Determine If You Need to See a Specialist
When a general practitioner cannot resolve or identify your ear, nose or throat-related issue, they will typically refer you to an otolaryngologist/ENT.
ENT doctors are specialists in both medical and surgical treatment for all ear, nose and throat conditions, as well as conditions that affect the head and neck.
Below is a handy self-screener that can help you determine if you should see an ENT.
- Are you experiencing sudden or gradual hearing loss?
- Do you have frequent ear wax build-up that may need to be ‘professionally cleaned?’
- Are you getting frequent ear, sinus or tonsil infections?
- Do you have trouble breathing out of your nose on one side, stuffiness on both sides at night or nasal blockage during exercise?
- Have you experienced four or more sinus infections in the past year?
- Do you have any sores in your mouth or throat that won’t go away?
- Do you experience frequent hoarseness or voice issues?
- Have you noticed a lump or swelling in your neck lasting more than four weeks?
- Have you ever been told or suspected that you snore and/or stop breathing while you sleep?
- Are your nasal symptoms worse in the spring, summer and/or fall?
If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you might be experiencing an ear, nose or throat disorder.
What Are the Next Steps for Your ENT Visit?
1. Setup An Appointment
Contact us to schedule an appointment with an otolaryngology specialist. Our providers are Board-Certified Otolaryngologists. There are no MAs, RNs, PAs or NPs.
Our front office staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Visit our location page for direct contact information.
2. Prepare For Your Visit
Write down any questions you may have for your ENT and list your symptoms, when they occur and any treatments you have tried.
3. Set Your First-Time Visit Expectations
An otolaryngologist will ask you questions about your symptoms and typically examine your ears and nose, mouth and throat and feel the glands of your head and neck.
Further testing, including flexible endoscopy, lab work or imaging, may be requested before a diagnosis is determined.
The symptoms of ENT disorders often overlap. We use a step-by-step approach to determine the cause of your symptoms so we can recommend the right treatment for you. Take the first step toward ear, nose and throat relief. Schedule an appointment today.