Medical Definition of Otolaryngologist

Medical Definition of Otolaryngologist

Learn More About What an Otolaryngologist Does

Otolaryngologists are physicians trained in diagnosis, as well as the medical and surgical care, of diseases relating to the head and neck. You may also find them referred to as ear, nose, and throat doctors. To be certified as an otolaryngologist, a medical professional must have completed four years of medical school and five years of head and neck surgical and medical residency training. An otolaryngologist is also expected to have passed the American Board of Otolaryngology examination.

What Do Otolaryngologists Treat?

Otolaryngologists treat a wide range of conditions that relate to the neck and head system. This includes ear issues, such as pain and infections, itchiness, hearing loss, burning sensation, leaking, deafness, tinnitus, and swimmers' ear. They also treat any issues that affect the nose, including sinusitis, allergies, and obstructions. Throat issues they treat include pain or difficulty swallowing, larynx infections, mouth or throat cancer, tonsillitis, and more. Your ear, neck, and throat doctor may also treat general head and neck pain caused by infection, tumors, or cranial nerve disorders.

Reasons to See an Otolaryngologist

Many symptoms of ear, neck, and throat problems are caused by mild allergies and illnesses that are likely to go away on their own with little to no treatment. However, you may need to go see an otolaryngologist if symptoms persist or seem to get worse over time. An E.N.T doctor will be able to access the situation, correctly diagnose the condition, and recommend the appropriate treatment. Serious conditions like infections, laryngitis, tonsillitis, vertigo, and sleep apnea need to be treated by a certified otolaryngologist.

What Kind of Tests Does an Otolaryngologist Perform?

To correctly diagnose your condition(s), an otolaryngologist may recommend or perform the following tests, depending on the symptoms you’re showing. This includes:

• A complete ear, neck, and throat examination
• Audiometric testing for a patient suffering from hearing loss, ringing, and balance issues
• Nasal endoscopy for patients with sinus issues and allergy complaints
• Allergy testing

Schedule a Consultation With Our Otolaryngologist

Are you experiencing any issues with your ear, nose, throat, and neck? You should schedule a consultation with our otolaryngologists at Light E.N.T. in Boynton Beach. Call now to schedule an appointment with our compassionate doctors.