ENT Department: Conditions, Tests and When to Go
ENT, or otolaryngology, deals with the ears, nose, throat, head and neck. ENT specialists treat infections, hearing and balance problems, sinus disease and voice disorders.
What Does ENT Treat?
- Ear infections and hearing loss
- Sinusitis and nasal blockage
- Tonsillitis
- Dizziness and balance problems
- Voice and swallowing problems
- Head and neck lumps
Common Tests in ENT
- Ear examination (otoscopy)
- Hearing tests (audiometry)
- Nasal endoscopy
- CT of sinuses
- Laryngoscopy
When Should You See a ENT Specialist?
- Sudden hearing loss (urgent)
- Ear discharge or pain with fever
- A neck lump lasting more than three weeks
- Hoarse voice for more than three weeks
Who Works in ENT?
ENT teams include ENT surgeons, audiologists and speech therapists.
Patient Tip
Do not put cotton buds or objects into the ear canal.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
- Write down your symptoms, when they started and what makes them better or worse.
- Bring a list of all medicines and supplements, with doses.
- Carry previous reports, scans and discharge summaries.
- Note your questions in advance and, if possible, bring a family member.
Questions to Ask Your ENT Specialist
- What is the most likely cause of my symptoms, and what else could it be?
- Which tests do I need, and what will the results change?
- What are the benefits and risks of each treatment option, including doing nothing?
- Which warning signs mean I should return urgently?
Getting Referred
In Pakistan and many other countries, the usual route to a ENT specialist is through a family physician or general practitioner, who can start tests and write a referral. Large teaching hospitals and specialist centres also run outpatient clinics. In an emergency, go straight to the nearest emergency department.
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This ENT department guide is educational and based on public information from WHO, CDC, NIH and NHS. It does not replace advice from a qualified clinician. Explore all specialties in our medical departments directory.