So, you have an earache, a sore throat, and a headache. Where do you go? Chances are, your primary care doctor will refer you to a physician that specializes in otolaryngology.
Otolaryngology is one of the oldest medical specialties (practiced since the 19th century) that involves the diagnosis and treatment of patients with diseases and conditions of the ears, nose, throat, head, and neck. Physicians trained in otolaryngology are called by many names. They include:
- Otolaryngologists
- Ear, nose, and throat doctors
- ENTs
In other words, there is no difference between an otolaryngologist and ENT. They are one and the same, with the latter being the shorthand version that’s much easier to recall and pronounce. Another example is the gastroenterologist, commonly known as the GI.
Otolaryngology
Doctors in the 19th century found that the head and neck have interconnected systems. They developed tools they could use to examine the systems, in an effort to diagnose and treat problems that affect the head and neck, which eventually formed the medical specialty known as otolaryngology. Otolaryngologists are not just trained in medical treatment but also surgical procedures related to the head and neck.
An otolaryngologist can have various specializations such as otology/neurotology, pediatric otolaryngology, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, laryngology, rhinology, and head and neck diseases. An otolaryngologist typically does not need to refer you to a specialist should diagnostic results show that you have a condition that needs surgery. Otolaryngologists can typically provide you both medical and surgical care.
What Do Otolaryngologists Or ENT Doctors Treat?
ENT doctors can treat conditions that affect the head and neck systems. That includes ear problems like pain, itchiness, burning, leaking, swimmers’ ear, infection, hearing loss, sudden deafness, and tinnitus. Any issues that affect the nose such as allergies, sinusitis, and any other obstruction that can affect breathing and sense of smell are also treated by ENTs.
Throat issues such as difficulty swallowing, pain, tonsillitis, voice changes, diseases of the larynx, and mouth and throat cancer are also diagnosed and treated by ENTs. Head and neck pain could be a sign of infection, cranial nerve disorder, or tumor (benign or malignant). ENT doctors can also address facial trauma and deformities as a result of growth abnormalities. Congenital malformations and cancers that affect the ears, neck, and threat can also be addressed by ENTs.
Top Otolaryngologists/ENT Specialists in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL
If you are experiencing issues with your ears, nose, throat, neck, and head, the Otolaryngologists or ENT Specialists at Intercoastal Medical Group are ready to help.
Our compassionate ENT doctors provide the highest level of care to our patients suffering from health issues. We understand how ear, nose, and throat issues affect your quality of life, which is why we use our expertise and experience to help you find relief.
Additionally, To maintain optimum overall health and well-being, hearing tests should be performed annually by an audiologist. You can visit our hearing center and Dr. Renee Collins today. Dr. Collins is a certified audiologist that can detect and treat a number of conditions including hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo. She takes appointments at both the Cattleridge and Lakewood Ranch II offices.
For your convenience, we have two locations – our Catteridge location in Sarasota, Florida and our Lakewood Ranch II location in Bradenton, Florida.
To schedule an appointment with our more than 100 highly credentialed physicians, call us at (941) 379-1800 for Cattleridge or 941-538-0018 for Lakewood Ranch II. Our friendly staff is happy to assist!
