It’s true, a lot of people are unaware of what an ENT specialist does as it’s not very mainstream. However, you’d be surprised to know that their roles are very 360 and help with a lot of your common functionality. With that being said, here at Jonathan Hughes we have compiled a list of what an ENT specialist can do for you in London.
What do ENT doctors treat?
ENT surgeons can treat people of all ages from new born babies to elderly people. They see more children than any other surgeon, apart from paediatric surgeons. Ent surgeons often treat conditions that affect your senses such as hearing and balance disorders or smell and taste functionalities. They also treat patients with conditions that affect their voice, breathing and swallowing as well as those with head and neck tumours. As you can see, an ENT specialist has a huge role in your wellbeing.
Ear infections
Ear infections are so incredibly common. They occur when bacteria become trapped inside the inner ear. Your ear has a tiny tube called the Eustachian tube that originates in the ear and drains into the back of the throat which helps to keep unwanted bacteria out of the ear. If this tube becomes clogged by fluid or mucus, harmful bacteria may be able to enter the ear and cause an infection. Pain and pressure in the ear, fever, loss of balance, difficulty hearing, fluid discharge, and nausea and common symptoms of an ear infection, so you should definitely seek an ear doctor in London should you experience any of these symptoms.
What is Laryngopharyngeal reflux?
When you first identify an issue with your throat there are various possible symptoms that may be at hand. Laryngopharyngeal reflux (silent reflux) is caused at either end of your oesophagus where a ring of muscle called sphincter. However, when these muscles don’t operate properly this causes the birth of LPR where stomach acid reaches your throat, voice box or nasal airway. This is also called GERD with all the symptoms being either identical or similar.
Obstructive sleep apnoea
Obstructive sleep apnoea is one of the most prevalent snoring problems in the UK that can be treated in London. There are two different variances of obstructive sleep apnoea:
- Apnoea: where the muscles and soft tissues in the throat relax and collapse sufficiently to cause a total blockage of the airway; it’s called an apnoea when the airflow is blocked for 10 seconds or more
- Hypopnea: a partial blockage of the airway that results in an airflow reduction of greater than 50% for 10 seconds or more
Snoring treatments
There are a number of London snoring treatments that may be suitable for your case. This may involve minor nasal & sinus surgery such as correcting a deviated septum, removing nasal polyps, and addressing tonsil problems.
It’s always advisable to visit an ENT specialist i to determine if there are any of the symptoms above occurring. ENT specialists have extensive knowledge and understanding in this region, and will successfully diagnose the issue. Before suggesting treatments Mr Jonathan Hughes, our ENT specialist in Harley Street, London will conduct a thorough consultation and assessment to ensure your proceeding to the right treatment.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation.