Otolaryngologist

Also known as otorhinolaryngolongists or ENT specialists, otolaryngolongists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating disorders of the ear, nose and throat. After completing medical school, a one year residency in general surgery is compulsory further followed by four years of residency in otolaryngology. Being specialists in the ENT organs, otolaryngolongists perform the following functions:

• Primarily treat disorders related to ear, nose, and throat.
  
• Treat conditions like sinus and problems with nasal cavities by either prescribing medicines or performing surgery.
  
• They treat allergies and help improve the shape and look of the nose (rhinoplasty).
  
• They treat hearing problems, ear infections, balance disorders of the ears, tinnitus (ear noise), cranial nerve disorder etc.
  
• They treat conditions like sleep apnea.
  
• They cure tonsils either through medication or surgery, they treat throat disorders including voice and swallowing disorders.

Modern techniques used in the field of otolaryngology

ENT field has seen a lot of innovations in use of equipment and technology, modern methods have paved avenues for better treatment methods.

• Modern equipment have paved ways for these specialists to perform reconstructive surgeries for nose, jaw, ear and facial areas.
  
• RAST (radio-allergosorbent-test) is used for curing allergies.
  
• Technique called the skin endpoint titration is used to cure allergies.
  
• Endoscope technique is used to treat sinus and other blockages.
  
• Modern audio logic equipment is used to diagnose and treat hearing problems.

Guide to choose the right otolaryngologist

• Ask your family physician to refer to the right specialist.
  
• Check if the specialist you have chosen is certified by an authorized board.
  
• Check if the hospital where your specialist practices has the required infrastructure and modern equipment needed for your treatment.
  

Tinnitus

Tinnitus is derived from Latin word 'to ring and medically means 'ringing in the ears'. One out of every five people in the world is affected by this condition and nearly 33% of senior people living throughout the world suffer from tinnitus.

Continuous exposure to loud and deafening noise can lead to tinnitus. At times a small plug of wax in the ear canal can lead to temporary tinnitus. Otosclerosis, stiffening of bones in the middle ear can also cause tinnitus. Tumor in the middle ear is another cause for tinnitus. Those suffering high or low blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disorders or injury to head or neck might notice symptoms of tinnitus.

Tinnitus symptoms

A person suffering this disorder is likely to hear noises that others cant. This noise is most often of buzzing or ringing nature. Other tinnitus symptoms include ear pain and headache. Dizziness and hearing loss might result. Consult an otolaryngologist who can determine the right type of treatment for the condition.

Improve your circulation with daily exercise. Reduce excessive salt in the diet. Keep away from tobacco, tea, cola, coffee and other stimulants. Keep your blood pressure under check. Stay away from loud noises and sounds.

Tinnitus remedy

Concentration and relaxation exercise can help gain control over the muscles and blood circulation in the body. Hearing aids help reduce the head noise and aid in hearing too. Set the right volume to prevent worsening the condition.