Common Questions About Ear, Nose and Throat Care
Below are some frequently asked questions and answers about otolaryngology, the field of ear, nose and throat (ENT) care.
What are some of the disorders and diseases that ear, nose and throat doctors treat?
Treating nasal cavity and sinus issues is one of the primary skills of ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctors, also known as otolaryngologists. We also treat diseases of the throat, larynx — more commonly known as the voice box — and the upper esophagus, including voice and swallowing disorders. These issues can affect speaking, singing, eating and the sense of smell.
The head and neck also house functions associated with sight and the cosmetic appearance of the face, so ENTs are trained to treat:
- Infections
- Noncancerous and cancerous tumors
- Facial trauma
- Deformities of the face
We perform both cosmetic plastic and reconstructive surgery.
How common are these disorders/diseases?
Very common. They are probably ranked among one of the top illnesses that people have to face. For example About 35 million people develop chronic sinusitis each year, making it one of the most common health complaints.
What is chronic sinusitis and how is it treated?
Chronic sinusitis is sinus inflammation that lasts more than three months. It can interfere with mucus drainage and make breathing through the nose difficult. It also leads to swelling, pain and tenderness around the eyes and face. Causes include infections, allergies, structural issues, and growths in the sinuses called nasal polyps or a deviated nasal septum. In some rare cases, the infection can spread into the brain and be fatal. It’s not helped with medication, so surgery is required to allow for adequate ventilation of the sinuses.
When should someone see an ENT?
Your general practitioner should be able to take care of minor conditions that last less than 3 weeks. But an issue lasting longer than that is a sign of a possible chronic condition, which should then be treated by an ENT. Also, see an ENT as soon as possible if you experience symptoms of sinus problem that affect your vision or make you feel exceptionally lethargic, as this may be a sign that your brain is being affected.
Why is it important to have a trained specialist operating on these parts of the head in particular?
Surgeries performed by an ENT are very delicate. Locations that are operated on are usually in close proximity to the brain and in areas that control your senses. Mistakes in these surgeries can be devastating to a person’s quality and quantity of life. It is important to choose the right physician. A good starting point is to look for someone who is board certified and fellowship trained in the specialty. Also, the more a physician performs a particular surgery, the outcomes greatly improve. Data also suggest that hospitals, like Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center that do high volumes of these otolaryngology surgeries, get better results.
What is the Thyroid, Head and Neck Cancer Institute at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center?
The Thyroid, Head and Neck Cancer Institute provides a multidisciplinary collaborative approach to care. We hold bi-weekly meetings to review and discuss the treatment plans for our thyroid, head and neck cancer patients. These meetings, representing a multitude of specialties, will provide a therapeutic regimen tailored to our patient's individualized needs. Depending on the patient's condition, we are able to make the best choices for the patient. We have the experience and technology right here in New Jersey, which our patients find convenient and are very happy with the results.
Why is collaboration between Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and Rutgers Cancer Institute so important for advancing care?
With cancer treatment, it is vital to have a multidisciplinary approach. Your doctors need all the different pieces of the puzzle to make the best decisions. And they need to be aware of what’s happening with the latest research to provide patients with the best care. Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center has always provided extraordinary clinical care. Through our partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute, we can bring the latest research and clinical trials directly to our patients and deliver the best possible treatment available.