When to See an ENT Doctor

When to See an ENT Doctor

Need an ENT doctor? Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctors, also known as otolaryngologists, are physicians who specialize in the enttreatment of disorders and diseases that affect the ear, nose, and throat. Dr. Jesse Tan and Dr. Jesus Tan at Tan Head and Neck Center in Long Beach, CA, offer treatments for ear, nose and throat problems. Here are the top reasons to see an ENT doctor.

1. You have hearing loss.

Hearing impairment, also known as hearing loss, is a partial or total inability to hear. Hearing loss can have a big impact on your life, from your relationships to your career and emotional well-being. If you have a hearing impairment, you should be evaluated by a Long Beach ENT doctor as soon as possible. Work with your ENT doctor to find the best combination of hearing devices and communication strategies.

2. You have sleep apnea.

Is sleep apnea affecting you? Sleep apnea is a serious, potentially life-threatening sleep disorder that occurs when you have shallow breaths or pauses in breathing while you sleep. ENTs offer treatments for sleep apnea. Aside from poor sleep, people who don’t get their sleep apnea treated face a higher risk of strokes, high blood pressure, heart attacks, and other health issues.

3. You have sinusitis.

Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses resulting in symptoms. The symptoms of sinusitis typically include pain, pressure in the face, and a stuffy or a runny nose. Other common symptoms of sinusitis include fever, bad breath, coughing, reduced sense of smell or taste, headache, and bad breath. ENT doctors have received the proper training and education needed to treat sinusitis. 

ENT doctors are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of sinusitis. If your ENT doctor thinks a bacterial infection is to blame, they may prescribe antibiotics. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe inhaled steroids to reduce swelling in the sinus membranes. Your Long Beach, CA ENT doctor may prescribe decongestants to reduce the amount of mucus in your sinuses. Occasionally, if you have sinusitis that keeps coming back, an operation may be the best choice.

4. You have an ear infection.

If you have an ear infection, it's time to see an ENT. Ear infections can develop in children and adults. Ear infections occur when fluid becomes trapped in the middle ear. Ear infections are caused by viruses and bacteria. The symptoms of an ear infection may include an earache, difficulty hearing, ear discharge, or fever. An ENT doctor can provide all the relief you need with treatment.

5. You have head or neck cancer.

Head and neck cancer is a group of cancers that start near or in your throat, voice box, sinuses, nose, or mouth. Usually, it begins in the cells that line the surfaces of these body parts. ENTs diagnose, evaluate, and treat head and neck cancer. Overall, the main treatment options are radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, and targeted therapy. Advancements in robotic head and neck surgery means smaller incisions, less scarring and more efficient procedures as compared to traditional surgery.

Get relief today. Call Tan Head and Neck Center at (562) 988-8818 now to schedule an appointment in Long Beach, CA. Get your life back on track by receiving the best treatment available. We want you to live the best life possible!