5 Signs It’s Time to See an ENT (and Not Just Your Primary Doctor)
Depending on their severity, persistent ENT issues like chronic nasal congestion, breathing difficulties, severe sinus pain and pressure, and hearing difficulties may interfere with your daily life, productivity, sleep, and comfort.
If you’ve ever dealt with any such issues, then you should consider taking a more proactive approach to your health and seek professional medical help when your body tells you to.
5 Signs It’s Time to See an ENT in Pensacola, FL
Here are five signs to look out for that may tell you that you should see an ENT specialist in Pensacola, FL:
Sign #1: Chronic or persistent ENT issues
Your primary care provider (PCP) or primary doctor is equipped to address mild or acute ENT-related issues. However, severe, complex, chronic, or persistent issues may warrant a visit to an ENT specialist. A consultation with your primary care provider can help determine if seeing a specialist is appropriate for your condition.
- Chronic sinusitis
Sinusitis is characterized by the irritation, swelling, and inflammation of the tissues lining the sinuses, which are the hollow, air-filled spaces located behind the nose, cheeks, and forehead. The sinuses are responsible for humidifying the air that we breathe by naturally producing mucus. However, sometimes, they become irritated and swollen due to several factors, including allergies, bacterial infections, or viral infections.
Nasal polyps–excess tissue growth along the lining of the sinuses–are also a common, yet often overlooked, cause for chronic or frequent sinus infections. They can cause a blockage, prevent drainage, and create an ideal environment for infections.
- Recurring ear infections
Ear infections are a more common occurrence in children aged six months to two years old. They become more susceptible due to the size and shape of their middle ears and eustachian tubes.
If left untreated in children, they may potentially lead to hearing, speech, or balance issues. An ENT specialist can help evaluate risks.
While more common in children, adults can still develop ear infections. In rare cases, untreated or chronic ear infections in adults may be associated with a more serious underlying condition. A consultation with an ENT specialist may help evaluate potential causes and guide you toward appropriate next steps.
- Persistent sore or scratchy throat
A sore and scratchy throat is common and, in most cases, goes away on its own with proper rest. However, a persistent sore throat or voice hoarseness that doesn’t get better with time and rest can indicate an underlying and more serious throat issue. An ENT specialist is trained to examine your throat and vocal cords to evaluate for potential contributing factors.
- Severe sinus pain and pressure
Sinus pain and pressure, particularly around the nose, eyes, cheeks, and forehead, are often associated with sinus issues, like sinusitis or allergies. However, if they don’t go away despite treatment, your primary doctor may refer you to a specialist for further testing and evaluation to see what might be causing this.
- Frequent nosebleeds
Nosebleeds are common, especially in dry and cold climates. They are often a short-term problem. However, frequent and unexplained nosebleeds may sometimes indicate a more serious underlying issue, such as a bleeding disorder. A consultation with an ENT specialist can determine the cause and guide you toward a personalized management or treatment plan.
Sign #2: Hearing disorders
Some common signs of early hearing loss may include asking people to repeat themselves more because you didn’t hear them the first time, or setting the volume of your phone or TV higher than usual. Many factors might cause this, including an ear infection, earwax buildup, or a ruptured eardrum. An ENT can assess your symptoms and, if necessary, recommend further hearing tests or specialist referrals.
Tinnitus is also a concern that might warrant an ENT visit. It is characterized by a constant ringing in the ears without a clear external source.
Sign #3: Severe snoring or a possible case of sleep apnea
Occasional and mild snoring is normal and typically harmless. However, the issue comes when snoring becomes severe and excessive. At this point, it may signal a more serious sleeping disorder called sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea is characterized by a cycle of breathing pauses during sleep, due to an obstruction in the airways. This breathing pause may reduce oxygen levels. The brain then sends a signal to jolt the person awake, usually gasping for air. This repeated cycle disrupts sleep and has been linked in medical literature to increased risk of certain conditions, such as high blood pressure.
An ENT specialist can help determine if your condition will need further testing, like a sleep study.
Sign #4: Dizziness, vertigo, or balance issues
Dizziness is a common, yet short-term, issue for many people. Usually due to a sudden change in position or movement of the head, or by standing up too quickly. However, persistent cases of dizziness and balance issues may be due to inner ear disorders.
These persistent issues with dizziness and balance may be associated with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or another complex vestibular disorder. An ENT specialist can perform tests to determine the root cause and develop a personalized treatment plan, or refer you to other specialists if needed.
Sign #5: Enlarged lymph nodes or lumps, bumps, or masses in the head or neck
Lymph nodes, which help the body fight off infections, are largely present in the head and neck. Sometimes, they can become swollen. Lumps, bumps, or masses can also appear in the head or neck. When these seem to grow larger or last for more than two weeks, a consultation with a specialist may be necessary.
Disclaimer: Not all symptoms listed above will require specialist care. Consult with your primary care provider to help determine if a specialist consultation is appropriate for your condition.
Frequently Asked ENT Questions in Pensacola
What is an ENT?
An ENT, also known as an otolaryngologist, is a healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions of the ears, nose, and throat. ENT doctors may choose to pursue further specialized training and include subspecialty concerns of the head, neck, mouth, and facial structures into their practice.
What is the difference between an ENT and a primary care provider?
A primary care provider (PCP) or primary doctor is equipped to treat mild and acute ENT-related concerns. However, more complex and chronic ENT issues may warrant the expertise of an ENT specialist. A consultation with your primary doctor can help determine if you should see a specialist for your condition.
Choosing the Right Pensacola ENT Specialist Near Me
Gulf Coast Breathe Free is an ENT care provider serving the residents of the Pensacola area and the surrounding communities. If you wish to learn more about our clinic, services, and specialties, visit and explore our website.