What Does an Otolaryngologist Treat?

Otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors, or ENTs) are physicians who specialize in issues relating to the structures of the head and neck. They can diagnose, treat, and manage a broad range of health conditions and diseases using both nonsurgical and surgical modalities.

An otolaryngologist is also referred to as an otorhinolaryngologist (which literally means ear, nose, and throat specialist), or head and neck surgeon. Let's talk about what an ENT doctor can treat, and where you can go here in Austin and Lakeway for the best treatment and management of your breathing and hearing health.

Health Conditions Otolaryngologists Can Treat

Otolaryngologists treat diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat, larynx (voice box), and sinuses, as well as conditions affecting the head and neck. They regularly treat patients who have issues involving speaking, breathing, swallowing, eating, drinking, and hearing.

Otolaryngologists have extensive knowledge and experience in all areas of otolaryngology, including:

• Rhinology (nose and sinus) surgery
• Sleep medicine (sleep disorders, sleep apnea surgery and treatment, sleep studies)
• Head and neck surgical oncology (surgery to treat cancer of the head and neck)
• Pediatric otolaryngology – related conditions affecting children, such as congenital malformations or the implantation of a cochlear implant for hearing capability
• Neurotology (complex disorders involving hearing and speaking)
• Laryngology (disorders of the larynx, such as voice and swallowing)
• Otology (ear structure, hearing, and balance issues)
• Facial, plastic, and reconstructive surgery, including rhinoplasty ("nose job" surgery)

When Should I Visit an Otolaryngologist?

Common disorders an ENT doctor treats are nasal and sinus issues, including allergies, sinus infections, nasal congestion, and sleep disorders such as snoring and sleep apnea.

Other disorders treated by an otolaryngologist include:

• Chronic (ongoing) or acute (sudden) ear, nose, or throat pain or discharge
• Breathing problems
• Infections of the ear, tonsils, adenoids, or sinuses
• Nosebleeds
• Hoarseness, voice disorder, or difficulties with speaking or swallowing
• Inability to smell or taste
• Balance issues, such as vertigo or dizziness
• Hearing problems, such as tinnitus, water in the ear, or hearing loss
• Growth or tumor in the ear, nose, throat, or facial and neck structure
• Facial/head trauma

What Treatments Are Provided by an ENT Doctor?

Otolaryngologists can prescribe or administer comprehensive head and neck care using a variety of treatments. The type of treatment required can vary depending on the issue, such as:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infection
• Culture-specific antibiotic/antifungal therapy for chronic nasal congestion
• Allergy management (medication, immunotherapy)
• Devices to open blocked airways, especially during sleep
• Audiology/hearing aids
• Speech therapy

Otolaryngologist in Austin and Lakeway, TX

If you are looking for comprehensive nasal, allergy, and sinus care, the board-certified otolaryngologists at Capital ENT & Sinus Center of Austin can help.