Ear, Nose, Throat Services
Otolaryngology Care
Otolaryngology is a medical specialty focused on diseases and conditions of the ears, nose, and throat (ENT). While the technical term for these specialists is otolaryngologist, people generally refer to them as ENTs. Otolaryngology is a complex field that encompasses some of our most vital functions: hearing, smell, taste, balance, and breathing. Surgery on the fragile, interconnected tissues of the head and neck, which are close to the brain and important nerves, can take subspecialty training. Otolaryngology encompasses these areas:
- General Otolaryngology: ENTs diagnose and treat common hearing and balance conditions such as ear and sinus infections, sleep apnea, tinnitus, nerve pain, facial/cranial nerve disorders, hearing loss, balance disorders and dizziness. ENTs also treat allergies, sinusitis, polyps, nasal obstruction, deviated septum, and smell and taste disorders.
- Endocrine Surgery: An ENT who performs endocrine surgery has special training in procedures on the thyroid, parathyroids, and head and neck. This specialist often collaborates with other doctors such as an endocrinologists or oncologists.
- Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery: These specialists perform surgery for cleft palate, drooping eyelids, ear deformities, facial paralysis, facial disfigurement due to trauma, head and neck cancer reconstruction, and revisions of facial cosmetic surgery.
- Cochlear Implant: Some ENTs specialize in surgically implanting this electronic device to improve hearing. It can be an option for people with severe hearing loss from inner-ear damage.
- Head & Neck Surgery: ENTs specializing in this area treat a variety of conditions, from head and neck cancers to issues affecting the tonsils, jaws, and upper spine.
- Laryngology: Experts in this subspecialty focus on voice disorders, airway and swallowing issues, throat cancer, and some upper gastroenterology issues.
- Neurotology: In this discipline, specialists use a combination of otolaryngology and neurology, focusing on neurological disorders of the balance and auditory systems.
- Pediatric Otolaryngology: These physicians focus on the medical and surgical treatment of ear, nose, and throat diseases specifically in children.
Audiologists
If an ENT diagnoses you with hearing loss, your next step will be to see an audiologist. Audiologists are not physicians. They are licensed healthcare professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disorders. A licensed audiologist has completed a higher degree in audiology, usually an AuD. These professionals have extensive training in sound reproduction and can work with patients to select, fit, and adjust hearing aids.
