When Should You See an ENT Specialist? Common Ear, Nose, and Throat Issues

Many people dismiss ear, nose, and throat discomfort as minor irritations. However, ongoing symptoms may indicate underlying medical conditions requiring professional care. An ENT doctor at Mount Elizabeth can diagnose and treat disorders affecting these areas. Recognising symptoms early helps prevent complications and ensures prompt treatment.

Recurring Sinus Infections and Nasal Congestion

Blocked nasal passages, facial pain, and headaches often accompany chronic sinus infections. Over-the-counter medication offers temporary relief, but frequent infections indicate a deeper problem. Structural abnormalities like a deviated septum or nasal polyps contribute to persistent congestion. An ear, nose, or throat specialist assesses symptoms and recommends suitable interventions, such as medication, nasal irrigation, or minor surgical procedures.

Persistent congestion disrupts breathing, affects sleep quality, and leads to complications like sinusitis. Seeking professional assessment at an ENT clinic in Singapore ensures accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment. Severe cases require advanced procedures like endoscopic sinus surgery to restore normal airflow and alleviate discomfort.

Hearing Loss and Persistent Ear Infections

Hearing difficulties occur gradually or suddenly, affecting daily communication and quality of life. Exposure to loud noise, infections, and age-related changes contribute to auditory decline. Recurring ear infections cause discomfort and lead to complications like eardrum perforation or fluid accumulation behind the eardrum.

Symptoms such as muffled sounds, ringing in the ears, or difficulty understanding speech signal a need for professional evaluation. An ENT doctor at Mount Elizabeth performs hearing tests and examines the ear canal to determine the cause of hearing loss. Treatment options include hearing aids, medication, or surgical procedures like cochlear implants for severe cases.

Chronic Sore Throat and Hoarseness

Throat discomfort lasting more than two weeks warrants medical evaluation. Soreness or hoarseness often results from infections, acid reflux, or vocal strain. Persistent throat irritation may indicate more serious conditions like vocal cord nodules or even throat cancer.

A professional assessment identifies the underlying cause and determines the right course of action. Lifestyle modifications, voice therapy, or medication help alleviate symptoms. A specialist at an ENT clinic in Singapore may also perform laryngoscopy to examine the vocal cords and diagnose issues early.

Sleep Apnoea and Snoring Issues

Loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, and excessive daytime fatigue suggest obstructive sleep apnoea. This condition causes breathing interruptions due to airway blockage, leading to reduced oxygen levels and long-term health complications.

Ignoring sleep apnea increases the risk of heart disease, hypertension, and daytime drowsiness. An ear, nose and throat specialist conducts sleep studies and airway assessments to diagnose the condition. Treatment options include lifestyle adjustments, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, or surgical procedures to remove obstructions in the airway.

ALSO READ: The Importance of a Sleep Study: Unraveling Sleep Issues and Snoring

Swollen Tonsils and Frequent Tonsillitis

Recurring throat infections cause inflamed tonsils, leading to swallowing difficulties and fever. Enlarged tonsils obstruct airways, causing breathing difficulties, especially in children. Antibiotics treat mild cases, but frequent infections require further intervention.

An ENT doctor at Mount Elizabeth assesses tonsil health and recommends appropriate treatment. Severe cases necessitate tonsillectomy to prevent recurring infections and improve breathing. Seeking timely treatment ensures faster recovery and prevents complications like abscess formation.

Persistent Dizziness and Balance Disorders

Frequent dizziness, vertigo, or balance problems stem from inner ear disorders. Conditions like Meniere’s disease, vestibular neuritis, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) affect stability and coordination.

An ear, nose, and throat specialist evaluates symptoms using diagnostic tests to determine the cause. Treatment includes vestibular rehabilitation therapy, medication, or repositioning techniques like the Epley manoeuvre. Addressing balance disorders early minimises the risk of falls and enhances daily functioning.

Unexplained Nosebleeds and Nasal Growths

Occasional nosebleeds result from dry air or minor irritation, but frequent bleeding signals underlying medical conditions. Nasal growths, tumours, or blood vessel abnormalities contribute to persistent nosebleeds and require medical attention.

An ENT clinic in Singapore provides diagnostic imaging and nasal endoscopy to identify abnormalities. Treatment options include cauterisation, nasal sprays, or surgery to remove growths and restore nasal health.

Recognising symptoms early and seeking medical evaluation prevent complications and ensure effective treatment. An ear and nose throat specialist diagnoses and treats conditions affecting breathing, hearing, and overall well-being. 

Contact Dr. Dennis Chua for expert assessment and treatment at an ENT clinic in Singapore.

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