With the different types of ears, nose, and throat (ENT) disorders, it is vital to understand the specific conditions you must schedule a quick appointment. Keep in mind that symptoms can often range from mild to severe. However, mild symptoms might often prove to be something serious. Therefore, we have compiled a list of the most common conditions for which you should check into an otolaryngology clinic.
Ear Infections
Ear infection issues are the most common cases treated by ENT experts all around the world. Ear infections occur when fluid gets trapped inside the ears leading to microbial growth. The eustachian tube’s ear canal is very narrow, and any fluid, mucus, or bacterial growth can lead to clogging and severe infections. Here are some of the common symptoms of ear infections.
- Pain
- Fever
- Balance loss
- Hearing difficulty
- Nausea
- Fluid discharge
Detection of ear infections in children often proves to be complicated. You need to watch out for signs of pulling/tugging at the ears, an increase in fussiness during bedtime, and a failure to respond to sound/name.
Strep throat
Strep throat is caused by Streptococci infection. This causes the sore throat syndrome minus the runny nose. This makes it easy to differentiate from the common flu. Here are some of the common symptoms of strep throat.
- Sore throat
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Painful tonsils
- Lymph node enlargement
- Fever
- Body aches
Sinusitis
When microbes grow and multiply within the hollow recesses of the skull around the eyes and nose, it leads to a severe infection. This condition is called sinusitis and often leads to painful inflammation. Sinusitis usually occurs in conjunction with the common cold, so the chances of developing the condition during the winter months are incredibly high. Additionally, if you are suffering from chronic allergy for over 12-weeks, you are also susceptible to sinus infections. Here are some of the common symptoms of sinusitis.
- Headaches
- Nasal discharge
- Congestion
- Cough
- Toothache
- Fatigue
- Fever
Keep in mind sinusitis is a severe condition and, if left untreated, can lead to complications. Therefore, if you are experiencing these symptoms, please contact to local ENT specialist.
Sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a unique disorder that can have a dreadful effect on the quality of life. It is characterized by the inability to breathe during night-time sleep. Patients suffering from sleep apnea stop breathing from time to time during their sleep. The common symptoms include.
- Frequent waking up
- Poor quality sleep and rest
- Extreme drowsiness
- Mood and behavior changes
- Acute depression
- Headaches
Individuals suffering from sleep apnea may develop further complications like snoring, gasping, and choking during sleep. Keep in mind that if you are obese, have a habit of consuming sedatives before bedtime, or have enlarged tonsils, you are susceptible to sleep apnea. OSA or obstructive sleep apnea is something that more commonly affects middle-aged men and women. It can cause severe health complications if left untreated.
If you or your loved one is experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, then visit your local ENT clinic immediately and without fail.
