Ear, Nose & Throat (Otolaryngology)

Otolaryngologists are physicians trained in the medical and surgical management and treatment of patients with diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat (ENT) and related structures of the head and neck. They are commonly referred to as ENT physicians.

Their special skills include diagnosing and managing diseases of the sinuses, larynx (voice box), oral cavity and upper pharynx (mouth and throat) as well as structures of the neck and face. Otolaryngologists diagnose, treat and manage specialty-specific disorders as well as many primary care problems in both children and adults.

Otolaryngology encompasses seven areas of expertise:

• Otology/neurotology: diseases of the ear
• Pediatric otolaryngology: diseases in children with special ENT problems including birth defects in the head and neck and developmental delays
• Head and neck: cancerous and noncancerous tumors in the head and neck, including the thyroid and parathyroid
• Rhinology: disorders of the nose and sinuses
• Larynology: disorders of the throat, including voice and swallowing problems
• Allergy: treatment by medication, immunotherapy (allergy shots) and/or avoidance of pollen, dust, mold, food and other sensitivities that affect the ear, nose and throat