ENT (Otolaryngology)
أنف وأذن وحنجرة
About ENT (Otolaryngology)
ENT (otolaryngology) is the medical specialty that focuses on the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. ENT specialists — also called otolaryngologists — are trained in both the medical and surgical treatment of these areas. (NIDCD (NIH) — Otolaryngologist)
Because these areas connect to hearing, balance, breathing, smell, taste, and speech, ENT specialists commonly evaluate conditions affecting the ears (such as infections, tinnitus, and balance problems), the nose and sinuses (such as allergies, sinusitis, and a deviated septum), and the throat (such as tonsil problems), as well as sleep-related breathing issues like sleep apnea. (AAO-HNS / ENT Health — What's an ENT?)
Many people first see a family doctor for these symptoms, who may then refer them to an ENT specialist for further evaluation or treatment. (Cleveland Clinic — Otolaryngologist: What They Do & When To See One)
Common Conditions
ENT (Otolaryngology) specialists treat a wide range of related conditions.
Ear
Nose & Sinuses
Common Symptoms
Symptoms can have several possible causes and do not, on their own, establish a diagnosis.
ENT (Otolaryngology): When Should You See a Specialist?
Consider seeing an ENT specialist if you have ear, nose, or throat symptoms that are persistent, recurrent, or not improving with initial treatment — or if a doctor has referred you for further evaluation. Common reasons people see an ENT specialist include:
- Ongoing or recurring ear infections, ear pain, or changes in hearing
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or balance problems
- Sinus pressure, congestion, or allergy symptoms that don't improve
- A nose that feels persistently blocked on one side
- Frequent or severe sore throats and tonsil infections
- Loud snoring or suspected sleep apnea
(Cleveland Clinic — Otolaryngologist: What They Do & When To See One)
Services & Tests
Tests and services commonly used for care in this specialty.
Doctors in ENT (Otolaryngology)
Find experienced doctors in this specialty.
Clinics & Hospitals
Medical centers and hospitals offering services related to this specialty.
Articles about ENT (Otolaryngology)
Read the latest articles and expert information.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus — ringing or buzzing in the ears with no outside source — is extremely common and, while it can't always be cured, is rarely a sign of something dangerous.
Dizziness
'Dizziness' actually covers several distinct sensations with very different causes — describing exactly what you feel is often the key to figuring out why.
Bronchitis
A lingering cough after a cold is often acute bronchitis — usually viral, not needing antibiotics, but sometimes confused with pneumonia when symptoms are severe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an ENT specialist treat?
ENT specialists (otolaryngologists) diagnose and treat conditions affecting the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck — including ear infections and hearing or balance problems, sinus and allergy conditions, a deviated septum, tonsil and throat problems, and sleep-related breathing issues such as sleep apnea.
(AAO-HNS / ENT Health — What's an ENT?; NIDCD (NIH) — Otolaryngologist)
When should I see an ENT doctor?
It's reasonable to see an ENT specialist when ear, nose, or throat symptoms are persistent, recurrent, or don't improve with initial treatment, or when your doctor refers you for further evaluation.
(Cleveland Clinic — Otolaryngologist: What They Do & When To See One)
Can an ENT specialist help with sinus problems?
Yes. Sinus and nasal conditions — including sinusitis and allergic rhinitis — are a core part of ENT care, sometimes called rhinology.
(AAO-HNS / ENT Health — What's an ENT?)
Does an ENT treat a deviated septum?
Yes. A deviated septum is evaluated and, when needed, surgically corrected (septoplasty) by an ENT specialist.
(AAO-HNS / ENT Health — What's an ENT?)
Do ENT specialists treat sleep apnea and snoring?
Yes. Because the airway passes through the nose and throat, ENT specialists are commonly involved in evaluating snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.
(AAO-HNS / ENT Health — What's an ENT?; Cleveland Clinic — Otolaryngologist: What They Do & When To See One)
Do I need a referral to see an ENT specialist?
Many people see their family doctor first, who can evaluate initial symptoms and refer them to an ENT specialist if needed — though this varies by clinic and insurance.
(Cleveland Clinic — Otolaryngologist: What They Do & When To See One)