Otorhinolaryngology is the branch of medicine that studies and treats disorders of the ear, nose, throat (pharynx), and larynx.
This specialty includes the diagnosis and management of:
Hearing loss
Tinnitus – a ringing or buzzing noise in the ears not caused by external sound
Vertigo – a false sensation of spinning or movement of the body or surroundings
Allergies
Sinusitis – inflammation of the paranasal sinuses
Nasal polyps
Deviated nasal septum
Tonsillitis – inflammation of the tonsils
Sleep apnea – a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops during sleep
Voice disorders
Head and neck tumors
ENT disorders are among the most common health problems and are often the result of seasonal infections such as colds, bronchitis, or flu. However, they can also develop due to bacterial or viral infections, trauma, and may present as acute or chronic conditions.
Common ENT conditions include:
Nasal disorders:
Rhinitis – inflammation of the nasal mucosa
Sinusitis
Deviated nasal septum
Nasal polyps
Ear disorders:
External and middle ear infections
Eustachian tube dysfunction – fluid accumulation in the middle ear
Exudative otitis media – ear fullness and hearing loss
Auditory nerve neuritis
Throat disorders:
Pharyngitis – acute sore throat
Laryngitis – inflammation of the voice box (larynx)
Tonsillitis
Vocal cord tumors
The ENT specialist (otorhinolaryngologist) makes a diagnosis based on the patient's symptoms and medical history, and may order laboratory tests such as blood work or bacteriological cultures to identify the cause of infection and determine the most effective treatment.