Specialty Guides
When to See an ENT Doctor
Ear, nose, throat, head, and neck issues that benefit from a specialist consultation.
What an ENT treats
Otolaryngologists (ENTs) treat conditions of the ear, nose, throat, sinuses, larynx, and head & neck — from chronic sinusitis to hearing loss to head & neck cancer. Many also perform surgery for sleep apnea, deviated septum, and tonsil/adenoid removal.
Reasons to see an ENT
- Sinus infections more than 3–4 times a year
- Persistent hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or vertigo
- Chronic nasal congestion or trouble breathing through the nose
- Hoarseness or a lump in the neck lasting 2+ weeks
- Recurrent sore throats or tonsillitis
- Suspected sleep apnea or loud snoring with daytime fatigue
- Ear pain not responding to primary care treatment
When it's urgent
Sudden hearing loss (especially on one side), severe dizziness with neurologic symptoms, or a rapidly growing neck mass should be evaluated within days — call the ENT's office and explain it's urgent.
What to expect
First visits usually include a focused exam with specialized scopes (the long flexible scope into the nose is uncomfortable but quick). Bring any past imaging or audiograms.