of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. These disorders can impact various functions, including hearing, breathing, swallowing, and balance. Some common ENT disorders:
Ear Disorders:
- Otitis Media: An infection or inflammation of the middle ear, common in children, often resulting in ear pain and fever.
- Tinnitus: A condition characterized by ringing or buzzing noises in the ears without an external source.
- Hearing Loss: Can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, noise exposure, infections, and earwax buildup.
- Meniere’s Disease: A disorder of the inner ear causing vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.
Nose Disorders:
- Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses, leading to congestion, facial pain, and nasal discharge.
- Allergic Rhinitis: An allergic reaction causing sneezing, itching, and a runny or blocked nose.
- Nasal Polyps: Noncancerous growths in the lining of the nasal passage that can cause breathing difficulties and frequent infections.
Throat Disorders:
- Tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils, often due to a viral or bacterial infection, causing sore throat and difficulty swallowing.
- Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx, or voice box, leading to hoarseness or loss of voice.
- Pharyngitis: Inflammation of the pharynx, causing a sore throat and discomfort.
Head and Neck Disorders:
- Sleep Apnoea: A serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts, often due to throat muscles relaxing excessively during sleep.
- Thyroid Disorders: Conditions affecting the thyroid gland, such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, can impact metabolism and overall health.
Diagnosis and treatment of ENT disorders often involve a combination of medical history review, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests such as audiograms, imaging studies, and endoscopic evaluations. Treatments may include medications, surgery, or lifestyle changes depending on the specific condition and its severity. Read more about common ENT issues below.
