Otolaryngology – The Branch of Medicine Dealing With the Ears, Nose, and Throat
Otolaryngology is the branch of medicine dealing with the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. Doctors who specialize in this specialty are called otolaryngologists, and they often treat children, as well as adults. They may also do cosmetic plastic surgery of the face and neck. Some otolaryngologists specialize in different areas of the head and neck, but all are trained to diagnose disorders of the ears, nose, and throat.
In the 19th century, doctors figured out that the nose and throat were closely connected by a system of tubes and passages. They also developed special tools to take a closer look at these parts of the body. Based on this research, a new medical specialty was born: otolaryngology. These doctors are often referred to as ear, nose and throat doctors, or ENTs for short.
Otolaryngologists are trained to treat a variety of problems, including ear infections, nose bleeds, and infected mastoids. They can also correct deviated septums, which are common nasal conditions that can cause breathing difficulties and nose snoring. They perform surgeries to remove enlarged tonsils, called adenoidectomies, and to insert or replace a damaged eardrum (tympanoplasty).
In addition to the routine tasks of treating patients, otolaryngologists are also trained to identify and biopsy abnormal growths on the head and neck. These include both benign tumors and cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma of the throat and larynx and opharyngeal carcinoma of the neck.부산코골이
Other diagnostic procedures that otolaryngologists commonly perform include sinus endoscopy, an in-office procedure in which the doctor uses a thin tube with a camera to visualize the nasal and sinus passages. They can also use computed tomography, or CT, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.
Allergy testing is another common office procedure that otolaryngologists perform. While not all otolaryngologists provide allergy testing or immunotherapy, those that do will usually administer a series of shots that contain small amounts of allergens to determine if you have allergies such as pet dander, mold, and pollen.부산이비인후과
Otolaryngologists can also assist with balance issues, such as vertigo, by performing tests and providing treatment. This can involve removing ear wax blockages, prescribing hearing aids, or referring you to vestibular therapists. They can also help with speech and communication disorders, such as stuttering and voice impairment.