A constantly sore throat, an eternally blocked nose, repetitive otitis, or even a minimal loss of hearing… All these reasons can lead a person to make an appointment with Otolaryngologists in Bethlehem PA, more familiarly called ENT doctors. What is Otorhinolaryngology? This medical and surgical specialty concerns itself with the physiology and associated diseases that affect the ears, nose and throat (larynx and pharynx). They are interested in the treatment of the affections of an anatomical region between the base of the skull and the upper orifice of the thorax: infections, deafness, vertigo, tumors, surgery of tonsils, parotid glands and thyroid.
When should an ENT be seen? A consultation must be made rapidly when a series of discomforts occur that hinder daily life. They may include ear problems (persistent pain, hearing loss or clogging, wheezing, ringing in the ears), nose and sinus disorders (snoring, loss of smell, allergic symptoms), throat and larynx disorders (discomfort with swallowing, breathing, swelling) as well as presence of abnormal sizes and glands, dizziness or facial palsy. When to consult an ENT? After consultation with your general practitioner, you can visit an ENT. Except for certain pathologies already identified (things like deafness and cancer), it is not necessary to consult this specialist on a regular basis. Initially, it is the general practitioner or the Otolaryngologists in Bethlehem PA themselves who sets the pace of return visits. Otherwise, there is no routine examination to be performed as long as no particular symptoms have been identified.
Which people are most at risk? These are primarily smokers and abusive alcohol consumers. However, it is advisable to be monitored at regular intervals if you are exposed to occupational hazards such as exposure to intense noise or hazardous dust. Also, some athletes, like divers, need to be watched closely. What does the first consultation at an ENT entail? The doctor will ask the patient about the personal and family history in order to identify cases of familial asthma or allergies. They will also ask if the patient drinks or smokes. He or she will also run down the list of issues bringing the patient into the office. They will then order tests to determine the cause of the issue. For more details, visit us today.
Follow us on Twitter for our latest updates!