When to See an ENT Specialist: 7 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Coping with different types of health issues affecting the throat, nose, and ear is quite commonplace, more so for people living in thriving urban regions in Singapore. The main reasons often are urban pollution, high noise, and humid climate, etc. Initially, you may overlook symptoms affecting such organs, hoping they will go away normally. In some cases, however, such health issues become recurring, with symptoms becoming more severe. 

This is when you should seek expert clinical intervention. Thankfully, in Singapore, you will find several ENT clinics and expert doctors with the required expertise in this discipline. An ENT specialist treats health conditions and infections affecting the neck, throat, ear, and nose. A timely checkup by a qualified ENT doctor will help you avoid developing health complications affecting those vital organs. 

When should you visit an ENT specialist?

You should book an appointment with a reputed ENT clinic or doctor in Singapore when you experience health conditions affecting your ear, throat and nose. 

• Hearing deficit and persistent ear pain, inflammation

If you experience recurring ear pain, inflammation and hearing problems, do not overlook it. The reasons may include excess earwax build-up, ear infections, hearing loss caused by exposure to high noise levels, and eardrum damage, among others. You should look for an ENT clinic when you experience one or more of these symptoms alongside dizziness. 

• Chronic nasal congestion

Nasal blockage can be caused by mild fever or cold, but there can be other underlying reasons, too. Instances of people developing conditions like allergic rhinitis and chronic sinusitis are not uncommon. In rare cases, doctors diagnose nasal growths blocking airflow. You should look for an ENT doctor when there is reduced sense of smell, breathing problems, and recurring sinus infections with facial pain. 

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• Frequent sore throat

Catching a cold or fever, followed by a sore throat, is quite commonplace, more so in humid climate regions. The reasons may include acid reflux and bacterial infections. Book an appointment with a suitable ENT clinic if you find the sore throat symptoms persisting for weeks. Additionally, you may experience swallowing problems and lumps in the throat. 

• Sleep apnea and breathing issues

Breathing problems during sleep you should not overlook. It can be caused by enlarged tonsils and sinus issues. However, the root cause can also be a condition known as obstructive sleep apnea. Loud snoring and choking during sleeping are two prominent symptoms in this regard that require an ENT visit. 

Treatments offered by ENT specialists

When you develop any of the health conditions affecting your throat, ear or nose, an ENT specialist will examine the organs carefully. Thereafter, he/she may recommend specific tests and analyze your medical history. Upon diagnosis, the ENT specialist will offer medications, specific therapies and dietary changes. In extreme cases, performing specialized surgeries may be necessary. 

Summing it up

Minor ear, throat or nose problems may dissipate, or you can use natural remedies. However, recurring infections affecting these organs, tonsil and sinus issues and eating difficulties hint at underlying conditions. Choose an ENT clinic with a solid reputation, required industry affiliation and a majority of positive client reviews.