An ENT doctor, or otolaryngologist, is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the ears, nose, and throat, as well as the head and neck region. They are trained to perform examinations, often using specialized equipment, to diagnose disorders and diseases of the head and neck. They can also perform head and neck surgeries, including surgeries on the ears, nose, and throat. ENTs deal with anything that has to do with the head, neck, and ears in adults and children, including:
- Ear infections
- Tonsillitis
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Sinusitis
- Nose bleeds
- Loss of smell
- Stuffy nose
- Unusual growths
- Sleep problems that involve breathing, such as snoring or sleep apnea
- Cancers of the head and neck
- Throat problems like acid reflux (or gastroesophageal reflux disease, GERD)
- Vocal problems
- Swallowing issues
- Balance problems
- Reconstructive plastic surgery after facial injury or surgery
- Cosmetic plastic surgeries of the face and neck
To become an ENT doctor, one must first get an undergraduate degree, followed by attending medical school for four years, and then completing a five-year residency program. During this program, they learn about otolaryngology from more experienced doctors. Finally, ENTs must pass the exam for their state to become a fully licensed doctor. Some ENTs have 1-2 years of training to specialize further in areas like neurology, sleep medicine, pediatrics, allergies, cosmetic surgery, reconstructive surgery, balance problems, cancers of the head and neck, vocal problems, swallowing issues, and sinus issues.
