Otolaryngology, more commonly known as ENT, is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders and conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, head, and neck. Physicians who specialize in otolaryngology are called otolaryngologists or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctors.

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The scope of otolaryngology encompasses a broad range of conditions, including:

1. Ear Disorders:

   • Hearing loss

   • Ear infections

   • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

   • Balance disorders

2. Nasal and Sinus Conditions:

   • Sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses)

   • Nasal polyps

   • Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)

   • Deviated septum

3. Throat Disorders:

   • Tonsillitis

   • Laryngitis (inflammation of the voice box)

   • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affecting the throat

4. Head and Neck Conditions:

   • Head and neck cancers

   • Facial trauma

   • Salivary gland disorders

   • Thyroid disorders

 

Otolaryngologists are trained to provide both medical and surgical interventions for these conditions. They may perform surgery ranging from routine procedures like tonsillectomy and ear tube placements, to more complex surgery for head and neck cancers or reconstructive procedures.

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In addition to surgical expertise, otolaryngologists often address non-surgical aspects of care, such as prescribing medications, providing rehabilitation for hearing and balance issues, and offering guidance on lifestyle modifications for managing chronic conditions relating to the ears, nose, throat, head and neck.

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Patients may be referred to an otolaryngologist by their primary care physician or other specialists when there are concerns related to the ear, nose, throat, or related structures. 

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