Even though it is not required for you to see an ENT specialist every time you have an issue with your ear, nose, or throat, there are certain times availing of specialist care might be necessary. Often, your family doctor will be able to solve your issues related to the ear, nose, or throat. However, how would you know when is the right time to see your ENT specialist?

When Should You See an ENT Specialist?

Here is a list of situations and conditions when you should consider visiting an ENT specialist instead of a general practitioner:

Tonsillitis: 

If you are suffering from repeated tonsillitis and the medicine prescribed by your general practitioner does not work anymore, visit an ENT specialist. If you have difficulty swallowing along with a bad fever with other issues, an ENT specialist might be able to help you with it.

Sinusitis: 

If you have been experiencing a sinus problem for more than 12 weeks, there is a high chance that your primary care doctor will refer you to an ENT specialist. If your sinus problems keep coming back after every two or three months, that is a sign for you to visit an ENT specialist too. 

Recurring ear infections: 

One of the most common reasons many people visit an ENT specialist is their recurring ear infection. If you have a ringing in your ear, constant ear pain, or recurring ear infections, it can be a symptom of a growing tumor in your throat, and a visit to ENT could save your life. 

Some other reasons you could need a visit to an ENT specialist are chronic nasal congestion, hearing loss, vertigo, dizziness, losing voice, hearing or sense of smell, growths or deformities affecting the head and neck, etc. Your ENT specialist will then either prescribe you other medicine or refer you to other specialists if required.