About 15% of adults ages 18 and older have some form of trouble hearing, and one in four people in the United States 65 and older struggle with disabling hearing loss. Fortunately, ENT (ear nose and throat) doctors are trained to diagnose and treat various problems involving your sinuses, nasal cavities, ear canals, and more. However, understanding which symptoms indicate potential issues is the key to receiving prompt treatment. Here are just a few symptoms that indicate that you should see an ENT doctor as soon as possible.
Sore Throat
It’s one thing to experience a sore throat in tandem with other various symptoms of a common cold, like congestion or a runny nose, but to experience an ongoing sore throat for an extended period of time may indicate a deeper and more serious underlying issue that requires immediate attention. With this in mind, if you’ve taken a full dose of antibiotics and continue to experience a sore throat, it’s best to see an ENT in Plano as soon as possible.
Hearing Loss
As mentioned, hearing loss is more common than many people think. If you experience hearing loss in one or both ears, there may be something wrong with your eardrum and/or ear canal. Or, it could be a more serious issue that’s related to the bones surrounding your eardrum. The most common culprit of hearing loss is a buildup of fluid or ear wax within the ear, and solving this issue usually requires the help of an ENT, who may prescribe antibiotics or use a special device to clean out your ears.
Headaches
Finally, ongoing headaches are often caused by an underlying issue within the sinuses, but many patients fail to realize that headaches can also be caused by certain respiratory issues. Sometimes, chronic sinusitis or anatomic abnormalities can also play a role. If you’re experiencing ongoing headaches or migraines, see an ENT in Plano immediately.
Ultimately, understanding the signs and symptoms that indicate that it’s time to see an ENT is the key to maintaining positive respiratory and sinus health. For more information about the signs and symptoms associated with ear, nose, and throat issues, contact Ear Nose and Throat Associates of Texas PA.
