Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) are essential parts of the human body. The ability to hear and smell are two of five major senses humans have. Taking care of ENT is simple. It does not require a lot of attention as compared to other organs. However, neglecting ENT can have serious consequences that could alter a person’s lifestyle completely. It is essential to know the common problems that affect ENT and how to go about preventing them.
Ear Infection
An ear infection occurs when germs or bacteria build up in the Eustachian tube in the middle ear. The Eustachian tube has a small passage that connects the back of the throat and the ear. In most cases, the infection only causes slight discomfort. But in acute cases, it may cause bleeding and spread the infection. The Eustachian tubes can become blocked completed either by mucus or fluids. The good news is that it can be treated swiftly.
Guy’s and St Thomas’ Private Healthcare has one of the largest ENT departments in the UK. Patients needing surgery come from all over Europe and around the world to consult with an ENT surgeon from the hospital. Be sure to seek medical attention if any of these symptoms present themselves.
Signs and Symptoms
- Fluid discharge
- Sharp pain
- Temporary loss of balance
- Hearing loss
- Vomiting
- Fever
Causes
- Allergies
- Cold/flu
- Sudden in air pressure such as climbing higher terrains or deep ocean dives
- Sinus infection
Care
- Do not poke around the ears while removing earwax
- Treat colds and flu immediately
- Avoid sudden change in air pressure
- Maintain clean earphones
Sinus Infection
Sinuses are hollow spaces behind the nose and eyes. A sinus infection, much like an ear infection, is as a result of blockage or inflammation caused by germs, mucus, or fluids. Its symptoms are similar to that of a common cold. In severe cases such as structural nose problems, ENT surgeons have to operate to reconstruct the passage.
Signs & Symptoms
- Running/blocked nose
- Fever
- Cough
- Headache
Causes
- Infection
- Structural nose problems (born that way or due to an accident)
- Severe allergies
Care
- Avoid anything that triggers your allergies
- Avoid polluted air
- Get a humidifier in your room
- Wash your hands often
- Avoid touching your face
- Drink plenty of water
Strep Throat
Strep throat is a bacterial infection that affects the back of the throat. In some cases, it affects the tonsils as well. It is easily transferable.
Signs & Symptoms
- Sore throat
- Loss of appetite
- White patches on tonsils
- Fever
- Vomiting
Causes
It is mostly gotten from other infected people through touch, breathing infected air droplets or sharing items. It is highly contagious.
Care
- Wash your hands thoroughly
- Avoid sharing personal items
- Keep your mouth covered when coughing and encourage others to do the same
All the common problems associated with ENT are caused by germs and bacteria. They can be treated by professional ENT specialists such as those at Guy’s and St Thomas’ Private Healthcare. Keeping your hands clean and maintaining a good ENT hygiene is the best way to prevent getting infected.