There are many ENT problems, each with their own sets of symptoms and signs. Here are a few of the most common ENT problems and their symptoms so you know when you need to go to an ENT specialist.
Ear infections are considered to be the most common ENT problem. They are caused when germs accumulate in the inner ear. A small tube—known as the Eustachian tube—inside the ear keeps the ear free of germs by draining into the rear of our throats. In cases where this tube is smaller than usual or gets clogged with mucus and fluid, germs accumulate and enter the ear. This results in an ear infection.
Symptoms Of Ear Infection
These are the symptoms of an ear infection.
- Feeling pressure and pain inside the ear
- Fever or upper-respiratory infection
- Hearing difficulty
- Difficulty in balancing
- Discharge of fluid from the ear
Infants and children are more prone to ear infections. Back in 2009, about nine million children were reported to have ear infections. Ear infections can be hard to identify in children, however, look for these signs in your child to know if they’re having trouble with their ear.
- They’re constantly pulling on their ears
- Excessive fussiness
- They’re not responding to loud noises or their name
- Unusual eating patterns
The human skull is comprised of hollow spaces around the nose and eyes. Germs can accumulate in these hollow spaces and cause inflammation, resulting in pain and pressure.
Acute sinusitis can occur after the onslaught of the common cold, whereas, chronic sinusitis is a disorder that occurs due to untreated allergies. It may also be caused by medical conditions like bronchial asthma.
Symptoms Of Sinusitis
These are a few common symptoms of sinusitis.
- Discharge from the nose
Dysphagia is characterized by having trouble swallowing. People of all ages can get affected with this. However, if the problem persists, consult a doctor immediately.
Dysphagia can occur due to these conditions.
- Common cold
- Poor teeth
- Poor-fitting dentures
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Surgery of the neck or esophagus
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which patients experience brief periods of breathlessness during sleep. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, approximately 22 million people have sleep apnea in America.
Sleep apnea can occur because of these conditions.
- Enlarged tonsils
- Use of sedatives before sleeping
Symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Frequently waking up during the night
- Mood swings
- Headaches after waking up
If you experience any of these disorders, visit your doctor to discuss your symptoms so they can advise you treatment.