You noticed persistent symptoms in your ears, nose or throat. After doing some research or talking about it to other people, you have heard about ENT specialists, but you are still wondering: should I consult one? What symptoms does an ENT doctor treat?
Learn when and why seeing our ENT specialist in Montreal can help you restore your health and quality of life.
ENT Doctors: What They Do
First, it is important to know that otolaryngologists mainly treat conditions affecting the ear (oto), nose (rhino), and throat (larynx). More broadly, they also treat various conditions affecting the neck and head.
To obtain this title, ENT specialists do a medical degree and then undertake a five-year residency training in otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery. They are therefore qualified to perform various treatments, including surgical and even cosmetic procedures. It is, in fact, a constantly evolving medical specialty.
The Main Reasons for Consulting an ENT Specialist
Ear Problems
Ears do much more than just allow you to hear they play a central role in your sense of balance. Several ear-related symptoms require a consultation with an ENT specialist:
- Tinnitus: Buzzing, whistling, clicking, or other persistent noises in the ear
- Vertigo and dizziness: Feelings of spinning or loss of balance
- Recurrent ear infections (especially in children) or persistent pain
- Discharge: Fluid or pus coming out of the ear
- Hearing problems: Loss of hearing, deafness, hypersensitivity, etc.
- Simple cosmetic surgery: Protruding ears, earlobe repair, etc.
Please note that it is possible to have a hearing test carried out by an ENT specialist: these tests are covered by the RAMQ. This allows you to obtain an initial assessment completely free of charge.
Depending on the cause of your hearing loss, you may be treated by an ENT specialist, or they may refer you to an audiologist.
Nose and Sinus Problems
Nasal and sinus conditions can seriously affect your daily life. Consult an ENT specialist if you have symptoms such as:
- Chronic sinusitis
- Respiratory allergies (allergic rhinitis, polyps)
- Nasal bleedings or other secretions
- Persistent or recurrent nasal obstruction
- Partial or total loss of smell (anosmia)
- Pain in the sinuses or nasal bridge
- Facial sensitivity, especially when bending
The ENT specialist will be able to identify the cause of your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Nasal problems may result from infections but also from structural problems that require surgery, or the presence of a tumour.
Throat and Voice Problems
The throat contains several organs related to voice, eating, and breathing. ENT specialists can help with each of these areas, particularly if you have symptoms such as:
- Persistent voice problems or changes
- Pain when swallowing
- Feeling of food getting stuck in your throat
- Coughing when swallowing
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Swelling of the salivary glands (between the ear and jaw)
- Lumps or swollen glands
- Bruxism (teeth grinding)
The presence of a lump or swollen lymph node, whether on the face, neck or trapezius muscles (shoulders), should not be taken lightly. These can be associated with cancer, and it is best to consult your ENT specialist promptly.
Sleep Disorders
Do you snore or wake up feeling tired, with headaches or daytime drowsiness? You may be suffering from sleep apnea. An ENT specialist can assess your sleep problems and help identify the cause, which is often related to airway obstruction. Treatment options include positive airway pressure therapy, orthotics, or even surgery.
Cosmetic Concerns: A Lesser-Known Expertise of ENT Specialists!
In addition to treating conditions that affect your health, ENT specialists can perform a number of cosmetic procedures. You can book an appointment at our clinic for procedures such as:
- Botulinum toxin injections (Botox)
- Filler injections
- Non-surgical rhinoplasty (to correct minor nasal imperfections)
- Kybella treatment to reduce fat under the chin
- Removal of moles, lipomas and cysts
When to See an ENT Specialist
Some people may wait a long time before deciding to seek medical advice. Sometimes, they hope that the symptoms will go away on their own. How do you know when to see an ENT specialist?
Generally, do not delay if you have symptoms that persist for more than two to three weeks or are getting worse. Even milder symptoms can be a sign of something more serious.
Some situations require urgent attention, particularly if you are having significant difficulty breathing or swallowing, or if your pain is too severe to be relieved with painkillers.
Whatever the problem, a quick diagnosis is often essential in order to prevent complications and implement appropriate treatment.
Take Care of Yourself
Have you recognized one or more of your symptoms? Are you experiencing something similar but unsure whether you should consult an ENT specialist? Whether your concerns relate to your health, well-being or appearance, our specialists can answer all your questions.
Contact us to make an appointment or ask any questions you may have: We will be happy to answer you and guide you if necessary! The Clinique ORL 1851 offers timely consultations to address your needs.
