ENT doctors are specialists who treat disorders and diseases of the mouth, nose, and throat. Their services range from diagnosing allergies to treating gastroesophageal reflux. Their expertise also extends to treating gastroesophageal reflux disease and sinus infections.
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Treat Conditions That Affect The Ears, Nose, Throat, Sinuses, And Mouth.
An ENT specialist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions involving the ears, nose, throat, sinuses, and mouth. They are trained to deal with the specific needs of children, so they use tools that will put your child at ease. An ENT doctor, such as from care services Farmington NM can help with common childhood problems, including nose bleeds, speech problems, and congenital disabilities of the head. Some ENTs also perform cosmetic procedures. For example, ENTs often prescribe antibiotics and steroids to help treat laryngitis.
They Diagnose And Treat Allergies.
Allergies are an extremely common problem in Americans and affect millions yearly. While many of these conditions aren’t life-threatening, many can be uncomfortable and even painful. An ENT doctor can help you identify and treat allergies. Some common symptoms include throat and intestinal problems, persistent headaches, and fatigue. An ENT doctor can also diagnose and treat sinus infections. These conditions may be caused by allergies or other conditions, such as asthma.
They Can Treat Gastroesophageal Reflux.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive disorder that causes acid in the stomach to reflux back into the throat or nasal airway. It can affect people of any age, from infants to older people. However, it is particularly common in people with asthma since flare-ups loosen the lower esophageal sphincter and allow stomach contents to reflux back into the throat. In addition, some medications used to treat asthma can exacerbate reflux symptoms. Although occasional heartburn is normal, frequent heartburn signifies your esophagus is damaged. In these patients, the lower esophageal sphincter does not close correctly, allowing stomach acid to back up and erode the esophagus over time.
They Can Diagnose And Treat Sinus Infections.
The first step in treating sinus infections is to identify the cause of the problem. For example, if you suspect a virus causes your condition, your ENT doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. In severe cases, you may have to take several courses of antibiotics. Other treatments may include allergy shots or decongestants. Sometimes, a doctor may recommend surgery to remove a nasal blockage.
Symptoms of sinusitis can include nasal congestion, nasal swelling, and headache. Some patients also experience changes in vision or confusion. These symptoms indicate a bacterial sinus infection.
They Can Treat Ear Infections.
If you or a loved one suffers from frequent ear infections, it is important to see an ENT for a proper diagnosis. Ear infections can cause ear pain and muffled hearing and can even lead to a fever. Usually, a tube is inserted into the middle ear to drain fluids, allowing air to enter. However, sometimes infections are severe enough that the eardrum may rupture. A physician can diagnose and treat the infection with antibiotics or other measures.
If ear infections are chronic, an ENT may recommend ear tubes. An ENT will make a small incision in the eardrum and insert a tube to allow the trapped fluid to drain out.
They Can Treat Sinusitis.
An ENT doctor can treat sinusitis by using various techniques and medications. Most episodes of sinusitis will clear up on their own in two to three weeks, but severe cases can last months or even years. An ENT doctor will ask about your symptoms and perform a physical exam. They will also perform a nasal swab to determine your type of bacteria. If the infection is chronic, an ENT will prescribe antibiotics to help relieve your symptoms.
Sinusitis is a common condition that causes the lining of your sinuses to swell and prevent mucus from draining out. As a result, it can cause severe pain and difficulty breathing. Sinusitis is typically caused by a virus but may also be caused by a bacterial infection.