When to See an ENT in Tunbridge Wells
Most of us don’t think about our ears, nose or throat until there is pain in the ear, a blocked nose with no sign of clearing soon, or have a sore throat for weeks. Until these issues get really bad, we never think about seeing an ENT specialist. This post will inform you whether your symptoms are worth getting checked by an ENT specialist in Tunbridge Wells.
What an ENT specialist does
ENT surgeons treat conditions affecting the nose, ear, throat and related structures in the neck and head. Chronic sinusitis, hearing loss, tonsil problems, balance issues, voice changes, neck lumps, and nasal blockages are all issues that fall within the scope of an ENT in Tunbridge Wells. While some conditions are straightforward, others take time to diagnose properly. An ENT will have the right tools and training to treat your condition that your general practitioner may not be equipped with.
Signs you should see an ENT immediately
Sometimes the symptoms clear up on their own. However, some conditions look minor early on and get only worse and harder to treat if they are left alone.
- Hearing loss on one side, or hearing that has gradually worsened over months
- Ringing in the ears, also called tinnitus, doesn’t go away.
- A blocked or runny nose that has lasted more than 12 weeks
- Recurring sinus infections that keep coming back after antibiotics
- A sore throat or hoarse voice lasting more than three weeks
- A lump in the neck, throat, or around the ear
- Dizziness or balance problems that feel new or are getting worse
- Ear pain or discharge that doesn’t improve with treatment
A combination of these symptoms, or symptoms that persist, definitely need an ENT appointment.
What about children?
Children also get ENT referrals more often than you’d think. Recurrent ear infections, glue ear, snoring, difficulty swallowing, and enlarged tonsils are common in younger children and can affect their sleep, speech development, and school performance more than parents realise.
Getting a referral
In most cases, you’ll need a GP referral to see an ENT specialist on the NHS. Your GP will assess your symptoms and decide whether a referral is appropriate. Once at the ENT, you will need to inform them about:
- When your symptoms started
- How often do they occur
- Whether anything makes them better or worse
- Any medications you’re currently taking
That information makes the consultation more useful for everyone.
What happens at the appointment
The ENT surgeon will consider your history, examine the relevant areas, and may carry out a quick in-clinic procedure in some cases. They may take a look inside the ear with an otoscope, or conduct a nasal examination with a small camera called a nasal endoscope. This takes only a few minutes. It’s not painful, though some people find the nasal scope a little uncomfortable briefly. You’ll leave with a clearer picture of what’s going on and a plan for what comes next.
Wrappin Up
Waiting rarely makes ENT conditions better. If something has been bothering you for weeks, that’s reason enough to get it looked at.
Sri Mahalingam is an award-winning Consultant Ear, Nose & Throat Surgeon based in London & Kent. He runs clinics in Central London (Harley Street), Orpington, Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells & Maidstone. Weekend and evening clinics are also offered for the convenience of patients. Please get in touch if you have any queries.
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