Almost everyone will have ear, nose, and throat problems at various times throughout their lifetime. Most of these issues are fairly mild and respond well to over-the-counter medication, but other conditions warrant a professional medical evaluation.
Let’s talk about three of the most common reasons why people see an ear, nose, and throat doctor (ENT), and where you can go here in the Austin area to see an outstanding otolaryngologist who will give you prompt and effective treatment.
#1: Ear Infection
Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear, and it is the most common type of infection in young children. The primary cause of this ear issue is a buildup of germs in your eustachian tubes, which run from your middle ear to the back of your throat for the purposes of drainage and pressure regulation.
If the germs are not naturally drained, then these tubes will become clogged – and an infection develops which can be accompanied by a feeling of pressure in the ear.
An ear infection may also be due to having the flu, allergy, or cold, as these ailments can cause congestion and swelling in your nasal passages and eustachian tubes. Some of the main signs and symptoms of an ear infection include:
- Pain in the inner ear
- A feeling of pressure
- Fluid discharge
- Loss of balance
- Difficulties in hearing
- Nausea or vomiting
#2: Sinusitis
Sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinus passages, which are the open areas located inside your cheeks next to your nose, behind your nose, and above your nose in your lower forehead. The purpose of the sinuses is to excrete moisturizing mucus into your nose, thereby ensuring that the nose doesn’t dry out.
The sinus cavities become swollen when they are inflamed. Acute sinusitis is usually caused by a viral infection from the common cold. Chronic sinusitis is usually caused by the development of nasal polyps (internal growths) or a deviated septum (which divides the two sides of your nose).
Some of the signs and symptoms of chronic sinusitis include the following:
- Nasal inflammation
- Nasal discharge
- Nasal congestion
- Pain and swelling in the cheeks next to your nose
- Headache
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Coughing
#3: Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a potentially serious disorder in which a person will repeatedly stop and start breathing during the night, and this intermittent breathing is usually accompanied by loud snoring. Most people who have sleep apnea do not know that they snore or that they have pauses in their breathing during sleep until someone tells them about it, such as a family member or roommate.
The following symptoms can indicate that you may be suffering from sleep apnea:
- Frequently waking up in the middle of the night
- Feeling tired or unrefreshed after a full night’s sleep
- Drowsiness during the day
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Having a dry, sore throat upon waking
- Morning headaches
Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist in Austin, TX
Here at Capital ENT & Sinus Center, your ENT will evaluate your health issue and offer a solution that works for you. Whether you have congestion, pain, aches, drainage, allergies, or anything else affecting your ears, nose, or throat, we are here for you.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced otolaryngologists, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (512) 339-4040 or by filling out our appointment request form online now. We have convenient locations in Austin, Lakeway, Marble Falls, and Dripping Springs and we look forward to serving you!