When something feels off with your ears, nose or throat, an ENT specialist—also known as an otolaryngologist—is the doctor to see. Approximately 27 million people in the U.S. visit an otolaryngologist each year. These specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, from chronic sinus infections to ear infections. If you’re preparing for your first ENT appointment, knowing what to expect can help ease your nerves.
What Happens When I Arrive at an ENT Office?
When you arrive, you’ll check in at the front desk and complete some paperwork. If you’re a new patient, the paperwork will likely ask the following:
- Name
- Address
- Workplace
- Emergency contact
- Insurance
- Known medical conditions
- Medications you’re taking
- Symptoms you’re having
What Happens During My ENT Appointment?
During an ENT exam, your specialist will ask about your symptoms, medical history and any medications you’re taking. Next, they’ll conduct a physical exam. Depending on your symptoms, the ENT specialist might check one or more of the following areas:
- Ears. Using an otoscope, they’ll look into your ears for signs of infection, wax buildup or eardrum damage. If you have muffled hearing, they may also conduct a hearing test.
- Nose. They will use a small light or camera to check for blockages, swelling or other abnormalities in the nasal passages.
- Throat. They will look inside your mouth and throat for signs of infections, lumps or issues with the tonsils.
- Neck and lymph nodes. They may feel around your neck to check for swollen lymph nodes or other irregularities.
If your symptoms point to something more specific, the ENT provider might recommend additional tests, including:
- Hearing test
- Tympanogram to measure eardrum mobility
- Nasal endoscopy to see deep inside your nasal passages
- Allergy testing
After they’ve pinpointed the cause of your symptoms, your ENT specialist will find the best treatment path forward. For example, if a pet dander allergy is causing your symptoms, they might recommend you take medication before heading to Lucky Tails Rescue. On the other hand, if you get frequent sinus infections, they might recommend a Balloon Sinuplasty or Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery.
Whether clearing up a stubborn sinus infection or diagnosing a more complex condition, an ENT specialist can make a big difference in your overall health. If you’ve been dealing with ongoing discomfort in your ears, nose or throat, contact ENT & Allergy Specialists – Ear Nose and Throat Physicians and Surgeons today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.