What is an otolaryngologist?
An otolaryngologist is trained to perform surgical and medical treatment of patients who suffer from ear, nose, or throat (ENT) diseases and related structures within the head and neck area.
What conditions do otolaryngologists treat?
Otolaryngologists have to treat several different conditions within the ear, nose, and throat area. Let’s have a look at each body part separately:
- The ear: Ear disorders include hearing loss, infections, noise (tinnitus), or nerve pain (facial and cranial). Furthermore, balance or congenital disorders are conditions that are treated by the otolaryngologist.
- The nose: One of the most common infections is a sinus infection. They can become chronic and fall under the expertise of an otolaryngologist. Breathing freely while sleeping, handling allergies and the sense of smell is a big part of the treatment. The otolaryngologist takes care of the nasal cavity and airways.
- The throat: The vital area includes the ability to communicate (speech) and to eat and is checked on by the doctor. Furthermore, otolaryngologists treat diseases of the larynx (voice box), the upper aero-digestive tract, or the esophagus. A swollen throat also falls into the expertise.
Otolaryngologists are trained in seven specialty areas – pediatric otolaryngology (children), otology/neurology (ears, balance, tinnitus), allergy, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, head and neck, laryngologist (throat), and rhinology (nose). Some doctors limit their expertise to one of those specialties.
Looking for an otolaryngologist in the Memphis area?
Have a question about ENT diseases or need to want to speak to an otolaryngologist? call the Shea Clinic today to set up an appointment with our experts. Call now locally at 901-761-9720 or toll-free at 800-477-SHEA.