3 Reasons to See an ENT
At what point is it time to move on from your primary care physician and seek more specialized attention from an Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor? Of course, that is something you’ll want to discuss with your primary doctor regarding your individual case, but in general, here are 3 reasons you or your child may need to visit an ENT.
1 – Recurring ear infections
As we recently discussed here on the blog, otitis media – middle ear infections – are one of the most common illnesses that bring children into the doctors’ office. While ear infections are fairly common, when they happen every time you or your child get a cold it’s time to take a deeper look.
In general, if you or your child experiences more than 3 ear infections in a 6 month period, it’s time to see the ENT.
2 – Recurring sinus infections
Sinus infections, or sinusitis, is a bacterial infection of the sinus cavities, causing pain, pressure, difficulty breathing, a runny or stuffy nose, and post-nasal drip into the throat.
While sinusitis is an extremely common health problem, when it becomes a chronic problem— recurring every time you get a cold— or persistent, lasting several weeks, it’s time to see an ENT for a closer look at what is going on.
3 – Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
The post-nasal drip from a common cold, coughing from a cold or allergies, or even getting a little too enthusiastic singing and yelling at a concert or sporting event can leave you with a temporarily sore throat and scratchy or “lost” voice.
When this sore throat or hoarse, raspy voice persists well beyond a cold or days after that great concert, it’s time to talk to an ENT.
This is just a small sampling of reasons you might need to see an ENT. In general, if you have a problem that involves your ears, nose, or throat that persists beyond what you or your primary care physician feels is “normal,” you should see an ENT as soon as possible. Leaving persistent symptoms unchecked can lead to permanent damage. Call us for an appointment today.
