Your primary care doctor is your go-to for most health concerns — from seasonal colds to checkups and everyday illnesses. They know your overall health best and can handle a wide range of issues. But sometimes, a problem involving your ears, nose, or throat needs a closer look from a provider with specialized training.
That’s when it’s time to see an ENT specialist (ear, nose, and throat doctor), also known as an otolaryngologist.
What does an ENT specialist do?
ENTs diagnose and treat medical conditions that affect the ears, nose, sinuses, throat, and neck — especially when symptoms are recurring, severe, or don’t respond to standard treatments.
Unlike primary care doctors, ENTs are also surgeons, which means they can perform procedures to correct structural problems or manage chronic conditions. For example, ENTs handle everything from recurring ear infections and sinus blockages to vocal cord issues and sleep apnea.
You might see an ENT after your primary care doctor recommends a referral, or you can often schedule directly if you know your symptoms are related to your ears, nose, or throat.
When to see an ENT
Not every sore throat or stuffy nose needs a specialist. But if symptoms keep coming back or don’t improve with routine care, an ENT can help identify the underlying cause and create a long-term solution.
Here are some common reasons to schedule an appointment with an ENT:
Chronic or recurrent conditions
If you’re dealing with any of the following concerns, an ENT specialist can help you find answers and solutions.
- Ongoing allergies or sinus infections that clear up temporarily but always return
- Ear infections that cause hearing loss or ringing (tinnitus)
- Persistent congestion or nasal blockage from polyps or a deviated septum
- Frequent sore throats, hoarseness, or laryngitis that never fully resolve
- Vertigo or balance problems that affect your stability
- Frequent nosebleeds or sinus pressure that doesn’t improve with medication
Specific or serious concerns
In addition to recurring conditions, an ENT specialist can help diagnose and treat concerns including:
- Sleep apnea, loud snoring, or other breathing problems at night
- Neck or throat lumps or swelling that need evaluation for possible cancer
- Trouble swallowing or chronic reflux symptoms
- Voice or vocal cord changes that last more than two weeks
- Sudden hearing loss or ear trauma such as a perforated eardrum
- Loss of smell that persists after illness
In general, any ear, nose, or throat symptom that lasts longer than two weeks, worsens, or interferes with your daily life is reason to see an ENT.
Why seeing a specialist matters
While your primary care doctor can treat many mild conditions, ENTs have the advanced tools and expertise to:
- Pinpoint the exact cause of your symptoms with specialized testing and imaging
- Provide targeted treatment, including minimally invasive procedures or surgery when needed
- Prevent complications from recurring infections or untreated conditions
- Deliver faster, lasting relief through personalized care plans
In offering very specialized care, an ENT can effectively address your issues and help you feel better more quickly.
Take the next step toward relief
If you’ve been dealing with ear, nose, or throat symptoms that won’t go away — or if you’re unsure whether it’s time to see a specialist — contact an ENT specialist in your area to schedule an evaluation.
When it comes to your ear, nose and throat health, seeing the right specialist makes all the difference.