How Are ENT Disorders Diagnosed?

Posted on by Ear, Nose & Throat Associates

Otolaryngologists, more commonly known as ENT physicians, are experts in diagnosing and treating ear, nose and throat disorders. Below we review some of the questions your ENT physician may ask you to diagnose your symptoms and how some common ENT disorders are diagnosed.

What Questions Will an ENT Physician Ask?

Experienced Middle Aged Family Doctor Showing Analysis Results on Tablet Computer to Male Patient During Consultation in a Health Clinic. Physician Sitting Behind a Desk in Hospital Office.

Some questions you can expect to answer include:

  • What are your symptoms?
  • When did your symptoms start?
  • What seems to trigger your symptoms?
  • Have you had a fever?
  • Have you been taking any medications or supplements?
  • Are you allergic to any medications?
  • Do you have a medical history of any ENT disorders?
  • Do you have a family history of any ENT disorders? 
  • Do you have any other medical conditions?

Diagnosing Ear Infections

Ear infections can occur in the outer ear, which is known as swimmer’s ear, or in the middle ear, which is known as otitis media. To diagnose swimmer’s ear, your doctor will perform a physical exam of the ear canal and obtain a fluid sample for culture. To diagnose otitis media, they will use an otoscope to examine the ear and ask you about your symptoms.

Diagnosing Sinus Infections

If your ENT physician suspects you have a sinus infection, they may use an endoscope, which is a device that goes up the nose, to visualize the opening of the sinus cavity and take a direct sinus culture. If this is inconclusive, they may order an x-ray or CT scan.

Diagnosing Strep Throat

According to an article published by the National Library of Medicine, strep throat (caused by the bacteria Group A Streptococcus) accounts for 5-15% of adult sore throats and 20-30% of pediatric sore throats. It is diagnosed with a throat culture using a cotton swab. If positive, you’ll take antibiotics you can pick up from 3 Rivers Pharmacy.

Diagnosing Sleep Apnea

To diagnose sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder, your doctor will first ask you about your symptoms, which may include snoring loudly, pauses in breathing during sleep, frequent awakenings, daytime drowsiness and mood problems. Then they will perform a physical exam of the tissues in the mouth and throat. They may order a sleep study to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the severity. This can be conducted in a sleep clinic or at home.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Ear, Nose & Throat Associates today.