Signs You Should Visit an ENT

When cold and flu-like symptoms arise, you may be suffering from issues involving the ear, nose, or throat. When these symptoms persist, it can be frustrating for you. Is it time to go back to your primary care physician? Or could this mean a bit more? When is it time to see a specialist? Are there signs that mean it’s time to see an ENT? Our skilled and caring staff at Expert ENT in Fort Worth, Texas, make it their goal to help you decide if it’s time to make an appointment.

What does an ENT treat?

An ENT is a specialist who treats patients with conditions of the ear, nose, or throat. Many conditions fall into this category. Did you also know that the technical word for ENT is otolaryngologist?

Some conditions of the ears, nose, or throat may be treatable by a primary care physician, but some require an examination from an otolaryngologist. Here are some tips and guidelines for knowing when to make an appointment with your ENT.

Hearing Loss or Ongoing Ear Issues

Temporary hearing loss can occur from time to time. Sometimes, when our ears pop or when we have sinus pressure, temporary hearing loss can occur. However, when this type of hearing loss persists with no improvement, it may indicate that it’s time to see an ear, nose, and throat specialist. Chronic hearing loss may mean that there is a deeper underlying problem in the ear, whether it’s an obstruction (blockage), an infection, or something else.

Chronic Sinus Pain

When sinus pain continues, it may be a sign that you need to see an ENT. What is sinus pain, exactly? Any pain to the face, jaw, or ear may mean that you are suffering from sinus pain. Sinus pain can masquerade itself as a toothache or a headache.

Some signs of sinus pain may be:

Headache (that may intensify when leaning over)
Face Pain
Jaw Pain
Toothache
Pressure of the Face

Ongoing congestion of the nasal passages

Are you waking up with a runny or stuffed-up nose? This could mean that you have congestion of the nasal passages. Some signs of ongoing congestion may include but are not limited to, runny nose, dripping nose, frequent nose blowing, or sneezing.

Persistent or Severe Sore Throats

A persistent sore throat may be another sign that it’s time to see an ENT. Sore throats are a very common ailment, so you might not need to call the ENT with the first signs of a sore throat. However, a persistent sore throat (lasting more than a week) that is severe (leaving you unable to swallow without pain or discomfort) may indicate infection in the throat or infection in the nasal passages that has begun to drain into the throat.

Issues with Balance or Dizziness

Ear infections, particularly when they last a long time, can throw off the body’s equilibrium. Sometimes, the infection causes fluid to build up in the ear, which can lead to dizziness.

Snoring or Sleep Apnea

Sleep breathing is very different from breathing when we are awake. Some issues may arise while an individual is sleeping that don’t occur during the day as breathing becomes more automatic and less controlled. When snoring becomes abnormally loud or wheezing occurs, it may be time to make an appointment with an ENT.

Persistent Hoarseness

If your voice is hoarse and the hoarseness doesn’t go away after a considerable amount of time, you may have laryngitis. Laryngitis is defined as an inflammation of the larynx or vocal cords. You might also experience pain when vocalizing, and this can be assessed and treated by an Expert ENT at our clinic.

Fever that Lasts More Than 3 Days

If a fever persists, and other symptoms of the nose or sinuses accompany it, you may want to see an ENT. Acute sinusitis may cause a persistent fever, and as could any infection of the ear, nose, or throat.

Ringing of the Ears

If there is constant ringing in the ears, this may be a sign of a serious condition known as tinnitus. Tinnitus requires attention. If you are suffering from tinnitus, it is time to schedule an appointment with a licensed ENT specialist. This specialist can help diagnose the issue and recommend a treatment plan.

Expert ENT

If you live in the Fort Worth area and it has been determined that an ENT’s advice is necessary, Dr. John L. Fewins, MD, FACS at Expert ENT, can help. Dr. Fewins is the expert specialist you need to treat any issues with the ear, nose, or throat. From his years of experience to the glowing testimonials he has received, Dr. Fewins is the clear choice for ear, nose, and throat problems. A member of the Texas Association and American Academy of Otolaryngology for Head and Neck Surgery, as well as a member of the Texas Medical Association, Dr. Fewins is undoubtedly qualified to treat all issues of the ears, nose, and throat. Not only that, he is fluent in English and Spanish and is a down-to-earth family man who cares for his patients as he would his own family. For more information, visit our website today. Or contact us to schedule an appointment.