Otolaryngology is a medical specialty focused on the ears, nose and throat. Often referred to as ENTs, doctors in this field deal with problems that affect the balance system, the ears, nasal cavities, the skull base and the surrounding structures of the head and neck. A otolaryngologist can also help patients who are experiencing issues with their voice and swallowing, and can also perform surgical procedures on these areas of the face and neck.
A otolaryngologist may be needed to treat conditions like ear infections, nose and sinus issues, hearing loss, facial or cranial problems or disorders of the larynx (voice box). ENTs can also diagnose and treat sleep apnea, a condition in which people stop breathing hundreds of times at night without waking up.
In order to become a board-certified otolaryngologist, doctors must undergo up to 15 years of college and post-graduate training, including medical school. Some go on to complete a one or two-year fellowship. After this, they must take a series of examinations to be certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology.
During their training, otolaryngologists will learn how to plan and carry out surgery on benign tumors and head and neck cancers. They will also learn how to use reconstructive techniques for these patients. In addition, otolaryngologists will train in the anatomy and function of the ears, nose, larynx, head and neck structures.
The most common procedures performed by otolaryngologists are adenoidectomies, tonsillectomies and removing infected portions of the temporal bones. These doctors also run hearing tests and can determine the reasons for a patient’s loss of hearing. They can also help with other health conditions that include vertigo and dizziness, and issues with the pharynx and throat.
Some otolaryngologists focus on the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric ear, nose and throat problems. Others choose to specialize in rhinology, which deals with the nose and sinuses, or laryngology, which involves problems of the voice box. Still other otolaryngologists choose to spend a year or so gaining specialized training in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, which allows them to fix issues such as drooping eyelids and chins.
Other types of treatments that otolaryngologists offer include the insertion of prosthetic devices in patients with facial paralysis, and the management of chronic head and neck pain.부산수면다원검사 They will also work with patients who have allergies to the ears, nose and throat, as well as the upper respiratory tract. These doctors will also address snoring and sleep apnea in patients, as well as treat the effects of the side effects of medications. Lastly, they will help patients who are having trouble swallowing due to damage or birth defects of the mouth and throat. Those who are experiencing hoarseness or other voice and swallowing difficulties should see an otolaryngologist immediately. If left untreated, these problems can worsen over time.부산이비인후과